I Want To Normalise Bringing My Reusable Containers To Restaurants

In today’s fast-paced, convenience-driven world, single-use plastics have become a significant part of our dining experiences. From takeout containers to disposable cutlery, these items contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution. But what if we could change this by normalizing the use of reusable containers at restaurants? In this blog post, I’ll share my experiences and thoughts on bringing my own containers to eateries, and why I believe it’s time for a shift towards sustainability in our dining culture. So, let’s dive into my journey of dining out with reusable containers and explore the benefits of this eco-friendly habit.

How I Make My Love Of Dining Out More Sustainable

We all know how much I love dining out and ordering takeout. Honestly with the current prices and lack of quality produce in the local supermarkets, I feel it isn’t that expensive to dine out. I find main meals these days are bigger enough for at least 2 portions, or my stomach has shrunk and I just can’t eat like I used to.

Whenever I dine out, I always bring my stainless steel Ever Eco container, my set of 3 nesting round containers and mini sauce containers. Now I don’t always use them, because I am still conscious and scared of the stares and the weird looks I get.

As a solo traveller, I eat out by myself a lot. Working in hospitality for so long my eating schedule is not the same as a lot of people’s. I also like that I can eat whenever I want and don’t have to consider anyone when I’m deciding where to eat.

So naturally I eat alone a lot of the time and I actually really enjoy it. It might sound odd, but I really love my own company and am so confident and safe in my own presence, I don’t need others around me to be able to enjoy my time. Don’t get me wrong, I love hanging out with others and love social interactions. I just really enjoy hanging out with myself. Is that weird?

I love being able to pick and choose where I go and what I get to eat. The only downside is when I find a restaurant I really love. I would love to order loads of items from the menu, but as a single diner that’s not sustainable, for my stomach or my wallet. So having a friend or two would be wonderful to share the experience and be able to try more items on the menu.

Back to the matter at hand, normalising reusable containers at restaurants. Would you take your own containers for your leftovers or would you accept their containers?

Advantages of bringing your own reusable containers

I think being able to use our own, helps the restaurants with their stock on hand. If we use our own containers for our leftovers, they wouldn’t have to buy takeaway containers and therefore prevent more single-use containers from being produced. Is this me overanalyzing because I work in hospitality and understand how much it costs to order takeaway containers? The space they take up and just how these containers don’t bring any profit to the business is and always will be an extra expense.

The amount of space takeaway containers take up in a restaurant storeroom is mind-blowing, you can’t buy these containers in small batches. Usually, they come in a box of 500 or 1000, which is a lot of containers. There is always a minimum order requirement, so you always have way too many.

When I dine out, I don’t see anyone bringing their reusable containers, so it makes me a little self-conscious when I do it. I cannot wait until we are in a world where this is the norm and everyone brings their own containers. Hopefully, with the single-use plastic bans that are slowly rolling out, and more sustainable eco-warriors promoting reusable containers, I can finally feel comfortable and confident when I use my containers.

Overcoming Hesitations and Encouraging Others

It’s natural to feel hesitant or self-conscious when introducing new habits, especially when they go against the norm. However, remember that every small step we take toward sustainability can make a difference. By using reusable containers, you are setting an example for others to follow. Share your experiences with friends and family, and encourage them to bring their own containers when dining out or getting takeout.

Is Your Kitchen Cupboard Full Of These? Bring One With You Next Time You Dine Out!

Not only will you help reduce single-use plastic waste, but you’ll also promote a sustainable dining culture for a greener future!

Conclusion – Normalising reusable containers at restaurants

By normalizing the use of reusable containers at restaurants, we can contribute to a more sustainable future and reduce our reliance on single-use plastics. It’s essential to overcome our hesitations, encourage others, and collaborate with restaurants to make this change a reality. Together, we can create a lasting impact on our environment and pave the way for a greener dining experience.

Need the perfect reusable container? Read our Ever Eco Bento Box review!