Traveling necessitates careful planning, and one of the factors most travelers consider these days is environmental sustainability. This includes packing eco-friendly toiletries for all trips and journeys. According to a survey published in the New York Times, 69% of travelers want to make more sustainable travel choices. This article aims to provide information about eco-friendly toiletries to pack for your next journey, based on numerous research and reviews.
The growing awareness about global sustainability led to the innovation in the toiletries industry. The traditional toiletries, which are usually disposable and packed in single-use plastic, have been replaced with long-lasting, eco-friendly alternatives. While being great for the planet, these options are light, compact, and travel-friendly.
Firstly, one should consider eco-friendly dental products. Rather than plastic toothbrushes, consider bamboo alternatives, like those offered by The Humble Co., Brush with Bamboo, and Bmbu. These cuts down on plastic waste, and bamboo is a sustainable material that decomposes naturally.
When it comes to toothpaste, choose Tablet toothpastes. Brands like Bite and Crush & Brush offer these tablets that are effective, convenient for travel, and produce no plastic waste. Additionally, they meet TSA standards and do not require the usual plastic quart bag.
Secondly, consider shampoos and conditioners that do not come in plastic bottles. Ethique and Lush make shampoo and conditioner bars that are TSA-friendly, eliminating the need for those quart-size zip-top bags. These bars last for an impressive number of washes, sometimes outlasting two to three bottles of conventional liquid shampoos.
For body and facial care, we recommend eco-friendly soap and skincare bars like those from Friendly Soap and Beauty Bar. They are usually made from natural ingredients, SLS, and paraben-free, which are excellent for the skin and the environment.
Men and women alike can contribute to sustainability by switching to metal razors. The traditional disposable plastic razors contribute significantly to the landfill. Brands like Muhle, Merkur, Parker, and Edwin Jagger offer durable and stylish safety razors which are both eco-friendly, and provide a closer shave compared to disposable razors.
Deodorant sticks are another eco-friendly toiletry that is travel-friendly and known for their all-natural ingredients. Instead of aerosol cans, they come packed in cardboard tubes that are 100% compostable. Brands like Native, Schmidt’s, and Ethique are great choices.
Similarly, consider switching to reusable cotton rounds instead of single-use cotton pads for cleaning your face or removing makeup. Brands such as LastObject and Marley’s Monsters offer high-quality, machine-washable rounds that take up minimal space in your suitcase.
For menstrual needs, consider menstrual cups like DivaCup which are made of medical-grade silicone and reusable, or period panties like Thinx and Modibodi that are washable and reusable. They are both eco-friendly, cost-effective, and take up minimal space in your travel pack.
Another must-have item is a travel-size reusable bottle that you can refill with your preferred lotion or sunscreen. These are lightweight and comply with TSA regulations.
Opting for an eco-friendly approach when packing toiletries for your next journey will not only cut down on plastic waste but can also save you money in the long run. Moreover, companies are increasingly making their products more sustainable, ensuring that you will find high-quality products that meet your travel and lifestyle needs.
Remember, every sustainable choice we make counts towards a healthier planet. By choosing eco-friendly toiletries, we can all play an active role in preserving our environment. So pack these essentials for your next journey and travel responsibly.
