Japan Airlines (JAL) has launched a clothing rental program, providing an opportunity for travellers flying to Japan to travel light by renting clothes from the airline upon arrival.
The program, called "Any Wear, Anywhere," is a trial initiative introduced by JAL and Sumitomo Corporation, one of Japan's leading trading companies to promote the ‘environmental value’ of using the service.
“With more and more people flying again after the COVID-19 pandemic, and with the recent emphasis on sustainability, there is a growing movement around the world to promote sustainable tourism. Travelers increasingly desire to make more sustainable choices regarding their travel destinations, accommodations, transportation etc., but they still lack sufficient options. For example, most travellers now enjoy eating at restaurants and staying at hotels at their destination, but they generally bring their own clothing from home”, JAL said in a press release, announcing the trial of the service.
As per JAL, the scheme was designed to create an environment where the travellers could get a chance to use “local options for all aspects of their clothing, food, and accommodation, transforming travel and business trips into more sustainable experiences”.
To provide clothing for rental, JAL will source items from excess apparel stock and pre-owned garments, promoting the concept of a circular economy.
The airline said that it would “monitor changes in passengers' checked-in baggage weight and verify the reduction effect of carbon dioxide emissions by reduced airplane weight due to use of the Service”.
Passengers travelling to Japan can book their desired clothing through the "Any Wear, Anywhere" reservation site one month prior to their scheduled visit. The rented clothes must be returned within two weeks from the pickup date.
Visitors can browse the available stock on the reservation page, select the clothing that suits their purpose and the season and can then make the payment by entering their flight booking number, pickup and return dates, and destination for clothing pickup.
By travelling with lighter luggage, passengers can rely on the airline to deliver and pick up the rented clothing directly from their hotels.
The trial program will continue for 14 months, concluding on August 31, 2024. The clothing options available for rental include casual and smart casual attire for both men and women, suitable for all seasons. Prices for the rented clothing start at approximately $28.