Heading away for a family break? Whether you’re beach-bound, city-hopping, or planning a staycation, what you pack can make a difference. These simple, sustainable swaps help cut down on waste – without compromising on style or convenience.
1. Portable Snack Container or Bento Box
– Mintie Lunchbox
A sturdy box is ideal for chopped fruit, crackers, or leftovers on the go. The Mintie stainless steel lunchbox is durable, BPA-free, and designed to be used again and again – no clingfilm or foil required. It’s compact, dishwasher safe, and comes in various sizes to suit family life.
2. Mineral Sunscreen with Skin-Friendly Ingredients
– MyPure Organic Mineral Sunscreen Baby & Children SPF 50
This UK-based, award-winning sunscreen provides broad-spectrum UV protection using non-nano mineral filters – ideal for babies and children with sensitive skin. It’s fragrance-free, water-resistant, and packaged in a recyclable tube. A great swap for traditional chemical sunscreens, with added peace of mind for parents.
3. Reusable Cloth Wipes
– Cheeky Wipes Reusables
Wipe up spills, sandy feet, or sticky fingers without the throwaway waste. Cheeky Wipes’ cotton or bamboo cloths are washable and ideal for travel.
4. Refillable Water Bottle
– Chilly’s or Ocean Bottle
Both brands offer durable bottles that keep drinks cold for hours and help reduce the need for single-use plastic. Designed in the UK.
5. On-the-Go Cutlery Set
– Bambaw or Wild & Stone Bamboo Cutlery
Lightweight and portable, these sets mean you can skip the disposable forks at service stations and picnics.
6. Reusable Snack Pouches
– Nom Nom Kids Pouches & BeeBee & Leaf Wraps
Perfect for chopped fruit, trail mix or sandwiches – and much better than clingfilm or foil. UK-made, washable and made to be used again and again.
7. Refillable Hand Sanitiser
– Miniml Gel or Milton Travel Size
A handbag essential. Choose sanitiser in refillable bottles or from brands that offer return-and-refill schemes to reduce packaging waste.
8. Nappies with Less Plastic & Certified Materials
– Kit & Kin Nappies
These nappies are made using sustainably sourced fluff pulp and come in recyclable packaging. A practical choice with verified lower environmental impact.
9. Swimwear from Recycled Materials
– Frugi Swim Range
Made using post-consumer plastic, this swimwear is colourful, comfy and designed with active kids in mind. Pair it with an organic cotton sun hat for added protection.
10. Compact, Reusable Travel Towel
– Dock & Bay Quick Dry Towels
Whether you’re beach-bound or caught in a summer downpour, a lightweight, fast-drying towel is a holiday hero. Dock & Bay’s towels are made from recycled plastic bottles, fold down small, and come in fun designs for all ages. They’re sand-resistant too – perfect for the beach, the pool or impromptu picnics.
Small Swaps. Big Difference.
A little preparation goes a long way – and with a few reusable, long-life essentials in your bag, you’ll be ready for whatever summer throws your way.