How to be Sustainable on Vacation: 10 Easy Ways to Travel Responsibly

Easy Ways to Be Sustainable On Your Next Vacation

Who doesn’t love taking a vacation? Vacations give us a much-needed respite from our usual routine and everyday stressors. Unfortunately, it can be easy to make less than sustainable choices while on vacation without even realizing it. The tourism industry has become largely unsustainable, often having a negative effect on the people and places we visit. If you’re wondering how to be sustainable on vacation, then you’ve come to the right place.

Below, we’ll break down 10 easy ways to be a sustainable traveler so you can enjoy your vacation without having a negative impact.

What is Sustainable Travel?

Sustainable travel is traveling in a way that lessens your impact on the places you’re visiting. Sustainable travel aims to support both the people and environment of any given destination.

There are numerous ways you can be a more sustainable traveler, but it essentially means being conscious of your actions while on vacation. This can look like staying at an eco-friendly hotel or choosing to shop at a local, sustainable boutique.

Sustainable travel doesn’t need to be complicated. If you make sustainable choices in your everyday life, try to do the same while on vacation.

Why You Should Consider Responsible Travel

With travel more accessible than ever, many popular tourist destinations have begun to pay the price, resulting in overtourism. Overtourism is when a place experiences too many tourists at once and has a harmful effect. This has become increasingly common, with many popular destinations experiencing rising prices, environmental damage, exploitative labor, and locals being pushed out.

When traveling, what we do matters. From the resources we consume, to the places we stay, to the tours we book, and the businesses we give our money to, each choice we make can either have a positive or negative effect on a place.

Choosing to be more sustainable on vacation ensures that the places we visit aren’t harmed or changed by tourism and can be enjoyed for years to come.

10 Easy Ways to be Sustainable on Vacation:

Bring Reusable Items

One of the easiest ways to be more sustainable on vacation is to pack your reusable items. While traveling, reducing plastic consumption can become difficult. Whether you’re purchasing water bottles while sightseeing, or other plastic-wrapped, single-use items, this can add up on a trip.

A good rule of thumb while traveling is to pack any reusable items you use on a daily basis. This will cut down on your plastic consumption and help you travel more sustainably.

This may look like bringing a reusable water bottle and refilling it at your accommodation or restaurant. You could also use reusable containers as packing cubes and then use them to pack lunch on the road or pick up takeout.

2. Avoid Buying Travel-Size Items

Another easy way to be a more sustainable traveler is to resist buying travel-size items for your trip. While this feels more convenient and lessens your overall baggage weight, it’s generally a wasteful practice. Most travel-size items are packaged in plastic and will be disposed of by the end of your trip.

Instead, consider packing the full-size toiletries you use daily. If you need new items, purchase zero-waste toiletries. Shampoo, conditioner, and lotion all come in zero-waste bars now, which are perfect for traveling.

These bars can even be packed in your carry-on since they aren’t liquid. They also weigh less than liquid toiletries and don’t contain plastic.

3. Pack Sustainably

What we bring with us on vacation can either increase or decrease our carbon footprint, especially our microplastic pollution. Prioritize packing sustainable clothing, and toiletries as well as using eco-friendly luggage if you have it.

You don’t have to bring or buy an entirely sustainable wardrobe to make an impact, however. A little goes a long way. Consider what things you’ll wear the most, and prioritize sustainable options for those items.

For example, if you’re going on a beach vacation, your sustainable swimsuit will probably get the most use and have a greater impact. If you’re heading on a trek through the mountains, then sustainable activewear may be the most important item to pack.

Swapping just a few items for ones made from sustainable materials will still make a difference.

4. Choose Eco-Friendly Methods of Transportation

One of the best things about vacation is that transportation becomes a form of sightseeing. This means eco-friendly methods of transportation can actually be more fun. Walking throughout the city is not just sustainable; it’s a great way to get to know your surroundings.

Taking the train or bus is an easy way to hop around while lowering your carbon footprint and still soaking up your surroundings. If you’re short on time and need to take a car, choose locally-owned transportation companies or hire a local driver.

Unfortunately, flying is the least sustainable form of transport. It’s also a necessity to get to many destinations. If your schedule allows and you’re heading somewhere accessible by train, bus, or car, consider choosing those forms of transport over flying.

If you need to fly, most airlines now offer the opportunity to offset the emissions. Google Flights will even show which flight has the least amount of emissions, so you choose the more sustainable option when possible.

5. Support Local Businesses

One of my favorite ways to be sustainable on vacation is to support local businesses. Many travelers tend to shop, stay and eat at the same chain restaurants as they do at home. Not only does this not support the local economy, but it also prevents you from getting the true local experience while on vacation.

Prioritize stepping out of your comfort zone and instead choosing to support local businesses. Taste local food at family-owned restaurants or restaurants that use locally grown ingredients.

Buy your souvenirs from locally-owned storefronts. Check out handmade goods, sustainable local boutiques, or thrift shops.

6. Choose Locally-Owned, Sustainable Accommodation

When it comes to choosing where to stay on vacation, there are a few things to look for as a sustainable traveler.

Look for family-run, locally-owned accommodation. These will typically be boutique hotels, bed, and breakfasts, or guest houses. Avoid staying in chain hotels or resorts. These properties tend to contribute to gentrification and rising prices. They also typically don’t use sustainable business practices.

If you’re looking to stay in a rental property like Airbnb, try to book from a local host and avoid any properties that are run by third-party companies.

Lastly, look for an accommodation that implements eco-friendly practices, like sustainable bedding, water-saving showerheads, composting, or energy-efficient lighting.

Many booking platforms now allow you to filter by sustainable or eco-friendly properties. You can also use eco-friendly booking sites like Fairbnb to find sustainable accommodation.

Just make sure that the eco-friendly accommodation you’re considering is transparent about the sustainable measures they’re taking so you can avoid greenwashing.

7. Travel During Off-Season

When popular destinations get too many crowds during peak season, and none during the rest of the year, this causes instability for the locals that live there. Many businesses are forced to close during the off-season, which isn’t sustainable long-term. Plus, the cost of living may spike artificially during the high season, while crowds make it difficult for locals to go about their daily lives.

Choosing to travel during the off-season is a great way to be a more sustainable traveler.

Plus, it has numerous benefits: fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and a more local experience.

