sierraclub.org - sierra magazine - july/august 2012 - enjoy: travel light
By Avital Binshtock Andrews
Pure Refreshment | Trendsetter: Natalie Coughlin | Travel Light | Heirloom Boom
Travel Light
Jetting around the globe bloats your carbon footprint. Here are some items that help lighten that load.
To spot your bags on the carousel—and to make sure they find their way home if lost—tie MOTHERBOARD GIFTS' Circuit Board Luggage Tags onto your packs. They consist of cast-off computer parts and come in catch-your-eye colors. $20 for a set of three, eco-artware.com
The GREEN EARTH GUIDES lead you to public transportation, eco-minded businesses, and organic, vegan cuisine. Currently, the books and apps cover France, Spain, Switzerland, Venice, and Vermont, with England and Ireland on the way. $3 to $16, travelingnaturally.com
For a near-perfect passport holder, go with the Fluent Doc from NAU. Its slots for airline tickets, cash, memory cards, and official documents make navigating security lines a cinch. And it's easy on the earth, thanks to its recycled-polyester exterior. Nau uses only sustainably produced fibers, offers free public transportation passes to its employees, and donates 2 percent of every sale to charity. $65, nau.com
The 21-inch Packing Genius Upright Light by KIVA is made from fabric that used to be plastic bottles. The suitcase is attractive and comfortable, with padded handles, plenty of zipped compartments and pockets, and a carabiner looped in for added utility. $200, kivadesigns.com
On commercial flights, each passenger can be responsible for more than a half pound of CO2 emissions per mile. To atone for your travel, buy offsets at terrapass.com.
Photos by Lori Eanes (4)
Heirloom Bloom