6 Ways to Take a More Sustainable Road Trip

Summary

These eco-friendly road trip tips can help you cut single-use waste, save fuel, and support local towns. They also show you how to choose longer-lasting products for the car.

spread out map with bowls of food in reusable containers

1. Bring Reusable Water Bottles and Containers

It is easy to forget the basics. Pack reusable water bottles for travel, food containers, and cutlery to cut waste.

Other handy items include:

Beeswax wraps
Reusable straws
Reusable bags for farmers markets and local shops

fruit and vegetables displayed inside farmers market

2. Shop Locally

When you stop in small towns, buy from local businesses instead of big chains.

Handmade goods and local produce help small economies. They also reduce the impact of mass production.

Where to Start

Local markets are a good place to find sellers. A quick Google search or a notice board in town can show you the next market dates.

3. Composting

Composting on the road is easier than it sounds.

Composting apps and websites like ShareWaste can connect you with people nearby who accept food scraps. Open the app wherever you are, find a local drop-off point, and arrange a time to leave your scraps.

Best Containers for Composting on the Go

Glass and ceramic containers are best. They hold smells in and do not absorb odours like plastic can.

For day trips, a keep cup works well for scraps while you are away from the car.

Many Australian towns also have compost drop-off points, which makes road trips easier.

hand holding up rubbish with the ocean in the background

4. Clean Up Your Rubbish and Recycle

It may seem obvious, but always take your rubbish with you and pick up litter when you can.

Recycling Responsibly

Sort recyclables from regular rubbish and take them to a local recycling centre.

Council websites often list recycling centres and drop-off points for different materials.

zoomed in view of the fuel pump station

5. Be Fuel Conscious

There are a few easy ways to use less fuel on long drives.

A hybrid or low-emission vehicle is best, but a regular car can still be more efficient.

Fuel-Saving Tips

Pack lighter. A lighter car uses less fuel.
Use cruise control. A steady speed can save fuel.
Use E10 fuel wherever possible. The e10 fuel benefits include lower particle emissions, according to CSIRO.
Open the windows. Fresh air can use less fuel than blasting the air-con.
Check your vehicle before you go. A mechanic can spot problems that waste fuel.
Plan your route ahead of time. Good planning can cut wrong turns and extra kilometres.

woman hanging up smelly balls inside van window while man pats dog

6. Get Yourself an Eco-Friendly Air Freshener

Traditional air fresheners are often cheap, mass-made, and short-lived.

Smelly Balls are an eco-friendly car air freshener and reusable car freshener made with fair-trade wool. They last longer and come with separate fragrance oil, so you can top them up when the scent fades.

Most importantly, they look good and come in many colours to suit your road trip style.

Shop our range of Smelly Balls sets for your next sustainable road trip.

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Q&A

Question: What are the easiest sustainable swaps to pack before a road trip?

Short answer: Start with reusable water bottles, food containers, and cutlery. Then add beeswax wraps, reusable straws, and reusable bags. These simple swaps help cut single-use waste when you buy snacks, visit farmers' markets, or eat on the go.

Question: How can I compost food scraps while travelling?

Short answer: Use a sealable container such as glass or ceramic to keep smells in. Then use ShareWaste or other composting apps to find locals who can take your scraps and arrange a drop-off. For short day trips, a keep cup can work as a temporary compost bin.

Question: What should I do with recycling during a road trip?

Short answer: Keep recyclables separate from regular rubbish and drop them at local recycling centres. Council websites usually list maps and guidance for different types of recyclables.

Question: How can I reduce fuel use if I don't drive a hybrid or low-emission vehicle?

Short answer: You can still lower emissions by packing lighter, using cruise control, choosing E10 fuel wherever possible, opening windows instead of using the air-con, getting your vehicle checked before travelling, and planning your route to avoid extra miles.

Question: Why are Smelly Balls presented as a more sustainable air freshener option?

Short answer: Smelly Balls are a longer-lasting option than many traditional air fresheners, which are often cheap, mass-made, and quick to lose their scent. They are made with fair-trade wool and come with separate fragrance oil, so you can refresh the scent when it fades.