Are luggage-free trips the future?

08.08.2023 - 15:53 / bbc.com

As summer ramps up in the northern hemisphere, many of us will begin packing suitcases, carry-ons and duffel bags as we prepare to head away on holiday.  

Far too many clothes will be packed, of course, followed by sunglasses and swimwear and sandals, last year's suntan lotion and a good book. A sweater or jacket will probably be thrown in too, just in case. Perhaps, some of us will reassess how much luggage we really need to take. Most will not.  

But with more new ways to reduce your carbon footprint than ever before – and some destinations toying with banning certain types of luggage outright – stuffing your life in a suitcase may soon be a thing of the past. After all, by packing less, we create fewer carbon emissions, reduce our travel footprint and become more protective of nature.  

To highlight how travelling sustainably first starts at home, here are some places that are challenging the long-established idea of packing before you leave – and offering shortcuts to a more streamlined holiday. 

Japan 

In a daring move towards a more sustainable aviation industry, Japan Airlines recently launched a pilot programme giving overseas travellers the option to rent clothes for their stay in the country in advance – thus eliminating the need to lug and load.  

Running until the end of August, the "Any Wear, Anywhere?" stunt has been fashioned so passengers heading to Japan can check-in or carry-on minimal luggage, meaning the airline can better measure the environmental impact of handling less luggage, as well as lower airplane weight. Once travellers arrive in Tokyo, Osaka or Fukuoka, tailored clothes in a range of sizes and styles are delivered to the hotels where visitors are staying. 

However, while the concept helps lighten a traveller's load, not everyone is convinced that it's the right approach.  

"It's both a nice idea, and a masterclass in deflection – a feel-good way to get us to lower our impacts rather than scrutinise theirs," said Justin Francis, co-founder and CEO of UK-based activist holiday company Responsible Travel. "Much like voluntary carbon offsets, it shifts the burden of responsibility away from airlines onto individuals. Personal accountability is important and innovation is great, but we should take care that it doesn't distract us from the real system changes that are needed: robust regulation and fairer taxes on fuel, for instance."

The Alps 

Around the world, skiers are trying to lower their carbon footprints. But while winter sports holidays have long been the domain of excess oversized baggage costs, there is an element of changing perceptions. A new idea is emerging in resorts across France, Switzerland and Austria: leave the gear at home and rent it at the resort.