Sustainable Essentials for Travelers in Canada and Beyond
For travelers looking to explore the world responsibly, sustainable gear can make a significant difference. From clothing to outdoor equipment, choosing products that align with eco-friendly values ensures that your adventures don’t come at the expense of the planet. This list highlights some of the best sustainable essentials, focusing on brands that prioritize ethical production, environmental responsibility, and high-quality design.
Canadian Brands
Anián
Key sustainability qualities:
– Creates timeless clothing using a circular economy model
– Uses fully recycled natural fibre textiles
– Works with ethical, sustainable suppliers and supports local manufacturing
What + why to buy:
Anián offers sustainable, durable clothing designed for all-season travel. The Timber Coat is perfect for cooler summer nights, blending understated style with modern functionality. The Men’s and Women’s Lightweight Melton Wool is ideal for warmer days, offering breathable comfort and long-lasting durability.
DUER Clothing
Key sustainability qualities:
– Uses 85 per cent plant-based fibres
– Encourages consumers to own fewer, well-made pieces
– Company-owned factory in Pakistan with safe, ethical working conditions
What + why to buy:
The No Sweat Essential Short is crafted from breathable fabric, making it ideal for exploring new trails or commuting through the city. The Performance Denim Shorts are built with stretch performance denim, offering flexibility and resilience for various activities.
Vessi Shoes
Key sustainability qualities:
– 100 per cent waterproof with Dyma-tex technology
– Made with vegan materials
– PFAS-free and lightweight
What + why to buy:
Vessi shoes blend innovative waterproofing with modern, versatile style. The Boardwalk Slip-On is ideal for quick errands or long travel days, while the Weekend in Marble White offers a relaxed fit and plush cushioning.
MEC Brand Outdoor Gear
Key sustainability qualities:
– PFAS-free durable water repellency (DWR)
– Certified Responsible Down and Bluesign-approved materials
What + why to buy:
MEC’s Wasteless Mountain Blanket is made from recycled materials and surplus sleeping bag fabrics, making it a smart, eco-friendly choice for camping. The Draco & Delphinus sleeping bags deliver high performance with a conscience.
International Brands
BioLite
Key sustainability qualities:
– Climate Neutral Certified
– Certified B Corp
– Focuses on renewable energy solutions
What + why to buy:
BioLite’s Charge 80 PD Power Bank delivers high-capacity, fast-charging performance. The HeadLamp 800 Pro offers powerful, hands-free illumination, while the SolarPanel 10+ harnesses the sun’s energy for off-grid adventures.
Fjällräven
Key sustainability qualities:
– Uses recycled polyester and organic cotton
– Avoids PFAS in all new products
– Focuses on durability and timeless design
What + why to buy:
Fjällräven’s Abisko Trail Stretch Shorts are lightweight and highly packable, perfect for warm-weather hikes. The Keb Eco-Shell Jacket offers breathable protection for demanding weather, while the Abisko Summer Hat provides reliable sun protection.
Teva Footwear
Key sustainability qualities:
– Uses preferred materials such as recycled polyester
– Leather sourced from LWG-certified tanneries
– Packaging uses 97 per cent preferred paper materials
What + why to buy:
The Teva Grandview GTX Low offers rugged dependability with premium waterproof leather, while the Hydratrek Sandal is perfect for water-based activities. Both options feature recycled materials and sustainable design.
Cotopaxi
Key sustainability qualities:
– Certified Climate Neutral
– Uses sustainable materials such as recycled polyester
– Fair Trade Certified and Certified B Corp
What + why to buy:
Cotopaxi’s Del Dia line is made from 100 per cent repurposed fabric, avoiding landfill waste. The Hip Pack is perfect for city wandering, while the 35L Travel Pack makes a great carry-on. The Trico Hybrid Vest keeps you warm while standing out from the crowd.
Additional Sustainable Brands
Collage Beauty
Key sustainability qualities:
– 97 per cent botanical-based ingredients
– Glass jars for reusable packaging
– FSC-certified shipping boxes
What + why to buy:
Collage Skin Care Set features all products in under-100ml glass jars, perfect for packing in your carry-on. The glass packaging is both elegant and eco-friendly, designed for reuse or easy recycling.
Tanit
Key sustainability qualities:
– Reef-safe formula with non-nano zinc oxide
– 100 per cent biodegradable wheat straw tubes
– Natural, responsibly sourced ingredients
What + why to buy:
Tanit’s mineral sunscreen offers a smooth application with no white cast. The TANITABS All-Natural Toothpaste Tablets provide effective, fluoride-free cleaning with micro-hydroxyapatite.
tentree
Key sustainability qualities:
– Certified B Corp
– Plants 10 trees for every item purchased
– Offers a take-back program
What + why to buy:
tentree’s Astir Polo blends organic cotton, recycled polyester, and TENCEL Lyocell for breathability and modern style. The Hemp Joshua Short offers comfort with a flexible waistband and durable, eco-friendly fabric.
Tofino Towel
Key sustainability qualities:
– GOTS-certified Turkish cotton
– Partnered with solar-powered weaving houses
– Oeko-Tex certified for safe, non-toxic textiles
What + why to buy:
Tofino Towel’s Cocoon Men’s Poncho is ideal for cold plunging or post-surf sessions. The Excursion Packable Picnic Blanket is durable and water-resistant, made from recycled plastic bottles.
GOWOOD
Key sustainability qualities:
– Uses sustainable woods like bamboo and walnut
– Donates $1 to Tree Canada for every pair sold
– Offers eco-conscious packaging
What + why to buy:
GOWOOD’s Round Zebra Wood Sunglasses and Walnut Wood Classic Style Sunglasses are stylish and functional, featuring UV400 protection and impact resistance.
Monos
Key sustainability qualities:
– Certified B Corp
– Uses recycled materials in luggage
– 1% for the Planet member
What + why to buy:
Monos’ Carry-on Pro and Expandable Carry On offer innovative designs for easy packing. The Compressable Packing Cubes help organize and compress clothing effectively.
GROUNDTRUTH
Key sustainability qualities:
– Uses recycled plastic and captured CO₂ emissions
– Fully transparent supply chain
– Plastic-free and recyclable packaging
What + why to buy:
GROUNDTRUTH’s Compression Packing Cube Set and 25L Roll Top Dry Backpack UNDA Waterproof are crafted entirely from 100 per cent recycled materials, offering robust, waterproof protection for all your gear.
By choosing these sustainable essentials, travelers can enjoy their adventures while minimizing their environmental impact. From clothing to outdoor gear, these brands demonstrate that style and sustainability can go hand in hand.