5 Ways to Go Plastic Free (without spending a dollar!)

Have you ever felt overwhelmed trying to stay up to date with all the plastic-free alternatives out there? This age of social media can often leave us feeling like we're less than if we don't have the next best thing, but usually that "next best thing" is gone just as quickly as it came. Here are a few ways to reduce your plastic use without spending any money:

1. Using no straw vs. buying a reusable straw: Many of us are lucky enough to not have to use a straw for medical/health purposes. In that case, we really don't need a straw anyway! Ditch the straw all together and save on buying a metal or glass straw.
2. Using your utensils vs. buying new bamboo cutlery: Sure, bamboo items are convenient because they are often sustainably made, lightweight, and reusable, but having new utensils is of no importance when reducing your plastic use. Grab your lunch box, throw in the utensils you already own, and you're good to go!
   
3. Trading clothes vs. buying new (or secondhand): This one may seem silly at first, but go with me here. Have you always loved that band t-shirt your sibling owns? Have you seen them wearing it less and less? Chances are, they're getting tired of it, just like you're getting tired of your clothes. Set up a swap! Schedule a fun get together where you and your friends bring in some old (but in decent condition) clothing and do a little clothing exchange. If you're really enjoying it, consider through in some accessories too!
   
4. Your own water bottle and cups vs. new: If you don't already own a reusable water bottle, this one could cost a little $, but it applies to travel mugs too. Instead of forcing yourself to drink your coffee on the go, leave the house 15 minutes early, bring your own mug, and enjoy a cup of coffee at your local coffee shop. People watching at a coffee shop is a fascinating thing to do. Reading is fascinating too! Bring a book with you instead of scrolling aimlessly on Instagram.
5. Bags and containers you already have vs. a new lunch box set: You know when you're at work and people pull out their perfectly fitting lunch boxes with matching utensils and cups? Chances are they struggled at home to try to get everything to fit nice and neatly in a non one size fits all kit. Where's the fun in that?! Use whatever you already have to properly hold your lunch. Don't have a lunch box to carry it in? Grab a tote bag, backpack, etc. and store it in that. Just be sure to properly seal anything with liquids so it doesn't spill...I've found that out the hard way!
   

What are some ways you save $ while going plastic free? I'd love to hear your tips and tricks!

- jamie