1. Patagonia

Ideal for an upcoming camping trip, Patagonia is known for offering a range of sustainable hard-wearing technical gear — and its eco-friendly toiletry bag is no exception.

Made from weather-resistant, recycled polyester fabric that’s been Fair Trade Certified sewn, this sustainable toiletry bag comes in three different sizes that are differentiated by the volume they can carry (3, 6 and 10 liters, respectively). Toss all your essentials in these highly durable pouches and stow them away in your backpack for a carefree adventure. 

Price: $29 – $49

Materials: Recycled polyester

Check out Patagonia

2. Terra Thread

It’s hard to know where to start when it comes to Terra Thread’s range of versatile sustainable toiletry bags. 

Perhaps we could praise its affordable price point? Or its generous size, that has enough room to fit all your favorite lipsticks, a sizeable eyeshadow palette or two, your brush collection, and still have room for a makeup remover and some cotton pads? 

Maybe the fact that it’s available in an array of bright colors? 

We’ll let you know when we decide, but in the meantime, we’re vouching for their functional makeup bags for your next trip.

Oh and we can’t forget about the eco-friendly bonus: All of their bags are made from fair trade, GOTS certified organic cotton.

Price: $15 – $20

Materials: Organic cotton

Check out Terra Thread

3. Carry Courage

Naturally anti-microbial and water-resistant, Carry Courage’s multitasking cosmetics bag might just be the most durable of the bunch. With enough room for essentials like a full-sized makeup palette, brushes, foundation, and just about everything you need, no matter where you’re going.

Their range of eco-friendly travel-friendly bags is made from cork fabric, which happens to be renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable. Each bag is lined with eco-friendly linen, while their cork fabric is PETA approved vegan and can be easily cleaned using mild dish soap.

Price: $43 – $77

Materials: Cork

Check out Carry Courage

4. Anchal

Lightweight and eye-catching, Anchal’s ethical makeup bags feature intricately embroidered cross-stitch details all over that come in a variety of rich earthy hues. We love the fact that these bags come with an outer zip pocket that’s ideal for stashing away from cotton pads and makeup removers.

These earthy bags are made in India and crafted from GOTS certified organic cotton that has been dyed using eco-friendly dyes. Their design approach revives the traditional Kantha quilting techniques from North India to create modern, one-of-a-kind pieces that are fair trade certified. 

Price: $36 – $48

Materials: Organic cotton

Check out Anchal

5. BEEN London

Chic enough to double up as a clutch bag, BEEN London’s eco-friendly makeup bag is made using Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified recycled leather sourced from tannery offcuts and trimmings that would have otherwise been discarded as waste.

Down to the very little detail, they even use eco-friendly NATULON® zippers that are crafted from single-use post-consumer plastic bottles across all their products. 

For every bag purchased, the BEEN London plants a tree and so far, have managed to plant over an acre of trees in the Peruvian Amazon. 

Price: £55

Materials: Recycled leather 

Check out BEEN London (UK)

6. Rothy’s

This brand gets practical travel right by offering not just one, but two differently sized, complementary eco friendly toiletry bags. (A large one for your toiletries plus a smaller one for makeup and/or skincare.)

Made from recycled materials, Rothy’s collects ocean-bound plastic waste from within 30 miles of coastlines and marine environments and transforms them into sustainable toiletry bags that are completely machine-washable. The latter is an important feature when it comes to those unfortunate cosmetic spills.

Price: $$$

Materials: Recycled marine plastic

Check out Rothy’s

7. Rawganique

As its namesake suggests, the brand was founded by two chemically-sensitive folks who wanted to create wearables for people who could not find organic, allergy-free items. As a result, they only create clothes, bags and shoes from dye-free organic cotton, flax linen, and hemp.

Their sustainable toiletry bag is crafted from organically grown European hemp that comes in a range of earthy hues. Spacious enough to fit everything your face, lip and cheeks require — feel free to toss this little bag into your tote or weekender.

Price: $20

Materials: Hemp 

Check out Rawganique

8. O My Bag

Based in Amsterdam, O My Bag creates roomy sustainable toiletry bags made from a unique composition of 30% GRS certified recycled cotton and 70% GOTS certified organic cotton. According to the brand, using this unique blend of recycled and virgin fibers helps them significantly decrease their product’s environmental impact, especially when it comes to water usage.