Research the high and low seasons of the destinations you want to visit and plan your vacation outside of peak season. This is one of the best ways to combat overtourism as it gives destinations a break during high season but consistent tourism dollars year-round.

8. Choose Locally-Run Tours

If you like to do tours while on vacation, try to choose sustainable, locally-led tours. In most popular destinations, there are large, chain, or internationally-owned tour companies. Many of these companies monopolize the tourism industry, easily getting the majority of customers by partnering with chain hotels or having kiosks at airports.

While it can be convenient to book with the first company you see, take the time to research your options.

Look for locally-led tour companies or tour guides, as well as sustainably run tours. This is especially important if you’re choosing an activity that involves interacting with the natural environment or animals.

If you’re traveling in a city, research free walking tours. Most major cities offer these, and they are led by local experts that are so passionate about their city they are willing to lead you around for free. These tours will give you local insight and (through your tips) support locals directly.

Lastly, if you have the option to work with a female tour guide, choose to do so. Female tour guides are largely underrepresented in the tourism industry.

9. Stay Longer

When traveling sustainably, consider the amount of time you’re staying in each destination. If you’re planning to hop to several different places in a short time frame, chances are, this isn’t very sustainable. When we travel this way, we tend to check off the most popular tourist attractions and do not have enough time to support local businesses.

If you’re able to stay longer, do so. This will allow you to have a more local experience, spend more money at local businesses, and lessen your carbon footprint by cutting down on the amount of transport you’re taking.

If you only have a few days for vacation, consider choosing one location over several. If you really want to hop around, choose places that are close together or that don’t require taking additional flights.

10. Be Mindful of Your Consumption

When we’re on vacation and not staying in our own homes, it can sometimes feel like a hall pass to do whatever we want. It may be tempting to take long baths in the hotel tub, get a fresh towel each day, or leave the AC and the lights on.

Unfortunately, what we consume on vacation still adds up. Choosing eco-friendly accommodations that take measures to conserve resources can be a great way to minimize your impact. Packing your reusable items will also help you cut down on waste.

Overall, try to be mindful of your consumption of resources like water, electricity, and plastic while on vacation.

About the Author

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel tips and guides.

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Minimalist Packing for Easy, Sustainable Travel

Traveling is often unsustainable, and although some people choose not to travel at all, most of us cannot or simply do not want to. And that is okay!

There are things we can do to mitigate our environmental footprint while traveling, including packing light and choosing to bring items that will help us reduce our waste on the go.

However, while leaving for a trip is usually very exciting, packing can be both annoying and stressful when we don’t know what to bring with us. It is especially true if you are someone striving to live more sustainably and you also want to reap all the benefits of traveling light!

Thanks to this guide, you will learn how to pack only the essentials to enjoy your trip and lower your impact on the planet at the same time.

Also see How to be Sustainable on Vacation: 10 Easy Ways to Travel Responsibly

Why you should travel light

Traveling light is one of the best ways to ensure you will have an enjoyable and stress-free vacation.

When you travel with several suitcases and backpacks full to the brim, getting to your destination is usually very unpleasant and tiring. The weight of your luggage is exhausting and can become a burden for many reasons.

Imagine yourself hauling all this weight from plane to subway, needing to carry it multiple times on stairs. Having a heavy load to lug around is not how I like to start my vacation!

Plus, when you have extra suitcases while traveling by plane, you have to wait after your flight to get them back. And if luck is not on your side, the airline might lose your luggage, leaving you stressed-out and without your things for at least several days.

Many airlines also make you pay to bring checked luggage on the plane, and if some of your suitcases are overweight, you might have to pay even more. The costs of traveling with heavy baggage quickly add up!

On the other hand, when you only bring the essentials with you in a simple backpack or carry-on, everything is so much easier! You save time and money, and the whole process of traveling becomes a lot more hassle-free. You worry less about your things and get to enjoy your vacation more.

Packing light is also better for the planet! Having fewer and lighter suitcases on the airplane directly reduces its weight, thus increasing its fuel efficiency: when the airplane becomes less heavy, it needs less fuel to fly a given distance.

According to Finnish airline Finnair, when you reduce the weight of your luggage by 5kg, you reduce your carbon footprint by approximately 5%. While the impact might not be huge for a single individual, every little action for the planet is worth it!

Finnair also calculated that if each of its passengers had traveled with 1kg less in 2018, the total fuel savings would have covered 20 flights from Finland to Japan. So when all the individual actions add up, packing light truly makes a difference!

And if you are traveling by car, packing light also increases fuel efficiency, meaning that you will consume less gas, which saves money and the environment.

So next time you prepare for a trip, remember that packing light will make traveling not only more enjoyable but also better for your wallet and the planet! Ask yourself if you really need to bring a big suitcase, or if a backpack or a carry-on is enough.

What luggage should you travel with?

Depending on the kind of trip you are going on, how many days you will stay at the destination, how you will be traveling and what you need to bring with you, you will need different types of luggage.

Where to find sustainable suitcases and backpacks?

Whether you choose to travel with a backpack and a carry-on, a checked suitcase, or a simple duffle bag, always use what you already own. Buying a new backpack or suitcase when you already have one at home is not sustainable.

However, things can get damaged while traveling, so you sometimes need to acquire new travel gear. You can do it in a sustainable way by borrowing a backpack or a suitcase from a friend or getting it second-hand. And you can also purchase it from eco-friendly brands that sell high-quality, sustainable luggage.

If you are looking for a new suitcase, backpack or duffle bag, Paravel has everything you may need! It is a climate-neutral brand that creates luggage using recycled materials and Oeko-Tex certified fabrics.

Solgaard’s suitcases and Samsonite’s Theorym Carry-On Spinner are two other eco-friendly options made from recycled plastic. And if you need a new backpack or duffle bag, Lo & Sons, Allégorie and Anchal all have a nice selection of sustainably and ethically made bags that are worth checking out!

We have an entire blog post about our favorite sustainable luggage brands on Sustainably Chic if you need more ideas!

Other useful travel gear

Whenever I go on a trip, I usually pack my clothes in packing cubes. These are great suitcase organizers that help keep everything tight and compact, which saves a lot of space. It always blows my mind how many things you can fit into a single packing cube!

However, most packing cubes we can find on the market usually break very quickly and they are made of synthetic materials.

Fortunately, some sustainable brands like Northern Olive, Kathmandu and Patagonia sell practical models using eco-friendly materials, like organic cotton and recycled polyester.

