How to travel sustainably: 9 practical tips

Climate change is a crisis that affects us all. And not only that: if we continue as we are, our grandchildren and their children will have to pay the price.

That's why, when traveling, as with many other topics today, one thing applies above all: doing without is good, but acting sustainably is better - because living with respect for the environment does not necessarily mean living badly.

This is precisely why we are taking a closer look at the topic of " sustainable travel " here. We will clarify any open questions and convince even the last skeptics : traveling sustainably is just as much fun as traveling thoughtlessly. At the same time, we will show that it is not just about climate change.

With our 9 tips on the topic, you will definitely be much more sustainable in the future than before.

Support the local economy by choosing regional products rather than buying from large supermarket chains. Also choose accommodation that operates sustainably – but more on that in a moment.

To make the differences between normal and sustainable travel a little clearer to you, we have summarized the most important differences in a table just for you :

In a world that is increasingly affected by the consequences of climate change and the overexploitation of natural resources, sustainable travel is becoming more and more important . But how can you as an individual do your part to not only support this trend, but to actively live it?

Our tips provide you with an easy-to-implement guide to make your vacation more environmentally friendly and culturally sensitive.

Costa Rica is a model of sustainability, known for its commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050. With over a quarter of its land under conservation, it offers unique opportunities for ecotourism.

Visitors can experience the diversity of nature while learning to reduce their ecological footprint, supported by the extensive use of renewable energy. It is the perfect destination for those who take sustainable travel seriously.

Bhutan, also known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, stands out because it sequesters more CO₂ than it releases. This is largely thanks to its dense forest cover, which covers more than 70% of the country. Environmental protection is firmly enshrined in Bhutan's constitution, which shows how seriously the country takes sustainability .

With its policy of “ high value, low impact ” tourism, Bhutan focuses on quality rather than quantity. This approach not only protects Bhutan’s unique culture and environment, but also ensures that tourism revenues go directly to environmental protection and social development.

Rwanda , once scarred by civil war, has become a model country in Africa in terms of cleanliness and environmental protection. A key to this success is the strict ban on plastic bags.

In addition, there is the nationwide community day " Umuganda ", when all citizens come together once a month to collect garbage and thus do their part to protect the environment. These initiatives underline Rwanda's strong commitment to a clean and green future.

In the tourism sector, Rwanda is also committed to sustainability . The protection of the mountain gorillas, a valuable treasure of the country, is a particular focus. Sustainable tourism practices and strict regulations for visitors ensure that Rwanda's natural resources are preserved.

Finland is a country that impresses with its clean air, vast forests and numerous lakes. It takes environmental protection seriously and is committed to tourism that protects its nature. Finland supports accommodation that operates in an ecologically sustainable manner , promotes outdoor activities that respect the environment and relies on renewable energy sources.

The Finns themselves strive to keep their CO₂ emissions low and also encourage their guests to be conscious of nature and its protection.

New Zealand is considered by many to be the last paradise on earth and has launched the " Tiaki Promise " initiative to encourage visitors to treat the country with care. The government and the tourism industry work hand in hand to promote tourism that preserves New Zealand's nature and cultural heritage.

With offerings ranging from sustainable viticulture to ecotourism adventures, New Zealand places great emphasis on protecting its spectacular landscapes and Maori culture.

If you really want to travel sustainably , you should make sure to use environmentally friendly means of transport when you get there. This is especially true if you are travelling to your destination by plane - sometimes this simply cannot be avoided.

If you use public transport , cycle or walk, you can keep your local carbon footprint small. In some countries, such as Japan, China, Taiwan or India, there are also well-developed rail networks that offer an alternative to domestic flights.

When choosing your accommodation, you can do a lot for the environment. Look specifically for hotels or guesthouses that are committed to environmentally friendly practices - be it through energy efficiency, water conservation measures or the use of local products.

You can find many such accommodations on specialised platforms such as Fairweg or SlowTravelHotels or through direct recommendations. There you will find numerous vegan hotels and vegan wellness hotels.

For many travelers, eating local specialties is the absolute highlight of any trip. Trying the cuisine of the country you are in not only provides an authentic experience, but also strengthens the local economy.

By choosing seasonal foods and visiting markets, you support local people while minimizing the ecological footprint of your meals .

Invest in reusable products like water bottles, bamboo cutlery or solar chargers . There are numerous innovative and eco-friendly gadgets that are not only practical but also good for the planet.

By using sustainable travel items, you can reduce your plastic consumption and make a positive contribution to protecting the environment. When choosing your equipment, make sure to choose products that are durable and manufactured in an environmentally friendly way.

In everything you do, it is important that you are aware of your impact . Your behavior makes a difference; you are not just one person among many. Seemingly small things can often make a big difference.

For example, avoid single-use plastic by using reusable containers and water bottles. Respect local wildlife and natural habitats by keeping safe distances and not feeding wildlife.

Cultural sensitivity and respect are essential everywhere and at all times – at home as well as on holiday. Therefore, find out about local customs and traditions in advance. This will promote mutual understanding and avoid unpleasant situations.

If you have been thinking about the topic " What is sustainability? " for a while, you probably know that long-distance travel generally doesn't have much to do with sustainability. That's why it's much easier to travel sustainably if you stay close to where you live.

There are many places in Germany that are worth a trip even for conscious people like you. For example, try a vegan brunch in Berlin , a vegan restaurant in Düsseldorf, a vegan restaurant in Munich or a vegan café in Berlin .

When you travel, you often have the opportunity to participate directly in local environmental protection projects . Many destinations offer volunteer programs where you can help with things like protecting endangered species or reforestation.

These experiences not only provide a unique insight into the local environment and culture, but also allow you to actively make a difference. Find out about such projects before your trip and plan to dedicate some of your time to environmental protection.