Travel Greener: 10 Powerful Tips for a Better 2025

Why Travel Greener Matters More Than Ever

Travel greener means exploring our world with a lighter footprint—making choices that protect natural environments and local communities. To quickly start making your trips more sustainable, follow these simple tips:

• Choose eco-friendly transport: Walk, bike, or take the train for fewer emissions.
• Stay sustainably: Book eco-certified hotels or accommodations with green practices.
• Pack smarter: Go for reusable items like water bottles and toiletries without plastic.
• Respect and support: Engage responsibly, honor local cultures, and support local businesses.
• Offset emissions: When flying is unavoidable, use credible carbon offset programs.

Traveling is amazing—it opens up new experiences, perspectives, and lifelong memories. But the harsh truth is this: tourism can also inflict major damage on our planet. Transport alone creates 20% of the tourist industry’s carbon emissions, and stays in hotels and resorts add another significant chunk. If we want our future trips to be as beautiful and lush as they are today, greener travel is our best shot.

This doesn’t mean giving up comfort or trip, though. It’s about tweaking how you travel to help protect the places and communities you visit. As sustainable travel expert Susanne Etti puts it:

“Sustainable tourism is all about making simple choices to lessen your negative impact.”

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to do that.

Understanding Sustainable Travel

What does it really mean to travel greener? It’s so much more than just reducing your carbon footprint. When we talk about sustainable travel, we’re embracing a complete approach that considers how our trips affect the environment, local communities, and economies of the places we visit. As Nora Livingstone, co-founder of Animal Experience International, so perfectly puts it:

“It’s not exploitative or degenerative to the host’s culture, community, wildlife, ecosystem or economy. From the root of its name, it sustains.”

When we choose to travel greener, we’re making thoughtful decisions that help preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage that made us want to visit in the first place. This matters more than you might think – tourism generates about 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, pumping roughly 4.5 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases into our atmosphere every year.

These aren’t just abstract numbers. They translate into real-world consequences: glaciers disappearing before our eyes, sea levels creeping up coastlines, wildlife losing their homes, and unique cultural traditions gradually fading away.

Here’s the encouraging part: we’re witnessing a shift in how people think about travel. Studies show that 81% of travelers now actively seek sustainable accommodations—that’s a impressive 19% jump since 2016! This growing demand is pushing the entire travel industry to adopt more responsible practices.

Understanding why sustainable travel matters is your first step toward making better choices on your next trip. By embracing greener travel, you’re not just reducing your environmental impact—you’re often rewarded with a more authentic and meaningful experience. As Lindsey Lyons from Dickinson College’s Center for Sustainability Education notes: “You may also have a more meaningful experience knowing that your impact on the place and people was a positive one.”

The stakes are clear. Without responsible tourism, as Corey Determan of Bella Rose Travel agency warns, “there would be little left of the places we want to visit.” By making sustainable choices, you’re helping ensure these incredible destinations remain vibrant and accessible not just for your return visit, but for generations of travelers to come.

The beauty of sustainable travel is that it connects us more deeply to the places we visit. Rather than just passing through, we become thoughtful participants in preserving what makes each destination special. And isn’t that connection what travel is truly about?

Plan Ahead to Travel Greener

Planning ahead is one of the easiest—and most powerful—ways to travel greener. Simple choices made before your bags are even packed can significantly lower your environmental footprint. Let’s explore a few thoughtful strategies to help you journey sustainably, starting right from your trip’s planning stage.

Choose Sustainable Destinations

Believe it or not, your destination choice has a big impact on how sustainable your trip can be. Some places are doing amazing things to protect their ecosystems, support local communities, and keep overtourism at bay.

Start by looking at sustainability certifications. Destinations recognized for environmental excellence make it easy to travel greener. Take the Azores, for example—this beautiful Portuguese archipelago has protected more than 90% of its islands as green spaces. Or Bhutan, which proudly stands as the world’s first carbon-negative country, absorbing more carbon emissions than it produces.

Next, keep an eye out for places dealing with overtourism issues. Popular hotspots like Venice, Barcelona, or Machu Picchu can get overwhelmed during peak seasons, harming local environments and communities. Try visiting these popular spots just before or after the busiest months (known as the “shoulder seasons”), when crowds are lighter. Or better yet, explore lesser-known nearby locations that offer similar charm without the huge crowds.

