April 21, 2022 // By Lois Alter Mark

By Lois Alter Mark Travel Expert April 21, 2022

A Hydro Flask is the best and most stylish substitute for single-use plastics. — Photo courtesy of Hydro Flask

As travelers, we know it’s our responsibility to leave no trace but that can be challenging when we’re carrying along suitcases full of stuff.

Luckily, with scientists touting the urgency of changing our bad habits and with sustainability on everyone’s minds, more and more companies are making it easier to choose travel products that are reusable, made of recycled materials or that benefit nonprofits working to protect the planet.

Here are 10 environmentally friendly products that will make your trip better and help ensure there will still be a world to explore.

Hydro Flash Water Bottles — Photo courtesy of Hydro Flask

Switching to refillable bottles instead of single-use plastics is one of the easiest and most effective ways to really make a difference, and no one makes better – or better-looking – refillable bottles than Hydro Flask. Easily recognizable by their happy little jumping person icon, the stainless steel bottles come in a variety of rich hues and are vacuum-insulated to keep drinks hot for 12 hours and icy cold for a full day.

They’re available in lots of different sizes and styles, but this 32-oz Wide Mouth is a bestseller that is at home on a mountaintop or red-eye flight.

Paravel Aviator Grand Checked Luggage — Photo courtesy of Paravel

This gorgeous bag is not only sustainably made but it’s carbon neutral – a world-first in the luggage industry. It also boasts a recycled polycarbonate exterior, recycled zippers, a lining made from 21 upcycled plastic water bottles, vegan leather details and wrapped steel handles, and an aircraft-grade recycled aluminum handle.

It’s roomy enough to hold more than a week’s worth of clothes plus four pairs of shoes, and it comes with a removable laundry bag and TSA-approved locks. Oh, and did we mention that it’s gorgeous?

Hunter Killing Eve Tall Chasing Boot: Mawson Creek — Photo courtesy of Killing Eve, Sid Gentle Films, AMC Networks

Hunter has been making boots for more than 160 years, and their craftsmanship, philanthropy and commitment to sustainability (they even recycle your rubber rain boots for free) are timeless. These handcrafted beauties are water-resistant, featuring multi-directional tread for traction and mud-release, as well as vegan, recycled Sherpa shearling linings to keep feet cozy while wicking away moisture.

Hunter has lots of styles for both men and women, but fans of the award-winning TV series, "Killing Eve," will definitely want these, which were worn by Villanelle (Jodie Comer) in the final two episodes. Luckily, the boots will last longer than many of the show’s characters.

Fjällräven Tree-Kanken Backpack — Photo courtesy of Fjällräven

This beloved Swedish brand has added to its line of iconic backpacks with this sustainable style made from a unique Pine Weave fabric using certified wood raw material. It features thoughtful details fans have come to expect from Kanken backpacks, including a reflective logo, flat front pocket and a strap for fastening gear underneath. Unisex and made for everyday use, it’s likely to become a favorite.

Stojo Collapsible Cup — Photo courtesy of Stojo

Designed by dads determined to end disposable culture, just one of these cups saves 23 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions, 281 gallons of water and 16 pounds of solid waste every year. Conveniently sized for drinks from a certain well-known coffee establishment, the silicone cups collapse to practically nothing so you can keep them in your purse, your carry-on, your glove compartment and your backpack.

Air-tight and leakproof, they fit in all standard cup holders and come in dozens of colors, so you can get one for every member of the family.

Rothy's RS01 Sneakers — Photo courtesy of Rothy's

Rothy’s makes the best travel shoes for everyone. No matter which style you choose, you can rest assured they’ll be super comfortable and as good for the environment as they are for your feet. Knit with the brand’s signature thread, which is spun from plastic water bottles (they’ve already kept 100 tons of ocean-bound marine plastic out of waterways), they’re flexible, supportive and machine washable.

You can even squish an extra pair into a corner of your carry-on. Available in lots of colors and color combinations, these bestselling men’s sneakers won’t even have to be broken in to immediately feel like your old favorites. (Don’t worry, ladies. The women’s shoes are equally amazing.)

Trek Bontrager Circuit WaveCel Road Bike Helmet — Photo courtesy of Trek Bicycles

Biking is an environmentally friendly alternative to driving that, according to scientists, could save an estimated 6 to 14 million tons of CO2. It also reduces noise pollution and the use of harmful chemicals – and it’s good for your own mental and physical health.

Whether you’re riding to work or for fun, in the city, on a trail or on gravel, Trek ensures your brain will stay safe with this exclusive high-tech helmet. It’s lined with WaveCel, a collapsible cellular structure that exceeds safety standards, elevating its level of protection – and your desire to keep riding.

LEUS Parker Coffin Outdoor Eco Towel — Photo courtesy of LEUS Towels

This great-looking towel is made with post-consumer recycled fabrics and is antimicrobial, moisture-wicking and fast-drying, making it perfect for travel. LEUS is all about sustainable sourcing and production practices and, to date, the brand has saved more than 136,000 pounds of plastic from waterways and landfills.

Created in partnership with pro surfer Parker Coffin and inspired by his own surfboard art, this lightweight towel is soft and absorbent and helps ensure that future generations will still have oceans to surf.

Baxter Wood Trawler Raincoat — Photo courtesy of Baxter Wood

Fully waterproof with a lining made from 22 recycled plastic bottles, this classic fisherman-style raincoat is a travel necessity. It’s strong but breathable and features a button snap closure, drawstring hood and hand-welded seams stress-tested for longevity. It comes in a variety of colors, whether you’re looking for neutrals or a pop of cheery yellow or red, and is available for both men and women.

Plus, you can get a $30 credit toward your purchase if you trade in your old worn-out raincoat, which Baxter Wood’s needleworkers will stitch, fix and donate to someone who can use it.

Colgate CO. to Go On-The-Go Anticavity Toothpaste Tabs — Photo courtesy of CO. by Colgate

Get rid of those wasteful tubes that leave a mess all over your suitcase and the planet and try these fluoride-packed toothpaste tablets instead. They come in an earth-friendly glass jar that can be repurposed or recycled when you’re done.

To use, just wet your toothbrush (Colgate’s new eco-friendly TLC Toothbrush has a reusable aluminum handle and replaceable brush heads) and crush the tab between your teeth. Brush like normal, then rinse. As if that’s not enough to smile about, for every CO. by Colgate product purchased in 2022, the company will donate $1 to The Cybersmile Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to fighting online bullying and abuse.

Lois Alter Mark is an award-winning travel and lifestyle writer who also writes regularly for Forbes and Reader's Digest. She writes about everything from luxury cruises and spas to quirky restaurants and street art. A former New Yorker, Lois now lives in San Diego where she's turned into a weather wimp and is still searching for a good slice of pizza. 

Read more about Lois Alter Mark here.

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