Business travelers can support sustainability even when packing and traveling for work. From what you pack to luggage type to the trip itself, here are 10 BCD Travel recommendations for smart and sustainable packing.
1. Pick the right luggage
Choose suitcases and bags made from durable, long-lasting materials. Also look for luggage made from recycled materials and for manufacturers offering repairs. The longer your luggage lasts, the less likely it is to end up in the trash or landfill.
2. Skip the plastic wrap
Avoid wrapping your luggage in single-use plastic film. Try a reusable suitcase cover, skin or wrap or a luggage belt to keep items secure and protected.
3. Get organized
Consider a business trolley suitcase with separate compartments for clothes and laptop. This saves time during security checks. Many compartments with zippers can replace additional plastic packaging.
4. Roll vs. fold
Rolling clothes instead of folding them uses less space, and potentially frees you up to travel only with hand luggage. Rolling clothes protects against wrinkles and could reduce the amount of electricity used to iron or steam clothes before wearing.
5. The belt hack
Here’s a simple trick for keeping shirt collars stiff: Roll up your belt and place it in the collar to save ironing and space.
6. The art of shirt stacking
Jackets and shirts are best stacked with the first collar facing down and the one above facing up. Hang lightly creased garments in the bathroom while showering. The damp air and heat should smooth them.
7. Refill and reuse toiletries
Buy refillable bottles and compartments for toiletries and medicines. Pack solid shampoo soaps and shaving soaps; they’re leak proof and produce less packaging waste.
8. Bring your own cups and bottles
Reusable coffee cups and water bottles fit easily in carry-on or checked bags. Buying a beverage at an airport or train kiosk? Ask them to fill your own drink container to avoid unnecessary plastic waste. You may even receive a discount for saving on waste. Refill water bottles once you’re past security to save on the cost and waste of buying single-use bottle. As a bonus, they usually hold more water than a standard plastic bottle, helping you stay hydrated on trips.
9. Say no to paper
Download digital documents on your smartphone or laptop instead of taking paper printouts.
10. Pack light
Lighter suitcase, packages and carry-on bags help reduce carbon emissions. When total loads are lighter, trains, airplanes and rental cars use less energy during transport.
Building a better world is embedded in BCD Travel’s DNA. Find out more about BCD’s approach to sustainability.
