1. Steripen Water Bottle and Purifier

It’s no secret that using a reusable water bottle saves plastic and is good for the environment. It’s one of the easiest things one can do to reduce waste, especially when travelling. However, just as important is ensuring the water you’re drinking is clean and safe to drink. 

Livingstone uses the SteriPen water bottle and and purifier, which uses ultraviolet light to purify water. When you immerse the lamp in the water, it disrupts the DNA of bacteria, viruses and protozoa, rendering them harmless.

2. Reef Safe Sunscreen

Many of the top sunscreen brands like Coppertone, Sun Bum, Neutrogena and Banana Boat contain chemicals that are harmful to the ocean’s reefs and marine life. When travelling and visiting these incredible ecosystems, it’s our responsibility to do as little damage as possible. Try to find an SPF that uses physical UVA and UVB filters instead of chemical ones. Look for the ingredients: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. 

Nora recommends Badger Balm sunscreen, a women-owned business that strives to protect natural resources and incorporate climate justice into their everyday production. Their products are chemical-free and reef safe.

3. Toothpaste Tabs

“Flying with toothpaste can be messy even if you are allowed to take it on a plane. I switched to toothpaste tabs a few years ago and never looked back,” Livingstone says. 

Toothpaste tabs are not only convenient for travel, but they also reduce plastic usage. These tablets by Bees Butter come in a glass jar and are made from 100% food grade ingredients. Simply place the tablet in your mouth, crush it with your teeth and then brush as normal.

4. Shampoo Bar

Another product that reduces plastic waste is shampoo bars. These are an eco-friendly way to bring along the hair products you need. These shampoo bars by The Earthling Co. are chemical-free and come in six different scents. They also have a conditioner bar, both of which are small and easy to travel with.

7. Collapsible Reusable Coffee Cup

Using a reusable coffee cup saves plastic waste and is always a great thing to carry, especially when travelling. However, most reusable mugs take up a lot of space and are the most practical for travelling. 

“Reusable coffee cups drive me crazy because when you have limited space they take up so much room. I have a collapsible one and am obsessed,” Nora says. She uses the Stojo Collapsible cup, which is made of BPA silicone that is lightweight and perfect for throwing in your carry-on.

10. Smartwool Hiking Socks

One of the best ways to explore this beautiful earth is by walking with our own two feet, venturing into far-off landscapes. For longer hikes, a good pair of socks is absolutely essential for warmth, comfort and blister prevention. (especially on the Camino!) 

Smartwool women’s full-cushion hiking socks from Smartwool are made from 55% merino wool, 12% Nylon, 30% Recycled Nylon and 3% Elastane. Combined, these materials are quick-drying, warm, lightweight and specifically made to fit women’s feet, making them perfect for exploring difficult terrain or staying warm on your neighbourhood’s local trail. (Recommended by Carolyn). 

11. Reusable Travel Straws and Cutlery

When travelling, it’s not only convenient to have your own set of cutlery and straws, but also much less wasteful. This stainless steel travel cutlery by Let’s Go Eco includes three different straws and straw cleaner, a fork, knife and spoon as well as a cotton travel bag. They are durable, easy to clean and perfect to throw in your backpack whenever you need.

12. Baggu Reusable Bag

When exploring a new city or town, it’s always best to carry a reusable bag, just in case you end up purchasing some things along the way, whether it be food, clothing or knick knacks.

Baggu is a sustainable company that creates durable, lightweight reusable shopping bags. Since their beginning in 2007, Baggu has focused on the elimination and minimization of waste in their operations and production processes.

Ideas for those travelling from home 

13. Produce Box that Reduces Food Waste

Being mindful of where one buys and how one consumes their food is one of the most impactful ways an individual can minimize their impact on the environment. Every year, nearly 5 billion pounds of produce goes to waste as it doesn’t meet the cosmetic standards of grocery stores. 

Food Fund was started as a response to food waste in Canada. They take fruits and vegetables that would have gone to waste and deliver them straight to your door weekly. If you’re looking for a way to fight food waste and minimize your impact, Food Fund is an excellent way to do so. They make deliveries to various locations across Ontario.

14. Earthing Mat

For years, ‘earthing’, also known as grounding, has been used as a therapeutic technique that uses electric charges from the earth to have positive effects on one’s body. Traditionally, earthing involves walking barefoot on the outdoor ground, which directly connects the human body with the earth. Though the research is still developing, regular earthing has been shown to have positive effects on one’s physical and mental health.

Earthing Canada has revolutionized modern earthing, making it more accessible to be grounded every day and get the benefits that come along with it. Their products allow one to maintain the physical connection between the human body and the Earth’s stabilizing energy field during periods of work, rest, and sleep.

Earthing’s Universal Mat is their most versatile product, allowing you to connect with Earth’s energy almost anywhere. Set up your mat, plug it in and make bare skin contact with the mat to receive its benefits. (Recommended by Carolyn) 

Note: JourneyWomen readers get 10% off any purchase using code EarthDay22.