10 Responsible Travel Tips

I believe that luxury and responsibility go hand in hand. Whether you‘re jetting off to a secluded island or exploring vibrant cities, small mindful choices can make a big impact. Here are 10 practical and inspiring tips to help you travel more responsibly, without compromising on experience.

1. Choose low-carbon travel options -Opt for direct flights, pack light, and consider airlines ranked for carbon efficiency. Where possible, swap short-haul flights for scenic train journeys or hybrid car rentals. Every choice counts.
2. Stay sustainably- Look for accommodation with sustainability certifications like Travelife. These hotels actively reduce energy use, support local communities, and minimise waste, all without sacrificing comfort or style.
3. Eat local & seasonal- Support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint by choosing plant-based meals and seasonal produce. It’s a delicious way to connect with the culture and tread lightly on the planet. You don‘t have to do this every day, but once or twice can make a difference. Also consider switching at least one all-inclusive break to bed and breakfast or even half board so you can enjoy dining locally; you‘ll be supporting the local people and get to sample some incredible food!
4. Buy local, by thoughtfully- Skip mass-produced souvenirs and seek out handcrafted items from local artisans. Not only do you support the local economy, but you also take home something truly unique.
5. Reduce waste, especially plastic- Bring a reusable water bottle, avoid plastic straws, and pack a lightweight tote bag. These small swaps help protect oceans and landscapes from long-lasting pollution. Plus, some destinations will not allow plastics.
6. Conserve water- In many destinations, water is a precious resource. Take shorter showers, reuse towels, and limit laundry requests, especially in areas facing water scarcity.
7. Respect wildlife & nature- Choose ethical wildlife experiences and never buy souvenirs made from endangered species. Check your sunscreen ingredients too - oxybenzone harms coral reefs. If an animal is being fed to attract them to humans, it's generally not a good sign. Even places described as ethical may not be, and so always check and if unsure, avoid it - your conscience will thank you. We love the beach but are sad to see the litter and often do a beach litter pick on our travels - a little thank you to nature and the local community for our visit.
8. Protect children & communities- Avoid giving money to begging children or visiting orphanages. Instead, support reputable NGOs that empower communities through education and sustainable development. You can always ask ahead to your hotel or travel agent to see if there are any items the locals need. We've taken things in our suitcases before for the locals - books, paper, toiletries, etc. If you do want to do this, it's always worth asking before you head out to make sure you're taking what's needed.
9. Use your voice- Ask your hotel about its sustainability practices, share your responsible travel choices on social media, and encourage others to follow suit. If no one speaks up, nothing will change, and so every voice matters.
10. Travel off the beaten track- explore lesser-known destinations or travel during shoulder seasons to reduce the impact of over-tourism. You’ll discover hidden gems and help preserve iconic places for future generations.

You'll be surprised at how many changes are easy to implement and how they add to your enjoyment of your travels rather than take anything away.