Their striped eco-friendly makeup pouch comes in a matching set of large and small sizes, perfect for accompanying you on a long backpacking trip. 

Price: €30

Materials: Organic cotton

Check out O My Bag (NL)

9. KOHA Beauty

Made in a minimal black design, KOHA Beauty’s no-frills zip-around sustainable makeup bag can easily fit all of your essentials without taking up too much space in your bag. 

The eco-friendly toiletry bag is made from pineapple fibres that are obtained from the fruit’s plant leaves, which are washed and dried before being woven into cloth.

KOHA Beauty also offers a range of soaps, hair care and dental care that are certified cruelty-free and vegan, making them the perfect choice for the environmentally-conscious traveler.

Price: £24.00

Materials: Pineapple fiber

Check out KOHA Beauty (UK)

10. Sea Bags

We love a travel-sized bag that boasts of a functional design feature, like this flat-bottomed cosmetic bag. The design makes it easy for you to place your bag on an airport bathroom counter or tray table in front of your seat without having all its contents roll off and fall on the floor while you try to squeeze in a quick touch-up to freshen up your look.

Sea Bags upcycles used boat sailcloths and converts them into nautical-inspired bags that are both functional and eco-friendly. Since 1999, the brand has managed to save over 700 tons of material from heading to landfills.

Price: $45

Materials: Upcycled sailcloth

Check out Sea Bags

11. Luxtra London

Understated and elegant, Luxtra London’s sustainable makeup bags can easily pass for an evening clutch bag owing to how good they look. We love how these bags come equipped with an elasticised interior pocket that’s perfect for storing your beauty blender or makeup sponges.

Available in gorgeous emerald green, ballet pink and metallic silver hue, these eco-friendly toiletry bags are crafted from PETA-approved vegan leather alternatives like Piñatex® (pineapple-derived leather) and AppleSkin. 

Luxtra is also a certified B Corporation, which means that it also meets high social and environmental performance with transparency in its business practices.

Price: £65 – £95

Materials: Piñatex, AppleSkin 

Check out Luxtra London (UK)

12. The Dharma Door 

Yet another brand with rustic aesthetics at its core, The Dharma Door offers functional and eco-friendly makeup bags crafted from naturally dyed jute canvas fabric. These zip-around sustainable toiletry bags come with handy internal pouches and pockets, perfect for stashing pint-sized makeup essentials and hairpins.

Each bag is hand-sewn by artisans in a small community fair trade production centre in rural Bangladesh. We love that their travel pouches come in matching sets of two sizes, making them ideal for a long trip.  

Price: $31 – $45 AUD

Materials: Jute canvas 

Check out The Dharma Door (AU)

13. Mayan Hands

An ethical makeup bag that can easily fit all of your on-the-go essentials without taking up too much space in your carry-on, the Nella Cosmetic Bag is handwoven using a traditional foot loom technique that’s native to Guatemalans. It also features a recycled denim lining, that’s made from discarded scraps spun with undyed cotton. 

We suggest coordinating it with the matching Nella Tote. 

Mayan Hands works with women from different areas of the Guatemalan highlands and practices fair trade principles in doing business to provide their artisans with a dignified path out of poverty.

Price: $120

Materials: Cotton 

Check out Mayan Hands

14. The Tote Project

A brand with an inspiring mission at heart, all of The Tote Project’s bags are ethically made in India by survivors of exploitation and women who are at-risk. The brand works with artisans at a Fair Trade social enterprise to help empower them.

Manufactured fairly using organic cotton, the brand’s ethical makeup bags are spacious enough to hold your beauty essentials and promise to be just as colorful as your makeup. Each bag features a unique print made from eco-friendly inks and dyes that come with a unique zipper tassel made from upcycled saris.

Price: $22

Materials: Organic cotton

Check out Tote Project

15. OneNine5

OneNine5’s minimalist travel makeup pouches will appease any Type A tendencies with their multi-purpose design that features elastic band slots, mesh pockets, and dividers that are perfect for storing all your beauty essentials in place. 

The outer shell is crafted from recyclable polyurethane and comes internally lined in recycled plastic that’s been certified by the Global Recycle Standard. 

UK-based customers can return their well-used OneNine5 bags back to them (for free) and the brand will either reuse or recycle the materials through their partnership with recycling firm TerraCycle®. Customers who return their well-used items will receive a 15% discount on their next order.

