10 ways to travel without tormenting the planet

Phoebe Simcock, 17th Jun 2021
Tags: Life Blog Environment Travel

I haven’t found anything to match the feeling of exploring somewhere new and discovering different cultures and unique delicacies. Sounds perfect? I’m afraid not. 

Us travel lovers jetting off to our next destination is exacerbating the climate crisis. The co2 emissions that come from aviation gasses mean that air travel is the most damaging for the planet, and travellers tend to buy more plastic wrapped food, magazines and cause more food waste. 

This doesn’t mean you need to put the suitcase back on top of the wardrobe, but there are things that you can do to help.

I’ve compiled ten ways to have a more eco-friendly holiday, so future generations can enjoy the planet just as much as we do.

1.Invest in a reusable bottle

Staying hydrated is so important, particularly in a hot climate. Buying plastic bottles to quench your thirst is adding to plastic waste, and not everywhere has a coherent recycling system. I am practically attached to my insulated water bottle, some can keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours.

2. Don’t mix tickets and trees

Modern technology has blessed us with the E-Ticket. This is a much quicker, easier and more environmentally friendly way of obtaining tickets for transport and reducing water waste.

3. Pack a capsule wardrobe

We’ve all been guilty of packing eight outfits for one weekend, but chucking out that extra weight reduces carbon emissions when travelling by plane. The lighter the aircraft, the less fuel it burns. 

A capsule wardrobe is a mix of staples and statement pieces that interchange with each other; style without excess.

4. Leave no trace

This is a very simple but effective way to reduce your carbon footprint, just leave somewhere without leaving a trace. 

Don’t leave your litter behind, especially somewhere without a recycling system. The easiest way to do this is to cut out your plastic waste and keep to reusable items as much as possible, this leads us on to…

5. Say adios to one use

Don’t stop at the water bottle, reusable cutlery, lunchboxes, cotton pads and straws can ensure that no rubbish gets left behind. 

This also applies to shampoo left in hotels that are more plastic than product. Did you know that shampoo bars can do 60-80 washes and are zero waste? They’re also travel sized!

6. Eat Local

Markets and street food are a better alternative to the supermarket meal deal. You’re not only getting local produce and helping local businesses, but you’re avoiding the unnecessary plastic wrapping.

7. Pull the plug on energy use

This one is also a safer alternative than leaving plugs on to be unused for a week. Give your TV and the planet a well-deserved break.

8. Curb the car

When exploring somewhere new, walking is always my first choice. Alternatively, hiring a bike is kind to your fitness levels and to the planet, or hop on the bus if you’re pining for a road trip.

9. Don’t toss the towels

You wouldn’t change your bed after one use or wash your towel everyday – so why do this in a hotel?! Excessive washing in hotels uses large amounts of water and electricity, so keep that towel close.

10. Jot in the journal

Journaling is a great way to keep memories that you didn’t capture on camera. Noting down your daily movements on your phone can also help you to kick those eco unfriendly habits that keep cropping up too!

I hope this list has been useful, let’s work for a greener future together!