What is Sustainable Travel?
Let me start by saying this: I didn't always care about sustainable travel. A few years ago, I was that person who bought plastic water bottles at every airport, stayed at big chain hotels without thinking about their environmental impact, and took connecting flights to save $50. But then I had a wake-up call.
I was traveling in Thailand and visited a beach that used to be pristine. It was covered in plastic waste—mostly from tourists. I watched as a local volunteer spent hours cleaning up trash that had washed up from cruise ships and tourist boats. That day, I realized something: my travel habits were contributing to this problem.
Since then, I've completely changed how I travel. It's not about being perfect—I still have a long way to go—but it's about making conscious choices that reduce my impact. This guide is a compilation of everything I've learned over the years, from the mistakes I've made to the strategies that actually work.
I travel frequently for both work and personal reasons, averaging 10-15 trips a year across multiple continents. Over the past 5 years, I've gradually transitioned from a typical tourist to someone who tries to travel more sustainably. I've made plenty of mistakes along the way, and I've learned that sustainable travel isn't about deprivation—it's about making better choices.
Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation (But Don't Overthink It)
I used to book the cheapest hotel I could find, regardless of its environmental practices. But then I stayed at an eco-lodge in Costa Rica that completely changed my perspective. They used solar power, collected rainwater, and had a zero-waste policy. The best part? It wasn't more expensive than a typical hotel.
Now, I look for accommodations with eco-certifications or sustainable practices. But here's the thing: I don't stress if I can't find the perfect eco-friendly option. Sometimes, the best choice is just choosing a hotel that doesn't use single-use plastics or one that supports local staff.
One small thing that made a surprising difference for me was asking hotels about their sustainability practices. Many hotels are doing more than they advertise, and a simple question can help you make a better choice.
Use Public Transportation (When It Makes Sense)
I used to rent cars everywhere I went because it felt more convenient. But then I visited Amsterdam and realized how easy it was to get around by bike and public transit. I ended up saving money, reducing my carbon footprint, and seeing more of the city than I would have from a car.
Now, I try to use public transportation whenever possible. But I also recognize that sometimes a rental car is the practical choice—especially in rural areas or when traveling with kids. The key is being intentional about the choice rather than defaulting to what's easiest.
My rule of thumb: If public transit is available and reasonably efficient, I'll use it. If it's going to take me 3 hours to get somewhere that would take 30 minutes by car, I'll reconsider.
Walk or Bike When Possible (And Actually Enjoy It)
This is one I had to learn the hard way. I used to rush everywhere, trying to see as much as possible. But then I spent a week in Kyoto, and I decided to slow down. I walked everywhere, biked to nearby temples, and took my time. It was one of the most enjoyable trips I've ever had.
Walking or biking isn't just good for the environment—it also allows you to experience a place at a slower pace. You notice things you'd miss from a car or bus. The smell of street food cooking, the sound of a local musician, the way the light hits a building at sunset.
One thing I've learned: bring comfortable shoes. I once spent a day walking around Rome in sandals, and my feet were so sore I could barely walk the next day. Lesson learned.
Reduce Single-Use Plastics (Start Small)
I used to go through dozens of plastic water bottles on every trip. Then I calculated how much plastic I was using, and I was horrified. Now, I bring a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and utensils everywhere I go.
But here's the thing: I didn't start by trying to eliminate all single-use plastics. I started small—just a reusable water bottle. Once that became a habit, I added a shopping bag. Then utensils. Now, I rarely use single-use plastics, and it feels completely normal.
One small thing that made a surprising difference for me was choosing a water bottle with a wide mouth—it fills faster and makes adding ice much easier. It's a small detail, but it makes the habit stickier.
Support Local Businesses (It Makes a Difference)
I used to eat at chain restaurants and shop at big stores because they felt familiar. But then I visited a small town in Portugal where I ate at a local family restaurant every day. The food was better, the prices were lower, and I got to know the family who ran it.
Now, I make a point to support local businesses whenever possible. I eat at local restaurants, shop at local markets, and use local tour operators. Not only does it support the local economy, but it also gives me a more authentic travel experience.
One trick I use: ask locals for recommendations. They always know the best places—ones that aren't in guidebooks or on TripAdvisor.
Respect Local Culture and Wildlife (It's Not Optional)
This should go without saying, but I've seen too many tourists disrespect local customs and wildlife. I once watched a tourist try to feed a wild monkey in Thailand, and the monkey ended up biting them. It was completely preventable.
Now, I always research local customs before I visit a place. I learn about appropriate dress, tipping practices, and cultural taboos. And when it comes to wildlife, I keep a safe distance and never feed animals.
One thing I've learned: if you're not sure about something, ask. Most locals appreciate when tourists make an effort to be respectful, even if they don't get everything right.
Conserve Resources (Small Actions Add Up)
I used to leave the air conditioning on all day in my hotel room, leave lights on when I went out, and take long, hot showers. But then I stayed at an eco-lodge where they tracked their resource usage, and I realized how wasteful I was being.
