According to ADAA, hoarding is the persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value. Accumulating unused objects can be a form of object hoarding. It is understandable that while we travel our suitcases can also be a part of those memories. However, your suitcase(s) can/will be used for a good cause!
“What if I need them one day?” There is a good rule of thumb: The 3-2-1 Rule: a family of 3 normally takes 2 large suitcases and 1 small suitcase for international travels. While traveling domestically, one small suitcase and a carry-on are generally all that is needed. Of course, there are other factors to consider like children and length of the vacation, but try to remember the ideas of traveling sustainably.
Reducing how much to pack helps the environment. The weight of luggage contributes to the gross weight of the plane and how much fuel it will burn, which affects the amount of CO2 emitted. Smaller luggage is easier to transport. You will feel much lighter while walking around with a small carry-on and small personal item. It is also easier to keep track of the things inside and easier to store in hostels, hotels, and homestays.
Knowing this extra luggage will be helping others and making space in the house are just two reasons to start donating or repurposing your luggage.
Donating: While some are fortunate enough to travel around the world, others may be traveling for other reasons. Foster Care Agencies are moving children and typically use garbage bags to carry their belongings. Similarly, there are Homeless Shelters/Women’s Shelters where people need a place to keep their things. Having a suitcase gives them the opportunity to pack more of their things and helps their transition. Lastly, you can look for non-profit Thrift Stores like Goodwill and The Salvation Army. Looking for these charities, instead of throwing your suitcase away, makes a huge difference for those in need.
Repurpose: Repurposing has the dual benefit of helping to save money while also helping the environment. Making a stool, tabletop, shelf, pet beds, and drawers are just some examples. Here are a few examples from Sheryl Cramer on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/sherylcr/repurpose-suitcase/
What have you done with your extra suitcases? Let us know in the comments!