What to Do with Old Suitcases

What to Do with Old Suitcases

Suitcases and other travel accessories don't last forever. This guide gives tips to brands and customers on how to manage old luggage.

Many companies, including John Lewis, focus on circularity. They design long-lasting products that consumers can send for repair, use with long-term warranties or recycle. More brands now offer waste recycling and take-back programs. This makes it easier to lower your carbon footprint when you replace your old suitcase.

1. Can It Be Reused?

Before getting rid of your luggage, ask yourself: Can it still be used?

• Donate it – Many charities, shelters, and foster care programs accept used suitcases.
• Fix it – Repairing a handle, zipper, or wheels can extend its life cycle and reduce waste.
• Repurpose it – Get creative and turn old suitcases into a bed for a pet, storage box or even a coffee table.

Many companies are also making it easier to reuse and repurpose old products. For example, Patagonia’s Worn Wear  program repairs and resells used clothing, keeping items in circulation longer.

2. Can It Be Recycled?

Luggage is made from different raw materials, so recycling options vary:

• Hard-shell luggage – Often made from PC, ABS, or PP, these plastics may be recyclable but often need to be separated first.
• Soft-shell luggage – Some brands now use recycled water bottles (rPET) for fabric and some recycling centers accept them.
• Metal parts – Handles, zippers and wheels often contain aluminum or steel, which can be scrapped.
• Smart luggage batteries – Remove and recycle these as e-waste to prevent harmful environmental impacts.

If you’re unsure where to recycle, companies like TerraCycle offer programs to help dispose of hard-to-recycle materials.

3. What If It Can’t Be Recycled?

If your luggage is beyond saving, proper disposal matters:

• Check for waste recycling programs – Brands like John Lewis and IKEA offer take-back programs, ensuring old products don’t end up in landfills​.
• Look for take-back services – Some companies provide a shipping label so you can return luggage for responsible disposal. H&M, for example, collects old clothing from any brand to be reused or recycled.
• Avoid landfills – Most luggage materials take decades to break down and contribute to carbon emissions.

4. How to Choose Better Luggage Next Time

Buy durable luggage – Investing in high-quality luggage means less waste in the long run.

• Choose sustainable materials – Some brands use water bottles to create eco-friendly suitcases.
• Pick brands with recycling programs – Companies like Lululemon and Patagonia run trade-in and resale programs to keep products in use,

5. Examples of Brands with Recycling Programs

1. Samsonite

Samsonite has introduced the "Magnum Eco" collection, crafted from recycled materials. This initiative reflects the brand's commitment to environmental responsibility.

2. Paravel

Paravel is dedicated to sustainability, creating luggage from recycled materials and implementing carbon offsetting programs. They also engage in tree-planting initiatives in collaboration with the Eden Reforestation Projects.

3. Patagonia

Known for its environmental initiatives, Patagonia offers a take-back program where customers can return used products for recycling or repurposing. This program extends to their luggage and travel bags, promoting a circular economy.

4. Solgaard

Solgaard has created sustainable luggage solutions, including carry-on pieces with built-in, removable closets. They utilize recycled aluminum, plastic, and polycarbonate in their products and have removed over 12 million plastic bottles from oceans. Many of their cases feature three-digit locks for security and the capacity to fit a power bank for charging electronics.

5. Horizn Studios

Horizn Studios focuses on sustainability by using eco-friendly materials in their luggage production. They offer products designed for durability and environmental responsibility.

These brands commit to reducing environmental impact with take-back programs, recycling initiatives, and sustainable materials. 

Choosing luggage from these companies contributes to a sustainable future. Brands like John Lewis, IKEA and Patagonia show that circular design is the future of retail. By donating, recycling luggage, or using a take-back program, you’re making a smarter choice for the planet and lowering your carbon footprint.