10 (Actually Useful) Eco-Friendly Travel Products For The Conscious Explorer
This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a small commission from qualifying purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Making sustainable choices when travelling isn’t always easy. However, single-use plastic isn’t always the cheapest option considering it’s long-term cost on the environment.
There are so many eco-friendly travel products and accessories available today that choosing what’s best for the environment has never been easier.
You don’t need to throw your zero-waste habits out the door when you’re away from home. Here are some environmentally friend products to consider taking on your next trip.
top TIPS FOR BUILDING a zero-waste TRAVEL KIT
- If you’re in need of a new suitcase, consider shopping second hand from online marketplaces or your local op shop.
- Pack light. Pack purposefully for the destination you’re going to. How many “layers” or “options” do you really need? I managed to travel around eastern Europe for two weeks in Fall with just a tiny carry on suitcase. Challenge yourself next time you travel – the carry-on life is where’s it’s at, I promise! If you end up packing too heavy and realise it’s not convenient, (been there!) give some of your clothes away or donate them.
- Take what you already have instead of buying new stuff. The latest KeepCup might look snazzy but if your 5-year-old travel mug works fine, save your money and use that.
- Buy accessories that you know you’ll actually use. Haven’t used a straw in 10 years? Probably don’t need to drop dollars on a stainless steel straw then.
Keep whatever you use, eat or pack as close to nature. Think, what would grandma do?
The oceanprenuer
10 eco-friendly travel products you’ll actually use
Reusable Mug or Coffee Cup
This is an essential eco-friendly travel product. Whether you’re a tea, coffee or cold drinks person, it’s likely you’ll grab a beverage to go at some point in your trip. Invest in a good-quality travel cup and make sure you can close it fully (no open sippy holes!). I use this one by Huskee as well as my trusty glass KeepCup (just don’t drop it).
These double as a good container as well – hello overnight oats and leftovers from the hotel breakfast!
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
I get it – buying plastic water bottles can seem incredibly convenient on the go. You don’t have to carry them around and at most supermarkets you can get 1.5litres for under $1. But if you do that everyday? That could be dozens of plastic bottles entering landfill during your trip! I use this stainless steel one by Klean Kanteen. If space is a concern, try a collapsible water bottle or look for one you can hook onto your bag.
Reusable utensils kit
Bamboo cutlery sets are a lightweight and compact option for travel. I used mine almost every day. Alternatively, wrap up some of your own cutlery if you’re road tripping (airport security might not be a fan of those knives).
Reusable bags
Fabric shopping bags are a staple zero-waste item to pop in your suitcase. You can easily scrunch these up into your backpack – you never know when you’ll need them. Same goes for silicone food pouches which are great for carrying snacks or small items.
Food wraps
If you’ve got reusable food wraps at home, take a couple with you. Use for sandwiches on the go or when saving food from the hostel breakfast spread! Having food wraps on hand means you can easily pop that half-eaten sandwich or that raw vegan treat you bought from that cool plant-based café in your bag.
plastic-free sanitary products
Probably one of the most impactful zero-waste swap to reduce your footprint at home and abroad. Make the switch to menstrual cup like the Ruby Cup. Being able to wear one for eight hours is SO convenient when you’re out and about. Nervous about using them in public bathrooms? Ruby Cup shares tips on their website.
shampoo bar
A simple way to make your morning routine more eco-friendly is switching to shampoo bars. You’ll save space in your luggage and have fewer liquids (and leaks!) to worry about when going through security. These can double as a body wash bar as well. At the moment I’m loving this one and this one.
kindle
Before all you booklovers @ me, I want to say that the experience of reading real books wins hands down. However, carrying physical books while travelling is a real pain in the bum. While its not the cheapest zero-waste swap, an e-reader like Kindle is a lifesaver in this scenario. Just don’t forget the charger!
Solar Charger
A solar charger is handy piece of hardware to have in a pickle (brought the wrong adapter again?) and a great way to use a little less energy when travelling.
For the adventurous…
If you need to do your washing on the go, Ive heard great things about Scrubba wash bags. If you need to keep the mosquitos at bay, Drinkteatravel recommends this eco-friendly insect repellent.
What are your favourite eco-friendly travel products? Share them in the comments below!
