Travel opens up new horizons – but it can also leave a footprint on the planet. That’s where sustainable travel comes in. More travellers are making conscious choices to reduce their environmental impact and support the places they visit. If you’re wondering what sustainable travel is or how to be part of the green travel movement, you’re in the right place.
At InsureandGo, we believe exploring the world shouldn’t cost the Earth. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy your adventures while protecting the planet. Here’s how.
What is sustainable travel?
Sustainable travel – sometimes called green tourism or eco tourism – is all about exploring the world in a way that minimises your environmental impact and benefits local communities.
In simple terms, it’s about making travel choices that help protect the planet and the people who call it home.
Sustainable travel can mean:
- Reducing your carbon footprint
- Supporting local businesses and communities
- Protecting wildlife and natural spaces
- Respecting cultures, traditions, and local ways of life
By travelling sustainably, you help ensure the world’s incredible destinations remain just as special for future generations.
Why does sustainable travel matter?
The world feels more connected than ever – affordable flights, cruise ships, and global tours mean exploring far-flung places has never been easier. But with that freedom comes responsibility.
The travel industry contributes to around 8% of global carbon emissions, and if we don’t act, the environmental impact will only grow.
But it’s not just about carbon emissions. Overtourism can:
- Damage fragile ecosystems
- Strain local resources like water and energy
- Drive up prices for locals
- Disrupt wildlife and habitats
- Put pressure on cultural sites
From plastic waste on beaches to endangered wildlife disturbed by crowds, the signs of unsustainable travel are everywhere.
The good news? Small, conscious choices from millions of travellers can make a huge difference. Imagine if every tourist:
- Carried a reusable water bottle
- Stayed in a locally owned guesthouse
- Chose public transport over taxis
- Supported businesses that protect the environment
Together, these small steps help preserve the places we love to visit – ensuring they stay beautiful, welcoming, and thriving for generations to come.
What is Eco Tourism?
Eco tourism is a part of sustainable travel that focuses on nature-based experiences. It means exploring natural environments in a responsible way, protecting wildlife, supporting conservation, and making sure your visit leaves no trace.
From hiking in protected national parks to staying in eco-lodges, eco tourism helps preserve the world’s most beautiful places for future generations.
7 Easy tips to travel more sustainably
You don’t need to overhaul your whole trip to make a positive impact. Sustainable travel isn’t about doing everything perfectly – it’s about making small, practical choices that help reduce your footprint.
Here are seven simple ways to embrace green travel and explore the world more responsibly:
1. Pack light
It might seem simple, but how much you pack can directly impact your carbon footprint. The heavier your luggage, the more fuel is required for planes, trains, cars, and buses to transport it. Travelling light means fewer emissions and less hassle at the airport.
Try this:
- Choose versatile, mix-and-match clothing
- Leave “just in case” items behind
- Pack solid toiletries to reduce both weight and plastic waste
Bonus? You’ll breeze through airports and train stations with ease!
2. Bring reusable essentials
Single-use plastics are one of the biggest contributors to global pollution. By bringing a few simple reusable items, you can avoid contributing to this problem while travelling.
Eco-friendly travel essentials include:
- A durable, reusable water bottle – perfect for staying hydrated and avoiding plastic bottles
- A canvas tote bag – ideal for groceries, souvenirs, or beach trips
- Reusable cutlery and straw – handy for street food or takeaway meals
- Solid toiletries like shampoo bars – they last longer and reduce plastic packaging
Many airports now have refill stations, making it even easier to stay plastic-free on the go.
3. Choose sustainable accommodation
Where you stay can have a huge impact on your travel footprint. More hotels, guesthouses, and eco-lodges are adopting environmentally friendly practices – from solar power and water-saving measures to locally-sourced food and recycling programmes.
Look for:
- Eco-certifications (like Green Key or EarthCheck)
- Hotels committed to reducing waste and conserving energy
- Stays that support local communities and employ local people
Not only does this help the planet – it often means a more authentic, memorable stay.
4. Support local businesses
One of the easiest ways to travel sustainably is to support the communities you visit. Spending your money with local businesses rather than large international chains helps boost the local economy and keeps traditions alive.
Ways to support locals:
- Book tours with local guides
- Eat at family-run restaurants or food markets
- Buy souvenirs from local artisans and markets
- Stay in locally owned accommodation
It’s a win-win! You’ll experience more of the destination’s unique culture while making a positive contribution.
5. Off-set your carbon emissions
Sometimes, flying or long-distance travel is unavoidable. Carbon offsetting gives you a way to balance the environmental impact of your trip by supporting projects that reduce or remove carbon from the atmosphere.
Look for verified offset programmes that invest in:
- Reforestation or forest protection
- Renewable energy projects
- Community-based sustainability initiatives
Many airlines offer carbon offset options at the time of booking, or you can choose independent programmes to support. It’s a simple, effective step toward more responsible travel.
6. Be respectful to nature and wildlife
Part of the joy of travel is experiencing incredible natural spaces and wildlife, but it’s vital to do so responsibly. Overtourism, littering, and unethical wildlife encounters can cause lasting damage to fragile ecosystems.
Responsible behaviour includes:
- Sticking to marked paths and trails to avoid damaging plants or habitats
- Observing wildlife from a distance – never feed, touch, or disturb animals
- Avoiding attractions that exploit animals, like elephant rides or dolphin shows
- Taking all rubbish with you and leaving no trace
Respecting nature protects these places for the next traveller – and keeps wildlife safe in their natural habitats.
7. Use public transport or walk
The way you get around has a big impact on your carbon footprint. Public transport is almost always a more eco-friendly option than taxis or rental cars, and walking or cycling is even better!
Benefits of using public transport, include:
- Lower carbon emissions
- Often cheaper than private transport
- A great way to meet locals and experience daily life
- Reduces traffic congestion in popular areas
Exploring a new city on foot or by bike lets you discover hidden gems you might miss otherwise – and it’s good for your health too.
Small steps make a big difference
Sustainable travel doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether it’s packing a reusable water bottle or booking a stay with eco-credentials, every small decision adds up. By choosing green travel options, you help preserve incredible destinations, protect wildlife, and support the communities that call them home.
At InsureandGo, we believe travel should be exciting, safe, and sustainable. Our travel insurance gives you the freedom to explore responsibly – knowing you’re protected along the way.