For those who have a trip booked or are planning one, here are five things to keep in mind while making plans to have more sustainable traveling.

I’ll be traveling this summer to The Channel Islands and sustainable travel is a major priority for me. While I am still learning how to best implement this practice these are the principles that have helped me better understand “sustainable travel” during the planning process. I’ll write a follow-up blog post when I’m on vacation about how I maintain sustainable living while away from home and in a new environment.

How To Travel Sustainably:

The New York Times wrote “as a general rule, the shorter the distance from home you travel, the lower your carbon footprint. But if you want to go farther, some destinations are more sustainable than others.” Since summer 2021 is more travel-friendly than this time last year, many of us will be traveling.

Planning for a sustainable vacation trip

1. Understand Transportation Where You’re Going

While having your own car can be luxurious, do you really need it? Look into the proximity and safety of public transportation. Can you get around via bus, subway, train, or even bike? If you know anyone in the area you’re traveling to, see if you can carpool!

2. Car Rental

If you’re renting a car, see if there is an electric option. If there isn’t, choose an appropriately sized car for your needs. If you’re traveling solo, book a 2 door vehicle. You can also rent a car on certain days or for half of the trip. If you use the tip above, you’ll have a clear understanding of the destinations you may absolutely need a car to get to—so, book a vehicle on those days if necessary.

3. Book Non-Stop Flights When Possible

Booking non-stop flights will help to reduce your carbon footprint while traveling if you opt for a non-stop flight versus a connecting flight or one with multiple flights to your destination.

You Might Like: I Challenged Myself To Live Sustainably For 1 Month. Here’s How It Went

4. Research Specific Eco-Friendly, Sustainable, & Ethical Options Around Your Destination

Planning Your Own Trip

If you’re planning the trip without an agent/agency, utilize the internet. Google is a fabulous resource to connect us with blogs, companies, and individuals that can give us the answers we’re (quite literally) searching for.

Booking With A Travel Agent

Use Relevant And Subject-Specific Keywords When Researching.

If you’re working with a travel agency, reach out to your travel agent specifically saying you want to book sustainably (or as sustainably as their connections allow). It’s their job to help you find the best stay, activities, and more. Often times are 110% more knowledgable (especially if they’re exclusively a sustainable travel agent) on this style of travel.

5. Know How To Research For What You Will Actually Do

As mentioned above, researching a bit beforehand if you’re planning your own trip will be beneficial in ensuring your trip has eco-friendly elements. If you’ve never performed this kind of search before, here are some keywords to use. I have used the word “destination” in all caps as a placeholder. When you copy the list items, replace DESTINATION with where you’re going. Interchange the destination for the nearest city if you’re not going to one and see if other locations come up, too.