And if you need a new toiletry bag to pack all your make-up and beauty products for your next trip, read our full blog post about where to find sustainable make-up bags. For instance, Mayamam Weavers and Terra Thread have some cool, eco-friendly travel cases that will fit all your beauty essentials!

Packing the essentials for a zero-waste, minimalist trip

Only bring what you will really use

If you want to travel light, you cannot pack things for every occasion that may arise on your trip. If you do so, you will end up returning home and only having used half of your stuff.

But at the same time, you have to make sure that you’ll have enough so that you won’t need to repurchase anything at your destination.

It can be hard to know exactly what you will need, but the key is to be realistic with yourself. If you never wear dresses in your everyday life, you are very unlikely to start wearing them while traveling.

Look at the weather forecast at your destination to know what type of clothes you should pack. If it will be sunny all the time, you can leave your rain boots, raincoat and umbrella at home. Alternatively, if it will rain during your whole trip, do not pack a sun hat or sunglasses.

Also, think about what activities you will do. Will you be hiking in nature all day? Walking in the city? Are you going on a business trip? Depending on what you plan to do, you won’t need to bring certain items of clothing. You can also decide whether you will wear a lot of make-up or if you want to go without.

I always plan my outfits in advance before packing a suitcase. Choosing which clothes I will wear on which day helps me determine exactly what I will need. I sometimes pack an extra t-shirt or pair of underwear just in case, but that is it.

I also recommend that you check if the place you are staying at provides towels and a blowdryer. If it does, you won’t need to bring yours.

If you are traveling abroad, your passport is an absolute essential to have. But you may also need to bring a power adapter, so bring yours to avoid buying another at your destination. These do not take up a lot of space!

And do not forget to think about what you will do during your free time when you won’t be visiting. Be realistic with yourself and decide whether you want to bring a book or a computer. If you are traveling with kids, only pack a few toys you know they love so that they do not get bored, but don’t bring too many of them.

When you are on the fence about something, always ask yourself: can I do without? What can I use instead? These two questions will help you not overpack and be more intentional with what you bring on your trip.

Pack versatile and multipurpose items

When packing your suitcase, you will have to assess how many pieces of clothes you need to bring on your trip. Unfortunately, there is no magic number. It all depends on the weather, how many days you are staying, and if you will be able to do laundry during your trip.

For instance, if you are leaving for a week and will have access to a washing machine, you can easily pack three or four tops and it should be enough.

To limit the number of clothes we bring on a trip, one of the most important things to do is to pack versatile and multipurpose pieces. It means that you should choose clothes that complement each other and that can be layered and mixed and matched.

For example, whenever I’m traveling, I usually pack a few neutral-colored bottoms so that each can easily be worn with all of my tops. And I avoid bringing clothes that can only be worn with a single piece.

Multipurpose clothing can also be worn for multiple occasions. For instance, if you are going on vacation in the summer and want a cool, relaxed outfit for the day as well as a more dressed-up option for going out in the evening, you need to pack a little black dress in your suitcase!

If you plan to walk a lot during your trip, a simple pair of sneakers might be enough for you and you may find you do not need to pack bulky hiking boots.

I also recommend that you roll all your clothes instead of folding them. Doing so usually keeps them wrinkle-free and saves more space.

Do not forget your zero-waste essentials

I find that whenever I am traveling, I usually create a lot more waste than when I am at home. It is more difficult to find zero-waste options when we are in a place we do not know, especially if it is abroad.

We do not necessarily know how to say “no plastic bag” or “no straw, please” in a foreign language. So if your goal is to reduce your waste when traveling, having a zero-waste kit with you is essential.

First of all, if there is safe drinking water at your destination, you should always bring your reusable water bottle with you. You will be able to refill it at the place you're staying or at a restaurant.

Some cities even have public fountains with drinking water, so there is no need to purchase plastic bottles! While these can usually be recycled, it is harder to find recycling bins when traveling and they are very wasteful anyway. Tap water is free so you’ll end up saving a few dollars each day, which you will be able to spend on something else.

If you are used to ordering food or drinks on the go, you might also want to bring a reusable coffee cup, a cutlery set and a reusable straw. Plus, if you rarely finish your meals at the restaurant, consider having a reusable container to store your leftovers.

A few cotton napkins and tote bags also always come in handy when traveling! Having a reusable napkin with you means that you won’t need to use the disposable ones at restaurants.

And you will find that tote bags can be used for many purposes! For example, you can go shopping with them instead of using single-use plastic or paper bags. You can also use them for storing your dirty clothes or even for keeping your recycling until you find a recycling bin.

This one is not for everyone, but if you can sew, pack a small sewing kit in your suitcase. It might be useful if you get a hole in your clothing or if a button falls off your shirt.

Of course, you do not have to bring all these zero-waste items on your trip. Only choose those you know you will use. If you never drink coffee or tea on the go, there is no point in bringing a reusable to-go cup with you.

Bring some zero-waste beauty products

Many brands and stores want us to think that we need travel-sized beauty products when we are traveling. Yes, bringing a tiny bottle of shampoo with us may be convenient, but it is also extremely wasteful to buy such products!

Travel-sized products almost always come in plastic packaging, and we can only use them a few times before we run out of them. Hotels, and even Airbnbs, also regularly provide their guests with tiny bottles of shower gel, shampoo and conditioner.

As an eco-conscious traveler, you can easily say no to all those wasteful products. If you already have samples you got in hotels in the past, use them up, but do not accept them anymore in the future.

Instead, go for solid bars whenever you can: you can find a solid option for many products these days, from basic soap to shampoo and conditioner to lotion and deodorant! I highly recommend the brand Ethique, which is a certified B Corp that sells all kinds of solid bars for the body and hair. It even has some smaller bars specially made for traveling!

For oral hygiene, bring a simple bamboo toothbrush as well as toothpaste tablets or toothpaste packaged in a metal tube. If you will be on your period during your trip, do not forget to pack a menstrual cup or some reusable pads.

You might also want to bring a natural, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable razor, and a few reusable make-up remover pads with a small container of coconut oil. The sustainable brand Kind Humans has almost all of these products, so you should check it out!

And if you need to stock up on make-up before leaving, take a look at Elate Cosmetics (use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC for 10% off): it has a great selection of cruelty-free, eco-friendly make-up!

