Your Guide to Sustainable Travel

While traveling offers opportunities to explore and experience different cultures worldwide, it's time to rethink the traditional tourist model of taking long-haul flights to end up in all-inclusive resorts that isolate us from local communities.

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Sustainable travel isn't just a trend — it's a responsible way to see the world while minimizing our environmental impact and maximizing positive contributions to local communities. Here's how you can make your travels more sustainable and meaningful:

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Do Your Research

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Before booking, research the sustainability claims of hotels and tour operators thoroughly. "Green" and "sustainable" labels can mislead without concrete evidence. A truly sustainable company will openly share its specific environmental and social initiatives, displaying them prominently on its website. Don't hesitate to ask questions if you can't find clear details about its responsible tourism practices. Looking beyond the surface helps ensure your travel choices truly align with your environmental values.

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Also read: Finding Sustainable Hotels for Your Next Trip

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Choose Sustainable Transportation

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Transportation is a major contributor to tourism's environmental impact. Air travel alone accounts for 20% of a tourist's carbon footprint. You can make a difference by choosing non-stop flights (which reduce emissions by 100 kg per person) and packing light. While exploring your destination, skip the private taxis and embrace eco-friendly travel alternatives like public transportation, walking, or cycling. Many cities run bike-sharing programs and city transit programs that can reduce your emissions and even help you save money.

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Also read: 4 Ways to Skip a Flight

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Pack Reusable Essentials

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Though used briefly, single-use plastics can take thousands of years to break down. Instead of contributing to the problem, pack smart with reusable alternatives. Bring your own water bottle (with purifying tablets if needed), utensils, tote bags, and containers. For toiletries, ditch those tiny travel-sized bottles and opt for refillable containers made of glass, silicone, or recycled materials that you can fill from your full-sized products at home. These simple swaps will help you reduce your environmental footprint and save money during your travels.

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Embrace Local Culture

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Supporting local communities is one of the best ways to be a more sustainable tourist. Rather than staying at hotel chains or dining at international restaurants, choose homestays and local guides to immerse yourself in the culture. This ensures your money directly benefits the local economy. Support cultural heritage and local jobs by choosing handmade souvenirs from indigenous artisans and dining at family-owned restaurants that serve locally grown produce. You can take it up a notch by learning a few basic phrases in the local language.

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Stay Longer

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Consider choosing longer stays at fewer destinations rather than quick visits to multiple places. This helps to reduce transportation-related CO₂ emissions and infrastructure strain. Instead of rushing through tourist hotspots on a tight schedule, take time to explore beyond the main attractions. You might come across hidden gems and small local businesses that often get overlooked by hurried tourists.

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