Also, dig into local environmental initiatives. Destinations like Costa Rica and the Maldives are making incredible strides toward sustainability—Costa Rica aims to ditch fossil fuels completely by 2050, and the Maldives has committed to becoming carbon-neutral. Supporting these places means your tourism dollars directly contribute to their sustainability goals.

Finally, don’t shy away from staying closer to home. Faraway places can seem glamorous, but trips close to home can be just as amazing—and often much gentler on the planet. As one traveler shared with us at Soaring in Style: “I chose the Cook Islands after learning they’re aiming for 100% renewable electricity. It felt great knowing my vacation actually supported their environmental mission.”

Select Green Accommodations to Travel Greener

Did you know hotels and resorts produce about 1% of global greenhouse emissions—and a whopping 20% of the tourism industry’s emissions? Choosing eco-friendly accommodations can significantly reduce your trip’s footprint without sacrificing comfort.

When booking your stay, aim for accommodations with trusted eco-certifications. Certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), Green Key, EarthCheck, and Rainforest Alliance ensure your lodging meets strict sustainability standards, from energy efficiency to waste reduction.

But don’t just rely on labels—look deeper. Accommodations that clearly outline their sustainability practices tend to be genuinely committed. Look for initiatives like using renewable energy (think solar panels on rooftops), water-saving fixtures, sustainable heating and cooling systems, and detailed waste management programs. Some hotels even partner with local food banks to save unserved food from events, reducing food waste and supporting local communities.

If luxury hotels aren’t your style, consider hostels—often among the greenest options available. They use significantly less water and energy per guest, and many have robust eco-friendly policies.

Want some inspiration? There’s a hotel in Germany’s Black Forest that generates all its electricity and heating from renewable sources. Sustainable travel doesn’t mean giving up comfort—today, some of the most luxurious hotels are leading the green travel movement.

By putting in a bit of research and carefully picking your destination and accommodations, you’ll set yourself up to effortlessly travel greener on your next trip.

Travel Greener with Sustainable Transportation

Transportation is usually the biggest contributor to your travel carbon footprint. In fact, air travel alone accounts for about 20% of the tourism industry’s greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. And if you’ve ever wondered, cruise ships aren’t exactly eco-friendly either—they can produce three to four times more CO2 per passenger per kilometer than a commercial plane!

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to significantly reduce emissions by choosing smarter transportation options. Let’s dig into how you can easily travel greener with your transportation choices.

Opt for Low-Emission Modes to Travel Greener

One of the simplest ways to cut your carbon footprint is exploring your destination by foot or bicycle. Cycling doesn’t just create zero emissions—it also gets you closer to nature, provides healthy exercise, and often lets you find hidden gems you’d otherwise miss.

Of course, walking or biking isn’t always practical for long distances. But don’t stress—you can still make greener choices. Trains are one of the best eco-friendly transportation methods available. For example, taking an Amtrak train is 34% more energy-efficient than flying domestically—and a whopping 46% more efficient than traveling by car. Plus, in Europe, high-speed trains often match or even beat flight times, once you factor in airport security and transfers. Amazingly, a train ride from London to Edinburgh creates about the same amount of carbon dioxide as skipping your washing machine for an entire year!

If trains aren’t an option, look for buses or public transit. City buses, especially electric or hybrid fleets, typically have fewer emissions per passenger compared to private vehicles. And if you absolutely need a car, choose shared rides or carpool whenever possible. Renting a smaller, fuel-efficient vehicle—or even better, an electric or hybrid model—can dramatically reduce your impact.

Boats and ferries can also be relatively efficient ways to cross water, especially compared to large cruise ships that are known for their heavy environmental toll. When choosing water travel, smaller ferries or eco-conscious tour operators are usually your greener bet.

Flying is sometimes unavoidable—but even then, you can still reduce your emissions by being mindful of your choices. To put it simply, fly like “A NERD”:

• Avoid unnecessary flights,
• Choose airlines that fly Newer aircraft, which are roughly 20% more fuel-efficient,
• Pick Economy class, which has a smaller carbon footprint per passenger compared to first-class or business,
• Opt for Regular-sized planes (the smaller the plane, the higher the emissions per passenger),
• Always book Direct flights because takeoffs and landings use up the most fuel.

