3 days ago
3 Sustainable Suitcase Brands For Stylish Travelers
Young Asian woman carrying suitcase and holding smartphone on hand, walking in airport terminal.
Recycled luggage used to get a bad rap. Some travelers thought it wouldn't hold up or assumed it lacked style. That's changed. The best sustainable suitcases today are tough, well-designed, and built with smart details you'd expect from top-tier brands. They don't just look good, they outperform the cheap carry-ons stacked in big box stores.
These bags, crafted from materials such as ocean-bound plastic and recycled polycarbonate, are not only environmentally friendly but also visually pleasing. After testing several bags firsthand, these three stood out for their mix of durability, functionality, and design. Even if you don't pack light, they make it easier to travel responsibly.
The genius check-in system designed by Solgaard.
I didn't expect a suitcase to change the way I pack, but Solgaard's Check-In Closet really did. Designed by Adrian Solgaard, the bag is smart, streamlined, and actually useful, not just a sustainability talking point. What makes it stand out is the built-in shelving system. You pack your clothes into little shelves, compress the whole thing with straps, then lift it out and hang it directly in your hotel closet. No unpacking, no piles of clothes everywhere. It's kind of genius.
The outer shell is made from ocean-bound plastic, and the brand makes a clear effort to walk the walk when it comes to eco-credentials. Every purchase helps pull plastic from coastal communities where it's likely to end up in the ocean. And the whole vibe? The bag reminds me of old-school steamer trunks reimagined for modern travelers.
There's also a carry-on version — one with the same clip closure and a 'lite' option with zippers. I found the Check-In size roomy and smooth to roll, even when fully loaded. Just a heads-up: it's easy to overpack, and once it's heavy, it can be a bit difficult to handle. I've also heard from a couple of friends who travel constantly that the wheels can wear down over time, so it might not be the forever bag for hardcore frequent flyers. But for most trips, it's a serious upgrade.
Actor Jon Hamm has been seen with this bag.
Quince, the direct-to-consumer brand started by Sid Gupta, has figured out how to keep prices low without sacrificing design, quality, and responsible manufacturing. I tested their Expandable Carry-On in a deep forest green, made from recycled polycarbonate, and it felt solid — not flimsy or 'budget.' The company's pretty open about its production practices too, which I appreciate. And apparently Jon Hamm travels with one. Not that I base my gear choices on celebrity sightings, but still — it's a detail that caught my eye.
In action, the bag glides easily and feels lighter than it looks. The expandable feature came in handy more than once — I always end up with a few extra items on the return leg (bottles of wine, bags of pasta).
One heads-up: if you consistently stuff it to the brim, the zippers might eventually feel the strain. Guilty. I also liked the removable laundry bag, which makes separating dirty clothes way less annoying.
Almost too pretty to use, Paravel comes in attractive colors and a vegan leather trim.
Founded by Indré Rockefeller and Andy Krantz, Paravel has become the poster child for stylish, environmentally friendly luggage. The Aviator Grand Checked suitcase caught my eye, especially in the bold cherry-red color. The bag is built from recycled polycarbonate, aluminum, and zippers, then trimmed with vegan leather derived from recycled plastic bottles. If you want your bag monogrammed for that extra touch of luxe, they can do that, too.
Paravel offsets carbon emissions through its shipping policy and clearly highlights its sustainability certifications, including Climate Neutral Certification, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, and Global Recycled Standard (GRS), on its site.
This suitcase glided effortlessly through airport terminals, even fully loaded. The sole issue I had was the glossy finish. While attractive, it scuffs easily. In truth, all bags wear down over time, but considering how pretty this bag is, I wish I could have sent it through the airport in a cover to keep it looking polished.
