The raw beauty of nature is breathtaking. It makes one feel connected to something greater than us. If you're someone who spends a significant amount of time in our natural environment, then you know the great outdoors is rapidly changing. Waste, pollution, habitat destruction, drought, rising sea levels, etc., alter the balance of our natural surroundings.
Related blog: What is eco-tourism?
When purchasing outdoor and travel bags, go-to heavy-duty recreational gear, which is linked to the textile sector (a major polluter), can leave a heavy carbon footprint. As consumers, we can change this narrative by using our purchasing power.
For those of us who enjoy the outdoors and believe in sustainable travel, exploring the great outdoors will require a strong backpack to carry your belongings. Lucky for us, there are amazing eco-friendly backpack brands on the market.
What is Eco-friendly Travel Gear?
Sustainable or eco-friendly gear may meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Crafted with environmentally friendly materials such as certified organic cotton.
- The manufacturing brands adhere to high social and environmental standards, and may also participate in projects that give back. For example, Terra Thread backpacks are made of organic cotton, and manufactured in Fair Trade Certified factories. At Terra Thread, we also help donate meals with every purchase through Feeding America.
- Supply chain ethical production and transparency.
- Free of harsh chemical pesticides, dyes, GMOs, etc.
- Sustainable packaging.
- Fair wages for farmers and employees.
- Have certifications such as GOTS and Fair Trade.
What Are the Best Eco-friendly Backpacks for Ethical Travelers?
One of the best ways to avoid/lower your carbon footprint is by using the products you already have. However, when you need a new product, going for products made of natural fiber helps lower your carbon footprint.
Earth BackpackThis everyday eco-friendly backpack draws inspiration from mother nature and boasts contemporary designs. The main compartment of the Earth backpack is accessible with ease thanks to smooth lead-free metal zippers. The bag also has:
- Internal sleeve fits 13" – 15" inch laptop
- Internal hanging pocket
- Large zippered external pocket
- Two external water bottle pockets
With its minimalist and multipurpose attributes, it effortlessly tailors to an explorer's lifestyle and is the perfect environmentally friendly backpack for outdoor pursuits. From strolls to camping vacations and hiking expeditions, the Earth Backpack is a necessity for eco-friendly travels!
Other Eco-friendly Gear for Sustainable Travel
You've come looking for robust, easy on the eye, and environmentally friendly bags to carry on your travels. So, we want to give you more options in case you're looking for items other than backpacks. We've put together this trio selection for ethical travel. Hopefully, it helps you further in choosing the most ideal option for your adventures!
The most functional gear we'd like you to take a look at is the Bumi duffle. It's sturdy and excellent for carrying all your clothing and travel accessories.
This can be your pick if you want a stylish and spacious bag (56L capacity) for carrying travel essentials, from business and camping trips to fun weekend getaways. If you're looking for a smaller duffle bag, you can check out our Aarde Eco-Friendly Gym Bag!
Toiletry bags are an essential travel tool to keep all of your personal care products for your journey organized.
These bags are spacious enough to fit all of your toiletry products with ease, including hairbrushes, toothbrushes, shaving cream, razors, and more! They also come in several colors that match your duffle or gym bag!
This tote can be used as a handbag or as a travel bag, and it excels in both contexts. It is a fantastic choice if your travel plans include exploring places on foot.
The strong double-pull straps allow convenient transportation of belongings either on the shoulder or in hand. Further, the lovely color varieties make it easy to satisfy anyone's preference. If your travels include ample walking, this tote bag will not disappoint! And try our fanny packs for handsfree traveling.