Eco-Friendly Gift Guide: Your Ultimate Must-Haves for Sustainable Travelling

18/09/2023



In recent years, the importance of sustainable travel has gained significant attention. As more people become aware of the environmental impact of tourism, there has been a growing shift towards eco-friendly travel practices. Sustainable travel not only allows us to explore the world in a responsible manner but also ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty of our planet.


From reducing our carbon footprint through this new pursuit of a more sustainable travel lifestyle — there are various ways brands like you, can make a positive impact.


Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their choices. In hopes of retaining their loyal patrons, brands and businesses alike are constantly finding ways to entice customers through exciting and attractive promotional offers. By incorporating sustainability into your business practices, you not only contribute to a healthier planet — but also attract eco-conscious customers.


In this latest blog post of our sustainability series, we'll explore:-

  • The rise of sustainable travel: how you can benefit from it

  • Gift guide: How brands can celebrate sustainability with eco-friendly [travel] gift ideas

  • How to maximise your visibility with DTC World



The rise of sustainable travel: What your brand needs to know, how to benefit from it

In a world where 'going green' is becoming more and more popular, it comes as no surprise that sustainability is gradually becoming a hot topic for businesses. Take a look around, and you will notice many businesses — whether in the tourism industry or not — are adopting a more ‘green’ approach in their practices. A lot of companies, too, are making it easier for travellers to minimise their footprints without sacrificing their adventure.


The traveller mindset, too, is changing; and sustainable travel has emerged as a growing trend, considering travellers hope to lessen the environmental impact of tourism. You may have heard of the terms “green travel”, “green tourism”, “ecotourism”, “responsible travel”, “ethical tourism”, to name a few. These terms mean consumers are opting for reusable water bottles instead of single-use plastic bottles, adopting a minimalist travel approach, and utilising multi-functional travel essentials. By minimising the weight of your luggage, you not only reduce your carbon footprint but also make your travel experience more convenient and hassle-free.


An example of a compact and versatile recycled travel backpack — featuring an expandable roll top so you will always have ample room for daily essentials while on-the-go. Constructed from durable rPET canvas, impress your loyal patrons with an eco travel companion that they will appreciate for a long time. Image credit: Animal.co/Facebook


Why we like it: The cool and stylish exterior is definitely a head-turning feature. Apart from having endless flexibility to customise this good-looking travel essential — from the adjustable straps to buckles and pockets — its lightweight feature will surely make your travel experience even more comfortable, if not memorable!


Practical and pretty to look at — with some personalised touches, e.g. a brand logo or short messages — eco travel bags like this are geared up to add more ‘green’ hype to your sustainability campaigns and boost sales!


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, limited-time-only redemption campaigns, exclusive merchandise, travel businesses, hospitality and tourism industry



Check out this foldable travel backpack, an ultralight daypack that packs down to a tiny size — makes it easy to put in your luggage for the extra storage you need during vacation! Image credit: DTC World


Why we like it: A functional collapsible backpack that allows you to toss it into your main travel luggage or carry-on bag; especially if you’re a light traveller. You can use it as a travel bag, or keep it as a backup in your luggage — ie. as your small bag for exploring. Speaking of convenience and functionality, your customers will surely adore you for such a thoughtful gift item!


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, limited-time-only redemption campaigns, exclusive merchandise for travel businesses, hospitality and tourism industry



Another example of promotional gift idea to advocate minimalist travel, this polyester multi-piece travel bag set provides ample space for your preferred personalisation options to amplify your brand visibility. A less-is-more design concept that surely complements a strong sustainable message. Image credit: DTC World


Why we like it: A highly desirable multi-piece travel bag set that allows you to travel light and travel smart! Providing sufficient storage space to pack your travel essentials — in a neat and organised manner — this gift idea echoes nothing but savvy. Comes with various compact pouches and bags — of different sizes — to store your toiletries and other travel necessities, the durable and water-resistant material allows one to travel with ease and peace of mind.


