5 of the Best Sustainable Travel Tips for Staying Green on the Go

It’s important to consider the many ways in which you can incorporate eco-friendly lifestyles, green alternatives, and environmentally responsible consumption into your vacation itinerary. We compiled a list of simple and straightforward sustainable travel tips that can help reduce your carbon footprint and encourage environmentally friendly practices! When it comes to traveling, where you go, how you get there, and what you do or bring all matter. Read on to learn more. Then, be sure to join our newsletter to keep up with the trending travel-related topics and more! 

Why Is Sustainable Travel Important?

Sustainable travel is not necessarily a trend, but more of an evolving concept as tourism continues to evolve. To see more of the world and leave more of the earth to be seen by future generations, we must respect the environment and cultural authenticity, as well as local traditions and economies. There are a number of ways in which you can take all of these things into account on your next vacation!

5 Sustainable Travel Tips for an Eco-Friendly Vacation

1. Opt for Environment-Friendly Tours

When visiting somewhere new, a little research can go a long way. Take the time to look into the different tour companies and choose a local one! National Geographic suggests asking the following questions: 

1. What are some of your tour company’s environmentally friendly practices? 
2. Can you give me an example of how your trips help to protect and support wildlife or cultural heritage?
3. Do you employ local guides on your trips?

2. Support Local Businesses 

The New York Times acknowledges that sustainable travel is not just about the environment. It’s about the people and the communities as well. Do your best to support local economies by shopping at local boutiques, eating at local restaurants, and staying in independently owned lodging. Not only will you receive a more authentic and unique experience or product, you are also ensuring that the money you’re spending on vacation is going to directly support the local economy.

3. Avoid Plastic 

As someone who is concerned about your own environmental responsibility, foregoing plastic might be something you already practice. Do your best to avoid plastic bottles and bags while you’re traveling as well! 

4. Choose Your Method of Travel Wisely 

It’s not just about where you go or what you do when you get there. The way in which you get to where you’re going matters as well! There is a new trend that involves going to fewer places but staying there longer. It helps you to truly experience a new place but it also decreases your carbon footprint. If you’re not in a hurry, opt for a slower travel option such as train travel or even driving before taking a plane. 

Sustainably Select: Many Select Registry properties have electric car charging stations!

5. Stay Select 

One last sustainable travel tip to consider is staying in independently owned lodging to further support local business owners! Select Registry properties range from Victorian B&Bs and cozy inns to luxurious cabins and boutique hotels. Many of our properties serve farm-to-table meals featuring locally sourced ingredients. Others grow their own fruits and vegetables or boast beautiful gardens that cater to seasonal wildlife. Some offer eco-friendly toiletries and amenities. Each property aims to offer a sustainable approach to hospitality!

View All Properties

Inn at Black Star Farms

Suttons Bay, MI 

Experience the beauty of Northern Michigan at the Inn at Black Star Farms, a unique 160-acre winery destination that features an inn, vineyards, equestrian facility, winery, and tasting room. Their commitment to sustainability includes ensuring their farmstead, cropping, livestock, and forestry standards meet the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program. They use LED lighting, high-efficiency heating systems, low-energy pumps, and photovoltaic electricity production. They aim to be as environmentally and socially responsible in all of their operations. 

Inn at Black Star