Tread Lightly - luggage companies that sell environmentally friendly luggage - Brief Article

Vegetarian Times, July, 1999 by Danny Seo

Want to see the world without harming it? These eco-friendly travel accoutrements can help

There's a growing desire among Americans to see the world from a closer vantage point than the tour bus window. From trekking the Australian Outback to birding in the Central American rain forests, eco-tourism is the hottest trend in the travel industry. It makes

sense, then, to rely on luggage and travel accessories that support your appreciation for the environment. Savvy eco-travelers know to invest in good-quality gear made from durable natural and man-made materials and to pack lightweight earth-friendly clothes of organic linen, EcoSpun and Tencel. Of course, the primary health travel rule is to drink plenty of fresh, clean water. Since that can be difficult--or expensive--on the road, you'll love the filtered water bottle we've discovered. Bon voyage!

Hemp Mate

Artisan Gear's hemp essential suit bag ($139) is proof that environmental awareness and style needn't be mutually exclusive. The spacious main compartment keeps jackets and shirts wrinkle-free, and three large zippered pockets are lined with EcoSpun water-resistant liner (a recycled fleecelike material). For a free catalog and more information, call (888) 499-4367; or e-mail www.fiberops@together.net.

Water, Water Everywhere

Rubbermaid's filtered water bottles ($3.99 to $6.99) are a traveler's best friend: Just pour in tap water, screw on filter cap and squeeze to enjoy fresh, pure water. The patented, replaceable filter removes odor and reduces chlorine by up to 70 percent and will last 60 to 90 days (depending on usage). Available at discount department stores. For a location near you, contact (330) 264-6464 or www.rubbermaid.com.

Just in Case

This attractive travel-size personal grooming kit helps you stay on top of your looks in style. The collection includes a collapsible comb, nail clipper and file, built-in mirror, and toothbrush and razor heads that screw on to a universal handle--all perfect, reusable alternatives to disposables. Available at Country Road Australia stores. Call for locations: (800) 666-6677.

Peak Protection

This slim moisture stick has some big bragging rights It made it to the top of Mount Everest's East Face during the first climb back in 1953. But we mortals can appreciate it at sea level. Kiehl's ultra moisturizing stick ($15.50) provides relief to such dry, delicate areas as lips, tip of the nose, under the eye and ear lobes. With SPF 26, vitamin E and Parsol 1789 (for UVA protection), regular use of this product can help prevent premature aging and skin cancer. To order, call (800) KIEHLS-1.

Leader of the Pack

Samsonite's Ultralite 3 carry-on upright suiter bag ($135) was built with the frequent flier in mind. Constructed of durable man-made materials, it features in-tine skate wheels and pull handle for stability, front pockets for easy access to tickets and magazines, a Fibreloc fabric lining to keep out moisture, nickel hardware to prevent rust and corrosion, and synthetic leather on the handles for easier hand-carry. The 10-year guarantee ensures you won't have to replace this anytime soon--the greenest way to (800) 262-8282 for a retailer near you.

In the Bag

This oversize zip case (20" x 15") of 100 percent recycled felt ($24) is a handy way to carry your jewelry--or delicate souvenirs. Available from San Francisco's Walker Designs. Call (800) 447-2279 or visit www.walkerbags.com.

Tempus Fugit

Time will fly as fashionably as you do with this earth-friendly voyage clock from Sarut NYC ($35). This sleek portable alarm is made of recycled and recyctable high-grade fiberboard and features a world map with the 24 time zones. Battery included. Call (800) 345-6404 for more information.

No Sweat

You'll look good and feel great in this handwoven organic linen sweater from Under the Canopy ($105). With its wrinkle-resistant material, slightly flared sleeves and scalloped hem, no one will believe you pulled it out of a suitcase. Call (888) CANOPY-9 for a free catalog.

Carry On

Patagonia's heavy-duty under-seat gear bag ($110) is made from 420-denier pack cloth and reinforced on the bottom with abrasion-resistant ballistics cloth. Its unique "human curve" shoulder strap is rounded and rubberized so it won't slip off your shoulder when your hands are full. Available in hunter green or cobalt blue. For a free catalog, call (800) 638-6464 or visit www.patagonia.com.

Danny Seo's latest book, Heaven on Earth: 15-Minute Miracles to Change the World, was just published by Pocket Books. Visit www.dannyseo.com for more information.