Every saving counts, from small actions like purchasing a reusable water bottle to opting for eco-friendly laundry dryer sheets. Every little bit adds up, and by choosing eco-friendly options, you not only benefit the environment but also your finances. This way, you can save more money in the long term for your travel adventures. Let’s go!
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
- For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.
- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
- For tried-and-true travel and hiking gear, check out our Amazon Storefront.
Eco-Friendly Products We Use
We are making a conscious effort to choose environmentally friendly products for our travels and daily use. It’s a healthier approach to taking care of our body and some of these products have not only contributed to saving money but have also supported our travel budget.
Many of these products contain natural ingredients and I also take into account whether the product packaging is recyclable and eco-friendly. The products mentioned below have been beneficial for us, and I just want to share how they have impacted our lives. Please note that this is not a sponsored post for any of the products listed.
1. Nalgene Reusable Water Bottle
Nalgene reusable water bottles feature:
Packaging
We are making a conscious effort to choose environmentally friendly products for our travels and daily use. It’s a healthier approach to taking care of our body and some of these products have not only contributed to saving money but have also supported our travel budget.
Many of these products contain natural ingredients and I also take into account whether the product packaging is recyclable and eco-friendly. The products mentioned below have been beneficial for us, and I just want to share how they have impacted our lives. Please note that this is not a sponsored post for any of the products listed.
Nalgene reusable water bottles feature:
- BPA-free
- BPS-free
- Phthalates-free
- Leak-proof
- Impact-resistant
- Build to last
Packaging
This bottle has accompanied us on hikes and trips, proving to be the ideal size, lightweight, and capable of holding a good amount of water. Despite enduring numerous drops, it still looks brand new. It even attaches easily with a carabiner, making it convenient for my husband to carry to work. Simple, effective, and reliable!
Sea Turtle Silicone Reusable Straw feature:
- Made of 100% food-grade material
- BPA-free
Packaging
It contains 10 eco-friendly straws packaged in paper, complete with an eco-carry bag and two cleaning brushes for the straws. The set includes 10 straws in 5 different colors, providing plenty of spares for home use. I even make sure to pack them in all our hiking and travel bags, and I always carry them in my purse.
One million people said, "It's just one straw!"
No more guilt over non-recyclable straws ending up in landfills. It's time to take a stand! I feel empowered knowing that I can encourage my partner and baby to use reusable straws whenever we go out. I've always been passionate about the environment, so I've transitioned to using metal straws and have been using them personally for a while now.
- Baking soda free
- Aluminium-free
- Paraben free
- Plastic-free
Packaging
It comes in a glass jar with a metal lid, making everything recyclable. This deodorant is skin-friendly, free of harsh chemicals, and effective. Transitioning to a natural deodorant was challenging since we were accustomed to aluminum-based products that block sweat, although our bodies naturally need to release sweat from our armpits. Also, check out: Minimalist Travel Makeup Essentials
Travel Size too!
Travel Size too!
Perfect size for traveling and fits inside your hand-carry bag, it's amazing how a small product can make such a difference. No white residue means no marks or stains on clothes. It's effective for odor control, keeps me smelling fresh, and most importantly it didn’t give me any rashes. Just a pea-sized amount is needed for each application, which saves money by using less product from each bottle.
4. Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets are:
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets: Never Going Back!
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets are:
- Bleach-free
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
- Phosphate-free
- Phthalate-free
Packaging
It comes in 100% recyclable cardboard packaging. Being hypoallergenic, it doesn't cause any irritation for me or my baby's eczema-prone skin. These paper sheets are remarkable; no more laundry detergent bottles, no need for extensive storage, and no spills. They help reduce plastic waste and are lightweight.
No Mess
When we travel, we usually bring along a few sheets. The best part is no mess, no measuring, and no worries about spills or leftover liquid, unlike traditional detergents.
.jpg "Eco friendly ways to save money")
5. MaHonestFelt Wool Dryer Balls
MaHonestFelt Wool Dryer Balls feature:
.jpg "Eco friendly ways to save money")
MaHonestFelt Wool Dryer Balls feature:
- Made from 100% New Zealand wool
- Free from dyes
- Contains no fabric fillers
- Chemical-free
- Fragrance-free
Packaging
It comes with six extra-large handmade dryer balls and is packaged in an organic cotton bag for storage.
