Samantha van Egmond

Samantha van Egmondhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/about/contributors/samantha-van-egmondSamantha van Egmondhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/travelling-cheaply-good-for-planetInstead of feeling limited by a tight budget, consider how being thrifty can have a positive impact on the environment and communities we visit.2023-05-02T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/travelling-cheaply-good-for-planethttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>While hitting the road on a shoestring budget might not sound like the most enjoyable approach to seeing the world, it can actually be a great way to encourage more sustainable travel habits. From the modes of transport we take to the activities we participate in, here are just a few ways being a frugal traveler can have a positive impact on people and the planet.  </p> <ul> <li><span><a href="#1">Off-season travel supports ecosystems and local economies </a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#2">Cheaper accommodation can be sleek and sustainable </a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#3">Simple adventures encourage richer connection </a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#4">Go vego and BYO to cut costs and emissions </a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#5">When it comes to transport, think slow and low </a></span></li> </ul> <h2 id="1">Off-season travel supports ecosystems and local economies</h2> <p>There are plenty of perks to traveling over the quieter months in addition to significant savings, like avoiding the crowds and taking advantage of more availability in sought-after destinations. However, heading on an off-peak adventure also benefits the communities and places we visit, particularly when they are economies that rely heavily on tourism. Traveling to a region during a time when trade is scarce can help to keep local businesses afloat when they might otherwise go for months without an income.</p> <p>Off-season holidays mean you're not contributing to over-tourism, therefore reducing pressure on natural resources and giving nature a chance to regenerate. Less rubbish to be disposed of and more water to go around can ease the strain on the environment, while those traveling by car will likely notice a decrease in traffic and air pollution when hitting the road off-season.</p> <p><strong>TIP – try seeking out '<a href="/explore/europe/italy/what-to-see-and-do-in-lecce">second cities</a>' or lesser-known destinations that have just as much to offer without the 'tourist hotspot' price tag.</strong></p> <h2 id="2">Cheaper accommodation can be sleek and sustainable    </h2> <p>Budget hotels and hostels have come a long way in recent years, with many now designed to offer both stylish and sustainable lodging that caters to families, professionals and backpackers alike. Having a smaller overall footprint than larger hotels means modest accommodation is often inherently more eco-friendly, while common spaces such as kitchens and laundry areas allow resources to be shared. If you'd prefer privacy, there are plenty of <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/why-small-stays-are-a-greener-choice">cabins, tiny houses and wilderness huts</a> that might be more your style.   </p> <p>Avoiding the well-known chains for locally owned accommodation can also mean your dollars are going back into the local economy. For example, a homestay can support the livelihood of an entire family, and a small-scale hotel that's a little bit further from the town center might grow its own produce and use renewable energy. At the end of the day, it pays to do some research before you book to ensure your money is spent responsibly, no matter your budget.</p> <p><strong>TIP – try <a href="https://fairbnb.coop/">Fairbnb</a>, an ethical alternative to Airbnb that supports sustainable community projects, or consider house-swapping as a low-cost, environmentally-friendly option if this is available to you</strong>. </p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/people/travel-cheaply-body-image.jpg" alt="Two backpackers sitting in front of mountains" /><figcaption>A couple backpacking in the mountains. Photo credit: Getty Images/Jordan Siemens</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="3">Simple adventures encourage a richer connection</h2> <p>Making travel dollars go further means getting creative with your choice of activities. Walking or <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/putting-cycling-first">cycling around a new city</a> are great ways to discover the sights and tread lighter along the way, while camping is a sustainable vacation option that also delivers on adventure and that much-needed connection to nature.</p> <p><strong>TIP – save money before you even leave the house by borrowing the items you might not have a lot of use for later, such as a backpack, yoga mat or hiking boots.