Essential Eco-Friendly Travel Gear for Sustainable Adventures
Every time we board a plane, take to the open road, or simply order a plate of seafood in a landlocked locale, we’re racking up significant tolls on the environment. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. You can minimize your footprint while traveling without going to extremes. From solar-powered packs to recycled goods galore, the following items will start you off on the right foot.
1. Solgaard Shore-Tex Lifepack
The Solgaard Shore-Tex Lifepack is a savior in more ways than one. With anti-theft features, a solar-charging battery pack, and upcycled-plastic construction, this backpack meets multiple needs. Its removable power bank only requires an hour of bright sunshine to boost your smartphone by 25%, and it also works with non-direct sunlight. The company also commits to removing 5 pounds of plastic from the ocean for every item sold, effectively contributing to marine conservation. Moreover, the Lifepack is shipped in water-resistant, reversible tote bags to reduce waste.
Shore-Tex Lifepack + Solarbank, $165; amazon.com
2. Nimble 10-day Fast Portable Charger
A portable charger is an essential item for every traveler. Nimble’s 10-day charge version holds enough power to last for more than a week, offering an impressive 80% charge in just 30 minutes. Compatible with major devices, this charger is made from plant-based plastics and recyclable aluminum. Each purchase comes with a prepaid return envelope for recycling old products, reinforcing sustainable practices.
10-day Fast Portable Charger, $130; amazon.com
3. Karst Stone Paper Recycled Stone Notebooks
Karst Stone Paper, a certified B-Corp, produces notebooks from recycled construction and mining rubble. These notebooks write smoothly and are moisture-resistant, all while saving trees and conserving water. Notably, the production of one ton of stone paper requires only 27 gallons of water, compared to traditional wood pulp that consumes over 15,000 gallons.
Recycled stone notebooks, from $12; karststonepaper.com
4. Caran d’Ache x Nespresso Recycled Coffee-Pod Pen
This stylish pen, a collaboration between Caran d’Ache and Nespresso, is made from recycled aluminum coffee pods. It features an elegant design with a blue ink cartridge that lasts for up to 600 sheets of A4 paper. Additionally, its plastic-free packaging emphasizes commitment to environmental responsibility.
Ballpoint Pen 849 NESPRESSO Limited Edition 2, $54; amazon.com
5. Bureo Fishnet Flyer Frisbee
Bureo transforms discarded fishing nets into fun products like their Fishnet Flyer frisbee. Having collected over 400 tons of fishing nets, Bureo repurposes them while funding sustainable projects in coastal communities. This frisbee is travel-friendly and perfect for beach getaways.
Fishnet Flyer frisbee, $12; bureo.co
6. Eco-Pals Reusable Collapsible Straw
Amid the movement against single-use plastics, having a reusable straw is essential. The Eco-Pals stainless-steel collapsible straw fits easily into pockets or key rings, making it convenient for travel and reducing waste from traditional plastic straws.
Eco-Pals reusable collapsible straw, $7; myecopals.com
7. BergHoff Leo Travel Flatware Set
Investing in a portable, stainless-steel flatware set can eliminate the need for disposable options, which often end up in landfills. The BergHoff Leo set includes a knife, fork, and spoon, all housed in a tight-fitting silicone sleeve and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
BergHoff Leo travel flatware set, $15; amazon.com
8. Package Free Soft Silicone Travel Bottles
The need for reusable bottles continues to rise as travelers face limitations with hotel mini toiletries. The Package Free silicone travel bottles are TSA-approved, easy to squeeze, and sure to stand the test of time, helping you to minimize plastic waste.
Soft silicone travel bottles, from $7; packagefreeshop.com
9. Etee Reusable Snack Bags and Wraps
Combat plastic pollution with Etee’s organic-cotton wraps and bags. Inspired by ancient food preservation methods, these reusable and biodegradable products are infused with beeswax and tree resin, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional food storage options.
Reusable snack bags, $25 for three; amazon.com