Traveling is an enjoyable and enriching experience, but if not done mindfully, it can also have a significant impact on the environment.
With growing awareness of our carbon footprint, many travellers seek ways to make their journeys more sustainable. A key solution is to start incorporating eco-friendly travel products into your adventures.
Undoubtedly, people are starting to move towards packing more sustainable travel gear versus the traditional choices we’ve had in the past. And it does make sense, as who doesn’t want to have a positive impact by being a pro-social and an eco-conscious traveller?
In this article, we’ve compiled the best eco-friendly travel products to help you minimise your environmental impact while travelling overseas.
From reusable water bottles to biodegradable toiletries, these travel gear products are designed to reduce waste without compromising on functionality.
If you want to know about the best travel gear, tips and ideas, you can learn more about them here. Here, I’ve compiled some articles to help you shop the best gear for your travels.
Discover the ultimate list of sustainable travel gear that allows you to travel responsibly and comfortably.
So, let’s get straight into it.
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Top 7 Sustainable Travel Products For Eco-Friendly Explorers
As responsible travellers, our journey is not just about the destinations we reach but the impact we leave behind.
To embrace sustainability in every step, we’ve compiled a list of the top 7 eco-friendly travel products designed to make your adventures memorable and more environmentally conscious.
1. Reusable Water Bottles
One of the most simple and effective ways to reduce your environmental impact while travelling is by bringing a reusable water bottle.
These sustainable travel bottles help you avoid single-use plastic bottles that can end up in landfills or oceans. Look for a durable bottle made from stainless steel or glass materials.
Beyond the evident environmental benefits, using a reusable water bottle aligns with the broader goal of resource conservation.
By eliminating the constant demand for new plastic bottles, you reduce the extraction of raw materials and the energy required for manufacturing and transportation.
According to the Pacific Institute, it takes about 17 million barrels of oil to produce the plastic bottles used in the United States each year.
To me, that’s quite a scary stat!
And, on top of that, producing plastic bottles requires large amounts of water, energy, and other resources.
So, by using a reusable water bottle, you can help reduce your impact on the environment and conserve resources.
Here are some great sustainable travel bottles to check out online:
- Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle (with Straw, Reusable, Stainless Steel Metal)
The Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle is one of the best sustainable travel products that should be on your checklist.
Crafted from durable stainless steel, this reusable bottle features an innovative straw design and a built-in Brita filter, ensuring every sip is crisp and refreshing. With double-wall insulation, it keeps your water cold for hours.
Using this bottle means you don’t need to buy plastic bottles during your travels, which is another bonus.
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- Simple Modern Water Bottle (with Straw, Lid, Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel, Reusable Leak Proof BPA-Free)
The Simple Modern Insulated Summit Water Bottle is your perfect travel companion for staying hydrated on the go!
This sleek stainless-steel bottle from the Summit Collection is not just a stylish accessory; it keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature with double-wall insulation. It’s ideal for adventure lovers as it’s easy to carry and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
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- Moon Bottles Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle (with double-walled metal, BPA Free)
If you are looking for the best sustainable ways to travel, then start by saying no to plastic bottles.
Choose the Moon Bottles Insulated Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle that is stylish and durable, making it perfect for your on-the-go adventures. With its reusable nature, you’re not just investing in a bottle; you’re making a choice for keeping the environment safe.
2. Reusable Shopping / Shoulder Bag
Plastic bags are a significant contributor to waste pollution.
They can take hundreds of years to decompose and often end up in oceans and waterways, where they can harm ocean life. This is why it’s important to start taking small steps to reduce them and protect our environment.
Using a reusable shopping bag can reduce our reliance on single-use plastic bags and help protect the environment.
It’s a great item to include if packing sustainable travel gear is a priority for you.
Some great options to check out online are:
- KINGMAS Reusable Bag – Eco-Friendly Folding Tote Shopping Bag fits in Pocket, Washable Waterproof Nylon Pouch Bags
Are you looking for a practical and stylish solution to adopt a greener lifestyle? The KINGMAS Reusable Eco-Friendly Shopping Bag could be what you need.
Made of durable nylon, this bag is perfect for grocery shopping or when you need a reusable bag while travelling. It is also washable and designed to last a lifetime, so you don’t have to worry about buying bags repeatedly.
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Allydrew Reusable bag is undoubtedly one of the best eco-friendly travel products you need for your adventures.
This reusable bag is perfect for carrying your groceries, shopping, or even for storage purposes while travelling.
It comes in various colourful designs and is large enough to hold all your essentials. Additionally, it is foldable, so it takes up very little space and can be taken anywhere with you.
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You cannot miss the Beegreen Reusable bags among the top sustainable travel items.
This versatile bag can hold up to 50 pounds, making it a great alternative to single-use plastic bags. It can be easily folded and stored in your bag during travel.
The bag is designed with polyester material that is easy to clean and wash, ensuring it can be used repeatedly.
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3. Biodegradable/ Reusable Travel Toiletries
Many traditional toiletries, such as shampoo and soap, contain harmful chemicals and come in plastic packaging.
For example, some shampoos and soaps contain micro-beads, which are tiny plastic particles that can end up in oceans and waterways. These particles can harm ocean life and contribute to pollution.
Instead, look for biodegradable options that use natural ingredients and come in recyclable packaging.
By using sustainable travel products like biodegradable toiletries, you can reduce your impact on the environment and help protect wildlife and our oceans.
Personally, I use silicone bottles for shampoo and conditioner when I travel, so I can simply refill and reuse these rather than throw out plastic bottles once they’re empty.
Great options to check out online:
These refillable and leak-proof bottles are designed conveniently for carrying your favourite lotions, shampoos, and more.
Crafted from high-quality silicone, they’re durable and squeezable for easy dispensing.
