• Share full article

sustainable travel methods

How to Travel More Sustainably

Don’t skimp on doing your own research, and be aware that ‘green’ certificates aren’t always all they’re cracked up to be.

Credit... Gabriel Alcala

Supported by

By Paige McClanahan

  • April 22, 2021

So you’re vaccinated and eager to — finally — plan a real summer vacation after a rough year, but you don’t want to add to the problems you might have read about: overcrowding, climate change, unfair working conditions in the tourism industry. What’s a thoughtful traveler to do?

For those who want to travel responsibly, it comes down to this: You, the traveler, have to do your homework.

Looking for a hotel or tour operator that has earned a sustainability label might seem like a good place to start, but the reality isn’t so simple. There are around 180 certification labels floating around in the tourism industry, each purporting to certify the green credentials of a hotel, restaurant, tour operator or even a destination. And while some of those labels are well enforced, others might better be described as greenwashing — when a company portrays itself as an environmental steward, but its actions don’t match the hype.

“The range is enormous — from rigorous, impartial and excellent to, frankly, poor,” said Randy Durband, the chief executive of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council , a nonprofit organization that establishes and manages global standards for sustainable travel. “We strongly believe in the value of third-party certification, when it’s done right,” Mr. Durband added. “But the way the word ‘certification’ is used in tourism is out of control.”

Still, while the labels might be all over the map, many businesses are waking up to the importance of improving their environmental and social performance, said Andrea Nicholas, the chief executive of Green Tourism , an Edinburgh-based certification body with more than 2,500 members. The pandemic has brought the concept of sustainable tourism forward by five to 10 years, she said. Before, she added, many businesses saw sustainability as an “add-on.”

“What we’re seeing now, from the interest we’re getting, is that it’s a must-have,” she said.

There are some promising signs that consumers, too, are waking up to the consequences of their vacations. More than two-thirds of respondents to a recent seven-country global survey for American Express Travel said that they “are trying to be more aware of sustainability-friendly travel brands to support.” Another poll, this one for the digital travel company Booking.com, found that 69 percent of the more than 20,000 respondents “expect the travel industry to offer more sustainable travel options.”

What does “sustainable travel” mean, anyway?

Given the diversity of destinations and contexts that a traveler might encounter, there’s no universal answer to what sustainable travel means. A hotel’s water efficiency is a lot more important along Spain’s dry Mediterranean coastline than in rain-soaked western Scotland, for instance.

But experts say that the concept is about a lot more than just reusing the towels in your hotel room or buying a carbon offset for your flight, although those are good places to start.

Sustainability is also about the wages and working conditions of the people who are waiting tables on your cruise ship or schlepping your bag up a trail; it’s about the additional pressure you might be putting on an already-crowded city , heritage site or natural area ; it’s about whether your hotel buys its produce from a farm down the road or from a supplier on the other side of the world, or whether the money you spend goes into the community you’re visiting — or into the distant account of a multinational.

“What you need to do is marry the corporate social responsibility with an informed tourist consumer who knows what they’re asking for, and then demands it,” said Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, an adjunct senior lecturer in tourism at the University of South Australia. She listed some questions that travelers should ask themselves before they take their next trip: How can I travel in an off-peak time? How can I go to places that aren’t overcrowded? How can I ensure that the money I spend ends up in the local economy?

Johannah Christensen, a nonprofit executive and longtime concerned traveler, says that she always looks for some sort of reliable certification when she books a block of hotel rooms for an annual professional event. The Green Key label — a certification program that is headquartered in Copenhagen, where Ms. Christensen lives — is one that she has used in the past, but she is always sure to do some digging on her own. (This 2016 guide to some of the major tourism certifications can be a good starting point.)

“You can look for those green check marks, but understand what’s implied in them,” she said. “What does the hotel actually have to do to earn it? Don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

sustainable travel methods

How to do your homework

Asking questions — both while you’re traveling and, more important, before you book — is one of the most powerful things that travelers can do, said Gregory Miller, the executive director of the Washington, D.C.-based Center for Responsible Travel . He recommends people start by looking closely at the websites of the tour operators, hotels and destinations that they’re considering. If they don’t find any language about sustainability, “that should be a flag,” he said.

Beyond that, he suggests that travelers check his organization’s list of responsible travel tips , which include recommendations like hiring local guides, asking permission before taking photos of people, staying on designated trails in natural areas and thinking twice about handing out money to children. While they’re traveling, Dr. Miller said, people shouldn’t be afraid to ask difficult questions of their service providers, or to call out waste or abuse when they see it — whether directly to a manager or in an online review.

“Certification can be a tool in the toolbox, but don’t be limited by that,” Dr. Miller said. “It’s about choices, and travelers do have the choice.”

Susanne Etti, the environmental impact specialist at Intrepid Travel , a global tour operator based in Australia, had other tips for travelers. She said they could start by checking the list of the more than 230 travel organizations that have joined the Tourism Declares initiative, members of which have pledged to publish a climate action plan and cut their carbon emissions.

Another reliable indicator, she said, is whether a company has been classified as a “B Corporation” — a rigorous sustainability standard that’s not limited to the tourism industry. Her company, Intrepid, has achieved the distinction, as have the apparel company Patagonia and ice cream maker Ben & Jerry’s. The B Corporation website lists some three dozen companies in the “travel and leisure” sector — from a paddle sports company in Hawaii to an Ecuadorean tour bus operator. A number of other tourism businesses are listed under “hospitality,” including Taos Ski Valley and Orlando-based Legacy Vacation Resorts.

Dr. Etti also shared some of the advice that she follows in her own travels. “When you fly, make it count,” she said, adding that, before the pandemic, when she would travel from her current home in Australia to her native Germany, she would do the long-haul flight, but then choose trains or other less-polluting ways to get around Europe, even when cheap short-haul flights were readily available.

Dr. Etti also recommended that travelers learn to slow down. “Stay in one location longer,” she said, “to really understand how life works in that community.”

Rethinking what travel means

Many travelers also need a shift in mind-set, said Dominique Callimanopulos, the head of Elevate Destinations , an international tour operator based in Massachusetts that has won a number of awards for its commitment to sustainability. People should learn to see their travels as an opportunity for exchange with a host community rather than a simple consumer transaction. Ms. Callimanopulos said that even her sustainability-inclined clientele rarely do their homework: She has received more questions about the availability of hair dryers than about the company’s environmental or social practices.

“People can make a shift from thinking just about what their personal experience is going to be to looking at the impact of their experience on the ground, on the destination and on the community,” she said.

Lindblad Expeditions , which operates adventure cruises in destinations like Alaska, the Antarctic and the South Pacific, has also won awards for its approach to sustainability and for giving back to the communities it visits. Sven-Olof Lindblad, the company’s chief executive, said that he continues to see people spending up to $40,000 on an Antarctic cruise without doing any research on the practices of the company offering the trip.

“You wouldn’t just buy a car from an ad without understanding what it was and how it compared,” he said. “I’m absolutely amazed at how little diligence people sometimes do in relationship to travel.”

Mr. Lindblad recommended that, in addition to doing their own research, travelers could speak to a travel adviser or travel agent who can help them dig for answers that might not be readily available on a company’s website.

“When people choose to travel, they should really understand what they’re getting into,” he said, “because there’s a lot of smoke and mirrors in this business.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places list for 2021 .

Explore Our Style Coverage

The latest in fashion, trends, love and more..

Win Friends and Hustle People:  Ashwin Deshmukh, the managing partner of Superiority Burger, built a reputation as a nightlife impresario  by burning close friends, new acquaintances, big corporations, local bars and even his subletter.

Vintage Clothing Buffs:  Laverne Cox, Anna Sui and other enthusiasts shop at the Sturbridge Show, a gold mine for people who buy  and wear exquisite old things.

Making a Scene on the Radio:  In an era of podcasts and influencers, Montez Press Radio is reviving the D.I.Y. spirit  of a bygone downtown New York City.

Dressing the Part:  Women in media recently had a chance to browse and buy clothes owned by the trailblazing TV news anchor Barbara Walters .

Portland Soho House:  The status-conscious social club has landed in the Pacific Northwest’s crunchiest city. Some locals wonder why .

The Next Birkin:  Priscila Alexandre Spring, a bag designer and creative director of leather goods at Hermès, has the fun and formidable challenge of creating a new icon .

Advertisement

Protect Your Trip »

Sustainable travel: 6 ways to be an eco-conscious traveler.

Discover top things to consider while exploring the globe.

How to Be an Eco-Conscious Traveler

Aerial of train traveling through trees, illuminated by sun rays

Getty Images

There are plenty of ways to put sustainability in focus for your next vacation.

Finding sustainable ways to travel doesn't need to be burdensome. Sustainable travel is easier than you may think, whether you start by supporting local businesses or taking small steps to reduce your carbon footprint. One of the simplest things you can do is fly less, but there are so many different ways to be more intentional and responsible as you traverse the globe. This guide – with plenty of tips from U.S. News travel editors and sustainable travel experts – will help you make your future travels more sustainable and meaningful.

What is sustainable travel?

Traveling to new and exciting destinations, whether a stone's throw from home or on the other side of the world, can be a deeply rewarding experience. You have the opportunity to soak in new cultures and landscapes as you learn about the world around you – but you'll also want to consider how your visit may affect the places you go and the people who live there.

Sustainable travel means not only minimizing harm to the environment but also respecting and supporting local communities and economies. "It's not exploitative or degenerative to the host's culture, community, wildlife, ecosystem or economy," says Nora Livingstone, co-founder of Animal Experience International, a certified B Corporation that provides travelers with ethical animal-related experiences. "From the root of its name, it sustains."

Susanne Etti, global environmental impact manager at Intrepid Travel (an adventure travel company and certified B Corp), believes that great travel goes hand in hand with great responsibility. "Sustainable tourism is all about making simple choices to lessen your negative impact on a given destination," she explains. "It stresses the importance of reducing your carbon footprint and encourages travelers to step off the worn path and linger longer, respect cultural differences and invest in communities, reconnect with nature, and support organizations that are protecting the planet."

Why is sustainable travel important?

Sustainability matters just as much for travelers as it does for their host destinations. When you commit to more mindful travel, you help preserve awe-inspiring natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, not only for local citizens but also for future travelers.

"You may also have a more meaningful experience knowing that your impact on the place and people was a positive one," says Lindsey Lyons, director of sustainability learning at Dickinson College's Center for Sustainability Education.

Plus, it's important to consider sustainability as a way to protect attractions, scenic areas and destinations so that others may experience them in the decades ahead.

"Without a shift in focus to sustainable tourism, there would be little left of the places we want to visit," says Corey Determan, owner of the Bella Rose Travel agency, who has a master's degree in environmental education and 13 years of experience in ecotourism. "Implementing sustainable tourism practices ensures the survival of sensitive tourist destinations so that travelers may enjoy them for generations to come."

The choices you make while traveling have lasting effects. Opting to fly a short distance rather than take a train, for example, may save you a little bit of time – but perhaps not enough to make it worth the extra carbon emissions.

Traveling sustainably requires a balance of many factors, from your budget to the time you spend in transit. With even just a little extra planning, you can figure out what sustainable practices work best for you and how to incorporate them into your travels.

This guide will take you through tips for every step of the process, from choosing a destination to deciding what to pack.

Where to Go

Where to stay, what to pack, how to get there, what else to keep in mind.

Waterfalls and lush greenery on Flores Island, Azores, Portugal

Most trip planning begins with deciding where to go. There are many ways you can think sustainably at this step – examples include finding destinations focused on responsible tourism or exploring somewhere closer to home. Get ready to unearth some wonderful off-the-beaten-path locations.

Find places that promote sustainable tourism

One way to pick your travel destination is by consulting the Global Destination Sustainability Index rankings , which gives cities a sustainability score based on factors such as carbon emissions and public transport. Many Western European cities top the list, but there are places all over the world that focus on sustainability.

"The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago, has preserved 92% of the islands as green space and has a strong focus on renewable energy," says Elizabeth Von Tersch , a senior travel editor at U.S. News. " Victoria, British Columbia , is the first designated urban biosphere reserve in the U.S. or Canada and is going beyond net-zero emissions to become climate positive. Bhutan, the world's first carbon-negative country, enforces a sustainable development fee to preserve not only the environment but also Bhutan's people and culture."

As you're researching potential green destinations, look for signs that a place is committed to sustainability. "If a destination is focused on sustainable tourism, chances are this will be obvious in their marketing," Von Tersch advises. "But to avoid being a victim of deceptive greenwashing , make sure sustainability claims are supported with data and look for certifications from reputable groups like EarthCheck, Responsible Tourism Institute and Blue Flag (for beaches), among others."

Be mindful of overtourism

The world's most popular attractions are tourist hot spots for good reason – but too many visitors flocking to the same spot at the same time can strain fragile cultural sites and create an unpleasant experience for locals and travelers alike.

"Many popular destinations are also putting caps on the number of visitors, including Venice , Bora Bora and several U.S. national parks ," Von Tersch says. "While this may require an extra layer of planning for travelers, it's an important step in preventing overtourism to make sure these beloved places stick around for years to come."

You can also help prevent the negative effects of overtourism. Choosing unique destinations that aren't heavily trafficked can be a good option, but if iconic attractions like the Taj Mahal or the Colosseum are next on your bucket list, consider visiting outside of the peak season – or at least at off-peak times during the day.

If you have your sights set on visiting awe-inspiring natural wonders , such as the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, it's important to be prepared so you can avoid doing anything that will harm the environment. Even something small – such as wearing sunscreen that isn't reef safe on a snorkeling excursion – can damage an imperiled landscape.

Look close to home

Far-flung destinations may seem glamorous, but the truth is that travelers don't have to go far to find incredible experiences.

"Focus on local travel and exploring the areas domestically – whether it is in your state, county or region," says David Perkins, assistant professor of geography and sustainable tourism at Missouri State University. "There are so many things to explore just in our own backyards if one simply looks. This will enhance connections within your own community, increasing social sustainability all while satisfying desires to explore."

With so much potential for adventures near home, you can enjoy all the wonders of traveling while saving on transportation costs and decreasing your ecological footprint.

Vacation rankings: Explore top vacations by region and state

Solar panels on the Green Tour at The Brando

Courtesy of The Brando

Another critical component of your trip is where you'll lay your head at night. Depending on your budget and the type of experience you seek, options range from eco-conscious luxury hotel rooms and vacation rentals to communal hostel bunks and campsites.

Choose your hotel or resort carefully

Evaluating various hotel options is an important part of being a sustainably conscious traveler. Hervé Houdré, founder of H2 Sustainability, has a few recommendations for travelers to consider.

"Before booking, check if the hotel has received any environmental certifications or participates in any programs," Houdré recommends. "If not, some of the initiatives a hotel should undertake and communicate are: no single-use plastic (bottles, straws and stirrers), housekeeping linen program, energy-efficient practices, EV car chargers and locally sourced produce on the menus." He also suggests looking for hotels that participate in local not-for-profit environmental and community initiatives.

Hotels and resorts around the globe are finding innovative ways to help protect the environment. At The Brando in French Polynesia , for example, solar power strips made from recycled materials help to power the resort. In addition, the Sea Water Air Conditioning system was developed at The Brando and uses ocean water to help reduce the property's energy consumption needs.

If you're looking for more of a city-oriented escape, ARIA Resort & Casino in Las Vegas receives 90% of its daytime power from a solar array, is focused on going paperless when possible and has an advanced back-of-the-house recycling program. What's more, the property partners with a local food bank to freeze and store unserved food from events and provide it to those in need.

You'll find multiple hotel brands throughout the world focused on sustainability. All of the 1 Hotels properties are LEED certified , and its U.S. locations are 100% carbon neutral. The hotel and resort teams at Aman use the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to create the brand's sustainability strategies, as well as its four pillars: local heritage, local culture, environment protection and social responsibility. Soneva resorts combine luxury with sustainability: The company's foundation invests in initiatives designed to offset direct and indirect carbon emissions, along with other programs focused on a positive environmental impact.

Here are some things to look for when selecting a hotel:

  • A sustainability policy that focuses on energy, waste and water processes, and may include certifications and accreditations such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) ratings, EarthCheck and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council
  • Commitment to the environment with eco-friendly initiatives like an on-site garden, beehives, or energy- and water-conserving technologies
  • Local involvement to empower members of the community through hiring local staff, promoting tours that support regional culture, and using local suppliers for its food and beverage programs

Read: The Top Ecolodges Around the World

Consider other accommodation options

Short-term rentals and homestays: With Airbnb, Homestay.com and other online marketplaces, short-term rentals and homestays have become a popular option for travelers who want a unique experience – or simply a nice place to stay without the high price tag of a hotel room. Home sharing has certain environmental benefits too: According to Airbnb, its listings waste less and consume less water and energy compared to traditional hotel accommodations.

Renting from a local host can give you a more authentic and eco-friendly experience in your destination, but keep an eye out for hosts offering many units for short-term stays without a host. Unlike home sharing, this practice drives up property values for local residents.

Hostels: Hostels are one of the most budget-friendly and sustainable types of lodging. Because most hostel accommodations are dorm-style rooms with bunk beds and shared facilities, they consume far less water and energy than private hotel rooms. Hostels allow travelers to find centrally located lodging in a city without breaking the bank, which will also cut down on the transportation needed to get to all your must-visit sights. To go a step further, seek out hostels that highlight sustainable practices, such as renewable energy and eco-friendly materials. You can search for hostels on Hostelworld .

If safety is your main concern, especially for women traveling solo , be sure to read hostel reviews from travelers like yourself. Many hostels offer dorm rooms designated only for women, but if you're nervous about sharing a room with strangers, U.S. News senior travel editor Marisa Méndez recommends opting for a smaller room with friends or even a private room in a hostel.

"Is it still more expensive to book a private hostel room? Sure. But it's less than the cost of a hotel and if you're a social human, it's a good way to meet other travelers and get their opinions on things," she says. "I think hostels are worth it and I felt so much more comfortable sharing one room with everyone I knew. It alleviated some of the stress of being in a place with strangers."

Campgrounds: Camping is an ideal option for a sustainable vacation. As you immerse yourself in nature and enjoy some outdoor adventure, you'll be using far less water and energy than you would in hotels or vacation rentals. If the more rustic side of camping isn't your thing, glamping resorts offer a more luxurious experience that can still minimize your carbon footprint. You can even find camping and glamping sites that actively promote sustainability with initiatives such as renewable energy, recycling facilities and rainwater collection.

For more information on how to be an eco-conscious camper, check out the section on adventure travel .

sustainable travel methods

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

A person placing Paravel packing cubes into a Paravel suitcase

Courtesy of Paravel

Invest in eco-friendly luggage and sustainable products

Whether you're packing a weekender bag , carry-on suitcase or checked luggage , try to bring only what you need. Consider luggage constructed with sustainable materials, such as the CALPAK Terra Collection and the Paravel Aviator Carry-On , which are both made out of recycled plastic bottles and other materials.

To reduce waste, pack a reusable water bottle in your carry-on bag, such as the insulated Tree Tribe stainless steel water bottle with a leakproof lid (bonus: a tree is planted for every bottle purchased). You can also invest in a foldable shopper tote like the Standard Baggu for a picnic lunch or market finds, a Zoku reusable straw and a TSA-compliant BergHOFF Travel Flatware set .

Looking and feeling your best is always the goal, but travel-size single-use plastics aren't good for the environment. However, you can minimize your impact with eco-friendly health and beauty products. Begin with a TSA-friendly reusable Stasher silicone quart-sized bag if you're planning to fly with any liquids.

To reduce water, waste and packaging, consider solid versions of shampoo from brands like HiBAR , along with hair conditioner , facial cleanser and moisturizer bars from Ethique . For a sustainable smile, consider Bite toothpaste and mouthwash . If you're heading to the beach, a reef-safe sunscreen like the All Good sunscreen butter is key to protect both your skin and the ocean. In addition to conserving water, the solid versions of health and beauty items also help to save space in your 3-1-1 liquids bag.

For clothing, consider garments made from organic cotton and other sustainable materials. Clothing that is classic, durable and designed to work for a variety of situations provides more longevity to your travel capsule wardrobe. Méndez recommends sustainable clothing company Pact , where travel staples like leggings, long sleeve tees and dresses with pockets are carbon neutral, fair trade and constructed with organic cotton. "My favorite thing about this company − aside from the quality − is that everything comes in a set of basic colors, not just fun prints," Méndez says. "You can easily make a capsule wardrobe for travel."

Follow these sustainable packing tips:

  • Pack light to help reduce fuel needed for the transportation of you and your baggage.
  • Use TSA-friendly reusable bags and containers for health and beauty items.
  • Bring your own reusable water bottle to reduce waste and stay hydrated. You can add a sticker from each destination as a fun souvenir of your adventures.
  • Use items you already own , like your stainless steel water bottle you take to the office, your gym bag that doubles as a personal item or the suitcase you've owned for years.
  • Ditch the single-use plastic bags and utilize packing cubes to keep travel essentials organized.

Passanger train passing through the British countryside near greater Manchester, England

Choosing your means of transportation is one of the biggest determinants of the carbon footprint your travel will leave. Slower means of travel – such as by train instead of plane, or bike instead of car – are often more sustainable and can provide a richer travel experience, but your selection will depend on the options available and how much time you have to spare.

It's no secret that plane travel contributes significantly to carbon emissions. "Air travel today is inherently carbon intensive – fossil fuels account for 99.9% of aviation energy use, and choosing to board a plane is the single most emitting decision many of us will make in our lives," says Dan Rutherford, program director of marine and aviation at the International Council on Clean Transportation.

That doesn't mean eco-conscious travelers can never again travel by air, but you should be aware of the consequences of frequent plane travel and take steps to minimize your impact. "I recommend that travelers learn to fly like 'A NERD,' with the acronym referring to: A voiding unnecessary trips, flying on N ew aircraft, in E conomy class, on a R egular-sized plane, and whenever possible choosing a D irect flight," Rutherford says.

Many flight booking sites, including Google Flights and Kayak, show you the expected carbon emissions from different options, which allows you to choose flights that emit less, Rutherford says. Etti, of Intrepid Travel, recommends choosing airlines that are committed to using sustainable aviation fuels when possible – and even taking small steps like minimizing your luggage weight, which can have an impact on emissions.

Traveling by train rather than plane helps reduce harmful carbon emissions. That's why in 2022 France banned short-haul domestic flights that can be replaced by a bus or train ride of less than 2.5 hours. Taking an Amtrak train is 34% more energy efficient than flying domestically and 46% more energy efficient than car travel, according to the U.S. Department of Energy Data Book. A study by the European Environment Agency found that apart from walking or cycling, rail transportation is the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

Think about it this way: A traveler can conserve close to the same amount of carbon dioxide as not running your washing machine for a year, just by choosing to take a train from London to Edinburgh rather than a plane, according to Trainline, a European train booking app. Rail travel also provides a prime opportunity to see the scenery on your route, along with the option to create a multistop itinerary to explore local cultures.

Investing in an electric vehicle is a great way to reduce carbon emissions in your daily life and for travel by road, if you're able to make the switch. But EVs are not the only way to make car travel a little more sustainable: Another option is to look into carpooling websites such as BlaBlaCar or CarpoolWorld , which allow you to share a ride on long car trips. After all, more passengers means a lower carbon footprint for each individual.

Other ways you can reduce the environmental impact of your road trip a little include packing light, using cruise control on the highway to maximize your fuel, planning the most efficient route and not letting your car idle when you stop.

Boat travel can be more sustainable than flying – climate activist Greta Thunberg, for example, takes boat trips whenever possible to travel overseas. This form of transportation also takes much longer. But if you're hoping to cut down on your carbon footprint by setting sail, keep in mind that not all boats are created equal.

While a sailing boat or a vessel powered in part by wind is a greener form of transportation than a plane, staying on a luxury cruise ship can produce around double the carbon emissions of a flight and hotel stay, according to the ICCT. New technology continues to make cruise ships greener and more efficient, so if your heart is set on a cruise, do your research to see which major cruise lines are publicly committed to sailing sustainably. Newer cruise ships are also a better bet than old vessels, as the majority are now designed with at least some sustainability measures in mind.

Read: Sustainable Cruising: Cruise Lines Making Progress

Getting around your destination

Upon arrival at your final destination, the most eco-friendly ways to explore are by foot or bike.

"These options offer win/win/win solutions by providing low/no cost transport, health and wellness benefits to the walk(er)/rider, and no emissions and traffic for the community or place of exploration," Lyons explains. When you walk or bike, you get to truly experience the community while helping the planet.

Public transportation is another good option for getting from place to place in a city that will be especially convenient if you plan to stay near a metro station or a bus stop. Investigate the city's public transit options in advance so you can find the most efficient routes.

"Not only does traveling on public transport let you swap chuckles with your neighbors in their territory, but it also cuts pollution and carbon emissions," Etti says. "Zip around on a tuk-tuk in Southeast Asia, climb into the mountains on India's famous toy train, hire a bike or walk when it's convenient."

A tent with lights under a full sky of stars

Plan an outdoor adventure

One way to explore sustainable travel is to enjoy the great outdoors at a national or state park close to you. Hiking, camping and backpacking are a few eco-friendly activities that allow you to connect in and with nature. When participating in any outdoor activity, however, there are a few things to remember in order to best protect the environment.

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a concept designed to put conservation and preservation into practice when it comes to outdoor recreation. Though there are seven principles to LNT, it boils down to one big takeaway: Respect the environment. This means properly disposing of all waste, leaving flora and fauna alone, minimizing campfire impacts, and sticking to trails and designated sites.

To help ensure LNT success, consider purchasing the following products for your next outdoor adventure:

  • A camping stove: A stove is essential for minimizing fire impact while still enjoying delicious camping meals. There are a plethora of quality camp stoves on the market, such as Camp Chef stoves . And if you're backpacking, consider a lightweight Jetboil stove system.
  • Binoculars: With wild animals, it's important to remember that you can be just as damaging and dangerous to them and their environment as they can be to you. It may be tempting to approach wildlife for a closer look, which is why binoculars are the perfect tool for safe viewing from afar. These top-rated Adasion binoculars are waterproof and include a phone adapter for taking photos.
  • A sketchbook or camera: Instead of picking a flower or taking a unique rock home, consider drawing or taking a picture of it instead. A small sketchbook, such as this one on Amazon , is perfect for travel. A sketchbook made of recycled paper is an even more sustainable choice.
  • Biodegradable soap and lotion: You can't go wrong with the Mrs. Meyer's brand when it comes to biodegradable soap and lotion. (Even with biodegradable products, however, it's still important to wash at least 200 feet away from all natural water sources to minimize impact.)

