We know how awesome it is to see the world and check out different cultures. When we’re thinking about our next trip, we should think about grabbing some cool eco-friendly travel stuff to help us pack a bit lighter on the planet.
Regular sunscreens, deodorants, and bug sprays can have some pretty harsh chemicals. It feels good to use something that’s better for your skin and for the planet at the same time.
Hopefully, this guide will give you some ideas on how to make your next trip a little greener by suggesting some eco-friendly versions of things you’d normally pack.
Our list of eco-friendly and easy to use travel products
1. Thermos flask – reusable Water Bottle & Coffee Cup
Using those throwaway plastic water bottles when you travel is bad for the environment and costs you money. Also, plastic bottles can slowly leak tiny plastic bits into your water, especially if it’s hot. So, if you’re planning to be out and about, a bottle that’s not plastic is a great idea.
There are tons of different reusable water bottles out there, but you might want to go for a stainless steel one. It’s a really eco-friendly choice (better than plastic). Plus, a stainless steel bottle is super tough and can keep your water cold for hours.
Thermoflask Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
If you love your morning coffee, you should think about getting a reusable coffee mug. You might usually grab a coffee to drink in a café when you’re traveling, but if you ever need a coffee to go, a reusable mug can really help the environment. Just ask the coffee shop to pour your coffee into your mug instead of a disposable cup.
2. Strong Backpacks and Earth-Friendly Luggage
Strong, good-quality luggage: A well-made backpack or luggage that lasts for a long time is a sustainable choice.
Sustainable luggage also means fair to the people who made them, and using recycled material.
Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock – apricot white
If you like leather luggage, look for vegan leather items, but be curious about what that vegan leather is made from. Some vegan leather is made from plastics that don’t break down, while others are made from natural things like cork and pineapple leaves.
3. Portable Solar Charger
A portable solar panel is a smart way to charge your gadgets when you’re on the move, and it’s a must-have if you’re going somewhere without easy access to electricity.
Instead of a regular portable charger, a solar-powered one is a really eco-friendly option.
BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank 10,000mAh, 20W Fast Charging with USB C, Dual Flashlight
4. Travel Toiletries
Here’s a tip about personal care: staying clean is way simpler than big companies want you to think. Instead of packing a ton of different products, just take the basics to save space in your bag and create less waste.
You might have seen those reusable silicone travel bottles, but an even better option for the planet is to skip liquids altogether and go for solid products with packaging that’s not plastic.
Solid soap bar: A good soap that’s gentle on your skin is a must-have for travel. Put it in a reusable container to keep feeling fresh no matter where you go.
Dr. Bronner’s – Pure-Castile Bar Soap – Made with Organic Oils, For Face, Body and Hair, Gentle and Moisturizing, Biodegradable, Vegan, Cruelty-free, Non-GMO
Shampoo and conditioner bars: These are vegan and don’t create any waste. They’re made from natural ingredients and they can replace a few plastic bottles, so they’re really great for your travel bag.
Ishga Seaweed Infused Shampoo & Body Bar | Natural & Organic Skincare
Toothpaste tablets: Toothpaste tablets are less messy and a more sustainable, plastic-free way to keep your teeth clean.
SuperBee Dentos Toothpaste Tablets, 150 Tabs, Fluoride Free & Eco Friendly, Travel Mouthwash Tablets, Spearmint
Solid Moisturizer: A good moisturizer can do lots of things. Simple stuff like shea butter or jojoba oil can work as a face moisturizer, body lotion, hair conditioner, and lip balm.
HANNI – Body Moisturizer Stick with Fatty Acids, Travel Size Friendly Solid Lotion, Fragrance-Free and Safe for Sensitive Skin
Biodegradable sunscreen: A sunscreen that’s safe for coral reefs and breaks down naturally is the best choice. Even better if it has natural ingredients and packaging that also breaks down. Eco-friendly sunscreen is good for the planet and also better for your skin. Coral reefs are super sensitive, and regular sunscreen has chemicals that can hurt
Badger Reef Safe Sunscreen, Unscented SPF 40, 98% Organic, Approved for Hawaii & Mexico Reefs
Eco-friendly, natural Insect Repellent: If you’re heading to a warm, tropical place, don’t forget bug spray! Without it, you’ll probably get eaten alive by mosquitoes, which can really ruin your trip. Unfortunately, most bug sprays have some pretty harmful chemicals. But natural bug sprays can work just as well. Environmentally friendly mosquito repellent is better for your skin and the planet, so you’re doing yourself a favor by using it.
Babyganics Insect Spray, 2oz, Travel Size, Made with Plant and Essential Oils
Biodegradable Wet Wipes: Another thing that’s great for camping and hiking is wet wipes. Most wet wipes have to be thrown in the trash after you use them. But if you want to be greener, grab some biodegradable wet wipes to clean up while being kinder to the Earth.
Nolla Wipes – 100% Plant-Based and Biodegradable – Soft, Unscented + Soothing Aloe and Vitamin E
Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles
Help keep our natural world healthy for a long time by following the 7 Rules of ‘Leave No Trace’ whenever you’re exploring wild areas.
- Plan ahead and be prepared.
- Stick to trails and durable surfaces when you travel and camp.
- Throw away your trash properly.
- Leave things as you found them.
- Be careful with campfires.
- Respect the animals.
- Be nice to the people who live there and other visitors.
Wrapping Up
Even though traveling isn’t the most eco-friendly thing we can do, luckily there are lots of ways to make your impact smaller. One of the best tips is to just be aware of which travel products are bad for the environment and to use eco-friendly options instead. It’s a simple but really effective way to help the planet. By choosing sustainable and eco-friendly travel stuff, you can help reduce waste and pollution and also support companies that make things in a good way!