Here’s a quick snapshot of how emissions stack up per passenger over 100 kilometers:

• Trains: 4 kg CO2e
• Cars: 19 kg CO2e
• Planes: 25 kg CO2e

Dan Rutherford, a transport expert from the International Council on Clean Transportation, reminds us: “Air travel today is inherently carbon-intensive—fossil fuels account for 99.9% of aviation energy use, and choosing to board a plane is the single most emitting decision many of us will make in our lives.”

Some countries are already making big moves to support sustainable transportation. France, for instance, recently banned domestic flights where a train or bus alternative exists within 2.5 hours. These policies encourage travelers to accept low-emission options—and you can do the same on your next journey.

(If you’re curious to learn more about the emissions of different transport methods, check out this comprehensive scientific research on carbon emissions from transport.)

Offset Your Carbon Emissions

Realistically, some high-emission travel is unavoidable. That’s where carbon offsetting comes in handy—it lets you “balance out” your emissions by investing in environmental projects elsewhere, such as renewable energy or forest protection.

Many airlines now offer offset programs you can buy when booking your flights. For example, KLM passengers can make their trips carbon-neutral by donating a small amount to sustainability projects—like replacing polluting wood-burning stoves in Africa. And it’s surprisingly affordable: offsetting a flight between Amsterdam and Aberdeen can cost as little as $1.60.

When picking a carbon offset initiative, look out for transparency (they should be upfront about where your money goes), verification by respected third parties like Gold Standard or Verified Carbon Standard, additionality (the project should create reductions that wouldn’t happen otherwise), and permanence (the reductions should last long-term).

While offsets aren’t a magic fix (it’s always better to cut emissions first), they do help lessen your impact when travel emissions can’t be avoided. Want to find a trustworthy offset project? Check out initiatives like Atmosfair for verified offsetting options.

At Soaring in Style, we often say, “Imagine the collective impact if everyone decided to reduce their impact and give back to nature.” By choosing sustainable transportation and thoughtful offsetting, you’re doing exactly that—and helping to ensure the places we love remain beautiful, healthy, and ready to welcome future generations.

Pack Light and Use Sustainable Products

What you bring on your trip makes a big difference in your ability to travel greener. Packing lighter and choosing eco-friendly products helps reduce waste, lower emissions, and keep our planet healthy while you explore.

Benefits of Packing Light

You’ve heard it before—less is definitely more when it comes to travel. But did you know packing light also helps the planet? The heavier your bags, the more fuel your flight, car, or bus needs to carry them, leading to higher carbon emissions. Aviation experts point out that every kilogram counts, especially on flights, which burn extra fuel for heavier loads.

To slim down your suitcase, plan your clothes ahead, packing versatile pieces you can mix and match. Choose lightweight, quick-drying fabrics that you can wash and wear again during your trip. Limit yourself to just one bag if you can—you’ll thank yourself later when hauling luggage around! And here’s a pro tip: wear your bulkiest items, like sweaters or jackets, on travel days to save space in your bag.

Essential Sustainable Travel Products

Packing sustainably isn’t just about less weight—it’s also about smarter choices. Swap out disposable or single-use items with quality reusable gear that lasts for years. A durable reusable water bottle is the best example. If you buy one disposable bottle of water every day, you’ll spend roughly £30 per month—and each plastic bottle takes hundreds of years to decompose. A simple reusable bottle saves your wallet and our oceans.

When it comes to toiletries, ditch plastic bottles for eco-friendly alternatives. Shampoo and soap bars last longer, weigh less, and avoid liquid restrictions at airport security. Pair them with a bamboo toothbrush, toothpaste tablets, and reef-safe sunscreen. And for menstruating travelers, menstrual cups or period underwear can drastically reduce waste and packing space.

For dining and snacks on the go, consider packing a collapsible coffee cup, bamboo or metal utensils, reusable food containers, and cloth napkins. These small changes eliminate single-use plastic waste from your meals.

