LifestyleIs plastic wrapping your luggage worth the environmental cost?

Is plastic wrapping your luggage worth the environmental cost?

Wrapping suitcases in plastic sparks controversy
Wrapping suitcases in plastic sparks controversy
Images source: © Getty Images | Jakub Porzycki

12:59 PM EDT, August 19, 2024

More and more travelers are opting to wrap their suitcases in plastic to protect them from damage, getting wet, or theft. However, not everyone is aware that there is an important reason to avoid this habit.

The discussion on this topic began on the platform Quora, where users debated the pros and cons of this solution.

Should you wrap your luggage in plastic?

"Is wrapping your luggage in plastic at the airport a scam, or does it offer any benefits?" one post asked.

Some argue that plastic wrapping provides extra protection for suitcases not only from damage but also from theft. Others point out that a wrapped suitcase might tempt thieves as it suggests that there's something valuable inside. But the disputes don't end there.

Many also point to the environmental harm. Travelers often wrap their suitcases in plastic both before departure and on return, leading to double the use of plastic, which is then thrown away.

Internet users outraged

"You buy sturdy luggage that's supposed to withstand certain stresses, so why wrap it in plastic? It's a waste of plastic that harms the environment. We should take responsibility for our actions and not do this!" one user commented.

Another user also criticized the idea. "Huge amounts of plastic are used, immediately discarded after the trip. Such practices should be illegal," they wrote.

People who want to protect their suitcases should consider buying reusable covers, which is a more environmentally friendly solution.

What is your opinion on the subject? Do you wrap your suitcases?

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