Holidays are meant for sandy toes, sunsets, and snacks, not single-use plastic. But between airport snacks, hotel toiletries, and poolside cocktails, plastic tends to crash the party.

If you’ve ever come home from a trip with more plastic than souvenirs, you’re not alone. The good news? You can reduce your plastic footprint without sacrificing any fun. In fact, going (mostly) plastic-free on holiday is simpler than you think.

Here’s how to pack light on plastic but heavy on good times.

1. Pack Like an Eco-Pro

Think of this as your holiday hero kit - reusables that’ll save you from plastic disasters:

• Reusable water bottle: Hydrate like a champ - many airports now have water stations.
• Travel coffee cup: For those life-saving holiday cappuccinos.
• Reusable cutlery set (or even just a spork!): Perfect for beachside picnics and street food markets.
• Tote bag or foldable shopping bag: Because you will find cute things to buy.
• Refillable toiletry containers: No more hotel mini-bottles - fill your own with your favourite products.

2. Go Solid, Baby!

Solid toiletries are basically magic. They last forever, don’t leak all over your bag, and come plastic-free.

• Solid shampoo and conditioner bars = lush hair, zero waste.
• Soap bars = squeaky clean without the plastic.
• Toothpaste tablets = super space-saving (and kinda fun to use).
• Solid deodorant = smell fresh, plastic-free.

Plus, you’ll breeze through airport security like a pro.

3. Just Say No!

Why not just say:

• “No straw, thanks!” (sip from your reusable cup instead)
• “No plastic bag, I’ve got this one!” (and simply whip out your tote)
• “No cutlery, I’ve got my own.” (plus definitely nicer to eat with)

It’s a tiny habit that feels very satisfying.

4. Snack Smarter

Snacking is essential on holiday. But plastic-wrapped snacks? Not so much.

• Hit up farmers markets or bakeries for fresh, unpackaged goodies.
• Pack your own snacks in beeswax wraps or reusable containers.
• Dine in when you can—it’s usually tastier and reduces waste.
• Got leftovers? BYO container! (Or, let’s be honest, just eat them all. You’re on holiday.)

5. Sunscreen… Without the Rubbish

Sunscreen is non-negotiable but plastic packaging doesn’t have to be.

• Choose reef-safe, plastic-free sunscreen options.
• Use refillable sunscreen applicators or storage pots

Your skin, and the planet, will thank you.

6. Forgive Yourself (and Do Your Best)

Sometimes plastic sneaks in, no matter how hard you try. And that’s okay!
If it happens:

• Recycle what you can.
• Support businesses that take back packaging.
• Donate to clean-up projects if you want to offset your plastic footprint.

The key? Don’t let perfection stop you from making progress.

Now, go forth and adventure (responsibly)!