If shopping is on your itinerary, keep foldable shopping bags handy. As one traveler told us with a laugh, “Reusable bags are also less embarrassing—no noisy backpack rummaging in quiet stores!” Add reusable silicone bags for snacks and toiletries, plus beeswax wraps to store leftovers or picnic goodies.

Even tech choices can help you travel greener. A solar charger can power your devices sustainably, and rechargeable batteries are a smarter solution than disposables. For avid readers, an e-reader is lighter and greener than carrying heavy paperbacks.

When selecting new gear, look for companies that use recycled or sustainable materials, follow fair labor practices, and support environmental causes. Brands offering lifetime warranties or repair programs deserve bonus points too.

But remember this simple rule: the greenest choice of all is often something you already own. Before hitting the “buy now” button, take a quick peek into your cabinets and closets—you might already have exactly what you need. As we like to say at Soaring in Style, traveling greener starts with mindful packing, thoughtful product choices, and a little creative repurposing.

If you’re looking for more inspiration on eco-friendly gear, check out our curated guide to Sustainable Travel Essentials.

Engage in Responsible and Ethical Tourism

Truly green travel goes deeper than environmental awareness—it also means making socially responsible and ethical choices. Every interaction you have with local communities, cultures, and wildlife can profoundly shape the places you visit. When you travel greener, you actively protect both the natural wonders and the vibrant cultures that make a destination special.

Supporting Local Communities

One of the best ways to ensure your tourism positively impacts communities is to spend thoughtfully. Rather than choosing large, international hotel chains where profits often flow out of the country, stay in locally owned accommodations like family-run guesthouses, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, or small hotels. Not only will your money directly support local families, but you’ll also enjoy richer, more authentic experiences.

The same goes for dining out. Explore local restaurants serving regional specialties instead of grabbing a bite from international fast-food chains. Sampling dishes made from area-grown ingredients not only tastes better, but also supports local farmers and food traditions. As one expert suggests, skipping touristy spots and heading to smaller towns allows you to truly connect with the community. Wander neighborhoods, shop at open-air markets, and chat with locals. These interactions transform your travel experience into something deeply meaningful—and put your dollars where they matter most.

Similarly, when picking out gifts and souvenirs, shop thoughtfully. Choose handmade items from local artisans or purchase from fair-trade certified shops. When you pay a fair price, you honor the time, skill, and cultural heritage behind each crafted item. As a guide from Oaxaca once shared, “It’s not about bargaining for the lowest price—it’s about respecting the tradition and effort behind each handmade treasure.”

Hiring local guides also makes your visit more meaningful. Local guides offer insights you simply can’t find elsewhere, and your money goes directly into the community. Learning a few words or phrases in the local language is another wonderful way to show respect—and usually results in warmer connections. Even a simple “hello,” “please,” or “thank you” in the local language goes a long way.

Respecting Wildlife and Natural Environments

Ethical tourism also means respecting wildlife and protecting natural landscapes. The Leave No Trace principles offer a simple but powerful guide for outdoor ethics. These principles encourage you to plan ahead, stay on designated trails and durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, respect wildlife, and leave natural and historical wonders exactly as you found them.

When it comes to wildlife experiences, choose responsible activities. Avoid attractions that exploit animals by allowing unnatural interactions, such as swimming with dolphins trapped in small pools or petting tigers kept in captivity. Instead, opt to see wildlife in their natural habitats, from a respectful and safe distance. As one travel guide humorously put it, dragging an animal out of its home “is obviously a really stupid thing to do.”

Be careful not to feed wild animals either. It may seem harmless, but human foods can harm animals’ health and alter their natural behaviors—sometimes creating dependence or aggression toward humans. Another thoughtful habit is to pick up litter you find along the way. Carrying a small bag with you to collect trash during your trips leaves places cleaner than you found them and sets a positive example for other travelers.

By engaging responsibly and ethically, you’re not just minimizing your negative impact—you’re actively protecting the cultures and ecosystems you visit. As one wise traveler beautifully said, the most precious souvenirs are “those collected for the soul through meaningful connections,” rather than any physical keepsake. When you choose to travel greener, you leave behind a positive legacy for communities, wildlife, and future travelers.

