Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Green is the New Black

Sustainability. It’s a hot trend that doesn’t seem to be dying down. But for travelers, it’s sometimes daunting. The number of eco-friendly hotels grows every day but finding other eco-friendly products while on vacation can be challenging. Instead of searching for sustainable products, why not bring them with you? At The Manual, we’ve selected a few items no man should be without while on vacation. With the country still in winter’s grip, getting away from it all but still staying true to your eco-friendly soul isn’t a herculean task anymore.

Travel Bags

Recommended Videos

Portland, Maine–based Seabags designs handmade totes and duffel bags made of recycled sails. Totes feature nautical themes such as anchors, octopi and ropes but the specialty bag line—from wine bags to duffles to iPad cases and log carriers—is especially noteworthy. We particularly love the Tanbark Duffle ($225), which features a Tanbark sail and six-inch exterior pocket, making it the perfect piece for a weekend jaunt out of town. Seabags can also customize totes, duffles and weekender bags to your specifications.

Chess Sets

Raining on the beach and you’re stuck inside? Get your game on with a handmade chess set ($39.99) from India made of polished soapstone, a metamorphic rock comprised of talc. Soapstone has been used in India for centuries and these chess pieces, made by Jaipur artisan Rakesh Pathak, are a testament to that craftsmanship. The soapstone pieces sit on a soapstone chess board but are nestled in a wooden box when not in use, making packing and unpacking a breeze.

Hammocks

On a warm summer night, what is more refreshing than lying in a hammock, staring at the stars? Australian designer Adam Cornish crafted a hammock (price upon request) out of plantation-grown plywood—rather than the more common cotton or canvas—and ensured its flexibility by using rubber veterbra between wooden rows. The hammock resembles a bug, wafting in the breeze but its sleek design using sustainable materials ensure it will live longer than any pesky bug.

Grooming Products

No list of vacation necessities would be complete without toiletries. While many men forgo shaving daily while on vacation, we still need to be well groomed. Enter Bulldog grooming products. The British-based company was created by men for men. While many men’s grooming products are filled with synthetic dyes, perfumes and parabens, Bulldog lists every ingredient. And they are all natural. From after shave balms to moisturizers to shower gels and shaving creams, Bulldog has you covered. But not in unnecessary chemicals.

Shandana A. Durrani
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Shandana A. Durrani has been a magazine editor and travel writer for more than two decades. Her work has appeared in numerous…
Topics
JJJJound and PUMA drop two chic, dark suede Mostros
JJJJound and PUMA update the Mostro sneaker
puma x jjjjound sneakers

While the Mostro has become the star of Puma’s recent releases, it’s been hard to classify the sneaker as anything but a statement design. Made to be seen, the Mostro’s often chunky silhouette is far from the slim look of its competitor, Adidas’ Samba sneaker. However, in its newest release, Puma has partnered up with JJJJound for a new minimalist look that delivers a subdued design to this iconic silhouette. JJJJound is no stranger to remixing iconic shoes, having done so in the past with other iconic brands like ASICS and New Balance. True to their brand, JJJJound has introduced a new minimalist look for the Mostro, making it a versatile option for Puma footwear fans. 

JJJJound and Puma bring minimalism to the Mostro

Read more
Oliver Peoples and Alex Israel release charity eyewear for L.A. wildfire relief
Oliver Peoples and Alex Israel unite for Los Angeles
pairs of oliver peoples x alex israel

After devastating wildfires that plagued the Los Angeles area in January 2025, it didn’t take long for brands to jump in on the action. These wildfires, which burned over 180,000 acres according to Cal Fire, brought massive destruction and fatalities to the areas of Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, and more. While the wildfires are long gone, residents of these locations are still reeling to get back on their feet. 

In response to the devastation, Oliver Peoples has collaborated with contemporary artist Alex Israel on a special edition of the brand’s Oliver Sun frames. To help aid victims, 100% of sales will be donated to the Steadfast LA Foundation’s Modular Housing Initiative, which is currently assisting underinsured residents in getting back on track in their communities. With an accompanying campaign featuring Miranda Kerr, DJ Diplo, and Eric Nam, this project highlights what makes Los Angeles a home to these artists. 

Read more
KEEN reimagines the Targhee hiker as a rugged American-built work boot
Keen releases a new stylish work boot
Keen utility boot

While Keen has made its name for its durable and rugged sandal options, its newest release is an ideal fit for all workmen looking for safety and versatility. Based on their hiking shoes, the latest release reimagines the model into a work boot that can efficiently function on and off the worksite. Crafted with Keen’s outdoor-ready technology and features, the newest boot continues the trend of versatile options that you can wear at work and as a casual option for your time off. Built in Keen’s United States-based factory, this work boot is unlike the traditional silhouettes you’re used to. 

Keen Utility reimagines the work boot with style and comfort

Read more