Saves Time and Money
These dryer balls serve as our natural fabric softener, eliminating the need for dryer sheets and liquid softener. They are reusable, reduce clothing wrinkles, and shorten drying time. In the past, without a powerful dryer, we often had to dry our clothes twice. Since using this product, I have saved time, decreased drying cycles, and avoided frustration over potential increases in utility bills.
By cutting down on the energy required for folding clothes and eliminating the need for ironing, I can save time. Additionally, since our laundry load doubled after having a child, these dryer balls have proven to be incredibly beneficial in our household, showcasing how small changes can lead to significant savings over time.
The Best Part
Whenever I go grocery shopping, I never have to carry those bulky laundry detergent jugs and boxes of dryer sheets to the parking area. It feels liberating knowing that we're saving money, using chemical-free products that are safe for sensitive skin, and are also environmentally friendly.
6. Natracare Feminine Pads
Natracare Feminine Pads features:
Packaging
The packaging is biodegradable and crafted from plant starch, and the pad wrapper is also made from paper. This product is truly amazing! I have never come across a feminine product that is fully compostable. It is gentle, non-irritating, and feels good. They also offer feminine liners that are soft, stay in place, and are compostable as well.
7. Salt Air Shampoo and Conditioner
Salt Air Shampoo and Conditioner feature:
Packaging
Less is More
What I like about this product is that you don’t need that much to wash and condition your hair. A small pump is all it takes which means fever times to buy it again and more savings. And it works great for curly hair like mine, it is hard to find a product out in the market that works.
Hair Story: Growing Away from the Norms
Growing up in the Philippines, I always saw my hair as beautiful because my mother would often compliment it, perhaps as a way to encourage me to embrace my uniqueness. Despite the prevailing norm favoring straight and rebonded hair, a process that straightens and maintains a glossy look for weeks but can become dry and awkward as naturally curly hair grows, I succumbed to rebonding after college. The chemicals on my hair left me feeling uncomfortable. It's time to acknowledge that not all Filipinas have straight hair and move away from the trend of perfect, straight, shiny hair, especially for younger generations. I am grateful to have moved past that phase and learned to embrace my curls. My mom was right; I woke up feeling like I was ready for a special occasion. It took me a while to find a product that suits my curly hair, and now that I have, I can't help but feel emotional, wishing I could share this with my mom, hoping she can see and appreciate it from above.
8. Forid Reusable Ziplock Bags
Forid Reusable Ziplock Bags feature:
Home and Travel Use
The Best Part
Whenever I go grocery shopping, I never have to carry those bulky laundry detergent jugs and boxes of dryer sheets to the parking area. It feels liberating knowing that we're saving money, using chemical-free products that are safe for sensitive skin, and are also environmentally friendly.
Natracare Feminine Pads features:
- Made from organic cotton
- Chlorine-free
- Plastic-free
- Perfume-free
The packaging is biodegradable and crafted from plant starch, and the pad wrapper is also made from paper. This product is truly amazing! I have never come across a feminine product that is fully compostable. It is gentle, non-irritating, and feels good. They also offer feminine liners that are soft, stay in place, and are compostable as well.
Salt Air Shampoo and Conditioner feature:
- Cruelty-Free
- Vegan
- Paraben-Free
- Gluten-Free
- Talc-Free
- Phthalate-Free
Packaging
Salt Air shampoo and conditioner are packaged in aluminum, which is more eco-friendly than plastic as it is easily recyclable and considered the most environmentally friendly material.
Bonus Tip: It's cheaper if you buy this in Target.
Bonus Tip: It's cheaper if you buy this in Target.
Less is More
What I like about this product is that you don’t need that much to wash and condition your hair. A small pump is all it takes which means fever times to buy it again and more savings. And it works great for curly hair like mine, it is hard to find a product out in the market that works.
Hair Story: Growing Away from the Norms
Growing up in the Philippines, I always saw my hair as beautiful because my mother would often compliment it, perhaps as a way to encourage me to embrace my uniqueness. Despite the prevailing norm favoring straight and rebonded hair, a process that straightens and maintains a glossy look for weeks but can become dry and awkward as naturally curly hair grows, I succumbed to rebonding after college. The chemicals on my hair left me feeling uncomfortable. It's time to acknowledge that not all Filipinas have straight hair and move away from the trend of perfect, straight, shiny hair, especially for younger generations. I am grateful to have moved past that phase and learned to embrace my curls. My mom was right; I woke up feeling like I was ready for a special occasion. It took me a while to find a product that suits my curly hair, and now that I have, I can't help but feel emotional, wishing I could share this with my mom, hoping she can see and appreciate it from above.