Price: £25.00

Materials: Recyclable polyurethane (plus free send-back program) and recycled plastic

Check out OneNine5

Jharna Pariani is a fashion writer and creative strategist whose work is rooted in honesty and deep observation of the world around her. When she isn’t busy penning down her thoughts, she moonlights as a video editor creating fashion and food reels on Instagram for several brands and influencers

1. Last Object Reusable Products

Last Object is a low waste brand with reusable cotton swabs, cotton rounds, tissue, pads, and laundry bags.

From “LastSwab” to “LastTissue”, the reusable products from Last Object make it easy to help travelers minimize single-use items on the road.

Price: $12+

2. LARQ’s Filtered Water Bottle

An essential sustainable travel gift is this reusable water bottle from LARQ that has a built-in filtration system.

Perfect for world travelers, this bottle comes in two different sizes and each filter can be used for up to two months of use.

Price: $50

3. Insulated Stoneware Travel Mug

Opt for one of these travel mugs for the perfect gift for on-the-go beverage lovers.

Each ceramic mug comes in a variety of hand painted designs and colors. 

Price: $20

4. United by Blue Utensil Kit

This reusable utensil kit has everything a traveler could need to avoid single-use plastic while traveling.

Each kit includes two stainless steel straws with silicone caps, a cleaning brush, and stainless steel spork and chopsticks. 

Price: $24

5. Silicone Stasher Bags Travel 6-Pack

These silicone stashers are not only fantastic sustainable travel gifts, but useful to have on hand for our everyday lives.

The Travel 6-Pack includes various reusable silicone bags in fun colors and sizes. You can use them to easily pack toiletries, protect your phone, and replace the need for plastic bags or take-out containers.  

Price: $89

6. Paravel Travel Set

Sustainability aside, Paravel makes some of the most stylish luggage around. Their carbon-neutral travel sets make wonderful gifts.

All luggage options fit standard airline size requirements, include TSA-approved locks, and are made from recycled, vegan materials. 

Price: $105 – $765

7. Lo & Son’s Edgemont Backpack

If you know someone in need of a backpack, the Edgemont from Lo & Son’s is a perfect eco-friendly gift. It’s carry-on approved with a minimalist design and neutral color.

Made from water-resistant recycled polyester, the 15L travel backpack can even transform into a tote bag. 

Price: $240

8. Thought Organic Cotton Dip-Dye String Bag (UK)

A cute yet practical travel gift idea is this chemical-free, cotton string bag from Thought.

Made from organic cotton, you can choose between blue or pink dip-dyed bags and a neutral black or cream color. This lightweight bag can be used to replace single-use plastic bags while traveling. 

Price: £13

9. Wayks’ Accessories Bundle  (EU)

The Accessories Bundle from Wayks is a perfect starter kit for travel lovers.

It comes with two packing cubes, a shock absorbent cube to protect fragile items, a rain cover with lockable zippers, and a portable strap you can use to attach jackets or bags.

Everything is made from Bluesign-approved recycled fabric.  

Price: €75

10. Dharma Dhoor’s Toiletry Bag (AU)

This beautiful, hand-sewn toiletry bag from Dharma Dhoor is made from natural jute canvas. You can choose between camel, ash, and bone, or mix and match colors.

Each toiletry bag is available in two sizes and includes several internal pouches to secure your smaller items. 

Price: $31 – $55 AUD

11. Sandcloud Towel Bag

This beautiful towel bag is the perfect sustainable travel towel for beach and nature lovers. Made from 100% Organic Turkish cotton, it’s available in four different designs.

Each quick-drying towel is sand resistant and folds up into a bag to make transport a breeze.

Price: $80 

12. Inhala Soulwear Travel Yoga Mat

If you’re trying to figure out eco friendly travel gifts for the active yogis in your life, these beautiful travel mats from Inhala Soulwear are a great choice.

These travel mats are made from recycled rubber and come with an upcycled nylon mat holder. Each mat’s design was created by Indigenous women from the Peruvian Amazon.

Price: $104

13. BioLite’s Power Bank

For tech-obsessed loved ones, a reliable power bank is essential. This sustainable power bank from BioLite will charge your phone quickly, and it’s fully solar-powered.

Each power bank is carry-on compliant, can charge multiple devices, and comes in three different power deliveries to offer different sizes and charge capacities. 

