Packing lightly and reusing things mindfully are concrete ways to improve your eco-travel experience, so we’ve provided easy ways to not only save money on luggage fees (ahem, fuel costs) but also reduce your carbon footprint and the amount you carry and throw away.
A few starters will help immediately cut down your excess. First, find out what amenities your hotel offers so you won’t waste space in your carry-on or extra plastic for things such as shampoo or lotion.
Recharge your electronics with more power and eco-sustainability for less money and space in your luggage. Nickel-zinc rechargeable batteries – yes, the ones used in hybrid cars – cost less than other rechargeable batteries, have a higher voltage (1.5 volts!) which gives you more power and better recyclability. Using a digital camera on vacation is a more sustainable practice than using a disposable one – not only for the print and film materials, but also for the disposable device itself.
Green Packing List
- Reusable water bottle
- Nickel-zinc rechargeable batteries
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Environmentally-friendly laundry detergent
- Carry-on that doubles as a bag for shopping
- Digital camera
- Electronic maps
Save cash and reduce plastic by bringing a reusable water bottle. Purchasing disposable ones adds up and creates unnecessary waste. Buying three bottles a day on a seven-day trip could easily cost you $40. Instead, buy a sustainable alternative such as SIGG (around $20) that you can refill. For trips to countries where the water sanitation is less than par, consider a brand like Katadyn ($18-30) which filters water as you drink. Simply fill with tap water, and its built-in system purifies the water as you use the straw.
Bag those bad habits with the right piece of luggage. If you’re looking for new gear, consider options with recycled plastic, organic material, or environmentally safe leather that uses natural vegetable goods and sustainable plant-based products in its tanning process. By bringing only a carry-on, you’re not only saving money on luggage fees, but you’re also conserving jet fuel, since more cargo burns more fuel. Bring a carry-on that you’re comfortable using every day, so you can shop with it, instead of wasting paper or plastic bags from the store.
These steps are important to consider before your trip, but another part of being ready is “eco-arming” your home before you leave for the airport. Turn your heat and water heater down, turn off all air conditioning units, and unplug electronics and appliances to minimize energy use and save money on your energy bill.