Final thoughts

Traveling light truly enhances the whole experience and helps you enjoy your trip even more. However, if you realize that you’ve packed more than necessary or created some waste along the way, don’t beat yourself up. No one is perfect!

With each trip, you will get better at packing and only bringing the things that you need and use and that will help you reduce your waste while traveling.

About the Author:

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle.

She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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A Guide to Ecotourism

As people are becoming more and more conscious about their impact on the planet, many have started making small changes to become more sustainable. For instance, many have been trying to reduce their environmental footprint while traveling, whether internationally or in their own country.

Global tourism has increased exponentially during the second half of the 20th century. Although it is the primary source of employment and income in many regions, it is also very unsustainable, widely contributing to climate change and global warming.

Fortunately, little by little, people have been showing interest in alternative ways of discovering the world. Eco-conscious travelers want to combine their love for traveling and the environment, and they are willing to learn how they can help protect the places they are visiting. They want to be part of the solution, not contribute to the problem.

That is why ecotourism has started to gain popularity in recent years, and more and more people are now enjoying this more eco-friendly way of traveling.

This blog post will help you understand what ecotourism is and why it is so important in a world where mass tourism is everywhere. You will also learn about our 11 favorite destinations for ecotourism and maybe get inspired to visit them yourself!

What is ecotourism?

Before defining what ecotourism is, we should start by explaining what it is not. Ecotourism is not the same as sustainable tourism or sustainable travel, which are both broader concepts.

While ecotourism is a very specific type of sustainable tourism, sustainable travel or tourism encompasses all kinds of tourism that take into account its long-term social, environmental and economic impact.

The term “sustainable travel” also describes all the sustainable practices implemented while traveling or in the tourism industry in general.

On the other hand, according to the International Ecotourism Society, ecotourism refers to “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education”.

Similarly, the United Nations World Tourism Organization defines ecotourism as “all nature-based forms of tourism in which the main motivation of the tourists is the observation and appreciation of nature as well as the traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas”.

In other words, this low-impact form of tourism involves traveling to fragile, relatively untouched natural areas to support conservation efforts, minimize the negative impact of tourism, and learn more about the local environment and cultural heritage.

The tour operators and accommodation providers at the destination are usually small, locally-owned businesses that have a low environmental footprint. So ecotourism directly provides employment and income for local communities, and it helps raise awareness towards conservation both among locals and tourists.

Why ecotourism is so important

If you enjoy traveling, you’ve probably already visited a place where mass tourism or over-tourism is an important issue.

The impact of mass tourism can be seen on a global scale. It is estimated that tourism generates about 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with transport, food and shopping being some of the main contributors.

What’s even worse is that, because of the quick increase in tourism demand, experts project that this industry will be contributing even more to the world’s greenhouse gas emissions in the future.

But to evaluate the entire impact of mass tourism, we also need to look elsewhere. Having too many people visiting a destination causes many other issues, including land degradation, pollution, deforestation and biodiversity loss.

It leads to the overconsumption of natural resources and overproduction of waste, and it puts infrastructure under enormous strain. Overtourism also automatically increases rents and house prices at the destination, raising the cost of living for locals.

On the contrary, ecotourism involves minimizing the negative impact of travel. It contributes to the conservation of ecosystems and natural areas and the sustainable development and empowerment of local communities.

This low-impact form of tourism creates economic value by providing job opportunities and funds to protect the land and its inhabitants. It helps preserve nature, cultural heritage and the people living and working at the destination.

Ecotourism is also about raising awareness and educating people to take care of our Earth. Ecotourists learn about new environments and how they are affected by humans, and they get to understand how fragile the whole planet is.

There are different forms of sustainable and responsible tourism, and ecotourism is just one of them. But it is crucial that more and more people try this alternative way of traveling instead of contributing to mass tourism yet again.

Our top 11 destinations for ecotourism (& what to do and see there):

1) Alaska

The Last Frontier, Alaska, has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the United States. You can visit and explore more than a hundred national parks and state parks with incredible nature that is still fairly untouched. Ecotourists enjoy this state as they can go on hikes through the mountains, admire the Northern Lights, explore glaciers and rainforest sanctuaries, as well as venture out on whale-watching excursions. With its impressive collection of archeological artifacts, the University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks covers everything you may want to learn about the history of Alaska, its wildlife and its native people and culture.

There are also numerous ecolodges running on alternative power sources where you can stay, but you can also choose to camp in the wilderness!

2) Borneo

Borneo is an island divided between Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei, and it has some of the world’s oldest virgin rainforests.

The island is a true haven for ecotourists: their favorite activities in Borneo are soft trekking in the rainforest, climbing mountains, visiting wildlife sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers, as well as diving and snorkeling.Borneo is home to many endangered species that visitors can see in their natural habitats, including the Bornean orang-utan, the Hose’s palm civet, the pygmy elephant and the Sunda clouded leopard.

If you visit the island, you will get the opportunity to learn about the traditions of the Dayak people and their indigenous culture. You will also be able to find small ecolodges built using local materials or even stay with a local Bornean family.

3) Costa Rica

Costa Rica is probably one of the most renowned countries for ecotourism. Travelers wanting to get more in touch with nature have been exploring it for decades.

Costa Rica’s rich fauna and flora make up about 5% of the world’s biodiversity, which is huge for such a small country! Plus, one-fourth of its territory is protected by the National System of Conservation Areas.

From pristine forests and immaculate beaches to breathtaking volcanoes and stunning waterfalls, visitors get to enjoy its incredible natural wonders. They can also learn about ancient civilizations and Costa Rican culture at the National Museum.

Ecotourists can book their stay in some of the country’s numerous ecolodges where they will admire spectacular views of the jungle. Some are so remote that they are only accessible by boat!

4) Sweden

Wanting to attract responsible travelers, Sweden was the second country in the world to come up with an ecotourism charter, and it now has more than a hundred eco-certified tour operators that have to follow a strict code of conduct.

There are many things you can do in Sweden to enjoy nature without harming it. The country has approximately 400 hiking trails and 30 national parks scattered around the territory. You can also go timber rafting if you want to have a truly unique experience!

The Swedish Lapland, near the Arctic Circle, is incredible to admire waterfalls, glacial rivers, mountains and forests. You can also learn about the indigenous Sami people, and if you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

5) Colorado

In the middle of the Rocky Mountains, the state of Colorado alone has 13 national parks and 42 state parks, making it the ideal getaway for any traveler wanting to explore the great outdoors and support the conservation of these ecosystems. Visiting Colorado gives you the opportunity to go hiking or mountain biking all while admiring the abundant wildlife.