</strong></p> <p>Activities such as walking, cycling and setting up at a campsite allow us to see and experience more than if we were sitting in a car or a high-rise hotel room and encourage us to engage with local people and cultures, not to mention the health benefits of staying active and spending time outdoors.</p> <p><strong>TIP – many volunteering opportunities such as conservation work, fruit picking, or joining a WWOOFing program offer free board and meals and enable to you to connect with the local community while learning a new skill.</strong></p> <h2 id="4">Go BYO to cut costs and emissions</h2> <p>Meal expenses are a key factor in budgeting for travel, and, with a little planning, it's an area where you can also avoid unnecessary waste. Packing your own lunch in stainless steel food containers when you're heading out for the day means you won't be tempted to grab a pre-packaged sandwich on the go, while carrying a reusable water bottle can save countless plastic bottles from landfill.</p> <p><strong>TIP – many cafes offer a discount for those who bring their own coffee cup, so it's a win-win.</strong></p> <p>Much like at home, eating a vegetarian diet while traveling benefits both the earth and our grocery bill, with farming and processing animals for meat generating 20 times the greenhouse gases of vegetables. Go for the vegetarian option wherever possible and opt for seasonal markets over fancy restaurants to benefit the health of your body, your bank balance and the planet. Eschewing meat and dairy will also make your meals easier to digest, which is always a plus when you're on the road.</p> <h2 id="5">When it comes to transport, think slow and low</h2> <p>How we get to our destination is one of the most important decisions impacting our carbon footprint, and there's no denying the high price of air travel on our wallets and on our planet. You might have found yourself Googling train timetables to avoid the cost of a last-minute flight, however, there's more to love about a rail pass than the price. <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/the-return-of-train-travel">Traveling by train</a> is one of the most energy-efficient modes of transport, and it's also one of the most scenic.</p> <p>As a rule, the shorter the distance you travel, the lower your carbon footprint, although covering fewer miles doesn't mean missing out on experiences. On the contrary, staying put for longer can lead to a richer experience and understanding of a place. When you're not focused on getting to your next destination, you'll have more time to chat to locals, seek out traditional culture and cuisine, and get a better sense of what it feels like to live in and be a part of a community.</p>Getty Images / SolStock 0 A woman traveler on a boat under palms

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/10-eco-friendly-travel-gadgets-for-greener-explorationsFrom harnessing solar energy to embracing sustainable materials, these clever, green tech products will power you up without draining the planet.2024-10-31T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/10-eco-friendly-travel-gadgets-for-greener-explorationshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Traveling responsibly starts before hitting the road – what we pack requires just as much consideration as <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/the-destinations-turning-green">the places we visit</a> as far as our impact on people and planet. Not only does a well-thought-out checklist save us lugging around extra weight, but it also allows our carbon footprint to be lighter while we explore the world. This doesn't mean limiting ourselves to the bare essentials, but rather thinking carefully about how the items we pack – and purchase – impact the planet throughout their lifecycle.</p> <p>Opting for <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/eco-friendly-toiletries-to-take-on-your-travels">products that use sustainable materials and minimize plastic</a> is a great start, but there are plenty of further ways we can make better choices, particularly when it comes to the everyday gadgets we rely on to make life easier and more enjoyable. Seek out brands that offer free repair, reuse, and recycle programs, support businesses that give back through social and environmental initiatives, and take advantage of products that employ solar energy.</p> <p>We've rounded up some of the best eco-friendly gadgets that are not only clever and convenient but also clean and green, allowing you to travel in style while having a positive impact at the same time.