Did you know that tourism accounts for nearly 10% of global carbon emissions? 

Or that a single plastic bottle takes 450 years to decompose—if it ever does at all? That little hotel shampoo bottle could outlive your great-great-grandkids.

Have you ever had an experience while traveling that made you realize you can make a bigger positive environmental impact than you realize? 

As travelers, we have a responsibility to minimize our impact on the world while maximizing the beauty and culture we get to experience. Sustainable travel isn’t about sacrificing comfort or luxury; it’s about making mindful choices that help protect our planet for generations to come.

My Travel Advising clients work with me because they know they can trust the hotels, tour operators and local partners to be as eco-friendly and as sustainably-minded as possible. 

Having volunteered with local conservation organizations for years, sustainable travel is a topic that is near and dear to my heart.

It’s easy to be shielded from the effects of climate change in our daily lives, especially if we live in areas with solid infrastructure. But when you travel, reality hits differently.

I remember trekking through the Jaisalmer Desert in India and coming across a cow carcass. Inside its stomach? Plastic bags and trash. I’ve surfed in Sri Lanka and found myself paddling through piles of floating plastic and trash. I’ve walked along beaches in Thailand only to find them littered with discarded hotel shampoo bottles and toothbrushes. And right at home in Florida, I’ve picked up ten pounds of trash in less than a mile during a beach walk with friends.

These experiences aren’t rare; they’re happening everywhere. But here’s the good news- there are ways we can travel smarter, cleaner, and more responsibly. Here are 5 ways you can get started.

What Is Sustainable Travel?

Sustainable travel is about minimizing your negative impact and maximizing your positive one. That means:

• Reducing carbon emissions where possible
• Supporting destinations that protect their culture and environment
• Choosing eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators
• Respecting wildlife and fragile ecosystems
• Avoiding single-use plastics (or at least reducing them as much as possible)

And most importantly, it means making choices that help ensure the places we love don’t get “loved to death.”

The Five Key Questions for Sustainable Travel

1. Why Are You Traveling?

Before booking a trip, ask yourself: Why do I want to travel? What am I hoping to experience, learn, or feel?

Too often, we follow trends instead of intention. We see a viral Instagram video with breathtaking clips of a destination, and suddenly, it’s on our must-visit list. But is it truly the right fit for us? Or are we just following the crowd?

Being intentional with travel decisions can prevent destinations from being overrun and stripped of their cultural and natural resources.

2. Where Should You Go?

Instead of following the herd, consider destinations that are actively working to protect their environment and culture. Countries like Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, Australia, and New Zealand have strong sustainability initiatives in place.

Also, research whether a place is currently overwhelmed by tourists. For example, last summer in Barcelona and Venice, locals were throwing water balloons at cruise ship tourists. That’s probably not the vibe you’re going for on your bucket list European holiday… 

3. When Should You Travel?

Whenever possible, travel during the off-season or shoulder seasons. Over-tourism in peak seasons strains local resources, raises housing costs for residents, and causes environmental damage.

I understand that traveling off-season isn’t always possible—especially for families working around school breaks—but even shifting your travel dates slightly can make a big difference. Plus, off-season travel often means fewer crowds and better prices. Win-win!

4. How Will You Get There and Get Around?

Flying is unavoidable for long distances, but you can still reduce your carbon footprint:

• Fly direct whenever possible. Takeoff and landing burn the most fuel.
• Choose airlines with sustainability commitments. Some companies are making major strides toward reducing emissions. Choose companies that have specific environmental commitments publicly listed on their website.
• Offset your carbon footprint. Many airlines and tour operators offer this option at checkout—take it, it actually works!

Once at your destination, consider alternative transportation:

• Take the train. Rail travel is growing in popularity for a reason—it’s scenic, relaxing, and better for the planet. And there are some unbelievably luxury train routes around the world!
• Use ferries, sailboats, or bikes. Exploring at a slower pace can be both enriching and eco-friendly.
• Walk whenever possible. Not only does this reduce emissions, but it allows you to experience places more deeply.

5. What Can You Do Once You Arrive?

• Stay at Eco-Friendly Accommodations Choose hotels that prioritize sustainability, such as those with solar power, water conservation policies, and plastic-free amenities. Look for smaller boutique hotels and locally-owned guesthouses, instead of massive international chains.
• Support Local Businesses Skip chain restaurants and opt for local markets and family-owned eateries. Your dollars have a more direct impact when spent at small businesses rather than big corporate franchises.
• Be Mindful of Wildlife Tourism Avoid any experience that involves touching, riding, or performing animals. If you can take a selfie with an animal, it’s likely not ethical. Instead, opt for conservation programs or safaris that allow you to observe animals in their natural habitat.
• Choose Eco-Friendly Activities Join a local beach clean up or coral restoration project. Choose tour operators that have local initiatives in place to give back to the local communities you’re touring through. 
• Leave No Trace Follow the golden rule of nature: Leave a place better than you found it. Pick up trash, even if it’s not yours. Respect cultural norms. And always opt for reusable items over disposable plastics.

Sustainable Packing 

Packing smart can reduce your waste and environmental impact. Here are some essentials:

• Reusable water bottle (bonus if it has a built-in filter!)
• Reusable shopping bags
• Bamboo cutlery or travel utensils
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Solid toiletries (shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, etc.)

Mindset Shift: Be Okay with Saying No

Sustainable travel isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being intentional. If someone offers you a plastic bag, politely decline. If your hotel provides plastic water bottles, ask if they have a refill station instead. Small actions add up.

The best part about sustainable travel? You don’t have to do it all at once. Small changes like booking an eco-friendly hotel, choosing a non-plastic option, or supporting local businesses add up over time.

Most importantly, be mindful of the privilege that comes with being able to travel. Some communities are simply doing what they can to survive. Your role isn’t to preach—it’s to make conscious choices that align with your values.