5 Ways to be an Eco Camper

December 22, 2016 Biome

Eco camping Heading out to reconnect with nature and to explore the great outdoors these holidays? Wherever you are camping, here are 5 tips to ensure you have an eco time.

'Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints'

This well known quote by Maarten Schäfer reminds us to leave the natural environment that we wish to enjoy as undisturbed as possible so that those after us can enjoy it too. An easy way to do this is to avoid bringing single-use plastic with you, or things that will generate lots of waste. Reusable food storage containers will help pre-portion food before you go and keep it fresh, while insulated food jars will keep food warm for up to 9 hours. Stainless steel plates and reusable stainless steel mugs are sturdy and will last a long time. Make sure everyone has their own reusable cutlery, like a bamboo spork and take it home with you. While a large water bottle will keep everyone hydrated. Plus, sort any waste into recycling, composting and general waste and take it all home with you (including food waste).

Keep wildlife wild

Feeding wild animals, whether on purpose or not, does a lot more harm than good. So to ensure wild animals don't get sick or loose their ability to forage for natural foods, don't lure them over to you with food, and take all left overs and food scraps with you and compost at home.

Shop Bokashi-style compost bins here.

Opt for natural cleaning products

Washing dishes in a nearby river or lake is a big no-no, so be sure to pack enough water for drinking as well as cleaning. As you are in nature, opt for natural cleaning products, like soapberries. To wash dishes mix three soapberries (or soap nuts) in a bucket of water until it is lightly sudsy, and wash dishes normally. Then carefully dispose of water well away from any natural water body.

Shop green cleaning products here.

Choose natural personal care products

When it comes to personal care products, like soap and shampoo, we love Dindi soap bars (particularly the handy travel soap in a tin!) and Beauty & the Bees natural shampoo bars. These are toxin free, easy to take with you and really effective. You could also make your own body wash using soapberries - they're versatile little things!

Use a natural insect repellent

Certain essential oils like lemon myrtle and lavender are really good at keeping insects and mosquitoes at bay without the use of DEET and harmful chemicals. A topical spray or roll on may deter insects for several hours. While a Para'kito band or clip can be worn on the wrist, ankle or bag without being removed. It is great for those with skin sensitivities as the pallet in the Para'koto makes no contact with skin.

Further reading www.environment.nsw.gov.au/animals/KeepingWildlifeWild