Branding options are practically more than enough for a bag that features all the robust, technical aspects of premium outdoor holdalls, but with an eco-friendly twist.


Packing clothes into a suitcase is fairly simple; but, that might not be the case with shoes. Footwear can carry dirt and germs that can end up on your clothes, while also being vulnerable to scuffs from hard items in your suitcase, e.g. hair tools or the zippers on your toiletry bag. That’s where travel shoe bags come in! Instantly upgrade your luggage when you pair it with this next travel companion: a water-proof travel shoe bag.


These bags protect your heels, sneakers and boots and help your footwear last longer, which is an important consideration. You could your customers with a standalone shoe bag, or bundle it up with several travel gift items as a complete travel gift pack.


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, limited-time-only redemption campaigns, exclusive merchandise



Dustproof and waterproof, this durable travel shoe bag could last you a very long time. Use it during your short trips, long travels, or gym sessions — a good travel shoe bag includes ingenious features that help make your shoe-packing experience easier. Embedded with a collapsible divider to keep each shoe separate, and easily slides down if you prefer not to use it. Image credit: DTC World





Promoting sustainability through promotional campaigns:

How brands can celebrate sustainability with eco-friendly [travel] gifts



Big brands are already realising the importance of sustainability. Over time, the concept of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) has gained traction. The ESG norms have assumed significance as green practices have become a crucial part of businesses. According to a Google study in 2022, it is revealed that approximately 76% of executives of companies with more than $10 billion in annual revenue remarked that ESG initiatives are a priority for their business.


We surely are observing an apparent push (and demand) for greener marketing campaigns. As a business, you can promote your brand in an impactful way — by showcasing your support (and pledge) for sustainable travel. Incorporating green messages throughout your campaign life cycle indirectly demonstrates your commitment to the environment, reminding your customers that you care. More than just serving as a reminder of your brand, thanks to a high brand recall, it also encourages sustainable habits among your customers.

 

Attractive and functional travel organisers that double as passport holder to ensure all important travel docs are safely stored. Made from durable and sustainable materials, e.g. felt, PU leather, and rPET, our product specialists would be thrilled to share more insights into the best choice for your promotional travel gifts. Image credit: DTC World


Why we like it: Passport holders come in a variety of different fabrics and styles, and the best selection for you may depend on personal taste. But the ones made of recyclable materials surely offer that ‘little’ extras. These eco passport wallets maintain a slim silhouette in their bi-fold design, while also providing plenty of storage. Durable and weather-resistant, given its bold au naturel look, we think it makes a great option for any gifting campaigns.


Practical and pretty to look at — with some personalised touches, e.g. a brand logo or short messages — eco travel bags like this are geared up to add more ‘green’ hype to your sustainability campaigns and boost sales!


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, limited-time-only redemption campaigns, exclusive merchandise



Pair your luggage bag with an eco luggage tag, just like this one made from sustainable waterborne PU leather. Customise it with your brand logo or a personalised message to elevate your green marketing campaigns — we are sure your customers would certainly adore it! Image credit: DTC World



A thoughtful travel gift for any eco traveller, this USB adapter cable conversion — which comes with a bamboo storage box — is a handy all-in-one charging solution for those who are often on business travels. Image credit: DTC World


Why we like it: No need to fumble for the right connector in a mess, this portable adapter storage case has everything you need to charge and sync your devices. The eco bamboo case protects cable ends and prevents cables from getting tangled in the bag. This mini gadget gift set is yet another highly desirable promotional gift inspiration to boost any travel-themed campaign!


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, limited-time-only redemption campaigns, exclusive merchandise, travel businesses, hospitality and tourism industry


Image credit: DTC World


At DTC World, we are constantly looking for something distinctive when it comes to an impactful — one-of-a-kind — promotional gift to enhance your brand visibility. From materials and designs to functionality, by including sustainable elements in your promotional gifts, you are telling your customers more about your brand. Plus, it’s an opportunity to showcase that your brand has some personality. By advocating for a strong cause, you can also elevate your digital storytelling — and further solidify your corporate PR. In a nutshell, it’s what customers expect — and it's good for business.


