Travel offers a way to explore new cultures, landscapes, and experiences, but it can also come with an environmental impact. Sustainable travel is about making thoughtful choices that minimize harm to the planet while supporting local communities and preserving destinations for future generations.
What does that mean for most travelers? “Travelers can include as many sustainable elements as they wish – some clients will only book low carbon transport and tours, others may want to focus on accommodation in eco lodges or properties with strong sustainability credentials or opt for experiences that give back to the community,” says Audley Travel’s Global Sustainability Manager, Sabrina Parker. Here are her eco-friendly tips for travel.
5 Eco-friendly Packing Tips
Small changes, like traveling with a reusable water bottle, helps the planet in big ways.
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- Refillable Water Bottles: Skip single-use plastics; pack a refillable bottle, and if offered another one at your hotel, feel free to decline.
- Reusable Shopping Bags: Useful for any purchases and a great way to avoid plastic bags.
- Pack Thoughtfully: Recycle packaging before you leave home, and if you have used batteries, bring them back for proper disposal.
- Reusable Essentials: Carry a reusable coffee cup, cutlery set, and ask for drinks without straws to reduce waste.
- Solid Toiletries: Travel soap and shampoo bars are compact and cut down on plastic packaging.
5 Eco-conscious Itinerary Choices
Traveling by train and other local transportation is a good first step in sustainable travel practices.
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- Fly Economy: Flying economy has a lower environmental impact than other classes.
- Choose Ground Transport: Where possible, take trains or buses instead of domestic flights to reduce carbon emissions.
- Low-impact Activities: Opt for excursions on foot or by bike instead of car rides to experience a destination sustainably.
- Support Local Businesses: Dining at locally-owned restaurants, especially those sourcing food locally, supports communities.
- Stay at Green Hotels: Look for accommodations that utilize renewable energy and prioritize sustainability practices.
7 Sustainable Travel Tips
Spending time in nature as well as interacting with local cultures are two good eco-friendly travel tips.
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Here are other tips to embrace sustainable travel practices.
- Choose Low-Impact Destinations: Some destinations have a well-developed infrastructure for sustainability, such as Costa Rica, New Zealand, and Bhutan. These countries often prioritize eco-friendly practices and protect their natural resources, offering travelers a range of low-impact activities.
- Consider Timing and Duration: Traveling during off-peak seasons can reduce the strain on popular destinations, as well as save you money. Additionally, opting for fewer, longer trips rather than frequent short ones can lower your overall carbon footprint.
- Research Before You Go: Familiarize yourself with the environmental and social issues affecting your destination. Understanding these challenges can help guide your actions and show respect to the communities you visit.
- Reduce Energy Use in Hotels: Treat your hotel room like your home. Turn off lights, air conditioning, and electronics when not in use, and reuse towels and bed linens. Small actions make a big difference, especially in destinations that rely on limited resources.
- Choose Eco-Friendly Travel Gear: If you need to buy new travel gear, look for brands with environmental certifications, such as B Corporations. Many companies offer items made from recycled materials, sustainable fabrics, and responsible production processes.
- Minimize Water Usage: In many parts of the world, water is a scarce resource. Take shorter showers, turn off the tap when brushing your teeth, and avoid requesting daily laundry services in hotels.
- Buy Local Souvenirs: Choose handcrafted items from local artisans rather than mass-produced goods. By supporting local craftspeople, you’re helping to preserve traditional arts and contribute directly to the community’s economy.
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