How to travel more sustainably
Originally written for and posted on the Give a Day Global Blog.
Who’s already planning their next trip?! I know I am. But more than ever, I am thinking about reducing my individual carbon footprint. The hard part is knowing how to do so and what is the most impactful. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips and tricks to travel more sustainably. We’ll include some sources as well, so you can do your additional research before planning a trip.
But first, what does traveling sustainability mean? It is defined by the UN Environment Program and UN World Tourism Organization as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.” Simply put, traveling sustainably is all about equilibrium between economic growth, human well-being, and environmental health.
Sounds complicated and daunting, but below are some things you can start doing now to be a better traveler:
How you go
According to the New York Times, “Transport is one of the biggest emitters of greenhouse gasses and other harmful pollutants.” Thinking about how you get to your destination and how you get around can really make an impact on leaving a lighter footprint.
Long story short, if you need to fly, the shorter the distance, the less efficient it is. To help make better decisions when looking at flights, check carbon emissions on Google Flights. This can help you decide if flying is the best option, or if you should find alternative means like driving or by train.
Once you’re at your destination, it is also important to think about whether there’s a more environmentally friendly way to enjoy the city:
Consider bike or walking tours.
If you’re on the water, sail instead of taking a power-engined boat.
Renting a car? Consider electric, or at least the smallest vehicle that suits your family’s needs.
Take public transit where possible. This is also a great way to meet local people.
Try carsharing, which can save money and emissions.
Consider activities that combine experience with environmental benefits, such as beach clean-ups.
Source: How to travel sustainably
Where you go
We’ve all done it. We’ve been at tourist hotspots that were being overrun by hordes of visitors, to get the perfect photo. But what if instead we traveled off the beaten path?
Sustainable Travel recommends visiting smaller cities or going to more rural areas. Doing so will reduce the burden on over-visited destinations, while spreading tourism benefits to other local communities. Supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs – like homestays, local guides and programs that give back to communities – help ensure your dollars stay in the local economy.
If you are set on traveling to a popular destination, consider scheduling your trip during the off-season. Check out this website which helps estimate the best times to avoid the crowds (!!!).
If you need some inspiration on where to go, TimeOut just released their world’s most sustainable travel destinations right now list.
Give a Day Global also has volunteer opportunities in 15 countries around the world. Check out our volunteer opportunities as you plan your next sustainable trip!
What you pack
After you’ve picked your destination, packing smart is the next important step to traveling more sustainably. You can do this in two ways:
(1) Consider a capsule wardrobe so you can mix and match outfits while remaining stylish. A capsule wardrobe allows you to pack less and make your luggage lighter / easier to transport. Don’t worry, you won’t have to compromise your style!
(2) Avoid single used plastics. Every year, 8 million metric tons of plastic ends up in our oceans. One of the easiest ways to reduce your single-use plastic consumption is to pack a reusable water bottle when you travel. The Good Trade recommends these 9 Eco-Friendly Water Bottles That Are Sleek and Sustainable.
Other reusable and environmentally friendly items that can lessen the trace you leave behind from New York Times:
Cutlery and small containers. Taking along a small container for snacks can help reduce your plastic consumption, as can reusable cutlery. If you’re short on space, even taking one item, such as a foldable spork, can help reduce your footprint.
Reusable straw. Plastic straws are known to harm wildlife and pollute the oceans, and in recent years have increasingly been replaced with alternatives, and in some cases, banned entirely. But with the travel industry lagging behind on these changes, you may want to consider bringing your own stainless steel or collapsible straw.
Toothbrush and toiletries. Choose a bamboo or biodegradable toothbrush, and bring soaps, shampoos and conditioners in refillable silicone bottles, like the GoToob from humangear, a San Francisco-based company that makes a number of travel-friendly products.
Sanitary products. Consider using a reusable silicone sanitary cup over disposable tampons, applicators and pads, which often contain plastic and other synthetic materials that can harm the environment.
Clothesline. Take a pegless clothesline to hang up on your balcony or in the bathroom for small laundry loads and delicates.
Kindle or iPad over books. Bringing your books along in digital form can lighten your load and save paper at the same time.
Tote bag. Pack a cloth bag for extra souvenirs, a day out or shopping. Doing so is likely to minimize picking up plastic bags along the way.
Cloth napkins. Using cloth instead of paper napkins means less trash every time you eat. Take a few along and pop them in with the laundry when they get dirty.
Sunscreen. Many sunscreens contain oxybenzone, which is toxic to the symbiotic algae that live within corals. Bring along a reef-safe option, such as Raw Elements, instead.
Soaps. Consider bringing along an all-use biodegradable soap such as Dr. Bronner’s, which can be used to wash your body, hair, dishes and clothing.
Ready to start planning? Wherever you decide to start your new adventure, there could be a wonderful one day volunteer opportunity to make it even more special. Learn more about the destinations and projects at Give A Day Global.