As spring and summer travel plans start to take shape, we’re shining a light on five standout companies that are making sustainability part of the journey. Embracing eco-friendly habits doesn’t mean sacrificing adventure. In fact, these brands prove it can enhance the experience. From responsibly sourced and recycled materials to energy-efficient manufacturing and ethical labor practices, their approach to travel gear is as thoughtful as it is practical.
1. Lo & Sons
Lo & Sons designs travel gear with both practicality and the planet in mind. Their line of backpacks, weekenders, wallets and more blends thoughtful design with a strong commitment to sustainability. The company uses a range of eco-conscious materials, including plant-based fibers, and fabric made from recycled materials, and works with partners who prioritize responsible sourcing and ethical production. They’ve also explored creative ways to reduce waste, such as developing products from upcycled materials and transitioning to recyclable packaging. Their continued efforts extend to how their goods are made, with growing use of renewable energy and clean water systems in production. It’s a holistic approach that shows sustainability can be seamlessly woven into style and function.
2. Owala
Staying hydrated while traveling is essential, but relying on single-use plastic bottles doesn’t have to be part of the routine. Owala offers a range of reusable water bottles made from materials that are BPA-free, lead-free, and phthalate-free. Whether it’s their stainless-steel designs or food-safe plastic tumblers, each product is built to meet or exceed safety standards for everyday use. Owala also actively supports environmental conservation efforts, partnering with organizations focused on promoting reforestation and reducing ocean plastic pollution. Owala’s focus on both function and sustainability makes it easier to keep up healthy habits without adding to plastic waste.
3. Dock & Bay
Dock & Bay repurposes recycled plastic bottles into practical, long-lasting products designed to reduce environmental waste. Their recycled towels are certified under the Global Recycling Standard, and they maintain ethical production practices through supplier codes of conduct. The brand’s reusable tote bags are designed with travel in mind; they’re spacious yet compact when folded and offer a convenient alternative to single-use plastic bags. Packaging is fully biodegradable and kept to a minimum to limit waste, and the company offsets the carbon footprint of each item sold. As a certified B Corp and a “Great Place to Work” in the UK, Dock & Bay emphasizes fair, inclusive, and supportive labor practices. They also regularly collaborate with charitable organizations through product partnership and employee volunteer initiatives.
4. Original Duckhead
Original Duckhead aims to challenge throwaway culture in the umbrella industry through thoughtful, sustainable design. They’ve repurposed over 3 million plastic bottles into umbrella canopies and use surplus materials to create reusable bags. Frames are made with high-strength steel for durability, and handles are crafted from FSC-certified birch. Their rPET fabric, made from post-consumer waste, requires less energy and produces fewer emissions than traditional materials. Packaging is recycled and biodegradable, reflecting their focus on reducing waste at every stage. The company is accredited by the Living Wage Foundation and works with suppliers certified for labor rights, safety, and environmental responsibility. They also support circularity through a partnership with R-Coat, turning discarded umbrellas into wearable accessories. When you’re on the move, rain is often part of the journey. Having a well-made, reliable umbrella can make all the difference, and Original Duckhead makes sure that staying dry doesn’t come at the planet’s expense.
5. Paravel
Paravel focuses on reducing the environmental footprint of travel by turning post-consumer plastic bottles into functional, lasting gear. Their bags, luggage, and accessories are made entirely from recycled and upcycled materials, including Ecocraft Canvas®, a blend of natural cotton and recycled plastic, and Negative Nylon®, a water-resistant fabric made from 100% post-consumer bottles. Even the vegan leather accents contain recycled content. Paravel doesn’t stop at materials: they’ve developed the world’s first carbon-neutral suitcase and offset emissions from every stage of the product lifecycle, including an estimated first plane trip with the product. Climate Neutral certified since 2021, they also support reforestation and conservation efforts through a partnership with Eden Restoration Projects. It’s an approach that considers not just what we carry when we travel, but how we choose to move through the world.
Sustainable travel doesn’t have to mean sacrificing function, style, or convenience. As these companies show, thoughtful design and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand, whether you’re packing lighter, reducing waste, or simply choosing products that last.
To explore more on sustainable travel, take a look at our Veerless insights in Sustainability on the Move: Lessons from Scandinavian Travel, and don’t miss the National Geographic article, How to Travel Better: A Beginner’s Guide to Sustainable Travel.