Wilderness-Friendly Travel

15 Simple Tips to Reduce Your Climate Impact

Travelling sustainably doesn’t have to be complicated. Even small, conscious choices can make a big difference. Here are 15 easy-to-follow tips to help you reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying your adventures, arranged from easiest to most challenging.

If you want to read more on sustainable tourism before you dive in, click here to read! And make sure to check out our project on smart tourism SMARTOUR or on Carpathian Sustainable Tourism in Ukraine.

1. Bring a reusable water bottle

Carry a reusable bottle and refill it instead of buying plastic ones. This simple swap helps reduce plastic waste and is more convenient.

2. Pack reusable items

Pack reusable straws, cutlery, and tote bags to minimise your use of single-use plastics. These are light, easy to pack, and cut down waste during your trip.

3. Choose eco-certified hotels

Search for hotels certified by trusted organisations like Green Globe or EarthCheck. These hotels prioritise sustainability through reduced energy use and eco-friendly practices.

4. Take shorter showers

Quick showers use significantly less water than baths and help conserve resources, especially in areas facing water scarcity.

5. Walk, bike, or use public transport

Walking or biking to explore your destination is eco-friendly and lets you experience the area like a local. Public transport is also a great way to cut down on emissions.

6. Support local businesses

Support the local economy by shopping at small, locally owned businesses and dining at local restaurants. This not only boosts the community but reduces the environmental impact of imported goods.

7. Travel in the off-season

Visit destinations in the off-season to reduce the strain on local resources and avoid overcrowding. You’ll enjoy quieter experiences and support year-round income for locals.

8. Avoid cruise ships

Cruise ships are among the most polluting modes of transport, contributing to air and water pollution. Land-based travel or train journeys are much more sustainable options.

9. Offset your carbon footprint

If flying is unavoidable, use carbon offset schemes to neutralise your emissions. Platforms like Atmosfair or MyClimate fund renewable energy projects and reforestation.

10. Choose direct flights

Direct flights are more energy-efficient than those with layovers, as take-offs and landings consume the most fuel. Book direct when you can.

11. Stay longer at one destination

Slower travel minimises emissions from transport and allows you to connect more deeply with the local culture and community.

12. Be mindful of wildlife

Avoid attractions that exploit animals, such as elephant rides or tiger selfies. Enjoy wildlife responsibly by observing them in their natural habitats.

13. Ask about sustainability practices

Choose tours and accommodations that actively support sustainable tourism. Ask about their environmental policies or how they give back to the community.

14. Leave no trace

Stick to marked trails, avoid littering, and never take natural items as souvenirs. Respect nature and ensure you leave your destination as pristine as you found it.

15. Advocate for sustainable tourism

Share your sustainable travel experiences with others to inspire change. Talk about eco-friendly practices and encourage others to travel responsibly.

Conclusion

Travelling sustainably is not just an ethical choice; it’s a way to preserve the planet’s natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations. By implementing even a few of these tips, you can minimise your environmental impact, support local communities, and inspire others to adopt greener habits.

Every small step matters, from packing reusable items to choosing eco-friendly accommodations or offsetting your carbon emissions. Together, these changes can lead to a more sustainable and respectful way of exploring the world. Start today—your next adventure can be as fulfilling for you as it is beneficial for the planet.