vacation – Raising Clean

A lot of people are taking vacations right now and while it’s harder to maintain a healthy and low tox lifestyle while away from home, it’s not impossible. Having a toxin-free summer vacation is a great way to prioritize your health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:

Choose a Natural Destination: Opt for vacation spots that are known for their natural beauty, such as national parks, forests, or beaches with clean water. Avoid areas with heavy pollution or known environmental hazards.
Research Accommodations: Look for accommodations that promote sustainability and use eco-friendly practices. Check if they have non-toxic cleaning products, organic bedding, and natural ventilation systems.
Pack Your Own Toxin-Free Products: Bring your own toiletries and personal care products that are free from harmful chemicals. Look for organic, natural, and biodegradable alternatives for items like sunscreen, insect repellent, shampoo, and soap. I will link some of my faves at the bottom of this post 🙂
Stay Hydrated with Clean Water: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered or purified water to avoid consuming water from potentially contaminated sources. This helps reduce your exposure to toxins and minimizes plastic waste. You can also get filtration water bottles, I will link one below.
Eat Organic and Local Foods: Seek out local farmers’ markets or organic food stores to buy fresh produce and ingredients for your meals. Choose organic options to reduce your exposure to pesticides, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). I’ll be heading to Florida next week and my roomies and I will be making a Publix run when we get in to stock up on healthy foods to have in our hotel room.
Avoid Fast Food and Processed Snacks: Steer clear of fast food chains and heavily processed snacks, as they often contain artificial additives, preservatives, and unhealthy trans fats. Opt for healthier alternatives like fresh fruits, nuts, or homemade snacks. I love eating out on trips but I always try to find the healthiest options and avoid fast food at all costs.
Embrace Natural Sun Protection: Shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs. Use a non-toxic mineral-based sunscreen (linked below) and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Choose Non-Toxic Activities: Engage in outdoor activities that don’t involve exposure to harmful substances. Instead of renting motorized watercraft, try kayaking, paddleboarding, or hiking. Avoid activities like smoking or being in proximity to secondhand smoke.
Minimize Plastic Waste: Reduce your use of single-use plastics by bringing your own reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and food containers. Dispose of any waste responsibly and recycle whenever possible.
Connect with Nature: Spend quality time in nature by hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Research shows that spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall well-being.

Remember, the key is to make conscious choices that prioritize your health and the environment. By implementing these tips, you can have a toxin-free and eco-friendly summer vacation without skimping on the fun!