Before you leave
Turn down your heating, switch off the tv and other appliances. Ditch the printer, and use travel apps for tickets and travel documents.
Use genuine travel providers
Research hotels environmental practices and tour companies and how they approach wildlife and local communities. There are so many organisations adopting real sustainable policies. Support them! Watch out for marketing bluffs, and seek companies who actually walk-the-talk.
Think outside the box
Covid may have left Venice, Dubrovnik, Athens and Barcelona with unusually empty streets, but ‘overtourism’ is a global problem. Go to fewer places and spend longer in each, explore less well-know destinations and landmarks.
Pack wisely
Have a good look through your wardrobe … you’re likely to already have the clothes you need for your holiday. Mountains of unwanted clothes are discarded every year, many bought for a holiday and used once. If you do need something, look for second-hand items or those made from eco-friendly materials. The same goes for your suitcase. Keep your old one going until it gives in! Then buy something super-light to cut down on fuel costs.
Embrace slow travel
Enjoy public transport, take the train, cycle or walk. If you rent a car, think about an electric or hybrid model. When you do fly, choose airlines with a real track record in sustainability.
Cut back on plastic
Always carry a water bottle, reusable cup and a tote bag. Google has a ‘clean water’ service to source drinking water on your travels. Use refillable toiletries, hard soap and multi-use razors. Aim for a zero-waste holiday!
Support local communtiies
Many locals rely on money from visitors to survive. Locally owned businesses have a vested interest in protecting their environment and wildlife. Huge corporations don’t. Local hotels, restaurants, tour guides and visitor attractions are also much more authentic.
Shop wisely
If you are buying souvenirs (and think first if you actually need them), support locals, choose things made from sustainable materials and NEVER buy animal products. Sun cream can damage fragile coral reefs, so many local communities sell eco-friendly creams for visitors.
Think about carbon off-setting
Reducing emissions is a key factor in sustainable travel, so off-setting is more of a last resort. But definitely better than nothing 🙂
Protect Planet, Locals, Wildlife
LOUBIRDY'S SCOTLAND 