When it comes to packing for a trip, we’re firm believers in making do with what we already have. It’s not only a budget-friendly approach, but it also helps us reduce our environmental footprint. As avid travelers, we’ve come to realize that many everyday items can be repurposed to make our travel experience more efficient, organized, and sustainable.

Instead of rushing to buy new travel gear, here are five common items you probably already own that can serve a purpose when traveling.

1. Repurpose Old Containers

Old containers—whether from makeup, takeout food, or pill organizers—are perfect for storing various travel essentials. We love using them for things like:

• Hygiene products: Small shampoo or conditioner bottles from hotels are ideal for refilling with your current products. You don’t need to buy travel-sized versions when you can easily reuse what you already have.
• Memory cards: As avid photographers, keeping our memory cards safe is crucial. We repurpose flat makeup containers to store them, ensuring they’re secure and easy to access.

The beauty of old containers is their versatility. They come in different sizes and shapes, making them adaptable to your travel needs.

2. Use Contact Lens Cases for Small Items

If you or someone you know uses contact lenses, you likely have a collection of contact lens cases lying around. These compact little containers are perfect for organizing small items:

• Pills: Contact lens cases are great for storing small doses of medication, especially if you need to carry both day and night medications.
• Jewelry: If you want to keep your earrings or rings safe during travel, contact lens cases are a perfect storage solution. They keep small items separated and secure.
• Hand cream: A tiny amount of your favorite moisturizer can fit neatly into a contact lens case, which is particularly handy for dry airplane cabins.

This clever storage option is small and lightweight, making it ideal for packing light.

3. Eyeglass or Pencil Cases for Organizing

Old eyeglass cases or pencil cases can be repurposed in so many ways. While these cases are traditionally used to store eyeglasses or pens, we use them for a range of other travel essentials:

• Jewelry: We prefer using hard cases for our jewelry, especially during longer trips, to keep everything safe from damage.
• First aid kit: A small, zipped case is perfect for storing basic medical supplies like band-aids, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
• Sewing kit: If you’re traveling for an extended period, a mini sewing kit is a lifesaver. A pencil case works perfectly to hold a few needles, thread, and small scissors.

Using hard cases for breakable items or small essentials ensures they’re well-protected while on the go.

4. Zipper Pouches for Everything

Zipper pouches are incredibly practical for travel, and we’ve accumulated quite a few over time. They’re great for compartmentalizing smaller items and can be used as mini packing cubes. Here are some ways we use them:

• Snacks: Perfect for storing small snacks like granola bars or dried fruit, especially on long travel days.
• Tech accessories: We store chargers, power adapters, and other small electronics in zipper pouches to keep them organized and easily accessible.
• Masks and sanitizers: With the ongoing health protocols, a zipper pouch can also serve as a convenient place to store extra masks and hand sanitizers, keeping them hygienic and easy to grab.

Zipper pouches are lightweight, flexible, and incredibly versatile for keeping your luggage organized and tidy.

5. Reusable Bags for Multiple Uses

Reusable bags are a travel essential we never leave home without. They come in handy in several ways:

• Grocery shopping: We love visiting local markets when traveling, and having a reusable tote bag helps us avoid using plastic bags while supporting local vendors.
• Storing dirty clothes: A simple tote or reusable bag can keep your dirty laundry separated from clean clothes during your trip. It’s a practical way to stay organized without taking up too much space in your bag.
• As packing cubes: For short trips, you can use any reusable bag as a makeshift packing cube. Just seal it with an elastic band, and you have a simple, compact way to organize your clothes.

Reusable bags are incredibly versatile, durable, and eco-friendly. Whether used for shopping, organizing, or storing laundry, they are a must-have item for every trip.

Conclusion

By repurposing everyday items, you can travel lighter, more sustainably, and without breaking the bank. It’s a great way to minimize waste while keeping your packing simple and functional. The best part? You’re already using these items in your daily life, so it’s an easy switch for your next adventure.

What everyday items do you repurpose when you travel? Share your tips with us, and let’s continue making travel more sustainable together!