Rafting in river canyons and exploring the Garden of the Gods, some impressive sandstone formations, are two other great adventures to go on when in Colorado.

You can also learn a lot about the local indigenous culture and history by visiting the Koshare Indian Museum or the Ute Indian Museum.

Ecotourists may even choose to join the Colorado Trail Foundation to help preserve and restore trails in the mountains!

6) New Zealand

New Zealand is a go-to destination for all ecotourism lovers. Forests, reserves and national parks cover 20% of the country’s territory, allowing travelers to enjoy the beauty of nature all while becoming aware of its fragile ecosystems. One of New Zealand’s highlights is Mount Cook National Park, where visitors can hike on trails overlooking beautiful mountains, turquoise lakes and breathtaking glaciers. Travelers should also go to Rotorua, at the heart of the North Island’s geothermal region. After discovering the geothermal springs, geysers & boiling mud pools, they can attend a Maori cultural performance to learn more about the local traditions.

New Zealand has countless ecolodges all around its territory, hosting visitors even in the country’s biggest city, Auckland!

7) Botswana

Botswana is home to some of the most stunning animals in the world. Far less visited than other major African destinations like South Africa or Kenya, the country has amazing national parks and reserves where you can observe wildlife without disturbing it.

For instance, ecotourists can stay at an ecolodge in Chobe National Park.

From there, they can take safari trips in silent electric cars to admire the fauna, including many endangered species.

The combination of conservation efforts and ecotourism has contributed to the survival of giraffes in the park, whereas their number is declining in many other regions in Africa.

When in Botswana, you can also visit the incredible Okavango Delta and the Mokolodi nature reserve, two natural wonderlands for animal lovers!

8) Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Located in the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands are a true “living museum and showcase of evolution”. With this reputation, it is not surprising that many eco-tourists dream of visiting this unique place! From giant tortoises to land iguanas to many types of finch, the Galapagos Islands have such an incredibly abundant and unusual wildlife that it inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution!

There are many cool activities you can do in the Galapagos Islands: you can go on hikes, observe the unique fauna and flora, dive or snorkel in the ocean, and even walk to the Sierra Negra, an active volcano that erupted in 2018!

To ensure its preservation, only a limited number of visitors can enter the islands’ National Park, so if you plan on visiting, remember to book in advance.

9) Bhutan

This small country located in the Himalayan mountains has been very successful at preserving its culture and natural environment. Forests cover 70% of the territory, and 51% of Bhutan is actually protected. The state even requires visitors to pay a daily tax to help preserve its nature. Bhutan is the perfect place to visit for ecotourism: there are many eco-trips organized for travelers willing to discover this landlocked country! Most of them take you to explore the beautiful Jigme Dorji National Park or visit the numerous ornate temples and ancient monasteries. Bhutan has many archaeological treasures and a huge diversity of plants and animals!

Plus, many people living in remote villages host travelers, so staying in their homes is a great option to support local populations and fully immerse yourself in the culture while preserving the environment.

10) Iceland

Ecotourism has become more and more popular in Iceland thanks to all its breathtaking natural wonders. The island is actually one of the world’s most eco-friendly countries: it is great at protecting its vulnerable ecosystems, and it produces almost 100% of its electricity using renewable energy.

If you travel to Iceland, you will enjoy everything it has to offer. You will be able to go on hikes, see the Northern Lights, walk-on dormant volcanoes or even book an excursion to go whale watching.

You can also visit ice caves and bathe in natural hot springs. Iceland has many waterfalls, raging rivers, glaciers and countless geysers.

Ecotourists can easily find places to camp in nature, but they can also choose to stay in eco-hotels or lodges for extra comfort.

11) Rwanda

Rwanda is an African country with many natural treasures and abundant biodiversity, attracting more and more travelers from all around the world.

Ecotourism in the country has been contributing to the preservation of forests and wildlife for years now.

Travelers can visit Volcanoes National Park and see mountain gorillas, one of the world’s most endangered species. Since ecotourism has been generating income for populations, the locals are encouraged to help protect the primates.

Plus, Rwanda is home to the largest protected mountain rainforest in Africa, the Nyungwe forest. Ecotourists also enjoy exploring Akagera National Park and Lake Kivu, two natural wonders with spectacular views.

Rwanda has a great selection of ecolodges where travelers can stay to appreciate what nature has to offer, all while preserving it.

final thoughts

In each of these ecotourism destinations, there are many things you can do to have fun all while preserving the environment!

As an ecotourist, you are supporting conservation efforts and the local economy. Your dollars go to small, local businesses that provide employment and income for the population. You are also choosing to learn about nature and the local culture and visit places in a more sustainable way.

However, some destinations might be far away from where you live. So if you want to visit them but also wish to minimize your impact, consider offsetting the carbon footprint of your trip.

But whatever destination you choose to travel to and if you try to travel more sustainably along the way, you are contributing to the development of an alternative form of tourism. One that is better for the planet and the locals at the destination.

About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Shower Curtains

Whether you’re trying to get your mom on board with sustainable products, but she really loves a familiar brand name (read: my mom and Pottery Barn), or you’re in-the-know about all things OEKO-TEX®, there’s a sustainable shower curtain out there for you.

Why Should you Buy a Sustainable Shower Curtain?

Most conventional shower curtains are made from plastic (like PVC), which can be very toxic. Chemicals like phthalates, lead, organotins and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be released into the air causing harm to our health. Today, we can completely avoid this by purchasing non-toxic shower curtains that are good for the planet and our bodies.

What to Look for When Shopping Shower Curtains

There are many different eco-friendly fabrics used today for shower curtains. You can choose hemp, cotton, recycled polyesters and PVC-free plastics. I understand aesthetic is always important when designing the rooms in your home, so we made sure to find ones you would love!

Should You Keep Your Current Shower Curtain?

As with all things, the most sustainable option is the one you already own (and it’s also the least expensive!), but we totally understand wanting to create a more safe, healthy environment. We also know that when it’s time to usher in a new sustainable product to your life, there are a ton of options. Hopefully, this list can help you narrow it down.

This roundup features a variety of materials, designs, and prices. Bonus: there’s also a sustainable shower curtain *liner* option at the end of this post!

