First, a confession: I’m not a camping kind of guy. I enjoy fishing, kayaking, and doing honest-to-goodness absolutely nothing for hours, but as a whole, the activity doesn’t rank high on my list of things I’d like to spend my vacation days on.
In the occasions that I do agree to pack my bags and get away from technology for several days (when a campground my friends frequent installed a six-player X-Men: The Arcade Game machine inside their lobby, it became increasingly difficult to stick to my detox, I have to say), I consciously find ways to remain as green as possible. These five items are smart must-packs that accomplish exactly that.
Juniper Ridge Caruther’s Canyon Backpackers Cologne
Getting a warm shower is the first thing I have to let go whenever I’m camping: It’s part of the package. When strong musks inevitably make themselves known (or smelled), I reach for this refreshing cologne made from organic sugar cane alcohol and steam-distilled essential oils. $85, www.westerlind.us
Bushnell Outdoors SolarWrap 400
For those times that I absolutely must plug back into the grid in the middle of the wilderness—although I will say, it’s usually because mycamera’s running out of juice and not check what everyone’s been up to on Facebook—I use this solar-powered USB charger. Three-and-a-half hours of soaking up the sun’s rays will give this enough charge to power up my devices. $213.95, www.bushnell.com
BioLite Portable Grill
This lightweight grill is a must-pack when cooking food is a necessity for my trips—which is all the time. A few pieces of dry wood would get the fire started (wet ones have a tendency to produce smoke, so avoid them). The grill attachment holds a couple of burgers and hotdogs, perfect to fill up growling stomachs after setting up camp. $59.95, www.biolitestove.com
Platypus GravityWorks Filter
Access to clean, drinking water is always an issue while in the wilderness. This portable filter holds up to eight liters and provides potable water in as little as two-and-a-half minutes. Problem solved. $119.95, www.cascadedesigns.com
Avex Brazos Water Bottle
One of the worst things I could bring with me while camping are plastic water bottles. They’re a bad idea from the beginning, especially since campgrounds do not have provisions for recycling. (It’s not like you’ll see a wastebasket for recyclables in the middle of the Catskills….) This lightweight, 100 percent BPA-free water bottle is the better alternative. It’s leak-proof as well, ensuring I don’t open a dripping backpack at the end of a hike. $15.99, www.avexsport.com
Tags: eco travel, eco-friendly, energy-efficient, footprint, green gift, meditation and relaxation, socially conscious, summer travel
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