Price: $60

14. Allegorie’s Black Gala Camera Crossbody Bag

A thoughtful gift for travel-loving photographers is this compact crossbody camera bag from Allegorie.

Available in black and rose, this bag is made from plant-based vegan apple leather with no harmful chemicals. It’s perfect for travel thanks to its adjustable straps, pocket design, and petite size. 

Price: $245

15. Golde Superwhisk and Matcha Kit

Golde has the perfect portable kits for wellness enthusiasts. This Matcha kit includes responsibly sourced ceremonial grade Matcha and a small rechargeable whisk to froth a perfect matcha latte anywhere.

If your loved ones don’t love matcha, Golde has several other travel-size kits to make coffee, turmeric, mushroom, or cacao lattes. 

Price: $45

16. Personalized Travel Experiences

A creative eco-friendly travel gift is the gift of experience. If you know what your loved ones like doing, or where they’re going next, look for a tour or experience they’d enjoy and book it for them.

This could be anything — a food tour, photoshoot, hot air balloon ride, or guided hike. 

17. Travel Booking Platform Gift Card or Refundable Getaway

Another zero-waste travel gift idea is a gift card to their favorite sustainable travel booking platform. They can use this to book an experience or transport of their choice. This could be a gift card to their favorite train, bus, or airline operator, or one for travel companies like Tours by Locals, Airbnb Experiences, or Get your Guide. 

If you’re looking for a larger gift for a partner or close friend, why not treat them to a refundable getaway? If you know they want to visit a certain destination, or they’re planning a trip but struggling to cover the costs, this could help. Whatever you book, opt for a refundable or changeable booking so the trip doesn’t go to waste if plans change. 

18. Alltrails Annual Plan

An affordable gift idea for hiking lovers is a membership to Alltrails Pro.

Alltrails lets hikers download maps for thousands of trails globally, share their location with friends and family, and analyze trail conditions before going. If you’re gifting a membership, Alltrails lets you customize the length. 

Price: $36

19. Shine Premium Membership

Shine is a WOC-founded meditation and wellness app aimed at making wellness inclusive and representative.

With a premium membership, users can access daily meditations, learn self-care skills, and take expert-led wellness workshops and courses wherever they are.  

Price: $65 for 1 year

20. Libro.fm Audiobook Bundles

Book-loving travelers will love an audiobook from Libro.fm. You can choose between different credit bundles (one credit is one book) or an ongoing monthly membership.

What’s awesome about Libro.fm is that they partner with independent bookstores. You can even choose to support specific local bookstores with your purchases. 

Price: Starts at $30 for 2 credits

21. National Park Pass

An easy eco friendly travel gift idea is an annual or season pass to their favorite National Park, State Park or other recreational area.

You can choose local or national options like an Annual National Park Pass so they can access the great outdoors year-round. 

Price: $80

22. Nopalera’s Florecito Duo

The Flor De Mayo cactus soap and moisturizing bar are perfect TSA-approved toiletries.

Each vegan bar is handmade using plant-based ingredients like pink clay, nopal, and essential oils and comes in a recyclable tin for easy transport. 

Price: $40

23. Corvus Botanicals’ Shampoo & Conditioner Bundle

Shampoo and conditioner bars are great haircare items for travelers, thanks to their carry-on approved size.

Choose from seven different plant-based, biodegradable bundles, with two size options. The handcrafted bars feature moisturizing ingredients like cocoa and shea butter, lasting over eighty washes. 

Price: $22

24. Radius Toothbrush & Soap Case

Help your traveler friends avoid plastic travel-size toothbrush kits with this reusable toothbrush case from Radius. Made from recycled plastic, it comes in six colors and securely fits most standard toothbrushes.

Pair it with their reusable soap cases to make your own gift set. Each case is biodegradable and compostable.  

Price: $4.50

25. Kind Laundry Soap Sheets Travel Pack

Finding eco-friendly laundry detergent while traveling is harder than you might think but not anymore, thanks to Kind Laundry.

This travel pack comes with six fragrance-free, plant-based detergent sheets in a small zero-waste envelope that won’t add weight to your bag. 

Price: $4

26. Conscious Step Gift Boxes

When it comes to sustainable gift ideas, you can’t go wrong with socks. Conscious Step produces Fair Trade socks made from organic cotton and recycled polyester.

Each gift box donates a percentage of its proceeds to a specific cause so you can choose the bundle most aligned with your loved one. 

