Single-use items like water bottles, toiletries, and snacks meant to last the duration of your trip often result in more packaging, and thus, more plastic. And it can be harder to keep sustainable habits when you’re not at home and outside your routines. But with a little forethought and effort, it’s possible to travel without plastic—try these tips!
Instead of taking to-go coffees in disposable cups, bring your own cup to the café. Baristas are usually happy to put your drink in your cup.
Grab-and-go snacks are very convenient but result in more packaging. Plane food is a powerful example—every person on the plane gets one individually wrapped cookie or savory cracker and a plastic cup. You can always opt out and bring your own snacks and drinks instead—yes, it is allowed! TSA will not confiscate your snacks, but liquids must still adhere to the 3-1-1 rule for carry-on luggage. And once you’ve passed through airport security with your empty reusable water bottle, you can refill it before your flight.
Plastic water bottles are stocked everywhere, but have you ever considered how strange it is to buy a resource that is often available for free? If you are traveling domestically in the U.S., bring your own refillable water bottle to avoid single-use plastic and fill it up at fountains, cafes, and restaurants; it’s worth noting that in many other countries, single-use water bottles are also made from glass and aluminum, which are recyclable. Editor’s Note: If you’re traveling internationally, the tap water of the country you are visiting may harbor bacteria and pathogens—ultimately making filtered water in single use bottles the only safe water to drink. In cases like this, please prioritize your health and safety.
Travel-size toiletries are another plastic culprit during travel. These are easy to switch out, however; refillable containers are widely available. Transfer your regular products into these containers.
Try to dine in at restaurants instead of eating to-go food. Not only is this a more tailored and immersive experience than a to-go counter, but you will also avoid disposable containers by using the restaurant’s ceramic plates and cutlery. You can also bring your own containers for leftovers.
If you are able, choose accommodations that have sustainability policies—and let them know those policies are why you’re there. Hotels are one of the biggest culprits of single-use goods, so choosing accommodations that have policies to reduce waste is an important action. Some hotels will take leftover soap and reheat and remold them into new bars. Others will wash sheets and towels only when requested to save on water.
When it comes to reducing single-use plastic, every action matters!
