PACKING AND PLANNING TIPS FOR THE RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER
The tourism industry is constantly evolving and whilst we recognise the need for operators to implement responsible practices, it is also important for travellers to minimise their carbon footprint and to travel responsibly. The packing and planning process of a holiday is an exciting time, but sustainability considerations are often not front of mind. By implementing a few of these easy ideas, you’ll be able to travel more cheaply, more easily and with less of an impact on the places you visit.
1. Sip sustainably: Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the beach or slurping a soft drink on a driving holiday through national parks, you can minimise your single use plastic by packing a metal reusable straw in your bag and requesting for your beverage without a straw.
Bambew Eco Straws
2. Save your money on H2O: Skip buying plastic water bottles and pack a refillable metal water bottle. You’ll not only save money, but you’ll be minimising plastic waste.
3. Carry your shopping in style: What’s a holiday without a bit of shopping? Whether that be for road trip snacks or souvenirs, by packing a few reusable totes you’ll be going about your day in style whilst minimising your carbon footprint.
4. Guiltfree takeaway: Nothing says ‘holiday’ like sitting in a café and sipping a coffee without having to rush out to make it to work, but if you’re an eager explorer and want to hit the streets before the masses then pack your keep cup – that way you can get your coffee to go without feeling guilty.
5. Travel with flexibility: Dry off with a quick-drying microfiber towel - not only will you save room in your luggage (hooray!) but you’ll conserve electricity, water and your time as you won’t have to wash and dry your towel between destinations.
6. Savvy space saving: Why not invest in package free personal care products? You’ll save space and weight in your luggage and reduce your carbon footprint in the process.
7. Sun safety done right: Many sunscreens contain active ingredients that contribute to bleaching and harm marine life; make the simple swap to ocean friendly sunscreen to protect the reef life too.
Best Life
8. Read smarter: Avoid purchasing books for your travels and instead download eBooks and digital travel guides to reduce paper waste and save space in your luggage.
9. Flick the switch: Before setting off on your holiday, turn off all the power points and unplug any electronics that aren’t needed while you’re away. If you have a modern refrigerator, switch it to holiday mode to reduce the electricity consumption whilst keeping any leftover food safe for when you get home.
10. Tour on foot: Many destinations are best explored on foot, allowing tourists to fully immerse themselves in the destination and culture. If this is not possible, then travel by public transport (or bicycle) rather than hiring a car to reduce carbon emissions. The planet will thank you and so will your bank account.
Pixabay
11. Do your research: Prior to travelling, research any tour companies and accommodation that you are interested in and select companies that are implementing sustainable practices (this might help). Also, request for you linen and towels not to be washed every day.
12. Eat locally: Treat your senses by eating locally sourced and created food - this will reduce carbon emissions, support local producers and give you a real taste of the destination.
These are just a few simple ways that you can travel responsibly and preserve the natural, social and economic environment. Let us know which tips you’ve already made the simple swap to!