Price: $35 – $45

27. Pela Case Card Keeper 

While traveling, it’s not always convenient to carry a purse or wallet with you.

An awesome alternative is this composable card keeper that attaches to your phone case. It comes in seven different colors and can hold two cards securely for easy, on-the-go access. 

Price: 25

28. B.Yellowtail’s Silk Scarves

For a perfect lightweight travel accessory, check out these handmade 100% silk scarves from Indigenous-owned brand B.Yellowtail.

There are several different prints to choose from, all designed by the founder herself. 

Price: $75 – $90

29. Munjoi’s All-Dai Shoe

The perfect sustainable shoe for travelers is the All-Dai Shoe from Munjoi. These unisex shoes come in three neutral colors and can be worn in four different ways to fit most occasions.

The shoe transforms into a sandal, slide, mule, or sneaker and it’s made from a plant-based foam. 

Price: $98

30. tentree’s Travel Hats

For a fun yet essential eco friendly travel gift, choose one of tentree’s hats made from  RWS certified wool, recycled polyester and/or organic cotton.

The brand has baseball caps, bucket hats, and beanies to fit every style.

Price: $25 – $50

Sustainable Swimwear

The first thing you’ll want to pack for Tulum is swimwear. After all, the main thing you’ll do in Tulum is swim in various bodies of water. Choosing sustainable swimwear made from recycled materials (or even natural fibers) helps reduce the demand for fossil fuel-based plastic fabrics.

Check out our list of affordable, sustainable swimwear brands here. 

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Packing reef-safe, eco-friendly sunscreen is essential for a trip to Tulum. You’ll need sunscreen to protect yourself from the hot sun. Sustainable sunscreen is best for the oceans and cenotes you’ll enjoy. Look for a sunscreen that’s plastic-free and mineral-based. 

You can find ten low waste sunscreen options here. 

Beach Towel

If you’re planning to visit the beach regularly, you’ll want to bring a beach towel with you. You can find our favorite sustainable beach towels here. Alternatively, check out one of the local artisan stores in the center if you want to buy something locally. 

Reusable Water Bottle

A great way to reduce your plastic consumption while traveling is to pack a reusable water bottle. In Tulum, and many parts of Mexico, your accommodation may have a water filter. Restaurants will also provide drinkable water. If you bring a reusable water bottle, you can fill it as you go instead of purchasing plastic water bottles.

A fantastic option is LARQ, which will also filter your water. 

Low Waste & Biodegradeable Toiletries

Another packing essential for Tulum is biodegradable and low waste toiletries. Due to the proximity of the ocean, it’s especially important to choose sustainable toiletries that won’t negatively impact the environment. 

EcoRoots has a thorough selection of zero-waste toiletries like safety razors and biodegradable personal care products like shampoo, conditioner, and soap. 

Sustainable Boots 

Chances are you’ll be doing a lot of walking while in Mexico City. While sneakers may be the more comfortable option, you’ll want to pack some more stylish footwear. Mexico City loves their boots, so do as the locals do, and pack your favorite pair of sustainable boots. 

For a great selection of ethical boot brands, check out this list. If you want to shop local, you’re in luck. You can find a nice pair of boots at one of the locally-owned or second-hand boutiques throughout the city. 

Versatile Bag

Thanks to the number of things to do in Mexico City, and its size, you’ll most likely be out all day. 

As such, an easy-to-carry, sustainable travel bag is essential. Avoid bringing bags that don’t fully close. Instead, opt for a backpack or purse that can be completely fastened so your items are secure in large crowds. 

Check out Able or United by Blue for different eco-friendly bags and backpacks. Alternatively, Mexico City has an endless number of markets selling handmade purses and bags. 

Sustainable Rain Coat

If you’re visiting Mexico City outside of April and May, it’s a good idea to pack a raincoat. Mexico City regularly has afternoon showers and sudden thunderstorms. A waterproof jacket will come in handy. 

You can find some of our favorite eco-friendly raincoats here. 

Versatile Clothes

If you’re trying to decide what vacation clothes for Mexico City would be, the more versatile the better. You’ll notice a range of styles and fashions here.

Choose your favorite items that you can dress up and down but don’t be afraid to bring some of your more stylish pieces. You won’t see many people dressed casually throughout the city. 