Remember to thoroughly research the outdoor area you'll be exploring or activity you'll be participating in before you begin your adventure to ensure you're safe, prepared and well equipped to leave no trace.

Read: The Best Camping in Colorado

Research attractions in advance

Museums : When it comes to attractions like museums and historical centers, check to see if the property is LEED certified – such as The Exploratorium (a top recommendation for San Francisco ) and The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. LEED certification means the building is designed and constructed to promote sustainability, improve efficiency, lower carbon emissions and more.

Zoos: Some attractions clearly call sustainability into question – zoos and animal-centered activities , for example. Amanda Norcross , content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News, recommends looking for accredited institutions that are dedicated to animal welfare, education and conservation efforts. "You can often find this information in an attraction's mission statement or by researching the programs and experiences they offer," Norcross says. "Be wary of any attraction that promotes animals as a form of entertainment." Examples include riding and holding animals as well as animal shows.

Read: The Top Zoos in the U.S.

Theme and water parks: It can be difficult to find a sustainable theme or water park, but more and more parks are striving to go green. Disney is making large strides toward a sustainable future: One small example is the company composting organic waste from Walt Disney World and using the soil to fertilize on-site plants. Six Flags uses sustainable packaging such as compostable containers, plates and cutlery; two of its parks (Six Flags Great Adventure and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom) use solar panels.

Book with reputable tour providers

Tours are a wonderful way to experience a destination, but it's important to find a licensed and ethical operator that prioritizes sustainability measures such as responsible waste disposal and employs local staff.

"Look for tour providers that explain on their websites what they're doing to preserve the environment," says Méndez, who is a tours expert at U.S. News. "This is particularly important if you're trying to find a tour in a fragile ecosystem like the swamps of New Orleans or the waters of Maui or Cancún ."

If you're not sure where to start, consider a walking or biking tour to minimize environmental impact.

Read: The Best New Orleans Walking Tours

"Save water" sign on a hotel towel bar to encourage reuse of bath towels

Watch out for greenwashing

As you begin to research for your next trip, be careful of "greenwashing," which is a tactic companies may use to trick you into thinking their experiences or products are environmentally friendly – without any real proof to back up those claims.

"Misleading labels abound when referencing tourism, sustainability and 'green impact,' " Perkins warns. "The best way to assess whether a company is engaging in greenwashing tactics is to educate yourself on sustainability and take a few extra minutes to see if a company is actually adhering to sustainable principles."

That may be easier said than done, but there are things you can look for to see if a company is truly committed to sustainability. First and foremost, transparency is key. If a company touts a third-party certification it has received without actually detailing the nature of that certification, you should be wary of its legitimacy, Etti says.

Companies may use buzzwords and make eye-catching claims to win you over but if the information they give is vague or difficult to corroborate, chances are there's some greenwashing going on, Etti adds. Seek out businesses that actually prioritize sustainability so you can feel good about where your money is going.

Your travel choices can change the industry

There's no denying that the travel industry has a long way to go to become truly sustainable. "As travelers begin to demand less-polluting options, and reward better carriers with their business, that will change," Rutherford explains. "The aviation industry is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Government policy will lead but green travelers voting with their dollars will be important, too."

With every choice you make, from your intended destination to accommodations to transportation, you have the chance to make a difference. For the sake of the planet, you won't want to waste it.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood is a senior travel editor with a passion for nature and wildlife, especially whales and sea otters. She chooses train travel whenever she can, and seeks to visit environmentally conscious destinations and attractions. For this article, Hood used her personal experience along with research expertise.

Catriona Kendall , an associate editor, cares deeply about finding ways to make awe-inspiring travel experiences more sustainable and affordable. She'll always pick a long train or bus journey over a short flight. Kendall has stayed in more than 20 hostels around the world and navigated the public transportation options in countless cities. Her own travel experiences as well as advice from experts helped her write this article.

Leilani Osmundson , a digital producer, makes sustainability a focus in her life, from utilizing solar energy and a composter at home to shopping for many of her clothes at thrift stores. Being green extends to her favorite activities as well: backpacking, camping and hiking in the great outdoors. To write this piece, Osmundson used her own experience with adventure travel and sustainable activities along with research.

You might also be interested in:

  • Print and Pack: The Ultimate Camping Checklist
  • The Top Camping Tents
  • The Top Fanny Packs
  • The Top Aquariums
  • The Top Wellness Retreats in the U.S.

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

A train enters Morant's Curve in the Canadian Rockies

Tags: Travel , Travel Tips , Vacation Ideas , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Alaska cruise cost.

Gwen Pratesi March 15, 2024

sustainable travel methods

Spooky Charleston Ghost Tours

Holly Johnson March 15, 2024

sustainable travel methods

The Best Beach Wagons

Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross March 13, 2024

sustainable travel methods

Best New Orleans Cemetery Tours

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson March 13, 2024

sustainable travel methods

The Best Whale Watching Tours in Maui

Lyn Mettler March 11, 2024

sustainable travel methods

The Best Luggage Sets

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood and Amanda Norcross March 11, 2024

sustainable travel methods

19 Best Ireland Tours

John Rodwan March 8, 2024

sustainable travel methods

The Top Family Resorts in the Bahamas

Sharael Kolberg March 8, 2024

sustainable travel methods

The Top Everglades Airboat & Swamp Tours

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson March 7, 2024

sustainable travel methods

Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Gwen Pratesi March 7, 2024

sustainable travel methods

THE A TO Z GUIDE TO TRAVELING SUSTAINABLY

Hacks, apps, and switches to make your escapades more enriching, enlightening, and economical.

An illustration in yellow, green, and red of a bucolic setting with trees, flowers, a river, and homes.

Every decision we make is essentially us, positioned at a crossroads, choosing which way to turn. But when it comes to weighing up what’s best for the planet when we travel, it’s hard to analyze every single move—we’d never get anywhere.

Gallivanting greener is about escaping and celebrating in a way that sees our trips unlock positive results instead of casting negative shadows. We can't always do everything perfectly, but by spending a few more seconds weighing up the trade-offs and approaching travel a little differently, collectively, we can be the change.

Here, we've plotted out the perks of more responsible wanderings so you can get from A to B spewing fewer emissions, staying with big-hearted hosts, and leaving cash in the hands of those who deserve it most. If you love to travel and want to do it more sustainably, consider these tips as your signposts to lower-carbon shortcuts and eco-responsible diversions.

Illustrated letter A

ASK ABOUT ACCREDITATIONS

We’d love a single, reliable, universal seal of sustainability to help guide our travel choices, but in the absence of that, there are some credible eco-friendly seals to consider like EarthCheck, B Corp, Green Globe, and Green Key that are all shorthand-of-sorts to indicate a company is consuming mindfully, reducing energy use and emissions, and cares about how its people are treated. We recommend speaking to the staff at businesses you engage with on what makes it qualify for these seals—you’ll soon sense whether the badges represent real impact.

Illustrated letter B against a cityscape and people riding bicycles

BORROW A BICYCLE

Bikes are a great way to explore new places—and several destinations are following the lead of cyclable cities like Amsterdam and Montreal. When Bogotà traded its traffic congestion for ciclovia, a cycling superhighway that spans over 350 miles, it set new benchmarks. Bogotanos also celebrate car-free Sunday mornings, during which bikers, runners, and roller-bladers hit its streets. Mexico City’s much-improved bike share is worth a salute, too, but it’s the Dutch city of Utrecht that ranked first in the recent Global Bicycle Cities Index . Whether you’re traveling to Bermuda or Botswana, the Bikemap app is a great resource for planning your route. Similarly, Bike Citizens serves up real-time, optimized maps and routes in hundreds of cities across the States, Europe, and Australia.

Illustrated letter C

CUT THAT CARBON

Offsetting your carbon—paying to compensate for your emissions by supporting projects that reduce or remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere—is better than not offsetting, and companies like Ecologi and Sustainable Travel International will help you select projects with the greatest impact from reforestation and biodiversity-boosting interventions. Even better, prioritize reducing your carbon and setting a carbon budget for yourself with the help of apps like Giki Earth , Carbon Footprint , or Capture .

Illustrated letter D

DITCH DISPOSABILITY

It’s a tale as old as time that we should carry reusable coffee cups and refillable water bottles , but often we default to throwaway this, and single-use that when on the road. Not everyone wants to carry bamboo cutlery sets on an adventure-filled city break, but maybe avoid buying bottled water as one golden rule. Tap water is drinkable in more places than we realize—and when it isn’t, a Water-to-Go -type filtration bottle removes 99 percent of microbiological contaminants and makes practically all water potable.

Illustrated letter E

EXPLORE ECO-HOTEL COLLECTIONS

Bookmark the best eco-friendly and energy-efficient properties by seeking out experts who know how to sort the wheat from the chaff. You can trust the authority (and taste) of environmentally focused hospitality portfolios like Regenerative Travel , Small Luxury Hotels’ Considerate Collection , and Beyond Green to help you find the right lodges and camps—and remember to rate where you stay through Tripdoodler to help map out a more sustainable landscape for others.

Illustrated letter F

The taking off and landing parts on a flight can be when the most fuel is burned, so try to fly direct when you can. You can also use Skyscanner’s Greener Choices tool that annotates flights lower in emissions. Better still, go flight-free if the route allows: take a train or hop on a bus for short connections, especially when you’ve done the long-haul part and have almost reached your final destination. We love the Swedes for their term tågskryt meaning train bragging as a positive spin on flygskam , or flight shame. Omio is a helpful rail travel planner active in 37 countries; Rail Planner is best for Europe; and we’re loving Trainline’s Carbon Calculator .

Illustrated letter G against a glamping scene in the outdoors

GET GLAMPING

Go off-grid and blend glamor with outdoor living. We’re talking a-cut-above camping, low-impact lodges with a light touch on the environment like chic canvas abodes, quirky treehouses, or Instagram-perfect pimped-up caravans, which let you sleep (almost) under the stars and closer to nature—the luxury of this is it lets you access the wildest, most remote locations. Ecobnb and Canopy & Stars in the U.K. are great places to start looking; for upscale adventures, check out World of Glamping .

Illustrated letter H

HANG ’EM UP AND HANG ONTO THEM LONGER

We’re talking towels and bed linens. Water conservation is a global priority, and one of the reasons why being a housekeeping hero matters. According to Professor Willy Legrand at IU International University of Applied Sciences, washing and drying can account for “20 percent of a hotel’s energy use and 15 percent of their water consumption,” so lowering the weight of laundry in hospitality directly reduces water and energy use. Also, sparing the waterways of all those chemicals enhances the halo of these seemingly small but seriously important actions.

Illustrated letter I

IMPACT COMMUNITIES WITH YOUR ITINERARIES

Add social enterprises and charity-supporting shops and cafés to your travel plans. If you’re using an agent, insist they prioritize these purpose-led stops for you. I love stopping by for a tea at Fair Shot in London’s Covent Garden that supports education and employment for young adults with learning disabilities, as well as the great food that’s cooked and served by prisoners in training at The Clink at London’s HMP Brixton. And when in Venice, I always treat myself to pastries from Pasticceria Giotto , an award-winning bakery that sits inside the prison of Padua.

Illustrated letter J against a beach clean-up scene

Take part in community-driven events that are eco-friendly, be it beach clean-ups, craft sessions, or citizen science projects. Participate rather than consume: seek authentic experiences that aren’t extractive or voyeuristic such as through Much Better Adventures . Or get on board with gamified crowdsourcing for academic research with apps like iNaturalist that involve you in critical data capturing for biodiversity, and eBird , which offers tools that ensure every (amateur) bird sighting matters.

Illustrated letter K

KEEP UP WITH KINDRED SPIRITS

Navigating the greenwash and getting tips you can trust—from individuals and influencers with integrity—is a great use of social media. Folks that I love having on my Instagram feed include straight-talking Shivya Nath of the responsible-travel blog the Shooting Star , Uncornered Market ’s Daniel Noll and Audrey Scott, JoAnna Haugen ’s community-led travel solutions, Vivienne Dovi, who encourages ethical solo travel with Melanin Travel , intrepid solo female traveler Alex Reynolds , and lighter-living influencer Nina Karnikowski .

Illustrated letter L against a market scene with stalls and plants

LEAVE MONEY IN LOCAL POCKETS

Show love to locally run and locally owned businesses, especially in economies that rely on tourism revenue. Stop at family-owned stores and food stalls, and buy artisanal crafts straight from makers. Book community-driven half-day, full-day, or multi-day tours in 163 countries through ToursByLocals , from a deep dive for coffee lovers in Addis Ababa to taking part in reforestation at an orangutan sanctuary in Borneo.

Illustrated letter M

MINIMIZE DIGITAL CLUTTER

Pack less, carry less, use less—but here’s one you may be neglecting: digital decluttering. Electronic ephemera might trick you into thinking there’s no physical footprint, but data is saved on a cloud powered by energy- and water-dependent data centers. Zap anything redundant that’s taking up space on the cloud from that out-of-focus sunset to those dozens of videos of the same scene. Instead of printing travel passes, use e-tickets and then delete them. Save quality over quantity, and be more in the moment—take in more with your eyes than an iPhone for more meaningful, lower-impact memories.

Illustrated letter N in a natural setting with birds and trees and a hiker

NUZZLE UP TO NATURE

Spending time outdoors is a great reminder that we are not only connected to nature, we are part of it. As fans of forest bathing can attest, it’s good for us, too. Neuroscience says being near greenery soothes the vagus nerve—vagus means wanderer in Latin—which sends good vibes to our vital organs, calming our breathing, digestion, and heart rate. Finally, show nature the ultimate respect by helping fund its preservation. Visit national parks safeguarding green spaces—more than half of the world’s countries have them.

Illustrated letter O

OPT FOR OFF-SEASON TRAVEL

Perks abound with off-peak orbiting : cheaper rates and fewer people, yes, but you’re also not contributing to overtourism. Redistributed travel is the art of visiting under-the-radar or low-season places, and to visit somewhere in a way that is more of a help than a burden. Low Season Traveller , which highlights destinations during their low seasons, and shows you how much better the experience can often be, is a helpful resource for plotting your escapes.

Illustrated letter P to denote public transportation such as trams

PLAN AROUND PUBLIC TRANSPORT

It’s often quicker and cheaper, and subways and buses can be a more memorable way to engage with a new place and its people instead of driving or taking a taxi (and you minimize the amount of fuel used just for you). Tap up the Citymapper app to traverse several destinations like a local.

Illustrated letter Q

QUESTION AND QUERY

There is no better way of advancing awareness than being constantly curious and engaging with businesses—and each other—on challenging questions. In fact, this is vital in tackling the spread of greenwashing. Ask agents if a hotel is locally owned! Ask hosts how they measure their carbon footprint! Ask restaurants if they compost food waste!

Illustrated letter R

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE, REFUSE

There are so many Rs to embrace in the mission to be more sustainable. You know the deal: use less, buy less, waste less, invest in long-lasting products—but we especially like R for Refuse. Slow down the turnover and swerve all that’s offered to you that could end up in a landfill. We’re looking at you, single-use slippers and small plastic bottles in the bathroom.

Illustrated letter S on a jungle-themed background

SLOW DOWN, STAY LONGER

Think quality over quantity when it comes to your roaming, and, if you can, spend more time in each place. If you have flexibility, extend trips to try to combine work commitments with vacation time. Instead of multiple city breaks, trade one for a staycation, and invest in a local guide who'll enhance your knowledge of what’s at your own doorstep. Scour Urban Adventures from Intrepid and Airbnb’s Experiences for fun ideas.

Illustrated letter T

TURN THAT DIAL

Tweak the thermostat to use less electricity. Better still, shut it all down and open a window or throw on a sweater. If we all adjusted temperature settings instead of insisting on too-cold air con or tropically warm-in-winter indoor climates, we’d be doing our bit to tackle what currently contributes enormously to global warming. And, of course, flick all the lights and electronic goods to standby when you leave the room. Collectively, these tweaks make a measurable difference.

Illustrated letter U

UNDERSTAND OWNERSHIP

We’ve already celebrated buying local. This is about following the money all the way. In the absence of a means-tested "these guys deserve your dollars" badge representing ownership, choose companies run by identifiable individuals who are vocal custodians for their communities. Favor roadside stalls or social cooperatives, where your cash goes straight to producers or workers.

Illustrated letter V

VENTURE INTO VEGETARIANISM

We’re not saying go vegan, but perhaps dabble in some climavorism and eschew meat for vegetarian-heavy meals, especially in destinations that are dynamos at making all they’ve grown delicious. It’s easier to digest, too, when you’re roaming far from home. Reducing meat, dairy, and animal products in our diets drastically slashes global-warming gasses and saves land from dramatic deforestation as emphasized by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change .

Illustrated letter W set in a park with people walking through a path

WALK WHEREVER, WHENEVER YOU CAN

Cities are upping their walkability with pedestrian-friendly routes, and sustainability-minded urban planners are introducing more green spaces in some of our favorite destinations. Walking is often quicker than public transport—once you've added going down into the subway, waiting for a train, making connections, and going back up into the street—and it’s a great way to both see the city and get your steps in for the day.

Illustrated letter X

EXERCISE XENOPHILY

We all benefit from being reminded of the power of connecting with people, cultures, and perspectives different to our own. Engaging with diverse world views and cultures is one of the most rewarding aspects of travel—we love when treating those we meet like a potential new friend has us learning more, enjoying better service, and appreciating wider perspectives. As Mark Twain once said: “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness .”

Illustrated letter Y

YELL ABOUT THE GOOD GUYS

Celebrate all the sustainability and social-impact heroes you meet along the way: tweet, Instagram, and TikTok your praise when you see businesses doing an amazing job when it comes to everything from green energy to ensuring excellent accessibility. The louder we are in supporting services and hosts that invite people of all ages, sexualities, and abilities to have the fullest experiences, the more we’ll inspire others to follow their lead.

Illustrated letter Z

LOOK BEYOND ZOOS

Instead of visiting animals in captivity, favor official wildlife conservation and rehabilitation projects. Instead of experiencing animals in zoos, enjoy them in their natural habitat. On Hilton Head Island's beaches in South Carolina, for instance, guests can see loggerhead turtles hatch between May and October and spy wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins frolicking in its coastal waters, which is much nicer than seeing them in captivity at a dolphinarium. And when you’re out in the field, do skip the selfies with wild animals—enjoy them from a distance, instead.

Watch For More Sustainability Travel Tips

  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

The Mindful Traveller

The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Sustainable Travel Guide: What, Why & How

17 March 2022 · In: Sustainable Travel

sustainable travel guide

Here is a  complete guide to sustainable travel  – an incredible way to explore the world whilst positively impacting people and our planet! 

How to explore with less harm and more positivity?

Sustainable travel may be a term you have heard before, but you still wonder what it truly means. In this article, I go into more depth into the meaning of sustainable travel, why it matters, and some tips to help you travel differently. 

Don’t forget to download your free sustainable travel checklist! ↓

sustainable travel methods

10- Prioritise slow travel = travel less, stay longer

What does sustainable travel mean.

Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

It could be by adopting more sustainable methods of transportation, staying in more environmentally friendly accommodations, eating local and seasonal foods, and avoiding harmful activities.

sustainable travel guide

What is the goal of sustainable travel?

The goal of sustainable travel is to reduce the impact of tourism on the environment and local communities. It means avoiding over-consumption, contributing to the conservation of the environment and respecting local traditions and heritage to participate in their protection.

Ultimately, the primary goal of sustainable travel is to create a better and more viable long-term future for tourism, aiming for a beneficial ‘give and take’ relationship.

sustainable travel methods

Why is sustainable travel important?

Sustainable travel is important as tourism growth has had negative impacts on many places – including the destruction of lands and wildlife, deterioration of historical sites, pollution, littering, price inflation and loss of authenticity. Despite this, tourism remains an incredible way to experience the world and its beauty, share and connect with others, and generate economic benefits for a local area – and these positive effects should be the priority.

Today, tourism, a $9 trillion industry, continues to grow. That is why understanding its impact is vital to ensure a viable expansion, and current habits must change. Creating safe and responsible travel to protect our planet and communities will become crucial over time.

sustainable travel guide

How to be a sustainable traveller?

You can travel sustainably by being mindful of the consequences of your journey. Responsible travel is about adjusting your habits and behaviours and paying attention to your surroundings. 

For example, ask yourself: what is the impact of my flight? Does my hotel care about the environment? Does my tour operator support local communities? 

When you travel, always consider your impact first.

Although adopting a greener way of travelling is a beautiful opportunity to slow down and be responsible, it is not magic and does not happen overnight. But step by step altogether, we can make a difference and create a better future for our planet – whilst enjoying it!

Here are some sustainable travel tips to make your next adventure greener:

1- Consider the most sustainable method of transport

How to get to your destination without harming our planet?

That is a question I have asked myself a lot, considering how much I travel by plane. Whilst doing some research, I discovered (without surprise) that transportation pollution is a significant issue caused by tourism. Air pollution has steadily increased with the number of tourists travelling by planes each year, severely affecting local air quality and contributing to climate change.

That is why, when booking your trip, try to choose the greenest form of transport possible. 

  • If you use a plane, take direct flights as much as possible to reduce your carbon footprint, as landing and take-off have the worst effect. You can also choose greener flights with Skyscanner . It has an option that only displays flights with lower CO2 emissions.
  • Take the train when you can, as it is one of the transports that emits the lowest levels of pollutants. It is also a beautiful way to slow travel and take time to enjoy the scenery.
  • Avoid cruises . Using boats may sound like a good idea, but they have proven to be the most pollutant for our environment. According to a 2017 study , even the most efficient cruise ships emit more carbon dioxide per passenger per kilometre than commercial flights. However, a cruise is another great way to slow travel, so what do you do if you care about the environment but are not ready to abandon cruises? Look carefully at the company website, consider a smaller ship, reduce your single-use plastic consumption and be mindful of your energy and water usage.
  • If using the car, try carpooling like Blablacar (the more passengers, the lower the carbon footprint). If you decide to rent a car, go for an electric or at least the smallest vehicle that suits your needs.
  • Finally, whatever your choice, use EcoPassenger to calculate the environmental impact of your journey. It will allow you to become aware of your effect and offset your carbon footprint when you get home.

The method of transport you choose to reach your destination will play a crucial role in your overall holiday footprint. However, it is equally important to be eco-conscious once you are there. Here are some other tips to help you reduce your impact: walk as much as possible, use a bike, take public transport, rent an electric or hybrid car or use small-group tour operators.

2- Book eco-friendly accommodations

Once you have booked your vacation, try to reserve a hotel or B&B that adopts eco-responsible practices. Many accommodations are working toward becoming greener by innovating and reducing their impact.

What is an eco-conscious accommodation?

Eco-conscious accommodations or sustainable hotels significantly reduce their environmental impact through green practices in maintenance, services, logistics, products, and supplies. The core elements revolve around reducing waste, saving energy, and decreasing water usage.

How to know if a hotel or guesthouse is eco-friendly?

Doing your research is essential. Go further greenwashing and find a responsible retreat that helps you explore your destination whilst leaving a positive impact.

Here are some guidelines to determine if a hotel or guesthouse is sustainable and using green practices:

  • It has a sustainability policy : a hotel committed to sustainability will almost always have a sustainability policy on its website.
  • It is committed to limiting its environmental impact : beyond the implementation of energy and water-conserving technologies, initiatives to look out for include an on-site garden that supplies the hotel restaurant, rooftop beehives, single-use plastic-free amenities, locally made furnishings, recycling bins in guest rooms, the use of eco-friendly cleaning products, and washing linens only on request.
  • It works closely with the local community : sustainable hotels empower local communities by hiring local staff, using local suppliers, supporting sustainable community programs and integrating guests with the local community.
  • It encourages guests to get involved : a sustainable hotel will inspire guests to follow their lead by incorporating interactive initiatives, such as offering reusable water bottles, free or cheap bicycle rental or shared transport options, and guest experiences that support local people and businesses.

To help you further, whether you are looking for a hotel or an Airbnb, you can use EcoBnB  or  BookDifferent to find your green accommodation.

3- Pack your suitcase mindfully

After choosing your destination and booking your trip, what you pack is the next step in reducing your impact. The best way to avoid waste and plastic when travelling is to arrive prepared. That is why considering what you bring with you is so important.

Here are some ideas:

  • Reusable cups or mugs are the perfect way to enjoy your trip whilst having a positive impact, as they reduce the number of single-use plastic cups you need on your journey. Here are some brands offering light and eco-friendly cups and mugs: KeepCup , Circular&Co , and Klean Kanteen .
  • Reusable water bottles are also a great way to cut down on single-use plastic and should become a must-have in your life, even when you are not travelling! Stay hydrated on the go with these incredibly sustainable bottles: Pure Panda , Jococups , and Sweet Bamboo .
  • Whether you like climbing the highest peaks or walking around the city, organic and eco-minded clothes are practical, functional, and a great way to celebrate the adventurer in you. Here are some brands trying to make a difference: United by Blue , Toad&Co , and Coalatree .
  • Travel towels are very helpful for any adventure. A quick-drying, antimicrobial towel made of eco-friendly fibres like the Trespass bamboo towel is a must-have and all-in-one option. It is also very convenient as it folds easily, takes no space, and requires less washing.
  • Having gear charged on your trip is essential to capture your beautiful adventure and come home with memories. However, it can sometimes be trouble when you are on the road, and it also consumes a lot of energy. Here are some portable solar chargers you can easily take everywhere: Goal Zero and Anker PowerPort Solar .
  • Travel tote bags are an excellent substitute for single-use plastic bags and can be very helpful for shopping or the beach! They are practical, functional and easy to take wherever you go. Here is my favourite one: EcoRight .

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Other ideas:

  • Cutlery and containers (reduce single-use plastic)
  • Reusable straws (reduce single-use plastic)
  • Zero-waste sunscreens (protect reefs and marine life)
  • Biodegradable shampoos (reduce toxic chemicals)
  • Solid toiletries (reduce water usage)

Looking to stay warm and dry in winter? Check out these top 10 ethical winter coats .

4- Use eco-conscious tour operators and activities

When travelling, being mindful of the activity you choose and the travel agent you select is very important for helping reduce impact. A sustainable tour operator offers travel products or services complying with high social and environmental standards. They focus on creating benefits for local communities, protecting the environment using conservation projects, and prioritising animal welfare.

