Sustainable Travel Products
When it comes to traveling sustainably, it's important to consider the products we use during our journeys. By opting for eco-friendly and sustainable travel products, we can minimize our environmental impact and promote a cleaner and greener future.
Eco-Friendly Kids' Products
Traveling with kids often requires additional products and supplies. Fortunately, there are various eco-friendly options available to cater to all ages. Companies like EarthHero offer a wide range of non-toxic kids' products that promote sustainable living. From organic cotton clothing to non-toxic toys, these products prioritize the well-being of both children and the environment.
Sustainable Material Sourcing
One key aspect of sustainable travel products is the sourcing of materials. Companies that prioritize sustainability strive to use materials that are biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable. By reducing reliance on single-use plastics and choosing materials like natural fibers, bio-based formulas, paper, aluminum, stainless steel, and brass, these companies contribute to minimizing landfill waste.
Representation and Giving Back
In addition to promoting sustainable materials, some companies go the extra mile by giving back to the community and the environment. Through initiatives like 1% for the Planet commitment and other donations, these companies ensure that a portion of their proceeds goes towards funding groups working towards improving the planet. By supporting these brands, travelers can actively contribute to the betterment of the environment and support companies that share their values.
By choosing eco-friendly kids' products, supporting sustainable material sourcing, and opting for companies that give back, travelers can make a positive impact while staying clean and conscious during their holiday travels. Making small changes in the products we use can lead to significant benefits for the environment and future generations.
Cleanliness While Traveling
When traveling, maintaining cleanliness is essential to ensure a safe and healthy journey. This section focuses on the cleanliness aspects of traveling, including airplane sanitation concerns, useful cleaning items for travelers, and the importance of hand hygiene.
Airplane Sanitation Concerns
Airplanes, with their high volume of passengers and frequent use, can become breeding grounds for bacteria and germs. According to a head flight attendant, planes in a popular airline are only thoroughly cleaned once every 5 years, with points of contact like door handles, armrests, and window coverings being cleaned infrequently [2]. This lack of regular sanitation raises concerns about the cleanliness of planes.
To minimize exposure to potential germs, it's a good practice to carry sanitizing wipes. These wipes can be used to clean surfaces such as tray tables, armrests, and seatbelt buckles before use. Additionally, using a personal travel blanket or pillow cover can provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind during your journey.
Useful Cleaning Items for Travelers
When it comes to staying clean while traveling, it's helpful to have a few essential cleaning items on hand. Here are some useful items to consider:
- Stain remover pens: These portable stain removal tools are recommended for travelers to pre-treat stains promptly, such as ketchup or red wine stains, before they become more challenging to remove. They are convenient for addressing spills and stains while away from home.
- Alcohol wipes: As an alternative to hand sanitizers, alcohol wipes are practical for quick cleaning before meals or in situations where cleanliness is a concern. These wipes contain a disinfectant and are portable, affordable, and effective for maintaining hygiene while traveling [2].
- Travel-size disinfectant spray: Having a small bottle of disinfectant spray can come in handy for sanitizing surfaces in hotel rooms, rental cars, or other shared spaces. Take care to choose a non-toxic, eco-friendly option to minimize your impact on the environment.
Importance of Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene is crucial for a safe and healthy journey. Regular hand washing is essential as hands pick up a great deal of bacteria and can transfer harmful bacteria and viruses to yourself and others. It is recommended to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before and after touching common touch points like doorknobs, handrails, or elevator buttons [3].
When soap and water are not readily available, alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used. Carry a travel-sized hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content to effectively kill germs on the go. Sterillium® Protect & Care products are recommended for travel bags to ensure proper hand hygiene [4].
By being mindful of cleanliness while traveling, including addressing airplane sanitation concerns, carrying useful cleaning items, and practicing proper hand hygiene, you can stay clean and reduce the risk of illness during your journey.
Skincare Tips for Travel
Maintaining a consistent skincare routine while traveling is essential to keep your skin healthy and glowing. Whether you're headed home for the holidays or embarking on an exciting adventure, here are some skincare tips to help you take care of your skin on the go.
Consistent Skincare Routine
When traveling, it's best to stick to your usual skincare products and avoid trying new ones or making drastic changes to your routine. This helps prevent potential skin issues that may arise from introducing unfamiliar products. Your travel skincare routine should remain consistent, including cleansing, toning, using serums, moisturizers, and applying SPF. However, minor adjustments can be made based on the climate of your destination. For example, if transitioning from winter to a tropical location, consider incorporating products suitable for the summer months [5].
