My Sustainable Travel Must Haves Gift Guide

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Updated for 2024

As a traveller, it is important to think about the impact the activity of travel has on the environment. We must make eco-conscious decisions on how we travel but also what we travel with. This is my guide (with shoppable links) to my sustainable travel must-haves and makes the perfect gift guide too

1. Reusable Water Bottle

The first thing I usually pack on any trip whether it’s domestic or international is a reusable water bottle. Not all of them are created equal so it’s important that you get one that is not only functional but great for the environment too. Like this super cute wood effect one from S’well, it keeps your drinks hot or cold and will easily fit inside your day bag. Remember to bring it on the plane with you in your hand luggage so you can refill it at the water stations. A great sustainable alternative.

2. Reusable Cutlery

When you are out and about and don’t want to use the plastic cutlery the takeaway food stall is offering, grab this perfect bamboo cutlery roll-up. Not only is bamboo biodegradable but it is super lightweight so it won’t weigh your bag down.

3. Organic Cotton Shopping Bags

Next time you are headed to the local corner shop for your picnic, take along these reusable & sustainable produce bags. Not only does it save you from having to use plastic bags but also prevents you from having to carry everything with your hands. Because let’s face it, who hasn’t attempted to carry everything a little too arrogantly only to find it all falling onto the floor?

4. Reef-Friendly Mineral Sun Screen

Every time you put on suncream and go swimming, the chemicals wash away into the ocean causing damage to the sea bed and coral. Switch to a reef-friendly organic natural sun cream and do your part for the environment. Mineral sunscreens are more accessible these days, like this one from Blue Lizard.

Looking for Inspiration for an Eco Tour – check out my post on the best eco-tour in Tulum.

5. Bamboo Toothbrush

I’ve been using bamboo toothbrushes for a while now and the thought of going back to a disposable plastic one is horrifying. If you have ever seen a beach clean-up you will know that plastic toothbrushes are one of the top things found in the rubbish – they don’t degrade over time and are harmful to the environment. Choose a cute sustainable bamboo toothbrush like these colourful ones and feel good knowing it will biodegrade over time.

6. Solid Toiletries

You know when you stay in a hotel and they have mini shampoos and shower gels, well these are super bad for the environment. Not only is there so much waste but the sheer amount of plastic used is insane. Do your bit for the environment and bring along solid toiletries like this Eco Warrior Shampoo Bar. Not only do you not need to bring your own minis on holiday but you can feel good and smell delicious whilst helping the environment.

7. Reusable Straws

You may not use a straw but you will be surprised how many times restaurants and cafes will try to give you one, even paper straws don’t get recycled. If you ever find yourself grabbing a milkshake or a smoothie, then whip out your bamboo reusable straw that comes in its very own fabric pouch. Super easy to clean and biodegrades over time.

8. A Second Hand Book

OK, so this isn’t something that you can purchase but I couldn’t leave it off the list. I could suggest a Kindle-style product but to be honest I can’t stand them. I’m a book lover and LOVE real paper books. I just don’t buy them brand-new. I scour second-hand bookstores and stalls, join local libraries and get my fix that way. Bring along your holiday story to entertain you and give an old book a new lease of life. Download the Libby App to get access to online library books!

9. Beeswax Wraps

If you are like me then you love to shop local when on vacation and buy snacks for picnics galore. I find buying local produce enables me to take my food to some of the most picturesque locations which often can’t be experienced in restaurants and hotels. So to keep all of your goodies fresh, use beeswax food wraps. A zero-waste, reusable food wrap alternative to cling film. It will also make it easier to not buy products covered in plastic for ease. Many come in beautiful hand-painted designs and will make your picnic super stylish.

10. Reusable Make Up Pads

To be honest, I’m surprised it has taken us this long to realise that reusable make-up pads are just tiny facecloths. Repackaged and branded in a way that is user-friendly. Not only are they great as a sustainable alternative to disposable make-up wipes but they are perfect for taking on vacation. Normally each pack comes with 12 so it’s enough for a normal vacation duration.

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