It is essential that you do your research before booking an activity or tour. Only get involved in activities that benefit the environment, locals and wildlife. Also, try using local guides and look for authentic experiences to ensure your money goes into the local economy. Most importantly, never take part in activities that do not seem right!

  • Look on the website for their practices and mission.
  • Look for certifications : responsible tour operators are certified by a GSTC accredited certification scheme.
  • Look for information on carbon footprint : responsible tour operators take measures to minimise their environmental impact.
  • Look for animal activities : responsible tour operators do not offer activities or excursions with captive wildlife or animal interaction.
  • Look for statements on local benefits : responsible tour operators benefit local communities with their tourism activities and are proud of it.
  • Look for collaborations with local research and conservation projects : responsible tour operators prioritise animal welfare and environmental protection.
  • Look at their group sizes : responsible tour operators will not go on an excursion with large groups but with small groups to create less impact.
  • Look at the offered accommodations : responsible tour operators will not book your rooms in large hotel chains but in local small-scale accommodations.
  • Look for sustainable travel tips : responsible tour operators are all about sharing their knowledge and want you to travel sustainably.

Some of the best sustainable tour operators:

  • Intrepid Travel
  • G Adventures
  • Lokal Travel

Check out this article for more inspiration: Top Ecotourism Activities Around the World .

5- Eat locally and seasonally

When travelling, being mindful of what you eat is crucial to leaving a lower footprint on your destination.

Here are some tips for eating locally and responsibly:

  • Eat vegetarian or vegan.
  • Ask the locals where they like to eat.
  • Buy your food at local markets and shop seasonally.
  • And finally, avoid big resorts and go to local restaurants supporting farmers and sustainable products.

And if you want more, check out  HappyCow .

6- Shop and buy local

The souvenirs we bring home matter as much as how we travel. Being mindful of your shopping habits is another way to become more responsible whilst exploring.

Here are some tips:

Buy local and avoid big chain stores.

Shopping locally means less fuel to move goods and food long distances and less energy to cool warehouses and trucks. It also means more money stays in the local community, enriching neighbours instead of corporations in a far-off city or country. So buy locally made gifts to take home as souvenirs. It is better to take home souvenirs unique to the country where you are travelling, rather than something from a factory elsewhere. Local markets are also a great way to ensure you buy local.

Shop responsibly.

  • Ask questions to find out more about the product and its origin.
  • Go for vegan and decline objects made with animal products.
  • Research eco-friendly boutiques and shop vintage.
  • Reduce the use of packaging and gift wrap.
  • Prioritise sustainable materials or buy second-hand.

Bring reusable shopping bags.

When you bring reusable bags to shop, you adopt a more eco-friendly travel lifestyle with less plastic and waste. Reusable tote bags are lightweight and easily fit in your suitcase, so do not forget to add one to your packing list!

Ask yourself: is it needed?

It can sometimes be challenging to differentiate what you need from what you want. Most of the time, we buy things because of temptation rather than necessity. Therefore, it is essential to ask yourself if you require the product you want to purchase or if the person you are buying it for will use it.

When buying clothes, ask yourself if you really need this item in your closet. Think about how often you will wear it. Always ensure the item will add to your collection and fill a practical niche. Any article that does not meet one of these criteria is not worth the cost to you or the environment.

7- Leave the place better than you found it

Always pick up your trash, or any you come across, avoid plastic at all costs, do not touch everything, be mindful of your water and electricity usage, stay on track when you hike, smile and be grateful to the locals for welcoming you.

Be mindful of cultural sites.

Over-tourism has generated dangerous environmental effects on our sites, and we have, for instance, observed many cases of path erosions over the past few years. Therefore, be mindful and considerate of the places you attend. Learn about them beforehand and respect them whilst visiting.

8- Offset your carbon footprint

Even if you have done your best to lower your footprint, it is still a good idea to offset your carbon emissions from your trip. BUT do not use carbon offset as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like prioritising other methods of transport, avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase to be ready for your green adventure.

What is a carbon offset?

A carbon offset is an act of reducing or removing emissions of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases to compensate for the emissions produced elsewhere. You can offset your carbon footprints by investing in carbon offset projects, locally or internationally, as a way of balancing your impact. For example, you can invest your money in a project in Costa Rica to offset the amount of carbon produced by your flight.

What are carbon offset projects?

Carbon offset projects allow you to invest in environmental or social projects to balance the carbon footprint of your travels. They help fight global climate change and care for local communities. For example, they can provide employment, health improvement, biodiversity, reforestation and broad social benefits to disadvantaged communities.

How to offset carbon?

To do this, visit an offset website, use the online tools to calculate the emissions from your trip, and then pay the offset company to reduce emissions elsewhere in the world by the same amount – making your journey “carbon neutral”.

Here are some companies you can use:

  • Sustainable Travel International
  • Cool Effect

9- Take action = volunteer, donate or share!

Take this opportunity to come back home and feel inspired by your adventure. Now is the best time to take action, whether by volunteering locally or abroad, donating to an organisation or sharing your experience. Speak up and share your sustainable travel experience with your family, friends and followers.

The more we talk about it, the more we will change the world.

Slow travel is a way of exploring the world that accentuates slowing down and connecting with the places and locals. This approach allows you to take more time to get to know a country and its culture on a deeper level, which can also mean travelling less but staying longer = quality over quantity.

Therefore, if you can, try to always stay longer in the destination you are visiting – for at least 3 or 4 days, and avoid day trips as they contribute to overtourism.

Shop the ultimate road trip planner

Create your dream vacation and live unforgettable eco-adventures on the road.

sustainable travel methods

I hope this sustainable travel guide will help make your future trips greener. Remember, always leave your destination better than you found it and educate yourself as much as you can. You got this – one step at a time!

Want to know more?

  • 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
  • Top Ecotourism Activities Around the World
  • 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking
  • Carbon Offset your Flights: What, Why & How
  • 10 Best Zero-Waste & Reef-Safe Sunscreens

sustainable travel guide

  • Share on Twitter Share on Twitter
  • Share on Facebook Share on Facebook
  • Share on Pinterest Share on Pinterest

Do you have any other suggestions for travelling sustainably and reducing impact? Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

You will also love

sustainable travel methods

STAY INSPIRED

Join our community today to receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories that will inspire your next adventures, directly to your inbox. Can't wait to see you inside ♡

Reader Interactions

' src=

28 January 2023 at 10:20

This read is such an eye opener. When we talk about sustainability, sustainable travelling is lesser talked about subject. I didnt know cruise is the most pollutant for of travel. I sometimes wonder, does cruise or boats disturb the marine life. How can we offset our carbon footprint from travel at our home without investing in other ofset companies?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

sustainable travel methods

Helsinki Travel Guide: 10 Best Things to Do

Follow the journey.

The peaceful Lake Obersee, Bavaria 🌿

On the Blog

  • Privacy Policy

Become an insider!

And receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories ♡

Copyright Lucie Charpentier © 2024 · Theme by 17th Avenue

sustainable travel methods

Home » Top 10 Tips for Sustainable Travel

Girl tourist making heart sign with her hands at beautiful tourist destination

Top 10 Tips for Sustainable Travel

Tourism is at a crossroads, facing the challenge of balancing growth with sustainability. Over the past two decades, the number of international tourist arrivals more than doubled, surpassing  1.4 billion  in 2019. While this tourism boom promoted economic growth and personal fulfillment, it often came at the expense of the environment and local communities. As tourism surged, it came hand in hand with gentrification, crowded streets, pollution, and habitat loss.

In recent years, destinations began implementing measures to combat the burdens of unsustainable tourism: Hawaii banned the sale of reef-toxic sunscreens, Dubrovnik limited the number of cruise ships that can dock each day, Palau protected 80% of its waters, and Barcelona cracked down on illegal vacation rentals. While these are certainly steps in the right direction, there’s still much more to be done.

According to research by Booking.com, 76% of travelers say they want to travel more sustainably. While this shifting mindset is a promising sign many travelers don’t know where to begin.

You can be part of the solution by adopting more responsible travel habits and supporting companies that are taking action. In this blog post, we offer guidance on what sustainable travel looks like in practice. By rethinking the way we travel, we can realize a future where tourism protects and respects our planet and its cultures. Read on to discover our top tips for eco-friendly and socially conscious travel.

Free Resource: Download our Sustainable Travel Tips List and keep it handy when planning trips to engage in more responsible travel. 

What is sustainable tourism?

Before we go any further, it’s important to clarify what we mean by sustainable travel.

While people often think of sustainability as minimizing our environmental footprint, it is much broader and all-encompassing than this. Sustainable tourism is all about achieving a balance between economic growth, human well-being, and environmental health. It focuses on reducing tourism’s negative impacts  and on  maximizing its positive benefits  for communities, cultures, ecosystems, and the planet. Sustainable tourism accounts for both the immediate impacts felt today as well as those longer-term impacts that will be experienced by future generations.

Man purchasing sandwiches from a local food truck

You’ve probably seen other buzzwords such as “ecotourism,” “regenerative travel,” “community-based tourism,” “ethical travel,” or “nature-tourism” and wondered how they differ from “sustainable tourism.” Without getting into the nuances of each, these terms tend to be narrower in scope and focus on specific applications or aspects of sustainable tourism. For instance, ecotourism specifically focuses on responsible travel to natural areas, while regenerative travel focuses more on leaving places better than they were before and repairing damage that has already been done.

How to start traveling more sustainably

While it’s one thing to understand what sustainable travel means, it’s another to actually put it into practice. That’s why we’ve rounded up our top ten tips for sustainable travel to help you be a more eco-friendly and socially conscious traveler .  As you read, think about which practices you can adopt when you travel.

1. Get off the beaten path

Prior to the pandemic, many destinations were literally being loved to death as they became victims of their own popularity. Historic cities, beaches, and other tourist hotspots were being overrun by hordes of visitors, a phenomenon that is now known as “overtourism.”

As a traveler, you can help prevent a resurgence of overtourism by skipping tourist traps and getting off the beaten path. While it may be tempting to go to the same bucket list destinations that everyone is Instagramming, it can be even more rewarding to explore less traversed places. The reality is that many tourist hotspots don’t live up to their expectations – you may have to spend hours standing in line, only to discover that the destination doesn’t look the same in person as it did online.

Taj Mahal Expectation vs Reality

Getting off the beaten path allows travelers to have a more unique and authentic experience while avoiding the crowds. This doesn’t mean you have to pitch a tent in the middle of nowhere, but it does require that you do some extra research. Look beyond the “Top 10” destinations and attractions lists, explore Google Maps, or ask locals or other travelers for recommendations. Instead of staying in major tourist centers, visit smaller cities or head to a more rural area. Doing so will reduce the burden on over-visited destinations, while spreading tourism benefits to other local communities. If you travel by cruise, opt for a small ship cruise line. Because these boats carry less passengers and are able to visit smaller ports, they alleviate pressure on common cruise destinations. If you are dying to go to a popular destination, consider scheduling your trip during the off-season. Check out  this website  which helps predict the best times to avoid the crowds.

2. Slow down and stay awhile

It can be easy to get caught up trying to cram as much as possible into a trip. After all, this may be the only time you visit the destination. Though a packed itinerary may seem ideal on paper, you’ll likely spend the majority of your vacation rushing from one place to another. While you may tick off lots of bucket list sights, you’ll miss out on actually getting to know the destination. Not to mention, this fast-paced “hit and run” style of tourism is a surefire recipe for stress.

Do yourself a favor and give yourself more time to explore the destination. Instead of taking multiple shorter trips each year, opt for just one longer vacation. Once you’ve reached your destination, park yourself in one area for a while instead of hopping from one place to the next.

Slowing things down will allow you to really experience the place you are visiting. When you aren’t rushed, you can take time to immerse yourself in the culture, build deeper connections with local people, and get to know the destination’s unique charms. Take a cooking class to taste the local flavors and learn how to make traditional dishes. Spend a day walking or cycling around town and you’ll be sure to discover hidden gems like a quirky local coffeehouse. Meander through a museum and arm yourself with a mountain of fun facts.

Community tourism cooking class with local family

Spending more time in a destination makes for more authentic, memorable, and meaningful travel experiences. At the same time, it reduces pressure on the cities and communities you visit while creating greater benefits for the local businesses you support. An extra bonus: slow travel is also better for the environment since it reduces the amount of carbon emissions generated by flying or driving between destinations.

3. Use efficient modes of transportation

In addition to traveling slow, there are other ways that you can reduce the carbon emissions produced by your trip. Approximately 8% of the world’s carbon emissions are caused by travel and tourism. As such, the travel industry is a significant contributor to climate change, which is one of the  gravest threats  to the future of tourism, people, and the world.

Air travel, driving, and other forms of transportation make up the largest part of  tourism’s carbon footprint.  Though all modes of transportation require energy, some are more efficient and cleaner than others. How you get to/from and around your destination makes a difference.

In general, planes and cars tend to be the least efficient modes of transportation. When vacationing to closer destinations, travel by train or coach to cut your emissions while soaking in the scenery. Once you’re in your destination, consider taking the bus, traveling by rail, or cycling around town instead of renting a car. If you do rent a car, opt for an electric, hybrid, or smaller model.

Train travel in Austria

Keep in mind that there’s no one-size-fits-all guideline for which method of transportation to use since the carbon footprint also depends on the type of energy being used. The most sustainable option will vary from one destination to the next. Trains in the Netherlands are powered by wind energy, Washington D.C. has zero emissions buses, and some of Thailand’s infamous tuk tuks are going electric. Research the different transportation options in the destination you are visiting to make an informed decision.

> Discover more ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

4. Conserve water and energy

Beyond transportation, tourism also relies on energy for heating, lighting, and electricity. This along with intensive water use by tourists can put great strain on local water supplies and energy infrastructure. Tourists often consume significantly more water and energy than local residents and many destinations struggle to keep up with the demand. As global temperatures rise and the population grows, it will exacerbate this problem even further.

When you’re on vacation, do what you can to conserve local water and energy resources. Turn off the lights, TV, and any other electronics when not in use. When leaving your hotel, turn off the AC or set the thermostat a few degrees higher. Take a shower instead of a bath and keep it as short as possible. Handwash your own clothes and hang up the “Do Not Disturb Sign” to prevent unnecessary laundering.

You can also reduce your environmental footprint by staying in a low impact accommodation. This could either be a smaller, more basic accommodation or a higher-end property that utilizes renewable energy and water/energy efficient technologies.

Free Sustainable Travel Tips List

5. Offset your carbon footprint

While you should always do what you can to minimize your energy usage, some carbon emissions will remain unavoidable. You can compensate for these inevitable greenhouse gas emissions through a process known as “ carbon offsetting .”

Carbon offsetting allows you to balance out the carbon footprint of your trip, by reducing emissions somewhere else in the world. All you have to do is  calculate your carbon footprint  using an online carbon calculator, then purchase offsets equivalent to the amount of CO2 you produced. The money from your offset purchase will be invested in  projects  that reduce carbon and other greenhouse gases. For instance, one project may protect a tropical rainforest from being cut down, while another might build a wind farm or convert cow manure into energy. Carbon offset projects can also create benefits that go beyond emissions reductions, such as creating local jobs, improving sanitation, or conserving endangered species.

When offsetting your footprint, just be sure to go through a  reputable provider  to ensure you’re creating the greatest impact.

>  Get started offsetting your carbon footprint. 

6. Keep your dollars local

Many communities are hurting from the lack of tourism over the past year. You can help them bounce back by making sure your dollars stay in the local economy.

The best way to ensure host communities reap the benefits of tourism is by supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs. Consider staying in locally-owned homestays and guesthouses rather than expat-owned hotels or international chains. Dine at local restaurants and savor traditional dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. Get out of your comfort zone and have some fun navigating the local market – buy spices grown by a local farmer or purchase jewelry made by a local artisan. Although haggling is expected in many cultures and okay to do, don’t be stingy and pay a fair price. Book excursions led by local guides or learn a new skill from a local expert by signing up for a weaving workshop or surfing lessons. If you book a packaged tour, choose an operator that prioritizes local suppliers.

Amazon jungle tour with local guide in Ecuador

While it may be tempting to give money to beggars, it’s best to avoid this practice as it often causes more harm than good. At its worst, begging can be a form of human trafficking and travelers’ well-intentioned gifts can perpetuate a system that keeps children out of school and forces them onto the streets. Even if this isn’t the case, giving money to beggars can fuel a dependence on tourist handouts. A better alternative is to make a contribution to a local charity that empowers people through skills development, education, micro-loans, or access to social services. You can help promote the equitable distribution of wealth by patroning businesses that are owned or managed by marginalized groups such as women, indigenous populations, or minorities.

7. Respect local communities

One of the incredible things about travel is that it offers a glimpse into other traditions, beliefs, and ways of life. Seize this opportunity to expand your horizons by embracing the differences and soaking up the local culture.

Begin immersing yourself in other cultures by reading up on the local history, traditions, and etiquette before visiting. Download a language app and learn a few phrases in the local language. Be aware that certain gestures, clothing, or words are considered offensive in some destinations. Be especially mindful when visiting religious or spiritual sites. Only go to sites where tourists are welcome and adhere to any protocols. At some sites, this may mean taking off your shoes, covering your shoulders, keeping your voice down, or not taking photos.

Wherever you go, remember that the destination you are visiting is someone else’s home. Obey the local laws and guidelines, from traffic rules to health and safety precautions. Do your best to leave places like you found them so that future generations of travelers and residents can enjoy them too. A little bit of respect goes a long way – be considerate of local people and treat them with dignity. This includes honoring their privacy and asking permission before you take their photo.

8. Avoid single-use plastics

Every year,  8 million  metric tons of plastic ends up in our oceans. This is equivalent to one garbage truck full of plastic being dumped into the ocean every single minute of every single day. In recent years, a growing number of consumers, companies, and governments started rejecting single-use plastics. But over the past year, single use plastics made a comeback as the pandemic led to an increased reliance on plastic gloves, takeout containers, packing bubbles, and grocery bags. As tourism recovers, many hotels and tour operators are reinstituting disposable plastics as an added hygiene precaution. But many countries lack sufficient waste management infrastructure to keep up with the amount of plastic trash that is produced by tourists and locals. As a result, plastics end up in overflowing landfills or dumped in the environment where they can remain for hundreds of years. With the increased reliance on plastics due to COVID, it’s even more important to cut down your own consumption when you travel.

One of the most common plastic items used by tourists is single-use beverage bottles. Luckily, there’s a simple solution: bring your own reusable water bottle on your trip! If you’re worried about the water quality in the destination you’re visiting, bring a water bottle with a built-in purifier. Refillable toiletry bottles are another eco-friendly item to add to your packing list.

Traveler holding resusable water bottle

Another easy way to reduce plastic waste is by changing your eating habits. When going to a restaurant, dine-in rather than getting takeout which typically comes with plastic bags, containers, cups, and utensils. Hit up the local street food scene, but opt for vendors that dish up their goodies in biodegradable alternatives. Some travelers also choose to bring their own reusable container and utensils. In general, it’s best to eat fresh, local foods or drinks instead of imported ones which tend to use more packaging. Even something as simple as asking the bartender to skip the straw can help trigger larger operational changes.

9. Visit parks and protected areas

National parks, marine sanctuaries, and other protected areas play an important role in protecting our planet’s natural resources and biodiversity. Many countries rely on tourism fees such as entrance fees, operator permits, or bed levies to preserve these special places and animals. Every year, more than  8 billion  people visit the world’s protected areas, generating about $850 billion in spending. These dollars help fund the conservation activities necessary to protect these areas while also providing income to local communities.

Tourists on wildlife safari in Kenya

The pandemic essentially cut off this revenue stream, putting many protected areas and endangered species in jeopardy. Over the past year, there have been an alarming number of reports of increased poaching and illegal deforestation around the world. Rising poverty has only compounded the problem as local communities resort to destructive activities for income and sustenance.

As you’re planning your post-COVID travels, look up the protected areas in your destination and add one to your itinerary. When visiting any natural area, be sure to minimize your impact by acting in a responsible manner. Avoid degrading sensitive environments or disturbing wildlife, comply with all visitor guidelines, and follow the  Leave No Trace Principles . Along with paying any usage fees, be sure to support local communities by booking local accommodations and service providers.

> Learn more about how tourism benefits nature and wildlife. 

10. Choose sustainable accommodations and operators

Our final tip focuses on how you can drive businesses to change their practices and help to mainstream sustainable travel. The best way you can influence the industry is by seeking out businesses that are lessening their environmental impact and contributing to the well-being of local communities.

While many companies have embraced sustainable travel, there are still plenty of businesses that don’t see the value. Let them know that sustainability matters to you by putting your money where your mouth is. Keep in mind that just because a company markets themselves as ‘green’ or ‘sustainable’ doesn’t mean they necessarily are. Look for information about the specific practices and policies that they’ve implemented, and ask questions to show that you’re factoring sustainability into your purchase decisions. What energy and water conservation practices do they have in place? Have they eliminated single-use plastics? How do they promote diversity and inclusion? Do they hire local people for management roles? Do they prioritize local suppliers and producers? Do they promote responsible interactions with wildlife?

If you notice other practices that the business could adopt, be sure to share your feedback. You can also write online reviews or share your experience  in our  Travel Better Facebook Group  to help other travelers identify sustainable businesses.

We hope you enjoyed these tips and are feeling inspired for your next trip!  Click here to sign our Travel Better Pledge and join the sustainable travel movement.

  • March 9, 2021
  • Blog , Climate Change , Nature & Wildlife , People & Culture , Sustainable Travel , Waste & Pollution

Recent Posts

Biochar carbon removal training in thailand, what is biochar and how is it a tool for sustainable tourism, kudos carbon offsetting feature demo, kudos travel technology partners with sustainable travel international to implement its climate impact apis to scale carbon mitigation efforts, webinar recording – cleaning our skies: innovative solutions that are removing carbon from the air, sustainable travel international expands climate impact portfolio to include innovative technologies.

  • January 2024
  • December 2023
  • November 2023
  • October 2023
  • September 2023
  • August 2023
  • January 2023
  • November 2022
  • October 2022
  • September 2022
  • February 2022
  • January 2022
  • December 2021
  • October 2021
  • September 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • August 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • February 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • February 2017
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • February 2016
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • September 2014
  • © 2024 | Sustainable Travel International
  • Privacy Policy

sustainable travel methods

Download Our Sustainable Travel Tips List

Subscribe to get your free tips list, plus sustainable travel emails and content

Check your inbox for our Sustainable Travel Tips.

The expert guide to travelling more sustainably in 2022

Being a green traveller today is no longer limited to one-off gestures but, rather, it’s a state of mind. Pictured: Lake Buttermere, Lake District.

Taking an eco-conscious break was once synonymous with a weekend’s hedge-laying or a summer spent conserving wildlife in the tropics. How things have changed: being a green traveller today is no longer limited to one-off gestures but, rather, it’s a state of mind. An ongoing attitude to conscious adventure, it now influences all aspects of our travels, from what we pack and how we reach our destination to where we stay and the activities we take part in — from the romance of long-distance train journeys to swimming in natural swimming pools and feasting on local, seasonal food.

Such change has come about thanks to both a growing understanding of climate change — and tourism’s role in it — and to the pioneering efforts of many travel operators to show the joy of going green. Luxury camping specialists Featherdown Farm and Fforest , for example, paved the way for the glamping revolution. Digital platforms such as Under the Thatch and Canopy & Stars have made finding, and booking, low-impact rural idylls easier. Book publishers such as Sawdays  and Bradt  have stimulated the joys of slow travel. And adventure operators such as TYF , Intrepid  and Much Better Adventures have set the agenda for sustainable outdoor recreation.

This isn’t to say the evolution of green travel has been plain sailing (or railing). The trend for replacing annual trips with multiple shorter breaks has seen a rise in carbon-intensive air travel. Key overland routes have been discontinued (such as ferry services to Scandinavia and overnight ‘train hotels’ through France and Spain). Cuts in local transport services have severely impacted car-free access to rural areas for those planning more sustainable staycations. And unscrupulous businesses have jumped on the ‘eco’ travel marketing bandwagon, muddying the emerald waters.

There are, though, tangible signs that we’re entering a new age of green travel. Many specialist accommodation booking sites now have a green filter, for example, Sawday’s ‘Sustainable stars’ , i-escape’s ‘Eco rating’ , and Cool Places’ ‘Eco Retreats’ . Mainstream travel companies now provide tools to help travellers spot the difference between the genuinely green and the greenwash. Booking.com and Google, for instance, are working with not-for-profit Travalyst to flag up eco-certified hotels in their search results.

There remains an overly complicated network of rail ticketing agencies, but there are now plenty of tools to help you navigate the complexities and intricacies of booking long-distance overland train travel. The seat61  website, set up by former railway man Mark Smith, provides a wealth of tips on how to find and book the best tickets — it’s especially useful if you’re planning multi-stage journeys across international borders. A welcome development has been the emergence of Trainline as a platform for booking European rail tickets. One of the handy tools it has introduced is an email ‘ticket alert’ that lets you know as soon as bookings open for your chosen route so you can snap up the cheapest tickets when they become available.

The decarbonisation of air travel  is still a long way off, but there’s quite a large disparity between the carbon emissions of aircraft and the operating procedures of airlines, and there are now tools to help you find more carbon efficient flights, such as the ‘Greener Choices’ label on the search results provided by the flight search engine Skyscanner. While planes continue to burn huge amounts of fossil fuel, it’s hard to see how long-haul travel by plane can be framed as ‘green’, but there’s been the emergence of ‘positive impact adventures’ that help with biodiversity conservation, safeguard the local landscape and meaningfully contribute to local economic empowerment and global justice.

The emergence of The Long Run , a global alliance of nature-based tourism businesses that collectively conserve more than 23 million acres of biodiversity, has shown that these kinds of trips can make a palpable difference to safeguarding precious ecosystems. Members include many trailblazing retreats that are embedded in their local community, such as Borana Conservancy at the foot of Mount Kenya, Caiman  ecological refuge in Brazil’s vast Pantanal wetlands, Misool  in Raja Ampat, Indonesia, which protects some of the world’s most biodiverse corals reefs, and Grootbos Private Nature Reserve in South Africa, which protects 790 plant species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

Closer to home, there’s been a clutch of new travel companies selling green travel, including Byway  and Ecosy , which focus on flight-free itineraries and specialist interest trips, such as vegan breaks, while Natural Britain offers a selection of eco-friendly accommodation and low impact activities. Long-established international tour operators, such as Intrepid  and Kuoni , that have traditionally focussed on overseas travel are now selling journeys in the UK. By capitalising on the modernisation of cross-channel ferry services and the renaissance of rail (including the reintroduction of night trains across Europe) these companies are helping to make lower-carbon travel become ever more practical and, crucially, more appealing.