Climate-Adapted Skincare
Tailor your skincare products to the climate of your destination. Adjust your routine to match the weather conditions you will be experiencing. If traveling from a colder climate to a warm and humid location, switch to products suitable for the summer months. On the other hand, if you're heading to a colder or drier climate, opt for richer moisturizers to combat dryness. Adapting your skincare routine to the climate can help keep your skin balanced and protected [5].
Essential Skincare Products
When traveling, it's important to prioritize the essential skincare products that provide the most benefits. Some key products to pack include:
- Cleanser: Choose a gentle cleanser that effectively removes dirt, sweat, and makeup without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
- Toner: A toner helps balance the skin's pH levels and prepares it for better absorption of subsequent products.
- Serum: Consider packing a serum that addresses specific skin concerns, such as hydration, brightening, or anti-aging.
- Moisturizer: Opt for a lightweight moisturizer for humid climates and a richer one for drier or colder environments.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen daily, even during flights, as you may be exposed to increased radiation and closer proximity to the sun at higher altitudes [6].
Additionally, consider including zit patches in your travel skincare kit to address any unexpected breakouts. These patches can help prevent breakouts from worsening and are a useful addition to your travel skincare routine.
By maintaining a consistent skincare routine, adapting it to the climate of your destination, and packing essential products, you can keep your skin healthy and radiant while traveling. Remember to prioritize hydration, protect your skin from the sun, and make adjustments based on the environmental conditions you'll encounter. Safe travels and happy, healthy skin!
Preparing Your Home
Before embarking on a holiday trip, it is important to properly prepare your home to ensure peace of mind during your absence. This section will cover the house shutdown checklist, peace of mind preparation, and detailed pre-trip tasks to help you get organized and leave your home in order.
House Shutdown Checklist
A house shutdown checklist is an invaluable tool to ensure that everything is in order before leaving for your trip. This checklist includes tasks to clean up and shut down the house on the day of departure, helping you to systematically address various aspects of home preparation. A well-executed house shutdown ensures that you return to find things exactly as you left them, providing peace of mind.
The checklist is typically divided into four sections, covering tasks to be completed one month before the trip, one week before, one to two days before, and on the day of departure. This systematic approach allows you to stay organized and tackle pre-trip preparations in a timely manner.
Here is a general overview of the house shutdown checklist:
One Month BeforeOne Week BeforeOne to Two Days BeforeDay of DepartureArrange for mail and package holdEmpty trash cansUnplug unnecessary electronicsTurn off lights and appliancesArrange for pet care or boardingSet timers for lights and security systemsAdjust thermostat and water heaterLock all doors and windowsSecure travel insurance and notify credit card companiesStop newspaper and other deliveriesClose and lock all windows and blindsCheck all faucets and appliances for leaksArrange for lawn care or snow removalPay bills due during the tripSet up motion sensor lightsSet the security alarmInform a trusted neighbor about your absenceConfirm transportation and accommodation detailsDouble-check all packed itemsDouble-check all doors and windows
Keep in mind that this is a general overview, and you can customize the checklist based on your specific needs and circumstances.
Peace of Mind Preparation
In addition to completing the house shutdown checklist, there are other preparations you can make to enhance your peace of mind while traveling. These preparations include:
- Informing a trusted neighbor or friend about your absence: Share your travel plans and contact information with someone you trust. They can keep an eye on your property and alert you or the authorities in case of any emergencies.
- Setting up automatic lights or timers: Use timers or smart home technology to turn on lights at different times, creating the illusion of an occupied home and deterring potential intruders.
- Informing your alarm company: If you have a security alarm system, inform the company about your travel dates and provide them with emergency contact information.
- Arranging for plant care: If you have indoor or outdoor plants, make arrangements for someone to water them during your absence. Consider moving delicate plants away from direct sunlight to prevent wilting.
By taking these additional steps, you can feel more secure about leaving your home and enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.
Detailed Pre-Trip Tasks
In the days leading up to your departure, there are several detailed pre-trip tasks you can undertake to ensure a smooth journey and return to a well-maintained home. These tasks include:
- Packing essentials: Prepare a detailed packing list and gather all the necessary items, including travel documents, clothing, toiletries, and any specific items required for your trip.
- Cleaning and organizing: Clean your home thoroughly, dispose of perishable items from the refrigerator, and ensure that everything is organized. This will make your return more pleasant and help prevent any unpleasant surprises.
- Securing valuables: Store valuable items, such as jewelry or important documents, in a secure place. Consider using a safe or hiding them in a discreet location.
- Unplugging appliances: To conserve energy and reduce the risk of electrical issues, unplug non-essential appliances and electronic devices.
- Adjusting thermostat and water heater: Adjust the thermostat to an energy-saving setting and lower the temperature on your water heater to save energy while you're away.
By attending to these detailed pre-trip tasks, you can enjoy your holiday knowing that your home is well-prepared and secure.
