Camping is an awesome way to soak in the great outdoors and escape the daily grind. But if you’re not careful, your camping trip could end up doing a lot more harm than good.
While it’s a great opportunity to disconnect from technology and immerse yourself in nature, it’s important to be mindful of the environment around you. Come along as we share some sustainable camping tips to help you reduce your environmental impact and make your camping trip more eco-friendly.
And, while you’re here, why not join our Queensland Camping Facebook Group to connect with like-minded people in the Sunshine State, ask for advice and share your own outdoor experiences?
What is sustainable camping?
Sustainable camping, or eco-camping, is all about enjoying the great outdoors with as little impact on the environment as possible.
For instance, not disposing of rubbish properly can lead to pollution in the area you’re staying. And those disposable plates and cups? They add up fast, creating unnecessary waste.
That’s why embracing sustainable camping is key—you can enjoy your adventure without leaving a big footprint behind.
21 ways to nail sustainable camping
Failing to align your trip with zero-waste principles can lead to significant environmental harm. Here are 21 of our top tips for upholding eco-camping practices.
Bring reusable dishes, cups, and silverware
Bring along a lightweight, portable set of dishes that you can wash and reuse throughout your trip. Not only do reusable items reduce the amount of waste you generate, but they’re also often more durable and practical for outdoor use.
Pack light
When it comes to eco-friendly camping, less is always more. Packing light not only makes it easier to carry your gear but also reduces your carbon footprint. Be mindful of what you truly need and avoid overpacking.
Additionally, multipurpose items that can serve several functions help to minimise the amount of gear you need to bring.
Use a canvas bag instead of plastic
Why not swap out your plastic bags for a sturdy, reusable canvas alternative? Canvas bags are not only far more durable, but they’re also an eco alternative to single-use plastics.
They’re perfect for storing and carrying your gear, groceries, or even firewood. After your trip, they can simply be washed and ready to reuse for your next adventure
Prioritise local and sustainable food
Supporting local farmers is also a great way to reduce your impact where possible. It’s not only about nourishing your body but also aligning with your commitment to protecting the environment.
Local produce often has a smaller carbon footprint since it doesn’t need to travel long distances to reach you. Additionally, it’s usually a lot fresher making it taste a lot better too!
Use reusable containers for food and drinks
One of our top eco-friendly camping tips is to avoid the temptation of single-use plastics by packing your food and drinks in reusable containers. Sturdy, leak-proof stainless steel or glass containers will keep your food fresh and safe from spills, and they can be used again and again to reduce waste.
See our guide to the best esky to safely store all of your food and to keep your drinks cool.
Reuse water bottles
Stainless steel or BPA-free plastic bottles are durable, keep your water cool, and are better for the environment than their single-use plastic counterparts. Many campsites even offer refill stations, so you can stay hydrated, zero-waste camping style.
Choose sustainable camping gear
When selecting camping gear, opt for items made from eco-friendly, durable materials. Investing in quality gear means you won’t need to replace it as often, which in turn reduces waste in the long run.
Look for brands that prioritise sustainability and consider the lifecycle of the products you’re buying, from production to disposal, staying aligned with eco-camping practices.
Solar-powered chargers are a great way to keep your gadgets charged up without needing to use any electricity.
Use energy-efficient lights like LED lanterns
Lighting up your campsite doesn’t have to be a drain on the environment. LED lanterns and flashlights are energy-efficient alternatives to traditional lighting.
They use less power, last longer, and are often rechargeable, reducing the need for disposable batteries. Some LED lanterns are even solar-powered, making them an excellent choice for eco-camping.
Ensure campfires are completely extinguished
When it comes to eco-friendly camping tips, this one is probably (hopefully) just common sense. Living in Australia means we’ve seen time and time again the devastation bushfires cause to lives, homes, and natural habitats.
Never, ever, ever leave a campsite or fall asleep until your fire is completely extinguished. This means dousing the fire with water, stirring up the ashes, and repeating the process until everything is cold to the touch.
Pack out all rubbish, including food waste
One of the core principles of eco-camping is leaving no trace. This means packing up everything you bring in, including all rubbish and food waste and taking it with you. Even unsuspecting biodegradable items like fruit peels can take a long time to decompose and can attract wildlife in ways that disrupt natural behaviours. Be sure to bring along rubbish bags and sealable containers to store your waste until you can dispose of it properly.
Recycle and compost when possible
When you’re camping, it’s important to recycle and compost as much as possible. Keep in mind that if you’re camping in a national park, there may be specific rules that you need to follow. For example, in some parks, you can recycle glass, plastic, and aluminium, but not cardboard.
Make sure you familiarise yourself with the rules for the park you’re visiting in advance. And, even if the campsite doesn’t offer these facilities, you can take your recyclables and compostable waste home to dispose of properly.
Use eco-friendly products
When shopping for camping supplies like soap and insect repellant, look for labels that indicate a product is biodegradable, non-toxic, or made from natural ingredients. These products are designed to break down quickly and safely in the environment, reducing the risk of pollution.
It also ensures you’re keeping the area safe from harmful chemicals for future campers and, of course, the local wildlife.
Carpool to the campsite
Sharing a ride with friends or family cuts down on the number of vehicles on the road, which in turn reduces fuel consumption and emissions. Plus, carpooling can make the trip more fun and give you a chance to bond with your friends and/or family.