Three green trips to try

1. Go off-grid in Wales Just outside Machynlleth, Eco Retreats has five off-grid yurt camps (each has fresh spring water on tap and wood-fired baths) spread over 50 acres in the Dyfi Forest. There are mountainbiking trails and walks nearby, including the route up to Cader Idris in southern Snowdonia. From £275 for two nights for two sharing (up to two children free).

2. Cycle sustainably in France Travel as a foot passenger with your bike on the ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe then cycle the Véloroute du Lin between Pourville sur Mer and Fécamp. This 50-mile route is bookended by railway stations at Dieppe and Fécamp. Stay just off-route at Le Clos des Ifs, from €65 (£60), B&B. Ferries from €50 (£42) return per adult including bike. 

3. Rail and sail to Greece Make for the Pelion peninsula, between Athens and Thessaloniki. Take the train to Bari, on Italy’s heel, then ferry to Igoumenitsa on mainland Greece to catch the bus across to Volos, the gateway to the Pelion. There are three buses a day from Volos to the village of Tsagkarada where you can stay at Amanita . From £134, two-night minimum stay.

Richard Hammond is the author of The Green Traveller: Conscious adventure that doesn’t cost the earth, published by Pavilion, £18.99.

Follow us on social media

Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Instagram

  • Travel and Adventure

How to Be a Sustainable Traveler: 18 Tips

These sustainable travel tips will help you become a more responsible traveler

  • Chapman University

sustainable travel methods

  • Harvard University Extension School
  • Sustainable Fashion
  • Art & Media

Being a sustainable traveler means keeping your ecological footprint low while supporting ethical economic development in local communities affected by tourism. That means everything from minimizing plastic consumption and making greener transportation choices to eating at locally owned restaurants and booking eco conscious accommodations.

The goal of sustainable travel is to meet the needs of the tourism industry without harming natural and cultural environments. If not managed properly, tourism can have incredibly negative impacts, from the loss of a destination’s cultural identity to the depletion of natural resources, pollution, and degradation of ecosystems. In many cases, tourism can be a valuable tool to help support communities and give back to nature.

1. Make Smarter Flight Choices

Air travel emissions make up a whopping 20% of a tourist’s carbon footprint. If you must fly, be sure to pack light to lessen the plane’s load and try to book a non-stop flight. On average, non-stop flights reduce carbon emissions by 100 kg per person compared to connecting options. Not only do connecting flights usually require flying greater total distances, planes use more fuel during taxi, take off, and descent.

Londolozi Images / Getty Images

2. Switch to Reusables

Rather than buying plastic water bottles on your travels, bring along a reusable water bottle instead. If you’re heading to a destination with questionable water quality, look into a water purifying system or tablets. Bring along reusable utensils, tote bags, containers, and straws so you can say no to single use plastic while shopping or eating out.

3. Skip Travel Size Toiletries

Single use travel size toiletry bottles are a huge source of tourism-related plastic pollution and help contribute to the nearly 11 million metric tons of plastic pollution dumped into the oceans annually. Switch to refillable and reusable bottles made of glass, silicone, or even recycled plastic material and fill them up with products from your larger sized bottles at home. Even huge chains like Marriott have begun to phase out single use travel toiletries, citing the fact that their properties send 500 million mini plastic bottles into landfills each year.

4. Be Mindful of Local Resources

Pay attention to how much water you’re using while on vacation by opting for short showers instead of baths and turning off the water while brushing teeth or shaving. Fill up your refillable and reusable travel containers with an eco friendly biodegradable soap and shampoo, especially while camping.

Local resources can also include necessities like emergency services and hospital beds. Always research weather conditions and terrain before hiking or taking a road trip to avoid getting lost or injured and having to get rescued, which can drain important public resources and tax dollars.

5. Do Your Research

Look for accommodations, destination, products, and tour companies that have been deemed sustainable by a legitimate certifying body. In the sustainable tourism world, that means organizations like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council , The Rainforest Alliance , and Earth Check .

Sustainably-minded travelers should always be on the lookout for greenwashing in the travel industry, as well. Any company can call themselves sustainable or “green” in an attempt to attract eco-minded customers, so it is important to research ahead of time to find out what specific sustainable actions they’re taking. If a company has done the work to develop responsible tourism policies that include environmental and social impacts, they’ll have the information displayed on their website. If not, don’t be afraid to ask.

6. Respect Natural Places

Ronda Kimbrow / Getty Images

Remember that marked hiking trails are there for a reason, usually to help preserve the surrounding environment and keep native flora out of harm’s way. Take out what you brought in and don’t litter. Keep your distance from wildlife and never feed or touch wild animals, for your own safety and for the safety of the animals themselves.

In beach areas, use reef safe sunscreen without harmful ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, and never step on coral or stir up sediment (which can also cause damage to the ecosystem).

7. Support Locals Directly

Seeking out local experiences like homestays and hiring local guides is the best way to learn about a new culture — while also ensuring that your money goes directly toward stimulating the local economy.

Purchasing handmade souvenirs and art created by indigenous artisans can help preserve authentic cultural heritage and provide jobs. Food that is grown locally and businesses that are owned and operated by local families are often better quality and more budget friendly, all while helping keep money in local pockets.

8. Go Low Impact

Choose vacations that demand less resources and make less of an impact on the environment, such as camping or even glamping . If you go the more traditional vacation route, opt for low impact activities that will have zero to minimal impact on the environment, such as kayaking or hiking. 

9. Find Ways to Give Back

Consider the ways that you can contribute to the local community and give back while traveling. This can be as simple as picking up a piece of trash in the park or volunteering for a beach clean up. If you’re planning a trip where volunteering is your primary objective , make sure that the charity has strong links with host communities and isn’t taking jobs away from local people. There has been a lot of debate as to whether or not “voluntourism” does more harm than good, and in many cases, you’re better off donating money or goods through a reputable organization.  

Pack for a Purpose helps connect travelers with charities to provide supplies needed for specific communities.

10. Don’t Support Unethical Wildlife Tourism

If you want to view wildlife, see them in their natural habitats or go to accredited wildlife sanctuaries that work to rescue and rehabilitate animals. When it comes to ecotourism, check with advocacy groups like the International Ecotourism Society for organizations that follow strict sustainable tourism practices.

Supporting activities like cub petting and elephant riding helps encourage abusive industries that often illegally capture animals from the wild. Never buy products made from wildlife parts, as this helps support marketplaces for animal trafficking.

11. Don’t Leave Your Sustainable Habits at Home

If you’re a regular Treehugger reader, chances are you already have plenty of sustainable practices you use every day, so continue to use them while traveling. Turn the lights off and the air conditioning down when you leave a room, and ask your hotel about their recycling program. Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean your sustainable lifestyle has to fly out the window. 

12. Respect Local Culture and Traditions

Do some research on the culture and traditions of a destination before you travel; it will not only help you make a connection to the place, but also help ensure that you honor the local customs. Even better, learn the language or a few important words and simple phrases such as “please,” and “thank you.” If you run across a local ceremony while on your travels, keep a respectful distance.

13. Stay Longer

Tourism transportation demands affects energy use and CO2 emissions, but also puts pressures on infrastructure and land. Shorter lengths of stays that focus on restricted time budgets can lead to high concentrations of tourist flows in “must see” attractions, while tourists who stay longer are more likely to visit more small businesses in locations outside of main tourist areas. Instead of planning trips where you try to visit as many places or see as much as possible in a short amount of time, consider staying in one spot for longer and really getting a feel for the area.

14. Be Adaptable and Understanding

One of the best parts of traveling is seeing new things and having new experiences. Keeping an open mind and not demanding everything that you’re used to in your own country will put less pressure on your destination and its people. Not to mention, you’ll probably have a better time.

15. Travel Shorter Distances

Tourism is responsible for about 8% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, and transportation accounts for nearly half of global tourism’s carbon footprint. That doesn’t mean you have to give up your lifelong dream of visiting the Eiffel Tower, just don’t count out the unique experiences available in your very own country or closer to home. If you do want to visit popular tourist destinations, go during off season or shoulder season .

16. Walk as Much as Possible

A majority of tourism’s environmental footprint can be attributed to transport, but that doesn’t just include airplanes. A tourist’s first stop after arriving at a new destination is often the airport car rental counter, so that they can get to their accommodation or head off to see the sights. Instead, sustainable travelers use every opportunity to walk, bike, or utilize public transportation in order to avoid those transportation related emissions. Check if your destination has a bike sharing program or has an easy-to-navitage train system, you might even save some money at the same time.

17. Look Into Carbon Offsets

Sustainable travelers should always try to reduce their carbon footprint first, but offsetting can be a useful tool in situations where reducing your footprint might be more difficult.

Carbon offsetting involves compensating for generated greenhouse gas emissions by reducing emission elsewhere. For example, TerraPass lets users calculate their carbon footprint from vehicles, public transit, air travel, and home energy before providing ways to contribute to sustainable projects like water restoration and wind power.

18. Share What You’ve Learned

Share sustainable travel tips with friends, family members, and fellow travelers; even small changes can make a huge difference. Travel teaches us how to better understand the world by introducing us to new cultures and customs different than our own. Plus, humans are innate explorers, so traveling will always be a massive industry. If we can share ways to make travel more environmentally friendly, respectful, and sustainable, we can highlight the valuable aspects of tourism and reduce the negative ones.

Start with switching up your modes of transportation. Take ground transport instead of flying when possible and public transport instead of your own vehicle. For shorter distances, try walking or cycling. It also helps to travel slower, focusing on one destination or city instead of trying to explore an entire region.

Regenerative travel is a step above sustainable travel. It means traveling in a way that not only produces no impact but is actually beneficial to local communities and the environment. You might do this by volunteering or staying at an agritourismo.

Look for the Global Sustainable Tourism Council certification. GSTC is an independent, neutral organization that establishes and monitors global standards for destinations and tourism companies all over the world.

Debbage, Keith, and Neil Debbage. " Aviation Carbon Emissions, Route Choice, and Tourist Destinations: Are Non-Stop Routes a Remedy? " Annals of Tourism Research , vol. 79, 2019, pp. 102765, doi:10.1016/j.annals.2019.102765

" Fuel Conversation Strategies: Takeoff and Climb ." Boeing.

" Breaking the Plastic Wave ." Pew Charitable Trusts.

" Marriott International To Eliminate Single-Use Shower Toiletry Bottles From Properties Worldwide, Expanding Successful 2018 Initiative ." Marriott International.

" Is Your Sunscreen Killing the Coral Reef? " Ocean Conservancy.

Gossling, Stefan, et al. " Global Trends in Length of Stay: Implications for Destination Management and Climate Change ." Journal of Sustainable Tourism , vol. 26, no. 12, 2018, pp. 2087-2101, doi:10.1080/09669582.2018.1529771

Lenzen, Manfred, et al. " The Carbon Footprint of Global Tourism ." Nature Climate Change , vol. 8, 2018, pp. 522-528, doi:10.1038/s41558-018-0141-x

  • Regenerative Travel: What It Is and How It's Outperforming Sustainable Tourism
  • What Is Sustainable Tourism and Why Is It Important?
  • 'The Last Tourist' Film Will Make You Approach Travel Differently
  • What Is Ecotourism? Definition, Examples, and Pros and Cons
  • 10 Ways to Be an Eco-Conscious Tourist
  • Best of Green Awards 2021: Sustainable Travel
  • What Is Overtourism and Why Is It Such a Big Problem?
  • How to Become a Geo-Traveler
  • 5 Easy Tips to Make Travel More Sustainable
  • These Travel Companies Offer Tours for a Post-Pandemic World
  • Some Advice on How to Travel More Intentionally
  • Philadelphia Urges Residents to Be Tourists in Their Own City
  • Should All Travel Companies Adopt Carbon Labeling?
  • 22 Sustainable Swaps to Make at Home
  • The 9 Best Eco-Friendly Sun Hats
  • Responsible Travel Plans to Ban All Short-Haul Jet Flights

Ecobnb

  • Partners and Fundings
  • events & news
  • green hotels
  • who’s talking about us

What is Sustainable Travel: 8 Best Practices

sustainable travel methods

What is sustainable travel? Traveling sustainably means being aware of the impact of tourism on the environment and adopting good practices  to reduce the negative effects.

Planet Earth has limited resources and mass tourism puts their existence at risk. Therefore, sustainable travel is a way to preserve nature , instead of commodifying it to attract tourists.

What is sustainable travel?

According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) , sustainable tourism is defined as:

“Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.”

The term sustainable travel refers to the adoption of sustainable practices with the aim of minimizing the negative impacts and maximizing the positive effects of tourism.

Sustainable Travel: 8 Best Practices

Let’s find out 8 easy ways to travel eco-friendly:

1. Staying in eco-friendly accommodations

Staying in eco-friendly accommodations reduces the impact of tourism on the environment . From renewable energy production to bio-architecture, eco-friendly lodgings focus on preserving the environment and have positive environmental effects. However, this is not all. Staying in eco-friendly tourism accommodations also supports the local economy . In fact, most environmentally friendly lodgings offer zero-kilometer, organic food .

In this regard, Ecobnb is a platform that allows travelers to find and book sustainable tourism accommodations . Our properties meet at least 5 of the 10 sustainability criteria listed below.

10 criteria for assessing environmental sustainability of Ecobnb's tourism accommodations

Additionally, engaging with these accommodations often introduces travelers to essential  travel  vocabulary  related to sustainability and eco-friendly  practices , enhancing their awareness and ability to make informed choices during their journeys.

2. Making optimal use of environmental resources

Making optimal use of environmental resources preserves natural heritage and biodiversity . The main problem is that the consumption of environmental resources exceeds their ability to regenerate, causing climate change and loss of biodiversity .

In this regard, the ecological footprint is an indicator capable of measuring the environmental impact created by the excessive use of natural resources.

 graph of the ecological footprint of several countries

3. Taking public transportation

Taking public transportation reduces air pollution and improves road congestion . By using public transport, the number of cars on the roads decreases and less carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere. Likewise, fewer vehicles reduce traffic jams on the roads.

comparison between C02 emissions of different modes of transportation

4. Respecting the culture of local communities

Respecting the culture of local communities conserves cultural and artistic heritage . The interaction with locals is one of the most rewarding things of sustainable travel and preserves traditions passed down from generation to generation. It is essential to respect traditions as they form the identity of the local community and create a sense of unity among people.

man proud of his culture smiles and waves his hand

5. Buying from and supporting local businesses

Buying from and supporting local businesses empowers the local economy . But this is not all. Local products do not involve transportation, require less packaging, and create more jobs.

shop selling local products

6. Traveling slow

Traveling slow minimizes the impact on the environment and saves money . For instance, choosing the train over other means of transportation both reduces the ecological impact and is a cheaper option. But this is not all. Traveling slow also allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Travelling by train is more sustainable

7. Saying NO to single-use plastic

Saying NO to single-use plastic reduces pollution . The production of plastic uses fossil fuels and therefore releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. In addition, 8 million tons of plastic end up in oceans every year (source: National Geographic ) putting marine life at risk .

turtle swimming between plastic

8. Eating local food

Eating local food ensures freshness and benefits local businesses . In fact, locally produced food does not require transportation, so it is fresh and nutritious. Furthermore, eating local products supports the local economy and contributes to increasing employment and income within a community ( tourism multiplier effect ).

local organic shop

Infographic: what is sustainable travel?

To conclude, the following infographic summarizes the 8 good practices to adopt for your next sustainable travel .

infographic "what is sustainable travel?": 8 good practices to adopt for your next sustainable travel

Cover image via Canva Pro

You might also like

sustainable travel methods

Circular Economy and Tourism. The Ecobnb’s Guide

If you don’t know how Circular Economy and Tourism are related, find it out in the Ecobnb’s Guide. What’s about the Circular Economy? The Circular Economy, is an economic system that aims to reduce waste and to regenerate products and services. This innovative economic system is based on the philosophy of ‘Remake, Reuse, Recycle‘, so […]

sustainable travel methods

Tips for responsible travelers

A walk through the sounds and colors of a Moroccan suq, an unforgettable excursion to Machu Picchu, a day out on the ocean by boat: our world is full of beauty and endless adventures that await us. So let’s travel and discover every corner of Earth, but let’s do it right, let’s become responsible travelers. In our blog […]

sustainable travel methods

5 Ways To Be A More Sustainable Traveler

Traveling can bring so much positive impact to the world. It goes beyond just seeing new places, creating new experiences, and appreciating the culture and practices of others. It’s also a way to learn from the way other people across the globe live and bring home these experiences back home for your friends and family […]

sustainable travel methods

6 Tips For Bringing Sustainability Into Your Travel

Travel these days is so easy. It can be inexpensive to travel any distance all across the globe, allowing you to visit places people never would have dreamed of visiting 100 years ago. But, the not so positive side to all of this is that traveling tends to hurt the environment and even the people […]

Sustainably Forward

Sustainably Forward

Eco-Friendly Transportation: 12 Helpful Ideas

Eco-Friendly Transportation

Dive into the world of eco-friendly transportation with our engaging guide. Discover sustainable travel methods that benefit both you and the planet!

Eco-Friendly Transportation Key Takeaways:

Eco-friendly transportation refers to travel methods that minimize environmental impact.

  • It includes cycling, walking, public transit, and electric vehicles.
  • The aim is to reduce emissions and promote sustainability.

Table of Contents

It’s not just about getting from A to B; it’s about making a positive impact on our environment while enjoying the journey.

Let’s explore how simple changes in our travel habits can lead to a greener, healthier world.

It includes cycling, walking, public transit, and electric vehicles, aiming to reduce emissions and promote sustainability.

Eco-Friendly Transportation: Steering Towards a Greener Tomorrow

We’re at a pivotal juncture in our environmental journey, where every step towards sustainability counts.

One critical leap we can make is in the realm of transportation. It’s about rethinking our travel, not just for the sake of our planet, but for our well-being and wallets too.

Key Takeaways

  • Embracing Sustainable Transportation : Understanding its importance for our environment and society.
  • Diverse Modes : Exploring various eco-friendly transportation methods.
  • Infrastructure and Policies : The role of supportive structures and initiatives.

Introduction to Sustainable Transportation

In our quest for a greener future, minimizing global oil consumption stands paramount.

This quest calls for innovative transportation methods that harmonize with ecological principles.

Sustainable transportation isn’t just a boon for our environment; it enhances our health, eases our finances, and enriches our life quality.

What is Sustainable Transportation?

Sustainable transportation transcends conventional travel methods, prioritizing reduced emissions, energy conservation, and efficient resource utilization.

This encompasses public transport like buses and subways, simple practices such as biking and walking, and shared commutes via carpooling or ridesharing .

Each mode brings unique benefits and inches us closer to an environmentally conscious lifestyle.

Electric vehicles and clean fuel alternatives are revolutionizing travel, cutting down our dependence on non-renewable energy.

As we pivot from oil-centric models to these sustainable options, we’re crafting a future where eco-friendly choices steer our transport narratives.

Examples of Sustainable Transportation and Their Benefits

Public transit.

Mass transit systems like buses, trains, and subways play a vital role in urban mobility and sustainable city development.

They’re surprisingly efficient in reducing emissions compared to individual cars, thanks to their capacity to transport many passengers at once.

These systems not only foster environmental well-being but also promote social equity and are pivotal in smart city planning.

Cycling and Walking

Embracing cycling and walking for daily commutes offers profound health benefits while contributing significantly to environmental conservation.

These activities boost physical fitness and mental well-being, making them perfect examples of sustainable transportation.

Micromobility

Innovations like e-bikes , e-scooters, and electric skateboards are reshaping urban transport.

These compact, eco-friendly options are ideal for short distances, reducing traffic congestion and emissions.

Micromobility demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to city mobility, emphasizing environmental care and transport efficiency.

Building Eco-Friendly Transport Infrastructure

The backbone of any successful sustainable transportation system is robust infrastructure.

It’s not just about providing alternatives but also about ensuring accessibility and safety. Innovations in road design, dedicated bike lanes, and well-planned public transport networks are crucial.

Such infrastructure encourages people to opt for greener modes of transport, effectively reducing the overall environmental impact.

Policies and Initiatives for More Sustainable Transportation

Government and private sector initiatives play a pivotal role in fostering eco-friendly transport.

Subsidies for electric vehicles, investments in public transit infrastructure, and policies encouraging reduced car use are some examples.

These efforts not only facilitate the shift towards greener transport options but also demonstrate a commitment to a sustainable future.

Measuring the Impact of Eco-Conscious Travel

Assessing the effectiveness of sustainable transport involves looking at emission reductions, energy savings, and societal benefits.

Case studies from around the world provide valuable insights into the positive impact of eco-friendly transport practices, from reduced air pollution to enhanced urban livability.

The Role of Technology in Green Transportation

The intersection of green technology and green transportation is creating exciting possibilities.

From electric vehicles with advanced battery technologies to smart traffic management systems, technology is at the forefront of this green revolution.

Innovations are not only making sustainable transport more accessible but also more efficient and appealing to the masses.

Challenges and Issues in Sustainable Transportation

While the shift towards eco-friendly transport is gaining momentum, it’s not without its hurdles.

Issues like funding, public acceptance, and infrastructure adaptation pose significant challenges.

Addressing these requires a collaborative approach, involving policymakers, industry players, and the public.

Innovative solutions and persistent efforts are key to overcoming these barriers and paving the way for a more sustainable transport future.

Incorporating real-world examples of successful sustainable transportation projects into the article can provide practical insights and highlight effective strategies. Here are some examples, complete with references:

  • Nottingham, UK – Improving Bus Services : Nottingham City Council utilized its powers over bus stops, timetables, and routes to improve bus quality and services, enhancing public transportation efficiency and accessibility​​. Nottingham | Centre for Cities
  • Helsinki, Finland – Integrated Transport Planning : Helsinki Region Transport successfully integrated the planning of bus services with other modes of transport in the region, creating a more cohesive and user-friendly public transport system​​.
  • London, UK – Direct Regulation of Bus Services : Transport for London gained the authority to directly regulate bus services, significantly improving the quality and efficiency of public transport in the city​​. London | Centre for Cities
  • Paris, France – Long-Term Funding for Infrastructure : The French Government’s commitment to providing long-term funding certainty for transport infrastructure encouraged investment and development in sustainable transport options​​.
  • Dublin, Ireland – Data-Driven Public Transport Improvement : Dublin City Council, in collaboration with IBM, used data sharing to improve the public transport network, demonstrating the importance of technology in enhancing transport services​​.
  • Copenhagen, Denmark – Investment in Cycling Infrastructure : The Copenhagen City Council’s focus on investing in cycling infrastructure has made the city a global model for sustainable urban mobility, emphasizing the benefits of non-motorized transport ​.
  • Montpellier, France – Introducing a Tram System : In response to fast population growth, Montpellier Agglomeration introduced a tram system, improving connectivity and reducing the reliance on private vehicles​​.
  • Eugene, Oregon, USA – New Bus System : Eugene’s Lane Transit District and City Council introduced a new bus system to provide better links between the city center and surrounding areas, showcasing how mid-sized cities can enhance public transport​.
  • New York City, USA – Reducing Vehicle Idling : Efforts by the New York City authority to reduce vehicle idling have contributed to cleaner air and a healthier urban environment​.
  • Los Angeles, USA – Demand-Based Parking System : Los Angeles introduced a demand-based parking system to reduce congestion, highlighting innovative approaches to traffic management​.

These examples illustrate various approaches cities around the world have taken to enhance eco-friendly transportation , from improving public transport services to investing in cycling infrastructure and utilizing technology for better transport management.

Incorporating these case studies can provide valuable insights and inspiration for other cities and regions aiming to improve their sustainable transportation systems.

Transport is at the center of many economic and social development challenges, accounting for about 64% of global oil consumption, 27% of all energy use, and 23% of the world’s energy-related carbon dioxide emissions. Rethinking and revamping transit in the post-COVID era by implementing structural changes would go a long way toward reinforcing some of the positive impacts on emission levels and air quality created by efforts to curb the pandemic. https://www.iisd.org/articles/deep-dive/road-sustainable-transport

The Future of Sustainable Transportation

Envisioning the future of sustainable transportation involves a blend of innovative technologies, policy reforms, and a shift in public mindset.

We’re likely to see an increase in electric and autonomous vehicles, more efficient public transport systems, and cities designed with sustainability at their core.

This future hinges not just on technological advancements but also on societal willingness to embrace greener transportation options.

6 Practical Tips for Adopting Greener Travel Methods

  • Opt for Public Transport : Whenever possible, choose buses, trains, or trams over personal vehicles.
  • Embrace Cycling and Walking : For shorter distances, cycling or walking can be both healthy and eco-friendly.
  • Carpooling : Share rides with friends or colleagues to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
  • Use Electric Vehicles : Consider switching to electric cars or bikes for cleaner transportation.
  • Plan Efficient Routes : Optimize your travel routes to reduce unnecessary travel and save fuel.
  • Support Green Transportation Initiatives : Advocate for and support local policies and projects that promote sustainable transportation.

FAQs Section

Navigating the world of sustainable transportation can bring up many questions.

Whether you’re a daily commuter, a city planner, or simply someone looking to reduce your carbon footprint, understanding eco-friendly transportation is key.

Here, we address some of the most commonly asked questions to clarify concepts and encourage informed choices toward greener travel.

Q1: What is eco-friendly transportation?

A1: Eco-friendly transportation refers to modes of transport that have a reduced environmental impact, such as bicycles, electric vehicles, and public transit.

Q2: Why is sustainable transportation important?

A2: Sustainable transportation is crucial for reducing carbon emissions, combating climate change, and creating healthier urban environments.

Q3: Can switching to eco-friendly transportation methods significantly impact the environment?

A3: Yes, adopting greener travel methods can significantly reduce carbon emissions and pollution, contributing to a healthier planet.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey Towards Sustainable Transportation

As we conclude, it’s clear that eco-friendly transportation is not just a trend but a necessary shift towards a sustainable future.

