Paying heavy bag fees (the shame!) when lugging things for our apartment across the Atlantic and then hauling said hefty bags up 20 steps to our front door in Lucca was no fun after our long journey.
A Pact on Packing
Packing light was always a struggle as a family of five when our boys were young. But now that our grown sons are responsible for their own bags, and we’ve embraced our empty-nester phase, it’s finally getting easier.
After a year of traveling back to Lucca and ‘squirreling’ clothes and essentials into our suitcases for the apartment, we vowed after each trip, "never again." Now, we’ve made a solemn pact: carry-on only for our next journey to Lucca. With everything we need already in our apartment, we can now travel light and guilt-free, all while minimizing our carbon footprint. Wish us luck as we pack just enough to complement what’s in our owner's closet—hopefully leaving ample room to even bring a few favorite things back to Northern Virginia.
Pack Less!
Friends who stay at our place in Lucca often ask how to pack to blend in with locals and avoid looking like tourists. We remind them to prioritize comfort—after all, they are tourists! Italian summers, with their sun-kissed vistas and quaint alleys, call for breezy yet stylish attire. Opting for sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, linen, or Tencel, provides lightweight comfort for those 20k+-step days! And, an added bonus is that these fabrics will also dry quickly on our clothesline.
Instead of stressing over heavy bag fees and lugging around “what if” outfits, take a deep breath. Lucca offers fantastic shopping just steps away, leaving room in your luggage for treasures to wear on your trip and bring home. It's win-win - skip the fees, save suitcase space, and have something that will remind you of your trip every time you wear it back at home!
Over the years, we’ve learned the importance of smart, sustainable packing. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about being mindful of the environment while you travel. Consider how your choices impact the beautiful places you visit. Here are some eco-friendly items to think about bringing for your trip...
The Last Suitcases You Will Ever Buy
We invested in Briggs & Riley suitcases years ago, and we're still using them today! Their durable design, combined with a lifetime warranty that includes free repairs, makes them an eco-friendly choice. This means fewer replacements and less waste in landfills. While pricier, by choosing high-quality luggage that can withstand the test of time, you not only save money in the long run but also contribute to a more sustainable future. They can take a lot of abuse, but when an issue arises, we've found the repair process to be easy.
More Space, Less Waste
These packing cubes are an ideal solution for the eco-conscious traveler looking to stay organized and pack light. Made from recycled materials, they not only help reduce your environmental footprint but are also lightweight and durable, making them perfect for repeated use. Their compact design allows you to fit more into your suitcase while keeping your belongings neatly sorted, eliminating the need for excess luggage. With breathable mesh tops, they ensure your clothes stay fresh, while the variety of sizes helps maximize every inch of space, allowing for smarter, more sustainable packing choices. Plus, by using these cubes, you can avoid single-use plastic bags, adding another layer of eco-friendliness to your travel routine.
Green Travel Toiletries
Pack eco-friendly toiletries that are plastic-free and cruelty-free. Solid shampoo and conditioner bars and refillable silicone containers will help reduce your plastic footprint while using your products from home.
Plus, as an added bonus, you won’t have to worry about airport security confiscating oversized liquids! It’s one less thing to stress over at security, and you’ll feel great knowing your toiletries are both TSA-friendly and environmentally conscious.
Prepared Without Plastic
Top off your eco-friendly arsenal with a stylish tote for your shopping sprees at local markets. These compact, reusable shopping bags fit into your purse and are perfect for carrying fresh produce, local artisan goods, or even a bottle of Tuscan wine. Plus, with Italy's recent push against plastic bags, having your own tote is not just practical—it’s also in line with the country’s efforts to reduce plastic waste.
Pack Light, Wash Right
If you're packing light, chances are you'll need to do laundry during your trip. Detergent sheets are a perfect solution, especially when staying in an Airbnb or places without laundry facilities. Compact and travel-friendly, these biodegradable sheets dissolve quickly in water, making them ideal for washing clothes in the sink too. They work as effectively as traditional detergents and come in compostable packaging, helping you minimize waste and keep your packing light.
Hydration Station: Say Goodbye to Single-Use Bottles!
How do you spot an American in Italy? Well, one way is their water bottle! It’s almost a cultural hallmark—Americans are known for always having a water bottle on hand, and Italy is the perfect place to put that habit to good use! One of the simplest yet most effective eco-friendly items you can pack for Italy is a reusable water bottle.
Italy is dotted with ancient and charming public fountains, especially in cities like Lucca, where the water is safe to drink and deliciously fresh. In Lucca, you’ll find fountains throughout the historic city center, offering crisp, cool water that’s not only refreshing but completely free. By bringing a stainless steel or glass bottle, you can refill throughout the day, staying hydrated without contributing to the single-use plastic waste that often comes with buying bottled water. More on Lucca's waste management, here.
A great tip is to bring your empty bottle through airport security, then fill it up before your flight or after landing, avoiding the need to buy overpriced plastic water bottles along your journey. Many airports, including those in Italy, have refill stations, so there’s no reason to rely on single-use bottles during your travels. It’s an easy and practical way to reduce plastic waste while enjoying the simple pleasure of sipping some of the best-tasting water Italy has to offer! Plus, it saves you money that could be better spent on a delicious cappuccino or local wine once you arrive.
Sustainability is not just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. Let your eco-minded choices be the statement pieces of your Italian adventure!
What eco-friendly choices do you make when traveling?
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