Customised Mascot Foldable Cup that comes in various vibrant colours. Image credit: DTC World


Why we like it: A compact and sustainable to-go eco travel tumbler or mug to bring along with you wherever you’re heading — this vibrant-coloured collapsible cup allows for fancy personalisation, ie. customised design of your preferred mascot or character on the lid. A perfect travel companion, it’s portable and made of food-grade silicone. (Enjoy your favourite beverage, hot or cold, as you please!)


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, limited-time-only redemption campaigns, event giveaways



Double Layer Wheat Straw Tumbler with Phone Stand. Image credit: DTC World


Why we like it: The essential travel companion for coffee and tea enthusiasts. A reusable tumbler to promote sustainable travel, this ergonomically designed wheat straw tumbler also comes with a handphone holder at the base of the tumbler!


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, redemption campaigns, event giveaways



Practical and attractive Bamboo Cutlery Set, comes packaged in a natural jute presentation bag. Image credit: Jungle Culture/Facebook


Why we like it: This bamboo utensil set is particularly convenient and handy for backpackers. With a full-fledged eco vibe, from the cutlery to the holder (pouch) — where you can effortlessly add your preferred personalisation touches — there’s nothing that we don’t adore about this eco travel gift idea! (Enjoy your favourite beverage, hot or cold, as you please!)


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, redemption campaigns, event giveaways


 

An easy-carry Travel Cosmetic Pouch. Image credit: DTC World


Why we like it: An easy-carry portable cosmetic pouch to keep your beauty essentials packed neatly when you hit the road. Compactly attractive, and simply convenient, it will surely make your travelling experience as stylish as the destination. Suitable to store your beauty must-haves, tech gadgets or other daily essentials — this is the perfect answer to stay organised, at home or during travel.


We particularly adore its minimalistic design inspiration that comes with useful and convenient collapsible dividers! A smart and chic space-savvy promotional gift idea that’s perfect for any marketing campaign.


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, redemption campaigns, event giveaways



An aesthetically pleasing Flat Fold Mini Umbrella with Casing. Image credit: DTC World


Why we like it: Perfect for light travelling to keep you protected from any downpours or blazing sun — this lightweight mini travel companion comes in an assortment of bright colours. A compact 6-fold umbrella that makes a stunning fashion statement while travelling!


Ideal for: promotional giveaways, redemption campaigns, event giveaways



How to amplify your brand with sustainable promotional gifts?

Apart from making a strong first impression on your recipients, eco-friendly gifts showcase your brand’s green initiatives and build brand loyalty. They do more than just protect our planet, as they are practical and have high usability.


If you missed our previous article, here’s a good blog re-cap on the benefits of sustainable materialshow they extend beyond environmental effects, and enhance your brand image and versatility.


______________________________________

Closing Thoughts

By supporting sustainable travel and tourism, we can make a positive difference in the world while still enjoying our travel experiences. Whether you're a traveller or a business owner, embracing sustainable travel is not only a responsible choice; but also an opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future.


If you’d love to find out more about the sustainable travel gift ideas we’ve shared in this blog to complement your upcoming event or campaign, just put our team to work — and our product and gift experts would be more than happy to fill you in.


Here's more ideas and inspirations to 'green up' your marketing campaigns:

How To Market Your Brand With Eco-Friendly Promotional Shopper Bags and Totes

Your Ultimate Guide to a Winning Promotional Cooler Bag That’s Too Cool for Any Marketing Campaign

Refreshing Eco-Friendly Alternatives for Your Corporate Giveaways and Event Gift Ideas 

Impress Your Clients With These Amazing Sustainable Leather Premium Corporate Gift Ideas