By Elaina Verhoff

Summertime is adventure time, and having the right travel gear can pave the way for a smooth, stress-free experience. Whether you’re shopping for sunglasses and shoes, or binoculars and bags, do your research and consider products that minimize their impact on the environment. Sustainable practices, durability, and materials used are all factors to consider. Here are a few eco-friendly travel products to consider as you prepare for summer vacation.

Nocs Binoculars

Pack a pair of compact Nocs binoculars on your next trip and put the power of enhanced bird watching or nature peeping in your pocket! The company’s products are built with replaceable parts, rugged waterproof construction, and a “No-Matter-What” lifetime guarantee. In short, their lightweight binoculars and monoculars are designed to be repaired rather than replaced. Nocs packaging is 100% plastic-free, zero-waste, and made from post-consumer recycled materials and soy-based inks (You can recycle or even safely burn their packaging in a campfire!) The company is a proud member of 1% for the Planet.  nocsprovisions.com

American Optical Original Pilot Sunglasses

Sometimes the best thing we can do for the planet is to say no to fast fashion and invest in pieces that will last a lifetime. If you’re in the market for new sunnies, skip the $10 sunglasses, which are destined for the dumpster, and opt for a quality product like American Optical Original Pilot sunglasses. These shades were originally introduced in 1958 to protect pilots’ eyes with a lightweight metal frame and superior glare protection. The iconic glasses, which traveled to the moon with Apollo 11 astronauts, are built to provide you with the same protection and style for trips across the globe. aoeyewear.com

Sea Bags Tote Bags

Sea Bags aren’t like other bags. They are created using actual sailboat sails that have lived an exciting life on the water and are ready for their second act. The durable cloth is transformed into a variety of nautically inspired tote bags and accessories. The company’s travel collection includes Travel Totes, Duffels & Weekenders, Cosmetic & Toiletry, Crossbody Bags, and Backpacks. The vintage Tote collection features hand-spliced rope handles and original sail insignia, perfect for loading with towels and sunscreen on your next beach vacation. seabags.com/

Hydroflask 24 oz Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap

If watermaxxing is your thing, don’t hit the road without a reusable water bottle – preferably one that is leakproof and durable. The Hydroflask 24 oz Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap makes hydration easy, with double wall insulation that will keep your drink cold for days (technically up to 24 hours) and a leakproof straw cap that makes it easy to fill with ice, sip, then close securely for worry-free transport. hydroflask.com

Xero Genesis Sandals

Created by a company called “Feel the World,” Xero Shoes are designed to literally let you feel the earth through their barefoot-mimicking soles. Xero products are also designed with the ecological impact of footwear manufacturing in mind. The Genesis – Fashion-Forward Rope-Style Sandal embodies this philosophy, offering a shoe designed for comfort with minimal material used. Super light, flexible, and packable, these versatile waterproof shoes are available in five colors, and can easily go from daytime water play to an evening out. xeroshoes.com