Zero Waste Lip Balm

The altitude and mountain air in Mexico City are no joke. Your skin will be the first thing to notice it. Bring a thick zero waste lip balm to keep your lips from chapping. 

Find some of our favorites here. 

Activewear

If you’re planning on hiking, attending a yoga class, or running on the beach, activewear is a must. There are several incredible eco-friendly activewear brands to choose from. Many brands make pieces that double as swimwear. 

Check out this list for some recommendations. 

Sneakers or Comfy Sandals

You’ll most likely be doing a lot of walking while in Baja California so sustainable sneakers are a must. These are some of our favorite brands.

If you prefer sustainable sandals to sneakers, you may want to check out this list as well or shop locally. 

Eco-Friendly Sunglasses

You’ll surely experience some sunny days in Baja California so sustainable sunglasses are a must. These sunglasses brands make it easy to protect your eyes and the planet. 

Protective Hat  

If you’re spending the day boat hopping, at the beach, or visiting different vineyards, you’ll want to keep your head shaded from the sun. 

Pack a hat you can wear throughout your trip like these organic cotton caps from Threads 4 Thought. 

Moisturizing Lotion 

The dry, desert climate of Baja California makes lotion an essential item. Choose a zero-waste, lotion to lessen plastic pollution in the area. Look for one that is also made from chemical-free, biodegradable ingredients to avoid harming the natural surroundings. 

You may want to check out Ethique’s zero waste lotion bars which will fit perfectly in your carry-on.

I was surprised by how spacious and comfortable each Getaway House was — they know how to utilize the small space. My favorite part was the comfy bed with a window wall looking straight into the forest. It really opened up the space and made you feel like you were sleeping in nature. I loved having my morning coffee in bed and soaking up the scenery. 

Getaway House is the ideal eco-friendly accommodation, making sustainability comfortable and stylish. They take several measures to conserve resources such as limited hot water and energy-efficient lighting. Each cabin is only cleaned at the end of your stay so you’re encouraged to reuse your towels and bedding. 

I loved getting back to the cabin after spending the day in the city and building a fire. Each house comes with individually portioned fire kits so that you don’t use more firewood or kindling than necessary. Plus, they have a S’mores kit available for purchase which gave the two of us two S’mores each. 

While there are several hotel options in Catskill and the surrounding areas, I can’t recommend Getaway House enough. I would, however, recommend renting a car during your trip to the Catskills, especially if you plan to hike. However, we didn’t have a car during our stay and it was still easy to schedule transportation throughout the Catskills. 

Book Your Stay at Getaway – Eastern Catskills 

Bittersweet Catskill

Right next to Mermaid Cafe, you’ll find Bittersweet Catskill. You don’t want to miss out on this locally run ice cream shop. They make delicious, fresh premium flavors and they also offer vegan options.  

Some of my favorite sustainable stores in Catskill, NY are: 

• Sister Salvage: Salvaged furniture and home goods
• Kaaterskill Market: Sustainable and zero-waste products
• Makersville Consignment: Handmade and upcycled goods
• Corduroy Shop: Recycled textiles and repurposed furniture
• Spike’s Record Rack: Vintage vinyl record store
• Magpie Bookshop: Secondhand bookstore

Eco Friendly Tents

The number one item for a successful camping trip is a tent. Unfortunately, tents are typically made from PVC and coated with flame retardants. Choosing a sustainable tent will help limit your impact on the environment.  

A great place to find a large selection of eco-friendly tents is Vaude. All of their sustainable tents are made from PVC-free, waterproof fabric and coated with silicone. They use DAC aluminum poles and their ground sheets are made from recycled materials.

Vaude has a range of tent sizes to choose from to fit all your needs from backpacking to group camping. Plus, they are a carbon neutral company. 

Check out Vaude Here

Eco Friendly Sleeping Bag 

Another sustainable camping gear necessity is a sleeping bag. Many traditional sleeping bags are made with synthetic materials or Down feathers that aren’t responsibly sourced. Not to mention, they are most likely not ethically manufactured. 

A great company that makes eco friendly sleeping bags is Cotopaxi. They are a certified B Corp, Carbon Neutral, and give back to various social organizations. 

Their Noches sleeping bag is made from repurposed fabric and filled with recycled polyester.

Check out Cotopaxi Here

Sustainable Camping Chairs

There’s nothing better than sitting in front of the fire, roasting some marshmallows, and relaxing in your camping chair. While camping chairs are usually durable and comfortable, they also tend to be made from synthetic materials (i.e. plastic) and coated in toxic chemicals. 