Properly preparing your home before heading out on a holiday trip not only provides peace of mind but also contributes to a smooth and worry-free travel experience. Following a house shutdown checklist, making peace of mind preparations, and completing detailed pre-trip tasks ensure that you can relax and enjoy your time away, knowing that your home is in good hands.
Health Tips While Traveling
When embarking on holiday travel, it's essential to prioritize health and hygiene to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some important health tips to consider while traveling.
Holiday Illness Statistics
Holiday illnesses can put a damper on your travel plans. According to the DAK Health Holiday Report 2021, 6% of Germans fell ill during their holidays. The most common reasons for illness were colds (41%) and gastrointestinal infections. Being aware of these statistics can help you take necessary precautions to protect yourself while traveling.
Importance of Hand Hygiene
Maintaining proper hand hygiene is crucial for a safe and healthy holiday. Germs are responsible for many infections during or after holidays, especially when traveling to foreign countries where individuals come into contact with unfamiliar viruses and bacteria that their immune systems may not effectively combat.
To protect yourself from harmful germs, it's important to practice regular handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and water are not readily available, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content is a suitable alternative. Consider packing Sterillium® Protect & Care products in your travel bag for convenient and effective hand hygiene on the go [4].
Preventing Infections Abroad
Preventing infections while traveling, especially in tropical regions, is crucial for a healthy holiday experience. The Foreign Office emphasizes the importance of disease prevention and hygiene abroad to avoid illnesses during holidays. Factors such as temperatures conducive to germs and sub-standard hygiene conditions can contribute to the spread of infections during travel.
To minimize the risk of infections, consider the following tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding tap water in regions where it may not be safe to consume.
- Be cautious with food choices, opting for cooked and properly prepared meals.
- Use insect repellents and protective clothing to guard against vector-borne diseases.
- Stay up to date with recommended vaccinations for your travel destination.
By following these health tips, you can reduce the likelihood of falling ill during your holiday travels and ensure a memorable and worry-free experience. Remember, prevention is key, so prioritize your health and hygiene wherever your travels may take you.
Sustainable Skin Care
Taking care of your skin should not only focus on its health but also consider the impact on the environment. Sustainable skin care is gaining popularity as people become more conscious of their choices. In this section, we will explore how to choose sustainable brands, certifications to look for, and expert recommendations for sustainable skin care.
Choosing Sustainable Brands
When it comes to sustainable skin care, it's essential to select brands that prioritize ethical and environmentally-friendly practices. Candice Batista, an environmental journalist and editor-in-chief of The Eco Hub, suggests prioritizing companies that employ sustainable manufacturing practices. This includes using renewable energy sources, reducing water usage, and minimizing waste during production.
Researching a brand's sustainability efforts can help you identify those committed to protecting the environment. Look for brands that use organic and natural ingredients, practice fair trade, and support eco-friendly packaging initiatives.
Certifications to Look For
To ensure that the skin care products you choose meet specific environmental and ethical standards, look for helpful certifications. Some certifications to consider include:
- USDA Organic: This certification ensures that the product meets the organic standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture. It guarantees that the ingredients are grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
- Ecocert: Ecocert is an internationally recognized certification that verifies the use of natural and organic ingredients in a product. It also ensures that the manufacturing process is environmentally friendly and sustainable [10].
- Leaping Bunny: The Leaping Bunny certification signifies that a product is cruelty-free and not tested on animals. It ensures that no animal testing was conducted during the development and production of the skin care product.
Expert Recommendations
When it comes to sustainable skin care, experts in the industry provide valuable insights and recommendations. Dr. Barbara Paldus, founder and CEO of Codex Labs, suggests looking for skin care products with biotech actives, carbon footprint certifications, and FSC- or PEFC-certified cartons and leaflets. These certifications ensure that the products are not only sustainable but also utilize advanced technology to provide effective results.
Isabel Varela, a sustainability activist, relies on the Environmental Working Group (EWG) for finding vetted clean beauty products. The EWG evaluates products based on their safety, non-toxicity, and environmental impact. By consulting the EWG's database, you can make informed decisions about the sustainability and safety of the skin care products you choose.
By considering sustainable brands, looking for relevant certifications, and following expert recommendations, you can make conscious choices when it comes to your skin care routine. Sustainable skin care not only benefits your skin but also contributes to the well-being of the planet.
References
- [1]: https://earthhero.com
- [2]: https://cleanmyspace.com
- [3]: https://www.healthandfitnesstravel.com
- [4]: https://www.sterillium.info
- [5]: https://anindigoday.com
- [6]: https://theeverygirl.com
- [7]: https://gatherandgotravel.com
- [8]: https://www.dak.de
- [9]: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de
- [10]: https://www.cnn.com
