When I first started my zero-waste journey, I quickly realised how unprepared I was, constantly forgetting my water bottle or grocery bags. It took time (and it took carrying a lot of groceries in my arms hahaha), but my habits eventually changed for the better!

When juggling kids, work, life and last-minute adventures, you’ll know how easy it is to fall back on convenience. That’s why I wanted to share my top five plastic-free travel must-haves that live in my bag, car or suitcase at all times. They’re simple swaps, but they’ve saved me (and the planet) more times than I can count.

P.s. Did you know that Australians throw away enough packaging each year to fill the Melbourne Cricket Ground nine times. Wild, right? But the good news is, small changes really do add up.

1. Food Storage Without the Waste

It’s time to ditch disposable plastic wrap. Whether you're packing snacks for the kids, prepping lunch for at work or taking leftovers on the road, reusable food storage is a must. I love our Go For Zero silicone pouches, stainless-steel lunch boxes,  storage containers and food wax wraps. The containers and poachers are leak-proof, freezer-safe and built to last, so you can snack sustainably and no plastic is touching your food.

2. Reusable Drink Bottles, Cups and Travel Water Filters

It always blows my mind how many people I see with take-away coffee cups on my morning walk. I wish they printed on these cups that they release 25,000 microplastics in one morning coffee…

So whether you’re staying caffeinated or hydrated, reusable drink ware is a simple swap that makes a big difference. For your health & the planet. 
In case you are still looking for a plastic-free option, we have beautiful glass coffee cups, reusable smoothie tumblers, or our bestselling stainless-steel insulated drink bottles to keep your drinks at the perfect temp and waste-free. No plastic is touching your drinks!

Add an activated charcoal water filter to your bottle for clean, great-tasting water on the go. These trusty filters remove toxins like chlorine and heavy metals from your water, whilst keeping in the good stuff like minerals and salts. 

3. Stylish and Sustainable Packing Cubes

Packing cubes = next-level organisation. These new babies from Mika Creations are handmade from juco, a durable mix of natural jute and cotton designed to keep your bag organised. Perfect for travel, gym bags or even your everyday tote, they’re lightweight, machine-washable and from an all-women, Melbourne-based brand committed to sustainability and ethical practices.

4. Solid Body Care for Mess-Free Travel

At Go For Zero, we love bars over bottles! They can also not explode in your bag or won’t raise any eyebrows at airport security with those liquid limits!  Our solid shampoo, conditioner and body wash bars are compact, long-lasting and perfect for life on-the-go. They’re made from natural ingredients, completely plastic-free, Just toss a couple in a travel tin and you’re good to go!

5. PFAS-Free First Aid That’s Kind to You and the Planet

Blisters, bites, grazes and the odd mozzie attack? Life happens, and Patch should be a travel essential. 

Patch bamboo bandages are free from PFAS, latex and harsh chemicals, making them hypoallergenic and perfect for sensitive skin. Each strip is made from soft, breathable organic bamboo that helps skin heal without irritation. Best of all, they’re completely biodegradable and home compostable. Pop them in your garden and they’ll break down in around 10 weeks. Keep a few in your glove box, backpack or nappy bag so you’re never caught out.

Ready for some Eco-Friendly Traveling? 

With just a few simple swaps, you can cut down your plastic waste and stay organised. So whether you’re hitting the road, heading to work or just getting through the school run, these five waste-free, travel-friendly swaps will keep you prepped, organised and proud of your impact.

Shop our full range of eco-friendly travel essentials here!

With Love, 
Ellie xoxo