Because of the availability of air transport and the affordability of other means of transport, tourism has massively increased in the last couple of decades.

Let’s take the year behind us as an example. In 2022, the number of international tourist arrivals worldwide was approximately 917 million. And while it’s nice that so many people have the opportunity to explore the world, tourism can leave an ugly mark.

Undoubtedly, travel has many economic benefits for the top destinations, but some have experienced negative consequences. For example, Venice in Italy hosts 80 thousand tourists per day, threatening the waterways of the historic city. The Great Pyramids in Egypt have seen irreparable damage, and the massive influx of visitors to Machu Picchu in Peru has threatened the preservation of this Inca village.

Those are just a few examples that raised the need for a more sustainable way of travel. With that in mind, here are a few ways to have an eco-friendly vacation.

Travel has many economic benefits for the top destinations, but some have experienced negative consequences. Here are a few ways to have an eco-friendly vacation.

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Go Under the Radar

We’ve mentioned a few locations threatened by over-tourism. According to the World Economic Forum, almost 80% of tourists visit the same five to ten locations in each country. During peak season, popular destinations experience about a 70% population increase.

If you really want to visit some of the popular destinations, you should go out of season. The best option would be to explore under-the-radar locations. You would be surprised just how much fun you can have while discovering some new places — how about somewhere none of the people you know have even heard about?

For example, have you ever considered visiting Armenia, Chad, Guatemala, or Tonga? All of these places have a unique charm, beautiful nature, and history.

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Find Local Adventures

As a general rule, the further your destination, the higher your carbon footprint. So, consider staying somewhere close to home. You can have fun visiting local museums in your city. Of course, if you want to venture into the unknown, consider someplace that is a few hours away. This can be a beach, forest, or even a spa. Even a small adventure can feel amazing and inspiring.

Embrace Alternative Means of Transport

Yes, a plane will get you there faster, but the environmental impact of the aviation industry is huge. By choosing to fly, you are contributing to air pollution, noise pollution, and climate change. Train travel is a great alternative, not only because it is better for the planet but also because it will allow you to truly experience every part of the journey without rushing through a checklist. If you decide to travel by car, look for a more efficient gasoline vehicle. You can also minimize your impact by opting for a bus.

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Get Around Without Causing Harm

Once we get to a certain destination, the easiest way to get around is by renting a car. However, driving a personal car means you are releasing more greenhouse gasses into the air, creating congestion in traffic. Choosing public transportation, such as subways and trains, is way more sustainable than driving a car. Also, you can minimize your impact by ridesharing and carpooling. Some locations are convenient for other means of transport. Golf carts are an eco-friendly option because they allow you to move around quietly without releasing hazardous emissions. When in doubt, you can walk.

Support the Local Community

According to the Brookings Institute report, 90% of tourism money goes into the hands of foreign-owned businesses, especially in low-income countries that rely on tourism revenue. As a result, that money doesn’t go back to the local economy. This is why tourists need to support local communities and ensure everything they love about the destination thrives for generations to come. So, instead of staying in a chain hotel, choose a local bed and breakfast. Instead of dining in a fancy restaurant, opt for a family-owned business.

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Choose a Sustainable Destination

Some destinations are greener than others. In Europe, Slovenia is considered to be among the most sustainable ones. The green destinations should meet some criteria, such as:

reduced energy consumption
protecting natural resources
having a pedestrian and cycling infrastructure
saving wastewater, etc.

Travel Light

We don’t think about it a lot, but packing a lot of things when traveling can hurt the planet. The bigger your suitcase, the more energy will be needed for it to be transported. So, pack less. If you are flying, consider having just carry-on baggage. Ask yourself: do you really need ten shoes for this trip? Can you manage with one coat? We usually pack much more than we actually need and end up wearing only half of the things we’ve packed.

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Go off the Beaten Path

When exploring your chosen destination, as tempting as it may sound, don’t join a large group of tourists to visit all of the ‘must-see spots.’ Instead, turn to locals for advice. You can start a conversation with your hosts or join a local Facebook group. They will help you understand the country you are visiting and have a unique experience.

Minimize your waste, recycle, use reusable items, and respect the local culture. Have a safe – and green – trip!

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In Closing

Finally, act responsibly toward the place you are visiting the way you would toward your hometown. Minimize your waste, recycle, use reusable items, and respect the local culture. Have a safe – and green – trip!