Doing your best to travel sustainably is extremely important, as it can make a huge impact on the environment and our planet. Although, it can be difficult to know what travel choices are eco-friendly and which you should avoid. The good news is that even making small changes can add up and make a significant difference.
In this article, we’ll explore changes you can make while traveling to help create a more sustainable future. From bringing a reusable water bottle to supporting local businesses and more, here are simple and eco-friendly travel choices that make an impact.
Pack Light
When you choose to pack light rather than bringing along a bunch of luggage with you, you are choosing to be more eco-friendly. If you can, try to only take one carry-on bag and a personal item instead of a heavy suitcase. Doing so can make a huge difference, especially when it comes to reducing your carbon footprint. Additionally, don’t forget to bring along items such as a reusable straw, reusable water bottle, and a tote bag, as they can help you reduce waste.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Plastic water bottles aren’t the best for the environment, which is why you should try to avoid purchasing them when possible. An easy way to do this is to bring along a reusable water bottle that you can refill again and again. There are plenty of great bottles that you can purchase, including some that are collapsible, allowing you to easily fit them inside of your backpack.
Book Direct Flights
Believe it or not, taking a nonstop flight rather than choosing flights with multiple stops can have a major impact. When you fly nonstop, you significantly reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing the total amount of fuel burned. Takeoffs and landings are some of the most fuel-intensive parts of every flight, so when you only have to takeoff and land once in order to get to your destination, you are making a smarter and more eco-friendly decision.
Be Mindful of Your Water and Energy Usage
When you’re traveling, something that you’ll want to keep in mind is your water and energy usage, especially when you’re staying in hotels. For example, when you leave your room, always make sure that you turn the lights and air conditioning off so that you don’t waste electricity. To reduce water waste, turn the water off when you’re not using it, use your bath towel more than once, and only have housekeeping come every few days.
Support Local Businesses
One of the most impactful ways to travel sustainably is to spend your money at local businesses. When looking for lodging, restaurants, and tour companies, do your research, and try to choose ones that are family-owned and operated. Not only does this help to sustain the local economy and support the community, but it will also give you the opportunity to better understand the area, and you’ll get to know the people and their culture on a deeper level.
Use Public Transportation
Reduce your carbon footprint by opting to take public transportation instead of renting a vehicle while away. It’s very easy and convenient to take a bus, train, or subway in most cities. Additionally, when planning your trip, try to stay somewhere that’s central to everything so that you can walk or bike. This is an eco-friendly choice that’s simple to make and is a lot cheaper than renting a car.
Offset Your Carbon Emissions
When flying or driving to your destination, you increase your carbon emissions. Fortunately, you can do your part by offsetting your carbon emissions. Many airlines and other organizations offer carbon offset programs that allow you to donate money based on how far you’ve traveled. Your money will then be put towards environmentally friendly projects such as planting trees or improving on clean water initiatives.
Encourage Others to Travel Sustainably
One final way that you can make a difference is to spread awareness, and inform others on how sustainable travel can help the environment and local communities. The more that we can all work together to make better choices, the better off our world will be. When you think about it, positive changes can start with just a few simple actions, and the more people who make these changes, the better.
Your Sustainable Travel Journey Starts Here
If you’re ready to embark on your sustainable travel journey, the first thing you should do is check your passport. Renewing your passport with Swift is quick and easy, and our team of travel professionals will be there to guide you through every step of the process. Visit our website to get your application process started today. No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there!
