10 Gift Ideas for Eco Conscious Travellers

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The holidays are just around the corner! 2020 has been particularly hard for anyone with a strong sense of wanderlust. Check out these great gift ideas for the eco-conscious travellers on your list…and help them dream of future adventures!

Reusable drinking straw

Single use items are one of the biggest sources of plastic pollution. Eliminate the need for disposable straws with a compact reusable straw.

Reusable water bottle

Show off your style and cut down on plastic bottle waste with a reusable water bottle. Lots of varieties are available, but SIGG aluminum bottles and Nalgene plastic bottles are always popular.

Solid shampoo and other toiletries

Not only do solid shampoos, conditioners, soaps and other toiletries cut down on the waste from plastic bottles, they make getting your carryon through security that much easier. Many companies manufacture solid shampoos and other products, though one of my favorites is Lush. Or this option from Ethique offers trial sizes of multiple of their solid shampoo and conditioners.

Leave No Trace

This travel series highlights exotic, yet eco-responsible, destinations to help inspire future trips! The first season is available for free to Amazon Prime members.

Reusable quart sized bag

TSA regulations still require liquids in carry-ons to be contained in a clear, quart sized bag. This usually means having to pack (and eventually discard) a plastic sandwich bag. Try this reusable option instead.

Bamboo toothbrush

While toothbrushes are reusable, they need to be switched out on a regular basis which results in a large volume of discarded plastic. Instead, try a bamboo toothbrush…and these even come with biodegradable travel cases to match!

Reusable shopping bag

Whether it’s a morning at the farmer’s market or a day at the beach, this light, compact, reusable bag is ready to help cut down your reliance on single use plastic bags.

Eco friendly journal supplies

Record your travels with eco-friendly stationary and supplies. Such as this recycled and sustainable notebook, pencils with seeds that you can plant after use, or reduced plastic pens.

Collapsible Reusable Coffee Cup

Have your coffee on the go without the waste of disposable coffee cups! And this model collapses down for easy packing.

E-Gift Cards

While gift cards might seem like a less than personal gift, you’re actually giving the recipient the ability to pick out exactly what they want. And you’d be surprised where you can purchase gift cards! While stores and web retailers are obvious choices, consider options like airlines, hotels, home rental companies such as Airbnb, museums, tour groups, and Etsy (for handmade goods). The choice of an e-gift card is even more environmentally responsible. If you really need a physical gift to give, consider printing off the e-gift card and placing it in a festive (recyclable) holiday card.