Travel light — and travel right. If you love the outdoors, your gear choices should reflect that. Here’s a checklist of eco-friendly travel essentials that reduce waste, save energy, and support sustainable brands.

1. Reusable Water Bottle

Single-use plastic is out. Go for a stainless steel or BPA-free bottle. Bonus: insulated bottles keep drinks hot or cold for hours.

2. Filter or Purifier

By using a Sawyer Squeeze or Grayl bottle, you eliminate the need to buy plastic water bottles abroad — saving money and the environment.

3. Solid Toiletries

Shampoo bars, soap bars, toothpaste tablets — they last longer, don’t leak, and often come with zero packaging.

4. Reusable Utensils & Straw

Ditch disposables with a lightweight titanium spork or bamboo utensil set. Pack a collapsible straw too.

5. Eco-Packaging Brands

Look for companies using recycled materials, zero-waste packaging, or carbon-offsetting. Great brands: Patagonia, Cotopaxi, tentree, Sea to Summit Eco Series.

6. Solar Charger

Harness clean energy to charge your gear. Ideal for off-grid trips and basecamps.

7. Reusable Bags

A foldable tote or mesh bag helps avoid plastic bags when shopping or organizing gear.

8. Ethically-Made Apparel

Support brands that pay fair wages, use organic or recycled fabrics, and minimize water usage.

Every purchase is a vote for the kind of world you want to travel in. With mindful choices, your gear can do good — not just for you, but for the planet you explore.