Traveling more sustainably isn’t about limiting how much we fly or how long it takes us to dive there. Most people realize that being more eco-conscious when traveling is far more than simply about how you arrive at your destination. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be aware of how you are traveling. So how can you look to be more sustainable when you travel? Here are some sustainable travel tips to help you be a more eco-friendly traveler!
Sustainable tips for traveling
You can still enjoy a vacation; you simply need to put more thought and effort into planning it before you go to make sure you can reduce your carbon footprint as much as possible.
How you travel
Some destinations require you to fly there or use other forms of transport. If you need to fly, pack as light as possible and always try to travel in economy. This will keep your carbon footprint lower than if you take a lot of luggage and fly business/first class. Also, if you can, take your time. Travel slower if you can, for example, via public transport or even by bicycle or even on foot.
Accommodation
Look to stay at locally owned accommodation – think Airbnb, guest houses, couch surfing, or even campsites if you are a fan of sleeping outdoors. If you can, you may want to take your own tent for this option. If you are traveling in a large group, look for the best 14 person tent to cut down on luggage. This option is ideal for festivals.
If you need to stay at hotels or tourist orientated facilities or resorts, see how eco-friendly they are with regards to things such as solar panels, reducing plastic usage, and single-use items such as cutlery and cups. Bonus points go for locally sourced foods and employing locals to work on-site or to undertake repairs and provide building materials.
It is much more sustainable if your money is put right back into the local economy and supports local business and, of course, the local area.
Tourism
Think carefully about the activities you undertake as a tourist when on vacation. The more you support local businesses, including restaurants, the more sustainable your trip will likely be. Explore on foot or by going on eco-friendly trips. Check out any ‘green’ credentials to ensure companies aren’t making claims that allude to them being sustainable when they aren’t.
If you are planning on taking up activities such as snorkeling during your trip, make sure to pay attention to coral so as not to damage it. Go in smaller groups and wear sunscreen that is coral friendly.
Alternatively, volunteer with local organizations to help communities and learn more about the area you are visiting. Do your homework beforehand to be sure your time and money will be used directly back into the community to help support the people and the place you are visiting.
Remember: traveling sustainably isn’t about how you get to your destination; it is also about what you do when you are there. Research your destination and your options thoroughly before you arrive so you can be sure you can reduce your carbon foot during your trip. And we hope these sustainable travel tips are helpful as you plan your next trip.