12 Tips to Travel More Sustainably

It’s no secret that I love to travel, but I’d be lying if I didn’t feel some definite guilt on the fact that traveling contributes to carbon emissions and does have a negative impact on our planet. However, I also like to remind myself about all of the net positives that travel can have on destinations and the special people that live there by contributing to local economies, local causes and conservation efforts. Traveling is also so healthy for us personally in that it’s a wonderful way to experience new cultures and connect with different people to make our world feel smaller (and lighter). One of my favorite travel quotes is:

“Your assumptions are your windows on the world. Scrub them off every once in awhile, or the light won’t come in.” -Alan Aida

On this Earth day, I’m sharing 12 tips for those of you wanting to find ways to minimize your impact on our amazing planet when traveling. There are so many easy ways out there to cut out single use plastics, save water and energy, and reduce damage to the amazing landscapes, seascapes and wildlife that we travel to enjoy. Little by little, we can start making big differences.

Bring your own reusable water bottle! Fill it up the airport, resort, wherever you can. And bonus, you’ll feel so much better physically by hydrating after those long travel days or stretches in the sun and fresh air.
Pack your own reusable straw and even a reusable cup for cocktails. Plus your beverage will stay colder.
Remember your reusable bags when shopping. These are light and easy to pack.
Use Reef Safe sunscreen! Chemicals in sunscreens are killing coral reefs and it’s best to use mineral based sunscreens that use physical UVA and UVB filters to help prevent sun damage. Look for the active ingredients: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and avoid these ingredients: Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Homosalate and parabens. You can visit this Reef Safe Guide for more information on the best products to buy.
Rent a bike, or walk to see the sights!
Take a trip to give back by participating in voluntourism programs like beach clean ups, native tree plantings and coral reef restoration. One example is the Mālama Hawaiʻi Program and you can even qualify for discounts or free nights just by participating.
Opt out of having your sheets and towels replenished daily. This will save on water and electricity.
When you leave your room, make sure to turn off the lights, TV and adjust the AC setting so it’s not frigid.
Support local whenever you can! Choose restaurants that source local ingredients, small businesses that promote local guides and shops selling local goods.
Stay at hotels and resorts that meet sustainability criteria and participate in reputable, independently verified programs for eco-friendly designations. I can help recommend several great options. Components of this include making sure they are invested in local communities, participating in energy and water conservation, using native plants for landscaping, featuring local food (or an onsite greenhouse) in their restaurants and donating to food banks.
Offset your carbon emissions by purchasing carbon credits. T errapass is one recommended source for this and they even feature a carbon calculator on their website.
”Take only pictures, leave only bubbles”. When encountering wildlife on a hiking or snorkeling adventure, admire from a distance.

What’s your favorite sustainable travel tip? I’d love to know and if you’re interested in booking a vacation, please reach out to me at [email protected] or fill out a quote request here.