Romantic Planet Vacations Tips on How to Be a Responsible Tourist

To have responsible tourism, one needs to be a responsible tourist. Here are some tips on doing just so.

1) Look for airline fleets that use biofuels as they produce 60% less carbon emissions. The alternative is traveling on newer, more fuel efficient airplanes.

2) Pack light. Did you know that one can of pop costs an airline $6700 in extra fuel expense per year? Do you really need that extra pair of shoes?

3) Bring your own water bottle. This will greatly reduce the single-use plastics that are clogging our oceans. Fill it up at the water fountain at the airport once you clear customs and you’re good to go.

4) Bring your own food on the plane or choose the vegetarian option.

5) Consider a hotel that has eliminated plastic straws and water bottles.

6) At the hotel, turn off lights and the A/C when not in use.

7) Consider using public transit over taxis or buses. Many major cities now have a light-rail or subway train that travels to the airport.

8) Bring your own cutlery. No more plastics to add to the problem.

9) Make a donation to off-set your carbon foot-print. Depending on your flight, the cost to off-set your carbon foot-print is only between $8 – $22 per person!

10) Travel off-the-beaten path to protect popular areas from over-tourism.

11) Book with  a travel agency that has a sustainable tourism policy.

12) Reduce your carbon foot-print at home.

13) Travel with companies that have an animal welfare policy. Try not to partake in shark dives, running with the bulls, elephant rides & swimming with the dolphins.

14) Support the local community by buying  local cuisine and artisan crafts while traveling.

15) Consider philanthropic excursions with your trip such as visiting a school and donating school supplies, partaking in turtle release programs, rebuilding orphanages and more.

We can certainly all do our part – big or small.