With all the cold, overcast weather we’ve had here in Atlanta, I have to say we’ve time our vacation perfectly. Okay, so we actually had no choice in the matter thanks to my husband job, but still, heading to the beach in the dead of winter sounds practically perfect to me. So, in exactly one week (oh yes, I’m counting), I’ll be packing up my family of five and shoving off to a warm beach destination, which in the past has meant one gigantic eco nightmare.

Granted, it is vacation and so it’s going to be hard to keep things as green minded as I usually try to be, but thanks to so many exciting new products, it’s not that hard to go green on vacation.

Whether you’re flying off to an island resort, or just taking a long drive South for the winter, here are some great products that will help lessen your carbon footprint and still enjoy the sun and sand.

1. Green Toys Recycled Sand Play Set

Made from 100% recycled milk jugs, this completely pthalate and BPA free bucket and shovel set is perfect for occupying those kiddos for long beach days.

2. Reusable Sandwich Bags

My personal favorites are the “Lunch Skins” from 3Greenmoms.com. Not only are they hearty enough to not rip or tear easily, but you can pop them right in the dishwasher or easily rinse them out. Perfect for packing lunches!

3. Suntan Lotion

While definitely an essential step to spending any time in the sun, I’m betting that applying lotion to a wild hog might be easier than doing it to my kids. I’ve found the whole process to be much easier with SuperGoop!, a fantastic, natural lotion that comes in a handy pump. It’s also great for kids with sensitive skin.

4. Reusable Cloth Swim Diapers

Stocking up on a few reusable cloth swim diapers is my favorite eco friendly beach tip. You’ll save yourself so much money by doing this, and you won’t be stuffing the landfill full of waste.

5. BPA-Free Sippy Cups

There’s no shortage of BPA-free sippy cups these days, so stock up, particularly on the metal kind which will actually help to insulate your drinks. We’re partial to Klean Kanteen and SIGG, but lucky for all of us, there are lots of great choices!

Of course, there are lots of other great items to make your beach vacation eco-friendly. What are your must-haves?

[This post was written by Kristen Chase.]