  • Collective Responsibility : It’s up to each of us, individuals and communities alike, to make conscious transport choices.
  • Technological Advancements : Continued innovation in green technology is essential for progress in this area.
  • Policy and Community Support : Governmental policies and community initiatives play a crucial role in facilitating this transition.
  • Health and Environmental Benefits : Adopting eco-friendly transportation methods significantly contributes to personal health and environmental conservation.
  • Future Outlook : The journey towards sustainable transportation is ongoing, with new developments and challenges ahead.

Together, we can drive towards a future where transportation is not only efficient but also harmonious with our environment.

Let’s make the switch to more sustainable transport methods and save our planet.

Related Posts:

Green Transportation Ideas

Sustainable travel: 6 simple tips to make a positive impact on your next trip

Sasha Brady

Apr 6, 2022 • 6 min read

Family buying at the Spanish farmer's market.  They are buying Spanish oranges and other fruit...COVID-19 pandemic..Canon R5

Bring reusable bags for shopping © Imgorthand / Getty Images

Sustainable travel is about making smarter choices in every aspect of the trip. It starts at the beginning, when booking transport and accommodation, and comes into play when seeking out local experiences and being conscious of where you're investing your tourist dollars.

But that doesn't mean you need to totally overhaul your vacation. We've put together a list of practical tips that will help you along the way, even if you're just getting started on your sustainable travel journey. 

A woman and man shop at a stall in historic Venice.

1. Travel off-peak or off-beat

In recent years, the global phenomenon of overtourism has begun straining infrastructure and ecosystems, and pricing locals out of communities. For a time it appeared that this trend wasn't slowing down, but then the  pandemic hit and holiday hotspots suddenly went from overtourism to no tourism.

As travel rebounds, many people are rethinking how they explore. Taking the road less traveled and visiting under-the-radar spots to avoid crowds is one way to be responsible.

But if you can't resist the lure of the big tourist districts, Justin Francis, CEO of activist travel company Responsible Travel , says you should travel off-peak . "If you really want to see the canals of Venice , or La Sagrada Familia of Barcelona , then consider traveling outside of summer or school holiday," he advises. "There will be far fewer people around, and the money you spend will help businesses that can struggle outside peak season."

The Points Guy:  Carbon offsetting: How to calculate your carbon footprint when you travel

Smiling woman using smart phone on station

2. Go by road or rail

Trains, planes and automobiles. Which one is best? Air travel is the natural enemy of sustainable travel because it wreaks havoc on the environment. The Swedes have even coined a new phrase, ' flygskam’ or ‘flight shame,’ to refer to the feeling of environmental guilt travelers have over flying. Unfortunately though, sometimes flying is non-negotiable. If you live in New York and need to visit Shanghai , you're not going to take the slow boat to China . So the best solution is to fly less.

9 best sleeper train journeys to take in Europe in 2022

"Instead of taking three or four short city breaks by air each year, aim to take one, longer trip by plane and a few ‘staycations’ or trips where you go by road or rail," recommends Francis. He notes that travelers should always choose economy class (as first class can have a much higher carbon footprint ) and fly direct where possible. "You can also look into which airlines have the lowest emissions per passenger mile . And wherever you can, travel overland in a destination instead of taking domestic flights."

I'm a Lonely Planet writer and I gave up flying. Here's what happened

A triangular wooden structure, with a glass wall, is shown in the middle of a field, Inside, a pair of armchairs are visible.

3. Opt for eco-conscious accommodation

Eco-conscious accommodation has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, thanks to changing attitudes among consumers. Now the industry knows what's good for the planet is good for profit and hotels are starting to rack up serious eco-credentials. There are CO2-neutral stays on offer in places like The Brando in Tahiti, the Olakira Camp in the Serengeti , Vienna's Boutiquehotel Stadthalle and Hotel Kong Arthur in Copenhagen , part of Arthur Hotels, which was the world's first carbon-neutral hotel group. You can even try Zero Island, a tourist-friendly island in Sweden that managed to go carbon neutral in one year.

When it comes to plastic waste, the Angama Mara in Kenya follows a strict plastic-free policy and EDITION Hotels launched the "Stay Plastic Free" campaign to remove single-use plastics from the hospitality industry. Companies are also giving back, like AccorHotels who are financing smart-tree planting schemes for local farms. In 2016, the international hotel group planted nearly 17,000 trees in the UK as part of its global Plant for the Planet program, financed by the £233,000 saved by guests reusing towels rather than sending them to the laundry.

16 stunning eco-hotels for the environmentally conscious traveler

4. Pack reusable items

The best way to reduce your waste output is to produce less. Vicky Ellmore from Reusable Nation says pack light and purposeful. "Stick to the basics and take reusables like a water bottle, coffee cup, steel or bamboo straw, food container (collapsible ones are great for traveling) and bamboo cutlery or a spork so you can avoid single-use plastics," she advises. "Take a reusable shopping bag and produce bags so you can shop plastic-free, and take zero waste toiletries, such as shampoo bars, deodorant paste and tooth tablets. You'll create a lot less waste and you won't have to worry about liquids and aerosols."

Bea Johnson, the author of Zero Waste Home recommends repurposing everyday items you use at home for vacation use. "I bring my own earbuds and a peshtemal, which I use as a towel at the beach, a picnic blanket in a park or a scarf when it gets cold, but also a blanket on the plane, so I don't have to use those provided by the airlines which are wrapped in plastic."

Innovative sustainable tourism attractions around the world

A male and female traveller hold chapatis while posing with a woman leading a cooking course

5. Spend your money locally

If you choose locally-owned accommodation, eat at independent restaurants, buy locally made products and choose local experiences you can make a positive impact. Travel social enterprises such as I Like Local use tourist dollars to create sustainable incomes for local guides and hosts in 19 countries across Asia and Africa . Founder Sanne Meijboom tells Lonely Planet, "As many local people in Asia and Africa are not benefiting from tourism in their country and more travelers are looking for authentic travel experiences, we connect the dots. A traveler like you can join local life and the local person earns 100% of the money he asks for the experience."

Colombian tour company Impulse also has a social enterprise mission and harnesses the power of tourism to generate a market-driven peace movement. "We do this by creating experiences travelers love and which actively involve local communities thriving for peace in the business. This generates economic and cultural empowerment that supports social transformation and helps break material and psychological poverty cycles within the communities," says Impulse's Nikola Kelch. "Our passion is to help communities get back on their feet, one tour at a time."

Travelers taking pictures with elephants at a Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai

6. Choose your animal experiences carefully

Even 'harmless' selfies can be threatening to wildlife. According to the charity World Animal Protection (WPA), animals in the Amazon “are being torn from the wild so tourists can take selfies for Instagram and other social media”.

How to be a responsible wildlife tourist

Animals shouldn't be used for human entertainment and they need to live as free from human interference as possible. If you are keen to see wild animals in their natural habitat, choose places that offer ethical and sustainable animal interactions such as elephant sanctuaries and marine conservation volunteer projects. Elephant rides should always be given a miss and avoid all experiences where animals are behaving unnaturally.

The best way to travel sustainably is to be more mindful. As Responsible Travel's Justin Francis sums it up, "There is just one key point to keep in mind: respect the fact that you’re holidaying in someone else’s home, and think about how you can make a positive impact while you’re there."

7 easy tips for eco-friendly travel on a budget

You might also like: 'Why travelers need to rethink their attitude to travel' Into the green: eight destinations for an eco-friendly escape You can be a part of worldwide coral regeneration schemes – here's how

This article was first published June 2019 and updated April 2022

Explore related stories

Woman taking photo with a smartphone of Jungfrau while riding in train

Sustainable Travel

Jan 16, 2024 • 8 min read

Rolling forests, saw-toothed mountains, bridges spanning river gorges - these European train rides put on quite a show.

VENICE, ITALY - AUGUST 02: Gondoliers proceed slowly near the Sospiri Bridge near St. Mark's Square due to too much traffic on August 02, 2023 in Venice, Italy. UNESCO officials have included Venice and its lagoon to the list of world heritage in danger to review, along with Ukraine's Kyiv, and Lviv. The UN cultural agency deems Italy not effective in protecting Venice from mass tourism and extreme weather conditions. (Photo by Stefano Mazzola/Getty Images)

Jan 9, 2024 • 5 min read

sustainable travel methods

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

NJnGReisende-am-Bahnsteig2.jpg

Nov 1, 2023 • 4 min read

Caledonian-Sleeper-March-2022Lucy-Knott-Photography-5.png

Oct 19, 2023 • 8 min read

903428624

Sep 12, 2023 • 9 min read

Aug 4, 2023 • 3 min read

sustainable travel methods

Jul 5, 2023 • 5 min read

sustainable travel methods

Mar 29, 2023 • 5 min read

sustainable travel methods

Jan 3, 2023 • 7 min read

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

12 ways to travel sustainably in the new year

The best way to make up for a year without trips? Commit to exploring responsibly—when the time is right.

Cholla Cactus in Joshua Tree National Park.

A cholla cactus in Joshua Tree National Park , California. Supporting the responsible use of public lands is one way to travel better in the new year.

With COVID-19 vaccines rolling out, travelers may be tempted to rush back out into the world. But now is the time to pause and consider mass tourism’s impact on the planet. Can we travel more sustainably? Can our journeys support conservation? The answer is a resounding “yes.”

A December 2020 National Geographic and Morning Consult poll asked how people would approach travel after the coronavirus pandemic is under control. A majority of our readers (42 percent) say they will feel safer traveling to wilderness areas.

( Here’s what COVID-19 vaccines mean for travel . )

The moon as seen through fall leaves.

The moon glows through fall leaves in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, New York.

The view of a sunset from inside a home.

A fiery sunset gives way to night, as seen from a home in Villeneuve-Loubet, France.

Nat Geo’s Travel team is resolving to make mindful excursions this year and beyond. This means that we will aim to reduce our carbon footprint, step off the beaten path and linger longer wherever we go, respect cultural differences and invest in the communities we visit, reconnect with nature in a state park, and support organizations that are protecting the planet.

In the year ahead we will focus on actions travelers can take to make sustainability a part of every journey. Here are 12 ways travelers can come back stronger.

1. Explore the space above you

For most of my life I’ve been focused on Earth, but suddenly I’m drawn to the stars—and obsessed with the moon (some call it “selenophilia”). I’ve been taking stellar pictures of the moon on my iPhone through a telescope. It’s not hard   and the results are out of this world! Looking at the moon brings me peace and wonder. I feel part of something larger, in awe of the cosmos, and amazed by the scientists who are decoding the universe and the astrologers who are helping us understand our inner constellations.

How to get started:   Our Nat Geo friend Andrew Fazekas compiled a list of 10 spectacular stargazing events to watch in 2021. He shoots for the moon and includes many other heavenly delights: close planetary encounters, dazzling meteor showers, and a “blood moon” eclipse. Unfortunately, about 80 percent of Americans can’t see the Milky Way anymore and light pollution is getting worse . To see the stars, it helps to plan a trip somewhere dark—like parks and sanctuaries certified by the International Dark-Sky Association ; these are places around the world that are protecting the night sky through responsible lighting policies that counteract light pollution. —George Stone

2. Embrace diversity outdoors

I grew up in Georgia hating the outdoors. Fishing at the lake with my father? No, thank you. Camping with friends in the backwoods? Hard pass. Even the wet dog smell that clings to your skin from sitting in the sun too long makes me nauseous. But last year the pandemic pushed me (a young, black woman) to chase waterfalls , trek through deserts , and fall in love with nature’s breathtaking beauty. This year, I plan to make visiting national parks and wild, open spaces a priority rather than an afterthought. Maybe I’ll finally discover what it’s like to sleep under the stars.

How to get started:   An important goal of sustainable travel is to make the world accessible to all, so that travelers are as diverse as the destinations they visit. In an article for Nat Geo last year, James Edward Mills wrote about how people of color across the U.S. are empowering themselves and others to become outdoor enthusiasts. Even though Black Americans represent 13.4 percent of the U.S. population, a 2018 report published in The George Wright Forum indicates that we make up less than 2 percent of national park visitors.

But things are changing. Organizations such as Color Outside , Black Girls Hiking , and Outdoor Afro are helping POCs feel more seen in outdoor spaces. With 423 open to the public units—62 of which are the famous “ national parks ”—overseen by the National Park System and hundreds of other public spaces run by the Bureau of Land Management and the Fish and Wildlife Service, there is plenty of nature to explore this year. —Starlight Williams

3. Enjoy public lands—responsibly

I’ve always loved spending time outdoors. But reporting on the national parks has made me realize just how challenging it is to preserve natural spaces for their own sake—and for the people who rely on them. During the coronavirus pandemic, public lands in the U.S. have experienced a huge uptick in visitors seeking a respite from the enormous stresses of isolation. Many of these visitors are first-timers who might be unaware of best practices when it comes to sustainable use.

A Joshua Tree in Joshua Tree National Park.

A Joshua tree lit by the setting sun in Joshua Tree National Park, California.

The sun sets on Fisher Towers.

Fisher Towers is a scenic series of natural towers located outside Arches National Park , near Moab, Utah.

On my own frequent hikes in the mountains near my home, I see trails strewn with litter or showing the early signs of trail braiding, which happens when enough people take shortcuts that a new path is worn in, increasing erosion and risk of damage to the environment. As someone who turns to my favorite county park for comfort and wonder, I feel it’s my responsibility to spend more time this year learning about the history of the area and supporting its stewardship.

How to get started : Because of overtourism, off-trail hiking, land destruction, and abandoned campfires , it’s essential to minimize your impact on public lands. Learn how to be a responsible guest ( leave no trace , steer clear of wildlife, and respect your neighbors) and avoid contributing to overcrowding by visiting these 10 under-the-radar wilderness areas . —Rachel Brown

4. Volunteer for science

Before I was a travel editor, I was a science geek. I spent much of my final college semester lugging around a parabolic microphone to record the mating calls of spring peeper frogs. (This did nothing for my own romance at the time.) Then biology took a backseat to travel. But recently I’ve figured out how to do both: go on a volunteer science trip.

Pre-pandemic, I joined Earthwatch expeditions in Andorra , where we hiked gorgeous mountains and gathered data to help researchers determine the effects of climate change on biodiversity. I got to connect with people and nature in a place I’d never been—and feel like I was making a difference. In 2020 many scientists couldn’t reach their study sites and lost an entire year’s worth of data. As soon as it’s safe to travel, I plan to get back out there with my inner geek. But I’ll probably leave the microphone at home.

How to get started:   You don’t need a science background to be a volunteer scientist (also called citizen scientist), just a willingness to learn and pitch in. Nonprofits such as Earthwatch and Biosphere Expeditions connect volunteers to research projects around the world, from bee conservation in Costa Rica to plastic pollution clean-up efforts in Bali . Citizen science hub SciStarter , founded by Nat Geo Fellow Darlene Cavalier, lists more than 3,000 projects. You can contribute to some without even leaving home . It’s great preparation for a future expedition. —Brooke Sabin

5. Shop more ethically

I used to be a fashion editor, which meant I essentially shopped for a living. The habit of browsing, buying, and just looking at what people in other places are purchasing, making, and wearing fascinates me—the Sahara sky-blue scarves nomads wrap around their heads in Morocco , the beachy flip flops on surfers in Hawaii , the finely wrought carpets on every hotel floor in Turkey . When travel starts up again, I know that my magpie gathering nature will, too. Now, I want to be sure anything I purchase is actually crafted or designed in that destination and that nobody was underpaid or overworked in the process.

How to get started: One of the best ways to be sure you shop ethically is to go straight to the source and meet the artisans whipping up those Peruvian blankets, Appalachian straw baskets, or Japanese paper lanterns. It’s even more meaningful if you learn a little about artisans’ work and lives by taking a short class.

A few years ago, I spent a day weaving and dyeing silk in Luang Prabang, Laos at Ock Pop Tock , a riverside collective where village women produce beautiful, fair-trade textiles. Later this year, I hope to try traditional Indian block printing in Jaipur or sign up for a three-to-five day mini apprenticeship via Vacation with an Artist , which hooks travelers up with Japanese calligraphers, Portuguese potters, and other traditional makers. —Jennifer Barger

6. Go on a heritage trip

My dad loves nothing more than to sing his favorite pop songs from when he was a teenager growing up in South Korea . During last year’s quarantine in Los Angeles , he put his karaoke machine to good use, cranking up the volume on soul-baring love songs and American-style rock-and-roll hits. Normally, during the holidays, this would be a highlight that I’d join. But like too many people last year, I wasn’t able to travel from Washington, D.C.   to see my family.

This year, hopes are high that a vaccine will enable all of us to get together on a trip—put on hold last year—to revisit the homeland. We’re adding one new thing to the itinerary: booking a noraebang (Korean for karaoke room) in my dad’s seaside hometown, Yeosu. Who knows, maybe I can convince him to get down with BTS .

How to get started: You can dig deeper into heritage tourism with these tips for learning about your family tree. When you’re ready to go, consider booking with places that specialize in roots journeys, such as My China Roots and Spector Travel . These companies can enrich the experience by connecting you with local historians, tracking down long-lost relatives, and helping to navigate tricky situations where records are sparse and language is a barrier. —Anne Kim-Dannibale

7. Tour your own backyard

Despite having lived in Washington, D.C. for nearly a decade, I’ve hardly scratched the surface of the beautiful natural spaces that lie inside—and just outside of—the city. In the last few years, I’ve been able to check a couple District spots off my list, including Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and the National Arboretum . Now that I have a car (and a dog!) I’d like to take advantage of some of the gems located just a stone’s throw from the nation’s capital in Maryland, Virginia, and beyond.

How to get started: I’ve primarily relied on word of mouth to learn about nearby places to visit, such as Huntley Meadows Park in Virginia and Cedarville State Forest in Maryland. Online communities like Reddit and All Trails are immensely helpful, while local guide books are full of inspiration. I was given one that covers much of the D.C. region, which I know I’ll be using for years to come. Wherever you go, be sure to follow these useful tips for staying safe on day hikes. —Nathan Strauss

8. Broaden your reading horizons

Throughout a homebound 2020, books were my passport, granting me virtual entry to places ranging from Iran (Yasmin Crowther's The Saffron Kitchen )   to Russia ’s Kamchatka Peninsula (Julia Phillips’ Disappearing Earth ). But mostly the books have been by authors writing in English. This is a bit like only eating Americanized versions of Chinese or Mexican food. In 2021, I resolve to diversify my reading menu with authors writing in their native language about the world’s wonders. Even if I can only read these stories in translation, fresh viewpoints brighten a new year.

How to get started:   Email or call the knowledgeable booksellers at your local indie bookstore for their recommendations of great travel-inspiring works in translation or in foreign languages. TripFiction matches locations with books set in that place. But don’t stop at earthly destinations: these science-fiction titles explore otherworldly realms. —Amy Alipio

9. Go virtual—and reduce your carbon footprint

Museums are windows into new places. The artifacts and works in the building represent movements and histories. But the curation and presentation speak to where those spaces are rooted. “Museums are as much a reflection of the time in which they’re built as they are of the time they represent,” one woman told me, pre-pandemic, while we stood in line to enter D.C.’s National Museum of African American History and Culture .

Margot Pepple picks flowers on the banks of Clear Lake

Margot Pepple picks flowers on the banks of Clear Lake, Indiana, on July 4, 2019. A new year offers the chance to cherish small moments with family.

A spiderweb on a statue.

A spiderweb catches the sun’s rays on a statue in Èze, France. Exploring locally can open your eyes to nature’s wonder.

Over the past few months, I’ve thought about her words often. They’ve encouraged me to continue my appreciation of the arts, even if I can’t visit a site in person. With so many institutions providing digital ways to connect with their programming, I can dip into a new place across the country or the globe after work on a Tuesday—while minimizing my carbon footprint.

How to get started:   Choose a place you’d like to spend a day in and then sign up to receive newsletters from organizations in that destination. That’s how I stay up to date on the Museum of Modern Art’s Virtual Views program and author talks at the storied Southern bookstore Square Books . You can learn about specific collections at the Google Arts & Culture partnership , which offers a closer look at museums around the world, including South Korea’s National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art . —Maura Friedman

10. Help kids become explorers

Because of the pandemic, I had to cancel several trips last year, including an annual family excursion to New York City , where we visit relatives, eat dim sum, and enjoy Central Park. The only trip we were able to take was to Sandbridge Beach, in southeastern Virginia . There, amid all the chaos and noise that was 2020, I found myself at peace. I concentrated on small moments, like finding sand crabs with my kids, watching dolphins at dawn, and surfing or standup paddleboarding in the ocean. Suddenly, these familiar activities had greater value. For me, travel in 2021 will be informed by accomplishing a similar goal.

How to get started: Evaluate what inspires you and your family to travel, then build trips around those themes. Make the most of shared experiences by booking a specialty tour, such as Equitours for horse lovers and Go Native Tours for history buffs looking for different perspectives. That way, you can focus on spending time together. —Brendan McCabe

11. Learn a new skill

Watching my mother slowly lose her hearing over the past 30 years, I’ve seen how isolating it can be to adjust to life without one of your senses. Movies, TV, and social media videos without subtitles are just pantomime. Dinner parties are reduced to an indistinguishable din. Not hearing a question or an “excuse me” in the grocery store suddenly turns you into an inconsiderate jerk.

My mother never learned American Sign Language, but her frustrations have encouraged me to learn as I, too, lose my hearing. I’m lucky to live in Washington, D.C., the home of Gallaudet University and a strong community of deaf people. I hope to take advantage of all the unique resources here not only to learn ASL, but also the rich culture and history that go along with it.

( Learn how monks helped invent sign language . )

How to get started: Follow deaf and hard of hearing people on social media. There are many Youtube channels, such as Sign Duo and Bill Vicars . On Instagram, I follow Deafies in Drag and Gallaudet’s ASL Connect , a great resource that offers free instruction videos for beginners. Those who want to learn on the go can try The ASL App, which is divided into units organized by themes, such as the alphabet, family signs, and more. Deaf-owned businesses like Streetcar 82 Brewing Company, in Hyattsville, Maryland , offer a fun way to take a spin. —Rebekah Barlas

12. Focus on family travel

As the mother to two wee kids, travel has taken on a new dynamic with all the baggage (quite literally) required. Boarding an airplane with the car seats and pack ’n plays that one child needed was an event for me and my wife. When our second child was born last March, it was almost a relief not to have to plan our first flight as a family of four. From that perspective, the smaller radius of pandemic travel has been an eye-opening experience for me.

I’ve come to appreciate and enjoy discovering all of the hidden gems within an hour’s drive or so from our home in Washington, D.C. I had visited the mountains of Shenandoah National Park and the shores of Delaware ’s beaches before, but there are so many unique hikes, towns, and cultural attractions in between. Plus, seeing the world through the eyes of a 3-year-old makes you appreciate the simple things in life, like just how many different fungi you can identify on a walk in Rock Creek Park .

How to get started: Our family is definitely embracing the friluftsliv   mentality. We’ve equipped our small backyard with a fire pit and lots of warm blankets to make spending time outdoors in colder months more comfortable. We’re also taking advantage of all the virtual offerings at museums and zoos. Who knew that watching the National Zoo’s Panda Cam is almost as entertaining as seeing the new baby giant panda in person? For the trips we do take further away, we’ve learned to book early and embrace the less-visited parts of our region. —Rosemary Wardley

Related Topics

  • SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
  • NATIONAL PARKS
  • FAMILY TRAVEL
  • CULTURAL TOURISM
  • DISABLED PEOPLE

You May Also Like

sustainable travel methods

They inspire us and teach us about the world: Meet our 2024 Travelers of the Year

sustainable travel methods

10 of the best UK destinations for spring travel

Limited time offer.

Get a FREE tote featuring 1 of 7 ICONIC PLACES OF THE WORLD

sustainable travel methods

Rights on Flights: the new campaign seeking to make air travel more accessible

sustainable travel methods

5 ways to make travel more meaningful in 2023

sustainable travel methods

25 breathtaking places and experiences for 2023

sustainable travel methods

Family travel: seven of the best new digital immersive experiences in the UK

sustainable travel methods

4 ways families can become happier travelers—according to researchers

  • Environment

History & Culture

  • History & Culture
  • History Magazine
  • Mind, Body, Wonder
  • The Big Idea
  • Paid Content
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • About Nielsen Measurement
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Nat Geo Home
  • Attend a Live Event
  • Book a Trip
  • Inspire Your Kids
  • Shop Nat Geo
  • Visit the D.C. Museum
  • Learn About Our Impact
  • Support Our Mission
  • Advertise With Us
  • Customer Service
  • Renew Subscription
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Work at Nat Geo
  • Sign Up for Our Newsletters
  • Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

8 sustainable travel tips from expert green travelers

Caroline Lascom

Editor's Note

If you've recently taken a bucket-list trip or visited an iconic city, you know the need for sustainable tourism has never been more pressing.

Beloved destinations — including Bora Bora, the Maldives , Barcelona and Venice, Italy, among others — are facing existential challenges, either from climate change or sheer overcrowding.

However, it's one thing to recognize the importance of eco-friendly tourism; it's another to put principles into practice.

There's no doubt the travel industry has played a part in creating economic stability and driving positive growth in locations across the globe, but the downsides are clear. Overcrowding, environmental damage and a strain on resources are just a few ways an increase in tourism can have a harmful impact on a destination.

As a result, many locales are taking significant steps to reverse course in order to save their fragile ecosystems before it's too late. From bans on megaships and vacation rentals to strict visitor limitations, governments worldwide are taking drastic measures.

At TPG, we know travel is an essential part of life and overall a great experience — one we never want to give up. That has become even more true in recent years as we've all dealt with extended periods of time when we could not travel due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Related: Updated: A country-by-country guide to coronavirus reopenings

However, we should not (and cannot) let traveling be an occasion or excuse for us to disregard concerns for our planet. It's vital that we do our part to be more mindful about the decisions we make when we travel.

To help you minimize your impact on the planet when you travel, we've asked experts at TPG and Red Ventures sister sites Lonely Planet , Platea and Elsewhere , plus experts at the United Nations Environmental Program, to weigh in on what you can do to be an eco-conscious traveler. Here are eight strategies they suggest to make your next trip more sustainable.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Explore under-the-radar locations

sustainable travel methods

Overtourism is one of the biggest threats facing the travel industry. About 80% of all travelers visit the same five to 10 spots in each country, according to data from the World Economic Forum .