Forid Reusable Ziplock Bags feature:
- Food-grade
- BPA-free
- Lead-free
- Chloride-free
Home and Travel Use
It's a set of 6 leakproof reusable gallon freezer bags that are multi-functional. They are suitable for marinating food, snacks, meal prep, travel essentials, and various kitchen items. We took them on our hiking and camping trips to reduce plastic waste and they are ready for our next adventure. Additionally, we used them for meal prepping to simplify dinner decisions. These bags are freezer-safe, seal airtight, and are a sustainable alternative to disposable ziplock bags, saving money for your next journey.
Pack Snacks
Bringing along food for trips really saves us money especially if we’re just going around the city. It takes time to prepare for it but in the long run, it helps us to focus more on saving for our trips abroad.
Greenzla Bamboo Toothbrush features:
Packaging
- BPA-free soft bristles
- Wooden Handles
Packaging
This toothbrush is both biodegradable and compostable, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. The kids' bamboo toothbrush comes in a pack of six with paper packaging, and my little one loves it. It's ideal for his small hands as he starts brushing his teeth and embraces the environmentally friendly practice of saving the planet.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen Features:
- SPF 30+
- Non-nano zinc oxide formula
- Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Chemical-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Dye-free
- Dioxins-free
Packaging
The sunscreen bottle features a plastic label labeled as number one. This type of plastic, commonly recycled due to its clear and lightweight nature, is known as the number one plastic. Usually, recycling facilities easily accept plastics numbered one and two. However, plastics numbered three to six present more recycling difficulties, with some facilities unable to process them. Plastic labeled as number seven is notably challenging to recycle and is often not accepted for recycling.
SPF Reference
SPF levels indicate the level of protection against the sun's UVB rays:
- SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays.
- SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays.
- SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays.
- SPF 70 blocks 98.5% of UVB rays.
- Learn more: How to Decode Sunscreen Labels by the American Academy of Dermatology Association
Safe for the Ocean
This sunscreen contains a non-nano zinc oxide formula which means it’s safe for coral reefs. Certain destinations such as Hawaii, Mexico, Maldives, Belize, Florida, and the Great Barrier Reef mandate the use of coral reef-safe sunscreen. However, it is essential to use such sunscreen in any body of water worldwide, not just in countries with these regulations.
Kid Friendly
The sunscreen has a non-greasy formula and provides water resistance for 40-80 minutes. We even used this sunscreen on our baby's skin when he was more than 6 months old as it’s gentle on babies' delicate skin.
For the face: Thinkdaily Tinted Sunscreen
- SPF 30
- Non-Nano Zinc Oxide Formula
- UVA/UVB Broad Spectrum Protection
- Vegan
- PABA-Free
- Paraben-Free
- Phthalates-Free
- BPA-Free
- Oxybenzone-Free
- Avobenzone-Free
For the Lips: Sun Bum Tinted Lip Balm
Sun Bum Tinted Lip Balm features:
- SPF 15
- UVA/UVB Broad Spectrum Protection
- Paraben-Free
- Silicone-Free
- Gluten-Free
- Dye-Free
- Oxybenzone-Free
Additionally, it is Hawaii Act 104 Reef Compliant, making it safe for use while swimming in the ocean.
Ever since discovering this lip balm, I've stopped purchasing lipstick, which I never really liked. This lip balm is affordable and provides a rich color tint that gives the appearance of wearing lipstick. Moreover, it includes SPF for sun protection and keeps my lips moisturized, all without leaving any white marks on the edges. Also, check out: Minimalist Make-up Travel Essentials
Tips when applying sunscreen
We ensured to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially during outdoor activities like hiking, traveling, or spending time at the beach. Even on a cloudy as UV rays still can penetrate through the clouds.
Applying sunscreen is crucial, especially since we are often outdoors hiking and traveling, even in winter. Reflections from snow and water can amplify UV rays. Lastly, aim to reduce sun exposure during the peak UV hours between 10 am and 4 pm.
We ensured to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially during outdoor activities like hiking, traveling, or spending time at the beach. Even on a cloudy as UV rays still can penetrate through the clouds.
