I always do my best to reduce, reuse, repurpose, recycle, be eco-conscious and reduce my carbon footprint in my daily life and when I travel. I have a background in environmental science and I have a strong connection with the ocean and the outdoors. Let’s keep this beautiful world we live in clean and full of life! Below are seven tips on how to travel more sustainably.
Reduce your carbon footprint
Fly only when you absolutely have to, the less flights you take the better. Instead of taking two one week trips a year, take one two week trip. If you can, choose nonstop flights over layovers. The bulk of flight emissions occur at takeoff and landing. Trains and automobiles use less fuel than planes. Using public transportation instead of private reduces your carbon footprint. Walking or riding a bike uses no fuel and you get excersize! Choose the kayak tour instead of the jetski tour.
Pack light, less weight will reduce carbon emissions, I rarely check a bag. My Osprey backpack is perfect for packing light on a long trip. Traveled all over Thailand and Australia with my backpack and no complaints! My favorite carry-on is the Away carry-on, you’ll be shocked at how much you can fit in this carry-on. For dive trips I generally won’t bring my gear, other than mask, fins, snorkel and underwater camera. Sometimes I will bring my wetsuit and regulator, but I leave behind the bulky bcd and rent that. I also have a strict shoe rule, only 2-3 pairs depending on the trip.
Purchase carbon offsets
It’s inevitable that you will have some carbon emissions when you travel. Calculate what emissions you do produce and buy offsets from a company that will plant trees to counter your trips footprint. Some airlines even offer carbon offsets as an add-on when you purchase your flights!
Avoid use of plastics
Plastics do not decompose, they are on this earth forever and are causing many environmental issues. Always bring a refillable water bottle with you, this will reduce the amount of plastic cups and bottles thrown in the waist bin. My favorite is my Swell bottle, I carry it with me everywhere. Try drinking straight from the glass instead of using a straw #skipthestraw #stopsucking. I also travel with an organic cotton tote, bamboo cutlery and a stainless steel food tin. I bring my own plastic-free toiletries, such as solid shampoo, conditioner, face wash, a bamboo toothbrush and solid toothpaste bits from Bite.
Use products that aren’t harmful to Earth
Many people don’t know that chemicals in sunscreen and other beauty products are detrimental to coral reefs. I use Stream2Sea products, they don’t use the harmful chemical called Oxybenzone. Their leave-in conditioner is amazing for my curly hair when scuba diving!
Stay at eco-friendly resorts
Choose resorts that practice sustainability and site see with eco-conscious tour operators. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council is a great resource!
Support local communities
Wherever you go, support the local people and businesses. Eat, drink, shop and stay local. Opt out of all-inclusive packages. Immerse yourself in the culture, partake in beach cleanups, volunteer at the local animal rescue center/vet clinic, etc. Make sure your tourism dollar stays in the country you are visiting.
Go paperless
Go paperless by adding boarding passes to your wallet and email receipts instead of printing.
Remember to turn off the lights!
If you liked this blog post please share with friends on Facebook & Twitter! Don’t forget to book your trip with your favorite travel planner, yours truly. Check out my post on How to Travel Plastic Free!
