Sustainable travel is easier than you may think. Here are five tips for an eco-friendly getaway:

1. Choose your destination wisely. Many locales offer opportunities for eco-friendly adventures. The Global Destination Sustainability Index rankings recommend cities based on sustainability scores. Destinations that aren’t traditional tourist hotspots can offer unique experiences that remain untouched by mass tourism. Alternately, you may want to consider staying close to home. While we often overlook our own backyards, a staycation is a hassle-free way to enjoy some time off without leaving a significant environmental footprint.
2. Look for sustainable lodging. Many accommodations prioritize sustainability. From luxury resorts to solar-powered cabins and eco-friendly hostels, there are options for all types of travelers. If you opt for a hotel, be sure to research their practices and choose those that have implemented water-saving measures, use renewable energy, and commit to supporting the environment and local communities. Check for certifications like LEED, Green Key, or EarthCheck to verify a hotel’s sustainability practices. You may want to consider smaller-scale inns, and short-term rentals like Airbnb, Homestays, and guest houses that have a gentler environmental impact. According to Airbnb, its listings waste less—and consume less water and energy—than traditional hotel accomodations.³
3. Rethink your itinerary and transportation. Staying longer in fewer places and choosing trains, buses, or electric vehicles, when possible, are effective ways to minimize emissions. In places like Europe, rail travel is not only eco-friendly, but also offers a scenic way to explore. Many hotels support sustainable transportation by providing EV charging stations, bike rentals, and shuttle services. When possible, choosing to bike or walk lets you fully experience the local beauty and culture.
4. Keep it Local. Once you’ve arrived, keep your trip eco-friendly by opting for local restaurants, shops, and activities. “Farm to table” eating supports sustainable agriculture and reduces the carbon emissions associated with long-distance food transportation. Support your host community by shopping from local artisans. Seek activities and tour guides that help preserve the local heritage. Preserve nature with eco-friendly activities like hiking or canoeing. And be sure to inquire about the local “do’s and don’ts” such as wearing sunscreen that isn’t reef-safe so you don’t inadvertently damage your surroundings.
5. Do Good. Look for meaningful ways to give back to the communities you visit. A beach cleanup is a fun and easy conservation project. Save some extra room in your luggage, and pack items that can be used by those in need at your destination. Pack for a Purpose works with hotels and tour companies worldwide to arrange for traveler donations of supplies that support local education, health, child welfare, animal welfare, socioeconomic development, and senior welfare. No matter how you decide to contribute, you’ll feel good knowing you can leave a place better than you found it.

With a little extra planning, you can determine which sustainable practices work best for you. By embracing responsible tourism, you’ll reduce your environmental impact while enjoying unique experiences that create lasting memories.

As you plan your sustainable travels, don’t forget to protect them with travel insurance.

¹ “Latest Booking.com Sustainable Travel Data Reveals Ongoing Challenges for Consumers & Highlights a Heightened Opportunity for Cross-Industry Collaboration,” Sustainable Travel Report 2024, booking.com.
² Bas Fransen, “How to Travel Sustainably: A Guide for Eco-Conscious Explorers,” ecomatcher.com, February 24, 2024.
³ How the Airbnb Community Supports Environmentally-Friendly Travel Worldwide, news.airbnb.com, accessed October 2024.