With over 7000 miles of coastline, 10 national parks, and 46 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the UK has a wealth of idyllic destinations to explore this summer if you opt to holiday closer to home.
After over a year of having to stay at home more than not, embrace the outdoors again by immersing yourself in nature, equipped with some of our top Vegan Trademark certified selections to make your trip one to remember for all the right reasons! From sunscreen and bug spray to vegan hiking boots, we have some great recommendations to get you started.
Pack it all in
First of all, you’re going to need a backpack to carry essentials and free up your hands for photos, whatever activities you get up to this summer. If you don’t already have a trusty fave, check out KULA. Their vegan friendly collection of backpacks use a reinforced paper material that is recognised by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) as being sourced sustainably from responsibly managed forests. Showerproof, and as strong and durable as a canvas bag, this lightweight end environmentally friendly option may be just what you’ve been looking for. Available to purchase here.
Stay Clean, Healthy and Protected
From sun cream to anti-bacterial wipes, here are some products to help you stay clean, healthy, and protected on your travels:
Sun Care
The Inkey List SPF 30 Daily Sunscreen
A broad-spectrum SPF should be part of your daily skincare routine anyway, but it is absolutely vital when you’re outside in the sun this summer. This 100% mineral formula containing zinc oxide is non-comedogenic, non-irritating and reef safe. Best of all? There’s no white cast thanks to the low level non-cosmetic tint to help counterbalance and assist blending into the skin. Available here.
ASDA Protect SPF 50+ Cooling Clear Sun
The entire Protect sun care range by ASDA is registered with The Vegan Trademark, widely accessible across the UK and a great affordable option. Try the Cooling Clear Sun mist for just £3.50! The non-greasy formula is easily absorbed and quick-drying, and it contains Vitamin E to help protect against skin damage. Available here and at Asda stores nationwide.
Incognito Insect Repellent
Easy to forget but crucial if you’re in the countryside. Don’t let your trip be ruined by itchy bites and make sure Incognito’s award-winning vegan anti-mosquito Insect Repellent spray is at the top of your packing list. Available here.
Incognito Luxury Loofah with Java Citronella Soap
Save on bringing bottles of shower gel and a loofah or sponge, and instead try the 2-in-1 Luxury Loofah Soap by Incognito – a natural loofah containing a Java citronella, olive and coconut oil soap. Unlike ordinary soaps, the citronella bar inside does not attract insects and the pure olive and coconut oils create a rich, smooth texture, perfect for daily use. Available here
The Cheeky Panda Anti-Bacterial Surface Wipes
Anti-bacterial wipes are an essential on a camping trip, particularly now, but they don’t have to cost the earth. The Cheeky Panda’s Anti-Bacterial Surface Wipes have a natural formula and are biodegradable and compostable.. Available here.
The Cheeky Panda Bamboo Travel Pack Toilet Tissue
You may not think of bringing your own loo roll, but you’ll be glad you have it if you’re ever caught out in public bathrooms! Made from pure bamboo with no chemicals, and packaged in a handy travel size pack, these multifunctional tissues will be an invaluable addition to your backpack. Available here.
Dr Bronner’s Organic Peppermint Hand Hygiene Spray
Hand sanitizer is an absolute must for daily life now, but especially when travelling and potentially encountering a variety of people and surfaces. Certified organic and fair trade, the active ingredient, ethyl alcohol, is 99.9% effective against germs while the peppermint oil leaves behind an uplifting scent. Available here
Boot up
The UK has a huge variety of walking paths from more accessible rambles to hiking up Snowdon or Ben Nevis. Dress for the occasion and go equipped with the right gear. Eco Vegan Shoes’ All Terrain Pro Hiker walking boots are not only Vegan Trademark certified, but the trademark is embossed on the outside so you can wear your animal-friendly footwear with pride! Anti-slip, water-resistant and breathable, this shoe will take you wherever you want to explore. Available here.
Refuel by the fire
If you choose to camp somewhere that allows campfires, there is no better way to get cosy in an evening. Get the fire going with The Vegan Wax Wrap Company’s Vegan Wax Eco Friendly Firelighters. They are made using cut-offs from their Vegan Wax Wraps, reducing waste and providing a chemical-free alternative to get your fire going. Available here.
Take the stress out of cooking when you’re away and try Lazy Vegan’s Tikka Masala. A frozen meal you can bring in a cool bag, simply heat in a pan for 8-10 minutes and pair with ready-made pilau rice from ASDA. With four tasty options, you’re bound to find something to enjoy!
Finally, if s’mores by the fire sounds like a dream to you but you didn’t know where to start with vegan ingredients, look no further! Top tip: American style crackers are tricky to get hold of in the UK, but the classic digestive biscuit makes for a close alternative. Toast these ingredients on a stick over the fire:
- ASDA’s Digestive biscuits
- Ananda’s Vanilla Marshmallows
- Galaxy’s Vegan Smooth Orange Bar (for a twist)
Capture the memories
Why not take a digital detox and challenge yourself to try something new? Keep a journal of your trip with this A5 Journal from A Good Company. With soft faux leather and waterproof and tear resistant paper, this luxurious notebook will be the perfect companion for you to doodle, write and stick pictures and tickets from all your adventures.
We hope you’ve found some inspiration and helpful vegan alternatives for your outdoor adventures this summer! Remember to always follow local travel guidance and respect the outdoor spaces you explore.
By Vegan Society Marketing Assistant, Charis Collier.
The views expressed by our bloggers are not necessarily the views of The Vegan Society.
