There’s nothing quite like packing up the car and heading out for a few days at the lake or camping in the woods. Here in Saskatchewan, we’re lucky to have access to beautiful lakes, forests, and parklands. Some of my favourite memories include pitching a tent under the stars at Grasslands National Park, roasting marshmallows around a campfire in Fort Qu’Appelle campground, and walking along the beach at Waskesiu Lake.
This summer, I have plans with friends to do some hiking and overnight camping around the National Parks, so I have already started to think about my packing list and how I can adopt a low-waste mindset. It’s definitely a work in progress, but I’ve found the things that work for me:
Plan Like a Minimalist
I used to be an over-packer when it came to packing food on camping trips. Now, I make a meal plan and prep as much as I can at home. I portion out snacks into reusable containers, freeze a few meals ahead of time, and skip the last-minute gas station junk food run. My go-to meals when camping are “one-pot meals”. They’re easy to transport and share and use less packaging and fewer dishes.
Rent or borrow gear
If you only go camping one or two times a year, consider borrowing gear from friends, family or renting from outdoor retailers. Saskatoon has a Library of Things where people can borrow all kinds of items, including camping equipment.
Pack Reusables First
I keep a “camp kit”: reusable plates, real cutlery, metal cups, a dish bin, reusable ice packs, and a set of quick-dry towels and reusable Swedish sponge cloths. Not only does this cut down on waste, but I also don’t have to remember what to bring every time.
As I’ve become more intentional with my packing, I’ve discovered more low-waste swaps:
- Invest in durable, long-lasting gear. High-quality camping and cabin gear will last for many seasons and reduce the need for replacements.
- Use solar-powered products. Solar chargers, lanterns, flashlights, and GPS devices not only save on batteries but are also perfect for off-grid adventures.
- Ditch the disposables. Pack reusable water bottles, silicone snack bags, beeswax wraps, camping water bladders, bamboo utensils, and reusable food containers.
- Choose gear made from sustainable materials. Look for items made from organic cotton, recycled polyester, or post-consumer plastics – many outdoor brands now offer eco-conscious options.
- Go chemical-free. Pick sleeping bags, pads, and camping gear free from harmful flame retardants. Choose non-toxic bug sprays, sunscreens, and body products that are safer for both you and the environment.
- Use biodegradable soaps and toiletries. There are plenty of options for safe, biodegradable body care products – or you can even make your own.
The Water Bottle Rule
If there’s one thing that’s made the biggest difference for me, it has been the no more single-use water bottles rule. Everyone gets their own reusable bottle and we bring a big jug to refill throughout the weekend. This one simple swap has kept hundreds of bottles out of the landfill over the summers.
Rethink Convenience
I used to bring paper towels, napkins, and wipes for everything. Now, I pack a small stash of washable cloths for spills, hand towels for drying, and a little wash station setup. Honestly, they work better – and I feel good knowing I’m not generating bags of garbage by the end of the trip.
Respect Nature, Even When No One’s Watching
- Pack it in, pack it out. A habit I’ve picked up: doing a quick “garbage walk” before leaving the campsite or cabin. Even if it’s not my litter, I’ll pick up anything I see. It feels good to leave the space cleaner than I found it.
- Reduce potential water contamination. Don’t wash dishes directly in a lake or stream. Carry wastewater 60 metres away from natural water sources. (Leave No Trace)
In the end, camping and cabin life are about slowing down and connecting with the beautiful world around us. A low-waste approach fits right into that mindset – and helps make sure these beautiful Saskatchewan spaces stay clean and wild for years to come.
