If you have been thinking about reducing your human footprint on the environment, there is no better time to do so than now. Most people are aware that there are a ton of environmental issues and we must all think about how to reduce these environmental impacts, but what many don’t know is that they can also lessen their ecological footprint by strategizing ahead of time and purchasing sustainable travel products. There are many options available, from eco-friendly car rentals to reusable water bottles. Here are some of our favorites and how they impact the environment.
1. Travel-Sized Toiletry Bottles and Containers
Toiletries are a necessity for anyone who plans to go on a long trip. However, they’re often packaged without sustainability in mind. Because of this, plastic and foil packaging litter the world’s oceans every day – severely damaging the marine ecosystem.
You’ve seen the video of turtles with a piece of plastic stuck up their nose, right? That’s something that even the most cautious people don’t mind seeing. It’s a reminder for every one of the destructive effects that unnecessary packaging can have on sensitive animals and the environment.
The first step to promote sustainable tourism is to reduce plastic waste. How? Pack your toiletries in travel-sized bottles, so you can reuse these bottles on future trips without worrying about them breaking or being too heavy.
2. Reusable Water Bottles
Carrying water with you everywhere you go is a must. However, buying disposable water bottles at every gas station, restaurant and park mean that plastic is still filling up your country’s landfills.
You can avoid this by purchasing a reusable water bottle. This will save you money and reduce landfill waste as it is recycled. Plus, your reusable water bottle will help the environment by cutting down on unnecessary plastic – a win-win!
3. Reusable Metal Straws
Disposable cutlery and straws are one of the largest sources of plastic waste. Each day, Americans use around 500 million disposable straws. That’s half a billion straws being used for a few minutes before being tossed into the trash. Not to mention, plastic spoons and forks that come with takeout or sit in your kitchen for months before being thrown away.
Think about it; if you use a reusable straw at every single meal and social gathering, you will save hundreds of plastic straws from the landfill each year.
Not to mention, it’s simply a more durable and Earth-friendly way to enjoy your meal. Most people don’t mind drinking from the cup, but this isn’t always possible. This is why reusable metal straws are one of our most popular travel products.
4. Reusable Travel Cutlery Sets
Traveling with a meal kit is one of the easiest ways to reduce your environmental footprint. However, if you’re a ‘pack it back out’ type of person, you’ll need a set of durable travel cutlery.
These are perfect because they are used to eat with and then packed away without the need for plastic utensils or boxes. They’re not only useful when eating food on the road, but can also be taken out for picnics and barbecues. This is why they’re not only one of the most essential travel products, but also one of the best green products.
For example, we use a set of reusable cutlery when we go camping, which means it doesn’t end up in a landfill. Instead, we wash them and put them back in their storage bag for future use. It’s convenient, and also environmentally friendly.
5. Travel Bags Made of Recycled Materials
One thing people don’t think about much when it comes to eco-friendly choices is their luggage. Sure, it’s good to use a reusable and natural bag for your groceries, but you should also consider how you’ll carry your other luggage.
If you’re like most people, your luggage would be made of plastic material. This includes anything from your suitcase to duffel bags and water bottles. It’s not only bad for the environment, but it also causes mountains of landfill waste each year.
A great alternative is to use travel bags made from recycled materials. These types of bags are usually made of nylon or canvas and can be used for everyday uses such as carrying your homework or a picnic.
You’ll be amazed by how durable these bags are and how long they last. They’re also easy to wash – just throw them in the washing machine when they get a little dirty and you’ll have another bag ready for your next trip!
The Takeaway
From period underwear to reusable water bottles, there are a ton of sustainable travel products that can help you reduce your ecological footprint. These are just a few of our favorites, so scope them out and see which ones you’d like to try. And remember, while it’s important to travel with these products, it’s equally important to reduce plastic waste as much as possible at home.
