Travel is transformative. Experiencing different cultures, seeing unique places, and trying new foods is time and money well spent. But it's also important to travel sustainably, minimizing your environmental footprint, reducing the negative impacts of tourism, and maximizing the positive benefits to the countries and communities you visit. Not sure how to get started? We've got you covered. Here are ten sustainable travel tips to implement on your next adventure.
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1. Choose Sustainable Accommodations and Tour Operators
One of our top sustainable travel tips is choosing a sustainable tour operator. Invest money in companies that lower their environmental impact and support the well-being of local communities. However, keep in mind that just because a company claims to be committed to eco-friendly travel and sustainable tourism doesn't necessarily mean they're green or sustainable.
Research companies' practices and policies and ask questions if they're unclear. Do they have energy and water conservation practices in place? Did they eliminate single-use plastics, or are they working toward it? Do they promote diversity and inclusion in their staff? Do they employ local people for top jobs? Do they utilize local suppliers and producers for food and supplies? These are all important topics to consider when choosing a sustainable tour operator.
2. Respect Local Culture
Traveling to new destinations means immersing yourself in new cultures, but responsible travel is essential. Through travel, you get a unique peek into traditions and ways of life in a new place. Research the location's etiquette before arriving. Learn a few local phrases to communicate with locals. Dress appropriately and be mindful of religious sites. Some places require taking off shoes, covering shoulders, or even speaking quietly. Adapt to and respect local cultures. This includes asking for permission before snapping photos of locals.
3. Use an eSIM Instead of a Physical SIM Card
Using an eSIM over a SIM card is one of the most useful sustainable travel tips on the list. An eSIM (or embedded SIM) serves the same function as a physical SIM card but is built into your device and works 100% digitally. Instead of picking up a local SIM card everywhere you travel (many of which will be single-use), you can purchase an eSIM plan, install it on your device, and instantly connect to a mobile network. This digital upload reduces CO2 by eliminating the need for physical plastic cards, their packaging, and transport logistics.
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4. Bring Your Own Water Bottle
A shocking eight million metric tons of pieces of plastic end up in oceans every year. Cut back on plastic waste by traveling with a reusable water bottle. This eco-friendly travel tip is easy to do.
Some countries don't have the infrastructure to keep up with plastic trash left by humans. Refrain from contributing to overflowing landfills by avoiding single-use plastics. Simply bring your own refillable bottle when traveling. If the water quality at the destination is a concern, bring a water bottle with a built-in purifier.
5. Use Efficient Public Transportation
Green travel trips are vital to the environment. There are a few different ways to reduce the carbon emissions produced by travel. While planes, cars, and other forms of transport are the most significant part of a tourist's carbon footprint, some modes of transportation are cleaner and more efficient than others.
Consider using public transportation, like trains, trams, buses, or bicycles, instead of renting a car. If a car is necessary, consider renting a hybrid, electric, or at least a smaller model.
6. Choose Airlines Wisely
One of many helpful green travel tips to consider is choosing airlines wisely. Fly with an airline that invests in biofuels. Flying is the least eco-friendly mode of transportation. However, a plane is sometimes the only way to get from one destination to the next. If traveling by air, check out airlines that invest in clean, biofuel technology. A few to look into include KLM, Lufthansa, and American Airlines.
Biofuels are comprised of plant oils, wood chips, and agricultural waste. Using these types of renewable biofuel instead of fossil fuels can lower carbon emissions by up to 80%.
7. Visit Parks, but Leave as Little Trace as Possible
Visiting national parks and protected areas is fun and a valuable learning experience. These natural areas are important for the world's natural resources and biodiversity, and many countries rely on tourism fees to keep these places safe for wildlife. Fees associated with visiting help fund conservation efforts and provide jobs and income to local people.
If hiking or camping in protected areas, make sure to follow green travel tips, such as hiking on designated trails only, respecting wildlife, and going to the bathroom at least 50 meters from any water source.
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8. Shop Locally
Who doesn't love shopping while on vacation? While traveling, shop local when you can. This sustainable travel tip is a fun one! Shopping locally is the perfect chance to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home and remember your travels. Plus, it promotes sustainable tourism by supporting the local community.
Similarly, dine at restaurants run by locals. This supports the local economy and reduces the negative impact of products shipped from outside the country, which causes air and water pollution.
9. Conserve Water and Energy
Tourists use water and energy for heating, lighting, and electricity, which can strain local water supplies and energy infrastructure. While visiting new places, practice responsible travel by conserving water and energy resources. Don't let water run when not using it. Opt for a quick shower instead of a bath. Turn off lights, the TV, and all other electronics when not in use.
More eco-friendly travel tips include staying in smaller, more basic accommodation or a higher-end place that has energy and water efficiency procedures in place.
10. Travel Slowly
It's easy to get excited when traveling to new places. There's so much to see and do, but sometimes it's better to slow down and get to really know a destination. Instead of a multi-city or multi-country trek, try relaxing in one place for a more extended period. Slowing down helps travelers experience a new place, get to know the local people, and immerse themselves in their culture. Enjoy a variety of new experiences, like new foods, museums, local coffee shops, and bars! Relax and enjoy!
Ready to start traveling more sustainably? Get started on your sustainable travel journey by using an eSIM to stay connected. Browse eSIMs for 200+ countries and regions worldwide on the Airalo app (iOS | Android) and website.
