For the better part of the last year, travelling hasn’t been on the forefront of everyone’s mind. It’s at that point though that dreaming and theoretically planning a new trip could be what gets you through more lockdowns and pandemic trouble.
In hopes that this will soon all be over, I’m sharing some sustainable travel gear for your next trip. These can be purchased anytime and until travel is an option, they’ll serve as a good opportunity to think about the future—in a more positive way.
After all, it’s always good to take a break from what’s currently going on and focus on adding more good to the world—such as these sustainable products. Just keep in mind, to be the most sustainable, don’t throw out old things to purchase something new. Either donate old things if it’s not working for you anymore, or try to upcycle and recycle, before throwing things in the trash.
This gear is going to set you up for long days of travelling all around the world. I choose and use sustainable gear that’s lightweight, easy to wear, compact and works in multiple weather conditions. This way you get more use out of what you have, and can pack less.
This list contains everything from luggage, to shoes and fun extras from companies which are sustainable to buy from. These companies don’t just use sustainable fabrics, also sustainable business practises and fair-trade, ethical production.
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Luggage by Terra Thread
Terra in many latin languages means earth, and that’s exactly what Terra Thread focuses their products on: working with the earth. Not only are fabrics fair-trade, but so are the wearhouses in which the products are produced. Purchasing luggage from Terra Thread means a win for all with fair-trade, organic cotton and sustainable businesses practises.
The company makes all sorts of travel and luggage necessities. Starting small from zipper pouches all the way to duffel bags and backpacks. What I like about this company is its sustainable practises are backed by affordable prices, which shows it’s possible to support good while staying on budget.
Water Filtration by Hydros Bottle
Staying hydrated is a huge part of staying healthy, focused and energetic while travelling. You can’t do that without somewhere to hold your water. And, as water can get funky is different countries/cities/regions/taps it’s always good to have your own water filtration. For me, it’s especially important with van life, so I can have clean and cold water in my fridge to make it through the hot days.
Hydros sells bottles, carafes, pitchers, filters and more to keep clean water while you’re on the go. If you have a fridge available, the carafe is a good option, but of course the easy-to-use water bottle is also great.
If you’re travelling somewhere hot, definitely get ahold of an insulated 1 litre water bottle, such as this one by Cheeki. They might be pricey, but it has a lifetime warranty. It’s also the best way to keep water cool on a hot day.
Shoes by Allbirds
A while back I lost my favourite pair of Nike shoes, I was reluctant to buy more from the same brand as I’ve been focusing on only buying from sustainable and ethical companies. After some Google searching I came across the gems at Allbirds.
I was skeptical of them at first. They just seemed too nice, and I didn’t want to get them dirty. But when I finally started wearing them, everything changed. I never want to take them off!
It’s also the first time as an adult I’ve enjoyed going sockles, they’re best worn this way. Please do yourself—and the world—a favour and stop over at Allbirds to snag a pair. The company sells an array of shoes for different occasions, and rotating colours to go with them. I have the Women’s Wool Runners in Pitaya.
Self-Cafe by Earth Harbor Naturals
Travelling for a lot of people is just going from one place to the next and doing everything to survive in between. I used to travel like this. But, since travelling full-time, I now take these magical things called breaks. Yes, relaxing needs to be a part of travelling if you truly want to enjoy the trip. If your mind and soul isn’t rested, the trip may not be as enjoyable.
Whether it’s a break day, or just a few minutes to yourself, that’s when Earth Harbor Naturals comes in. They sell ethically-sourced, natural and cruelty-free beauty products—perfect for self-care. Their Rose Gold Gemstone Facial Roller alone is the perfect way to wake up your skin in the morning. Their products have been shown in the likes of Elle, Glamour, Vogue and more.
Clothing by Patagonia
When it comes to clothing that’s ethically made out of sustainable fabrics, Patagonia is a big all-rounder here. The reason it’s better to purchase sustainable clothing for travelling, is that it’s better quality than what’s found at fast fashion brands. Meaning you won’t need to pack as many clothing, and those clothes are going to withstand more travelling. From my experience, they’re also more comfortable so they’re easy to wear in different weather conditions.
The clothing from Patagonia spans from shirts, sweaters, bottoms, jumpsuits, sports gear and then some. It’s also a company that takes care of the planet and its employees. And purchasing products from the company goes to loads of good projects on top of supporting sustainable clothing production. Something that’s equally important to feel good about!
To learn more about travel sustainability, check out my list of tips for staying van life eco-friendly and sustainable!