Applying sunscreen is crucial, especially since we are often outdoors hiking and traveling, even in winter. Reflections from snow and water can amplify UV rays. Lastly, aim to reduce sun exposure during the peak UV hours between 10 am and 4 pm.
Save Money Faster
Opting to dine at home is an excellent method to save money, and it's that simple. Whether hiking, having beach picnics, going on road trips, or engaging in other activities, bringing our own food saves us more money specifically for our travels than dining out.
In addition to purchasing eco-friendly products, we have also invested in home appliances to reduce waste from dining out frequently. By doing so, we are contributing to environmental preservation and saving money for our travels. These appliances have been the best investment for our family, as they aid in waste reduction, resource conservation, and minimizing our environmental footprint. They have certainly helped us save money in their own small but impactful way.
My Awesome Mr. Coffee and Favorite Coffee.
Mr. Coffee features:
- Brew Later Feature
- Automatically shuts off after two hours for safety and energy-saving
Invest in a coffee maker to start setting money aside for your adventures. By brewing coffee at home, you not only save money for your upcoming travels but also contribute to environmental conservation by reducing the use of disposable coffee cups. Just think about the amount of coffee you purchase in a month – multiply that by six months, or even a year, save that up and you'll have extra funds for an activity or meal during your trip.
Match Made in Heaven
If you want to take it to the next level of sustainability a French Press is the way to go. Also, I try to avoid coffee pods, I love Deathwish's “World's Strongest Coffee” it has been a staple in our kitchen. This coffee is vegan, USDA organic, gluten-free, and Fair Trade certified. It is a Dark Roast Ground Coffee with tasting notes of subtle hints of dark chocolate and black cherry. The beans used are a blend of Arabica and Robusta.
While we still treat ourselves to coffee shop visits occasionally, we make an effort to bring our mugs. Some places like Starbucks even offer a small discount when you use your mug, helping you avoid single-use cups sustainably.
Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 features:
- Pressure, Air Fry, Steam, Slow Cook, Yogurt, Sear/Saute, Bake/Roast, Broil, Food Warmer
Cooking has become a breeze for me thanks to the Ninja Foodi, especially for those with minimal cooking skills or experience who still want to eat healthily. I rely heavily on the air fryer, which helps us save on oil consumption. While some dishes like drumsticks and French fries require a light oil coating, it's a much better alternative to deep-frying with excessive oil. Whenever you're ready: Cook like a Pro: Easy Ninja Foodi Meals
Investing in our Health and Wallet
Using our Ninja Foodi, we can recreate fast-food favorites such as burgers and fries more healthily, and even better it’s without the need for cardboard or wax paper to hold the food.
Vitamix Blender: My Fitness Coach!
13. Vitamix Blender
Vitamix Blender features:
- BPA-Free Tritan
- Capacity: 64 Fluid Ounces
- Built to last
Although it may be expensive, the quality is unmatched. This blender surpasses many other brands in durability and is one of the most powerful blenders available. We can confirm that it has been one of the best investments we have made for our health. Also, what I love about this blender is that it's lightweight, made of durable plastic, and easy to clean. The material is Tritan, a type of BPA-free plastic known for its durability and long-lasting qualities.
The Best Part
With our Vitamix blender, we can create our own smoothies. We prepare one before heading out to the mall, for a hike, the beach, or even the gym. This helps us avoid buying beverages like protein drinks and smoothies on the go. We blend our smoothies for only a minute, resulting in a juice-like consistency, unlike other brands that require longer blending times, consuming more electricity. With our blender, we save energy, which is beneficial for our utility bill and the environment.
We used a Ninja Blender before we upgraded to Vitamix, it's a great option for couples and more affordable too.
iRobot Vacuum Cleaner features:
- Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum and Mop
- Clean by Room with Smart Mapping
- Empties its Bin for Up to 60 Days
If you have young children, this product is a game-changer. I never truly appreciated the value of help until I became a parent and realized how messy things can get with kids roaming around the house with their snacks. This vacuum cleaner has become my reliable ally. The best part is that it tidies up while we sleep or I can set it to clean while we're away on a hike, running errands or a trip so that when we return from maybe a week-long vacation, the floors are spotless. This freedom from worrying about the floors gives me a sense of support, allowing me to focus on other tasks.
Moreover, we upgraded to the model with the tower, which has proven to be a fantastic decision. With this version, I no longer need to manually empty it or deal with airborne particles that might cause allergies. The vacuum cleaner now automatically empties itself and can hold dust for up to 60 days.
