With the increasing awareness about climate change and the impact that human activities have on the environment, it is no surprise that more and more people are starting to become eco-friendly. As sustainable practices and green living becomes a trending topic, so too does the idea of eco-friendly travel.
For the environment-conscious traveler, every aspect of their journey is meant to have as little footprints as possible. From their means of transportation to their choice of accommodation, everything is intentionally selected to be sustainable and ethical. An often-overlooked part of eco-friendly travel, however, is the traveler’s wardrobe. It is equally crucial, and sustainability should be extended to the clothes we pack for our trips.
Eco-friendly clothing is made from sustainable materials with sustainable practices. These clothes are beneficial because they not only decrease waste and pollution but are often durable and practical, making them perfect for travel. This article seeks to guide the eco-friendly traveler in crafting the ideal sustainable travel wardrobe.
What is Eco-Friendly Clothing?
Eco-friendly clothing refers to garments made from sustainable materials and ethical practices. These clothes are designed to minimize waste and harm to the environment, making them a great fit for the conscious traveler.
Eco-friendly clothes are made from natural materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, and recycled fibers. They are produced with less water and energy, and without harmful chemicals and dyes. Furthermore, companies that manufacture these clothes consider the societal impact, ensuring fair trade and ethical labor practices.
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Clothing for Travel?
Choosing eco-friendly clothing for travel not only helps support sustainable practices and reduce carbon footprints, but there are other benefits that the eco-friendly traveler can enjoy:
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Durability: Eco-friendly clothes typically tend to be more durable than their synthetic counterparts due to the high-quality materials used. This makes them perfect for travelers, as they’ll be able to withstand the demands of travel wear and tear.
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Versatility: Sustainable brands often design versatile clothing pieces. Travelers will be able to pack lighter and make a variety of outfits from a few key pieces, all while reducing their carbon footprint.
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Comfort: Natural materials used in eco-friendly clothing are often more comfortable than synthetic fibers. This adds to the traveler’s comfort during long hours of travel.
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Healthier: Eco-friendly clothes are void of harmful dyes and chemicals. Therefore, they are healthier to wear, which is especially valuable during travel when you want to stay as healthy as possible.
Must-Have Eco-Friendly Clothes for Travel
Building an eco-friendly wardrobe for travel isn’t as daunting as it seems. Here are some categories of clothing that the green-conscious traveler should consider:
Eco-Friendly Tops
Look for versatile tops made of organic cotton, linen, or bamboo. Companies like Patagonia and People Tree offer an excellent selection of eco-friendly tops perfect for layering and mix-matching. These tops are breathable, comfortable, and will last for many trips.
Consider having a lightweight sweater or cardigan made from sustainable wool or cashmere, which will provide warmth and coziness during colder weather or long flights.
Eco-Friendly Bottoms
For bottoms, look for durable travel pants made from sustainable materials like recycled polyester or organic cotton. Brands like prAna and Cotopaxi excel at creating quality sustainable pants perfect for trekking, sightseeing, or lounging.
A versatile skirt or dress made from eco-friendly materials could be a festive addition to your travel wardrobe. The brand Reformation is known for its stylish and eco-friendly dresses and skirts – perfect for a dressier occasion or a comfortable day exploring a new city.
Eco-Friendly Outerwear
Travelers going to colder climates would want to invest in eco-friendly outerwear. Look for jackets and coats made of recycled materials or responsibly down-sourced. Patagonia is a popular brand that offers sustainable outerwear, which keeps solar heat and body warmth in, making them ideal for colder destinations.
The North Face used to have a range of ‘Renewed’ clothing- repaired outerwear that offered a sustainable choice for consumers. Even though the line doesn’t exist now, the brand is known to prioritize sustainability in its clothing lines.
Eco-Friendly Shoes
Eco-conscious travelers should also opt for eco-friendly footwear. Brands like Allbirds and VEJA offer sustainable shoe options made from recycled and natural materials. They offer lightweight, comfortable, and durable shoes suitable for various activities.
Taking Care of Your Eco-Friendly Clothes
To extend the life of your eco-friendly clothes, here are some tips:
- Wash only when necessary to conserve water and maintain the quality of the clothing.
- When washing is required, use cold water and eco-friendly laundry detergent.
- Air dry to reduce energy usage.
- Repair instead of replacing whenever possible.
Though it may seem small, choosing an eco-friendly wardrobe for your travels can make a significant impact. It not only contributes to reducing waste and pollution in the fashion industry but also supports fair trade and ethical labor practices. Embrace sustainability in your travel wardrobe, and be the change you wish to see in the world. Remember, even the smallest of efforts can cumulate to bring about a big change in preserving our environment. The journey of a thousand miles, after all, begins with a single step. So, let that step be the start of your eco-friendly journey.
