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.
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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.
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