Reduce Waste and Conserve Resources

Traveling opens our eyes to stunning landscapes, fascinating cultures, and unforgettable experiences. But the stark reality is tourism can also lead to significant waste and resource use. Thankfully, adopting simple habits to travel greener can help minimize environmental harm, conserve resources, and even improve your travel experience.

Minimizing Plastic Waste

Plastic pollution is a serious issue, especially in popular tourist destinations. Single-use plastics—things like water bottles, shopping bags, and straws—often end up littering beaches, forests, and oceans. This not only spoils the beauty of a place but also harms wildlife and ecosystems.

Fortunately, small choices go a long way toward reducing plastic waste. One of the easiest decisions is simply saying no to single-use plastics. Politely decline plastic straws, bags, and cutlery that you don’t actually need, and instead bring your own reusable alternatives.

Carrying a reusable water bottle is perhaps the single best thing you can do to cut down on plastic waste. Just imagine: even using just one disposable bottle a day during your travels can quickly add up to dozens of bottles tossed away. Your reusable bottle prevents all that waste and also saves you money.

You can also make smarter choices by selecting products with minimal packaging. When shopping for snacks or necessities, look for options in recyclable packaging or even better—no packaging at all. And if you smoke, a simple pocket-sized ashtray can prevent cigarette butts from harming the environment; they surprisingly take years to degrade!

Proper disposal matters too. Take a few minutes to learn about local recycling options at your destination. If recycling isn’t available, consider bringing certain recyclable items back home with you.

Even major tourism companies are catching on. Celebrity Cruises and other leading cruise lines have eliminated single-use plastics like straws fleet-wide, proving that large-scale travel companies can—and should—play their part.

Conserving Water and Energy

In many popular travel spots, water and energy are precious resources. Hotels, resorts, and tourist activities can put extra strain on local supplies. But with a bit of awareness, you can easily help conserve these essential resources during your trip.

One simple way is to reuse hotel towels and linens. Many hotels even have handy signs reminding you that hanging up a towel means you’ll reuse it. This small action saves a surprising amount of water, energy, and reduces chemical pollution from detergents.

Shortening your showers also makes a big difference. A quick five-minute shower instead of your usual ten minutes instantly cuts water use in half. Feeling extra adventurous? Try a “Navy shower”—turning off water while you soap up—to save even more.

When leaving your accommodation, always remember to turn off lights, air conditioning, and electronics. Even better, unplug devices completely—this reduces hidden “vampire” electricity use. Adjusting your thermostat a couple of degrees cooler for heating or warmer for air conditioning can noticeably reduce energy consumption too.

If the climate allows, enjoy natural ventilation by opening windows instead of relying on air conditioning. Not only will this lower your environmental footprint, but it can also connect you more deeply with your surroundings, bringing in fresh breezes and vibrant local sounds.

Be mindful of your daily routine—something as simple as turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving can save substantial amounts of water. And if you spot dripping faucets or leaking toilets, let hotel staff know. As one hotel manager in a drought-prone region shared with us at Soaring in Style, “Every drop counts, and conscious travelers truly help ensure there’s enough water for everyone.”

These actions might seem like tiny drops in the ocean, but when travelers everywhere accept the idea that “every small action contributes to a greener tomorrow,” the collective impact transforms our world for the better.

Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling Greener

What is sustainable travel?

Sustainable travel means exploring the world in a way that protects the environment, respects local cultures, and benefits communities you visit. It’s not just about reducing your carbon footprint—it’s about choosing to travel greener by consciously supporting the natural and cultural treasures you encounter along the way.

There are three main pillars that guide sustainable travel: environmental sustainability (cutting down on pollution, waste, and resource use), social sustainability (appreciating local traditions and supporting community wellbeing), and economic sustainability (ensuring tourism dollars stay within local communities where they can make a real difference).

But sustainable travel doesn’t have to mean giving up comfort or enjoyment—in fact, many travelers say it improves their journeys. When you travel greener, you tend to form stronger connections with the places you visit and the people you meet, leading to richer, more meaningful experiences.

How can I reduce my carbon footprint while traveling?