Now, our top picks for sustainable shower curtains:

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1) Nebia Shower Curtain

Brand | Nebia

Price | $119

Material | Recycled Polyester, DWR (durable water repellent) Coating

This might be the last shower curtain you ever buy. The Nebia Shower Curtain was created to last for over ten years! It was tested to simulate a family of three using the curtain by opening, closing, grabbing, and pulling it 21,900 times - and it held up! The curtain itself and the liner are machine washable and anti-shrink; it has anti-billow technology sewn into the fabric and is made from 100% recycled materials. This curtain indeed does the most.

Shop Nebia Shower Curtain

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2) Organic Waffle Shower Curtain

Brand | Coyuchi

Price | $128

Material | 100% Organic Cotton, grown and woven in Turkey

Coyuchi was the first to bring organic cotton bedding to the United States 25 years ago and is GOTS certified. They have also launched their 2nd Home Take Back initiative, which encourages customers to recycle their own Coyuchi products and receive 15% off your next order. These recycled products are then sold through 2nd Home Renewed at discounted prices, helping to close the loop on textile waste.

Shop Waffle Shower Curtain

3) European Flax Linen Shower Curtain

Brand | West Elm

Price |$90-120

Material | European Flax

For a luxurious upgrade to your bathroom, linen is a great option! We love that West Elm uses many eco-friendly fabrics while also utilizing Fair Trade Certified manufacturing.

Shop Linen Shower Curtain

4) Waffle Shower Curtain

Brand | Boll & Branch

Price |$108

Material | Organic Cotton

Inspired by their bestselling Waffle Bed Blanket, the Waffle Shower Curtain adds texture to your bathroom with its micro-waffle design. They use high-quality threads from the finest long-staple, GOTS-certified, 100% organic cotton.

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5) Willow Floral Organic Cotton Shower Curtain

Brand | Pottery Barn

Price | $79

Material | 100% Organic Cotton

For all those ride-or-die Pottery Barn people out there, make sure to use the site's filter options for “organic”, “sustainably sourced”, “certified nontoxic”, and “Fair Trade” as you browse for products! Yay for making it easier to find sustainable products amongst the masses! This shower curtain is GOTS certified.

Shop Willow Floral Shower Curtain

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6) Loktak Shower Curtain

Brand | The Citizenry

Price | $115

Material | 100% cotton

The Citizenry focuses on transparency, high standards, and fair-trade practices. They are partners with Kerala Workshop in India, where their products are woven by hand. When you click to buy their shower curtain, you learn about the artisans that worked to create the piece. Thirty-two artisans work at Kerala Workshop, with nearly half being over the age of 50. The Citizenry ensures a fair-trade environment that goes above and beyond, with artisans earning 2x the average fair-trade wage.

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7) Turkish Shower Curtain

Brand | Parachute Home

Price | $99

Material | 100% Turkish cotton

These shower curtains are Oeko-Tex certified and made in Turkey. In addition to incredible products, Parachute offers an incredible program. Their Home for Dreams initiative is “ a mentorship and grant program designed to support Black-owned businesses.” The program offers $25k grants, brand amplification, and mentorship about a variety of topics.

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8) The Beacon Shower Curtain

Brand | Quiet Town

Price | $198

Material | 100% Cotton Canvas

This couple-owned brand is sustainably conscious and always working toward portraying that with their products, packaging (which is moving toward being 100% compostable), production, & end of life. Another incredible accomplishment of theirs is that a majority of the shower curtain making process all happens within 200 miles - from growing to dyeing to sewing to fulfilling orders, it’s all happening right here in the USA.

Shop The Beacon Shower Curtain

9) Waterproof Linen Shower Curtain

Brand | Dusty Linen

Price | $150

Material | Linen

This beauty is made from 100% European stonewashed OEKO-TEX-certified linen. It comes with a durable white waterproof lining, and it comes in several different colors and sizes.

Shop Linen Shower Curtain

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10) Sonny PVC Free Curtain

Brand | Vita Futura

Price | $13.99

Material | PVC free, non-vinyl PEVA

This may not be the most sustainable option on the list, but it’s definitely the most affordable. PEVA, the material of this shower curtain, is PVC-free, non-chlorinated and a highly recyclable plastic; make sure to check with your local recycling facility to see if they’re able to recycle PEVA! PEVA “breaks down more effectively and does not emit the chlorine gases as chlorinated vinyl products sometimes do.” This product is made-to-order bi-weekly in Germany.

Shop Sonny PVC Free Curtain

BONUS - A LINER

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The Sun Shower

Brand | Quiet Town

Price | $38

Material | 100% EVA made in China

Quiet Town, take two! This product can be used as a liner or as a curtain itself if you’re into showering in the sunlight. While EVA Vinyl is non-toxic, it is unfortunately not often recycled properly. So while this may not be the “best-ever”, it’s designed to last way longer than normal plastic liners, which keeps waste out of landfills - and that’s a plus. Quiet Town isn’t satisfied with just keeping liners out of landfills, though. They are currently working on a recycling program specifically for their Sun Shower liners.

Shop The Sun Shower

About the Author

Paige Annelayne is a freelance writer and digital media specialist currently based in Alabama, who loves to cook, learn about intersectional sustainability, and read a lot of books. Her cat, Gnocchi, her plants, and a good cup of matcha bring her joy. You can connect with Paige on Instagram @vitality.blog and at www.vtltyblog.com

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The Best SUSTAINABLE & Non-Toxic SUNSCREENS

Summer usually comes with all the fun outdoor activities, trips to the beach, hikes in nature and picnics in the park. Days are longer, and we can finally absorb some much-needed vitamin D!

But we should also not forget to take extra precautions when exposed to the sun. Long-term, excessive sun exposure without sunscreen can lead to skin damage and premature aging, and in the worst cases, skin cancer.

However, most sunscreens on the market are made with harmful chemicals that are very toxic to human health. Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin, which means that all their toxic ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream. Many of those are known to cause serious health issues, including hormone disruption, allergies, and organ toxicity.

If that wasn’t enough, it is estimated that around 14,000 tons of sunscreen enter the ocean each year, contributing to the bleaching and death of coral reefs. Corals have not only been declining at an alarming rate, but this pollution also negatively impacts the fertility and health of all marine ecosystems.

For all those reasons, we should only buy non-toxic and sustainable sunscreens. To help you find safe and eco-friendly SPF, we have compiled a list of 16 brands selling sunscreens you can feel good about purchasing!

