Nature's Guest: How to Travel in Harmony with the Earth
Krka, Croatia. Photo credits Angelina DeSalvo
Travel is one of life’s greatest joys, offering the chance to explore new cultures, landscapes, and perspectives. But as tourism continues to grow, so does its impact on the environment. Fortunately, traveling sustainably doesn’t mean giving up comfort or adventure, it simply means making smarter, more conscious choices. The modern adventurer is not just seeking beautiful destinations, but also responsible ways to reach and enjoy them. I personally had the privilege of traveling around Europe for the last four months, where I was able to witness first-hand how simple practices like these can make an immense impact. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a bucket-list journey, here are some practical and inspiring ways to make your travels more eco friendly.
1. Choose Greener Modes of Transportation
When it comes to eco-friendly travel, how you get to your destination, and how you get around once you’re there, can make a big difference. Flying might be the fastest way to get around, but it’s also one of the worst for carbon emissions, especially for short flights. Whenever possible, opt for trains or buses, which are significantly more energy-efficient and offer the added bonus of scenic, stress-free journeys. If you must fly, choose non-stop flights and consider carbon offset programs to balance out your emissions. And once you’ve arrived, go low-impacts: walking, cycling, or using public transportation not only reduces your carbon footprints but also lets you experience a place more authentically. It is a fun way to get a real feel for the place, plus the planet will thank you. If you're traveling locally or regionally, consider carpooling or renting a hybrid or electric vehicle to cut down on emissions. Making conscious transportation choices like these can significantly reduce your environmental impact without compromising your travel experience.
2. Pack Light and Smart
What you bring with you on a trip matters more than many travelers realize. Packing light not only makes your journey easier, it also reduces the overall weight on planes, buses, and cars, which can lower fuel consumption and emissions. Beyond weight, being mindful about what you pack can also help minimize waste. Opt for reusable items like a water bottle, shopping bag, travel utensils, and a coffee cup to cut down on single-use plastic. Solid toiletries such as shampoo bars and bar soap are great alternatives to liquids, and they often come in zero-waste packaging. Choose clothing made from sustainable or recycled materials (you can read more about some of those options here), and pack only what you truly need. The lighter and more intentional your luggage, the more eco-friendly your travel becomes - both in transit and at your destination.
3. Eat and Shop Locally
One of the easiest and most rewarding ways to travel sustainably is to support the local economy through the choices you make around food and shopping. Choosing to eat at locally owned restaurants and cafes not only gives you a more authentic taste of the region but also reduces the environmental cost of transporting food long distances. When possible, choose to dine where meals are made with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. When it comes to shopping, skip the mass-produced souvenirs and look for handmade items, local crafts, or regional food specialties. Buying directly from artisans, vendors, and small businesses helps keep money in the community you’re visiting. These purchases become more than souvenirs, they’re meaningful contributions to the places that welcome you.
Marrakesh, Morocco. Photo credits Angelina DeSalvo
4. Respect Nature and Wildlife
Traveling responsibly means more than just redirecting your carbon footprint, it also means honoring and protecting the natural environments and creatures you encounter along the way. Whether you’re hiking through a national park, snorkeling on a coral reef, or exploring a wildlife sanctuary, it’s important to follow guidelines that minimize your impact and preserve these spaces for future visitors. One key principle to remember is Leave No Trace: always stay on marked trails to avoid damaging fragile plants and habitats, carry out all your trash, and avoid disturbing natural features. When observing animals, keep a safe and respectful distance. Do not feed or touch wildlife, as human food can harm them and close interactions can stress or alter their natural behaviors. If you’re visiting marine environments, use only reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching corals, which are delicate and easily damaged. When participating in wildlife tours, choose operators that prioritize ethical treatments of animals and promote conservation efforts rather than exploitation or entertainment. By treading lightly and behaving thoughtfully, travelers help protect the beauty and biodiversity of the places they love to explore, ensuring these wonders endure for generations to come.
5. Travel Slower, Stay Longer
In today’s fast paced world, it’s tempting to cram as many destinations as possible into one trip. But slowing down and spending more time in one place can be one of the most impactful ways to travel sustainably. When you travel slower, you reduce the need for frequent flights, long drives, or other transportation that contributes heavily to your carbon footprint. Staying longer allows you to connect more deeply with the local culture and environment. Instead of rushing through your itinerary, you can truly experience a destination’s rhythms, traditions, and flavors. Additionally, slow travel encourages a more relaxed and mindful approach to tourism. It helps combat over tourism by spreading visitor numbers more evenly over time, reducing pressure on natural sites and communities. By staying longer in a few places, you help foster sustainable economic benefits for locals while enjoying a richer, more authentic experience yourself.
Lagos, Portugal. Photo credits Angelina DeSalvo
Traveling with the planet in mind doesn’t mean giving up on adventure or discovery, it’s about making choices that respect both the places we visit and the communities that call them home. By opting for greener transportation, packing thoughtfully, supporting local business, honoring nature, and embracing slower travel, each one of us can become a more responsible traveler. These small but meaningful steps help protect the environment, preserve cultural richness, and ensure that future generations can enjoy the same wonders we do today. Sustainable travel is not just a trend, but a commitment to exploring the world with care and intention, turning every journey into a chance to make a positive impact.
