Increased climate awareness has a lot of us rethinking our everyday habits. Among the reusable grocery bags, metal straws, and plant-based diets, one of the hardest green changes to make is rethinking how, where, and even if we travel. Exploring new places and cultures is rewarding, but how do we handle the carbon emissions of travel?
If you’re not ready to give up travel altogether, there are ways you can significantly reduce your footprint while vacationing.
- Where to go: Find beautiful destinations closer to home or visit more sustainable destinations. A list of the most sustainable destinations compiled by sustainability organizations includes Slovenia, Spain, and Palau. Also consider destinations that would benefit most from your tourism dollars and book with sustainable, local accommodations. If you’re staying near a coast, choose a marine protected area or consider doing a beach clean up while you’re there!
- Getting around: Avoid flying. If you really can’t, longer flights are more sustainable than multiple small ones so consider direct transportation or go by car with a rideshare service. Once you reach your destination, consider walking or biking around the city rather than renting a car.
- Packing: Invest in biodegradable shampoos and sunscreen and remember to pack reusable water bottles, travel toiletries, and cutlery. Packing lighter will also reduce your carbon footprint as you travel and reduce the load you have to carry around.
- Eating: Opting to try the local vegetarian cuisine keeps your footprint down. Look for restaurants that serve locally sourced foods and pack daily snacks in reusable containers for when you’re out and about.
- Shopping: Many of us like to purchase souvenirs when we travel, but ask yourself about the product’s quality and impact before you invest. Shop for locally sourced products and remember your reusable shopping bag.
Giving up travel is a difficult step. Luckily, with these tips, you can travel more sustainably. Staying conscious of your impact on the environment even on vacation can make a big difference in your personal footprint.
