Six tips for reducing your plastic waste on holiday

Oct 15

Taking a holiday is a wonderful way to experience a new place and culture, but it can have a negative impact on the environment if you’re not careful. With 60% of holidaymakers reporting that sustainable travel is important to them, it’s clear that we’re becoming increasingly aware of the risks. So what exactly can we do to ensure our holiday experiences are kinder to the planet?

One way that we can make a significant, positive difference is by reducing our plastic waste. It’s not always easy, but when it comes to protecting the planet, making these small changes is worth it.

Pack only the essentials

It can be easy to get carried away with shopping for your trip when you’re excited to go away. Whether you find yourself tempted to buy a whole new wardrobe or want fresh everyday essentials to use while you’re away, it’s best to avoid any unnecessary purchases.

Plan exactly what you’ll need to pack plenty of time in advance so you’re not rushing to purchase the essentials right before your trip. Remember, the less plastic you purchase, the less plastic you’ll eventually need to throw away. Likewise, make sure your luggage is kept within your airline’s weight limit if travelling by plane, so that you don’t have to throw any items away at the airport.

Use reusable containers

Try to use reusable containers for any items you absolutely do need to bring on your holiday. For example, rather than buying new shampoo and other toiletries which will inevitably mean buying more plastic, you could put a small amount of what you already have at home in a secure jar. Alternatively, if you don’t already have containers at home, you can purchase refillable travel bottles and pots to decant your toiletries into – these can be used for multiple trips, so are worth the investment.

Similarly, it’s a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle for use throughout your trip, and containers to keep a packed lunch in, so you don’t have to buy packaged items from the shop.

Eat and drink locally

One of the best parts of going on holiday is getting to explore all the new flavours of your chosen destination. Make the most of it by choosing to dine in local restaurants – not only will it make for a more authentic food experience, but you’ll avoid the disposable plastic packaging that often comes with takeaway food.

In addition to this, small eateries often serve local, seasonal produce. Try to look into how a restaurant sources its ingredients when choosing where to eat, as a shorter supply chain often means less plastic waste.

Book sustainable accommodation

If you’re able to, try to choose sustainable accommodation options that do their bit to minimise waste. For example, hotels that don’t provide single-use toiletries, which will inevitably be thrown away after each guest has checked out. Similarly, some resorts may provide buffets or sit-down dinners, which are a better alternative to those with vending machines and small snacks for purchase.

Do plenty of research to find the accommodation that’s right for you, and be wary of greenwashing when assessing its eco credentials. It’s good to be mindful of the various supply chains and practices that go on behind the scenes at big hotels and resorts when considering how much plastic they waste.

Choose eco-friendly souvenirs

It’s nice to bring something home from your holiday, but unfortunately, the kinds of small trinkets you’ll usually find in tourist and souvenir shops are often made with plastic. These items don’t really serve a function, so they’re often thrown away after the novelty of having them has worn off.

If you’re able to, purchase more eco-friendly souvenirs, like edible items that aren’t wrapped in plastic. You could also choose items like locally made soap bars, which serve a purpose and won’t have to be thrown in the bin.

Dispose of waste properly

Of course, there will be times when you do need to dispose of plastic. While it’s not ideal to purchase single-use plastic products, your health and safety should always come first – so be sure to purchase essentials like sunscreen or water if you find you’ve run out while you’re out and about exploring.

You can still make a difference by disposing of these items responsibly after use. Recycle any items that state that they can be recycled, and avoid leaving rubbish behind no matter where you are. The worst thing you can do for the environment is leave your plastic in a natural space, where it’ll be harmful to local wildlife and ecosystems. For a top tip, consider taking your plastic waste home with you if possible, and repurposing it for use around the house.

A holiday that’s kind to the planet

So long as you explore mindfully, you can have a wonderful time on holiday while limiting your impact on the environment. Reducing your plastic waste is a great place to start, so be sure to stick to these helpful tips during your next trip away.

Written by Jane Jackson

Jane is a sustainability advocate who is passionate about making eco-friendly living accessible to everyone. She enjoys travelling and sharing practical tips on reducing waste while exploring new places.