The Best Sustainable Travel Items for an Eco-Friendly Trip

Travelling sustainably isn’t a choice; it’s a responsibility we owe to our planet. Through eco-friendly transportation, mindful waste reduction, and a commitment to respecting the locales we explore, we can make the most out of our adventures while minimising our impact.

In Australia, as much as 72% of travellers think sustainable travel is crucial, according to a 2021 Sustainable Travel Report. Yet, 43% of respondents feel that there are not enough sustainable options.

As climate change continues to threaten the most beloved tourist attractions, there are habits we can individually adopt to do our part in protecting the planet. Here are some sustainable travel essentials to consider bringing to make your next trip eco-friendly.

4 Sustainable Travel Essentials

Zero-waste Toiletries

Conventional toiletries usually contain harmful chemicals and non-biodegradable materials that can pollute water sources and damage ecosystems when washed away. On the other hand, eco-friendly toiletries are made from natural, biodegradable ingredients, reducing their environmental impact.

Minimise single-use plastic waste by opting for shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, and bamboo toothbrushes. These are all available on Australia-based brand The Living Company’s online shop, which carries zero-waste toiletries. Using these alternatives will also make airport security checks a breeze as they do not come in liquid form.

Eco-friendly Backpacks

Another way to travel in a more sustainable and eco-friendly manner is by packing light. The heavier your luggage is, the more fuel it takes to transport it by plane, bus, car, or train. Try to pack your bag as light as possible to reduce fuel consumption and help minimise carbon emissions, and opt for backpacks that are sustainably made whenever possible.

For those who frequently travel by plane and need a convenient backpack for carrying drones and related equipment, check out our guide on the Best Backpacks for Drones.

Start off by choosing a lightweight bag like Oakley’s Voyager backpack. It’s made out of recycled nylon, making it both environmentally friendly and water-repellent, and has a capacity of 26 litres. Oakley is also a member of the Better Cotton initiative and sources at least 50% of the cotton they use from recycled, fairtrade, and organic cotton.

As an added bonus, this sleek backpack can fit in most aircraft’s overhead compartments, freeing you from baggage fees. If you’re planning an adventure in the stunning landscapes of Australia, make sure to explore our guide on the Best Backpacks for Australia.

Reef-safe Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a staple for everyone as it’s essential for protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. But you may unknowingly be contributing to the degradation of coral reefs whenever you slop it on. Research shows that an estimated 14,000 tons of sunscreen is left behind in the ocean annually and is harming marine life.

The ingredients to blame are oxybenzone and octinoxate, substances that are toxic to reefs and cause the rapid bleaching of hard corals. Sunscreen products containing oxybenzone have been banned in places like Hawaii, Aruba, and Mexico.

Read the ingredients list at the back of your tube of sunscreen, and if it contains oxybenzone or octinoxate, toss it. Instead, opt for reef-safe sunscreens like Sun Bum’s Original SPF 50+ sunscreen lotion or People4Ocean’s SPF 50 sunscreen.

Reusable Water Bottles

Having a reusable water bottle combats plastic pollution, conserves resources, saves you money, and minimises your environmental impact. Carrying a reusable bottle also ensures that you have access to hydration wherever you go.

If you prefer to travel without being weighed down by a large water bottle, the Platypus 2-Litre Ultralight Collapsible Water Bottle is perfect for you. Meanwhile, the 700ml Takeya Insulated Stainless Steel Bottle is best if you like quenching your thirst with cold water.

It may seem small, but it’s a meaningful step toward a greener and more responsible travel experience.

By making conscious choices about what we take on our travels, we can create a positive impact wherever we go.

This can help us better safeguard the beauty of our world, protect its wildlife, and preserve the richness of diverse cultures for generations to come. It’s not just about enjoying travel today, but about ensuring that the wonders of our world endure for the travellers of tomorrow.

Check out our website for more eco-friendly travelling tips, luggage reviews, and must-see destinations!