Top 5 Sustainable Travel Finds

Upgrading my bathroom essentials and wardrobe with a sustainable but travel practical mindset has been a major goal for this year. I won't lie, it's been difficult, especially when it comes to soap bars. There's been a-lot of trial and error, now I'm finally compiling lists of favourites/


There's been a lot of learnings:

Bars = no liquid limitations and they're much more packable than odd shaped bottles. If you let them dry sufficiently theres no leaking too.

We all know this, but you pay for quality when it comes to clothing. This year I've finally realised this. While the items I previously bought would have lasted a few years I know just from the quality of new purchases these ones will last closer to a decade if looked after properly, even if you're hiking in them regularly. Investing this money now means you spend less in the long run but you can also take advantage of sales to make it more attainable for tighter budgets.

Four of these brands are UK based which makes me even more happier and means I don't have to import anything which often is more hassle than it's worth. (It also has a larger carbon footprint which could negate any environmental benefits the product may have had)

For skin reference, I have Eczema and during a flare up my skin is quite dry and sensitive as expected, outside of flare ups it's pretty normal.

Ethique

* Find them here
The only non UK based one, yet a worthy shoutout. Ethique were one of the first plastic free companies on the market and all started in New Zealand.

So far, i've tried

• Curlosity Co-wash and conditioner - YES, so hydrated I honestly can't believe it. Doesn't leave any residue. The only thing I wish was different is the size as it doesn't fit in their shower containers which is why I haven't purchased containers yet. (It's also Curly Girl Method approved which makes my life even better)

• Heali Kiwi Shampoo - I like it, but I'm not too sure I love it. The lather is beautiful but will be trying the others. I think I'll look for one a little more hydrating but the quality of the bar, like the conditioner is great.

• Solid + Concentrated Moisturisers - Not for me, especially since my Eczema has flared massively. They're just not enough. The Jasmine and Ylang Ylang scent was amazing though.

• Lime & Ginger Solid Body Scrub - I really like this, I was worried that It wouldn't be as exfoliating like some reviews said HOWEVER, I'd argue it could be too rough. As long as I keep a light hand it's super effective and lasts quite a while.

• Flash Multi Purpose Bar - a godsend for hand washing. Reusable period items, perfect. Delicate items, perfect. Stains, Perfect. This has been a lifesaver for hand washing items not only at home but when away. It's simple to use in any sink, rinses out well and pretty much does the job quickly and hassle free. A single bar storage box would be useful though.

Overall a great company, with even better customer service and product guarantees. The items are also reasonably priced. Hair bars generally cost £12 and lasts approximately 80 washes.

Little Soap Company (Eco Warrior)

Find them here
With an extensive organic range and being Leaping Bunny certified cruelty free. Little Soap Company/Eco Warrior produce great products that all started in the beautiful Cotswolds. They're honestly a staple when it comes to my Eczema flare ups. As i'm 90% certain I have a sensitivity to Limonene/Linalool I can only try a select few - Annoyingly those ingredients are also found in some of my favourite scents.

My favourites are definitely the Avocado which lathers beautifully and smells gorgeous (but not artificially scented), i've really missed great scents since developing *more* sensitivities and my recent eczema flare up. And Organic Oatmeal, It has the same great lather which is extra hydrating and the oats provide a great gentle exfoliation.

They're even Perfect for shaving, I much prefer using these bars now over my Estrid cream which I thought was amazing. Even better no plastic and less product cluttering the bathroom. You can also get a 100% recyclable soap holder with a lid which fits all soaps perfectly and I've yet to have any issues with it opening when thrown into a bag.

Finisterre

Find them here
I found this brand via their collaboration with Dame (Pictured, i'll be speaking about Dame next) and I'm so glad I did.

The Dutson Shirt is the thickest cosiest basic top i've had. Easy to dress up or keep casual. It's perfect for hikes on cooler days with enough space to put thermals on if needed. Their Esam beanie is also the warmest hat I've tried. I picked up the deep green one in the sale and it's been wonderful for the early morning dog walks. Next step will be investing in their gilets for the upcoming winter. I've already given them a quick feel in-store and cannot wait.

Dame

Find them here
When I say I've tried everything they have to offer, I mean I've tried everything they have to offer.

• Organic tampons and reusable applicator - I've not had an issue with these tampons or the applicator and I've had them for almost a year now. I bought a set which has a little pouch and I can easily fit the applicator and 5+ tampons which is super handy for days out. They also offer a Year bundle which is only £32.... Yes £32. Perfect with the cost of living crisis we are in. The last thing we want to have to fork out every month for period products and reusables aren't the cheapest so if you can, I would recommend purchasing the bundle.

• Reusable Pads - Tied for first place with the tampons, They're great for each part of my period. I just wish they sold them in blue individually so I can buy more blue night time ones (and replace the one I think i've lost oops). They come with a dry bag which is great when you need to change on the go and is the perfect size to soak the pads prior to cleaning. (see Ethique flash bar for hand washing)

• Period Pants - I was one of the first 100 people to try these and honestly they need work i've leaked on my lightest days but they're super comfy and perfect as a 'just in case' pair. After talking to the team it seems that they are in the process of remaking these using the feedback they've received.

Parla

Find them here
Again, no tiny plastic tubes that contribute to your liquids. The glass jar is quite heavy, not particularly good when travelling but I just put the amount I need into a smaller travel jar. The little tabs don't crumble when being stored like some others and when you add water to brush they dissolve and foam great. On my recent dentist and hygienist trip, both said that my teeth were perfect. So the formulation is definitely doing it's job and why I'm hesitant to try the 'pro' formula as it doesn't have fluoride in it.

I don't know how to feel about the bamboo toothbrushes. They don't tend to dry out even when in the perfect conditions otherwise they're decent to use but not anything to write home about.


*Affiliated Links but not AD

I'm always trying out new brands so let me know in the comments which brands you enjoy or want to see me give a go.