Reducing your carbon footprint on your trips is easier than you might think—it involves thoughtfully planning your trip and making smart choices along the way. First, consider destinations closer to home or those committed to sustainability. Think about taking fewer trips but staying longer in each place—fewer flights mean lower emissions. When choosing accommodations, look for eco-certified hotels or stays that support local sustainability efforts, and remember to pack lighter with reusable items.

Transportation typically has the biggest impact on your carbon footprint. Whenever possible, choose trains over planes—taking a train can reduce your emissions by up to 75%. If you do fly, select direct flights (takeoffs and landings use the most fuel), newer aircraft (they’re more fuel-efficient), and economy class seats (they’re better environmentally than business class). Once you arrive, lean towards public transport, walking, or biking. If you rent a vehicle, go smaller or choose electric or hybrid options. For unavoidable emissions, consider credible carbon-offset programs that support climate-friendly projects.

During your stay, support local and sustainable businesses, conserve water and energy at your accommodation, reduce waste, follow local environmental guidelines, and respect wildlife and natural habitats. Each small choice you make helps you travel greener and contributes positively to the places you love to visit.

Does traveling greener mean giving up comfort?

Not at all! One of the biggest myths about sustainable travel is that you need to sacrifice comfort or style. But the reality is, many of today’s most luxurious accommodations and experiences are actually leading the charge in sustainability.

A traveler once told Soaring in Style about their stay at a luxurious eco-resort in Costa Rica: “It was honestly better than most traditional hotels I’ve visited. There was a solar-heated infinity pool, delicious farm-to-table meals, and stunning architecture built sustainably. I got to indulge without feeling guilty about my footprint!”

Accommodations that let you travel greener span from cozy eco-friendly hostels to luxurious five-star resorts. They often provide locally sourced organic meals, natural spa treatments, intelligent design that uses natural light and ventilation, authentic cultural experiences, and pristine natural surroundings protected through conservation initiatives.

Even sustainable transportation—like modern, comfortable trains or quiet electric vehicles—can be relaxing and enjoyable. Carrying your reusable water bottle or hopping on local public transit doesn’t take away comfort; it actually makes your trip feel more connected and authentic.

Sustainable travel isn’t about roughing it. It’s about making thoughtful choices that improve both your comfort and your experience—leaving you with richer memories and a healthier planet.

Conclusion

As we’ve explored together, choosing to travel greener isn’t about giving things up—it’s about gaining deeper connections, richer experiences, and a greater sense of purpose. By thoughtfully considering our travel choices, we can protect the very landscapes, wildlife, and communities that inspire us to explore.

The facts speak loudly: tourism does significantly impact our environment and contributes notably to global emissions. Yet, the rising interest in sustainable options (with 81% of travelers now actively seeking eco-friendly stays) proves that travelers like you have incredible influence. Each choice you make not only shapes your own experiences but also helps shift the travel industry toward greater responsibility.

Embracing sustainable travel is truly a journey itself—not something you master overnight. You don’t need to overhaul your travel style all at once. Start small, perhaps swapping single-use plastics for reusable items, booking eco-certified accommodations, or traveling by train instead of plane when possible. Each effort adds up. “Every small action contributes to a greener tomorrow.”

At Soaring in Style, we firmly believe that travel has the power to transform—not just the traveler but also the destinations we cherish. By choosing to travel greener, you’re voting with your wallet and advocating for a type of tourism that respects and preserves the world’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg famously sails across oceans rather than flying, boldly demonstrating how our travel choices reflect our values. While most of us might not take such dramatic steps, each of us can find meaningful ways to lessen our impact without sacrificing comfort or joy. Sustainable travel doesn’t mean roughing it; it often means finding amazing new experiences—whether it’s staying in an eco-resort surrounded by nature, savoring fresh local cuisine, or connecting deeply with the people who call your destination home.

Next time you plan an trip, keep the principles of green travel close to heart. Your decisions matter, and your journey can be part of a global movement toward responsible tourism. And who knows? You might just find that traveling greener gives you richer stories, more meaningful memories, and a deeper appreciation for our incredible planet.

Safe and sustainable travels from all of us at Soaring in Style!

For more sustainable travel inspiration, explore our guide Travel Green: Sustainable Tips for Conscious Explorers.