Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity | Traveling Essentials
Hello Everyone,
I hope all is well! In today’s episode of the Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity series we will be discussing all you need for travel in this elevated & eco-friendly packing list.
Travel is one of life’s greatest luxuries, but nothing throws off a trip faster than overpacking, forgetting key items, or relying on products that don’t align with your values. Whether you’re taking a weekend city escape, a month-long backpacking journey, or a quick business trip, your travel essentials should keep you organized, comfortable, stylish, and low-waste.
Here’s my curated list of travel must-haves that keep me ready for anything—from flight delays to last-minute dinner plans—without weighing down my suitcase or my conscience.
1. Luggage That Works as Hard as You Do
Your suitcase isn’t just storage—it’s your portable closet, office, and beauty counter.
Carry-On Spinner with Expandable Compartments – Perfect for avoiding baggage fees and zipping through the airport. Look for recycled polycarbonate or aluminum options for durability and sustainability. I’ve listed three options from least to most expensive. I persoanlly have had my Away Luggage fir years and it has yet to fail me. However, I understand that it’s nice to treat yourself.
Personal Item Tote or Backpack – Choose something with padded laptop sleeves, water bottle holders, and a luggage pass-through strap.
Packing Cubes – They turn chaos into order, helping you separate outfits, sleepwear, and laundry. Bonus: keeps customs inspections neat. The ones below I found out through the influencer Clarke Peoples and since they helped me pack for six weeks in my carryon I had to list them for you all.
2. In-Flight Comfort Kit
Make every seat (even the dreaded middle seat) feel first-class.
Silk or Organic Cotton Eye Mask – Gentle on skin, blocks out harsh cabin lights.
Lightweight Travel Blanket or Shawl – Doubles as a scarf or beach wrap.
Reusable Water Bottle – Fill it after security; insulated ones keep drinks cold for 12+ hours.
Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earplugs – Save your sanity from engine hums and chatty neighbors.
Compression Socks – Keep circulation flowing and legs feeling light during long flights.
3. Beauty & Wellness On-the-Go
Travel should refresh you, not dehydrate your skin or compromise your self-care.
Solid Shampoo & Conditioner Bars – TSA-friendly, plastic-free, and long-lasting.
Refillable Travel Bottles – Keep your favorite skincare and haircare close without the excess packaging.
Multi-Use Balm – Works as lip balm, cuticle cream, and emergency highlighter.
Travel-Sized SPF – Non-toxic mineral sunscreen that’s reef-safe.
4. Clothing Essentials
Think versatile, wrinkle-resistant, and layer-ready.
Neutral Base Layers – Tank tops, t-shirts, and lightweight long sleeves in breathable fabrics like organic cotton, linen, or merino wool.
One Elevated Outfit – For spontaneous dinners, theater nights, or photoshoots.
Packable Rain Jacket – Compact but reliable in unpredictable weather.
Shoes That Can Do Double Duty – A comfortable pair for walking, one for evenings out.
5. The Digital Survival Kit
Stay connected and powered up no matter the destination.
Universal Travel Adapter – Covers US, UK, EU, and AU plugs.
Portable Power Bank – Keeps your phone alive through long excursions.
Offline Entertainment – Download books, playlists, and movies before you leave Wi-Fi.
6. Documents & Security
A trip isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how smoothly you get there.
Travel Wallet or Pouch – Holds passport, cards, boarding passes, and emergency cash.
Digital Copies – Store secure backups of important documents in your email or encrypted storage.
RFID-Blocking Card Holder – Protects against digital pickpocketing.
AirTags or Bluetooth Trackers – Slip one into your suitcase, backpack, or wallet for peace of mind when traveling.
7. Sustainability Staples
Travel can leave a heavy footprint—unless you plan ahead.
Collapsible Reusable Bag – Perfect for groceries, markets, or beach days.
Travel Utensil Set – Skip single-use plastics on the go.
Mini Laundry Kit – A biodegradable detergent strip and sink stopper mean you can rewear clothes without hotel dry-cleaning fees.
8. Accessories
It’s the little things that make travel both stylish and stress-free.
Sunglasses with Hard Case – Protect your eyes from UV rays and keep lenses scratch-free.
Travel Jewelry Case – Compact, padded, and perfect for keeping your jewelry safe, untangled, and organized.
Silk Scarf (Optional) – Works as a head wrap, outfit upgrade, or lightweight travel wrap.
Final Thoughts
The best travel essentials are the ones you actually use—again and again. Every trip teaches you what’s truly necessary, what’s dead weight, and what turns a standard travel day into a smooth, elevated experience.
Pack smart. Travel light. Stay aligned with your values. ✈️
