Sustainable travel: ways to become a more eco-friendly tourist

A key factor in sustainable travel is how we choose to get from place to place. Transport is responsible for a large share of tourism-related greenhouse gas emissions, so making thoughtful choices can significantly reduce our footprint. Below is a short overview of common transport options, comparing their emissions and eco-friendliness.

Train

Traveling by train remains one of the most environmentally friendly ways to cover long distances. Rail produces relatively low CO₂ emissions per passenger, and many modern trains are powered by electricity, often sourced from renewables. On top of that, train journeys offer comfort, scenic views, and the chance to relax or work during the trip.

Coach

Although coaches may be seen as less comfortable for long rides, they are in fact an eco-friendlier option. Because emissions are shared across many passengers, coaches end up producing fewer emissions per person compared to cars or planes.

Plane

Air travel is one of the largest contributors to CO₂ emissions in tourism. While flying is often the quickest way to travel, its environmental impact is far greater than that of rail or coach travel. Short-haul flights, especially those easily replaced by train connections, are particularly damaging. It’s better to opt for alternatives when possible or choose direct flights, which are less polluting than those with layovers.

Bicycle

Cycling is the most eco-conscious choice of all, generating zero CO₂ emissions (apart from the energy we get from food!). Though it takes more time and effort, it offers a unique chance to engage with local communities, enjoy nature, and discover hidden paths. Bicycle tourism is becoming more popular not just among athletes but also among travelers in search of authentic adventures.

“Slow travel” – intentional, unhurried journeys

The trend of “slow travel” is also gaining momentum as part of the sustainability movement. Instead of cramming multiple destinations into a short trip, it focuses on staying longer in one place and exploring it deeply. Slow travel promotes greener modes of transport, fosters stronger ties with local communities, and reduces the strain of mass tourism. This approach not only lowers emissions but also creates more meaningful travel experiences.

 

Eco-conscious accommodation

Selecting accommodation is another crucial step in sustainable travel. More and more tourists are paying attention to the environmental practices of hotels and guesthouses, and many owners are responding by implementing greener solutions and promoting eco-responsible hospitality.

Hotels and guesthouses with green certifications

Across the globe, an increasing number of properties hold certifications that verify their environmental standards. Examples include Green Key, EU Ecolabel, and LEED. Such places often adopt measures to lower energy and water use, rely on renewable energy, minimize waste, and protect local biodiversity. Guests can feel assured that their stay is environmentally responsible while often supporting the local economy and community at the same time.

Glamping and agritourism as eco-options

For travelers looking for more authentic, nature-centered experiences, glamping and agritourism are appealing choices. Glamping – luxury camping – combines the comfort of a hotel stay with the experience of living in close contact with nature. Agritourism, meanwhile, offers the peace of rural surroundings along with opportunities to experience farm life, local customs, and regional cuisine.

Both options encourage a more sustainable approach to travel by reducing mass tourism and supporting local hosts. Moreover, staying in such places often deepens guests’ ecological awareness, showing what living in harmony with nature looks like and how simple eco-friendly practices can be applied in daily life.

 

Ethical and local experiences on-site

Eco-conscious travel goes beyond transport and accommodation. Just as important are the choices we make at our destination – where we eat, what we buy, and how we spend our time. Responsible decisions can lessen our environmental footprint while supporting local communities and preserving their cultural heritage.

Supporting local communities

One of the simplest and most impactful ways to support locals is by choosing products and services directly from them. Shopping with artisans not only provides unique, authentic souvenirs but also helps sustain traditional crafts passed down through generations. The same applies to dining – eating in family-owned restaurants allows travelers to enjoy genuine regional food while boosting the local economy.

Such decisions help travelers connect more deeply with the culture of their destination, while ensuring that the money spent remains in the region, fostering development and improving residents’ quality of life.

Avoiding harmful attractions for animals and the environment

Many well-known tourist attractions, especially those involving animals, carry serious ethical and ecological costs. Examples include elephant rides, posing with wild animals, dolphin shows, or theme parks that use animals for entertainment. Such activities often involve animal suffering, cruel training practices, and separation from their natural habitat.

Equally concerning are attractions driven by mass tourism that put unsustainable pressure on local ecosystems, causing damage such as coral reef destruction, water pollution, or the overuse of natural landscapes.

A better choice is to opt for activities that align with conservation and animal welfare principles – for example, guided hikes with local experts, craft workshops, cooking classes, or educational nature tours conducted responsibly.

 

Natural cork accessories – a sustainable alternative to plastic

When packing for a trip, it is worth considering not only your means of transport and accommodation but also the accessories you bring along. Recently, natural cork products have been gaining popularity as eco-friendly substitutes for plastic items.

Why natural cork is an environmentally friendly choice

Natural cork is sourced from the bark of the cork oak. Crucially, the harvesting process does not involve cutting down the tree — the bark is removed in a way that allows the tree to regenerate naturally. This makes cork a completely renewable resource. A cork oak can be harvested every 9–12 years, ensuring that cork production not only avoids permanent damage to the environment but also helps protect cork forests, which play a vital role in the ecosystem.

Another important benefit of natural cork is that it is biodegradable. Unlike plastic, which can persist for centuries, cork products break down naturally without leaving lasting waste. On top of that, cork is lightweight, strong, water-resistant, and hypoallergenic, making it a perfect material for travel gear.

Examples of natural cork products

The variety of cork-based products continues to grow each year, offering travelers many stylish and practical alternatives to plastic items. Some examples include:

• Cork bags – durable, lightweight, and elegant, suitable for both daily outings and extended trips.

• Keychains and lanyards – practical, resistant to moisture, and environmentally friendly.

• Cups with cork elements – an eco-friendly substitute for single-use plastic cups and bottles, helping to cut down on waste.

• Passport and document holders – stylish and functional accessories that keep essentials safe while reflecting eco-conscious values.

 

Summary

Traveling is a wonderful way to explore the world and ourselves, but with the growing climate crisis and environmental damage, more people are realizing the need to adapt their habits. Being an eco-friendly traveler doesn’t mean giving up the joys of travel — in fact, it allows for richer, more thoughtful, and more responsible experiences.

As the eco-trends outlined here show, every stage of a trip — from transport choices and accommodation to daily decisions at the destination — provides opportunities for more sustainable practices.

 

FAQ

1. Is sustainable travel more costly?

Not necessarily. While certain eco-options — like certified hotels or locally sourced goods — may be slightly more expensive, they often prove more cost-effective over time. For instance, traveling by train can be cheaper than flying, and eating in family-owned restaurants is often less pricey than in tourist-oriented venues. Plus, embracing minimalism and avoiding overconsumption helps cut expenses significantly.

2. Are natural cork products long-lasting?

Yes. Natural cork is resilient, flexible, and resistant to water. These properties make cork-based accessories like bags, cases, or cups reliable for many years. They are also light, comfortable to use, and stylish. By choosing cork products, you’re investing in both durability and sustainability.

3. What are some ways to cut down on plastic while traveling?

Bring along reusable essentials: a refillable bottle, metal or bamboo cutlery, a cloth shopping bag, or a travel mug. Solid toiletries (like bar shampoos or soaps) are also a smart choice, as they eliminate plastic packaging. When shopping, avoid single-use packaging and opt for local products sold in bulk. Each small step helps significantly reduce waste.