Packing List

Eco-minded essentials for your next trip

By Michele Sponagle

On your next vacation, take along these items designed to be kinder to the environment. From bags to shampoo, we’ve got the goods on how to shop mindfully to help the planet

KOBO CLARA 2E

For reading by the beach at your five-star resort, this travel-sized eReader is ideal. It’s waterproof and has an exterior made from 85 per cent recycled plastic (including 10 per cent ocean-bound plastic like water bottles). The latest Kobo has more storage, longer battery life and Bluetooth wireless technology. Pair it with a protective SleepCover ($34.99) also fabricated from recycled materials.

HAPPY EARS ECO-FRIENDLY EARPLUGS

Tuck a pair of earplugs in your carry-on bag for quieter flights and daytime naps poolside while you soak up the sun. It reduces noise by 25 decibels on average. Made in Sweden, this pair uses recycled plastic trash sourced from the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans. Launched in 2020, the soft earplugs (available in small, medium and large) fit securely into ear canals and are comfortable enough for sleeping.

MATT & NAT TATUM VEGAN BACKPACK

The Montreal-based company is completely vegan and cruelty free. For the last 15 years, it has been creating linings for its bags out of 100 per cent recycled plastic bottles – using about nine million annually. This stylish backpack has plenty of roomy pockets, padded and adjustable straps, and a drawstring. For shore excursions, shopping trips or a night out, it is a fashion-forward accessory you’ll love to own or to gift a special someone.

JACK59 SHAMPOO BARS TRAVEL TRIAL PACK

If you’re trying to fly dry and not bring liquids with you, solid shampoo and conditioning bars are a handy option. Those from Jack 59 don’t use plastic, silicone, sulphates or parabens and come in recyclable packaging. Based in Edmonton, Alberta, the Indigenous-owned company also has a zero-waste production process for its hair and personal care products made with ethically sourced, organic botanicals.