A great sustainable camping chair alternative is the Renewed Bamboo Chair from Snow Peak. Plastic-free, their camping chairs are made from cotton canvas with a bamboo and aluminum frame. 

Snow Peaks products are meant to last a lifetime. They have begun implementing sustainability measures such as carbon offsetting and using recycled materials. 

It’s worth noting that most camping chairs on the market are not fully sustainable. Many companies have made efforts to design more eco-friendly camping chairs, but they still have a long way to go. 

Check out Snow Peak Here

Plastic-Free Headlamp

Having light while camping is essential, so choosing a headlamp that will power you through your trip is crucial. Unfortunately, many headlamps don’t take sustainability into account and are made from plastic and/or still require batteries (leading to e-waste). 

When choosing a sustainable headlamp, look for plastic-free ones with a rechargeable battery. Origin 2 by Eukarya is a great place to start. Their rechargeable, water-resistant head lamps are made from cherry wood and aluminum. 

Check out Eukarya Here

Sustainable Cooler

Coolers are essential for keeping our food fresh and edible throughout our trip. Most coolers however are made from new plastic (sourced from fossil fuels).

One fantastic option is the Hielo 12L Cooler Bag by Cotopaxi. Each one of a kind cooler is made from repurposed leftover fabric. They are handmade and ethically manufactured. Cotopaxi coolers are insulated with repurposed foam, waterproof lining, and an easy to carry side strap. 

Check out Cotopaxi Here

Eco Friendly Camping Stove

Camping stoves often generate waste with hard to dispose gas canisters. Plus, they use toxic fossil fuels like gas and petroleum. Making the swap to a wood burning camping stove is a great solution to this. 

One fantastic option for a sustainable camping stove is the CampStove 2+ from BioLite. This portable wood burning stove uses fire to provide electricity. Each stove includes a USB charger for your gadgets. You can light it with debris from around the camp, like twigs, and cook while charging your phone. 

BioLite is passionate about providing solar power to those without, globally. So far they’ve given power to 3.5 million people. 

Check out BioLite Here

Reusable Kitchenware

Disposable dishes generate unnecessary waste and most of our packaged food options come in plastic. It may seem tricky to pack and eat your food in a low waste way when camping, but it’s easier than you think. 

How? Pack reusable items made from sturdy materials. United by Blue is a one stop shop for finding eco friendly camping dinnerware, cups, and water bottles. They have a variety of bamboo tupperware, silicone sandwich bags, and stainless steel cooking ware and dinner sets. (Remember to use what you already have at home first, though, before buying new dinnerware!)

Check out United by Blue Here

Biodegradable Dish Soap

A camping essential that often gets overlooked is dish soap. Many of us may think we can bring our daily dish soap camping, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. Traditional dish soap contains chemicals that shouldn’t be dumped in the woods, rivers, or oceans. It’s best to choose a non-toxic, biodegradable soap. 

Tangie has a wonderful line of waste free products including their zero waste dish soap bars. Their bars come in compostable packaging and are plastic-free. 

Each bar is made from four natural, biodegradable ingredients, so you can use Tangie’s dish soap outside without hurting the environment. 

Check out Tangie Here

Zero Waste Toiletries

Last but not least for sustainable camping necessities is zero waste toiletries. Just like dish soap, it’s important to prioritize packing non-toxic, biodegradable toiletries when you’re camping. 

Avoid bringing single-use toiletries packaged in plastic that you have to toss out and opt for zero waste options instead when possible.

Here are recommendations for the most common toiletries: 

1. Pay the Fees

Most official campsites and parks have entrance, camping, or hiking fees. While this can unfortunately make these areas less accessible, fees do serve a purpose. 

The fees are used to protect the natural surroundings you plan to enjoy. They ensure facilities are maintained, park rangers are paid, and these beautiful areas stay beautiful. 

Many parks, however, operate on an honor system with little to no regulation. It can be tempting to skip out on paying, but please pay the fee so that these precious spaces can be enjoyed for decades to come. 

2. Stay in Designated Areas 

While it may seem harmless to explore off-trail or to try to find a secret campsite, it may not be sustainable. Campgrounds and natural parks have designated areas for hiking and camping for a reason. 

