Tips for Sustainable Travel

Choose travel dates to avoid overtourism

As tourism continues to match and even grow past pre-pandemic levels, it’s more important than ever to be aware of the impacts of overtourism. When too many people visit the same location, it can strain local infrastructure and damage natural resources, creating a negative experience for both locals and tourists. You might not be able to appreciate famous sights with so many people around, and paths and streets may not have been designed for a high level of foot traffic. In the worst-case scenarios, people may become so frustrated with the crowding that they begin to break traffic laws or forget common courtesy, resulting in a miserable experience for everyone. Consider traveling during your destination’s off-season to limit your impact on local communities and create a better experience for yourself. Who wants to be shoulder to shoulder with a million other tourists anyway?

Pack light

One of the most significant contributors to airplane fuel efficiency is weight. The heavier an aircraft is, the more fuel it must burn to reach its destination, resulting in more carbon releasing into the atmosphere.

Reducing the weight of your bag or taking a smaller carry-on instead of checking a larger suitcase is an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint. Take advantage of the smaller space by bringing higher-quality clothes and reusable goods or doing laundry while on your trip instead of taking a new outfit for every day.

Use Citi Travel^® to travel smart

Using Citi Travel^®, eligible Citi^® cardmembers can access deals on flights, hotels and car rentals. Use these savings to spring for a direct flight to lower emissions generated by your trip, or book an eco-friendly hotel at your destination. Plus, you can redeem Citi ThankYou ^® points to help pay for your trip, allowing you more room in your budget to support local economies.

Getting around: eco-friendly transportation

Using eco-friendly travel methods isn’t just a way to help protect the earth — it may help you save time and money as well.

Public transit

Did you know that replacing a single car ride with public transit results in 30% less emissions per trip? Many top travel destinations around the world are home to first-in-class public transportation systems. Consider taking the train, bus or subway while seeing the sights. Not only will you reduce your carbon footprint, but you’ll also have a chance to see the city like a local.

Hybrid and electric vehicles

If you’re renting a car, consider getting a hybrid or electric vehicle. It’s a great way to save money on gas while giving back to the planet. Many mobile apps can provide maps of charging locations, and you can filter results by your car’s specific charger type.

Carbon offsets

Carbon offsets are a way for individuals to fund sustainable projects that fight climate change. These projects may include renewable energy development, waste mitigation or reforestation. You pay based on the amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) released during your trip, and you can purchase offsets at any time before, during or after your trip. 

Where to stay, eat and play as a sustainable tourist

Traveling with an eye toward sustainable tourism can create memorable experiences during every moment of your vacation.

Green lodgings

When browsing for places to stay, look for hotels that emphasize sustainability. These hotels might focus on reducing water use by washing linens less frequently or avoiding single-use plastics like straws or individual soap containers. You can still find luxurious accommodations while staying green.

Local cuisine

Looking for a bite to eat? Try to pick restaurants that prioritize local ingredients or sustainable fishing practices. You might even consider a vegetarian or vegan meal to help reduce your impact on the environment.

Support local businesses

Sustainability isn’t just about reducing your carbon footprint. Shopping at family-run stores or taking a tour with a local guide can help stimulate the local economy, helping residents make a living in high-priced tourist areas. Review your favorites on social media to get more eyes on those home-grown goods.

Everyday sustainable travel tips

Even the smallest actions can help support a sustainable future.

Respect the natural world

If you’re headed to a national park or stunning natural vista, make sure to be respectful. Don’t litter, set up unofficial campsites or touch or feed local wildlife. Leave natural areas as you found them so everyone can enjoy them long after you’ve gone home.

Reduce, reuse, recycle

Reducing the amount of waste you create is an easy way to stay sustainable. Bring a metal water bottle and refill it while you’re out instead of buying multiple plastic water bottles, or store your purchases in a backpack so you don’t need so many plastic shopping bags. Keep track of your trash and make sure you deposit any recyclables in the proper bins.

Be culturally mindful

Remember, while traveling, you’re a guest. Respect other cultures by following the local customs. Cover up if you enter a site that has restrictions on bare skin or tattoos, walk on the correct side of the sidewalk or stairs and be aware of cultural differences around customs like tipping compared to the U.S. Learning a few survival phrases will help you manage language barriers. People might cut you a little slack if they see you’re making an effort to learn about their culture.

Maximize your experience, minimize your footprint

The golden rule of eco-friendly travel is to take only memories and leave only footprints. By staying respectful and making an effort to reduce your impact on the environment, you can help maintain the cultural and environmental history of countries around the globe. It only takes a small step to make an impact and travel sustainably.

Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.

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