I love traveling. But I have learned over the years, less is more. Lugging around heavy bags filled with things you will never use makes no sense. There is nothing more carefree then to be able to pack or unpack in minutes but still feel you have all your essentials, particularly products you love.
You're already Zero Waste at home...Must you carry this on while enjoying yourself traveling?
The short answer is absolutely yes. I mean why wouldn't you? Traveling is a time to try things you don't ordinarily do. We are in a new city, maybe a new country. It's an opportunity to step out of our comfort zone. This should involve new activities, new foods, and new people, but not our basic commitment to zero waste. Don't be enticed by those teeny tiny hotel bottles of shampoo, conditioner, lotion and mouthwash that get used once and thrown away. We should use our own reusable container for water and not the single use plastic water bottles. Reusing our towels (like we would at home) to cut back on excessive water use to wash them. We are entitled to pamper ourselves. We deserve it. But it can be done without raising havoc on our environment.
What are the benefits of zero waste traveling?
SPACE SAVING: By opting for solid toiletries instead of liquids, you can save a significant amount of space in your luggage. For example my travel sized solid shampoo and conditioner bars last well over a week and take up minimal room in your bag. Traveling with fewer (or no) liquids also saves space. Those large plastic bottles that you might take back home with you take up a lot of room. Smaller "trial size" plastic bottles take up less room but then typically get tossed to be put in the landfill.
NO TSA HASSLES: Instead of worrying how much liquid you can take with you on a plane, or forgetting just where you put said liquids (are they in my checked luggage or my carry on?) you can just use solid alternatives and relax. With natural non toxic ingredients that are kind to your skin and hair, it is a win win.
HELPS REDUCE OVERALL WASTE: By using reusable containers for toiletries and opting for solid products, you can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste generated during your travels (as well as trash reduction in general). Plastic bottles are a major contributor to pollution, especially in oceans and waterways. Making the switch to zero waste alternatives can make a real difference.
Traveling zero waste may require some adjustments to your routine, but the benefits are well worth it. Enjoy your travels and take pride in how your can see and share the world without diminishing it's beauty.