Modern Mommy Duties on the Go. This has saved me so much time, especially since we do a lot of hiking and traveling. As a busy blogger, keeping the house clean is still on my priority list and the iRobot has been a total game-changer for me.
A Parent's Best Companion
Using the iRobot vacuum cleaner, we can save money by not having to buy Swiffer mop pads, as this iRobot model also comes with a mop. Did I mention that? It's truly a game-changer! It thoroughly vacuums carpets, reaches under furniture, cleans wooden and tiled floors, and mops them too.
The most satisfying part is not having to worry about cleaning the floors, especially since I have a child now, which is crucial to me now that I have a child.
Using the iRobot vacuum cleaner, we can save money by not having to buy Swiffer mop pads, as this iRobot model also comes with a mop. Did I mention that? It's truly a game-changer! It thoroughly vacuums carpets, reaches under furniture, cleans wooden and tiled floors, and mops them too.
The most satisfying part is not having to worry about cleaning the floors, especially since I have a child now, which is crucial to me now that I have a child.
For a more affordable option, check out iRobot i4, I called him "Boogie" and he was an unforgettable companion. This Wi-Fi-connected robot vacuum allows room-by-room cleaning with smart mapping. It is perfect for handling pet hair on carpets and hard floors. It's also the same with the latest one just no tower bin for the automatic dust removal.
.jpg "Eco friendly ways to save money")
15. Frying Pans
Culinary Bestfriends at Home:
This is the top secret behind those mouth-watering dishes at your favorite restaurants - a stainless steel pan and a cast iron conducting culinary magic!
Stainless steel, the superstar of metals, is the champion choice for your kitchen! It's not just another pretty face - it's a household hero that promises safety and durability. It does not react with ingredients, keeping your meals toxin-free.
Cleaning up is a breeze with stainless steel. Its sleek, nonporous surface is like a fortress, barring any food particles or liquids from sneaking in. This means no nasty germs or bacteria taking up residence in your cookware. And here's a little trick from my own culinary escapades - when my eggs decide to char themselves onto my pan (yes, I’m that good in the kitchen), all it takes to restore its gleam is a boiling bath of lemons. For stubborn stains just arm yourself with a steel scrubber, and it'll be history in no time!
Less is More
After investing in stainless steel frying pans instead of constantly repurchasing scratched Teflon and non-stick pans that lose their effectiveness over time, the relief of relying on one durable pan that consistently performs well is truly refreshing.
Get ready to sizzle up your cooking game with cast iron cookware! It's like your kitchen's secret weapon - less oil, no nasty chemicals, and adds a touch of iron to your meals. Top chefs around the globe swear by these kitchen champs for their unbeatable durability and flavor-boosting powers. To clean this bad boy cookware, simply wash it while warm and remember to apply a light coating of oil before storing it. We have used this cast iron both at home and on the grill, including for making delicious burgers.
Bonus Tip: Start a Healthy Regime with a Meal Planner
I don't make meals every day as I like saving my time for other important things that matter to me. Even before we had a baby, my husband and I loved the freedom of not worrying about "what's for dinner". We kept it simple, prepare on the weekends or whenever we're both off and do the meal prep that will last us for days. I also use a weekly meal planner to plan our meals in advance, stay on track with our wellness goals, and ensure that we have all the necessary ingredients. Preparing meals is a great way to ensure you have food to eat when you return from traveling. Just heat it up and enjoy!
To use a weekly meal planner effectively, start by selecting your weekly recipes, creating a grocery list, and then preparing your ingredients in advance. This will make cooking and mealtime easier and less stressful. Remember to be flexible and adjust your plan as needed. Happy meal planning!
Explore an extensive range of planners, journals, and notebooks designed for both children and adults. To find out more, visit https://flyingstarfishstudios.com.
Every little bit of savings adds up
These eco-friendly products are my top picks, you may not agree- but it's ok!. This has benefited the entire family by promoting better health and saving money. Moreover, we are contributing to environmental conservation in our little ways. A memorable saying that once adorned my college room cabinet still resonates with me: "Every ripple makes a difference in the shoreline." Every little bit of savings adds up, you’d be surprised. By making small changes each time you shop, you can save money for travels and make a significant impact on both your life and the environment.
Have fun and be safe ^__^
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