And who can blame me? I’m usually so jet lagged and exhausted, I face plant onto my bed and konk out, neglecting all my responsibilities for the night.
Then, time would pass as my stuff marinated away inside my luggage, getting all wrinkly and stinky in the process.
Days — heck, weeks would go by! — as I kept promising myself that I’d “do it later.” When in reality, unpacking only takes a couple of hours (taking into account running clothes through the washer and dryer).
Now that I think about it, I’ve had this lazy habit since summer camp. I’d go a whole week without unpacking my stuff… that is, until I heard the term “travel hygiene.”
Now, we’ve all heard of terms like “sleep hygiene” and, of course, “personal hygiene”, but the term “travel hygiene” stopped me in my tracks.
What does travel hygiene mean, exactly? Apparently, it sounds like what it means: cleaning up after yourself and your personal items, after any trip. And beyond washing your clothes and dropping them off at the dry cleaners, this also includes the often neglected cleaning of your suitcase.
When I learned about all the germs — dust, dirt, debris, and millions of bacteria — that can accumulate while your luggage is in transit, I realized the terrible state of my travel hygiene.
I never considered that my bags could be exposed to so many germ-infested areas, be it the conveyor belt at baggage claim or the TSA luggage scanning process or wheeling my honey-colored, carry-on roller over the cobbles of Campo de' Fiori Market in Rome.
So it’s absolutely essential that you clean your suitcase inside and out as soon as you've unpacked your gear.
How do I clean my suitcase after traveling?
Photo by American Green Travel (Unsplash)
You might be scratching your head, wondering how the heck you’re supposed to effectively clean a suitcase in the first place. This depends on several factors, such as the material of the suitcase, but in most cases, you should be fine using soapy water.
Grab a washcloth microfiber washcloth or two and use warm water along with non-detergent soap for the exterior, while using lysol disinfectant wipes for the handle. The handle is the most germ-infested areas — so get scrubbin’!
Then, don’t be afraid to get out your vacuum to clear out all the debris on the inside of your luggage. Just be sure to remove all items.
You can follow this step by scrubbing down the inside, using a microfiber cloth and water — skipping the soap for the interior.
Note: If the exterior is leather, you’re gonna want to use specialized leather cleaners so you don’t damage or abrade it.
Why you need to scrub down your luggage, ASAP
You will be shocked — perhaps even repulsed — by how much dirt, debris, and even insects can infest your bag if you don’t clean it immediately. I-know, I-know. After a long trip, the last thing you want to do is reach for your cleaning supplies. But this is critical to your health and safety.
Plus, it’s no secret that luggage can be ridiculously expensive. To maintain its longevity, treat it with care just as you would with any valuable possession.
What are the best luggage brands out there?
2024 luggage is top notch in terms of technology and durability. Although many people are happy to ship their stuff in any old bag as long as it gets the job done, a quality suitcase is a must-have for your traveling needs. Think of it as an investment.
Are you ready to check out some of the best luggage and suitcase brands of the moment? Let’s dive right in!
Monos
Monos is easily one of my favorite luggage brands out there because it so effortlessly combines sustainability with style. Not only are these suitcases and travel materials marvelously chic, but they’re also environmentally conscious and eco-friendly.
According to their website, Monos is a cruelty-free brand that prioritizes vegan materials and recyclable packaging. The company believes in a “less is more” mentality — that is, they prioritize simple pieces over flashy and trendy designs. That way, your bags remain classy and timeless.
Knowing that my traveling suitcase is as fashionable as it is ethical is why I love traveling. Because who said our luggage can’t be chic, too?
This Canada-based brand offers several sleek collections, including the Carry-on luggage collection, Check-in luggage, Metro Bags, as well as accessories.
Paravel
Paravel is another winning luggage brand that values eco-friendly materials paired with impeccable style. The brand uses recycled materials in 100% of its products.
They have several thoughtful collections, prioritizing different bags and cases for a variety of occasions. They offer suitcases specifically designed for road trips vs extended stays vs. trips to the beach.
Plus, many of their products have personalization features, so you can get your initials stitched into the design. That way, you never have to worry about losing your bags at baggage claim!
Béis
Béis is one of the most popular luggage brands out there, and for good reason. Created by Pretty Little Liars and YouTube star, Shay Mitchell, these fashion-forward suitcases are as smooth and efficient as they are sleek.
You can choose from several beautiful colors — atlas pink, glossy black, beige, navy, lavender, and olive — from either their glossy collection or matte. They even offer a “recycled” collection, which is fully dedicated to using sustainable and recycled materials.
Endorsed as a fan-favorite by celebs like Hailey Beiber and Jessica Alba, you’ll know you’re in good company as you strut through the airport halls.
Samsonite
Voted by Travel + Leisure Magazine as the best luggage company in 2024, Samsonite is another winning brand that you’re gonna want to consider. Not only does Samsonite offer high-quality, durable luggage, but the prices are quite reasonable compared to competitive brands.
There’s such a wide variety of designs, styles, and sizes to choose from, you’ll never run out of options here. I personally love my Samsonite bag in black. I’ve had it for years, and it’s seen me through multiple trips on a bunch of continents. It’s never once let me down.
So, check it out and get back to me. What’s your favorite luggage brand?