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#pad">Our Pure Planet Bamboo Wireless Charging Pad </a></li> <li><a href="#mouse">Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse</a></li> <li><a href="#charge">Cygnett ChargeUp Explorer </a></li> <li><a href="#bags">Bellroy Digital Nomad Set</a></li> <li><a href="#straw">LifeStraw</a></li> <li><a href="#filters">Urth Lens Filters</a></li> <li><a href="#speaker">Marley Get Together 2 Mini Bluetooth Speaker</a></li> <li><a href="#app">Klima App</a></li> <li><a href="#light">MPOWERD Luci Pro Series Outdoor Light</a></li> <li><a href="#headphones">Urbanista Los Angeles Solar Noise Cancelling Headphones</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="pad">Our Pure Planet Bamboo Wireless Charging Pad</h2> <p>Switching to products made from bamboo, which is both biodegradable and compostable, is increasingly easy, with everything from cutlery to toothbrushes now widely available in this fast growing and naturally renewable material. <a href="https://ourpureplanet.com/" target="_blank">Our Pure Planet’</a>s wireless charging pad is 100% carbon neutral, offering a slim, lightweight design and 15W of charging output that will keep all your Qi-enabled devices powered up, plastic-free.</p> <p>RRP AUD $59.99</p> <h2 id="mouse">Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse</h2> <p>Many of the bigger tech companies are ramping up their use of recycled materials, making it simpler than ever for consumers to choose more responsibly when bamboo and other biodegradable materials aren't an option. Microsoft's <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/d/microsoft-ocean-plastic-mouse/8xh06gbzm3nd/mcvg?activetab=pivot:overviewtab" target="_blank">Ocean Plastic Mouse</a> is an innovative example, featuring a shell made from 20% recycled plastic that has been recovered from oceans and waterways. It connects to your computer via Bluetooth, with a single battery lasting up to 12 months.</p> <p>RRP USD $28.00</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/travel-gadgets/ocean-mouse.jpg" alt="The Ocean Plastic Mouse, a computer mouse made from placic recovered from oceans and waterways." /> <figcaption>The Ocean Plastic Mouse. Image credit: Microsoft</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="charge">Cygnett ChargeUp Explorer</h2> <p>Harness the energy of the sun while you're out enjoying nature by taking advantage of a growing number of solar-powered products on the market, starting with this versatile power bank. <a href="https://www.cygnett.com/products/8-000-mah-power-bank-with-solar-panels" target="_blank">The ChargeUp Explorer</a> packs a punch with three detachable solar panels that provide up to three charges for your smartphone, while bonus features include a built-in LED torch and a second USB port, meaning you can charge your tablet and phone at the same time.</p> <p>RRP AUD $99.95</p> <h2 id="bags">Bellroy Digital Nomad Set</h2> <p><a href="https://bellroy.com/" target="_blank">This B Corp Certified company</a> prides itself on its rigorous environmental practices, offering an expansive range of tech accessories that are not only stylish and practical but also responsibly made and long-lasting. While <a href="https://bellroy.com/bundles/digital-nomad-set#slide-0" target="_blank">this sleek set</a> including a tech kit and laptop sleeve might not technically be a gadget itself, it will certainly help to keep your cords, dongles, and accessories safe and secure when your office is anywhere and everywhere.</p> <p>RRP USD $89</p> <h2 id="straw">LifeStraw</h2> <p>When it comes to gadgets that help to reduce plastic use, the <a href="https://lifestraw.com/" target="_blank">LifeStraw</a> range is high on the list. This ultralight, ingenious device works to purify water by removing 99.9% of bacteria with its long-lasting membrane microfilter, with each device making up to 1,000 gallons (4,000 litres) of water safe to drink. Having one of these on hand will be especially useful if you're travelling to places where drinking the tap water isn't an option, saving you time and money as well as saving countless plastic bottles from ending up in landfill.</p> <p>From USD $19.95</p> <h2 id="filters">Urth Lens Filters</h2> <p>If you're the type of traveler who always has a camera in hand, <a href="https://urth.co/" target="_blank">this eco-conscious brand</a> will most likely have something for you. Their <a href="https://urth.co/collections/lens-filters" target="_blank">wide range of filters</a>, made with premium materials and designed to be low-impact, come with a lifelong guarantee, exemplifying the ethos of 'buy less, buy better'. Additionally, every purchase contributes to Urth's reforestation program, with five trees planted per lens filter. The brand offers a range of high-quality camera accessories including straps, lens adapters, and carry bags.</p> <p>Filters from USD $29 / AUD $39</p> <p><em>Looking to travel more responsibly? Find out why <a href="/travel-insurance">getting travel insurance</a> is part of being a good global citizen.</em></p> <h2 id="speaker">Marley Get Together 2 Mini Bluetooth Speaker</h2> <p>Wood can be a great option when it comes to utilizing natural materials and reducing plastic, and it’s an even better choice when its FSC-certified. This <a href="https://www.thehouseofmarley.com/get-together-2-mini-bluetooth-speaker" target="_blank">stylish speaker</a> is just that – <a href="https://www.thehouseofmarley.com/" target="_blank">House of Marley</a> uses only sustainable materials across its range of speakers, earbuds, headphones, and accessories – offering an earthy, organic look with up to 15 hours of battery life, all delivered in 100% recyclable packaging. The company also gives back through its global reforestation program.