Travel is one of the few things that costs something - and yet enriches people on so many levels. People who travel broaden their horizons, get to know other ways of life, immerse themselves in foreign worlds and create memories for eternity. To ensure that future generations can also enjoy this privilege, the tourism industry is also increasingly focusing on sustainability. While hotels and tour operators are taking measures on their side, travellers themselves can also make every trip a more sustainable vacation with just a few tricks.

1. focus on sustainable providers

Fortunately, the selection of sustainable tour operators and hotels is now very large. And that sustainability does not come at the expense of comfort is proven by luxurious collections such as The Living Circle, andBeyond, Six Senses, Beyond Green and co. In the Maldives, the Patina Maldives has an incomparably consistent sustainability strategy. Booking platforms like Faircations help find and book responsible travel options. And because sustainability is so much more than just protecting the environment, the SocialBnB was launched. The company makes travel with a positive impact bookable.

2. all inclusive offers

Admittedly, it's practical: if you book an all-inclusive option, you don't have to worry about much when on vacation. The credit card or wallet stays in the room and the question of where to go for dinner is also taken care of. From a sustainability point of view, however, the concept is usually not as good. Because the surrounding restaurants, small producers and stores have nothing to gain from this form of vacation. If possible, it is better to stay away from all-inclusive where the offer is available and instead make the most of the local foodie scene .

3. greener journey to the destination

You don't necessarily have to drive or fly everywhere. Many destinations, especially in Europe, can also easily be visited by train. Some hotels even reward guests who travel in an environmentally friendly manner with discounts on room bookings. If a flight is unavoidable, you can travel via platforms like Atmosfair , which provides climate compensation. This works by donating to environmental protection projects through the company.

4. avoid disposable products

Of course, it's practical when you come to your hotel room and find everything you need in terms of daily care products. From soap to shower gel, body lotion and conditioner, everything is usually there. But often packed in small plastic bottles. Even the bar of soap that is only used once comes in plastic packaging and then ends up in the trash. So why not invest five minutes at home and bring care products yourself? This has the added advantage that neither skin nor hair have to get used to something new.

5. pack conscientiously

Every extra gram of luggage causes additional CO2 emissions. So travelling with lighter luggage is more climate-friendly. You can do laundry almost anywhere in the world. So why not just pack for one week, even if you're travelling for longer? The environment is happy - and you have less to carry. 

6. being conscious on the road

Sustainable vacation: this is not synonymous with wild camping in a one-man tent. On the contrary, every vacation can be made a little more environmentally friendly with simple measures. Every contribution counts, no matter how small. It starts, for example, by booking excursions with locals and also paying attention to the origin when buying souvenirs. Refillable water bottles save a lot of waste on the road. And you don't necessarily have to change your towels every day at the hotel, do you? Another tip: if you want to protect the oceans when swimming, make sure you use reef-friendly sunscreen.