During peak season, popular cities experience as much as a 70% population increase, resulting in strains on everything from infrastructure to the environment.

"A low-season visit can help offset the boom and bust cycle many destinations endure, and it'll give you a more solitary, intimate look at the place itself," shared Alexander Howard, managing editor at Lonely Planet.

To avoid adding to overtourism concerns, travelers can get creative when deciding where to go next.

"Skip Machu Picchu and opt for Choquequirao — these Incan ruins only draw 20 visitors per day," said Alexis Bowen, founder of sustainable travel startup Elsewhere and CEO at Lonely Planet.

Or, consider a trip to a smaller European destination instead of one on everyone's bucket list. Oftentimes, the experience will prove far more authentic and memorable than what you'd experience in tourism hot spots like Paris and London .

"Last month, I took a weekend trip to Procida, a small fishing island off the coast of Naples ... far from the bling of Italy 's Amalfi Coast," Bowen said. "We were told about an 'agriturismo' [a sustainable farm] with incredible food on the neighboring island of Ischia, so we hopped on a ferry to check it out. ... When the food started coming, it was whatever Giuseppe [the owner] was cooking that day using ingredients from his farm. The food was simple but delicious ... and this moment was our definition of pure luxury."

Related: From theme parks to power plants, why Denmark is our sustainable destination of 2022

Choose every aspect of your itinerary wisely

sustainable travel methods

"Ethical travel is also about being mindful of what you consume on the road," said Sarah Reid, Lonely Planet writer and sustainable travel expert. "This includes everything from the food you eat to the activities you sign up for. Ideally, you should opt for experiences that have a low environmental footprint, such as kayaking instead of Jet Skiing, and have a positive impact on the local community."

Being eco-friendly doesn't mean you have to severely restrict what you do, though. Enlist the expertise of an adventure company that combines thrilling experiences with environmental preservation. Award-winning travel outfitter ROW Adventures, for example, offers an array of low-impact adventures worldwide, including sailing excursions in Croatia; kayaking outings in La Paz , Mexico; and hiking trips in Peru and Corsica , France.

Also consider destinations that foster ethical tourist consumption like Puerto Rico . By embracing sustainable farming techniques and highlighting local businesses and tour operators after Hurricane Maria's devastating impact on the island in 2017 exposed its over-reliance on mainland exports, Puerto Rico has emerged as a top spot for sustainability in the U.S.

Puerto Rico offers "so many ways to give back to the community" through sustainable businesses like bed-and-breakfast accommodations and shops, shared Adriana Serrano, brand manager for San Juan-based travel website Platea. You'll also find many farm-to-table options where locally sourced ingredients are on the menu, helping cut down on greenhouse gases while improving the overall quality of what you're eating.

Embrace slow travel

sustainable travel methods

When Greta Thunberg stopped flying as part of her crusade against climate change in 2015, she triggered a surge of interest in train travel , as well as the adoption of a couple of catchy Swedish concepts: "tagskryt" (train-bragging) and "flygskam" (flight shame).

Sebastian Modak, Lonely Planet's editor-at-large, advises travelers to avoid thinking faster means better. "Slowing down can be better for the planet, and it will also allow you to really soak in every sensation and experience instead of rushing through a checklist," he said.

Train travel is essential to the art of slow travel. It allows you to connect with off-the-beaten-path towns and cities that you'd normally miss if you flew a direct route. Plus, it has a smaller carbon footprint than other modes of transportation.

"As part of the UN's sustainable travel agenda, we recommend all journeys of less than 600 kilometers (or 373 miles) be taken by train," United Nations Environmental Program officer Helena Rey de Assis told TPG.

But don't assume that traveling by train means you have to sacrifice on comfort.

"You can still travel in style and lower your impact," Rey de Assis said. "There have been massive rail investments in luxurious services, especially in Sweden, Italy and Austria ."

By allotting a little more time for the journey, you'll discover more charm and character than what you may find in more common transit hubs, all while lessening your impact on the environment.

Reduce your carbon dioxide emissions

sustainable travel methods

Of all the ways you can get from point A to point B, traveling by air is by far the most harmful to the planet.

The airline industry is responsible for roughly 3% of global industry emissions, according to the World Economic Forum. However, its convenience makes it a transportation option that won't fall out of favor any time soon. So, to reduce the environmental harm flights cause, experts are increasingly encouraging travelers to offset their carbon footprint.

Carbon offsetting involves donating money to environmental projects around the world to make up for your carbon output. But does paying to offset greenhouse gasses emitted during air travel merely enable people to continue choosing less sustainable options?

"There's some truth to that," said Katie Genter, a senior writer at TPG. "But if you're going to fly, offsetting your carbon emissions is better than doing nothing."

Know, though, that not every organization that says it offsets carbon emissions is created equal.

"You'll find many companies and organizations willing to take your money, but not all of these companies provide high-quality carbon offsets," Genter explained. "One of the easiest ways to donate ... is to choose a project listed on Green-e Climate or Climate Action Reserve, or donate directly to a project through Gold Standard."

You can also make strategic choices about routes, aircraft and airplane cabins that will lessen your impact. Since takeoffs and landings consume considerably more fuel than the rest of the journey, travel by the most direct route when possible. Remember, too, that traveling in premium cabins (like business or first class) will increase your carbon footprint.

Give back to the local community

sustainable travel methods

Around 80% of low-income countries rely on tourism revenue, yet 90% of tourism dollars earned are pocketed by foreign-owned businesses, according to a Brookings Institute report .

As a result, a considerable amount of money coming from tourism does not end up going back into the local economy , which is essential to supporting local communities and ensuring their cultures, traditions and more can thrive for generations to come.

"Traveling responsibly and supporting the local economy means different things to different travelers," said Daniel Fahey, a Lonely Planet guidebook author and editor. "This might mean choosing a family-owned lodge instead of a chain hotel, dining in a restaurant that sources its produce locally or taking a paddle boarding trip with a local guide."

Wherever you travel, look for opportunities to make a difference through volunteer opportunities, wildlife rescue programs and beach cleanup events. Hands-on experiences in destinations across the globe (including Alaska , South Africa , Thailand and Bhutan) are easy to find through travel companies like Discover Corps, which specializes in grassroots, off-the-beaten-path travel.

For example, voluntourism trips in Costa Rica may include stays at high-end ecolodges and monitoring wildlife along key biological corridors in the rainforest.

Pick accommodations with good environmental credentials

sustainable travel methods

You don't have to be a backpacker who camps every place they visit to be an eco-conscious traveler .

In recent years, there's been a spike in interest for quality eco-friendly lodging that marries environmental consciousness with style and comfort. In fact, 81% of travelers plan on looking for sustainable accommodations in the next year (up from 62% in 2016), according to Booking.com's 2021 Sustainable Travel Report .

TPG writer Lori Zaino is one of those travelers.

"I consider many things beyond just if the hotel recycles or has ditched single-use amenities," Zaino said. "Sustainable tourism is also about supporting the local community whenever possible, so whenever I can, I stay with Fairbnb, a vacation rental website that gives 50% of its proceeds back to a community project local to my destination. I like to support family-owned hotels, too, especially in places overrun with large hotels."

Related: The Brando: A sustainability leader in the hotel industry

Be a responsible wildlife tourist

sustainable travel methods

Any time you are offered the chance to ride an animal, take a selfie with one or participate in any kind of animal "show," odds are the creature's welfare is not front and center.

TPG contributor Melanie Haiken advises travelers to "see wildlife in the wild or in highly rated sanctuaries that take only animals that can't be returned to the wild. While there are ethical private animal rescue facilities and preserves, there are also many (like the one exposed in the 'Tiger King' documentary) where animals are treated poorly or obtained by underhanded means. Many operations also stress the animals by not giving them enough space and privacy and allowing too much visitor contact. This goes for sea life, too — there is no dolphin that likes to be ridden!"

Several options are available if you wish to see wildlife in a thrilling yet humane way. Tour operator G Adventures works with World Animal Protection and the Jane Goodall Institute to design ethical wildlife-focused experiences for travelers. Additionally, there's small-group tour company Intrepid Travel, which is renowned for its commitment to sustainable travel, as evidenced by its decision in 2014 to remove elephant rides from its tours before other major international travel providers.

Eliminate single-use plastics

sustainable travel methods

In many destinations, the sight of plastic bottles strewn across beaches , parks and waterways has become disturbingly common. Plastic waste is a major health hazard for living organisms, particularly marine life. Billions of tonnes of plastics made from 1950 to 2017 are discarded, and of that waste, roughly 75% ends up in landfills or ecosystems like rivers, forests and oceans, according to reporting by The Guardian .

"The pandemic has exacerbated problems with single-use plastics and disposable masks," Rey de Assis said. "With smaller island nations that don't have effective waste management systems, it becomes a plastic storm. In the Mediterranean Sea, 40% of waste can be attributed to tourism."

Following the sustainable trifecta (reduce, reuse and recycle) can dramatically help preserve the environment. Miniature shampoo, conditioner and lotion bottles are a major source of plastic waste and are especially problematic for small island nations.

Lonely Planet's senior news editor, Melissa Yeager, avoids using travel-size bottles whenever possible. "Reuse/refill previous containers or look around your house and repurpose things like contact lens cases or other small containers and fill them," she said.

Hotel groups, including Marriott and IHG , have already switched to single-use refillable toiletry bottles, and other brands look set to follow suit. Some destinations like Hawaii are even aiming to eliminate them completely.

Whenever possible, try to refill and bring along your own travel-size containers. If you must use small containers provided by the hotel, always save what's left for your next trip.

Related: What is the Malama Hawaii program — and why is it a model for the tourism industry?

Bottom line

As travelers and frequent flyers, we need to strike a balance between reducing our carbon footprint and supporting destinations that rely on tourism. Sustainability begins when you choose your destination and consider who is going to benefit from your tourism dollars.

By committing to being more mindful of how we travel and visiting places where fragile ecosystems are cared for and local communities are supported, we can all help preserve our beautiful planet.

Explore the world, sustainably

We travel to satisfy our curiosity. To discover something new and make connections. Our travel experiences are essential to who we are.

TRAVEL IMPACTS OUR CLIMATE

It’s time to think about how our travel impacts the world around us

Greenhouse gas emissions, sometimes called carbon emissions or CO2e (carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas equivalents), include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and others.

From Nature

From Nature and IEA

CLIMATE-FRIENDLY CHOICES

The way we plan our travel has the power to make a change

sustainable travel methods

COLLECTIVE ACTION

50% of travelers are making more climate-friendly travel choices

From Booking.com

Our travel choices, together with changes in the industry, help build a climate-friendly future

bulb icon

Flying for two hours instead of six saves about 65% emissions per passenger

Emissions are calculated per passenger. So the more passengers a flight has, the smaller each passenger’s share of the flight’s emissions.

  • Where to go
  • How to get there
  • Where to stay

Choose where to go

CLIMATE-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS

sustainable travel methods

Explore nearby

sustainable travel methods

Local adventures

Explore what’s around you. Visit a local museum or park you’ve never been to.

sustainable travel methods

Nearby trips

When planning your next trip, consider traveling shorter distances. Explore a neighboring city, state, or country.

sustainable travel methods

Further away

When visiting somewhere further away, travel direct or go less often to reduce your travel time

Choose how to get there

CLIMATE-FRIENDLY TRANSPORT

sustainable travel methods

Alternatives to flying

sustainable travel methods

When burning fuel, planes produce carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas equivalents (CO2e). Flying less, or not at all, means you avoid these emissions. This reduces the impact that your travel has on the environment.

Catch a train or bus

Short-haul flights are especially inefficient. Consider replacing shorter flights with a train or bus ride. Over a similar distance, trains and buses produce less emissions than planes because they burn less fuel. Electric trains or buses that use carbon-free energy sources are especially climate-friendly because they don’t burn fossil fuels.

Take a road trip

Compared to taking a bus, driving causes more emissions per person because a car carries fewer passengers. Even so, driving with passengers is a more climate-friendly travel choice than flying.

Train

4 kg CO2e 4 kg CO 2 e CO2e stands for “carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas equivalents”. CO2e is a unit of measurement for emissions. It bundles together the impact of all applicable greenhouse gases and non-CO2 effects. × Per passenger traveling 100 km

Train travel pollutes less than driving or flying

19 kg CO2e 19 kg CO 2 e Per passenger traveling 100 km

Car travel pollutes more than train travel, and less than flying

25 kg CO2e 25 kg CO 2 e Per passenger traveling 100 km

Flying pollutes more than train and car travel

From Our World in Data

The less fuel a transport mode burns and the more passengers it carries, the lower its environmental impact per passenger

Compare flight options

When traveling further away, it’s not always possible to avoid flying. but, consider which flights you take – some flights pollute less than others..

Choose Economy

Consider fuel efficiency

Contribute to the climate

Compare emissions for flights

Distance flying shorter distances typically burns less fuel, reducing the flight’s emissions ×, stops making fewer stops typically burns less fuel, reducing the flight’s emissions ×, cabin class the less space your seat takes up, the lower “your share” of the flight’s emissions ×.

Emissions are measured in CO2. CO2 stands for carbon dioxide. Emissions values are representative and do not reflect exact itineraries. Learn more about how emissions are estimated

Tree and electricity conversions from: EPA .

  • Electricity

Aircraft features that affect emissions

Aircraft efficiency

Modern planes are more fuel-efficient than older models. Improved fuel-efficiency reduces a flight’s emissions.

Seating density

Seating density varies by plane type and airline. The more seats a plane has, the lower each passenger’s share of the flight’s emissions.

A CLIMATE-FRIENDLY FUTURE

In addition to the choices we make, many travel companies are committing to climate-friendly practices

sustainable travel methods

As train providers invest in new rail infrastructure, expand their routes, or commit to using carbon-free energy, climate-friendly travel becomes easier.

sustainable travel methods

Airlines continue to invest in fuel-efficient aircraft or efficient seating configurations to lower their environmental impact. Some donate to projects that remove carbon dioxide from the air, while others invest in sustainable aviation fuel research.

sustainable travel methods

Travel providers

More and more accommodations and online travel agencies are committing to climate-friendly practices. You can usually find their pledges online.

Choose where to stay

CLIMATE-FRIENDLY PLACES TO STAY

sustainable travel methods

SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES

sustainable travel methods

Sustainability practices & eco certifications

Accommodations identify these practices as opportunities to reduce their environmental impact, energy efficiency.

sustainable travel methods

Water conservation

Waste reduction.

sustainable travel methods

Sustainable sourcing

Recognized eco certifications.

Accommodations can also gain eco certifications. To be recognized as eco-certified on Google, certifications must be verified by independent organizations.

Google logo

How is Google helping?

SUSTAINABLE WITH GOOGLE

sustainable travel methods

INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTIONS

CLIMATE-CONSCIOUS TRAVEL

GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY STANDARDS

Logo

Home Blog Holiday Travel Methods, Ranked from Most to Least Eco-Friendly

Holiday travel methods, ranked from most to least eco-friendly.

Planning your holiday travel? We ranked the most popular methods (airplane, bus, car, ride-sharing, and train) in terms of sustainability.

sustainable travel methods

Our Methodology

Holiday travel methods, ranked.

holiday travel sustainability

3. Ride-Sharing and Ride-Hailing (Using Lyft or Uber)

holiday travel sustainability

5. Airplane

holiday travel sustainability

The Top Takeaway for Holiday Travelers

holiday travel sustainability

Greener Ideal

Sustainable Travel Trends: How to Explore the World While Protecting It

Luke Rooks

We may collect a share of sales from items linked to on this page. Learn more .

Imagine a world where every traveler leaves a positive impact on the places they visit. Where we can explore our planet’s wonders without harming it. This is the future of sustainable travel.

Sustainable travel is about more than just reducing your carbon footprint. It’s about being mindful of your impact on the environment, local communities, and cultures . It’s choosing to travel in ways that support responsible tourism and sustainable development.

In this article, we’ll explore the latest sustainable travel trends and show you how to explore the world while protecting it. From choosing eco-friendly accommodations to supporting local businesses, there are many ways to travel more sustainably.

Let’s dive right in.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations

sustainable travel trends - accomondation

The first step to a sustainable adventure comes down to where you choose to stay. Gone are the days when eco-conscious travelers had to choose between roughing it in a tent or staying at a luxury resort that isn’t exactly earth-friendly.

Today, you can find a wide array of eco-friendly accommodations that combine comfort with sustainability . From treehouse hotels perched in lush forests to cozy, solar-powered cabins overlooking pristine lakes, there’s an option for every type of adventurous traveler.

Slow and Mindful Travel

Today’s sustainable adventurers embrace the philosophy of “slow travel.” It’s all about taking your time to savor every moment and minimize your environmental impact. Whether you’re hiking through rugged terrains or exploring quaint villages, this approach allows you to immerse yourself in local cultures and truly appreciate the beauty of your surroundings . 

Slow travel encourages you to tread lightly on the planet while forging meaningful connections with people and nature.

Sustainable Transportation

Getting from one breathtaking destination to another doesn’t have to compromise your commitment to sustainability. Green travel is on the rise, and eco-friendly transportation options have become more accessible. 

Electric bike tours, carpooling, and even electric camper vans are all the rage. These modes of transportation reduce your carbon footprint and offer unique opportunities to explore the world at a slower, more intimate pace.

There’s more: EVs are becoming the responsible choice when hitting the road for a travel adventure. With expanding charging networks, they offer reliability and convenience. Beyond preserving the environment, EVs save on fuel costs, making them cost-effective for long journeys.  Learn How to Plan an Epic Electric Car Road Trip here.

Culinary Adventures with a Twist

sustainable food tourism

For many travelers, food is an essential part of the adventure. Sustainable food tourism is a growing trend , allowing eco-conscious explorers to taste local delicacies while supporting environmentally friendly practices. 

From farm-to-table experiences to foraging tours led by expert guides, sustainable foodies have endless options. 

Plus, you can even join local communities in cooking classes or help harvest fresh produce. It’s a mouthwatering way to dive deep into the culture of your destination while promoting sustainability.

Giving Back with Responsible Tourism

Sustainable travel isn’t just about what you take; it’s also about what you give back to the places you visit. Responsible tourism practices have become a fundamental part of every eco-adventurer’s journey. 

Engaging with local communities and participating in volunteer activities or conservation efforts allows you to leave a positive mark. By supporting local artisans, learning about the culture, and contributing to conservation initiatives, you’ll make your travel experience even more meaningful.

Pack Light and Smart

With sustainable travel, what you pack—and what you leave behind—matters. Minimalism is key, and packing light makes your adventures more manageable and reduces your environmental footprint. 

Opt for eco-friendly travel gear, like reusable water bottles, solar chargers, and versatile clothing that can adapt to various weather conditions. Plus, it’s always a good idea to bring your reusable shopping bag and cutlery to minimize waste and reduce single-use plastic consumption.

Go Off the Beaten Path

sustainable travel destinations

Traditional tourist hotspots are often overrun and suffer from the environmental strain caused by massive visitor numbers. Sustainable travelers have turned to uncharted territories, seeking hidden gems that offer unique experiences and remain untouched by mass tourism. 

Off-the-beaten-path destinations are more sustainable because they’re less frequented, which helps preserve their natural beauty and cultural authenticity.

Consider Bhutan, a Himalayan kingdom with stunning landscapes and a strong focus on sustainability. Or explore Madagascar, known for its biodiversity and otherworldly landscapes. Albania, in the Balkans, boasts pristine beaches and historical sites. 

Head to the Faroe Islands for dramatic cliffs and remote villages. Namibia’s desert landscapes are otherworldly, and the Far North of Sweden offers the Northern Lights without the crowds. 

These destinations provide adventurous travelers with unforgettable experiences far from the tourist masses.

Sustainable Adventures for Everyone

You might think that sustainable travel is exclusively for rugged backpackers or seasoned environmentalists, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. 

Sustainable adventures are accessible to everyone, from families with young children to solo travelers looking for a unique experience. Many travel agencies and tour operators now focus on eco-friendly trips, ensuring that the less adventurous can embark on sustainable journeys with ease.

The Future of Sustainable Travel

virtual reality tours

As technology advances, eco-conscious travelers can look forward to even more efficient, sustainable, and innovative options. From electric planes to cutting-edge eco-accommodations, the possibilities are endless.

Emerging trends and advancements are already reshaping the way we explore the world while treading lightly on the planet.

1. Electric Aviation: Electric aircraft are on the horizon, with companies like Boeing and Airbus developing electric propulsion systems for short-haul flights. This technology could significantly reduce aviation emissions and noise pollution.

2. Hydrogen-Powered Transportation: Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are gaining traction, offering longer ranges and quicker refueling times compared to traditional electric cars. Hyundai’s NEXO is a prime example, emitting only water vapor.

3. Sustainable Accommodations: Smart hotels and resorts are incorporating cutting-edge energy management systems, IoT technology, and renewable energy sources, ensuring eco-friendliness without compromising guest comfort.

4. Green Mobility Apps: Advanced mobility apps provide travelers with real-time information on eco-friendly transportation options, making it easier to choose low-emission options, from electric bikes to shared electric scooters.

5. Virtual Reality Tourism : Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) will enable immersive, eco-conscious travel experiences without physical travel, reducing the environmental footprint.

As these technologies mature, travelers will have a wealth of options to explore the world while minimizing their impact on the environment.

As we conclude our exploration of sustainable travel trends, remember this: every adventure you embark on is an opportunity to leave a positive legacy. By choosing eco-friendly accommodations, slow travel, responsible tourism, and embracing sustainable technologies, you’re preserving the planet for this and future generations. 

Every footprint you leave should tell a story of responsibility, connection, and the enduring beauty of our shared planet.

Luke Rooks

Luke is a passionate environmental advocate based in upstate New York. When he's not sharing tips on sustainability and wellness, you can find him hiking with his dog, Max.

View all posts

What do you think? Leave a comment! Cancel reply

energy-efficiency hacks

How Energy-Efficient is Your Home? Simple Hacks to Maximize Appliance Efficiency

reduce household waste

How to Slash Your Household Waste in Half in 2024

sustainable flower bouquets

Buying Flowers as a Gift? Choose Bouquets That Are Sustainably Grown

Popular today.

Honda EV Urban concept car

Honda and Nissan Partner to Accelerate Electric Vehicle Development

air quality in cities

How to Improve Air Quality in Urban Environments

solar energy trends 2024

Solar Energy Trends to Watch in 2024

greener ideal

Greener Ideal helps you live in more sustainable ways with green living tips, commentary on the latest environment news, green product reviews, healthy recipes, and more.

We strive to protect the planet and reduce our collective carbon footprint.

a woman cooking indian food

Why Decreasing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the Kitchen May Come Down to Evaluating the Thermodynamic Properties of Your Cookware

sustainable dairy alternatives

Lactose-Free, Sustainable, and Delicious Dairy Alternatives

yellow capsules on blue surface

Sustainable Sources of Omega-3 Are Needed as Demand Soars 

air quality in cities

How Do Green Spaces Reduce Carbon Emissions?

© Copyright 2024 - Greener Ideal

GreenTourism

Hand-Picked Top-Read Stories

Vision Zero

Vision Zero: A Comprehensive Guide

  • Environment
  • Transportation

Advantages of Public Transport

Advantages of Public Transport: 20 Reasons to Make the Shift Today

  • Planet earth

CNG Fuel

CNG Fuel: A Comprehensive Guide

Trending tags.

  • Zoning Laws
  • Zero-waste living
  • zero-waste kitchen
  • workplace safety
  • workplace charging
  • WineTasting
  • Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable Tourism Practices and Destinations: Examples from Around the World

' src=

Sustainable Tourism Practices: Sustainable tourism is a growing trend in the travel industry that focuses on minimizing the environmental and social impact of tourism while providing economic benefits to local communities. From eco-friendly accommodations to responsible travel practices, there are many ways that tourism can be made more sustainable. Around the world, destinations and businesses are implementing sustainable tourismthat support conservation, reduce carbon emissions, and promote local cultural heritage. These efforts not only benefit the planet, but also provide a unique and authentic travel experience for visitors. In this context, we will explore some of the sustainable tourism and destinations from around the world that are leading the way in promoting responsible and ethical tourism.

Here are 40 examples of sustainable tourism and destinations from around the world:

  • The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador – A protected wildlife sanctuary that limits visitor numbers to prevent environmental damage and promote sustainable tourism.
  • Costa Rica – A country that has made a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, with a focus on eco-tourism, community-based tourism, and conservation efforts.
  • Bhutan – A country that measures its economic success through a Gross National Happiness index, which includes the protection of the environment and cultural heritage.
  • Norway – A country that is known for its sustainable tourism, including eco-friendly transportation, green energy, and sustainable tourism certification programs.
  • The Netherlands – A country that is promoting sustainable tourism through initiatives such as green hotels, bike-friendly cities, and nature conservation programs.
  • New Zealand – A country that has a strong focus on sustainable tourism, including eco-tourism, conservation efforts, and responsible travel practices.
  • The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil – A region that has adopted sustainable tourism to promote conservation and support local communities.
  • The Great Barrier Reef, Australia – A protected marine park that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and protecting the natural environment.
  • Kenya – A country that has implemented sustainable tourism, including wildlife conservation, community-based tourism, and eco-friendly lodges.
  • Iceland – A country that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-friendly transportation, renewable energy, and eco-certification programs.
  • South Africa – A country that is known for its conservation efforts, including wildlife protection and community-based tourism.
  • The Azores, Portugal – A group of islands that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, whale watching, and nature conservation programs.
  • The Serengeti, Tanzania – A protected wildlife sanctuary that promotes responsible tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Cook Islands, Pacific Ocean – A group of islands that is committed to sustainable tourism, including protecting the environment and supporting local communities.
  • Thailand – A country that has implemented sustainable practices, including community-based tourism, wildlife conservation, and responsible travel.
  • The Faroe Islands, Denmark – A group of islands that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-friendly transportation, sustainable seafood, and nature conservation programs.
  • The Lake District, England – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Annapurna Region, Nepal – A region that is promoting sustainable tourism through community-based tourism, conservation efforts, and responsible trekking practices.
  • The Maasai Mara, Kenya – A protected wildlife reserve that promotes sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Blue Mountains, Australia – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • Guna Yala, Panama – A protected indigenous territory that promotes sustainable tourism, such as supporting traditional livelihoods and preserving cultural heritage.
  • The Isle of Eigg, Scotland – An island that is promoting sustainable tourism through renewable energy, eco-friendly accommodations, and community-based tourism initiatives.
  • The San Blas Islands, Panama – A group of islands that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, community-based tourism, and responsible travel practices.
  • The Burren, Ireland – A protected national park that promotes sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Bay of Fundy, Canada – A protected marine park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Lofoten Islands, Norway – An archipelago that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-friendly transportation, responsible fishing, and community-based tourism initiatives.
  • The Tongariro National Park, New Zealand – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Danube Delta, Romania – A protected wetland that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism and responsible travel practices.
  • The Douro Valley, Portugal – A region that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, responsible wine tourism, and community-based tourism initiatives.
  • The Lake Titicaca, Peru/Bolivia – A protected lake that promotes sustainable tourism, such as preserving cultural heritage and supporting traditional livelihoods.
  • The Everglades, United States – A protected wetland that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Cinque Terre, Italy – A protected coastal area that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Mekong Delta, Vietnam – A region that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, responsible travel practices, and community-based tourism initiatives.
  • The Lake District, Chile – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Sinharaja Forest Reserve , Sri Lanka – A protected rainforest that promotes sustainable tourism, such as eco-tourism and responsible travel practices.
  • The Jasper National Park, Canada – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Arctic, various countries – A region that is promoting sustainable tourism through eco-tourism, responsible travel practices, and nature conservation programs.
  • The Torres del Paine National Park, Chile – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism, such as reducing carbon emissions and supporting local communities.
  • The Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal – A protected national park that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism and responsible trekking practices.
  • The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica – A protected cloud forest that promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism and nature conservation programs.