</p> <p>RRP USD $169.99</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-wiser/mini-speaker.jpg" alt="The Marley Get Together Mini Bluetooth Speaker made from wood and other natural, sustainable materials." /> <figcaption>The Marley Get Together 2 Mini Bluetooth Speaker. Image credit: House of Marley</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="app">Klima App</h2> <p>There are plenty of fantastic apps packed with tips to help us travel more responsibly, from supporting ethical brands and businesses to getting on board the sharing economy. One that covers a wide range of bases is <a href="https://klima.com/" target="_blank">Klima</a>, an easy-to-use, B Corp Certified app that lets you calculate your carbon footprint and offers personalized tips to reduce your impact through lifestyle changes, with ideas on everything from eating habits and shopping to transport and energy use.</p> <h2 id="light">MPOWERD Luci Pro Series Outdoor Light</h2> <p>For a gadget that can take a bit of rough and tumble, you’ll love <a href="https://mpowerd.com/products/pro-series">this waterproof, shatterproof, collapsible solar light</a>. Perfect for camping, hiking, or even to have on hand in case of a power outage, this durable and lightweight lantern offers up to 50 hours of light following 14 hours in the sun. <a href="https://mpowerd.com/" target="_blank">The New York-based company</a> is also involved in more than 700 non-profit partnerships, supplying life-changing clean energy to communities around the world.</p> <p>RRP USD $44.95</p> <h2 id="headphones">Urbanista Los Angeles Solar Noise Cancelling Headphones</h2> <p>The world's first <a href="https://urbanista.com/collections/solar-powered/products/los-angeles" target="_blank">self-charging headphones</a> are as sustainable as they are stylish, using advanced green technology to charge constantly when exposed to light. Fuelled by Powerfoyle, inspired by the natural principle of photosynthesis, all forms of light – both indoors and outdoors – are transformed into clean energy to offer virtually unlimited battery life. Perfect for strolling the streets enjoying your favorite travel playlist while the sun keeps you charged up all day long.</p> <p>USD $199</p>Getty Images / AleksandarNakic 11319658970 Getty Images A woman checks her smartphone while camping in the wilderness.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/pack-your-bags-reduce-your-travel-footprintThese simple suitcase additions will help you maintain your eco-friendly habits on the road.2020-08-05T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/pack-your-bags-reduce-your-travel-footprinthttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Even the most eco-conscious among us can find it hard to maintain our green habits when we hit the road. These must-pack items will keep you on the right track, and <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/how-to-only-travel-with-hand-luggage">help you pack</a> lighter.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#essentials"> Eco-friendly essentials </a></li> <li><a href="#lightly">Why it pays to pack lightly </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="essentials">Eco-friendly essentials</h2> <h3>Filtering water bottle</h3> <p>Avoid contributing to the estimated one million plastic bottles bought around the world every minute by packing a refillable water bottle, preferably one that's stainless steel and/or BPA-free. You'll often find filtered water taps at <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/how-green-is-your-accommodation" title="How to Find a Truly Eco-friendly Place to Stay">hotels</a> and airports for on-the-go refills, and if you're traveling to a place where there might not be access to clean water, Grayl’s range of purifying water bottles remove bacteria, viruses, parasites and microplastics on the go.</p> <h3>Plastic-free cutlery and straws</h3> <p>Traveling and takeaway food go hand-in-hand, with plastic cutlery being one of the biggest examples of single-use plastic. Enjoy street eats responsibly by packing a set of utensils made from a biodegradable material such as bamboo or beechwood. Straws are also one of the worst environmental offenders – used for a mere few minutes, they take hundreds of years to break down – so have a reusable stainless-steel option on hand.</p> <h3>Reusable coffee cup</h3> <p>If you're a coffee drinker, it's likely you already own a KeepCup or similar reusable cup that you take to your local barista. This is an important habit to uphold when you travel, with more than 500 billion coffee cups disposed of each year. Some cafes offer a discount to customers who bring their own cup, saving you precious travel dollars.