A Guide to Becoming a Sustainable Traveler
by Marc Gadea
If you are determined to become a more sustainable traveler and know more about sustainable travel tips, this is the ultimate guide for absolute beginners to this concept. We are about to take you on an immersive journey to discover the importance of embracing sustainability in your next travel experience.
“Responsible travel is not only better for our world, but it’s also more interesting and memorable. Responsible tourism is the future of travel”. -Simon Reeve (author)
Choose a Meaningful Destination
This is perhaps the most determining decision of your sustainable travel experience. We all know popular travel destinations like Paris or London. Instead however, look for alternative routes and discover unique places.
What about spending a week in a national park close to your home or maybe taking on an exploration trip to know your ancestor’s origins? Most of the time, travel is more about the people you encounter than the place you are going to.
Take Care of Your Transportation
We all know how easy and fast we can fly from one place to another. To become a more sustainable traveler however, it’s better to consider other options. For example, you can check for ride share apps, trains, or local buses.
If you must fly, choose direct flights whenever possible, as takeoffs and landings are the most intense carbon emission contributors.
Respect the Local Culture
When you travel to local places or remote areas, it’s essential to respect the locals. The cultural differences can be massive, but this is one of the most beautiful things about sustainable traveling. Most of the time, you will find friendly people ready to help you and share their lifestyle.
Minimize Your Travel Equipment
There are a lot of ways to minimize your travel equipment. One of the best options is to consider backpacking when traveling to tropical places. It will save you time and money during your sustainable travel experience.
If you still need to carry luggage, consider eco-friendly options and never buy a new suitcase. Instead, ask your family or friends if they have one that can suit your travel needs.
Support Local Businesses
To become a sustainable traveler, we encourage you to eat in local restaurants and choose family-owned accommodations. Also, you can support local economies by buying local products. Go to markets, explore the art and culture of the area, and try local food from farmers.
These small actions will help to develop local tourism and create a positive impact on the communities.
Stay in Eco-Friendly Accommodations
There are plenty of eco-friendly accommodations found in most travel destinations around the world. Look for hotels or guesthouses that prioritize sustainability. Check if they have green certifications, use renewable energy sources, have water conservation measures, or practice waste reduction and recycling.
You can also consider alternative accommodation options like eco-lodges, farm stays, or homestays for a more immersive experience.
Enjoy the Journey
Sustainable travel is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. Start with small steps and gradually incorporate more sustainable practices into your travel habits. The collective effort of many travelers can make a significant difference in preserving our planet for future generations.
As travelers, we have the power to shape the future of tourism. by making conscious decisions, and educating ourselves and others. Also, by adopting sustainable travel practices, we can minimize our ecological footprint, reduce carbon emissions and support a more inclusive and equitable tourism industry.
In conclusion, we encourage aspiring sustainable travelers to embrace this new approach to travel and hope you find this guide inspiring for your next sustainable travel journey.
All photos courtesy of Unsplash.