I was fortunate to go dolphin-watching this weekend, where I had the pleasure of being completely out of reach on my phone. This essentially translated to a much-needed phone detox, all under the sun, gazing at the Black Sea while eagerly anticipating the sight of dolphins. As you might guess, it was plastic that I spotted long before any dolphins or other marine life, sparking the inspiration for today’s blog post.
When we’re at home, it’s relatively easy to control our purchasing choices, recycling habits, and general sustainability efforts. But what about when we travel? Are we as mindful of our environmental impact on the road as we are in our everyday lives? I believe it’s crucial to carry these values with us while traveling. Trust me, it’s easier than it sounds once you grasp the essence of it!
First Commandment: Travel with a bamboo cup
Do you enjoy a cup of coffee or tea at home? If you do, why not bring a bamboo cup with you? It’s a simple, space-saving addition to your travel gear, and you can use it when you order coffee on the go while exploring a new city. The disposable paper cups provided by coffee shops usually contain plastic, making them difficult to recycle and potentially releasing harmful substances into your beverage. Having a bamboo cup with you is not only a greener choice but also a healthier one!
Second Commandment: Skip the straw
In Paris, most establishments inquire if you’d like a straw with your drink. This isn’t the case everywhere. When ordering your drink, kindly let them know you don’t require a straw. It’s a simple step; the challenge is remembering to do it!
Third Commandment: Pack your travel snacks from home
If you anticipate needing snacks for a longer journey before reaching your destination, plan ahead and pack them from home. I typically opt for fruits like bananas or apples. This way, you can avoid purchasing sugary treats packaged in plastic at the airport or train station. And don’t forget to explore local supermarkets for fruit options – it’s not just eco-friendly, but budget-friendly too!
Fourth Commandment: Be mindful of hotel toiletries
I know those tiny hotel toiletries are tempting, but more often than not, we only use a fraction of them. The rest end up in local landfills. Personally, I choose to use the provided soap and bring shampoo from home.
Fifth Commandment: Maintain your eco-conscious shopping habits
If you consciously reduce plastic usage when shopping at home, stick to the same principles while traveling. Carry a reusable tote bag with you; it’s compact and keeps you from accepting plastic bags. Try to avoid purchasing items wrapped in plastic, and politely decline unnecessary packaging.
Sixth Commandment: Think twice about souvenirs and impulse buys
Resist the urge to buy items you probably won’t use or that lack quality despite their attractive price. Invest in things you genuinely need and prioritize quality over quantity. In the long run, cheaper items often end up costing more.
Seventh Commandment: Travel light
Packing light not only spares your back but also benefits the environment.
Eighth Commandment: Embrace local cuisine and protect endangered species
Opt for local food whenever possible and abstain from consuming fish or animals that are endangered.
Ninth Commandment: Conserve water and electricity in your hotel room
Mind your consumption to reduce waste and environmental impact.
Tenth Commandment: Revel in your sustainable travels
Remember, every small gesture counts, and you’re making a positive difference by traveling sustainably. Be proud of it!
Do you follow any of these commandments when you travel? Do you have additional tips and tricks to share? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments; I’d love to hear from you!
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