Travel can have a monumental impact on the environment. Air travel produces upwards of 800 Million tons of carbon dioxide each year which is around 2.5% of global emissions. A million plastic bottles are purchased every minute around the world leading to 400 million tons of plastic waster yearly. Between 5 million and 13 million tons of this plastic leaks into the world’s oceans each year to be ingested by birds, fish and other animals, and by 2050 the ocean may contain more plastic by weight than actual fish. Scary huh? So, knowing those facts, we really should do our best to minimize our impacts when we travel (all the time really, but this is a travel blog so...) and here are a few ideas that are a more sustainable approach. Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Reusable Water Bottle
This is a travel essential for sure. Don't add to the global plastic problem by buying disposable plastic bottles. Get yourself a good reusable bottle ideally insulated to keep your water nice and cold. Many airports have refilling stations past security so you can empty the bottle before going through the checkpoint and fill up afterwards. If staying at a hotel they will possibly have a water station as well, or if not you can buy a large glass container to keep in the room and fill up before heading out. If you are in a country that has good tap water then you are set.
2. Solar-Powered Charger and Power Bank
Keep your electronic devices charged on the go with a solar-powered charger and a power bank. Harness the power of the sun to recharge the power bank and reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources. Compact and portable, these devices are perfect for outdoor adventures and off-the-grid travel. I highly recommend using the solar charger to power up your bank and then use the bank to charge the phone or other device. Why? Well, phones and tablets will heat up in the sun and will shut down the charge cycle if they get too warm. I know you can always get a solar powered bank too but I'd rather have independent devices in my travel arsenal.
3. Reusable Toiletry Bottles
Minimize waste by packing your favorite toiletries in reusable travel-sized bottles. Opt for silicone or bamboo containers that can be refilled with your preferred shampoo, conditioner, or body wash. The ones shown above are TSA compliant and are leak proof. Not only will you reduce plastic waste, but you'll also save space in your luggage. Of course if you want to splurge a little you can always go for the Cadence Magnetic Travel containers. They are super cute and trendy, but you'll be looking at around $65 for a set of three.
4. Bamboo Utensil Set
Say no to disposable cutlery and embrace a sustainable alternative with a bamboo utensil set. Perfect for picnics, street food adventures, or en route to your destination by plane or train. They are lightweight and eco-friendly and are easy to clean making them reusable. Enjoy your meals guilt-free while reducing single-use plastic waste. These ones come with a fork, spoon, knife, chopsticks, straw and a small brush for cleaning the straw. There is a carabiner on the pouch to let you attach it to a backpack or belt loop. What more could you need? Traveling with a friend? For an extra $5 you can get 2 pairs in different color pouches.
5. Turkish Cotton Travel Towel
Swap out your traditional towel for a compact and quick-drying travel towel. Made from Turkish cotton in Turkiye, these towels are a versatile addition to your travel gear. They are available in numerous colors, and are super lightweight yet very absorbent. They also resist sand so they are ideal for the beach. Made to STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX which requires every component of a textiles product—including all thread, buttons, and trims—to be tested against a list of more than 1,000 harmful regulated and unregulated chemicals which may be harmful to human health. These are simply a must have for anyone looking to hitch a ride on a passing spaceship as well.
6. Reusable Shopping Bag
Many countries have banned plastic bags outright, and many others charge a fee to get one at the store. Save yourself the hassle and reduce your plastic waste during your travels by carrying a foldable reusable shopping bag. Whether you're picking up souvenirs at a local market or stocking up on groceries for a picnic, having a compact and eco-friendly bag on hand is practical and planet-friendly. These bags are made from cotton and are machine washable as well. These ones come as a three pack so you'll be able to carry plenty of groceries back to your mountain chalet.
Conclusion
Traveling sustainably doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. By incorporating eco-friendly travel essentials into your packing list, you can explore the world with a lighter environmental footprint. From reusable water bottles to solar-powered chargers, these gear options cater to the conscious wanderer who values both adventure and sustainability. Make a difference with your travel choices and embrace eco-conscious habits on your next journey.
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