Finding the perfect travel gift can be a challenge, especially when you’re buying for veteran voyagers used to journeying with minimal baggage. Here are a few ideas for sustainable presents that can help travel enthusiasts preserve the beauty of nature, support local economies, or connect with foreign cultures. From birthdays to Christmas, the following gifts are ideal for those looking to avoid wasteful practices and maximise their travel experience.

 

Reusable Travel Bags

Affordable and versatile, travel bags are a staple for explorers aiming to stay organized. Luckily, the internet offers numerous green alternatives to ziploc for storing small objects. One option is Flip and Tumble’s zip top travel pouches, made from 100% recycled plastic. They are machine washable and come in packs of five, with each pouch sized differently to fit shoes, clothes, toiletries and electronics.

 

Travel Towel

Whether you’re diving off cliff, taking a dip in the ocean, or simply showering after a long day, an all-purpose towel will come in handy. The best travel towels are extra-absorbent and quick-drying, and take up minimal space during storage and transport. Having a good multipurpose towel can also cut down on unnecessary water costs from frequent washing and dying. Packtown’s ultralight microfiber towel is a good accessory for the minimalist who enjoys venturing off the path for a swim.

 

Water Bottles

Adventuring across the globe can’t be done without a steady source of hydration, but typical water bottles can be cumbersome. The reusable “Anti-Bottle” by Vapur solves the problem of  transportability; it’s made of a flexible, BPA-free material, and can be folded and flattened to fit nearly anywhere. For those traveling to areas where clean water may be scarce, there’s the Lifestraw: a bottle with a built-in filter that eliminates waterborne contaminants. Lifestraw also matches the purchase of every bottle by providing a child in need with clean drinking water for one school year.

 

Toiletries

Maintaining hygiene on the road can be done without buying items full of ingredients that harm local ecosystems. Those planning on spending time under the sun might prefer Sunscreen Butter from All Good, formulated with organic materials that won’t damage reefs or other aquatic life. Do remember, however, that where possible, sunscreens only complement clothing; do wear a wide brimmed hat and cover up with a sun protective shirt.  For cleaning tasks, Dr. Bronners offers an all-in-one product that serves as every type of soap imaginable, from shampoo and body wash to laundry/dishwasher detergent. Dr. Bronner’s product is 100% percent eco-friendly: the soap bottle is made from recycled plastic, and the soap itself contains only organic and certified fair trade ingredients.

 

Donating to a Cause  

If you’d like to give a gift that goes beyond material consumption, consider donating to an organization or an objective that a loved one is passionate about, such as preserving endangered species, or funding small businesses in developing economies. Frequent travelers might also book with Responsible Travel; for every journey booked, their Trip For a Trip program buys a day trip for an underprivileged child.