12 tips for more responsible travel

1. Choose off-the-beaten-path destinations 

When you choose to explore destinations that are less crowded—and often more rewarding—and avoid tourist traps, you’re helping to combat overtourism. 

What is overtourism? 

Overtourism is when too many visitors flock to a destination, with negative effects on the environment, on residents, and even on the visitors themselves, who end up disappointed by their experience.  

There are several factors that explain the overtourism phenomenon:  

• Easy access to a plethora of transportation options 

• Marketing and social media campaigns that shine a light on popular places  

• High demand for certain in-vogue and affordable destinations 

What are the consequences? 

• Ecosystems and natural parks are under threat 

• Heritage sites are stretched to the limit and deteriorate ahead of their time 

• Local communities are disrupted 

• Authenticity is lost 

What is the solution?  

Choosing less crowded places and travelling off season can limit the impacts of overtourism and help preserve the places you visit. Ask your travel counsellor to suggest alternative, off-the-beaten-path destinations. You’ll be surprised what you might discover! 

2. Opt for responsible destinations and vendors 

To travel responsibly, choose tour operators, cruise lines, and airlines that adopt sustainable practices and support local businesses. Look for low-impact activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, or cultural tours that are respectful of the environment and local communities. 

3. Choose responsible accommodation 

Find hotels and places to stay that incorporate environmentally friendly practices such as the use of renewable energy, water conservation, and recycling programs. Look for these accreditations that testify to respectful management and practices: 

• Earth Check  

• Green Globe 

• Green Key  

• Travelife Accommodation Sustainability  

4. Travel light 

The heavier your luggage, the more fuel it takes to get you where you’re going. Opt for versatile clothing and pack only what you need. 

Good to know: If you take just one bag instead of heavy suitcases, it will be easier for you to take public transit rather than a taxi at your destination. That’s a win/win: cut your carbon footprint and save money! 

5. Use sustainable public transit 

Whenever you can, book direct flights. Every takeoff adds to your carbon footprint. As a bonus, you’ll arrive better rested at your destination.  

Once you’re there, explore using public transit or active transportation like walking or cycling. These options are environmentally friendly, often cheaper, and they give you a whole new perspective on your surroundings. If you need to rent a vehicle, go for a fuel-efficient or electric model. You might also be entitled to free parking or other green benefits in a number of cities, especially in Europe.  

Good to know: Group travel can be a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to going it alone. By using public transit such as buses and trains, groups generate lower per-person CO² emissions. And this type of travel often supports the local economy through partnerships with local businesses and guides. 

6. Save water and energy 

Your accommodation might already have green practices in place, but there are a few simple things you can do yourself: 

• Bring a bottle or insulated mug to cut down on single-use plastic and cardboard 

• Bring your own toiletries to avoid using the plastic-heavy mini shampoo and soap provided by the hotel 

• Turn off the lights, TV, and air conditioning (or turn it down a few degrees) when you leave your room 

• Hang your towels to dry instead of having them replaced every day 

• Use the “Do not disturb” sign to keep housekeeping visits to a minimum 

7. Respect the local culture 

Before you travel, research local customs, traditions, and ways of life. Be respectful: greet people politely, wear appropriate clothing, take off your shoes before going inside, and so on. In addition to fostering a sincere connection, you’ll help preserve the cultural heritage of your destination. 

8. When it comes to food, choose local 

Every purchase you make as a traveller has an impact. Choosing local products and regional restaurants not only pulls back the curtain on the culture of your destination but also supports the local economy. What’s more, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing the need for transportation. You can also include authentic experiences by exploring nearby villages, going to workshops with local artisans, or taking a traditional cooking class. Just make sure these activities are led by residents who will reap the benefit directly. 

9. Avoid plastics and other single-use items  

Resist the temptation to buy single-use items. To reduce waste, bring your own bottles, cutlery, and reusable shopping bags just like you do at home. Also avoid things like wipes, paper towels, items in individual packaging, and Styrofoam cups. 

Tip: Reusable airtight containers are an easy substitute for single-use plastic bags (such as Ziplocs). 

10. Offset your carbon footprint 

Credits from carbon market offsets are a responsible option travellers can take advantage of. The credits are used to finance projects, such as tree planting, clean energy production, or actions against deforestation, that eliminate or reduce an equivalent amount of CO₂.  

To calculate your carbon footprint, you can use platforms like myclimate or GoodPlanet. These tools assess your emissions based on where and how you travel and the length of your trip. You can then choose a certified project to buy carbon credits. Each credit corresponds to one ton of CO₂ offset. You’ll get a certificate as proof of your contribution and you’ll be kept up to date with the progress of the project you’re supporting. 

11. Embrace ecotourism 

Respect for animals and their environment is a key part of ethical and sustainable tourism.  

Things to avoid: 

• Dolphin or tiger shows. These attractions often involve questionable practices, such as violence or keeping animals enclosed in small spaces. 

• Elephant rides, in Thailand or India, for example. Elephants that you can ride on are put through rigorous training, and their living conditions are often inadequate. 

• Petting or feeding wildlife. Human interaction can disrupt the natural behaviour of wild animals and make them dependent on us. 

Responsible alternatives: 

• Whale or dolphin watching at sea, but in accordance with local regulations. Tip: Book with companies whose boats have a low environmental impact. 

• Visits to sanctuaries or nature reserves that work to protect local wildlife.  

12. Join in conservation projects 

By lending a hand with conservation initiatives on your trip, you can combine travel and environmental protection. Here are some ideas for inspiration: 

• Look for eco-responsible activities. They support local conservation initiatives such as eco-safaris, guided tours in national parks, and beach cleanups. 

• Choose responsible partners. When booking, opt for hotels and tour operators that make green practices part of their day-to-day operations. Examples are things like sustainable water use and excursions to natural parks where the proceeds are used to support local wildlife conservation initiatives. 

• Sign up for educational activities. These are a great way to support conservation efforts and learn something new at the same time. 

• Contribute to wildlife conservation. Boost your positive impact on the community and the environment with a donation to a project targeting reforestation, the protection of endangered species, waste management, or the fight against climate change. Crowdfunding campaigns are another way to support environmental projects. 

By adopting these practices, you’ll help preserve the natural resources of the places you visit and support the efforts of those who depend on them. For more information on the fundamental frame of reference for responsible and sustainable tourism, see the UN Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.