Staying in designated areas maintains the natural habitat, respects the wildlife, and helps you avoid unpleasant experiences like poison oak. If you’re interested in exploring more remote or off-the-beaten-path destinations, check out the next tip to do so sustainably. 

3. Research Your Location Beforehand 

Before you head off into the woods or the desert, take the time to research your location. Are you going on a rugged backpacking trip? Then make sure you know where you’re going, what you need to bring, what the natural environment is like, and what species are native to the area. 

It’s also a good idea to know the history of the area you’re planning to camp in. Are there any current issues like overtourism or water pollution that you should be aware of? How does the local community feel about tourists camping and hiking in the area? What problems has it posed? 

Once you’ve done your research, you can camp in a way that doesn’t negatively impact the community. 

4. Choose Campgrounds that are Eco-Friendly 

It may seem like all campgrounds should be eco-friendly. After all, they are right in the middle of nature! But, this actually isn’t always the case. It’s important to research what type of facilities your campground offers and how they maintain them. 

If you can, find designated eco-friendly campgrounds in your area but keep in mind that not all eco camps are advertised as such. When choosing a campground, try to find out who runs the campground, what environmental initiatives they are taking, and how they dispose of camper’s waste. 

5. Plan Trips Outside of Peak Season

Peak season is usually during the summertime or dry season, which makes perfect sense. After all, why wouldn’t you want to enjoy the great outdoors during the nicest time of the year? That being said, there’s usually some wiggle room on this timeline so that you’re not camping right when everyone else is. 

Camping is a particularly popular activity in places like California, but guess what? California has great weather year-round. You don’t have to visit June-September to still enjoy the surroundings. 

If you need to camp during peak season, choose lesser-known campgrounds and save the most popular ones for off-season. This will also increase your chances of getting a campsite while lowering costs. 

6. Leave No Trace 

A common saying for hikers and campers is “pack out what you pack in.” Sustainable camping means leaving little to no trace. Campgrounds usually have designated dumpsters for your trash, so please do not litter and dispose of your waste properly. 

If there’s no trash collection in the area, bring your own bags and hold on to them until you’re back in an area where you can properly throw them away. 

When packing up your campsite, check to make sure that the surrounding area is just as it was when you arrived. Ideally, though, avoid bringing things that will generate waste in the first place. How? By following the next tip. 

7. Bring Reusable, Plastic-Free Items

Packing reusable, plastic-free items helps prevent excess trash during your camping trip. Bring your reusable water bottle instead of a plastic water bottle. Check to see if the campsite has a water refill station. If it doesn’t, plan ahead so you have enough water to last the trip. 

Pack items like coffee, tea, snacks, and dry goods, in reusable jars or containers to prevent packaging waste. If you can, make your meals beforehand so that you can also bring them in sustainable containers. 

Shampoo, conditioner, and soap bars are great zero-waste items to bring. Resist buying single-use items like disposable wipes or travel-size toothpaste. Instead, pack the toiletries you already have. 

8. Choose Toiletries & Cleaning Items That Are Environmentally Safe

One of the most important things we can do when camping sustainably is to ensure that our toiletries and cleaning products aren’t harmful to the natural environment. 

When camping, you’ll most likely be brushing your teeth, washing your body, or cleaning your dishes, outdoors. It’s important that these products are truly natural and biodegradable so they don’t pollute the surrounding environment. 

Don’t forget to use the same standards for the things you’re putting directly on your body — especially when it comes to sunscreen that can sweat or wash off into local waterways. 

9. Use What You Have, Rent What You Don’t 

It’s tempting to go out and buy all the latest gadgets and gear for your camping trip, but try to resist this urge!

Unless you’re a regular camper, most of that gear won’t be used, making it an unsustainable purchase. Chances are, you already have the essential items like reusable containers, water bottles, suitable clothing, blankets, pillows, and maybe even a sleeping bag. 

If there’s something you truly need to get, like a tent, or a camping stove, you can rent it. You don’t need to buy these items brand new. Check out your nearby sporting goods store or do a quick Google search to find out where to rent the camping gear you need. 

If you do need something, shop secondhand first! REI has a Used Gear marketplace for all sorts of needs.

10. Pack Sustainable Gear

When deciding what to pack, prioritize your items made from natural fabrics to limit the spread of microplastics and minimize our impact. 

If you own non-synthetic material shoes, activewear, swimwear, or backpacks, move these items to the top of your packing list.