Traveling to new destinations and experiencing different cultures can be an enriching experience. However, it is important to be mindful of the impact that our travels can have on the environment. While we may not have control over certain aspects of our trip, such as airfare or hotel accommodations, we can make conscious decisions when it comes to the products we pack.
Enter eco-friendly travel products, which can help reduce our environmental footprint while on the go. From reusable coffee mugs to eco-friendly toiletries, there are plenty of planet-friendly options available. By making these small changes, travelers can embark on greener adventures and leave their eco-woes behind.
In this article, we will explore various eco-friendly travel products and how they can make a difference in reducing our impact on the environment. From sustainable toiletries to zero-waste packing tips, we will provide practical advice for travelers looking to make a positive impact on their next adventure.
The Most Sustainable Travel Products
Traveling sustainably is becoming increasingly important, and one of the most significant ways to do so is by investing in high-quality, eco-friendly travel products. From durable backpacks to reusable water bottles, there are plenty of options available to help reduce your environmental impact while on the go.
1. Durable Backpacks
A quality, durable, sustainable backpack is an essential travel companion and perhaps the most important of all sustainable travel gear. Solgaard’s Lifepack is made of upcycled ocean-bound plastic and features a built-in solar panel, anti-theft lock, and tons of organization. Meanwhile, Patagonia’s Black Hole line of Fair Trade Certified eco-friendly travel bags are made from 100% recycled materials and are perfect for hiking or traveling through TSA Pre-Check.
2. Low-Impact Luggage
For longer trips, checked sustainable luggage is necessary. Paravel’s Aviator hardshell collection is the world’s first 100% carbon-neutral luggage, made from recycled materials, and comes with a five-year warranty. Horizn Studios’ Circle One line is the world’s first biodegradable hardshell suitcase, made from plant-based material that is both lightweight and robust.
3. Eco-Friendly Packing Cubes
Well-organized luggage not only saves you from rummaging through a mountain of clothes, but it also helps you maximize the amount of space in your suitcase. Paravel’s sustainable packing cubes are made from recycled bottles and come in a selection of sizes, while Anchal’s gorgeous, color block toiletry bags and organizers are made from hand-embroidered GOTS-certified organic cotton.
4. Safe Travel Wallet & Passport Holder
Protect your money and ID with a safe passport holder and RFID-equipped sustainable wallet. Bellroy’s wallets feature RFID protection and are made from eco-friendly materials, including 100% recycled nylon or ethical leather sourced from LWG Gold-certified tanneries. Ekster’s wallets also feature RFID protection, along with a solar-powered GPS tracking system.
5. Portable Solar Panels
A portable solar panel is an innovative, eco-friendly way to charge your electronic devices on the move and a must-have item for your sustainable travel kit. BioLite’s portable solar panels are designed for rugged adventures, while Goal Zero’s portable solar panels are ideal for your next van life or RV trip.
6. Reusable Water Bottle & Coffee Cup
Investing in a reusable water bottle and coffee cup can significantly reduce your environmental impact while on the go. Klean Kanteen’s stainless steel water bottles and coffee cups are perfect for travel, while Stojo’s collapsible cups are ideal for saving space in your luggage.
7. Water Purifier
A water purifier is an excellent investment for those who love to travel off the beaten path. Grayl’s Ultralight Purifier Bottle removes viruses, bacteria, and protozoan cysts from any freshwater source in just 15 seconds.
8. To-Go Food Storage & Reusable Cutlery
Reduce your plastic waste by investing in to-go food storage and reusable cutlery. Stasher’s reusable silicone bags are perfect for storing snacks, while To-Go Ware’s bamboo utensils are ideal for eating on the go.
9. Travel Toiletries
Conscious toiletries for travel are essential for reducing your environmental impact while on the go. Ethique and Lush offer solid shampoo and conditioner bars, while OrganiCup’s menstrual cup is an eco-friendly alternative to disposable tampons and pads.
