Wings Without a Trace: How to Travel More Sustainably Without Sacrificing Joy
Sustainable travel might feel like a new buzzword, but at its heart, it’s about something many of us already value: being kind to the planet and the communities we visit. The good news is that while eco-friendly tourism can sometimes seem like just a trend, there are plenty of places around the world that are seriously implementing sustainable tourism initiatives. And the best part? You don’t have to sacrifice joy or adventure to be part of it. With a few simple changes, you can reduce your impact, support local economies, and still have the trip of a lifetime.
Why Sustainable Travel Matters
When we set off to explore new places—especially nature- and wildlife-rich destinations—it’s easy to forget the ripple effect of our presence. But the way we travel affects ecosystems, local cultures, and even animal welfare. That doesn’t mean we should stop exploring - it just means we have a responsibility to do so thoughtfully.
Think of it like applying the Leave No Trace principles, often used in camping and hiking, to travel in general. At its core, Leave No Trace is about minimizing your footprint: taking only memories, leaving only footprints (and preferably, even fewer of those). Whether you're camping in Colorado or wandering through a remote Arctic village, the same idea applies; respect the place, its people, and its wildlife.
Reducing our impact isn’t just about the environment—it’s also an act of respect for the communities we visit. When we’re mindful about our presence, we help preserve cultural heritage, avoid overwhelming local infrastructure, and contribute to economies that depend on tourism in ways that are sustainable and supportive.
Choosing local guides, staying in smaller guesthouses, and eating at locally-owned restaurants helps ensure that more of your travel dollars stay within the community, creating jobs and opportunities while also protecting the area’s long-term health and identity.
Simple Ways to Travel More Sustainably
You don’t have to be perfect to make a positive impact. These small steps add up:
Pack light and bring reusable essentials like a water bottle, tote bag, and travel utensils. Less weight means less fuel burned during flights, and reusable gear cuts down on waste. Consider a water bottle with a built-in purifier (like one with UV light) to stay hydrated while keeping the planet safe!
Choose eco-conscious lodging when possible—many accommodations now hold certifications or have sustainability initiatives in place.
Support local: Eat at family-run restaurants, shop at local markets, and book tours with community-based guides and businesses.
Reef-friendly sunscreen is a must for coastal destinations to protect delicate marine ecosystems.
Travel off-season to tourist-heavy spots. Not only will you enjoy a more relaxed trip, but you'll also help lessen the strain on crowded destinations during peak times.
Stay longer at your destination! Slow down and enjoy the whole vibe - lots of the time, people try to cram as many destinations as possible in the time they have. The result? You get absolutely EXHAUSTED without really feeling like you experienced the places you went! Additionally less travel time to multiple destinations means less carbon footprint. Win/win.
Seek out new, off-the-beaten-path destinations that are less affected by mass tourism. These places often offer unique experiences while keeping their authenticity intact and spreads your tourism dollars to communities that need them.
Respecting Nature and Wildlife
One of the most rewarding parts of travel is connecting with wildlife and nature; that’s also where ethics matter most. Avoid experiences that exploit animals, like riding elephants or taking selfies with sedated wildlife. Instead, look for sanctuaries, preserves, and wildlife tours run by trained naturalists who prioritize animal welfare and education, and choose excursions that utilize eco-friendly transport options (like electric boats or vehicles) while being respectful of wildlife (not chasing them or interfering with them in any way). I know it’s so tempting to get up close and personal with wildlife, but the hard facts are that they are not toys that are just there for our amusement. Respect wildlife and the ecosystems they live in. I promise it’s just as rewarding.
Even small acts, like staying on marked trails or giving animals plenty of space, can help protect sensitive ecosystems.
How You Get There Matters
Transportation plays a big role in your travel footprint. If you can, try to:
Take direct flights to reduce emissions
Offset your carbon emissions through reliable programs
Use public transit or eco-friendly rentals once you arrive
And if you're traveling closer to home, even better! There are so many amazing places nearby that help you disconnect and recharge without hopping on a plane.
Traveling with Respect for People and Place
Sustainable travel isn’t just about protecting the environment. It’s also about honoring the people and cultures that make each place unique. At its heart, it’s about traveling with humility; recognizing that we are guests, not just consumers of a destination.
When we choose to support local businesses, listen and learn about cultural norms, or even just make an effort to say thank you in the local language, we’re saying: we see you, we respect you, and we’re grateful to be here (BONUS!! This is why when you book travel with me, every itinerary I create includes a section of education information, including a list of helpful phrases in the local language you can easily refer to when traveling!).
Sometimes, respect also looks like accepting that not every place is meant for us at every moment. Whether it’s a region recovering from environmental strain, a community asking for space, or a cultural site that isn’t open to visitors, sustainable travel reminds us that we’re not entitled to go everywhere or do everything we want. And that’s okay.
Coming from a place of humility means understanding that travel is a privilege - a gift, not a guarantee. The more we approach it that way, the more meaningful our experiences become, and the more we help preserve those places for others to experience with the same sense of awe and gratitude.
Little Steps, Big Difference
Sustainable travel isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being mindful. Each time you choose a reusable item over a disposable one, or book a stay that gives back to the local community, you’re contributing to a better future for travel.
If we all do a little, it adds up to a lot.
Do Your Research (or Let Your Travel Agent Do It for You!)
Sustainability means something different to each person. Whether it’s reducing waste, supporting local businesses, or choosing eco-friendly accommodations, your personal travel ethos is what matters most. That’s where I come in - I’m here to help you focus on the sustainability features that are most important to you, and ensure your trip aligns with your values.
One of the easiest and most impactful ways to travel sustainably is to support local economies. Shopping local, eating at family-run restaurants, or booking tours led by local guides means more of your travel dollars stay within the community. Plus, it opens up a whole new world of unique experiences—from tasting local dishes to picking up one-of-a-kind souvenirs and discovering activities you may never have thought of before. It’s the perfect way to make your travels even more memorable while contributing positively to the places you visit.
For more tips on sustainable travel, check out these amazing resources:
Questions, comments or stories about your own eco-friendly travel journeys? I’d love to hear them! Share them with me and with others in the comments below, and we can all make each others travels - and the world - a better place together.
Yours in flight,
Tianna