</p> <h3>Solar charger and light</h3> <p>Harness the energy of the sun while you explore the outdoors – a solar-powered charger comes in handy on nature-based adventures where there are no power outlets, or to give your phone a quick top-up throughout the day. If you plan to camp, a solar-powered light in a collapsible design will make an ideal travel companion.</p> <h3>Reusable food containers and snack bags</h3> <p>Stainless steel jars with leakproof lids are great for portable meals and storing leftovers, plus they're virtually indestructible. Take a couple when you head <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/a-guide-to-ethical-eating-on-the-road" title="Eating Ethically on the Road">out to eat</a> and ask vendors to fill them up instead of using their disposable, non-reusable containers. Additionally, swap zip-lock bags for a reusable silicone food pouch that is just as good at keeping your snacks fresh.</p> <h3>Eco-friendly toiletries</h3> <p>The benefits of a few simple swaps to your personal care routine can really add up. From <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/eco-friendly-toiletries-to-take-on-your-travels">sunscreen to shampoo</a>, do your research and know which ingredients to avoid instead of buying products just because they are labeled 'eco-friendly' or 'natural'. Check that products don’t contain toxic chemicals and are packaged in biodegradable materials wherever possible.</p> <h3>Reusable shopping bags</h3> <p>There is no excuse to accept a <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/how-to-reduce-plastic-use-while-you-travel" title="How to Use Less Plastic When You Travel">plastic</a> bag, especially when it's estimated one trillion of them are used and discarded worldwide each year. A humble reusable tote is easily foldable, takes up very little space and will prove invaluable, whether it's for grocery shopping, a trip to the beach or to use for laundry. Pack a sturdy canvas carryall as well as a mesh produce bag for fruit and veggies.</p> <h3>Portable washing bag and laundry bar</h3> <p>Washing machines use a lot of water and energy, and coin laundries are not always easy to come by. A good option is a Scrubba wash bag, a tiny, portable 'washing machine' that keeps your clothes fresh and clean. Don't forget to throw in a plant-based laundry bar, powder or detergent and a travel clothesline.</p> <h2 id="lightly">Why it pays to pack lightly</h2> <p>Taking a minimalist approach to packing not only makes you feel more organized and mobile, it can also reduce your greenhouse gas emissions. “If every Finnair passenger takes one kilogram less of luggage,” says Arnaud Michelin of Finnair, “we can save one to two million kilograms of fuel in a year; enough to fuel 20 flights between Helsinki and Tokyo.” Here are some tips to lighten your load and your eco-footprint.</p> <h3>Choose the right bag</h3> <p>An easy way to avoid overpacking is to use a smaller bag or suitcase – you won't be tempted to throw in all of those what-if items as you'll only have room for the essentials.</p> <h3>Keep clothes neutral</h3> <p>Limit yourself to simple pieces that can be thrown together effortlessly and mix and matched. Stick to classic colors such as black, gray and navy, which also do a good job of looking cleaner for longer!</p> <h3>Pack multifunctional pieces</h3> <p>Jackets with zip-off sleeves, liners and hoods can adapt to all weather conditions. A Turkish towel doubles as a sarong or blanket, while a food storage container can be used as a cup or bowl. A buff is perhaps the ultimate multi-tasker, acting as a face mask, headwear, scarf, or scrunchie as required.</p> <h3>Downsize your toiletries</h3> <p>Decant hair and body products into small, reusable bottles before you leave home, and look for double-duty products – a shampoo bar can be used as a body wash, while coconut oil is a great all-rounder for skin, hair and removing makeup.</p> <h3>Borrow what you can</h3> <p>Avoid packing anything that will only be used a few times, such as a hairdryer, yoga mat or hiking boots. Many of these items can be rented or borrowed from friends or fellow travelers.</p>Getty Images / RgStudio 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/eco-friendly-toiletries-to-take-on-your-travelsPacking for a trip? These natural and ethical personal care products are better for you and the planet. 2020-08-04T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/eco-friendly-toiletries-to-take-on-your-travelshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>These simple swaps will help ensure your travel toiletries are healthy and harmless – for you, and the planet.