Solgaard Reviews: Are Their Sustainable Travel Products Worth It?
When most people think of health, they picture good food, exercise, and supplements. But health-conscious living goes beyond what we eat. It includes how we travel, what we buy, and how our choices affect the planet. That’s where Solgaard comes in. Known for its eco-friendly luggage and everyday gear, Solgaard has caught the eye of travelers who care about sustainability and wellness. This article explores real Solgaard reviews, product quality, and whether their mission aligns with a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.
What Is Solgaard?
Solgaard is a sustainable travel and lifestyle brand founded in 2016 by Adrian Solgaard. The company started with the Lifepack, a solar-powered backpack that charges devices on the go. Since then, Solgaard has expanded into luggage, travel accessories, and everyday gear made from recycled ocean plastics. Their goal is simple: create durable, stylish products that reduce waste and support a cleaner planet.
According to NOAA, millions of tons of plastic enter the ocean every year. Solgaard claims to help fight this problem by removing plastic waste from coastal communities and turning it into new materials for their bags and suitcases. For health-conscious consumers, this connection between environmental and personal well-being makes their mission worth exploring.
Key Products and Features
Solgaard’s product line focuses on sustainable travel and organization. Here’s a look at their most popular items and how they perform in real-world use.
The Carry-On Closet
This is Solgaard’s flagship suitcase. It features a built-in, collapsible shelving system that lets you pack and unpack in seconds. Many users highlight this design as a game-changer for organization. You can lift the shelves out of the suitcase and hang them up, keeping clothes neatly separated.
The Carry-On Closet is made with recycled polycarbonate shells and aluminum frames. It also includes a TSA-approved lock and 360-degree wheels. Several reviews mention its solid build and how it helps reduce packing stress - a small but real health benefit for frequent travelers.
The Lifepack and Backpacks
The Lifepack was Solgaard’s original success. It includes a solar-powered bank that charges your phone using natural light. For outdoor enthusiasts or digital nomads, this feature supports energy independence and reduces reliance on disposable batteries. The backpack also includes anti-theft locks and hidden pockets for security.
According to U.S. Department of Energy resources, solar charging technology can help reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional power sources. While small in scale, using a solar-powered backpack reflects a sustainable mindset.
The Shore-Tex Material
Solgaard’s proprietary fabric, Shore-Tex, is made from recycled ocean-bound plastic. The company says every product made with Shore-Tex removes up to five pounds of plastic waste from the environment. Independent sustainability reviewers, such as Good On You, often highlight brands using verified recycled materials as leaders in eco-conscious design.
What Customers Say: Solgaard Reviews Summary
Customer reviews across multiple platforms paint a mixed but generally positive picture. Here’s a summary based on verified feedback from Solgaard’s site, Amazon, and independent review pages.
- Build quality: Most users praise the sturdy design and smooth wheels on the luggage. The materials feel premium and scratch-resistant.
- Eco-credibility: Buyers appreciate the brand’s sustainability mission and transparent communication about recycled materials.
- Functionality: The built-in shelving system in the Carry-On Closet earns consistent praise for convenience and organization.
- Price: Some reviewers find Solgaard products expensive compared to traditional luggage. However, many justify the cost through durability and sustainable sourcing.
- Customer service: Reviews vary. Some customers report quick responses and replacements, while others describe delays or limited availability.
How Solgaard Compares to Other Brands
Solgaard sits in a growing field of sustainable gear companies like Paravel and Samsonite’s Eco line. What sets Solgaard apart is its focus on function-driven design. The shelving system, solar charging features, and use of Shore-Tex material make their products stand out.
Still, for health-conscious consumers who value transparency, it’s smart to compare certifications and sourcing details. Look for third-party environmental claims or EPA guidelines on sustainable materials to understand what “recycled” really means in practice.
Environmental Impact and Carbon Footprint
One of Solgaard’s main selling points is its environmental commitment. The brand partners with groups that collect ocean-bound plastic before it reaches the sea. This approach not only reduces pollution but also supports local jobs in coastal regions.
To date, Solgaard reports removing over 100 million plastic bottles from the environment. While these numbers are self-reported, they align with global sustainability efforts encouraged by the United Nations Environment Programme.
Practical Benefits for Health-Conscious Travelers
So how does a luggage brand connect to wellness? For people who travel often for work or leisure, organization and stress reduction play a big role in overall health. High-quality gear that simplifies packing can make travel less exhausting. Solgaard’s Carry-On Closet, for instance, helps keep clothes wrinkle-free and accessible, cutting down on travel fatigue.
Using sustainably made gear also supports mental well-being by aligning actions with values. When you know your purchase helps reduce waste, it adds a sense of purpose to your travel choices. According to research from the American Psychological Association, eco-conscious decisions can enhance psychological well-being and reduce feelings of helplessness related to environmental issues.
Durability and Longevity
Another health-related angle is durability. Cheap luggage tends to break after a few trips, leading to frustration and waste. Solgaard’s products are designed to last years, reducing the cycle of replacement and waste production. This long-term approach mirrors the same mindset as choosing whole foods over processed ones - fewer, better things often lead to a healthier lifestyle overall.
Potential Drawbacks
No brand is perfect, and Solgaard is no exception. A few areas could use improvement:
- Weight: Some users mention that the Carry-On Closet is heavier than standard suitcases because of the built-in shelving.
- Price point: Premium materials and sustainability efforts raise costs, making Solgaard less accessible for budget travelers.
- Limited styles: The focus on function and sustainability sometimes limits color or aesthetic choices.
These drawbacks don’t necessarily outweigh the benefits, but they’re worth considering if you value lightness or price above all else.
Who Should Consider Solgaard?
Solgaard appeals to several types of consumers:
- Frequent travelers who want efficient packing solutions
- Eco-conscious individuals who prefer sustainable brands
- Remote workers or digital nomads looking for functional, tech-friendly gear
- Health-minded consumers who value ethical and durable products
If you’re already investing in clean eating, exercise, and mindful living, choosing sustainable travel gear can extend that same care to how you move through the world.
Tips for Buying Solgaard Products
Before buying, check these simple steps to make the most of your purchase:
- Compare sizes carefully - Solgaard’s Carry-On Closet comes in several versions, depending on airline regulations.
- Check their warranty and return policy on the official site to ensure coverage.
- Read verified Solgaard reviews from multiple sources, not just their website, for balanced feedback.
- Sign up for their newsletter for seasonal discounts or bundles, as prices can be steep.
Final Thoughts
Solgaard has built a strong reputation by blending design, sustainability, and practicality. For travelers who care about personal and environmental health, their products offer real value. They’re not the cheapest option, but they deliver on durability, functionality, and eco-conscious craftsmanship. If your goal is to travel lighter - both physically and environmentally - Solgaard is a brand worth considering.
To learn more about sustainable travel and conscious consumption, explore resources like Green Matters or Treehugger. Making informed choices about what you carry isn’t just about convenience - it’s about living in line with your values and the planet’s well-being.