UMB's Eco-Friendly Camping Guide

Written by
Kerri Stenson
Published on
July 1, 2022 at 4:51:42 PM PDT July 1, 2022 at 4:51:42 PM PDTst, July 1, 2022 at 4:51:42 PM PDT

As we head deeper into Summer 2022, travel seems to be the talk-track trend! And we at Urban Market Bags are hearing a whole lot of talk about camping travel. In honor of getting away and outdoors, we put together this Eco-Friendly Camping Guide so that you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors — without hurting them!


PLANNING

When planning your camping trip, think local! This is the first step to reducing your travel carbon footprint. Staying local also allows you to buy local goods, which benefits both the local economy and the environment by preserving land, supporting local farmers and helping local businesses thrive. Not sure where to go? Camping websites such as Pitch Up can guide you in the right direction. Once you’ve chosen your location, peruse this camping collaboration between Pinterest and Campspot for additional planning inspiration!


GEAR

Camping gear can make a dent in your storage space and the pocket book! Depending on how often you plan to sleep under the stars, consider borrowing camping gear from family and friends or rent from your local REI or a camping rental website such as Arrive Outdoors. If you decide to make the investment yourself, here are some great eco-friendly options below. 


Tent: There are quite a few brands making tents from recycled materials, which is great news! The not so great news is that they can be quite pricey. We scoured the market for a more moderately priced eco-friendly option, and like this one by The North Face.


Sleeping Bag: Sleeping comfort while camping is critical! And you do not have to sacrifice comfort for sustainability. Both you and the campsite will be happy with either this sleeping bag made from recycled materials by Patagonia or this one made from repurposed fabric by Cotopaxi


Camping Blanket: Campfires (safe ones!) are all the rage. Despite the warmth from the fire, mountain temperatures can drop at night. This recycled ripstop camping blanket from Voited, also transforms into a sleep sack, pillow and even a waterproof cape. 


Cooler: Keeping your food properly stored plays a big role in reducing food waste, which can have a detrimental impact on the environment. Fortunately, Igloo Coolers has a new line of ECOCOOL® coolers that are made from post-consumer recycled plastic. 


Reusable Ice Packs: Ice packs for camping serve a double duty! Not only do they help keep food and drinks chilled in the cooler, but they can be used for sore muscles after a long hike. Try these reusable, biodegradable and non toxic Nordic Packs or any of these long-lasting Cooler Shock reusable ice packs.


Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated in the summer outdoors is key, but it can be a challenge to manage if you are always on the go! Bring your reusable water bottles and fill up every time you are back at your campsite. There are so many options out there and Gear Junkie has you covered with their top insulated water bottle picks.


PACKING ITEMS

When packing, try to have a zero waste and zero damage outlook. You can accomplish this by paying attention to the products you bring — confirming that they are biodegradable and non toxic — and by leaving nothing behind. 


Compostable Trash Bags: The first step in leaving no waste behind is to have a healthy supply of compostable trash bags such as these by Green Paper Products. Be sure to dispose of your waste properly to avoid having unwanted night time visitors! 


Everything Bags: From shopping for provisions and transport of items to laundry and waste collection, Urban Market Bags will be your go-to camping companion. 


Dishware: Mealtime in the outdoors is one of the true joys of camping! We can make it more enjoyable for the environment too by using compostable dishware from Earth Centric or reusable dishware such as this camping set for 4 people from TAIBID.


Glassware: At mealtime, when you opt for something other than water, this reusable Go Vino glassware is perfect for everything from wine and craft cocktails to beer and juice. For coffee and tea lovers, these reusable CIVAGO mugs double down for either a leisurely morning sip or a grab and go. This one-stop-shop Stanley pour over set is pretty awesome too!


Cleaning products: When it comes to washing down the campsite and reusables, biodegradable products are a must! We like this dish soap from Mrs. Meyers, and these hypoallergenic, PH balanced, alcohol-free wet wipes by Surviveware


Sunscreen: As the sun gets stronger, we need to protect our skin — and the environment too. Opt for this natural sun protection Reef Repair, which is biodegradable and reef safe, protecting plants, animals and our water sources. 


Personal Hygiene: As we all know, camping involves a lot of dust and dirt! Fortunately we do not have to skip out on personal hygiene thanks to products like Dr. Bronners biodegradable soap (for hair and body!) and Green Beaver's toxic-free toothpaste or even these chew tabs from Well Dental (which also eliminate waste).


ACTIVITIES

Day Trips: Whether your go-to camping activity is hiking, boating or a mixture of both, this Eco Gear backpack made from recycled water bottles will hold all of your essentials. 


Music, Photos and More: Access to electricity in a campsite is very rare! But with these Goal Zero solar chargers all you need is access to the sun to help you stay connected. 


Lounge Time: Camping isn’t all about action! When it’s time to read or for some regular ol’ R&R, this recycled water bottle hammock from Yukon® Outfitters is the perfect vessel.


Happy Camping!