</p> <h2>1. Shampoo bars</h2> <p>As many as <span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">80 billion plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles are disposed of around the world every year</span></span><span data-contrast="auto"><span>, many of which end up in our oceans. If you want to be a more <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/travel-choices" title="Why the Travel Choices You Make Matter">responsible traveler</a>, olid bars are a waste-free alternative – try </span></span><a href="https://ethique.com/"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">Ethique</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto"><span>, a B Corp-certified company graded with the highest of social and environmental standards, whose solid beauty bars can be stored in a jar, tin or beeswax wrap.</span></span></p> <h2>2. Chemical-free skincare</h2> <p>The harsh chemicals found in many moisturizers and cleansers are toxic to you and the environment. Do your research and find out which ingredients to avoid – products labeled as '<a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/how-green-is-your-accommodation" title="How to Find an Eco-Friendly Place to Stay">eco-friendly</a>' or 'natural' products aren't always what they claim – as well as seeking out biodegradable packaging wherever possible.</p> <h2>3. Reusable muslin face washer </h2> <p>Ditch the plastic-packaged face wipes – made from polyesters and polypropylene that can take decades to break down – and pack a lightweight muslin cloth that can be used with soap and warm water to clean away everyday impurities. Or use biodegradable wipes.</p> <h2>4. Microplastic-free exfoliators</h2> <p>The tiny beads found in face and body scrubs are too small to be captured in wastewater treatment systems, washing straight into the ocean where they harm marine life. Avoid polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and look for natural alternatives like salt, sugar and coffee.</p> <h2>5. Natural deodorant</h2> <p>Sweating regulates your body's temperature and is a natural detoxification process we shouldn't be trying to stop. Trade in antiperspirant for a deodorant that uses natural ingredients such as baking soda to help absorb moisture and neutralize odor.</p> <h2>6. Fabric face mask</h2> <p>Social distancing is likely to be with us for some time to come, but a reusable cloth face mask can provide some protection to you and those around you. Make your own or buy a few cloth masks to take on your travels, and wash them regularly.</p> <h2>7. Bamboo toothbrush</h2> <p>One of the easiest ways to reduce plastic waste is by swapping your plastic toothbrush for one made with bamboo – once your brush needs replacing, just remove the bristles and recycle or compost the handle.</p> <h2>8. Non-toxic toothpaste</h2> <p>Eco-friendly toothpaste packaging can be hard to come by, however, a step in the right direction is to choose natural formulas that effectively clean your teeth with ingredients such as baking soda, spearmint and tea-tree oil.</p> <h2>9. Plant-based floss</h2> <p>Most dental floss is made from synthetic materials such as nylon and is dispensed from a plastic case. Look for alternatives created from sustainable bamboo, charcoal fiber or wax-coated silk, which often come in a cardboard box or glass jar.</p> <h2>10. Eco-friendly menstrual products</h2> <p>Using a menstrual cup or reusable cotton sanitary pads can save you hundreds of dollars on disposable pads and tampons. Another waste-free option is <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-cope-with-menstruation-while-traveling">period</a>-proof underwear such as Thinx, which can be washed and reused, are ideal for traveling, and take up very little space.</p> <h2>11. Biodegradable cotton buds</h2> <p>Replace plastic cotton buds with those that have bamboo or paper can simply be thrown into your organic waste or composted, and usually come in biodegradable packaging.</p> <h2>12. Natural insect repellent</h2> <p>One downside to the great outdoors is the creepy crawlies, but luckily there are hard-working natural sprays that use antibacterial essential oils such as citronella, tea tree and eucalyptus rather than harsh chemicals to keep bugs at bay. Unfortunately, if you’re traveling in countries where malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases are present, a DEET-based <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/sunblock-or-insect-repellent-first">repellent</a> may be necessary.</p> <h2>13. Plastic-free razors</h2> <p>Investing in a stainless-steel safety razor will save you a considerable amount of money over time, not to mention significantly <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/how-to-reduce-plastic-use-while-you-travel">reducing plastic</a> waste. A good quality safety razor will last a lifetime if looked after – only the blades need replacing.</p> <h2>14. Reef-safe sunscreen</h2> <p>Protect our marine ecosystems as well as your skin with a <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/7-ways-to-become-a-better-and-greener-diver">sunscreen</a> free of oxybenzone – this common chemical is proven to damage coral reefs. Eco-friendly sunscreens are becoming easier to find, however, some labeled 'reef-friendly' still contain oxybenzone so check the ingredients carefully. </p>Getty Images / SolStock 0 man using bamboo toothbrush