7 Eco-Friendly Habits Every Hiker Should Know

05 Jun 2025
By the Coastrek Team

Because every step should tread lightly on the planet.


At Coastrek, nature is at the heart of everything we do. Whether we’re soaking up a magic sunrise, strolling along windswept clifftops, or training for our next big adventure, we walk with deep appreciation for the world around us. It’s this connection that fuels our passion - and our responsibility - to protect it.

We’re celebrating the power and beauty of Mother Nature and encouraging our incredible trekker community to walk with care, tread with purpose, and inspire others to do the same.

Because small actions = big impact. Let’s walk the talk.

Next time you lace up your boots and head out into the wild, try these simple, planet-loving hiking habits:

Bring a Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Pack

Hydration is essential but so is ditching single-use plastics. A reusable water bottle or hydration pack is a trekker’s bestie - durable, reliable and far better for the planet. On Coastrek Event Days, head to our hydration stations and refill as much as you need. Choose BPA-free materials and, if you’re hiking in colder months, consider an insulated option to keep your water warm. Bonus points if you bring your reusable coffee cup for that post-hike cuppa (because let’s be honest, you’ve earned it).


Leave No Trace

“Take only photos, leave only footprints”  isn’t just a catchy phrase - it’s a golden rule. Always pack out what you pack in, including food scraps, tissues, and anything ‘natural’ that could still disrupt ecosystems. Carry a small rubbish bag, and if you see litter on the trail, pick it up. Every act of care matters. Leave the trail better than you found it - for the next trekker, and for the wildlife who call it home.  


Carpool or Use Public Transport

Getting to your hiking spot in a sustainable way can significantly cut down your carbon footprint. Wherever possible, organize a carpool with your Coastrek team or hiking buddies. Even better, take public transport and make it part of the adventure. Many incredible walks are accessible by train or bus - and while there might be a little extra walking involved, we know you don’t mind that one bit!



Ditch Plastic Wrap – Go Nude (With Your Snacks)

Snacks? Always! Waste? Never. Swap single-use cling wrap and plastic bags for reusable containers, beeswax wraps or silicone bags. Not only are they lighter on the planet, but they look way cuter in your pack (snack envy is real). Pro tip: Prep your snacks in bulk and share with your team - it’s less packaging, more bonding and all-round good vibes.




Choose Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Natural Bug Spray

Protecting your skin shouldn’t come at the cost of harming ecosystems. Many sunscreens and repellents contain chemicals that affect marine and freshwater life - even if you’re not near the beach. Choose reef safe, biodegradable formulas and natural sprays made with essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus or tea tree. They work just as well and smell a whole lot better.

We love Wotnot Naturals Sunscreen, one of our fave event partners. Fun fact: Trekker Goodie Bags include a discount code for 20% off their range, and you’ll find free samples at our Luv Stops on Coastrek Event Days!


Wear Sustainably Made Gear

Your gear shouldn’t cost the Earth - literally. Look for clothing and equipment made from recycled or responsibility sourced materials. Before buying new, check out secondhand stores or gear-swap groups in your area. When you invest in high-quality gear, take care of it: patch those holes, fix those zips, re-waterproof those jackets. A longer life for your gear means less waste for the planet.

Fun fact: Coastrek partner Kathmandu is a leader in sustainable outdoor gear, using recycled materials, ethical sourcing, and environmentally friendly manufacturing practices. Look good, feel great, hike lightly! You can find up to 50% off Kathmandu apparel in the Gear Up Discount Period leading up to Coastrek events - keep an eye out in your Goodie Bag!



Become a Nature Advocate

Every trekker has the power to inspire change. Share your eco habits with your team, post your sustainable swaps on social media, or join a local clean-up. You could even start your own! Walking with purpose isn’t just about reaching the finish line - it’s about walking in alignment with your values and setting a powerful example for others.



Let’s honour the trails we walk on by protecting them. By adopting just a few of these habits, you’ll reduce your impact, deepen your connection to nature, and inspire others to do the same. Together, let’s make every step count - for our health, our hearts and our beautiful planet.

Embrace the great outdoors and honour our beautiful environment by signing up to Coastrek today!