Spring is in the air, and that means it’s time to restock and refresh the RV! As we prepare for new adventures, it’s the perfect opportunity to rethink how we pack our campers and embrace a greener way of traveling. Here are some simple, eco-friendly swaps that can make a big impact.
Six Quick Tips
1. Ditch Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles
Plastic water bottles are a major source of waste, with a floating garbage patch in the Pacific Ocean spanning 600 miles. To break the habit, try these alternatives:
- Reusable Water Bottles: Invest in an insulated stainless steel or BPA-free plastic bottle.
- Refillable Water Jugs: Keep a couple of gallon jugs filled with tap water in your vehicle for refills on the go.
- Water Flavor Enhancers: If you miss the convenience of sports drinks, try powdered electrolyte mixes that you can add to your reusable bottle.
2. Swap Plastic Food Storage for Reusable Options
Rather than constantly replacing cracked Tupperware or using disposable bags, try these long-lasting alternatives:
- Glass Bowls with Lids: Pick up glass refrigerator dishes from thrift stores or repurpose old mason jars for dry goods and leftovers.
- Beeswax Wraps: Replace plastic wrap with DIY beeswax-coated fabric wraps that can be reused for up to a year.
- Silicone Storage Bags: These collapsible, durable bags are easy to clean and great for storing food in your RV.
3. Say Goodbye to Disposable Dinnerware
Instead of loading up on paper plates and plastic utensils, opt for:
- Melamine or Enamelware Plates: These lightweight, durable options can handle everything from steak to soup.
- Bamboo Utensils: If you need extra utensils for guests, bamboo is a biodegradable and sustainable choice.
- Cloth Napkins: Find vintage fabric napkins at thrift stores or invest in a set of washable cotton napkins to eliminate paper waste.
4. Cut Down on Paper Towels
Breaking the paper towel habit was tough, but here’s what worked for me:
- Unpaper Towels: DIY or purchase reusable cloth towels that snap together in a roll.
- Work Rags: Buy a bulk pack of cotton rags that can be washed and reused, saving money in the long run.
5. Eco-Friendly Dishwashing
Many commercial soaps contain harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. When washing dishes outdoors:
- Use Biodegradable Soap: Brands like Dr. Bronner’s and Rosebud Soap break down naturally and are safe for the earth.
- Dispose of Dishwater Responsibly: Strain out food particles and scatter soapy water in an area away from streams and lakes to minimize environmental impact.
6. Host an Eco-Friendly Campground Dinner
One of my favorite green camping traditions is the eco-dinner! Here’s how you can try it:
- Ask everyone to bring their own plate, utensils, and drinking glass.
- Set up a dishwashing station with soapy water, a rinse bucket, and microfiber towels.
- At the end of the meal, each person washes and dries their own dishes—no waste, no hassle!
Make Small Changes That Matter
Sustainability at the campground doesn’t mean giving up convenience—it just means thinking differently about the way we pack, cook, and clean. By making a few mindful swaps, we can significantly reduce our waste and enjoy the great outdoors responsibly. Start planning your next adventure the eco-friendly way!
