Most of us look forward to the next trip with enthusiasm. Exploring new cultures, landscapes, and experiences is one of life’s greatest pleasures. However, the negative environmental impact of tourism is rather obvious. From carbon emissions to wildlife disruption, we are risking to cause serious harm to our planet. Let’s explore how we can become more conscious and adopt sustainable travel practices, including budget-friendly and family-friendly advice.
What are the sustainability levels?
Before getting deeper, let’s see what different levels of sustainability are. The level will depend on your comfort and commitment. These can broadly be categorised into three tiers:
- Basic. We are talking about small changes we can make when travelling, e.g. reduce waste and support local businesses and artisans.
- Moderate. This next step includes significant adjustments to become more sustainable during travel. We would focus on green accommodation, mobility and offsetting carbon emissions.
- Advanced. This requires preparation and is considered a comprehensive approach. We are talking about slow travel and actively engaging in conservation activities.
How to plan a sustainable trip?
The first step towards sustainable travel is the research that allows us to select a destination with sustainability in mind. Some cities, like Copenhagen and Amsterdam, are known for their sustainable practices and have a bike-friendly infrastructure for moving around. Countries like Costa Rica are known for their conservation efforts and eco-tourism. We will further discuss sustainable travel destinations in a separate article.
Some useful sustainable travel tools like Ecosia Travel, Green Travel Guide and TripIt can help you with your eco-friendly journey. Ecosia Travel is a search engine that can help find eco-friendly accommodation. Plus they plant trees with their ad revenue. Green Travel Guide offers information on sustainable destinations and responsible travel advice. TripIt can help organise travel plans and pair with carbon offset programs.
Sustainable Travel Tips for Booking a Flight
- Fly direct whenever possible to reduce carbon emissions.
- Consider carbon offsetting. Most airlines offer programs that allow you to compensate for your emissions by investing in environmental projects.
- Fly economy class as more people per flight translates into a lower carbon footprint per passenger.
Choosing the Accommodation
- It is best to start by searching for eco-friendly hotels in your chosen travel destination. Certifications such as LEED, Green Key, and Earth Check can indicate great conscious choices.
- Airbnb or Home Sharing is another great option to reduce the negative environmental impact while contributing to the local economy.
- Camping and Glamping are great sustainable travel options for nature lovers.
In Destination sustainable travel tips
- Reduce Waste. Avoid single-use plastic. Pack your reusable water bottle, canvas shopper, utensils, solid shampoo, conditioner, shower bars, etc.
- Support Local Economies by eating in local restaurants, street vendors or farmer’s markets. Instead of mass-produced souvenirs, buy crafts from local artisans.
- Prioritise Low Impact Mobility. Public transport, cycling and walking are all great. If that is not possible, rent an electric or hybrid vehicle.
How to be more sustainable during family trips?
Travelling with family is much more complex and can undoubtedly challenge our sustainable travel plans. But there are ways to be eco-friendly even when travelling with kids.
First up is accommodation. Choose family-friendly eco-accommodation. They often offer family rooms, playgrounds, and children’s menus sourced from local ingredients. On top of that, they might have educational programs and activities promoting sustainability.
Another important aspect is packing light and smart for your family trip. Always prioritise sustainable travel gear that is biodegradable or at least recyclable. That could be organic fabric clothing, solid toiletries, bamboo toothbrushes, safety razors, and reusable water bottles. Creating a holiday capsule wardrobe for each family member is a great way to save space. Check out my beach vacation capsule for inspiration and tips.
Digital entertainment can also be a space and time saver. Try loading tablets with e-books, movies and games to avoid bringing physical books and toys on your trips.
Kids should be involved. Vacation is a great way to educate children. Try eco-friendly attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, botanical gardens and eco-museums. Kids also enjoy nature activities like hiking, and bird watching. You could also involve kids in beach clean-ups which is a fantastic way to teach them about the environment and our negative impact.
Tight Budget Sustainable Travel Tips
Travelling is often expensive. Then considering sustainable travel options seems like an impossible task. However, eco-friendly tourism doesn’t have to be costly, here are some tips:
Travel during the low season and opt for a longer stay. Travelling during off-peak times can be much more affordable, saving you money on travel expenses and accommodations. Plus it helps reduce pressure on destinations and allows one to explore and appreciate those destinations more.
Opt for budget accommodation such as hostels, guesthouses or house swapping. These options are more sustainable and cheaper than large hotels. Plus you get to know and live like a local.
Prepare your meals. Choosing accommodation with a good-sized fridge and cooking facilities is a top priority. Shop in local markets for fresh and genuine ingredients. Prepare a packed lunch for your day trips to cut down on disposable packaging.
Another great money-saving strategy is to engage in free or low-cost activities in your destination. Walking around does not cost a dime. Most national parks, hiking trails, beaches, forests, etc. are free, but some will have a minimum entrance fee. You can also enjoy some free museums, community events, and festivals. Or opt for donation-based events.
Advances Sustainable Travel Tips
If you are looking for a real challenge diving deep into sustainable travel principles, here are some advanced tips:
Slow Travel. Plan longer stays and spend more time in fewer places. That will significantly reduce your trip’s carbon footprint. While at the destination, use alternative transport like buses, trains, and boats. Avoid flying.
Choose Responsible Wildlife Tourism. Not all wildlife encounters are ethical, and you should avoid those at all costs. Choose tours and activities that respect animal welfare and engage in environmental preservation. Support wildlife sanctuaries and rehabilitation centres. You might be able to volunteer.
Join Conservation Projects. You could even choose your destination based on the project dearest to your heart. There are many initiatives around the world. These may include wildlife monitoring, community development initiatives, habitat restoration, etc.
Join Eco-Tourism Programs. These programs support environmental education and conservation efforts. You can learn new things and upgrade your sustainability skills while on vacation.
Final Thoughts
Sustainable travel should not be seen barely as a passing trend. It is rather a crucial necessity. We should collectively search for ways to preserve the environment and support local communities when out and about. This way we can appreciate more and enrich our travel experiences. And educate the younger generations to respect and protect our beautiful planet. So, for your next trip, pack with a green heart. Happy travels!
