Sustainable Travel Tips

Buy only what’s essential and choose products that are made to last. The best way to reduce waste is to avoid creating it in the first place.

If you need to purchase new luggage, look for recycled materials or brands that offer repair services to extend product life.

Take only what you need. Lighter luggage is easier to manage and helps reduce carbon emissions during travel.

Research local customs and bring modest clothing for religious or culturally significant sites to show respect and blend in.

Remove unnecessary packaging before you leave. It reduces your luggage weight and prevents adding waste in your destination.

Opt for biodegradable toiletries and reef-safe sunscreen to avoid harming local environments, especially marine life.

Bring reusable containers instead of buying single-use travel sizes. It saves money and cuts down on plastic waste.

Pack a refillable water bottle, travel mug, tote bag, and reusable cutlery. These essentials help you avoid disposable items while on the go.

Find refill stations near you with apps like Refill or Tap. It’s an easy way to stay hydrated and reduce plastic use. refillambassadors.com/refill-apps

Opt for alternatives to single-use plastics. For example, enjoy an ice cream cone instead of a cup with a plastic spoon, and decline complimentary plastic water bottles in hotel rooms. Each year, eight million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean, equivalent to placing five garbage bags full of plastic on every foot of coastline worldwide.

Bring a compact reusable tote bag for shopping and souvenirs. Decline extra packaging. Over 70 countries have bans or fees on single-use plastic bags, encouraging the use of reusable alternatives.

Use your reusable water bottle or coffee cup. Make refilling part of your routine, and utilize apps or ask your tour manager for refill locations. Cities like Paris, Berlin, and Vienna are working towards eliminating single-use plastics, and your actions support these initiatives.

Carry reusable cutlery like a folding spork or reusable straw. Small containers for snacks can also help reduce your plastic consumption.

Keep recyclable waste with you if bins aren’t available, and recycle them at your hotel or next destination.

Use digital maps and apps for tourist information, and return paper leaflets and booklets to the museum or heritage site for reuse once you have finished with them.

Avoid using the toiletries provided by the hotel if they’re in single-use containers. If you do use some, take any leftovers with you to finish at your next stop or at home, then reuse or recycle the containers.

Ask the hotel about recycling bins, and where to go near the hotel if they don’t have in-house receptacles. This also lets the hotel know it’s something their guests feel is important.

Return your hotel key card when you check out, so the hotel can reuse it and reduce plastic waste. This simple action, when repeated by travelers around the world, saves an enormous amount of plastic and related carbon emissions.

Experience destinations more deeply by spending more time in one place. Leave room to stroll and explore on foot. This approach reduces transportation use, allows for authentic experiences, and helps improve local settings while letting you go at your own pace.

Savor moments, appreciate the differences, and notice the world around you. Having a sense of wonder about your surroundings enhances your travel experience and fosters a deeper connection with the local culture.

Choose fresh, local foods instead of imported ones. This reduces packaging and emissions, and supports the local economy.

Enjoy regional vegetarian or vegan specialties. Producing plant-based foods typically requires fewer resources than animal products.

Take only what you can eat, especially at buffets. Reducing food waste helps lower global greenhouse gas emissions.

Invest in useful or meaningful items rather than short-lived souvenirs. Consider foods, crafts, or stories as keepsakes.

Fair Trade and similar certifications ensure your purchases support sustainable practices and fair treatment for producers.

Explore vintage stores and local flea markets. You’ll find one-of-a-kind items and help extend product life cycles.

Use the Do Not Disturb sign to skip unnecessary cleanings and reduce energy use and chemical waste.

Five minutes or less can make a big difference. Less water used means less energy consumed for heating and treatment.

Set air conditioning around 24°C (78°F) and heating around 18°C (64°F) to conserve energy and stay comfortable.

Even if it’s not yours, disposing of trash you find helps keep destinations clean and enjoyable.

Leave behind natural and cultural items for others to enjoy. Memories last longer than souvenirs.

Wear modest clothing where appropriate, especially at religious sites or conservative regions.

Always request permission before taking photos of people. It shows respect and creates meaningful connections.