This is a great example of how eco-camping can start before you’ve even reached your destination.
Borrow or buy second-hand camping gear
Borrowing or purchasing preloved gear is a great way to reduce waste and save money, especially if you’re a casual camper who doesn’t feel the need to invest in new equipment. Second-hand stores and online marketplaces often have high-quality gear at a fraction of the cost, allowing you to camp sustainably without breaking the bank.
Choose designated campsites
Camping in undesignated spots can lead to habitat destruction, soil erosion, and disruption of wildlife. Stick to marked trails and established campsites, and follow any guidelines provided by park authorities.
By doing so, you’re helping to preserve the natural beauty of the area and ensuring it remains accessible for future campers. This is a fundamental principle of eco-camping.
Practice responsible toileting with biodegradable products
Responsible toileting is a key part of leave-no-trace camping, ensuring that you don’t contaminate water sources or harm the local ecosystem, which is an important element of zero-waste camping.
When nature calls, it’s important to handle it in a way that’s respectful to the environment. If your campsite doesn’t have toilet facilities, make sure to dig a hole at least 15-20 cm deep and 60 metres away from any water sources. Use biodegradable toilet paper, and cover the hole properly after use.
Use biodegradable soap for washing
Washing up while camping doesn’t have to harm the environment. Biodegradable soap is designed to break down naturally, reducing its impact on water sources and wildlife. When using soap, whether for dishes, clothes, or yourself, make sure you’re at least 60 metres away from any water sources to prevent contamination.
Support eco-friendly campsites
Choosing to stay at eco-friendly campsites is a great way to ensure your camping trip has a minimal environmental impact. These campsites often use renewable energy, have comprehensive recycling programs, and implement practices that protect local ecosystems. Some might even offer educational programs about sustainability and conservation.
Plan meals to minimise food waste
Planning ahead is key to making sustainable choices for your camping trip.
Look for organic, in-season fruits and vegetables, and consider plant-based meals that require fewer resources to produce. Checking out the Woolworths catalogue can help you find options that align with eco-friendly camping principles.
Avoid disturbing wildlife
One of the most important aspects of eco-camping is respecting the natural habitat of wildlife. While it can be exciting to encounter animals in their natural environment, it’s incredibly important to observe them from a distance.
Disturbing wildlife can cause stress, disrupt feeding and breeding habits, and even lead to dangerous situations for both animals and humans. Avoid feeding them, keep all of your food securely stored, and make sure to camp in designated areas to minimise your impact.
Use natural insect repellents
Protecting yourself from insects while camping doesn’t mean you have to use harsh chemicals. Natural insect repellents made from essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender are effective alternatives that align with eco-friendly camping tips.
These products are not only safer for your skin but also less harmful to the environment. Additionally, they won’t leave behind harmful residues that can contaminate the soil and water around your campsite.
Now that we’ve covered the tips and tricks, it’s time to answer some of the FAQs about sustainable camping practices.
FAQs about sustainable camping
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about sustainable camping.
How is camping sustainable?
By adopting practices that minimise environmental impact, such as using reusable gear, following leave-no-trace principles, and choosing eco-friendly campsites, you can enjoy the best of nature while allowing it to be preserved for future generations.
What is sustainable camping gear?
Sustainable camping gear includes items crafted from recycled or natural materials, such as bamboo utensils, solar-powered chargers, and tents made from eco-friendly fabrics. Opting for such gear aligns with eco-camping principles, as it reduces waste and supports environmental conservation.
What are the problems with camping for the environment?
Not following eco-friendly camping tips like properly disposing of waste and minimising campfire use can negatively impact the environment through litter, pollution, and habitat disruption. Practising zero-waste camping and respecting natural habitats are essential to mitigate these issues.
How are tents sustainable?
Tents can be sustainable if they’re made from eco-friendly materials like organic cotton or recycled polyester. Additionally, choosing a durable tent that lasts for many years into the future reduces the need for frequent replacements, aligning with the principles of sustainable camping.
How to be eco-friendly when camping?
Being eco-friendly when camping involves actions like using biodegradable products, recycling waste, and following leave-no-trace principles. Incorporating sustainable camping tips into your routine ensures that your camping trip has a minimal environmental footprint. In a nutshell, camping eco-friendly style is all about reducing your impact on nature.
How do you respect the environment when camping?
Respecting the environment while camping revolves around leaving no trace, avoiding wildlife disturbance, and using sustainable camping gear. By adopting eco camping practices, such as zero waste camping and responsible toileting, you help preserve the natural beauty of the camping area for others to enjoy.
Final thoughts on sustainable camping
When it comes down to it, sustainable camping is all about soaking up the beauty of nature without leaving a mark that spoils it for the next person.
By making simple, thoughtful choices—like using eco-friendly gear, packing out all your rubbish, and aiming for zero waste—you can enjoy your camping trips while helping to keep our planet in good shape.
Whether you’re a camping pro or just getting started, these tips make it easy to have an eco-friendly adventure. Every little effort makes a difference, so let’s all pitch in to keep the outdoors as amazing as we found it.
Why not join our Queensland Camping Facebook Group to chat with like-minded people, ask for advice and share your experiences from the great outdoors? You’ll also find more handy resources like this deep dive into sustainable camping at Queensland Camping.
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