Now, I make a conscious effort to conserve resources. I turn off lights and air conditioning when I leave my room, take shorter showers, and reuse towels instead of requesting new ones every day.
One small thing that made a surprising difference for me was setting a timer on my phone for showers. It keeps me mindful of how long I'm taking, and I've cut my shower time in half.
Offset Your Carbon Footprint (But Recognize It's Not a Silver Bullet)
I used to think that offsetting my carbon emissions made up for all my travel. But then I learned that offsetting should be the last resort, not the first choice. Reducing your footprint comes first.
Now, I still offset my carbon emissions for flights, but I also recognize that it's not a perfect solution. I choose reputable offset programs that fund renewable energy or reforestation projects, and I try to reduce my emissions in other ways first.
One thing I've learned: not all offset programs are created equal. Do your research and choose ones that are transparent about where your money goes.
Travel Light (It's Easier Than You Think)
I used to pack everything I thought I might need, just in case. But then I took a trip to Europe with just a carry-on, and I realized how much easier it was. I didn't have to check bags, I could move around more easily, and I actually enjoyed the trip more.
Now, I pack light whenever possible. Not only does it reduce the weight of the plane, which reduces fuel consumption, but it also makes travel more enjoyable. I can move around more easily, and I spend less time worrying about my luggage.
One trick I use: lay out everything you think you need, then put half of it back. You almost never need as much as you think.
Educate Yourself and Others (Share What You Learn)
I used to think that sustainable travel was just about my own actions. But then I realized that sharing what I learn can have a bigger impact than just my individual choices.
Now, I make a point to educate myself about sustainable travel practices and share what I learn with others. I write about it on my blog, talk about it with friends, and even mention it to fellow travelers I meet on the road.
One thing I've learned: people are often interested in sustainable travel but don't know where to start. Sharing simple, actionable tips can make a real difference.
Choose Direct Flights (When Practical)
I used to always choose the cheapest flight, even if it meant multiple connections. But then I learned that takeoffs and landings are the most fuel-intensive parts of a flight, so direct flights are actually better for the environment.
Now, I try to choose direct flights when the price difference isn't too significant. But I also recognize that sometimes connecting flights are necessary or much cheaper, and I don't beat myself up about it.
My rule of thumb: if a direct flight is less than $100 more expensive, I'll choose it. If it's significantly more expensive, I'll consider other factors like time and convenience.
Stay Longer in One Place (Slow Travel)
I used to try to see as many places as possible on every trip. But then I spent a month in one city in Mexico, and I realized how much more I got out of the experience. I got to know locals, find hidden gems, and really understand the culture.
Now, I try to stay longer in one place instead of hopping from destination to destination. Not only does it reduce my carbon footprint, but it also gives me a more meaningful travel experience.
One thing I've learned: slow travel isn't for everyone. Some people prefer seeing many places in a short time, and that's okay. The key is being intentional about your choices.
Avoid Over-Touristed Areas (Consider Alternatives)
I used to want to visit all the famous places—Venice, Machu Picchu, the Great Barrier Reef. But then I visited some of these places and found them crowded, expensive, and degraded by overtourism.
Now, I consider visiting less popular destinations instead. Not only does it reduce the impact of overtourism, but it also often leads to more authentic experiences. I've discovered amazing places I never would have found if I'd stuck to the tourist trail.
One small thing that made a surprising difference for me was researching "second cities" or "hidden gems" before I visit a country. I've found some of my favorite destinations this way.
Use Eco-Friendly Products (It's Easier Than Ever)
I used to use whatever toiletries and cleaning products were available, regardless of their environmental impact. But then I learned about the chemicals in many conventional products and how they can harm water systems and marine life.
Now, I bring eco-friendly toiletries and cleaning products whenever possible. Solid shampoo bars, bamboo toothbrushes, and reef-safe sunscreen are now part of my travel kit.
One thing I've learned: you don't have to switch everything at once. Start with one or two products, and gradually replace others as you run out.
Volunteer During Your Trip (Give Back)
I used to think that volunteering was something you did on a dedicated volunteer trip, not during regular travel. But then I spent a day volunteering at a sea turtle conservation project in Costa Rica, and it was one of the highlights of my trip.
Now, I consider volunteering with a local conservation or community project during my trips. It doesn't have to be a major commitment—even a few hours can make a difference.
One thing I've learned: research volunteer opportunities carefully. Some are well-organized and genuinely helpful, while others can be more about tourism than actual conservation.
Conclusion
Sustainable travel isn't about being perfect. It's about making conscious choices that reduce your impact while still allowing you to explore and enjoy the world. I've made plenty of mistakes along the way, and I'm still learning every day.
Remember: The goal isn't to never have an environmental impact—that's impossible. The goal is to reduce your impact where you can and make better choices when you have options.
On this site, I share practical travel advice based on real experiences—not generic checklists. Whether it's sustainable travel, navigating airports, or finding the best deals on flights, my goal is to help you travel smarter and more responsibly.
After all, the best way to protect the places we love is to travel in a way that ensures they'll be there for future generations to enjoy too.