Eco-Friendly Clothing for the Conscious Traveler
Travel can change a person, but it can also change our environment. From the clothes we pack to the gear we buy, our choices matter. Luckily, more and more brands are rethinking the way clothing is made—offering durable, stylish, and sustainable options for travelers who want to see the world without the cost to the earth. Here are a few standout companies worth adding to your packing list:
Patagonia
A pioneer in outdoor sustainability, Patagonia is as famous for its activism as it is for its jackets. Their Worn Wear program keeps clothing in circulation—letting you trade in, repair, or buy used gear instead of purchasing new. For travelers, that means less waste and more adventures in tried-and-true gear.
Tentree
For every item you purchase, Tentree plants ten trees! Their transparent sustainability reports show exactly how they’re helping communities and ecosystems worldwide. Soft basic tees, versatile layers, and eco-conscious accessories make them a natural choice for packing light and traveling responsibly.
prAna
The focus of prAna is on creating sustainable fabrics, from organic cotton to recycled wool, while cutting down on waste in production. Their clothing is designed with versatility in mind: a dress that works for sightseeing can just as easily transition to dinner wear, helping you pack less and do more.
Obōz Footwear
Shoes can make or break a trip. Obōz delivers durable hiking boots and everyday travel shoes—and plants a tree for every pair sold. They’re also mindful of carbon emissions in shipping, making each step in their supply chain as thoughtful as the ones you’ll take on the trail.
Abode Outside
Abode Outside is a knitwear brand that takes sustainability to heart: they have 100% solar-powered offices, recycled and responsibly sourced yarns, eco-friendly packaging, and a commitment to donate 1% of all sales to protecting America’s wilderness. Their sweaters and layers are not only travel-ready but also proof that small companies can make a big difference.
Don’t Forget Thrifting
The most sustainable travel gear is often already out there. Thrifting, buying secondhand, or swapping with friends keeps clothing in use and cuts demand for new production. Plus, you can score unique, well-loved pieces with stories of their own.
Buy less, choose well, and repair often. One versatile jacket or pair of shoes can outlast three fast-fashion replacements—and leave you with fewer regrets (and more room in your bag).
Travel sustainably, and you’ll not only take memories with you—you’ll leave the world a little better than you found it.