These are just a few more examples of the many destinations and businesses around the world that are adopting sustainable tourism. With a growing focus on responsible and ethical tourism, sustainable tourism is becoming an increasingly important industry worldwide.

Similar Articles

  • Green Hiking
  • How To Save Water
  • What is an Eco Lodge?

Frequently Asked Questions About Sustainable Tourism Practices

What is sustainable tourism?

Sustainable tourism is a form of tourism that focuses on minimizing the environmental and social impact of travel while providing economic benefits to local communities.

What are some sustainable tourism practices?

Some sustainable tourism practices include supporting conservation efforts, reducing carbon emissions, promoting local cultural heritage, and supporting local communities through community-based tourism initiatives.

Why is sustainable tourism important?

Sustainable tourism is important because it helps to preserve natural and cultural resources, provides economic benefits to local communities, and promotes responsible and ethical travel practices.

How can travelers practice sustainable tourism?

Travelers can practice sustainable tourism by supporting eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in responsible travel practices, supporting local communities, and minimizing their carbon footprint.

What are some examples of sustainable tourism destinations?

Some examples of sustainable tourism destinations include national parks, protected areas, eco-tourism lodges, and community-based tourism initiatives.

How can tourism businesses implement sustainable tourism practices?

Tourism businesses can implement sustainable practices by reducing their carbon emissions, supporting local communities, promoting conservation efforts, and adopting eco-friendly practices.

What is community-based tourism?

Community-based tourism is a form of tourism that involves local communities in the tourism industry, providing economic benefits while preserving local culture and traditions.

What is responsible tourism?

Responsible tourism is a form of tourism that focuses on minimizing the environmental and social impact of travel while providing economic benefits to local communities and promoting cultural awareness.

What is the difference between sustainable tourism and ecotourism?

Sustainable tourism is a broader concept that encompasses all forms of tourism that are socially, economically, and environmentally responsible, while ecotourism is a specific form of tourism that focuses on nature-based experiences that support conservation efforts.

How does sustainable tourism benefit local communities?

Sustainable tourism benefits local communities by providing economic benefits through job creation and supporting local businesses, while also preserving cultural heritage and traditions.

How can tourists ensure they are practicing sustainable tourism?

Tourists can ensure they are practicing sustainable tourism by choosing eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in responsible travel practices, supporting local communities, and minimizing their carbon footprint.

What role do governments play in promoting sustainable tourism?

Governments play an important role in promoting sustainable tourism by establishing policies and regulations that support conservation efforts, promoting sustainable practices, and providing funding for sustainable tourism initiatives.

What are some challenges to implementing sustainable tourism practices?

Some challenges to implementing sustainable tourism practices include the high cost of implementing eco-friendly practices, lack of awareness among tourists, and limited resources in developing countries.

What is the role of tourism businesses in promoting sustainable tourism?

Tourism businesses play a critical role in promoting sustainable tourism by adopting eco-friendly practices, supporting conservation efforts, and engaging with local communities to ensure their economic benefits are sustainable.

What is the impact of sustainable tourism on the environment?

Sustainable tourism aims to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment by reducing carbon emissions, supporting conservation efforts, and promoting eco-friendly practices. This can have a positive impact on the environment by preserving natural resources and reducing pollution.

What is the role of tourists in promoting sustainable tourism?

Tourists have a crucial role to play in promoting sustainable tourism by supporting eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in responsible travel practices, supporting local communities, and minimizing their carbon footprint.

What is the role of local communities in sustainable tourism?

Local communities play a vital role in sustainable tourism by providing unique cultural experiences, supporting conservation efforts, and benefitting from the economic opportunities that tourism can bring. Sustainable tourism initiatives often involve working with local communities to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met.

How can sustainable tourism help preserve cultural heritage?

Sustainable tourism can help preserve cultural heritage by supporting local cultural practices and traditions, promoting cultural awareness, and providing economic benefits to local communities. In doing so, it helps to maintain and celebrate cultural diversity and promote the value of cultural heritage.

What is the impact of sustainable tourism on the economy?

Sustainable tourism can have a positive impact on the economy by providing job opportunities, supporting local businesses, and promoting economic growth in tourism-dependent communities. It can also encourage investment in infrastructure and services, leading to long-term economic benefits.

What is the role of education in promoting sustainable tourism?

Education plays a critical role in promoting sustainable tourism by raising awareness among tourists, tourism businesses, and local communities. It can help to promote best practices, encourage responsible travel behavior, and foster a culture of sustainability.

How can technology be used to promote sustainable tourism?

Technology can be used to promote sustainable tourism by supporting digital platforms that provide information and resources for sustainable travel, reducing the need for paper-based materials and promoting more efficient and eco-friendly travel methods.

What is the role of sustainable tourism in climate change mitigation?

Sustainable tourism can contribute to climate change mitigation by promoting low-carbon travel options, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting conservation efforts that help to mitigate the impact of climate change on natural resources.

How can sustainable tourism be measured?

Sustainable tourism can be measured using a range of indicators, such as carbon emissions, waste reduction, water conservation, and economic impact. There are also several certification programs and sustainability standards that can be used to assess the sustainability of tourism businesses and destinations.

How can travelers support sustainable tourism initiatives?

Travelers can support sustainable tourism initiatives by choosing eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in responsible travel practices, supporting local communities, and minimizing their carbon footprint. They can also seek out sustainable tourism certification programs and support businesses that are committed to sustainable tourism practices.

  • Carbon emissions
  • community-based tourism
  • conservation
  • Cultural Heritage
  • Eco-friendly travel
  • ethical tourism
  • Local Communities
  • Responsible Tourism

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Previous Post

Ecotourism

Benefits of Ecotourism: How Responsible Travel Can Make a Positive Impact

Sustainable Tourism in India

20 Sustainable Tourism Practices and Destinations in India to Visit Now

Related posts.

Participatory Management for Conservation

  • Cultural Tourism
  • Wildlife Tourism

Participatory Management for Conservation and Sustainable Resource Management

Ethical Tourism

Ethical Tourism: Exploring Responsible Travel

How To Save Water

How To Save Water: 18 Conservation Tips

The promise and challenges of sustainable travel products

An increasing number of consumers are indicating a preference for more sustainable travel options.

An increasing number of consumers are indicating a preference for more sustainable travel options. Image:  Joshua Earle/Unsplash

.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo{-webkit-transition:all 0.15s ease-out;transition:all 0.15s ease-out;cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:none;color:inherit;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:hover,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:focus,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-focus]{box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(168,203,251,0.5);} Jesko Neuenburg

David walfisch, natalie nehme, maksim soshkin.

sustainable travel methods

.chakra .wef-9dduvl{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-9dduvl{font-size:1.125rem;}} Explore and monitor how .chakra .wef-15eoq1r{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;color:#F7DB5E;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-15eoq1r{font-size:1.125rem;}} Travel and Tourism is affecting economies, industries and global issues

A hand holding a looking glass by a lake

.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;color:#2846F8;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{font-size:1.125rem;}} Get involved with our crowdsourced digital platform to deliver impact at scale

Stay up to date:, travel and tourism.

Listen to the article

  • The Travel and Tourism sector accounts for an estimated 11% of global emissions.
  • While surveys reveal that 71% of travellers intend to travel more sustainably, there are still significant gaps between consumers’ intentions and behaviour.
  • Here are the roadblocks that get in the way of intention and reality and some ways to generate a more virtuous and sustainable cycle for the industry.

As COP27 kicks off, the urgency and scale of addressing the global climate and environmental challenges are once again taking centre stage. Accounting for an estimated 11% of global emissions, a share that is expected to grow, the Travel and Tourism (T&T) sector will play a critical role in meeting global climate goals.

In this context, governments and investors have mounting pressure on the sector to reduce emissions and increase sustainability through more stringent emissions standards, green tax incentives, and growing ESG-linked investments. Moreover, an increasing number of consumers are indicating a preference for more sustainable travel options.

In response, many travel companies, such as airlines , have made improving sustainability and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions key business goals. However, to achieve these goals and transition into a more sustainable future, T&T companies must successfully develop products that enable more sustainable travel choices.

Split of GHG emissions by industry (pre-pandemic)

A rising demand for sustainable travel

Recent studies and survey results indicate that travellers increasingly value sustainable travel, indicating an opportunity for sustainable travel products. In parallel, a survey by Booking.com found that four out of five global travellers agreed that sustainable travel is a priority for them, with 71% intending to travel more sustainably and 78% aiming to stay at a sustainable property at least once a year.

Concerning the environment, specifically, 69% of respondents to an Expedia survey confirmed that they want to lessen their environmental footprint, and 75% said they would like to use more environmentally-friendly modes of transport.

However, while travellers seem to indicate an increased willingness and demand for environmentally-friendly and sustainable products, the uptake of sustainable travel products anecdotally does not show the same accelerated trend just yet. As sustainable offerings are relatively in their infancy, there is limited research on actual purchasing behaviour. Furthermore, recent surveys revealed that travellers prefer companies’ sustainability practices and offerings to be more transparent, intuitive, and easy to access.

Roadblocks to sustainable consumer behaviour

Additionally, industry interviews and research we are conducting have helped identify a range of roadblocks that explain the gap between consumers’ stated intentions and what they are doing in practice.

These roadblocks can be classified or clustered into six main categories:

1) Limited availability - The roadblock of availability centres around the lack of a sustainable product substitute within a company’s offering. This includes limited overall sustainable product options as well as sustainable products that are competitive with more traditional offerings.

2) Lack of awareness - This roadblock refers to travellers’ lack of awareness of sustainability challenges in T&T, sustainability behaviours that can help overcome these challenges, and sustainable products on offer.

3) Low credibility - Low credibility refers to consumers wanting a greater degree of reassurance and information about the claims companies make concerning the sustainability of their products. Product aspects like transparency, coherent reporting, certification and verified labelling are all tied to improving credibility.

4) Price premium - Generally, sustainable travel options are deemed more expensive than their traditional counterparts. As the willingness to pay a premium for a more sustainable product varies by customer segment and is ever-evolving, customers often drop out from purchasing the alternative due to the higher price.

5) Cumbersome purchase experience - Customers are often discouraged from purchasing sustainable products if the process is burdensome and counterintuitive.

6) Lack of rewards/acknowledgment - This roadblock refers to the need to make customers feel rewarded for their efforts, both physical and emotional. Tools in this space help people facilitate the publishing of their sustainability efforts on social media or provide recognition in physical environments.

Addressing the say-do-gaps

Companies that can provide sustainable offerings that address these say-do-gaps will be better positioned to meet customer needs. As a result, a virtuous cycle can be generated in which increased purchase of sustainable products leads to greater company performance, reinforcing further investment into such options. In turn, the increasing supply of sustainable products would make it easier for travellers to behave sustainably, helping the T&T sector in its net zero transition.

To make a case for investment in sustainable travel products, Accenture and the Forum are working to explore the say-do-gap further, provide an overview of existing sustainable travel products and configurations, develop recommendations for creating sustainable products, and present the industry with a call to action. The full report on this topic will be published in December.

Don't miss any update on this topic

Create a free account and access your personalized content collection with our latest publications and analyses.

License and Republishing

World Economic Forum articles may be republished in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Public License, and in accordance with our Terms of Use.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

The Agenda .chakra .wef-n7bacu{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-weight:400;} Weekly

A weekly update of the most important issues driving the global agenda

.chakra .wef-1dtnjt5{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;} More on Travel and Tourism .chakra .wef-nr1rr4{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;white-space:normal;vertical-align:middle;text-transform:uppercase;font-size:0.75rem;border-radius:0.25rem;font-weight:700;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;line-height:1.2;-webkit-letter-spacing:1.25px;-moz-letter-spacing:1.25px;-ms-letter-spacing:1.25px;letter-spacing:1.25px;background:none;padding:0px;color:#B3B3B3;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;}@media screen and (min-width:37.5rem){.chakra .wef-nr1rr4{font-size:0.875rem;}}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-nr1rr4{font-size:1rem;}} See all

sustainable travel methods

Turning tourism into development: Mitigating risks and leveraging heritage assets

Abeer Al Akel and Maimunah Mohd Sharif

February 15, 2024

sustainable travel methods

Buses are key to fuelling Indian women's economic success. Here's why

Priya Singh

February 8, 2024

sustainable travel methods

These are the world’s most powerful passports to have in 2024

Thea de Gallier

January 31, 2024

sustainable travel methods

These are the world’s 9 most powerful passports in 2024

sustainable travel methods

South Korea is launching a special visa for K-pop lovers

sustainable travel methods

What is travel and tourism’s role in future global prosperity?

Maksim Soshkin and Marion Karl

January 12, 2024

Vacayou Travel

Breathe into wellness with travel inspiration

7 Sustainable Travel Tips for the Eco-Conscious Traveler

Last updated August 25, 2023

While it’s one thing to understand what sustainable travel means, it’s another to put it into practice. Here are seven sustainable travel tips that we’ve picked up along the way .

Every traveler loves to splurge here and there, whether it be a flight halfway across the world, a luxurious hotel or fine dining. But often these extravagances come with a price that’s not necessarily good for the planet or the local communities you visit.

  • Consider Staying Close to Home
  • Choose Your Location Wisely
  • Plan an Environmentally Friendly Trip
  • Pack Smart & Light
  • Choose Sustainable Travel Methods
  • Eat Green—Literally
  • Shop ‘Til You Drop, Sustainably!

The good news is that for those of us who want to see the world, one thing is for certain. It is possible to enjoy the wonders of the world around us while still looking out for Mother Nature. 

Why Sustainable Travel is Important

Sustainable travel, also known as eco-tourism , responsible travel or ethical tourism, is all about minimizing your negative impact on the environment, supporting local economies and cultures, and promoting sustainable practices. 

In this day and age, traveling sustainably is more important than ever and it can actually enhance your wellness experience by immersing you in nature , promoting physical activity and giving you a sense of purpose and connection to the world around you. 

Seven Easy Tips & Tricks to Use Now

So let’s dive into the world of sustainable travel with these seven tips and tricks that can make a positive difference. Which sustainable travel tips can you adopt when you travel?

1. Consider Staying Close to Home

Sure, you might not have seen Rome yet. But what about the park half an hour away that everyone keeps mentioning? It is possible to satisfy your sense of wanderlust without all the carbon emissions from that long flight—and without breaking the bank. Practice sustainable travel by checking out your local hiking trail (check out the AllTrails app for some great recommendations) or taking a beach day at the nearby lake.

2. Choose Your Location Wisely

If you’re going to travel far and wide, you might consider a destination that shows commitment to protecting natural resources or reducing energy consumption. If that tourist-packed city is at the top of your bucket list (Paris, anyone?), consider visiting outside of peak summer months to prevent overcrowding and excessive tourism. Another option is to visit locations that need your support. Many locations that have been affected by natural disasters seek volunteers.

3. Plan an Environmentally Friendly Trip

Once you’ve chosen your destination, you’re not alone in planning out the details of your trip. Tell your Vacayou travel concierge you’d like to consider a more sustainable way to travel. Let them know you’re seeking sustainable accommodation, activities and local experiences that give back to the community. Vacayou’s knowledgeable travel concierge is here to help with your sustainable travel.

4. Pack Smart & Light

So, you’ve got your trip all planned out: location, accommodation and a full itinerary (or perhaps no itinerary at all for my spontaneous travelers). Now what? When your luggage is lighter and easier to transport, you’re reducing your emissions footprint. Consider bringing clothes that mix and match well (thank you, blue jeans), or packing that spunky new reusable water bottle to reduce your plastic usage in paradise.

5. Choose Sustainable Travel Methods

Time to take off. Transport is one of the biggest emitters of greenhouse gases. What can you do? If you need to fly, consider taking a shorter flight. Instead of renting a car to explore your destination, you might try a biking or walking tour. Not only are they sustainable travel methods, but they can be a more immersive way of seeing a city. If in need of a car, consider renting an electric one or use car sharing/public transit options instead.

6. Eat Green—Literally

We all want to indulge in some local cuisine, but there are certainly ways to do so sustainably. Meat and dairy have an outsize impact on climate change. And eating vegetarian or vegan where possible could make a small (but mighty!) difference. Or, when in that coastal town, try sustainably sourced seafood. You might even consider packing your favorite snacks to avoid additional plastic use. But, of course, treat yourself to those carnitas in Mexico. Everything in moderation, right?

7. Shop ‘Til You Drop, Sustainably!

Everyone wants to bring home a souvenir for their loved ones, or perhaps a trinket for themselves. Consider buying local to avoid imported goods sold in chain stores. Don’t be afraid to ask retailers about their environmental impact and what conditions are like for their workers. 

Be a More Sustainable Traveler

Sustainable travel is all about making conscious choices that minimize our negative impact. Wherever you go, remember to take care of our beautiful planet. And don’t forget to have fun while you’re at it. 

About Vacayou

At Vacayou [pronounced VACAY – YOU], we believe that travel has the power to change lives. The power to revive, rejuvenate and redirect your inner wellness warrior . And that’s why we’re here. Vacayou brings the world of wellness travel to you! No matter how far or how adventurous, our team scours the globe to curate the best in wellness travel. But the booking process can often be time-consuming and complicated. We’ve made it much easier for you to search, discover, and book wellness and active vacations . With Vacayou’s Instant Book, your dream wellness getaway is now just one click away . Start the trip of your lifetime today, with Vacayou . We are here to help create a healthier global community through wellness and active travel. To keep up with the latest wellness trends and experiences, be sure to  subscribe to our newsletter . 

You May Also Like

6 tips on preventing social burnout when traveling, stress-free travel. here’s how to keep calm and travel on, 6 easy stretches to do at your gate.

  • Active Travel 30
  • Featured Trips 60
  • Healthy Eating 23
  • Healthy Living 40
  • Live Well 1
  • Mindfulness 36
  • Most Popular 4
  • Movement 30
  • On Our Radar 5
  • Product Hot List 2
  • Retreats 25
  • Spa Getaways 37
  • Travel Tips 65
  • Travel Trends 32
  • Travel Well 0
  • Well Q&A 25
  • Wellness Getaways 94
  • Wellness Trends 64
  • Work-Life Harmony 9

Passing Thru Travel

Passing Thru Travel

12 Best Practices for Sustainable Travel in 2024 – How to Travel with Minimal Environmental Impact

Posted: February 14, 2024 | Last updated: February 14, 2024

<p><strong>In an era where climate change and environmental conservation are paramount, sustainable travel has become more than a buzzword—it’s a necessary shift in how we explore the world. Sustainable travel means being mindful of our environmental impact while experiencing new cultures and destinations. This guide delves into the best practices for eco-friendly travel, ensuring your adventures contribute positively to the planet and local communities.</strong></p>

In an era where climate change and environmental conservation are paramount, sustainable travel has become more than a buzzword—it’s a necessary shift in how we explore the world. Sustainable travel means being mindful of our environmental impact while experiencing new cultures and destinations. This guide delves into the best practices for eco-friendly travel, ensuring your adventures contribute positively to the planet and local communities.

<p><span>When planning your travels, opting for transportation methods that minimize carbon emissions is crucial in sustainable travel. For shorter distances, trains and buses are significantly more eco-friendly than airplanes, emitting far less carbon per passenger. This choice reduces your environmental impact and often provides a more scenic and immersive travel experience.</span></p> <p><span>If air travel is unavoidable, particularly for longer distances, look for airlines that offer carbon offset programs. These programs allow you to compensate for the emissions from your flight by funding environmental projects such as reforestation or renewable energy initiatives. By making these conscious choices in your mode of transportation, you play a direct role in reducing the carbon footprint of your travels, contributing to the broader effort of environmental conservation.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Rent electric or hybrid vehicles for road trips to reduce your carbon footprint.</span></p>

Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation

When planning your travels, opting for transportation methods that minimize carbon emissions is crucial in sustainable travel. For shorter distances, trains and buses are significantly more eco-friendly than airplanes, emitting far less carbon per passenger. This choice reduces your environmental impact and often provides a more scenic and immersive travel experience.

If air travel is unavoidable, particularly for longer distances, look for airlines that offer carbon offset programs. These programs allow you to compensate for the emissions from your flight by funding environmental projects such as reforestation or renewable energy initiatives. By making these conscious choices in your mode of transportation, you play a direct role in reducing the carbon footprint of your travels, contributing to the broader effort of environmental conservation.

Insider’s Tip: Rent electric or hybrid vehicles for road trips to reduce your carbon footprint.

<p><span>Engaging with local economies is a key aspect of sustainable travel and a practice that directly benefits the communities you visit. By choosing locally-owned accommodations, dining at local restaurants, and selecting local tour operators, you’re not only immersing yourself in the authentic culture of the destination but also ensuring that your spending contributes directly to the local economy. This approach supports small businesses and helps to distribute tourism dollars more evenly, fostering community development.</span></p> <p><span>Moreover, local establishments often have a smaller carbon footprint than larger international chains. They’re more likely to use local resources, employ residents, and preserve traditional practices. By making these choices, you help sustain the local culture and environment while reducing the overall emissions associated with your travel. This way, your journey becomes more meaningful, both for you and for the people whose home you’re visiting.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Seek out accommodations that are known for their sustainable practices and community involvement.</span></p>

Support Local Businesses

Engaging with local economies is a key aspect of sustainable travel and a practice that directly benefits the communities you visit. By choosing locally-owned accommodations, dining at local restaurants, and selecting local tour operators, you’re not only immersing yourself in the authentic culture of the destination but also ensuring that your spending contributes directly to the local economy. This approach supports small businesses and helps to distribute tourism dollars more evenly, fostering community development.

Moreover, local establishments often have a smaller carbon footprint than larger international chains. They’re more likely to use local resources, employ residents, and preserve traditional practices. By making these choices, you help sustain the local culture and environment while reducing the overall emissions associated with your travel. This way, your journey becomes more meaningful, both for you and for the people whose home you’re visiting.

Insider’s Tip: Seek out accommodations that are known for their sustainable practices and community involvement.

<p><span>Packing light is an effective way to contribute to more sustainable travel. By reducing the weight of your luggage, you indirectly help lower the fuel consumption of flights, decreasing the carbon emissions associated with air travel. Lighter planes mean less fuel burned, making a small but meaningful environmental impact. Additionally, consider incorporating eco-friendly travel products into your packing list. Choose biodegradable toiletries that minimize your plastic waste and reduce the environmental impact of your personal care products. Carrying a reusable water bottle cuts down on single-use plastics and keeps you hydrated without adding to plastic pollution.</span></p> <p><span>Furthermore, solar-powered chargers are a green alternative to traditional charging methods, harnessing renewable energy to keep your devices powered up. By making thoughtful choices in what and how you pack, you protect the environment while still enjoying the conveniences and necessities of modern travel.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Choose a backpack or suitcase made from recycled materials for an extra sustainable choice.</span></p>

Pack Light and Eco-Friendly

Packing light is an effective way to contribute to more sustainable travel. By reducing the weight of your luggage, you indirectly help lower the fuel consumption of flights, decreasing the carbon emissions associated with air travel. Lighter planes mean less fuel burned, making a small but meaningful environmental impact. Additionally, consider incorporating eco-friendly travel products into your packing list. Choose biodegradable toiletries that minimize your plastic waste and reduce the environmental impact of your personal care products. Carrying a reusable water bottle cuts down on single-use plastics and keeps you hydrated without adding to plastic pollution.

Furthermore, solar-powered chargers are a green alternative to traditional charging methods, harnessing renewable energy to keep your devices powered up. By making thoughtful choices in what and how you pack, you protect the environment while still enjoying the conveniences and necessities of modern travel.

Insider’s Tip: Choose a backpack or suitcase made from recycled materials for an extra sustainable choice.

<p><span>In natural settings where wildlife is present, it’s crucial to maintain a respectful distance. This ensures not only your safety but also the well-being of the animals. Interfering with wildlife can disrupt their natural behaviors and habitats. Avoid attractions or activities that exploit animals for entertainment, as these often contribute to animal stress and harm. Instead, opt for wildlife viewing experiences that promote conservation and ethical practices.</span></p> <p><span>Additionally, when exploring natural areas, stay on marked trails. Straying off the path can destroy habitat and negatively impact the local flora and fauna. By sticking to designated trails, you help preserve the natural environment and ensure it remains a wildlife sanctuary. Your mindful actions contribute to the conservation of these ecosystems, allowing future generations to enjoy and appreciate the natural world just as you do.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Choose wildlife tours led by reputable guides who prioritize animal welfare and conservation. Do not ride elephants!</span></p>

Respect Wildlife and Natural Habitats

In natural settings where wildlife is present, it’s crucial to maintain a respectful distance. This ensures not only your safety but also the well-being of the animals. Interfering with wildlife can disrupt their natural behaviors and habitats. Avoid attractions or activities that exploit animals for entertainment, as these often contribute to animal stress and harm. Instead, opt for wildlife viewing experiences that promote conservation and ethical practices.

