Plastic free vacations advice

“I unwrap cosmetics before I go so I don't take unnecessary plastic wrapping. I decant moisturiser etc into little glass bottles so I don't end up buying the dreaded miniatures. Bamboo toothbrushes are brilliant. I also take a knife, spoon and fork for eating street food so you avoid the plastic ones (remember to pack in the hold though as you might not get through security if they're in hand luggage!). If self catering then shop in local markets as much as possible so that you buy fruit and veg unpackaged. And always bring a reusable shopping bag and reusable water bottle and coffee cups.” – Krissy Roe, head of special projects

“I have given up shower gel. Good old fashioned soap does the trick and I love buying new, natural ones at local markets when I travel. Just break off a small bit to travel with and then buy a bar when you are there. Solid shampoo is fabulous too, and there are lots of natural ones out there. I use organic coconut oil as a moisturiser. Heat it under the tap until it becomes liquid and then pour it into small glass container for traveling. Sun cream also comes in a tin; check out ‘Shade’ from Not the Norm Ltd as a good example.” – Catherine Mack, travel writer

“Some cities have an app or map you can download to help you find public water fountains so you can refill a water bottle, like this one for Paris. Plastic versus single use plastic is an interesting one – my plastic flip flops are on their third summer, whereas the fabric/bamboo type ones I bought fell apart after a month.” – Nicola Keen, IT projects manager

“Sitting around waiting for governments and corporations to solve the plastics crisis isn’t an option. I firmly believe that direct, local activism by individuals is needed to create a global mass clean-up – regardless of if and when any legislative changes start happening. A man in India called Afroz Shah has been a huge source of inspiration – look him up! Closer to home, volunteering with Surfers Against Sewage to clean beaches and coastlines in Sussex helped me to feel that I was making a small difference to this huge problem.” – Chris Kearney, account manager

“There are lots of great products available today to help you ditch the single use plastics when traveling with a baby. From reusable wipes and nappies to silicone or metal snack pots and plastic free bottles which are compatible with a range of popular brand teats. It requires a little organisation in terms of carrying extra reusable bags for used wipes and nappies when on the go but is fantastic when you reach your destination and don't have to run around finding a shop in order to re-stock your baby essentials.” – Anna Rice, content editor

“What about not using drinking straws when ordering drinks – or even bringing your own stainless steel straw? You can get some now that fold up and fit in a little box you can put on your key ring!” - Tessa O'Hara, help desk

“When I am on a walking or self catering break, I take my own lunch box. That way I can pack sandwiches without plastic bags or the squashing effect!” – Lyn Hill, finance manager

“I started in January to be more plastic conscious, and when I go to Chicago in June, I am planning to take my stainless steel food tin, keep cup, cloth bag, soap, water bottle, stainless steel razor for shaving and homemade toothpaste. Also if you are looking for inspiration, I follow Sustainably Vegan on YouTube, zero waste pioneer Lauren Singer, Zero Waste Home and Sustainably Vegan's new hashtag #thelowimpactmovement on Instagram.” – Daisy Vasanthakumar, content editor