Eco-friendly travel

Things to do

Eco-friendly travel

Lower-impact choices that genuinely make a difference rather than just sounding good.

Eco-friendly travel

Lower-impact choices that genuinely make a difference rather than just sounding good.

The guidance below is deliberately practical. It is the short list of things that change the outcome of a trip, rather than a general overview you could find anywhere. Read it once while planning and again the week before you travel.

What to know

The points that make the most difference, in rough order of importance.

  • Fewer, longer trips beat many short ones
  • Ground transport over short-haul flights where possible
  • Locally owned stays keep money in the region
  • Certification schemes vary; check what the label requires

Quick reference

  • Plan thisThree to six weeks out for most trips
  • Book aheadAnything capacity-limited or permit-based
  • Verify locallyRules and prices change; confirm on arrival
  • Budget impactVaries by region and season

Related guides

Other guides in the same section.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most important thing to know about eco-friendly travel?

Fewer, longer trips beat many short ones.

How far ahead should I plan this?

For most trips, research this three to six weeks before you travel, and sooner if anything involved has limited capacity or requires a permit.

Does this differ by country?

Yes. Rules, costs and norms vary, so treat this as a general framework and confirm the specifics for your destination before booking.

Keep planning