Top 10 Eco Friendly and Sustainable Ways to Travel Amid Climate Change

Last Updated: May 26, 2023

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The tourism industry has had a positive impact on communities worldwide. Small towns have transformed into popular destinations, and entire countries have experienced growth due to the increasing popularity among international travelers.

However, the excessive focus on travel has resulted in detrimental effects on our planet, including numerous daily flights, harmful tourist activities, and a growing number of species facing extinction. So, how can we explore the world in a more responsible manner? Read on to discover our top 20 tips.

Pick Right Transportation

It's widely known that the transportation industry significantly contributes to environmental damage. Whether you frequently fly or use motorized vehicles on land or sea, your actions contribute to the problem. However, here are the best ways to minimize your personal impact on our planet.

Choose non-stop flights

You don't need to be an aerospace engineer to understand that a direct flight causes less pollution than multiple connecting flights. While splitting your journey may save you money, is it worth harming the environment for a small financial gain? Additionally, do you truly want to spend time at airports during layovers when you could be exploring your final destination?

Travel with carry-on baggage only

As mentioned earlier, the heavier the plane, the more fuel it requires to fly. Unless you're embarking on a long trip, pack lightly and avoid checking bags. There's usually little luggage you truly need for a vacation, and if laundry facilities are available nearby, you can't use the excuse of "running out of clothes." If you must bring heavy luggage, consider sharing it with a fellow traveler – it will save you money too! (For tips on efficient packing, check out this article I wrote a few days ago!)

Avoid short flights

The best ecological way to travel is by exploring alternatives to air travel for short distances. There are often various routes and modes of transportation that don't require the fuel consumption of a passenger plane. In our country, there are numerous airports allowing short trips between neighboring autonomous communities, which we should avoid for the sake of our planet. Trains, buses, or carpooling are excellent ways to travel within the country without taking a flight.

Choose direct flights

On the other hand, if you're embarking on a longer journey and air travel is necessary, always try to opt for direct flights. Takeoffs and landings consume more fuel than flying at higher altitudes, so reducing the frequency of these events is preferable.

Very long trips, however, are an exception. In such cases, making a stopover is more favorable to prevent carrying a large amount of fuel.

Compare CO2 emissions

If you want to fly in the most environmentally friendly way possible, pay attention to the CO2 emissions of different airlines for the same route. Most search engines specify which airline produces the least emissions; for example, Skyscanner does this with the "Greener Choice" label.

Travel light

Consider the duration of your trip, laundry facilities availability, and the locations you'll explore. The terrain and season will also help determine the clothes, shoes, and accessories you'll need. Traveling light ensures easy mobility for you and minimizes the strain on vehicles.

Heavier loads increase fuel consumption, so packing only the essentials is a good way to limit fuel usage.

Choose eco-friendly destinations

When planning your trip, consider booking accommodations in eco-friendly hotels, guesthouses, or cabins with kitchen facilities, among others. Many of these places offer alternative transportation options and promote eco-friendly activities, such as a beach picnic with delicious local cuisine.

Check tires and oil

To ensure a smooth-running vehicle and minimize potential issues and fuel expenses, regularly check tire pressure, oil levels, and water levels. Proper maintenance in these areas helps reduce gasoline consumption and emissions during your journey.

Take secondary roads

Adding excitement to your road trip, consider taking secondary roads. Driving at high speeds increases fuel consumption. Opting for secondary roads with lower speed limits provides an interesting view of the landscape while traveling between cities. It also helps reduce expenses.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

What is the most eco-friendly way of Travelling?

Choosing sustainable flights, consuming less, picking eco-friendly destinations, packing only necessary luggage are some of the eco-friendly ways of traveling.

What is the most climate damaging way to travel?

Flying is considered the most climate damaging way to travel, however single passenger cars, old buses and trains are also contributing to climate damaging causes in different parts of the world.