There is no denying that travel is food for the soul, the simple act of visiting somewhere new can have a myriad of physical and mental benefits, such as lowering stress levels, enhancing your creativity, boosting your happiness and satisfaction and it exposes you to new environments, which helps boost your immune system! Furthermore, travel is also an important tool for personal development and allows you to gain insights into alternative ways of living and allows you to see the world from different perspectives.
Unfortunately, though, travel isn’t without its downsides. In 2018, the word ‘Overtourism’ was shortlisted as one of the words of the year by Oxford Dictionary. Highlighting the damage that excessive tourism can have on famous locations, local residents and the environment.
Nonetheless, you can still travel, learn, grow and aim to minimise your overall impact via these simple steps:
- Wherever possible, avoid the plane and take the train (and when you must catch a jet, offset your miles - most airlines offer carbon offset at checkout)
- Research tour operators and support sustainable providers
- Avoid plastic as best you can by coming prepared with a drink bottle, and travel utensils
- Protect and support cultural and national heritage
- Protect and support wildlife (as the saying goes, take only photos and leave only footprints)
- Support the real local economy
If you are thinking about getting some new travel gear before you head off on your trip THE ICONIC’s Considered Edit is a great place to start. Below are my top picks for travelling that feature products made using materials or processes that are better for humans, animals or the environment, or made by a brand positively contributing to the community at large.
1. Bellroy Travel Wallet

1. Bellroy Travel Wallet
Bellroy is a certified B Corp business and actively is engaged in using the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. This nifty travel wallet is made using Leather Working Group certified leather and is the perfect passport companion.
2. Klean Kanteen 27oz Classic Sport Cap

2. Klean Kanteen 27oz Classic Sport Cap
If you are travelling overseas, a reusable water bottle is a must. So why not opt for this classic drink bottle from Klean Kanteen? This bottle made is made with stainless steel and is BPA free. Klean Kanteen is also B Corp certified and is a 1% for the planet member donating 1% of all profits to charitable organisations.
3. Samsonite Spark Eco Spinner 79cm Case

3. Samsonite Spark Eco Spinner 79cm Case
For quite some time, there were no easily available sustainable options for larger travel and luggage. Luckily, Samsonite recently released their Spark Eco Spinner collection. This 79cm case will fit everything you need for your next trip and is made with 95% recycled PET polyester shell and cork, making it the perfect travel companion for the environmentally conscious adventurer.

4. Manduka PRO Travel Yoga Mat

4. Manduka PRO Travel Yoga Mat
A yoga mat may seem like a strange addition at first, but for those of you who are looking to maintain their yoga practice whilst abroad, this is a no brainer. Manduka invests 1% of online sales to organisations that align with their mission through project:OM.
5. Globite Australian Shearling Neck Pillow

5. Globite Australian Shearling Neck Pillow
This Shearling Neck Pillow from Globite is Aussie made using 100% local Merino wool and is the perfect accessory for long haul flights, trains or busses. It’s also going to be the comfiest travel pillow you will ever lay your hands on. I couldn’t recommend this one enough!
6. Bellroy Classic Backpack V.2

6. Bellroy Classic Backpack V.2
Another meticulously designed product from B Corp certified Bellroy. From the outside, it seems very similar to most conventional backpacks, but once you see the inner details you will be pleasantly surprised. This classy yet casual backpack boasts a padded laptop sleeve, an iPad sleeve, sunglass pocket, padded straps and a contoured back panel to keep you comfortable whilst you’re out and about.

7. Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack

7. Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack
No travel accessory list is complete without a bumbag of some description, they are the ultimate travel companion, housing all your essentials safely and securely without sacrificing style. The bag utilises recycled nylon and polyester and the body fabric is bluesign approved. Patagonia is one of the worlds leading sustainable and ethical brands. Patagonia is a part of the 1% for the planet initiative and promotes fair labour practices and a transparent supply chain through The Footprint Chronicles.
8. Republic of Florence Grand Dopp Kit

8. Republic of Florence Grand Dopp Kit
If you are on the hunt for a new toiletries bag for travel, consider purchasing one that is made using natural materials, such as this leather Dopp Kit bag from Republic of Florence. The brand focuses on producing high quality, durable products and uses vegetable-tanned leather.