Additionally, when exploring natural areas, stay on marked trails. Straying off the path can destroy habitat and negatively impact the local flora and fauna. By sticking to designated trails, you help preserve the natural environment and ensure it remains a wildlife sanctuary. Your mindful actions contribute to the conservation of these ecosystems, allowing future generations to enjoy and appreciate the natural world just as you do.

Insider’s Tip: Choose wildlife tours led by reputable guides who prioritize animal welfare and conservation. Do not ride elephants!

<p><span>Adhering to the three Rs of sustainability – reduce, reuse, and recycle – is fundamental in minimizing your environmental impact during travel. Reducing waste starts with making conscious decisions about what you consume and how. Opt for products with minimal packaging, and whenever possible, choose alternatives to single-use plastics, like carrying a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and shopping bags. Reusing items not only cuts down on waste but also saves resources. For instance, refill your water bottle, use the same shopping bag, and choose accommodations that offer bulk toiletry dispensers rather than single-use containers.</span></p> <p><span>Recycling is the last step, but it’s equally important. Ensure you’re disposing of waste properly by separating recyclables from trash. Consider carrying recyclables in areas where recycling facilities might not be readily available until you find a proper disposal point. By following these practices, you help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or, worse, natural habitats and oceans, thereby playing a part in preserving the environment while traveling.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Carry a ‘zero-waste kit’ with reusable cutlery, a shopping bag, and a coffee cup.</span></p>

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Adhering to the three Rs of sustainability – reduce, reuse, and recycle – is fundamental in minimizing your environmental impact during travel. Reducing waste starts with making conscious decisions about what you consume and how. Opt for products with minimal packaging, and whenever possible, choose alternatives to single-use plastics, like carrying a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and shopping bags. Reusing items not only cuts down on waste but also saves resources. For instance, refill your water bottle, use the same shopping bag, and choose accommodations that offer bulk toiletry dispensers rather than single-use containers.

Recycling is the last step, but it’s equally important. Ensure you’re disposing of waste properly by separating recyclables from trash. Consider carrying recyclables in areas where recycling facilities might not be readily available until you find a proper disposal point. By following these practices, you help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or, worse, natural habitats and oceans, thereby playing a part in preserving the environment while traveling.

Insider’s Tip: Carry a ‘zero-waste kit’ with reusable cutlery, a shopping bag, and a coffee cup.

<p><span>Being conscious of water and energy usage is a crucial aspect of sustainable travel. Simple, everyday actions can collectively make a significant impact on conserving resources. Remember to turn off lights, air conditioning, and electronic devices when not in use or leaving your accommodation. This not only saves energy but also reduces unnecessary electricity consumption. Consider taking shorter showers, a practical way to reduce water usage, and reuse towels instead of requesting new ones daily.</span></p> <p><span>Many hotels and accommodations now encourage this practice as part of their environmental policies. By being mindful of your water and energy consumption, you reduce your travels’ environmental footprint. These small but meaningful actions are steps towards more responsible and sustainable tourism, ensuring that the natural and cultural environments you visit can be preserved and enjoyed for years to come.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Stay in accommodations that utilize renewable energy sources or have water-saving systems in place.</span></p>

Conserve Water and Energy

Being conscious of water and energy usage is a crucial aspect of sustainable travel. Simple, everyday actions can collectively make a significant impact on conserving resources. Remember to turn off lights, air conditioning, and electronic devices when not in use or leaving your accommodation. This not only saves energy but also reduces unnecessary electricity consumption. Consider taking shorter showers, a practical way to reduce water usage, and reuse towels instead of requesting new ones daily.

Many hotels and accommodations now encourage this practice as part of their environmental policies. By being mindful of your water and energy consumption, you reduce your travels’ environmental footprint. These small but meaningful actions are steps towards more responsible and sustainable tourism, ensuring that the natural and cultural environments you visit can be preserved and enjoyed for years to come.

Insider’s Tip: Stay in accommodations that utilize renewable energy sources or have water-saving systems in place.

<p><span>As a responsible traveler, it’s important to educate yourself about the environmental challenges faced by the destinations you visit. This knowledge enhances your understanding of the local context. It enables you to make more informed decisions about how to travel responsibly. Awareness of these issues allows you to adjust your behavior accordingly, such as using water sparingly in drought-prone areas or avoiding products contributing to habitat loss, whether it’s water scarcity, pollution, or habitat destruction.</span></p> <p><span>Furthermore, sharing your sustainable travel practices with fellow travelers is a powerful way to spread awareness and encourage others to adopt similar habits. Engaging in conversations about sustainability, sharing tips on eco-friendly practices, or even leading by example can inspire those around you to be more environmentally conscious. This collective effort can create a significant positive impact, helping to preserve the beauty and integrity of the places you visit.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Participate in local environmental initiatives or workshops if available.</span></p>

Educate Yourself and Others

As a responsible traveler, it’s important to educate yourself about the environmental challenges faced by the destinations you visit. This knowledge enhances your understanding of the local context. It enables you to make more informed decisions about how to travel responsibly. Awareness of these issues allows you to adjust your behavior accordingly, such as using water sparingly in drought-prone areas or avoiding products contributing to habitat loss, whether it’s water scarcity, pollution, or habitat destruction.

Furthermore, sharing your sustainable travel practices with fellow travelers is a powerful way to spread awareness and encourage others to adopt similar habits. Engaging in conversations about sustainability, sharing tips on eco-friendly practices, or even leading by example can inspire those around you to be more environmentally conscious. This collective effort can create a significant positive impact, helping to preserve the beauty and integrity of the places you visit.

Insider’s Tip: Participate in local environmental initiatives or workshops if available.

<p><span>Considering the carbon emissions from your travel is an essential part of sustainable tourism. While traveling without leaving a carbon footprint is challenging, you can mitigate this impact by investing in carbon offsetting initiatives. These programs typically involve contributing to projects that reduce carbon emissions elsewhere, like renewable energy projects which replace fossil fuels, or reforestation efforts that naturally absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.</span></p> <p><span>When you choose to offset your emissions, you’re taking responsibility for the environmental impact of your travel. Many airlines offer carbon offset programs at the point of purchase. However, you can also independently invest in verified projects around the world. By offsetting your carbon emissions, you’re contributing to global efforts against climate change, ensuring that your travel positively impacts the environment.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Use online carbon calculators to estimate travel emissions and find suitable offsetting projects.</span></p>

Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Considering the carbon emissions from your travel is an essential part of sustainable tourism. While traveling without leaving a carbon footprint is challenging, you can mitigate this impact by investing in carbon offsetting initiatives. These programs typically involve contributing to projects that reduce carbon emissions elsewhere, like renewable energy projects which replace fossil fuels, or reforestation efforts that naturally absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

When you choose to offset your emissions, you’re taking responsibility for the environmental impact of your travel. Many airlines offer carbon offset programs at the point of purchase. However, you can also independently invest in verified projects around the world. By offsetting your carbon emissions, you’re contributing to global efforts against climate change, ensuring that your travel positively impacts the environment.

Insider’s Tip: Use online carbon calculators to estimate travel emissions and find suitable offsetting projects.

<p><span>Embracing slow travel is about prioritizing quality over quantity in your journeys. Rather than rushing to tick off a long list of destinations, this approach encourages you to spend more time in fewer places. Doing so allows you to delve deeper into the local culture, gaining a richer and more authentic understanding of the places you visit. This immersive experience often leads to more meaningful connections with local people, traditions, and customs.</span></p> <p><span>Additionally, slow travel significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with frequent travel, such as lower carbon emissions from less frequent flights or drives. This more relaxed pace of travel benefits the environment. It enhances your overall experience, allowing for a more thoughtful and fulfilling exploration of each destination.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Choose a single destination or region and explore it thoroughly, using local transportation and enjoying off-the-beaten-path experiences.</span></p>

Embrace Slow Travel

Embracing slow travel is about prioritizing quality over quantity in your journeys. Rather than rushing to tick off a long list of destinations, this approach encourages you to spend more time in fewer places. Doing so allows you to delve deeper into the local culture, gaining a richer and more authentic understanding of the places you visit. This immersive experience often leads to more meaningful connections with local people, traditions, and customs.

Additionally, slow travel significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with frequent travel, such as lower carbon emissions from less frequent flights or drives. This more relaxed pace of travel benefits the environment. It enhances your overall experience, allowing for a more thoughtful and fulfilling exploration of each destination.

Insider’s Tip: Choose a single destination or region and explore it thoroughly, using local transportation and enjoying off-the-beaten-path experiences.

<p><span>Engaging in low-impact activities is a key aspect of sustainable travel. Opting for experiences like hiking, biking, or kayaking allows you to enjoy and appreciate the natural beauty of your destination without contributing to pollution or resource depletion. These activities minimize your environmental footprint and provide a more intimate connection with nature. When selecting these experiences, consider those that offer educational insights into the local ecosystem or culture.</span></p> <p><span>For example, guided nature walks can teach you about native wildlife and plant species, while cultural tours led by local experts can deepen your understanding of the area’s history and traditions. By choosing environmentally friendly and informative activities, you enrich your travel experience and support sustainable tourism practices that prioritize the health of our planet and its diverse ecosystems.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Join guided eco-tours that focus on environmental education and conservation efforts. These tours provide insights into local sustainability practices and often contribute directly to conservation efforts.</span></p>

Participate in Sustainable Activities

Engaging in low-impact activities is a key aspect of sustainable travel. Opting for experiences like hiking, biking, or kayaking allows you to enjoy and appreciate the natural beauty of your destination without contributing to pollution or resource depletion. These activities minimize your environmental footprint and provide a more intimate connection with nature. When selecting these experiences, consider those that offer educational insights into the local ecosystem or culture.

For example, guided nature walks can teach you about native wildlife and plant species, while cultural tours led by local experts can deepen your understanding of the area’s history and traditions. By choosing environmentally friendly and informative activities, you enrich your travel experience and support sustainable tourism practices that prioritize the health of our planet and its diverse ecosystems.

Insider’s Tip: Join guided eco-tours that focus on environmental education and conservation efforts. These tours provide insights into local sustainability practices and often contribute directly to conservation efforts.

<p><span>Eating locally sourced food while traveling is an opportunity to enjoy authentic flavors and dishes and an effective way to reduce your environmental impact. Food that is locally sourced hasn’t undergone long-distance transportation, which is a major contributor to carbon emissions. By opting for meals made with local ingredients, you reduce the demand for transported goods and your carbon footprint.</span></p> <p><span>Furthermore, eating locally supports farmers and producers, contributing to the local economy and community. </span><span>This approach allows you to experience the region’s culinary culture more intimately while supporting sustainable practices that benefit the environment and local livelihoods. It’s a simple yet impactful way to make your travel more environmentally friendly and culturally enriching.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Visit local markets or farm-to-table restaurants to enjoy fresh, regional produce. This helps reduce transportation emissions associated with food and offers the chance to experience the region’s culinary culture more authentically.</span></p>

Eat Locally Sourced Food

Eating locally sourced food while traveling is an opportunity to enjoy authentic flavors and dishes and an effective way to reduce your environmental impact. Food that is locally sourced hasn’t undergone long-distance transportation, which is a major contributor to carbon emissions. By opting for meals made with local ingredients, you reduce the demand for transported goods and your carbon footprint.

Furthermore, eating locally supports farmers and producers, contributing to the local economy and community. This approach allows you to experience the region’s culinary culture more intimately while supporting sustainable practices that benefit the environment and local livelihoods. It’s a simple yet impactful way to make your travel more environmentally friendly and culturally enriching.

Insider’s Tip: Visit local markets or farm-to-table restaurants to enjoy fresh, regional produce. This helps reduce transportation emissions associated with food and offers the chance to experience the region’s culinary culture more authentically.

<p><span>Choosing accommodations committed to sustainability is a significant step in responsible travel. Nowadays, many hotels and hostels are adopting eco-friendly practices, and by selecting these establishments, you’re actively supporting and encouraging the growth of green tourism. Look for places that utilize solar energy, which reduces reliance on fossil fuels, or those with effective water conservation measures, essential in areas facing water scarcity.</span></p> <p><span>Recycling programs, use of eco-friendly materials, and efforts to reduce food waste are other green initiatives to consider. By opting to stay in such accommodations, you not only lessen your environmental impact but also help to drive demand for sustainable practices on the broader tourism industry. This consumer choice sends a strong message to the market about the importance of environmental responsibility, influencing more establishments to adopt similar practices.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Look for eco-certifications or awards when booking accommodations, which often indicate a genuine commitment to environmental responsibility.</span></p>

Stay in Sustainable Accommodation

Choosing accommodations committed to sustainability is a significant step in responsible travel. Nowadays, many hotels and hostels are adopting eco-friendly practices, and by selecting these establishments, you’re actively supporting and encouraging the growth of green tourism. Look for places that utilize solar energy, which reduces reliance on fossil fuels, or those with effective water conservation measures, essential in areas facing water scarcity.

Recycling programs, use of eco-friendly materials, and efforts to reduce food waste are other green initiatives to consider. By opting to stay in such accommodations, you not only lessen your environmental impact but also help to drive demand for sustainable practices on the broader tourism industry. This consumer choice sends a strong message to the market about the importance of environmental responsibility, influencing more establishments to adopt similar practices.

Insider’s Tip: Look for eco-certifications or awards when booking accommodations, which often indicate a genuine commitment to environmental responsibility.

<p><span>Sustainable travel is more than just being a responsible tourist; it’s about being a conscious global citizen and making choices that reduce our environmental impact while enhancing the well-being of local communities. By adopting these best practices, you become part of a growing movement that values environmental preservation, cultural respect, and the vitality of the communities and environments you visit.</span></p> <p><span>This thoughtful approach to travel ensures that your experiences are enriching for you and beneficial for the planet. Choosing eco-friendly transportation, supporting local businesses, respecting natural habitats, and making mindful food and accommodation choices contribute to a healthier planet. Sustainable travel isn’t just about reducing harm; it’s about actively contributing to positive change, creating a ripple effect beyond your individual journey. </span></p> <p><span>As you explore the world, remember that every small action counts towards preserving the world’s beauty and diversity for future generations to explore and enjoy. Your choices can lead to meaningful experiences that align with sustainability principles, ensuring that the wonders remain for future generations to appreciate.</span></p> <p><span>More Articles Like This…</span></p> <p><span>Barcelona: Discover the Top 10 Beach Clubs</span></p> <p><span>2024 Global City Travel Guide – Your Passport to the World’s Top Destination Cities</span></p> <p><span>Exploring Khao Yai 2024 – A Hidden Gem of Thailand</span></p> <p><span>The post 12 Best Practices for Sustainable Travel in 2024 – How to Travel with Minimal Environmental Impact republished on</span> <span>Passing Thru</span><span> with permission from</span> <span>The Green Voyage</span><span>.</span></p> <p>Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Day2505.</p> <p><span>For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.</span></p>

The Bottom Line

Sustainable travel is more than just being a responsible tourist; it’s about being a conscious global citizen and making choices that reduce our environmental impact while enhancing the well-being of local communities. By adopting these best practices, you become part of a growing movement that values environmental preservation, cultural respect, and the vitality of the communities and environments you visit.

This thoughtful approach to travel ensures that your experiences are enriching for you and beneficial for the planet. Choosing eco-friendly transportation, supporting local businesses, respecting natural habitats, and making mindful food and accommodation choices contribute to a healthier planet. Sustainable travel isn’t just about reducing harm; it’s about actively contributing to positive change, creating a ripple effect beyond your individual journey. 

As you explore the world, remember that every small action counts towards preserving the world’s beauty and diversity for future generations to explore and enjoy. Your choices can lead to meaningful experiences that align with sustainability principles, ensuring that the wonders remain for future generations to appreciate.

More Articles Like This…

Barcelona: Discover the Top 10 Beach Clubs

2024 Global City Travel Guide – Your Passport to the World’s Top Destination Cities

Exploring Khao Yai 2024 – A Hidden Gem of Thailand

The post 12 Best Practices for Sustainable Travel in 2024 – How to Travel with Minimal Environmental Impact republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Day2505.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

More for You

trump capitol rioters backfire

Donald Trump's Jan. 6 Comments Could Backfire

President Joe Biden greets Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh before delivering the State of the Union address on February 7, 2023, in Washington, DC.

Brett Kavanaugh rides to the Biden administration’s defense in a big First Amendment case

Steve Doocy, on set in August at Fox News studios in New York, has become more critical of Republicans, including former president Donald Trump, over the past year on “Fox & Friends.”

On Fox News, Steve Doocy has become the unexpected voice of dissent

Debra Messing, Julianna Margulies and Michael Rapaport were among the high-profile Jewish entertainers denouncing filmmaker Jonathan Glazer's Oscar speech about Israe.

Michael Rapaport, Debra Messing denounce Oscar winner's speech with 450 other Jewish entertainers

Customers wait in line to order below signage for the Costco Kirkland Signature $1.50 hot dog and soda combo in Hawthorne, California.

A top Costco executive just gave an update on the fate of the $1.50 hot dog and soda combo

Buying Satellite Imagery of Ukraine Is Dangerously Easy

A Suspicious Pattern Alarming the Ukrainian Military

What's up with Trump and Chubb? Insurance giant balks at underwriting fraud-case bond days after blowback from E. Jean Carroll bond

What's up with Trump and Chubb? Insurance giant balks at underwriting fraud-case bond days after blowback from E. Jean Carroll bond

FILE - Alabama Sen. John Rogers, D-Birmingham, speaks during a House session at the Statehouse, April 17, 2012, in Montgomery, Ala. Rogers will plead guilty to conspiracy and obstruction of justice, federal prosecutors announced Monday, March 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Dave Martin, File)

The longest-serving member of the Alabama House resigns after pleading guilty to federal charges

Joe Biden

Joe Biden Beats Donald Trump in Three Polls in One Week

NFL News: Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers lose a star player after their 2024 Super Bowl defeat

NFL News: Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers lose a star player after their 2024 Super Bowl defeat

Jake Sullivan, US national security adviser, speaks during a news conference in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, DC, US, on Monday, March 18, 2024.

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan confirms Israel killed top Hamas commander

Map reveals the six targets Putin could nuke first in World War Three

Map reveals the six targets Putin could nuke first in World War Three

NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 15: Inductee Mark Levin attends Radio Hall Of Fame 2018 Induction Ceremony at Guastavino's on November 15, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Radio Hall of Fame ) (Photo: Michael Kovac via Getty Images)

Mark Levin Gets Schooled On Why GOP Billionaires Will Not Help Trump

Young female creative professional listens to coworker

16 Compliments You Didn’t Realize Are Actually Pretty Insulting

Rob Smith leaves Republican Party

Gay Black Republican Leaves Party: 'I Was Betrayed'

Top real-estate CEO sees decades of housing pain ahead: ‘What the Fed did will have a 30-year tail on it’

Top real-estate CEO sees decades of housing pain ahead: ‘What the Fed did will have a 30-year tail on it’

‘He’s exposed’: Donald Trump learns that there are some bills you cannot weasel out of

‘He’s exposed’: Donald Trump learns that there are some bills you cannot weasel out of

Sonia Sotomayor Should Retire Now

Sonia Sotomayor Should Retire Now

Dr. Dre had three strokes after a brain aneurysm. Here are the warning signs of a stroke.

Dr. Dre had three strokes after a brain aneurysm. Here are the warning signs of a stroke.

Trump Video Message Spurs Debate on Immigration and National Security

Trump Video Message Spurs Debate on Immigration and National Security

IMAGES

  1. Sustainable transportation options to reduce your carbon footprint

    sustainable travel methods

  2. The basics of Sustainable Tourism (and actions you can take to help) in

    sustainable travel methods

  3. How To Make Business Travel More Sustainable

    sustainable travel methods

  4. 13 Incredible Benefits of Sustainable Tourism To Adopt

    sustainable travel methods

  5. 15 Sustainable Travel Tips to Become a Responsible Traveller

    sustainable travel methods

  6. Sustainable Travel Tips: How to Protect the Planet on Vacation

    sustainable travel methods

COMMENTS

  1. How to travel better: a beginner's guide to sustainable travel in 2023

    The single more significant way to reduce the carbon emissions of travelling is to tackle the transport portion, which is often responsible for at least 70% of the carbon emissions of a holiday ...

  2. How to Travel More Sustainably

    Asking questions — both while you're traveling and, more important, before you book — is one of the most powerful things that travelers can do, said Gregory Miller, the executive director of ...

  3. How to travel better: a beginner's guide to sustainable travel in 2023

    What's sustainable travel? ... There are concerted efforts to decarbonise air travel using alternative fuels and methods of propulsion (such as via electricity and hydrogen), but even the most optimistic predictions support that this change is at least a decade away for most airlines. For the time being, the emissions from just one long-haul ...

  4. Sustainable Travel: 6 Ways to Be an Eco-Conscious Traveler

    Follow these sustainable packing tips: Pack light to help reduce fuel needed for the transportation of you and your baggage. Use TSA-friendly reusable bags and containers for health and beauty ...

  5. How to Travel Sustainably

    REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE, REFUSE. There are so many Rs to embrace in the mission to be more sustainable. You know the deal: use less, buy less, waste less, invest in long-lasting products—but we ...

  6. Sustainable Travel Guide: What, Why & How

    4- Use eco-conscious tour operators and activities. When travelling, being mindful of the activity you choose and the travel agent you select is very important for helping reduce impact. A sustainable tour operator offers travel products or services complying with high social and environmental standards.

  7. Top 10 Tips for Sustainable Travel

    Research the different transportation options in the destination you are visiting to make an informed decision. > Discover more ways to reduce your carbon footprint. 4. Conserve water and energy. Beyond transportation, tourism also relies on energy for heating, lighting, and electricity.

  8. How to Make Travel More Sustainable

    4. Act Like a Local As Best You Can. Imitating the local way of life is the most respectful way to travel. Disconnect from the online recommendations and the travel books (if people even read them ...

  9. Sustainable Travel: 6 Ways To Be A Sustainable Traveler

    Like sustainable energy or sustainable agriculture, sustainable travel acknowledges that the mainstream approach isn't working, and offers a better alternative. A study by Sustainable Travel International found 60% of leisure travelers in the U.S. have engaged in sustainable travel in the last three years. But what does sustainable travel ...

  10. The expert guide to sustainable travel in 2022

    The expert guide to travelling more sustainably in 2022. To mark Earth Day on 22 April 2022, Richard Hammond, founder of Green Traveller, shares his 20-plus years of expertise on how best to explore the world sustainably. Being a green traveller today is no longer limited to one-off gestures but, rather, it's a state of mind.

  11. 6 Ways to Be a More Sustainable Traveler

    Avoid the plane and take the train. Become part of the emerging "slow travel" trend by going to fewer places and spending more time in each. Train travel is a good way to do this. Not only ...

  12. How to Be a Sustainable Traveler: 18 Tips

    1. Make Smarter Flight Choices. Air travel emissions make up a whopping 20% of a tourist's carbon footprint. If you must fly, be sure to pack light to lessen the plane's load and try to book a ...

  13. What is Sustainable Travel: 8 Best Practices

    Sustainable Travel: 8 Best Practices. 1. Staying in eco-friendly accommodations. Staying in eco-friendly accommodations reduces the impact of tourism on the environment. From renewable energy production to bio-architecture, eco-friendly lodgings focus on preserving the environment and have positive environmental effects. However, this is not all.

  14. Eco-Friendly Transportation: 12 Helpful Ideas

    Sustainable transportation transcends conventional travel methods, prioritizing reduced emissions, energy conservation, and efficient resource utilization. This encompasses public transport like buses and subways, simple practices such as biking and walking, and shared commutes via carpooling or ridesharing .

  15. 6 simple tips to travel sustainably

    Innovative sustainable tourism attractions around the world. 5. Spend your money locally. If you choose locally-owned accommodation, eat at independent restaurants, buy locally made products and choose local experiences you can make a positive impact.

  16. 12 ways to travel sustainably in the new year

    Here are 12 ways travelers can come back stronger. 1. Explore the space above you. For most of my life I've been focused on Earth, but suddenly I'm drawn to the stars—and obsessed with the ...

  17. 8 sustainable travel tips from expert green travelers

    In fact, 81% of travelers plan on looking for sustainable accommodations in the next year (up from 62% in 2016), according to Booking.com's 2021 Sustainable Travel Report. TPG writer Lori Zaino is one of those travelers. "I consider many things beyond just if the hotel recycles or has ditched single-use amenities," Zaino said.

  18. Working Towards Sustainable Travel

    A sustainable future for travel. INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTIONS. Google is working with the travel industry, academics, and travel providers to develop the Travel Impact Model (TIM). This publicly available model has the potential to estimate air travel impact globally and lead to climate-positive change in the travel industry. View details.

  19. Holiday Travel Methods, Ranked from Most to Least Eco-Friendly

    As you can guess, the airplane is one of the least sustainable travel methods. Planes require an abundance of fuel, they give off an unbelievable amount of emissions, and they don't exactly qualify as "energy efficient.". But, they do move many people at a time (like taking the train, bus, or carpooling).

  20. Sustainable Travel Trends 2023: Explore the World Responsibly |GI

    5. Virtual Reality Tourism: Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) will enable immersive, eco-conscious travel experiences without physical travel, reducing the environmental footprint. As these technologies mature, travelers will have a wealth of options to explore the world while minimizing their impact on the environment.

  21. Sustainable Tourism Practices and Destinations: Examples from Around

    The Netherlands - A country that is promoting sustainable tourism through initiatives such as green hotels, bike-friendly cities, and nature conservation programs. New Zealand - A country that has a strong focus on sustainable tourism, including eco-tourism, conservation efforts, and responsible travel practices.

  22. The promise and challenges of sustainable travel products

    In parallel, a survey by Booking.com found that four out of five global travellers agreed that sustainable travel is a priority for them, with 71% intending to travel more sustainably and 78% aiming to stay at a sustainable property at least once a year. Concerning the environment, specifically, 69% of respondents to an Expedia survey confirmed ...

  23. 7 Sustainable Travel Tips for the Eco-Conscious Traveler

    Consider bringing clothes that mix and match well (thank you, blue jeans), or packing that spunky new reusable water bottle to reduce your plastic usage in paradise. 5. Choose Sustainable Travel Methods. Time to take off. Transport is one of the biggest emitters of greenhouse gases.

  24. 12 Best Practices for Sustainable Travel in 2024

    When planning your travels, opting for transportation methods that minimize carbon emissions is crucial in sustainable travel. For shorter distances, trains and buses are significantly more eco ...