3 Ways You Can Become a More Sustainable Traveler

As the tourism industry grows, the need for sustainable tourism practices becomes more apparent. Sustainable tourism is defined as tourism that does not have a negative impact on the environment or local communities. There are a number of ways that travellers can become more sustainable. 

1. Choose a Sustainable Destination

The first step to becoming a more sustainable traveller is to choose a sustainable destination. There are many ways to do this, but the most important thing is to research the options and make an informed decision.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a sustainable destination. The most important is the environmental impact of the destination. This includes the amount of pollution, the amount of waste produced, and the amount of energy used. It is also essential to consider the social and economic impact of the destination. This includes things like the local economy, the working conditions of locals, and the level of tourism.

There are many ways to research the sustainability of a destination. The best way is to look for independent, unbiased sources of information. A few websites provide this kind of information, but the most reliable is probably the Sustainable Tourism Development Index. This website provides detailed information on the sustainability of different destinations worldwide.

2. Seek Out Local Experiences

When it comes to sustainable travel, one of the best things you can do is seek local experiences. This means avoiding the big, touristy traps and opting for more authentic, unique experiences supporting the local community.

There are a few different ways you can go about finding local experiences. One is to ask locals for recommendations. This could be done by striking up a conversation with someone at a café or bar or asking the hotel's concierge.

Another great way to find local experiences is through travel blogs and websites. Do a quick search for "local experiences in [insert your destination]" and see what comes up. You can also look for travel companies specialising in sustainable tourism and offering local experiences.

Once you've found a few local experiences that interest you, the next step is to actually go out and do them! This is where the real fun begins. Step out of your comfort zone and immerse yourself in the local culture. Try new foods, visit local attractions, and generally soak up everything your destination offers.

The great thing about local experiences is that they're often much more sustainable than traditional tourist activities. They support the local economy and often involve less travel, meaning they have a smaller carbon footprint. So next time you're planning a trip, make an effort to seek out some local experiences and help make your travel more sustainable.

3. Walk or Bike Around as Much as Possible

Sustainable travel is often about making small changes to your everyday habits and choices. One way to do this is to walk or bike instead of taking public transport or driving whenever possible. This reduces your carbon footprint and also gets you some exercise!

Suppose you're planning a trip. Research whether it's possible to walk or bike between your accommodation and the main attractions. Many cities have dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian-only areas that make getting around a breeze. And even if walking or biking isn't an option for the whole trip, doing it for part of it can still make a difference.

Every little bit counts when it comes to sustainable travel, so start making those small changes today!

Final Thoughts

Sustainable travel is possible for everyone, and it doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. There are many easy ways to reduce your environmental impact when travelling. By making small changes to how you travel, you can make a big difference to the planet.

Live more sustainably with the help of The Living Co. We are an eco-friendly store offering premium sustainable travel essentials to help you shop consciously and live sustainably. We provide organic, natural and everyday alternatives for sustainable living. Shop now!