Top 10 Tips for Sustainable Travel

Man sitting at airport with legs on suitcase (source)

It probably goes without saying - we love to travel. It broadens the mind, encourages new ways of thinking, helps us explore new cultures and form new relationships and, of course, it gives us the chance to relax and recharge.

However, arguably the biggest downside to travelling is that it can have a large carbon footprint, which should require us to make smarter choices when we go globetrotting. The good news is - there are ways to be a greener traveller without making huge sacrifices.

Here are our top 10 tips to help you be a sustainable traveller in 2023 and beyond.

Train at the station - mainland Europe offers many cross-country rail routes (source)

If you want to travel between mainland Europe or from the UK to France, Belgium or the Netherlands, you can of course take the train to your destination. It might take a little longer than flying, but it's often cheaper and easier (especially if you book with Trip.com). In addition, you'll get lovely views along the way, and no turbulence.

At your destination, avoid driving or taking taxis unless you're out of public transport options. For all other transport, use the bus, train, or tram. Walk or bike to places wherever possible, particularly in cities, as this can offset your carbon footprint even further and give you some fun physical activities too.

For long-distance travel, flights are pretty much the only option. But there are ways that even this fuel-hungry travel method can be counteracted to the green-minded traveller.

It's true that flying comes with a large carbon footprint - however, you can offset that by choosing low-emission flights. This is possible when you book your flight with Trip.com, as you'll be able to select the "low-emission flights" option when browsing your journey possibilities.

We at Trip.com are always looking at other ways to help offset your carbon footprint while flying, so always keep an eye out for new updates on our website and app!

Your hotel room choice can be more climate-friendly (source)

Did you know that hotels can be sustainable too? While your comfort and convenience are priorities, you should also look for accommodation that has eco-friendly practices wherever possible.

When looking at the hotel descriptions on Trip.com, be sure to check for eco-friendly activities and services. Also, why not do some digging and check that the places you're interested in use renewable energy, conserve water, and have recycling programs. These actions show that they're proactive in helping you be a responsible traveller.

Eco-tourism is a type of eco-conscious travel that not only conserves the environment, but helps the lives of local residents too. Check out some of the tours we host on Trip.com - for example, the half-day eco-tour in Villimale gives you an educational look at local conservation work and a glimpse of traditional food at a local cafe.

Eco-tourism doesn't always involve trekking into nature either, so if that's not interesting to you, then this should be good news. For instance, you can still tour a large city such as Florence in Italy, but do so in an environmentally-friendly way by booking an eco-tour with electric golf carts.

A few places to consider for eco-tourism include Costa Rica, Norway, Iceland, the Galapagos Islands, and Palau.

We know - overtourism is usually a result of a unique destination being too appealing. However, this can lead to a lower quality of life for locals, even though tourism brings in big money for the economy. It can also make what should be an exciting trip just a little less enticing.

Fortunately, there are excellent alternatives to popular destinations that allow you to fully enjoy your holiday without throngs of people. You'll also help economies that are in need.

Here's a list of well-known places and their alternatives:

● Amsterdam, the Netherlands: Utrecht, the Netherlands

● Santorini, Greece: Naxos, Greece

● Bali, Indonesia: Lombok, Indonesia

● Venice, Italy: Ljubljana, Slovenia

● Barcelona, Spain: Valencia, Spain

● Machu Picchu, Peru: Choquequirao, Peru

● Dubrovnik, Croatia: Split, Croatia

● New York City, New York, USA: Portland, Oregon, USA

Moraine Lake at Banff National Park (source)

Numerous national parks and protected areas around the world prioritise sustainability and eco-friendly tourism practices - and are usually amongst the most naturally beautiful places on earth - so why wouldn't you give them a visit?

For example, there's Banff National Park, Canada's oldest (and arguably most beautiful) national park. It's located in the Canadian Rockies, and you'll enjoy breathtaking landscapes, alpine meadows, and turquoise lakes. Or you can visit the illustrious Yellowstone National Park in the US, where you'll witness geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.

For something more tropical, head to the Arenal Volcano National Park in Costa Rica. And for the adventurous at heart, a dip in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia - on a sustainable tour, of course - is an incredible experience.

Deer next to a bush (source)

While you're spending time at the parks and protected areas, make sure you respect wildlife and nature. It's understandable that it's exciting to see rare animals up close and personal, but be mindful and always follow instructions. Never leave anything behind!

Remember that these creatures are wild and can be easily spooked - or worse, angered. Refrain from participating in activities that harm animals or disturb their habitats. This means choosing wildlife encounters that are ethical and sustainable, so be sure to do your research whenever you choose a holiday involving animal interaction.

Although it can be more difficult while travelling, it's possible to avoid single-use plastic items, or at least reduce your usage of these things. Pack a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and utensils to make this easier.

In addition, you should dispose of waste properly, recycling whenever possible. Bring a few empty trash bags to put in your purse or backpack so you can hold onto your waste and dispose of it properly later on if there aren't any recycling facilities where you're visiting.

Close-up of a water ripple (source)

If you're in a hot country, you might take a long cooling shower and turn the air conditioning as low as it can go. You might even leave it on while you're out so it's nice and cold when you get back.

However, you should still be mindful of your energy and water usage in accommodations. Turn off the lights, air conditioning, and heating when they're not needed. You should also take short showers.

Wherever you go, local businesses can always use some help. Even though you may find more convenient chains with low prices, it's worth heading to smaller, locally-owned places.

By opting for smaller restaurants and shops, you'll contribute to the local economy and promote cultural exchange. Not to mention, you'll receive more personalised services and experience the customers and traditions. It'll be a great lesson on local heritage.

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