WHAT MAKES SUNSCREEN ECO-FRIENDLY?

When buying a product, we often think about the negative impact the packaging has on the environment. While it is something we should look at when choosing sunscreen, we should before anything else make sure the ingredients are sustainable, ocean-friendly, reef-safe and non-toxic.

Many sustainable brands are selling sunscreens in plastic tubes, but we should still support them if they make their sunscreen with clean ingredients.

Fortunately, more and more have been incorporating greener packaging: you can now find sunscreen packaged in cardboard, bioplastic, glass, or metal.

WHAT SUSTAINABLE INGREDIENTS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

If you are looking for sustainable SPF, go for mineral sunscreens. These are usually formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, which is a mineral sunscreen agent that protects the skin’s outer barrier by reflecting harmful UVA and UVB rays. It is also safe for human health and doesn’t harm coral reefs and marine ecosystems.

Eco-friendly sunscreens also contain other ingredients, but all of them are biodegradable and non-toxic, if not organic. These can include coconut oil, aloe vera, vitamin E, plant oils, shea butter, and any other plant-based ingredient.

In general, always stay away from chemical sunscreens formulated with harmful ingredients like parabens, oxybenzone, benzophenone, avobenzone and octyl methoxycinnamate to name just a few.

OUR TOP PICKS FOR NON-TOXIC, SUSTAINABLE SUNSCREENS:

1) Activist Skincare

Price: $20

Activist Skincare offers SPF 30 tinted mineral sunscreen that doubles as concealer or tinted moisturizer, with four shades from light to deep. These reef-safe, zinc-based formulas come in low-waste packaging that’s easy on the earth—from compostable sticks to minimalist pouches for the ultimate in sustainability.

Enjoy broad-spectrum protection with 80 minutes of water resistance in a creamy, silky texture that blurs imperfections while protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays that cause premature aging.

Ingredients include red raspberry seed, tamanu and manuka oils and organic beeswax, all cruelty-free.

Activist also makes a line of high-performance, refillable skincare products and is a 1% for the Planet member.

use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC for 15% off

Shop Activist Skincare

2) Kinfield

Price: $24

An SPF made for your water adventures, Kinfield’s Daily Dew SPF 35 is a water-resistant moisturizer. This unique formula hydrates skin while protecting your face with 100% mineral, broad-spectrum SPF 35. In addition, ingredients like sea kelp helps moisturize, aloe vera soothes, rice bran extract nourishes, glycerin hydrates, and sunflower extra calms.

Kinfield’s products are cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, phalate-free, and vegan!

use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC15 for 15% off

Shop Kinfield

3) Green Eco Dream

Price: $10-20

Green Eco Dream is a one-stop shop for everything eco-friendly, from home goods to beauty essentials and zero-waste products for on the go. On the company’s website, you can find SPF 30 and 50 sunscreens sold by sustainable brands like All Good and Raw Elements.

Whether you choose a sunscreen spray, butter or lotion, all sunscreens are cruelty-free and formulated with organic ingredients including non-nano zinc oxide. They are also reef-friendly and free of harmful chemicals.

Green Eco Dream is a member of 1% For The Planet, and it is carbon-neutral and certified by Green America. The company also ships its products 100% plastic-free and supports different environmental non-profits like Clean Miami Beach and Plastic Pollution Coalition.

use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC20 for 20% off

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4) Indie Lee

Price: $42

From cleansers to moisturizers, Indie Lee has everything you may need when looking for natural, eco-friendly skincare products. The brand sells an unscented mineral sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection. Made with 20% uncoated zinc oxide, this natural sunscreen is also formulated with shea butter, squalane and aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated.

Indie Lee’s sunscreen dries down clean and can be used on all skin types and tones.

It is free of 1300+ harmful ingredients like parabens and phthalates, and it is Leaping Bunny certified, meaning that it is 100% cruelty-free.

The brand also offers carbon-neutral shipping, and it even takes your empties back so that they can get recycled!

Shop Indie Lee

5) Kindhumans

Price: $6-32

Kindhumans is an ethical marketplace where you can find all kinds of sustainable products, including clothing, home goods, and beauty and skincare products.

The online shop has different types of sunscreens by the brands Raw Elements and MANDA, such as sunscreen lotions, lip balms and sticks.

They are all formulated with non-nano zinc oxide and contain reef-safe, USDA-certified organic ingredients.

Most sunscreens are plastic-free and packaged in metal, cardboard or bioplastic derived from sugarcane. Kindhumans also donates 3% of each purchase to the cause of your choice, including causes that support humanitarian aid, kids or the environment.

The company is a certified B Corporation and a member of 1% For The Planet. It is also climate neutral, and it ships its products in packaging made of recycled materials.

Shop Kindhumans

6) Le Prunier

Price: $78

Le Prunier is a sustainable beauty brand that creates skincare products using organic plums. The fruits are grown, harvested and cold-pressed on a 106-year-old family-owned farm in California.

The brand sells an SPF 31 sunscreen, the Plumscreen®, which combines the skincare benefits of Le Prunier’s beauty oil with broad-spectrum sun protection. The ingredients protect the skin from UV damage, blue light and pollution, and they are all reef-safe.

The Plumscreen is rich in antioxidants and made using 100% upcycled plum kernels, which are a waste byproduct of the plum production. It also received different awards in 2021, including the Shape Magazine’s award for best SPF and the Oprah Daily’s O-award for best SPF for combo skin!

Shop Le Prunier

7) Cocokind

Price: $25

Cocokind is a skincare brand that sells sustainable products for glowy, happy skin. The brand offers two sunscreens that provide hydration as well as protection against UVA and UVB rays and environmental stressors like pollution.

Its mineral-based sunscreen lotion with SPF 32 is made using non-nano zinc oxide, microalgae and blue phytoplankton. These natural ingredients help prevent aging, skin damage and sunburns.

This sunscreen is fragrance-free and ideal for everyday use!

Cocokind also has an SPF 30 hybrid sunscreen, formulated with both mineral and chemical ingredients. This formula works well with blemish-prone skins, and it blends easily into the skin.

Whichever you choose, both sunscreens leave a soft, dewy finish on the skin. You will love that the brand breaks down the carbon footprint of each product on every packaging!

Shop Cocokind

8) Biossance

Price: $30-42

Biossance uses innovative, patented biotechnology to create natural skincare products that are safe for humans, animals and the environment.

