Sustainable Domestic Travel 101

The concern about climate change has been going on for quite some time now, and most of us realize our actions, even the tiniest ones, have contributed to it in a certain way. Naturally, this has prompted us to tweak our lifestyles as even the slightest change can do wonders for our planet. We changed the way we eat, our shopping habits, and even the way we travel! This collective awakening has sparked up inspiration in us all, paving the way for a greener, more hopeful future. With that in mind, enter the world of sustainable traveling—an experience that enriches our appreciation for our local and domestic surroundings.

‍

What Is Sustainable Traveling? 

Obviously, no one can blame us for the desire to see the wonders of the world, but very rarely do we think about the impact we’re leaving on the planet. However, all of that changed once we were all under lockdown and we literally saw the Earth healing. In turn, this made sustainable travel more common, a practice that not too many people participated in.

In essence, sustainable tourism means finding a way of traveling without harming environmental and cultural environments. As you know, many ecosystems and landmarks have been destroyed by an abundance of crowds, thus calling for the need to reform the way we travel. In more practical terms, sustainable traveling encourages us to engage with the environment, economy, and society in ways that are respectful and beneficial, aiming to minimize our footprint and foster a positive impact.

Little tweaks can make you one step ahead of the curve. For one, we encourage you not to hop on planes as much as possible and see multiple places in a short timeframe. Instead, be a slow traveler and consider sustainable destinations. In terms of transportation, take direct flights whenever possible and always consider the “greenest” way to get you from one point to another. Finally, consider staying at locally-owned accommodations rather than huge hotels that only harm our planet, no matter how much their eco campaigns tell you otherwise.

Sustainable Domestic Travel Options

Being responsible for your choices does not mean giving up your favorite things altogether. For instance, you only need to make some adjustments when it comes to sustainable domestic travel. The eco-conscious solutions below will allow you to continue exploring but in a different manner. The best part? You will learn things about your local environment that you never expected.

‍

Localized Traveling

The first sustainable traveling option is to shorten your travel time and explore domestic tourism locations one place at a time. You do not have to go to several destinations each time you set off on a trip. You can choose just one and plan an itinerary involving activities in one place. When you think about it, you are giving yourself the chance to get to know the area thoroughly. You will not go from one place to another and take only a glimpse of everything you see. On the contrary, you will have the opportunity to truly experience the destination you are visiting. 

‍

Domestic Destinations

Instead of visiting a destination on the other side of the globe, you can try traveling locally. Going on city adventures and exploring their close surroundings allows you to see the beauty of less commonly known destinations, all the while significantly reducing the environmental impact linked with long-distance traveling.  Additionally, choosing alternatives to long flights and car journeys is essential in our collective effort to save the planet, which further enforces sustainable traveling.

‍

Eco-Tourism

Eco-tourism is a great sustainable option that decreases harmful human impacts by a significant percentage. So why not explore the wondrous rural spots and magnificent nature in your own country? This kind of traveling involves hiking or camping, visiting eco-resorts focused on sustainable tourism, and allows you to connect with nature miraculously. You can choose a guided hike instead of a tourism company and encourage nature appreciation this way. Just remember, apply the leave-nothing-behind approach and take everything you’ve brought with you. In that way, you will not disturb the particular ecosystem.

‍

In Conclusion

Going for more sustainable traveling options has become a necessity. If we do not take action, no one will do that for us. We have only one planet, and it is our mutual home. It is up to us to save it and make it a better place!

‍

Hero image of Times Square, NYC