We’ve all heard it before: Travel responsibly. Sure, we know that travelling is an excellent way to explore our beautiful world; it provides unique experiences and opportunities to learn more about different cultures while allowing us to meet interesting people. But with environmental issues on the rise – from global warming to plastic pollution – there is a need for conscious travellers who take action in order to be greener when they travel. So what can you do? Below are some tips on how you can reduce your carbon footprint by making simple changes as a green traveller!

1. Choose a green hotel

When you’re planning your next trip, consider doing a bit of research ahead of booking your accommodation so you can make sure to find a sustainable hotel. A lot of hotels are taking steps to become more sustainable and environmentally conscious, implementing measures like reducing plastic waste, using renewable resources in their operations, and creating environmental initiatives like tree planting projects. Doing something as simple as looking out for the right certifications and keywords like “eco-friendly” when you shop around could help you find the perfect green getaway. Not only will it be good for the environment but you’ll have peace of mind that you’ve made an ethical choice when picking your hotel - bonus!

2. Pack lightly

Packing lightly as a green traveller can be a great way to explore the world, both for yourself and the planet. It may seem tricky at first but once you get used to it, you’ll realize that you have enough space in your suitcase to bring everything you need. More importantly, it will free up a lot of time, energy, and money which can be used while exploring - all of which the environment surely appreciates! Instead of bringing tons of stuff, focus on multi-functional items, quality over quantity, and durable pieces. This way your trips won't cost more than they should and you can reduce your environmental footprint while creating unique travel experiences.

3. Go for reusable utensils and containers

Reusable water bottles and food containers on a trip can be a great way to commit to sustainability. Not only do they reduce the amount of plastic waste, but they also save money in the long run. Reusable bottles are especially important when traveling to countries where water is not safe to drink from taps and you would otherwise be purchasing bottled water every day. Carrying reusable drinking and dining accessories during any journey can help create better habits while also helping reduce waste that would otherwise end up somewhere it shouldn’t.

4. Make your own food when you can

It's no surprise that travelling can be quite a daunting task when it comes to being environment-friendly. But fear not! Making your own food on the go will make for greener travels and best of all, won't create a dent in your wallet. Whether it may be kid-friendly greens, quick lunch sandwiches, or simple snacks that'll give you enough energy through the journey – with a little bit of creativity and planning, healthy, travel-friendly meals are well within reach. So start packing those reusable containers, and get ready for an eco-friendly adventure!

5. Use sustainable toiletries

Everyone knows the impact of traveling, both on the environment and our wallets. But it doesn't have to be that way! An excellent place to start is to consider sustainable alternatives when choosing toiletries. For instance, period underwear is an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative to sanitary pads or tampons and they take up very little space in your luggage. These versatile products can also be used for incontinence and light bladder leakage, making them a great investment for those with active lifestyles. Considering these types of sustainable options for your travel necessities will help you tread a little lighter in this world without compromising convenience or comfort.

6. Bring some eco bags for shopping

To help foster a more sustainable lifestyle – both for the green traveller and the environment – investing in reusable eco bags is an important step. Made from sturdy, eco-friendly materials such as cotton, jute, or linen, these bags are multi-functional, highly practical, and great for protecting your goods. Not only that, but they also look great! With their colorful prints and fun designs, you’ll be sure to find a style that suits your taste. The benefits of using reusable eco bags go beyond just looking good though — they dramatically reduce our use of plastics (especially single-use plastic), benefiting not only your own travel experience but also preserving natural ecosystems over time.

7. Support ethical tourist attractions

With more people having the means to explore and appreciate the world, ethical tourist attractions have become increasingly popular. Whether it's learning about sustainable practices or supporting a community business, travelers are choosing to use tourism for good. When selecting where to go and what to do, it's important to do your homework and make sure that you understand how these attractions work. Not only can you support local communities, but you can also discover amazing places while engaging in an authentic travel experience. From glamping in Mongolia to canoeing in Bali, there are so many opportunities to experience something truly unique while supporting ethical tourist attractions.

So there you have it, some doable tips on how you can be a more sustainable and eco-friendly traveller. Making even just a few small changes to how you travel can make a big difference to both the planet and local communities, so why not give them a go on your next trip?

Post Written By: Bash Sarmiento