Summer Adventures Made Green

Sustainable Travel Tips, Reusables to Pack, and Why Our Parks Need Us

Summer’s here, and if you're anything like me, you're already mapping out hikes, swimming spots, and road trip snack combos. Whether you're headed to a nearby trail or planning a cross-country trek, summer is about slowing down, connecting with nature, and hopefully getting a little dirt under your nails.

But before you throw your water bottle in the car and take off, let’s talk about how we can make our summer adventures a little greener—and why now, more than ever, our national parks and open spaces need our care and protection.

First Things First: Pack with Intention

I’m not into overcomplicated checklists, but there are a few basics I always bring on any trip to help reduce waste and lessen my footprint:

• Reusable water bottle and coffee mug (bonus points for a filter bottle if you’re hiking or camping)

• Cloth napkin or reusable paper towel (yes, I make those, and yes, they’re wildly useful)

• Reusable utensils or travel spork

• Small trash + recycling bag so you can pack out your waste—even better if you help clean up what others leave behind

• A tote bag or two for farmers’ markets, small town shops, or just keeping your gear together

• Eco-friendly sunscreen and bug spray – because if it’s toxic to coral reefs and bees, do you really want it on your skin?

I’ve gathered a few of my go-to sustainable summer essentials in case you want a shortcut.

Now, Let’s Talk About Our Parks

This is where I get a little fired up.

National parks, state forests, and public lands are under threat. Budget cuts, lack of staffing, and in some cases—plans to sell or develop them for natural resources—are a real thing happening right now. These places don’t just provide beauty, biodiversity, and hiking trails. They protect water sources, store carbon, and preserve fragile ecosystems.

Visiting these places respectfully is one of the best ways we can show their value. Buy a park pass, support local park partners, and follow the Leave No Trace principles. And if you can—donate or write to your representatives about protecting these spaces. (Seriously, here are tips to writing your representative and how to find your representative.)

Leave It Better Than You Found It

If you only remember one thing this summer, let it be this: leave no trace.

Actually—leave it better. Pick up a wrapper that isn’t yours. Stay on the trail. Skip the glittery biodegradable confetti (that’s not a real thing). Respect signs and limits. Respect wildlife. These places are wild for a reason—and we’re lucky to be guests.

Let’s Make This Summer One to Remember

Sustainable travel doesn’t mean perfect—it just means paying attention, making better choices where we can, and showing up for the places we love.

Have a favorite park? Tag me in your adventures. Let’s fill our feeds and memories with wildflowers, winding trails, and moments that remind us why this planet is worth protecting.

And if you need a lightweight, packable reusable or a plastic-free gift for a fellow adventurer—I've got you covered.