Everyone has a preferred travel style that suits their lifestyle, whether it’s backpacking around the world or staying in five-star luxury hotels.
The adventurers enjoy the opportunity to escape the monotony of school, work and other responsibilities and go on a trip whenever they feel like it.
Just because you could travel anywhere you wanted (at least when the world was normal), does not mean you should. Travelling is ironic because many people say they love the environment, but use environmentally harmful methods to get around.
You don’t want even to consider leaving behind your passion for travel. No one says to stop traveling. Ask yourself instead if there is a sustainable way of seeing the world.
Stay Close
The more you travel, it’s no surprise that you cause more environmental damage. Your carbon footprint if you fly from London to Sihanoukville, Cambodia is 2,93 tonnes CO2e. By the way, this is a lot of CO2e, even if you’re only going to the beach for a couple weeks.
Think about staying close to home instead of traveling across the globe. While the best UK beaches might not have the same exotic reputation of Southeast Asia and the South American coastlines, they can still provide you with the vacation you need. In the last year, staycations have been the only way to escape from home. And there is more to see at home than you think.
Use sustainable vehicles
If you can, explore eco-friendly alternatives to flying. Public transport is not something that most people like to do, especially when they’re looking forward to a luxurious holiday. However, it’s one of the greenest ways to travel.
You can also opt for an electric vehicle, with Private number plates. It is better to avoid petrol and the carbon emissions that come with it, but also find a place to charge your car overnight.
Research Eco-Friendly Destinations
If you must travel to distant destinations, it’s not a problem. But if this is the case, you should consider eco-friendly destinations. Palau is one of the few cities and countries that are focusing on improving their sustainability standing.
Before entering the island, tourists and travellers must sign the Palau Pledge. This pledge requires that they agree to preserve its natural and cultural heritage. This might not seem important to eco-conscious travelers, but it forces those who aren’t as eco-conscious to take their actions seriously.
Use eco-friendly platforms
People used to use TripAdvisor and Booking.com in the past to find the best hotel deals and flights. They are certainly convenient, but do they really help the environment?
You probably haven’t considered it. What is a travel agency platform? There are options for sustainable agents. Local is one of the most successful and popular. It helps you to travel with more sustainability . also identifies where you can do good for the local community.
Travel with Like-Minded People
Travelling with people who share your values can help you become a better eco-traveller. They will motivate you to improve and give you advice on how you can do better.
You will be influenced by their knowledge, and you will then pass it on to the next generation. This will ensure that the sustainability chain continues.
Check certifications
Many hotels and hostels make claims that they are eco-friendly or sustainable. And many of them actually are. Some accommodations use it to attract travellers, under the guise that they are good for the environment, but their actual practices may not be up to scratch.
Research certifications when looking for places to stay during your travels. This will give you a better idea of the sustainability of a location. Look out for the ECO Certification Program, but there are many others. They will vary by country.
Reduce your suitcase load
It’s fun to pack your suitcase or backpack with all the cute and functional clothes you can find, but it will increase the weight of your luggage, which could affect the load on planes or cars. You may also have to use more water when washing your clothes.
Even minor things can make a difference. Bring enough essentials for your trip to ensure you can survive. But don’t bring everything.
Give back once you’re there
You will be a better traveler if you always give back, wherever you are. You can follow the hostel’s guidelines for reducing electricity or water consumption, and volunteer in communities who are in need of help.
Your money can be used to support sustainable programs, wherever you may be. Choose an activity where your money will go back to the community rather than a tour guide, adventure company, or other service provider.
Loving the Planet and Living in Luxury
You can enjoy untold luxury without having to spend your entire paycheque for a hotel room or three-course dinner. You can go one step further if you really care about the environment. Traveling is not for everyone, but there are ways to travel that don’t harm the planet and you can even donate back to the communities.
