Creating a Zero Waste Kit

So friends, what is a Zero Waste Kit (ZWK) anyways? Simply put, it’s a bag you can take anywhere that has essential items in it to help you reduce waste.

I had a blast creating mine + I am continuing to add to it. Here are my essential items I put into my ZWK with a few ethical stores I trust + love to help you create your own! (Note: every item is reusable, but not necessarily from an ethical store)

• • Water bottle
    • Since moving to Colorado, I never go anywhere without it! I use a HydroFlask, which is not ethical but it’s what I have at home.

• • Coffee mug
    • Because coffee is a high priority. I also use a HydroFlask or any other mug that is around the house. KeepCup is a great ethical brand for reusable coffee mugs!

• • 4 napkins
    • I put napkins in my kit because of spills + wiping hands if eating on the road. Especially if you’ve got kiddos, I recommend placing some in your kit. I got mine from my mother-in-law + I’m sure she had them lying around her home or bought them at a garage sale.

• • 1 hand towel
    • For bigger spills or to wrap things in. I guess I wanted an extra something just in case!

• • 2 sets of silverware
    • For eating on the go. These were super helpful when we were on our roadtrip! And they are literally from my kitchen.

• • 2 mason jars
    • I’ve used these for snacks, leftovers, and to place dirty napkins in.

• Bag
  • I placed everything is a reusable bag that we usually use for groceries, trips to the farmers market or simply to reduce using a plastic bag. Eco Bags + Urbana Sacs are great stores to purchase ethical, reusable bags from.

Things to think about when you’re creating your own kit:

1. 1. Think essentials. For me, coffee + water, so I make sure to have a reusable coffee mug and water bottle on hand. Ask yourself: what is necessary for me to thrive wherever I’m going and whoever I’m going with!

1. 1. Think ahead. Are you using your kit for daily use? For a road trip? Are you going by car or by plane? Do you have snacks on hand or will you stop for food? Thinking ahead will give you time + space to make sure you’ve got all your bases covered!

1. 1. Ask yourself good questions. If I ate on the road or stopped for food, what would I need/use? If my kiddos spill something in the car, what will I clean it up with? If we have leftovers what can I put them in?

1. Do your research. If you’re wanting to purchase new items to go into your kit, research good, safe and ethical products.

More ideas to add to your own kit:

• • Chopsticks

• • Napkins or towels

• • Jars or other storage containers

• • Extra diapers

• • An extra sippy cup

• A bag for dirty napkins or trash

What are you planning to place in your Zero Waste Kit?