Over the last few years I’ve had the opportunity to travel frequently, which is such a privilege and a blessing. Here are 10 ways to be an eco-traveler.
My Top Sustainable Traveling Tips:
With each trip I’ve learned more about realistic ways I can leave a positive impact. The places I usually go to require flying. Instead of shaming myself or accepting the negativity from others, I realized there are a lot of sustainable “wins” I can recognize and celebrate, instead. And so, while I’m away from home, I try to implement my conscious values with the 10 eco-travel tips outlined below.
1. Utilize Public Transportation
Public transportation is a great way to lower travel expenses, avoid some of the area’s traffic, and minimize your/ the group’s emissions. The “Traveling by public transportation uses less energy and produces less pollution than comparable travel in private vehicles (APTA, 2008).” Plus, if you get turned around public transportation employees are typically willing to help and give you directions to where you need to be. After all, it’s their job to know the ins and outs of the area you’re in.
2. Eat Locally & In Season
Eating locally versus at fast food chains is a great way to experience the area and culture you’re in, while reducing environmental impact. Seasonal eating supports the current harvest. Choosing to eat at local cafés and restaurants that use these seasonal ingredients reduces food-associated energy and emissions.
3. Book Sustainable Accommodations
There are many environmental and sustainable hotels around the world. It’s worth the effort to search for these specific accommodations. Booking.com has a sustainable hotel rating and filter system. Utilizing a tool like this if you don’t want to research and assess hotels yourself, is a great alternative.
4. If Able, Walk Everywhere
If you are able to walk, this is a great way to get around sustainably. If you’re unable to walk whether physically or based on where you are going, public transportation, ride-shares, and hotel shuttle options are a great alternative.
5. Respect Nature
No matter where you are — on vacation or at home — but especially while traveling, it’s important to respect nature. Please do not litter or disturb species in their nests/environments. Instead, be sure to leave nothing extra and only take memories!
6. Have A Reusable Water Bottle With You
A reusable water bottle will again save money on avoidable purchases. Plus, when commuting and exploring, this will be great to have on. Not all activities will provide water or have a café on the property to hydrate. Many countries offer fountains throughout cities for free refills. And, cafés are typically willing to fill up a water bottle for free or at a lower cost than a water bottle purchase.
7. Thrift Instead Of Buying New
Thrifting is a fabulous way to find a souvenir to bring home. Especially unique ones that gift shops might not have.Plus, this is another great way to supports stores that may be local and small businesses.
8. Travel With Likeminded People
Travel with people who share these same values or who are open and willing to learn. This will make being able to sustainably travel easier, as they will be intentionally looking to follow this value and prioritize these steps. It’s okay if the people you’re traveling with are new to sustainability and eco-travel. As long as they are open to learning, this could be a great opportunity to share these tips and others you may have from trip experiences.
9. Learn About Local History & Culture
Museums and community events featured by the library or the city will often be a great starting point to learn about local history and culture. While all of the tourist activities will help show you the city, it might not be the full picture of what the place you’re going to has to offer and who the people are.
10. Have Fun!
Most importantly, while you’re traveling, have fun! If you accidentally make a choice that isn’t eco-friendly, that’s okay. It’s important to have grace with yourself and recognize that you’re imperfect. Trying to make better environmental choices with the resources and knowledge you have at the time is what’s important. The first time I travelled internationally I made so many non-sustainable choices. A lot of it was because I didn’t know that I would need certain things that I hadn’t planned for. The other reason being that there were limitations. Things like this happen and it’s okay. There’s always an opportunity to try again!
