Is sustainable travel really possible? Let’s talk honestly
We’ve all seen the dreamy Instagram posts: crystal-clear oceans, untouched mountain trails, and rustic eco-lodges with solar panels gleaming in the sun. But behind the hashtags and bamboo straws, many travellers are left wondering… Is sustainable travel really possible?
It’s a fair question. Travel, by its very nature, requires movement – planes, trains, cars – all of which have an impact. But does that mean the only truly sustainable holiday is no holiday at all? Thankfully, it’s not that black and white.
We believe travel is one of life’s greatest privileges – and we also believe it comes with responsibility. Let’s explore what sustainable travel really means, the challenges it faces, and whether it’s possible to explore the world while still protecting it.
The complicated reality of sustainable travel
First things first – there’s no such thing as “perfectly sustainable” travel. Whether you’re flying across the globe or taking a weekend train trip, your journey leaves a footprint. Planes burn fuel. Hotels use energy. Even your delicious street food snack probably comes with a bit of packaging.
But sustainable travel isn’t about perfection. It’s about making conscious choices to reduce your impact, support local communities, and respect the places you visit. It’s about understanding that your holiday can do good – or harm – depending on how you approach it.
Why is sustainable travel worth the effort?
Here’s the thing: tourism isn’t just about beaches and sightseeing. Globally, it provides 1 in 10 jobs, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and contributes over $9.5 trillion to the global economy.
In many developing countries, tourism accounts for over 20% of GDP, providing vital income for families, small businesses, and conservation efforts. The World Economic Forum highlights that for countries like Costa Rica, tourism is a major economic pillar, with the sector contributing approximately 13% of GDP, much of it driven by nature-based and eco-tourism experiences.
The report also highlights how places like Seychelles, the Bahamas, and Saint Lucia rely on tourism for more than 20% of their entire economy. For many small islands and developing destinations, welcoming travellers isn’t just a lovely bonus – it’s a lifeline that keeps local businesses thriving, supports families, and helps protect the natural beauty that draws visitors in the first place.
In Costa Rica specifically, eco-tourism has been instrumental in protecting biodiversity and rainforests while providing income and jobs for local communities. It’s a success story of how sustainable travel can directly support conservation and economic development.
But unmanaged tourism? That’s when problems arise – think overtourism in historic cities, damaged coral reefs, or communities priced out of their own neighbourhoods. Sustainable travel is how we enjoy the world without contributing to those issues.
It might not always be easy, but it’s definitely possible – and incredibly worthwhile.
The three truths about sustainable travel
Let’s strip away the buzzwords for a second. If you really want to know whether sustainable travel is possible, it helps to understand these three simple truths:
1. It’s not just about the Environment
When we hear “sustainable travel,” we often picture recycling bins and eco-hotels. But true sustainability includes environmental, social, and economic impacts.
- Are you supporting local businesses or international chains?
- Is your visit benefiting the community, or straining it?
- Are you respecting local customs and cultures?
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) defines sustainable tourism as development that meets the needs of present tourists and host regions while protecting and improving opportunities for the future. It’s as much about people as it is about the planet.
2. Small changes matter more than you think
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when you hear that the global tourism industry contributes to around 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, as reported by a study published in Nature Climate Change.
But millions of small, mindful actions from travellers collectively create real change. You might not be able to avoid flying altogether. But you can stay in locally owned accommodation, eat at family-run restaurants, and pack reusable essentials. And those actions ripple outward.
3. It’s a work in progress
Let’s be honest, sustainability isn’t something you can tick off like a packing list. It’s not a finish line you cross – it’s an ongoing journey. Even the most eco-conscious travellers can’t get everything right every time. But that doesn’t mean your choices don’t count.
Being aware, asking questions, and supporting travel providers who are trying to do the right thing all help push the industry in a better direction. And the desire for change is growing.
InsureandGo’s 2025 Wellbeing Report shows more and more people are looking for holidays that reconnect them with nature and support their wellbeing. In fact, 30% of UK travellers are actively seeking nature-based or wildlife-oriented breaks. It’s a clear sign that travellers don’t just want memorable getaways – they want them to be meaningful too.
Sustainability, like travel itself, is about curiosity. So keep asking questions and keep learning. Know that every conscious decision helps shape the future of travel – for people and the planet.
What’s changing in the world of travel?
The good news? Sustainable travel is becoming more accessible than ever. Across the globe, positive changes are happening:
- Airlines are investing in Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), which could cut aviation emissions by up to 80% over their lifecycle.
- Eco-certified hotels and tour operators are easier to find, thanks to platforms like Green Key and EarthCheck.
- Cities like Amsterdam, Venice, and Dubrovnik are taking active steps to tackle overtourism.
- Tourists themselves are demanding greener, fairer options, with 55% willing to pay more for sustainable travel experiences.
Even small tech improvements – like mobile tickets, refill stations at airports, and plastic-free amenities – help reduce waste and make responsible choices easier.
Increasingly, organisations are supporting sustainable travel through flexible coverage, eco-trip protection, and practical travel resources. Responsible travel is becoming part of everyday adventure planning.
Can you really travel guilt-free?
We won’t sugar-coat it: travel always leaves a mark. But guilt shouldn’t stop you from seeing the world – it should motivate you to explore responsibly.
The key is balance. Choose quality over quantity. Extend your stay rather than rushing from place to place. Seek out experiences that give back.
And remember – your travel insurance is there to protect you, but also to give you the reassurance to focus on making better choices. Sustainable travel isn’t about sacrifice – it’s about thoughtfulness.
Is it possible? Absolutely. Is it perfect? Not yet.
Is sustainable travel really possible? In the strictest sense, maybe not 100%. But is more compassionate and lower-impact travel possible? Without a doubt.
So keep exploring. Keep learning. Keep making mindful choices. Because when millions of travellers take small, positive steps, the world feels the benefit.