Sustainable travel: practical tips to reduce your carbon footprint on the go

Let’s be real. Flying isn’t great for the planet. Sure, that flight to Bali or Barcelona might feel harmless (hello, beach vibes and tapas), but it comes with an environmental impact.  There’s just no sugarcoating it. But for many of us, it’s unavoidable. Whether it’s visiting family, heading on a work trip, or exploring new places, sometimes there’s no other option.

The good news?

You can reduce your footprint without giving up travel. Sustainable travel and tourism are mostly about making smarter choices – big and small – to minimize your impact. And a few simple tweaks can go a really long way. 

Pack lighter (both your bags AND your conscience)

The lighter your luggage, the less fuel your plane burns. If you’ve ever wondered why airlines charge you extra for a hefty suitcase, now you know: heavy bags burn more fuel. So pack only the essentials and leave that extra pair of shoes behind. Less weight = less fuel = better for the environment. Plus, you'll be traveling sustainably in more ways than one. Sustainable travel isn’t just about how you get there; it’s also about how you show up.

Opt for sustainable travel products

Okay, let’s talk about the eco-friendly goodies. There are lots of travel accessories out there that can help reduce your environmental impact. Reusable water bottles, bamboo toothbrushes, and even compostable phone chargers. Every small change helps, so toss that plastic water bottle habit and opt for something reusable. If you're serious about making air travel more sustainable, these little things make a difference. 

Offset your carbon emissions

Here’s a fun fact: every time you book a flight, you can choose to offset your carbon emissions. Most airlines offer carbon offset programs where you can contribute a small amount of money to projects that help reduce CO2 emissions (like planting trees or supporting renewable energy). It’s like donating to Mother Earth while still getting your travel fix.

Don’t forget about sustainable accommodation

Okay, we’re talking about flying, but let’s not forget accommodation. A lot of hotels and hostels are getting on the sustainability train, offering things like towel reuse programs and using renewable energy. Look for places that prioritize eco-friendly practices, and you’ll be doing your part to help the planet even when you’re not in the air. 

Travel smarter and go local

When you land, do what you can to stay green. Use public transport instead of renting a car, walk or cycle when you can, and explore businesses that are committed to sourcing products locally. You’ll get a richer experience while also reducing your impact. 

Be kind to yourself (and the planet)

At the end of the day, sustainability isn’t about being perfect — it’s about trying. Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a step. After all, tourism and sustainability are ongoing conversations, and every step counts. Travel is about experiencing new things, so embrace the journey and do what you can to reduce your impact — no matter how small.

So there you go, jetsetter! Now you’re ready to reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing the adventure. 

While you're out there making eco-friendly choices, it’s also good to know that if your flights don’t go to plan, you don’t have to miss out. If yours was delayed, canceled, or overbooked in the last 3 years, you could be eligible for up to €600 in compensation.

Use AirHelp’s free check to find out how much you're owed.