It’s Earth Day weekend and I wanted to share my favorite zero waste tips when traveling by plane. There is so much waste that we can avoid in an airport, so let’s see how we can all be more waste conscious while we travel.
Tip 1
Bring reusable utensils. At the airport there are plenty of opportunities to eat a snack or a proper meal, so it’s important to bring your own reusable utensils. On my recent trip, I packed a pair of chopsticks, a spoon and a reusable straw – the perfect combination for Taiwan. There are also plenty of bathrooms to rinse and clean your utensils in an airport. So don’t worry about getting your utensils dirty.
Tip 2
Use a reusable water bottle or travel cup. This tip isn’t anything new but it’s always important to mention. Most airports nowadays have designated areas to refill your water bottle and most cafes take reusable coffee cups. I have even used my reusable cup for a smoothie at the airport. So don’t forget this item at home! If you can’t bring a bottle and a travel mug, just pick one that you use the most.
Tip 3
Politely refuse single use products. This might seem rude or stand-offish but the key detail here is “politely”. Learning to politely refuse and return single use utensils on the plane or in the airport makes a huge difference. It might seem awkward or extra, but remember that as long as you’re being respectful, no one will be frustrated by the request.
Tip 4
Wash your hands. Instead of using piles of napkins or single use wet wipes to clean up, just find your nearest bathroom and wash your hands. It’s actually more hygienic and it will prevent so many unnecessary napkins and wipes from ending up in the trash. A bonus tip is to bring your own handkerchief to dry your hands or opt for a hand dryer.
Tip 5
Bring snacks or food in reusable containers. I know this takes some planning, but it cuts way down on your spending inside the airport terminal. Also snack containers are the best for bringing healthy snacks like nuts or carrots. It’s a win-win situation here.
Tip 6
Avoid plastic packaging in items or food. If you forgot your reusable containers, opt for plastic-free foods in the convenience stores. I’ve been to plenty of small shops that sell fresh fruit or fresh muffins. If it doesn’t have packaging, it is most likely fresher and better for you to be eating anyways. Just ask for the food item with nothing extra. Bada-boom! You’re keeping it zero waste at the airport.
Tip 7
Opt for an e-ticket or e-receipt. There is so much paper waste at the airport that it blows my mind. So always opt for an electronic ticket when available. It’s so easy to scan for the airport personal to scan your e-ticket on any smart phone. Just don’t forget to keep your phone charged and your screen brightness up! Also always opt for an electronic receipt or no receipt if you can. Each effort makes a difference.
Tip 8
Choose reusable travel size containers. I love me some travel sized products but make sure to avoid single use travel size products. It’s better to opt for reusable containers for your shampoo, skin care products and more. In the worst case scenario, make sure you can at least recycle the travel size containers.
Tip 9
Pack light. Since I’ve talked about bringing along all these reusable items, you might need to make some room for them in your luggage. Don’t worry, it’s not going to take up too much space in your bag. But any extra room you can make will help you be zero waste and stress free.
These are all the tips I have for being waste conscious in the airport. If you have any more tips you’d like to share, let me know in the comments. Also I’d love to hear if any of these tips are your favorites. I’ve avoided plenty of waste by learning how politely refuse single use plastic. What about you?
‘Til next time!
Daniela
