Don’t throw out that broken luggage, fix it!

If you are a frequent traveller, you know how frustrating it can be when your luggage gets damaged during transit. You may be tempted to throw away your broken suitcase and buy a new one, but that can be costly and wasteful. Why not try to fix your luggage yourself and save some money and the environment?

One of the advantages of fixing your luggage is that you can extend its lifespan and avoid contributing to landfill waste. Luggage is made of durable materials that can last for years if properly maintained. By repairing minor damages such as tears, cracks, or broken wheels or handles, you can keep using your luggage for longer and reduce your environmental impact.

Another advantage of fixing your luggage is that you can customize it and make it more unique. You can use different colors, patterns, or stickers to patch up your luggage and give it a personal touch. This way, you can also make your luggage more recognizable and prevent it from getting lost or stolen.

Fixing your luggage can also be fun and rewarding. You can learn new skills and feel a sense of accomplishment when you successfully repair your luggage. You can also share your tips and tricks with other travellers and inspire them to fix their luggage too.

So how do you fix your luggage? Well, it depends on the type and extent of the damage. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• If your luggage has a tear or a hole, you can sew it with a needle and thread or glue it with fabric glue. You can also use a patch to cover the damaged area and make it more secure.
• If your luggage has a crack or a dent, you can use a moldable glue-like putty such as Sugru to fill in the gap and smooth out the surface. Sugru hardens into a hard plastic after 24 hours and can bond to almost any material.
• If your luggage has a broken handle, you can use duct tape or zip ties to reattach it or replace it with a new one. You can also buy a replacement handle that is compatible with most suitcases and easy to install.
• If your luggage has a broken wheel, you can unscrew the wheel and replace it with a new one. You can also buy replacement wheels that are durable, smooth, and suitable for different types of luggage.

Of course, prevention is better than cure. To keep your luggage safe from being broken in the first place, here are some tips:

• Pack lightly and avoid overloading your luggage. This will reduce the stress on the zippers, handles, and wheels.
• Use protective covers or bags to wrap your luggage and shield it from scratches, dirt, or water.
• Check the weight and size limits of your airline and make sure your luggage meets them. This will prevent extra fees or damages caused by mishandling.
• Handle your luggage gently and avoid dragging, dropping, or throwing it.
• Store your luggage properly when not in use. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

In the end, fixing broken luggage not only saves you money, but it reduces waste, lets you customize your luggage, and gives you satisfaction of doing something by yourself.