Summer in Aotearoa means road trips, beach days, and camping under star-filled skies. Whether you’re heading to the bach, a hidden gem campsite, or exploring the great Kiwi outdoors, let’s explore how you can travel light on the planet while packing all the fun.
The Spirit of Kiwi Travel
Travelling during a New Zealand summer is steeped in nostalgia – think chilly bins packed with soggy tomato sandwiches, chasing the perfect swimming spot, or getting lost down gravel roads that mysteriously all look the same. These moments connect us to the land and each other, reminding us that the journey is as important as the destination. Let’s be honest – no one remembers the traffic, but everyone remembers the dodgy slip-and-slide into the river. As more of us hit the road, it’s worth reflecting on how we can protect these experiences for future generations.
What Does Ethical Travel Look Like?
Ethical travel starts with awareness. It’s about leaving places as you found them (or better), supporting local businesses, and respecting the land, waters, and communities you visit. Think of it as being the kind of guest your nan would approve of – tidy, polite, and always leaving with a “thanks!” From picking up stray rubbish to choosing eco-conscious accommodation, small choices can have a ripple effect. It’s not just about reducing your footprint – it’s about being a thoughtful guest in our shared backyard. After all, no one wants their favourite secret beach ruined by someone else’s chip packets.
The Joy of Slow Travel
In a world that often feels rushed, summer holidays invite us to slow down. Take the scenic route, savour long conversations, and spend time soaking in the view (bonus points if it’s through sunglasses smudged with sunscreen). Slow travel is kinder to the planet and to ourselves, offering a chance to recharge and reconnect. It’s not about how far you go but how deeply you experience each moment. Besides, there’s nothing like a pit stop for hokey pokey ice cream to remind you why slow is better.
Game On: Travel Entertainment, the Sustainable Way
When the road stretches on or the weather isn’t playing ball, the Getting Lost Game comes to the rescue. With themes like Adventurers, Walkers, and even Campervan, there’s a version for every type of traveller. It’s a screen-free way to create unforgettable detours and giggles – because who doesn’t need a random treasure hunt or a walk with quirky directions? Plus, it’s a great way to turn a “where the heck are we?” moment into a laugh-out-loud adventure.
Supporting Local Makers and Artisans
When you choose eco-friendly travel essentials, you’re often supporting small, local businesses that put their heart into their craft. It’s like giving a high five to the people who care as much about the planet as you do. Many of these items are made by people who share your values – keeping sustainability and ethical practices at the core of their work. It’s a beautiful reminder that what we choose to buy can align with the kind of world we want to live in. Plus, shopping local means you’re way more likely to find something your mates will say, “Ooh, where’d you get that?”.
Sip and Save the Planet
Long drives and early mornings call for caffeine (or a cheeky iced tea). The Sol coffee cup is your stylish, reusable hero. Made from hand-blown glass, it’s lightweight and durable – perfect for on-the-go adventurers. Fill it at your local café or brew your own before hitting the road. Bonus: no more awkward “just hold the coffee, I’ve got nowhere to put it” moments when the cup fits perfectly in your car’s holder.
While we’re talking about sipping, let’s give a nod to CaliWoods reusable drinking straws. Perfect for everything from your morning smoothie to an evening spritz, these stainless-steel straws are a stylish and sustainable alternative to single-use plastics. They’re lightweight, easy to clean, and also come in a handy to-go pack – because who wants to sip on a drink and swallow the guilt of plastic waste? Pair one with your Sol coffee cup, and you’ve got the ultimate eco-friendly hydration duo for the road. Cheers to that!
Packing with Purpose
Packing for a trip doesn’t just involve what you bring; it’s about why you’re bringing it. Do you really need three pairs of jandals for a weekend at the beach? Probably not. Being mindful of what’s in your bag – and what’s left behind – can make travel simpler and more enjoyable. By choosing multi-purpose, reusable items, you’re not just saving space; you’re also cutting down on waste. Plus, less stuff means more room for the important things, like snacks and maybe a sneaky bottle of sauv blanc.
This summer, let’s embrace travel with purpose. Packing light doesn’t just mean fewer bags – it’s about making conscious choices that are good for you, your wallet, and the environment. Wherever the road takes you, go with eco-friendly essentials that tread gently on our beautiful backyard.
Which of these travel must-haves is coming along on your summer adventure?
