3 Essential Zero Waste Items to Keep in Your Car
No matter where you go, taking a zero waste trip can be pretty challenging.Disposables are king on the road!
If you want to make it tothe end of your trip without gathering up a collection of paper coffee cups and throwaway plastics, youhave to be prepared. Luckily, (now that the weather is getting warmer) I’ve had the chance to test out my very own Zero Waste Car Kit. And let me tell you, it has saved me a number of times.
You never know where the open road will take you; these amazing, portable, lightweight zero waste items will ensure you’re always prepared for whatcomes your way.
Here’s what I keep in my car.
3Essential Zero Waste Items to Keep in Your Car
1. Mason Jar
Why I Love Them
I honestly believe that amason jar is one of the most versatile items on the planet. Theyseal water-tight, making them perfect for solid foods, soups and cold drinks. Perfect for restaurant leftovers! Need to use it for coffee in a snap? Pack a mason jar cozy to protect your fingers while you sip your coffee.
Where to Find Them
Mason jars are very easy to find. I highly recommend checking out your local thrift stores to see if you can find a range of sizes for your pantry and your to-go kit. Not interested in buying secondhand? Save and wash jars from sauces and nut butters or visit any of your local big boxstores.
What You’ll Spend
Mason jars are definitely your most affordable jar option out there, especially if you choose to buy secondhand. Expect to spend between $0.50 and a couple of dollars. Nice!
2. Cloth Napkin
Why I Love Them
If you eat out a lot, definitely stasha cloth napkin or dish towel in your car or purse. This item will come in handy if you needto pick up a sandwich or a pastry, or need to wrap something for transport. Most places will gladly hand you your food item on your clean cloth napkin. They’re also great for wrapping bulk goodieslike crackers or nuts.
Where to Find Them
Odds are you already have plenty of cloths to choose from in your kitchen. Pick one that isn’t too thick (you want to be able to tie it closed) and that is made froma natural fiber that washes up well. If you don’t have any kitchen cloths to spare, pick one up locally.
What You’ll Spend
If you’re buying new, expect to spend between $5 and $15 for a pack of 3-5. However, you can definitely find secondhand linens as well! Just be sure to sanitize and wash them before use.
3. Cutlery Kit
Why I Love Them
Few fast fooditems sneak up on me more than plastic straws and disposable cutlery. This is why I keep a cutlery kit that includes bamboo fork, knife, spoon and chopsticks, and a stainless steel straw in my purse. Pick one up and start refusing those disposables at restaurants!
Where to Find Them
Amazon.com has a number of lightweight, nicely wrapped cutlery kits to choose from. You can also opt to make your own, or assemble some silverware from home. Just make sure it includes all the items you need. Feeling even more minimalist? Look for a convertible multipurpose tool that is a fork, spoon and knife all in one!
What You’ll Spend
Most of the cutlery kits I’ve seen range between $12 and $20 online. I purchased my To-Go Ware kit for about $15. If you want to save money, just stash a few pieces of silverware from your kitchen.
What do you think? Will you create a Zero Waste To-Go Kit like this one?
Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.
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