The brand sells a sheer broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen that can be used for all skin tones. This SPF 30 sunscreen leaves the skin with a non-greasy, dewy finish, and protects it from harmful UV rays. Biossance’s sunscreen is made using reef-safe and non-toxic ingredients, including 14% non-nano zinc oxide.

It is also formulated with squalane derived from sugarcane to moisturize the skin, as well as water lily which cools and calms the skin after being exposed to the sun.

This mineral sunscreen is vegan, Leaping Bunny certified and verified by the Environmental Working Group. Plus, Biossance offsets the carbon footprint of its entire shipping process!

Shop Biossance

9) 100% Pure

Price: $29-38

100% Pure is a clean beauty brand that makes cruelty-free skincare and makeup pigmented with real fruits. The brand has an SPF 30 sunscreen lotion that protects the skin against UV rays all while nourishing and hydrating it.

100% Pure’s sunscreen is made with mineral zinc oxide and infused with green tea, which has great anti-aging properties. It also contains other beneficial ingredients like vitamin E, aloe juice, cucumber juice and raspberry seed oil.

The brand also sells an SPF 20 moisturizer made with tomato lycopene, as well as an SPF 30 mist produced using Yerba mate tea.

100% Pure has been awarded the Green Business Certification, and with each purchase, it donates part of the proceeds to social and environmental organizations.

Shop 100% Pure

10) bioClarity

Price: $30-35

bioClarity is a skincare brand that creates unique products using plant-based formulas.

The company sells two SPF 30 mineral sunscreens, each made with non-nano zinc oxide.

While they both safeguard skin against UV rays, environmental pollutants and blue light, the SunFilter also doubles as an everyday facial moisturizer to provide lasting hydration.

Both sunscreens are formulated with bioClarity’s proprietary ingredient Floralux®, a blend of chlorophyllin, copper and antioxidants that has been proven to reduce acne and help minimize premature aging.

bioClarity’s sunscreens are designed for blemish-prone skin but they work well on all skin types. They are absorbed quickly without leaving a white cast, and they are reef-safe, non-toxic, vegan and Leaping Bunny certified.

Shop Bioclarity

11) Solara Suncare

Price: $16-64

Solara Suncare is a vegan skincare brand specialized in the production of sunscreens and other suncare products.

It has a large selection of products with SPF 30 or 50 to help protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Whether you choose a sunscreen lotion, stick, mist or serum, each of them contains Solara's proprietary 10-active botanical blend.

Formulated with antioxidants, vitamins, omega 3, 6 and 9, as well as anti-inflammatory ingredients, the brand’s sunscreens will boost your skin’s protective barrier and promote cellular level response after sun exposure.

They are also free of more than 1,500 ingredients banned in the European Union. Solara’s sunscreens are reef-friendly, Leaping Bunny certified and some are even EWG verified!

Shop Solara Suncare

12) Banyan Tree Essentials

Price: $33

Banyan Tree was initially founded to host retreats of rest and rejuvenation in one of its resorts and spas. The brand quickly created its own bath and body line and aromatherapy collection.

Banyan Tree has a natural, non-nano mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 that is formulated to shield skin against sun damage. Made using zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, the sunscreen also contains coconut oil and red seaweed extract which provide hydration and protect cells from free radicals.

The sunscreen is reef-safe and made to minimize its impact on the marine environment. The brand also does not test on animals, and it uses eco-friendly packaging, including fabric wraps made of used plastic bottles and gift boxes handcrafted using mulberry paper.

Shop Banyan Tree Essentials

13) REN Skincare

Price: $40

From moisturizers to shampoos, to serums to toners, REN Skincare has everything you may need for your everyday skincare routine!

The brand sells a mineral SPF 30 sunscreen made for broad-spectrum sun protection. It can be used on most skin types, including sensitive and oily skins.

REN’s sunscreen is formulated with natural ingredients like 22% non-nano zinc oxide.

It also contains rice starch to help mattify the skin, and passionfruit seed extract for a boost of antioxidants to protect the skin from free radicals.

The sunscreen is vegan and made using post-consumer recycled plastic. REN Skincare has been cruelty-free since its creation, and the brand is a partner of the Surfrider Foundation which supports beach cleanups and ocean conservation.

Shop REN Skincare

14) Suntegrity

Price: $24-55

Suntegrity is a brand that creates all kinds of skincare products with SPF 30 and 50. It offers a wide variety of sunscreens that deliver broad-spectrum sun protection: you can choose between sunscreen lotions, sticks and sprays, and it even has several sunscreen moisturizers.

Suntegrity’s mineral sunscreens are formulated with non-nano zinc oxide and are packed with antioxidants and amino acids to help with skin repair. Most of them also contain organic ingredients, and they are all cruelty-free.

The brand uses bioplastic tubes derived from sugarcane for some of its sunscreens, and it even has a refillable option!

Plus, Suntegrity was awarded “Champion” Status by the EWG/Compact for Safe Cosmetics and received an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau.

Shop Suntegrity

15) COOLA

Price: $10-52

COOLA is specialized in the creation of suncare and skincare products using sustainably-sourced, plant-derived ingredients. This company should be your go-to brand whenever you are looking for sunscreen! It has various sunscreens available in different forms, including lotions, lip balms, sprays, serums and sticks.

While most of them have an SPF of 30 or 50, COOLA also has a sunscreen spray and lotion that provide SPF 70 broad-spectrum sun protection. Perfect for long days under the sun!

The brand makes its formulas using at least 70% certified organic ingredients, and they are all vegan, cruelty-free, and reef-safe. COOLA’s sunscreens are free of over 1,000 harmful chemicals, and all their tubes are made of sustainably-sourced sugarcane resin.

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16) Larkly

Price: $17-32

Larkly is an American brand that sells refillable, all-natural SPF 30 sunscreen. The company’s sunscreen is a mineral powder that gives you complete protection from UVA and UVB rays.

It is formulated using natural sunblock ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It also contains green tea, licorice root extract and resveratrol, three antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage.

Larkly’s sunscreen is reef-safe, vegan and cruelty-free. Plus, it does not leave your skin with a greasy or chalky finish.

Larkly’s sunscreen comes in a convenient container with a soft, large brush, making applying the powder very easy and fun! The brand also sells the powder alone so that you do not have to repurchase a new brush every time you run out of sunscreen.

Shop Larkly