By making small changes to the way that we travel, we can all make a positive difference to the people and environment in destinations we love to visit. Plus you can help to keep holidays special for generations to come.
We can all:
– Help to protect the environment and natural resources
– Help to protect endangered plant and animal species
– Help families that live in holiday destinations to earn a fair living from tourism
– Help ensure that local cultures and traditions thrive
Buy local
Buying locally-made souvenirs, eating and drinking at local bars, cafes and restaurants and taking excursions using local guides are great ways to get more out of your holiday and ensure local people benefit from your stay.
Use water and energy sparingly
Take short showers rather than baths, reuse towels and bed linen rather than having them replaced daily, turn down/off heating and air-conditioning when not required, turn off all lights and appliances when you leave your room.
Respect the local culture and traditions
Dress and act appropriately for the place that you are visiting – do a little background reading before you go away or ask your holiday rep for advice.
Remove packaging from items that you are taking away with you many countries are unable to cope with high levels of waste and don’t have recycling services.
Before you go
Start enjoying your holiday before you go by doing some background reading on the place you’ll be visiting. Your welcome will be warmer if you take an interest and speak a few simple phrases in the local language.
Offsetting your carbon emissions
Consider offsetting your carbon emissions from your flight with a scheme such as our offset partner Climate Care. Please also remember to take all other action to reduce carbon emissions on your holiday – offsetting isn’t enough on its own.
At your accommodation
As well as using water and energy sparingly, please help to reduce waste by using cloth bags instead of plastic, and re-using plastic cups and water bottles.
Shopping when you’re there
When you buy local souvenirs, always be sure to bargain with good humour and bear in mind that a small cash saving to you could be a significant amount of money to the seller.
Please don’t buy products made from endangered or wild animals and plants including coral, shells, starfish, horns, teeth and animal skins and fur.
If in doubt, don’t buy.
Exploring the area
Use public transport where you can. Alternatively hire a bike or walk when exploring. Always try to book excursions and trips with qualified local guides.
Thanks to our friends over at the Travel Foundation for helping us create our Travel Lightly guide!
