9 Easy DIY Projects for Travel Junkies and Outdoorsy Types

From waterproof duffels and drawstring bags to solar phone chargers and ovens, these DIY projects make your next camping weekend, road trip, or tropical vacation a bit more eco-friendly. And if you don't have plans to get away, then a simple hammock, citronella candles, and travel games can at least make you feel like you're on vacation—even if you never leave your backyard. Once you've seen which projects we think are worth your time, click over to our slideshow and vote for your favorites.

1. Tired of hot-dogs-on-a-skewer and s'mores making up the bulk of your not-so-balanced diet on camping trips? These instructions for putting together an easy, inexpensive solar oven mean you can be chowing down on cookies, muffins, bacon, and other irresistible goodies even in the middle of nowhere.

2. You've already got your pack all ready to go, but this drawstring bag is a handy way to catch the loose odds and ends that stack up just before a big trip—or for keeping all your kids' toys, favorite stuffed animals, and books within easy reach.

3. Whether your next trip has you enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors or spending a few hours in the car on the way to Grandma's house, this set of travel games made to fit in an empty Altoids tin is a pocket-friendly way to keep the younger set (and, ok, the adults, too) occupied.

4. Part of traveling light is ditching your full-sized shampoo bottles, soap bars, and other toiletries for smaller versions that take up less space (and trim some weight off your bag). But instead of shelling out for the items in the travel aisle at your drugstore, DIY your own travel kit with this guide.

5. Luggage tags are a great way to spot your suitcases on the baggage carousel—and get them returned to you promptly if they missed your flight—but using a standard, same-as-everyone-else's version makes them slightly less effective. Use empty yogurt containers to make your own eye-catching identification that will stand out from the crowd.

6. From weekends in the woods to simple backyard escapes, a hammock is a relaxing, comfortable alternative to camp chairs and wooden furniture. Make your own wherever you are with this 10-minute tutorial; all you need is a rope and a blanket.

7. Even if you're not able to get away this weekend, you can turn your own yard into a peaceful retreat; just make sure to put out these homemade citronella candles made in empty tins to keep your outdoor living space bug-free.

8. Bikes are an easy, energy-saving way to get around—even on vacation, when bringing your own can keep you out of your gas guzzler for quick trips to refill your snack food supplies—and this DIY cargo carrier means you can haul even more groceries, beach gear, or hiking equipment while you're away.

9. Expecting some rain? Keep your gear dry with this pattern for a simple duffel bag made from old umbrella fabric—the outside will be as water-resistant as your old umbrella, while you'll be saving useless rain gear from the trash.

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