The TSA-approved size ensures you breeze through security checkpoints. With a set of vibrant colours and a handy zippered pouch, these travel bottles add a touch of fun to your journey.
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Vonpri Silicone sustainable travel bottles are squeezable and refillable, designed for convenience, making it easier to carry your favourite shampoo, conditioners, hair masks, etc.
With a sleek and compact design, these bottles are perfect for any journey. It also ensures no spills during the journey, which is definitely a lifesaver.
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4. Bamboo Toothbrush
One of the best sustainable travel hacks is opting for a bamboo toothbrush over a plastic one. It offers a range of benefits for both the environment and your eco-conscious travel practices.
Many people have shifted to using bamboo toothbrushes instead of conventional ones because they are crafted from sustainable and biodegradable materials, reducing the environmental impact associated with plastic production and disposal.
Their lightweight and compact design makes them perfect for travel, taking up minimal space in your luggage.
Additionally, they often come in eco-friendly packaging and can be disposed of safely and/or recycled.
By choosing a bamboo toothbrush, you can maintain oral hygiene while actively participating in sustainable travel and promoting environmentally responsible choices, which is especially important when exploring new destinations and respecting local environments.
Great options to check out online:
The Wild & Stone Medium Bristle Organic Bamboo Toothbrush is one of the best eco-friendly travel products for your daily dental routine!
Crafted with sustainability in mind, this toothbrush features biodegradable bamboo handles and medium bristles for a gentle yet effective clean.
With a sleek design and organic materials, it is one of the best choices to start sustainable travelling.
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Laboos Bamboo Toothbrushes are your sustainable choice for a brighter smile and a greener planet!
These eco-friendly toothbrushes feature biodegradable bamboo handles, providing a renewable alternative to plastic.
Choosing a bamboo toothbrush can help contribute to the reduction of plastic waste, without compromising on your oral hygiene.
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And finally, the Zenify Earth bamboo toothbrush ensures good oral health and provides you peace of mind that your choice is positively impacting the environment.
Its sleek and compact design is perfect for your smile and your travels.
5. Bamboo Cutlery
If you plan on eating on the go, consider bringing a set of bamboo utensils with you.
Sure, some may think this is a touch overkill BUT… it is one of the simplest sustainable travel items to take with you because they are lightweight, durable, easy to pack and reusable.
Bamboo cutlery can be a great eco-friendly alternative to disposable plastic utensils – which are often used once and then thrown away.
6. Natural Insect Repellent
One of the most essential sustainable travel hacks is carrying a natural insect repellent.
Protecting yourself from insects such as mosquitoes and ticks can be crucial when exploring new places. However, many conventional insect repellents contain harmful chemicals.
When considering sustainable travel products, natural insect repellent is a good one to add to your list. These days, you can find more mosquito repelling products that use essential oils or other natural ingredients.
By using more natural options, you can reduce your environmental impact and also help to protect yourself and your skin from being exposed to harsh chemicals.
Note: However, I will state the below as a caution…
**If you are going to a malaria-prone area, I would suggest purchasing mosquito repellents that contain a high enough DEET level to ensure you are covered. This is because it is considered high risk.
Great options to check out online:
Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Stickers are your natural defence against pesky insects!
Made with care, these stickers are made for convenience and effectiveness. The natural formula ensures a safe, chemical-free solution. These stickers are versatile and easy to use, perfect for indoor and outdoor activities.
Enjoy your adventures without the worry of insect bites.
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The Citronella Essential Oil Roll-On is your go-to sustainable travel gear for mood-boosting aromatherapy and bug protection.
Experience the uplifting power of citronella with this pre-diluted, therapeutic-grade roll-on.
Perfect for on-the-go use, it’s easy to apply and provides a delightful scent that enhances your mood and helps keep bugs at bay. This roll-on is a must-have for outdoor adventures or simply relaxing at home.
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7. Ethical Souvenirs
If buying souvenirs is a must for you when travelling overseas, purchasing ethical souvenirs can be a more sustainable option to consider.
These special mementoes are usually handcrafted by skilled local artisans using sustainable, recycled or repurposed materials.
By choosing locally-made eco-friendly travel products, you can help to support the livelihoods of locals and contribute to the preservation of age-old craftsmanship.
What makes ethical souvenirs even more special is their ability to encapsulate the essence of the destination – reflecting its culture, heritage, and natural beauty.
This connection deepens the bond between you and the places you visit, turning your souvenirs into meaningful reminders of your journey.
Choosing ethical souvenirs aligns perfectly with responsible travel practices, allowing you to cherish your memories in a way that’s beautiful and mindful of the world we explore.
In Summary:
7 Eco-Friendly Travel Products to Travel More Sustainably
In conclusion, as we become more conscious of the impact of our daily choices on the environment, it’s important to consider how we can extend this awareness to our travel habits.
While travel can be an enriching experience, it can also have significant environmental consequences. It’s important to note that our individual actions, no matter how small, can collectively have a significant impact on the environment.
By choosing eco-friendly travel products and making sustainable choices while travelling, we can contribute to a more significant movement toward environmental sustainability.
Here is a list of 7 sustainable travel products you can add to your packing:
- Reusable water bottle
- Reusable shopping/shoulder bag
- Biodegradable/Reusable toiletries
- Bamboo Toothbrush
- Bamboo Cutlery
- Natural Insect Repellent
The most important part is researching and choosing sustainable travel gear to help us make a greener planet. Besides our recommendations, check your luggage and see which items can be replaced with sustainable travel products.
That is how we all can contribute to eco-friendly travel; that is what we need now more than ever.
Related Articles:
- Travel gear reviews and related articles
- How to be a pro-social and eco-conscious traveller
- Best travel gear for solo travellers and backpackers
