How to Cut Down on Plastics When Traveling

The last decade was an eye-opener when it came to the real problem that plastic is having on our environment. We saw countries and citizens around the world taking action to cut down on plastic use. 

But what about when you travel? Trial size toiletries, plastic cups at hotels, ziplock bags for TSA screening – the list goes on and on. Some countries (and even some local US states) have banned the use of plastics, so be sure to check your destination before getting on that jet plane.

So what can we as travelers do to minimize our impact on the beautiful destinations we visit and reduce plastic waste? 

---

- Top 5 Ways You Can Help When Vacationing -

​Luckily – it’s actually pretty easy! When the whole world jumps on board with solutions, we can implement small changes to reduce our plastic waste AND end up saving money and the planet in the long run!

1. Bring Your Own Re-Useable Water Bottle & Insulated Drink Cup
   Most of us have re-useable water bottles these days and for some reason, we don’t bring them when we travel! It’s a super simple switch with a lot of reward, both for your pocketbook and the planet. If you want to go a step further, grabbing a water bottle that contains a filter can make life even easier as you can use most water sources to refill and won't have to sacrifice water quality. Insulated drink cups go without saying – why even bother using flimsy little plastic cups on vacation when you can have a sturdy insulated cup with way more room for coffee or cocktails PLUS it keeps your beverage at the perfect temperature!
   
   
2. Skip the Plastic Bags & Zip-Locks
   More and more nations are adopting bans on plastic bags, but if that isn’t enough of a deterrent, consider that other countries may not have the same kind of recycling facilities that we are lucky enough to enjoy here. An easy way to play your part in keeping the world beautiful is to simply swap out plastic bags for dirty clothes/shoes for a cheap set of packing cubes – added benefit, you can keep everything compartmentalized and organized. Zip-locks are quickly becoming a no-no as well, so I recommend investing in a sturdy clear bag with a zipper that can be re-used for travel.  
    
3. Recycle BEFORE You Leave
   Let’s be real – a lot of us buy new items prior our vacation, whether it be for a special occasion we’re celebrating abroad or just something new and fun to use or wear. Remember to open packages and unwrap items of their packaging before you leave to recycle in your own recycle bin. You will keep your waste impact low abroad where they may not have the same means to recycle on your behalf, PLUS you'll have more room to pack strategically.
   
   
4. Pack Re-Usable Straws
   Most places have banned plastic straws at this point and if they haven’t, you can bet they likely will soon. While you may have seen that there are some great plastic straw alternatives available such as bamboo and pasta (yep, really!), odds are that international hotels and resorts won’t be introducing this expense just yet. The best and easiest thing to do is simply pack your own metal or bamboo straw that can be used over and over again – even better if it comes with your fancy new insulated drink tumbler! 😉
   
   
5. Stop Buying Travel Size Toiletries
   Invest in a small travel kit containing clear travel friendly containers which you can simply fill with your own products at home. Not only will you save money, but you can stick with using the products that you know and love instead of having to use a different product which your hair, skin, and body may not be used to.

These are only a few of the ways that you can help minimize your use of plastic when traveling and keep these wonderful destinations beautiful for years to come – as well as, save some money to put towards your next trip!

If you’re interested in finding out about other ways that you can contribute to being an eco-conscious traveler or need help finding the next perfect destination for your next adventure - just Book your consultation or call (913) 244-9195 today!

Experiences Await...
#experiencesawait #destinationshd