10. Travel Towel
A travel towel is an essential item for any sustainable traveler. Nomadix’s towels are made from recycled plastic bottles and are perfect for the beach or a yoga session.
11. Laundry Supplies
Reduce your environmental impact by investing in sustainable laundry supplies. Tru Earth’s laundry detergent strips are eco-friendly and perfect for travel, while Cora Ball’s microfiber-catching laundry ball helps reduce microfiber pollution.
12. Travel Journal
Document your sustainable travels with a travel journal. Decomposition’s journals are made from recycled paper and are perfect for jotting down notes and memories.
13. Travel Pillows
Invest in a sustainable travel pillow for a comfortable and eco-friendly journey. The Turtl Pillow is made from recycled plastic bottles and is perfect for long flights or bus rides.
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A Note On Eco-Friendly Travel
When it comes to sustainable travel, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, there are several ways to reduce your carbon footprint and minimize waste on your trips.
One of the most significant contributors to carbon emissions in travel is air travel. Therefore, it is essential to consider alternative modes of transportation like trains or cars, which have a significantly lower carbon output per passenger. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that these modes of transport also have their environmental impacts, such as fossil fuel usage and waste.
To support the local economy and environment, travelers can opt for independent businesses and ecotourism companies. These companies focus on preserving the environment and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Travelers can also purchase carbon offsets from organizations like Terrapass to offset their carbon output. Carbon offsets help fund renewable energy projects and reduce carbon emissions elsewhere to compensate for the emissions generated during travel.
Using eco-friendly travel products is another way to minimize waste and reduce the environmental impact of travel. These products include biodegradable and compostable items, reusable containers, and sustainable travel products.
In conclusion, sustainable travel involves making mindful choices to reduce waste and carbon emissions. By choosing alternative modes of transportation, supporting local businesses, purchasing carbon offsets, and using eco-friendly travel products, travelers can significantly reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable tourism practices.
How We Found The Best Eco-Friendly Travel Products
When it comes to traveling, it’s important to consider the impact we have on the environment. Fortunately, there are many eco-friendly travel products available that can help us reduce our carbon footprint while on the move. In this section, we will discuss how the best eco-friendly travel products were selected based on certain criteria.
Materials
The first criterion for selecting eco-friendly travel products was the materials used in their production. Sustainable and non-toxic materials were given priority, and products made from responsibly sourced renewable materials were preferred. Recycled materials, especially those made from post-consumer waste, were also considered.
To ensure that the products met the required standards, certifications such as Environmental Working Group (EWG), Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), and Leather Working Group (LWG) were taken into account.
Supply Chain & Labor Practices
The second criterion for selecting eco-friendly travel products was the brand’s supply chain and labor practices. Brands with transparent supply chains and ethical labor practices were preferred. It was important to know where the product was made and who made it.
Certifications such as B Corporation (B Corp), fair trade, and Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit (SMETA) were considered to ensure that the brands met the required standards.
Carbon Commitments & Green Practices
The third criterion for selecting eco-friendly travel products was the brand’s carbon commitments and green practices. Brands that took genuine steps towards lowering their carbon footprint were preferred. Climate Neutral Certified brands were given priority.
Brands that purchased carbon offsets and worked to reduce their emissions across the full length of their supply chains were also considered.
Community & Charitable Giving
The final criterion for selecting eco-friendly travel products was the brand’s community and charitable giving. Brands that gave back to the community in multiple ways, such as staff volunteering, raising awareness, and donating products and finances to worthy causes, were preferred.
After considering all of these criteria, the best eco-friendly travel products were selected. These products were light, packable, and long-lasting, so travelers could get as many uses out of them as possible. Bonus points were given to products that could be repaired to extend their life.
Final Thoughts On Eco-Friendly Products For Travel
In conclusion, eco-friendly travel products are a great way to be environmentally friendly while saving money and space on your trip. By selecting products that meet the required standards, travelers can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future.
When adventuring around the planet, it’s important to be kind to it. By using eco-friendly travel products, travelers can do their part in preserving the environment.
