10 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in 2025

Travel broadens our horizons and creates lasting memories—but it also leaves an environmental footprint. The good news? With thoughtful choices, we can explore the world while protecting it for future generations. Here are 10 practical ways to travel more sustainably.

1. Choose Your Transportation Wisely

Air travel has the highest carbon impact per mile. When possible:

Take direct flights (takeoffs and landings use the most fuel)
Consider train travel for medium distances
Use public transportation at your destination
Rent hybrid or electric vehicles when you need a car

Did you know? A single transatlantic flight produces more CO2 than the average person in many developing countries produces in a year.

2. Stay in Eco-Conscious Accommodations

Look for hotels and lodges that:

Use renewable energy
Have water conservation programs
Eliminate single-use plastics
Source food locally
Support community initiatives

Certifications like Green Key, LEED, or EarthCheck can help identify genuinely sustainable properties.

3. Pack Light and Smart

Heavier bags mean more fuel consumed. Plus:

Bring a reusable water bottle with a filter
Pack a shopping bag for market visits
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Use solid toiletries to avoid liquid containers
Pack versatile clothing you can mix and match

4. Support Local Economies

Your travel dollars have power. Make them count by:

Eating at locally-owned restaurants
Buying from artisan markets instead of tourist shops
Hiring local guides
Staying in locally-owned accommodations
Choosing tour operators that employ local staff

5. Respect Wildlife

Wildlife tourism can be wonderful or harmful—the difference is in the approach:

Never pay to take photos with wild animals
Avoid attractions with captive wildlife performances
Maintain safe distances from animals
Never feed wildlife
Choose ethical safari operators

Red flags to avoid: elephant rides, tiger temples, swimming with captive dolphins.

6. Minimize Plastic Usage

Single-use plastic is one of travel's biggest problems:

Refuse plastic straws and cutlery
Carry a reusable coffee cup
Bring containers for takeaway food
Say no to unnecessary packaging
Choose accommodations that don't provide single-use toiletries

7. Conserve Water and Energy

Treat resources abroad as you would at home (or better):

Take shorter showers
Reuse towels and sheets
Turn off AC when you leave your room
Unplug devices when not charging
Close curtains to reduce heating/cooling needs

8. Choose Experiences Over Things

Souvenirs often end up forgotten in drawers. Instead:

Take a cooking class
Learn a local craft
Book a guided nature walk
Attend a cultural performance
Volunteer with a community project

These experiences create lasting memories without the environmental cost of manufacturing and shipping goods.

9. Offset Your Carbon Footprint

When you can't avoid flying:

Calculate your flight's carbon footprint
Invest in verified carbon offset projects
Choose projects that provide social benefits alongside environmental ones
Be skeptical of cheap offsets—quality programs cost more

10. Travel Slower

The "slow travel" movement benefits both you and the planet:

Spend more time in fewer places
Use overland transportation between destinations
Immerse yourself in local culture
Reduce the number of flights
Return home more refreshed

Making It Practical

You don't have to be perfect. Start with a few changes and build from there. Every sustainable choice adds up, and as more travelers demand responsible options, the industry will continue to evolve.

Our Commitment

At Wanderlust Tours, sustainability isn't an afterthought—it's built into every itinerary. We:

Partner with eco-certified lodges
Employ local guides and staff
Support community development projects
Offset carbon for all our tours
Continuously improve our practices

Explore our sustainable tours and travel with purpose.

The world is an incredible place worth protecting. Let's explore it responsibly.