Traveling offers an opportunity to explore new cultures, recharge, and create lasting memories. But our adventures often come with a hefty environmental cost. From flights to accommodations, our journeys can contribute to carbon emissions and pollution. This gift guide features a selection of climate-conscious travel products, so that gift giving is kind to both the people you care about and the planet.
Luggage that makes a difference
Though it’s a little pricy, Paravel’s Aviator suitcase and carry-on set is 100 percent carbon-neutral. The company offsets the carbon emissions associated with sourcing, assembly, shipping, delivery, and the estimated emissions from the customer’s first flight. Product pages also provide transparent measurements of the production impact so you can make an informed purchase. The 2-piece set is entirely made of recycled materials that are primarily sourced from discarded water cooler tanks and CD jewel cases.
Books to fuel long travel days
Long flights and car rides can be a drag. Make the most of your travel time with these engaging and educational reads. What If We Get It Right? by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson offers an optimistic vision of community-driven solutions for a hopeful climate future. Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmer explores Indigenous ecological knowledge and practices, which promotes a sustainable relationship between nature and humans. This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate by Naomi Klein dives into the tension between unregulated markets and a growing climate crisis.
Eco-friendly essentials for every trip
Packing your toiletries can be a hassle, but the CALPAK Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag makes it a breeze. Made from recycled materials, including six recycled water bottles, this eco-friendly bag helps reduce waste while offering functionality. The design includes multiple compartments to keep your beauty essentials organized and easily accessible, and its hanging feature means you can keep everything tidy, even in the smallest hotel bathrooms or the corners of your tent.
Portable power on-the-go
There’s nothing worse than a dead phone when you’re exploring a new destination. The BLAVOR Solar Charger Power Bank is a solar-powered charger designed to clip onto your backpack or purse, ensuring you’re always connected, whether you’re hiking in the mountains or wandering through a city. It offers wireless charging, USB-C input/output, and a standard USB output for versatile charging options. And, with its solar panel, you can harness the power of the sun to recharge it while you’re on the move.
Sustainable style
Travel wardrobes can be tricky—how do you pack light and look stylish? The answer: clothing rentals. Before buying a whole new wardrobe for your next adventure, consider gifting a subscription to services like Rent the Runway or Nuuly. These platforms let customers borrow clothing for a monthly fee, whether they are everyday staples or a trendy item. Rent the Runway estimates that each garment rental has a 24% reduction in water usage, 6% reduction in energy consumption, and 3% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to purchasing a new item.