Photo Credit: Instagram Users @megannoblephoto and @lovewestmichigan

There is a lot to be gained from spending your vacation outdoors. With how much nature gives us when we go camping, it only makes sense that we return the favor! One of the best ways to make a positive impact on our environment is through eco-friendly camping. 

Luckily, embracing your inner eco-traveler on your next RV camping trip is easier than you might think. With a few new sustainable habits, you’ll notice a world of difference when camping. Plus, you’ll feel great knowing that you made a difference. 

Keep reading to learn how you can master eco-friendly camping during your next RV outing. 

Best Eco-Friendly Tips For Your Next RV Adventure 

Enjoy a Sustainable Meal Experience

You might be tempted to bring disposable dinnerware when you go camping. It can be easier to toss your plates when you’re done eating, but that trash builds up. 

An eco-friendly alternative is to bring real dinnerware. This includes your plates and silverware. This way you can cut down on your post-mealtime trash. Plus, washing dishes has never been easier than in a Cruise America RV rental! Wash your dishes with ease in your RV’s sink, and use them again the next time you chow down. 

Another way to cut down on trash from your meal is by avoiding unnecessary food wrappers. Try making your own snacks at home before your trip! You can make snacks like DIY granola bars, and you won’t have to worry about throwing away tons of food wrappers. 

Make an Eco-Friendly Campfire 

A staple of any camping trip is the campfire experience. Nothing beats gathering around a cozy fire to tell stories and make awesome snacks. 

That’s why it’s important to remember campfire safety and etiquette when you’re on your eco-friendly camping trip. Without proper care, your campfire could damage the environment around you.

Make sure you choose natural materials to start your campfire. Smokey Bear, a well-known wildfire prevention advocate, recommends gathering wood from the ground. Never take any branches from a tree! When you’re ready to put the fire out, be thorough. If your campfire ashes are too hot to touch, they’re also too hot to leave. Carefully follow the recommended steps to putting your campfire out until all the remaining material is cool. 

Know What’s in Your Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a common camping essential. It’s no fun to get sunburnt on your vacation! 

While sunscreen does wonders in protecting our skin, it can also have an impact on the environment. According to the National Academy of Sciences, some chemicals in sunscreen can harm certain marine life. These chemicals included oxybenzone, octinoxate, benzophenone and more. 

So, how can you protect yourself and protect our waterways? 

When you buy a new bottle of sunscreen, check to see what chemicals are in it. If you’re feeling crafty, you can even try your hand at making your own sunscreen. Plenty of DIY sunscreen recipes recommend aloe vera, which is great at treating and preventing sunburns. 

In addition to your eco-friendly sunscreen, you can also try various sunwear. Just make sure any clothes you choose have a sufficient Ultraviolet Protector Factor (UPF). 

To learn more about minimizing your impact in the outdoors, check out the 7 Principles by Leave No Trace. 

Ready to put your newly learned eco-friendly camping skills to the test? Have an awe-inspiring trip in an RV rental when you visit Cruise America today!