We all know that we need to reduce our waste - the world is literally running out of space for us to dump plastic. It's quite the hot topic, especially single use plastic. If we all make little changes, we can help to reduce the amount of waste piling up in landfills. Even when we travel we can make a huge difference. Here are five simple ways you can reduce your waste when travelling:
1. Use A Refillable Water Bottle
A really simple way to reduce your waste is giving up plastic water bottles. Think how many you use on one trip, why not just use a refillable bottle, like the HydroFlask. And just think how much money you will save on water.
Out and About with the HydroFlask
"What about countries where the water is unsafe to drink?" I hear you ask. Don't worry, I have the answer! There are plenty of options for purifying your water in these countries, such as the LifeStraw Go. Many hotels and hostels have water stations where you can fill up your water bottle too.
2. Think About Your Travel Toiletries
Take a look at your travel toiletries and see how much plastic is there. You can easily swap this out.
Think solid shampoo bars instead of a plastic bottle. This can also be taken on flights as hand luggage, as it's not liquid, so a bonus there! These bars tend to last for ages too, saving you money in the long run.
How about using a bamboo toothbrush instead of plastic? If you change your toothbrush four times a year, think how much plastic you are throwing away throughout your life. Personally, I don't want to do the math! Bamboo toothbrushes do exactly the same job as a plastic toothbrush, so it's an easy swap.
3. Say No
Offered a plastic bag at the shop? Say no. Even better bring your own reusable bag and start a conversation about how bad plastic bags are for the environment.
There's so much you can say no to at home and when you travel. Say no to plastic straws, do you really need a straw to drink? Plastic cutlery? What's wrong with using your hands? Or if you'd rather have cutlery, bring your own reusable. Easy swaps and I'm sure there are many more.
4. One For The Girls
If you haven't already jumped on the Menstrual Cup band wagon, what's stopping you? Seriously. These cups are so much better than the single use tampons and pads. They're small, convenient and discreet. Plus you won't have to worry about finding "feminine hygiene" products when your period's due, you always have it with you.
Extra bonus - think how much money you will save not buying tampons and pads. And you will be free of the tampon tax!
Lily Cup Compact
5. Join A Clean Up
Wherever you travel, keep an eye out for clean up events. These can be beach clean ups, river clean ups, they are quite common events. Doing this will help to clean up the world, albeit slowly but surely and you can be happy that you have done a good deed.
These clean ups are also a great way to meet people. Whether they be travellers or locals, you will meet like-minded people on these events.
