Tips for lower-carbon travel and vacations
Sustainable travel balances enjoyable experiences with lower emissions. Planning choices—destination, transport mode, accommodation, and activities—determine the trip’s carbon footprint.
Planning and transport:
- Choose closer destinations or those accessible by train or bus to reduce flight emissions.
- If flying, combine trips, stay longer, and avoid frequent short-haul flights.
- Use public transport, cycling, or walking at the destination rather than renting a car.
Accommodation and activities:
- Choose accommodations with clear sustainability practices (energy efficiency, water-saving, waste reduction).
- Favor local experiences and businesses to support the local economy and reduce long supply chains.
- Pick low-impact activities such as hiking, cycling, or cultural tours over heavy motorized recreation.
Packing and preparation:
- Pack light to reduce transport weight and fuel use for flights.
- Bring reusable items: water bottle, shopping bag, cutlery, and toiletries to avoid single-use plastic.
Offsetting and awareness:
- If unavoidable emissions remain, use high-quality carbon removal or reduction projects as a last step—prioritize personal reductions first.
Sustainable travel is about choices that minimize environmental impact while delivering meaningful experiences. Thoughtful planning before you go and mindful behavior during the trip make vacations both enjoyable and climate-conscious.