According to the UN World Tourism Organisation, sustainable travel can be defined as ‘travel that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.

Aimee shares her top tips for sustainable travel as she embarks on her TTG sustainable heroes ambassador role for 2025.

Buy local

Support the local economy and reduce your environmental footprint by purchasing gifts, souvenirs, and food from local markets, artisans, and independent shops. Not only will you find more authentic and meaningful items, but you’ll also be helping to sustain local livelihoods and traditions.

Pack well

Before you travel, remove excess packaging from your toiletries and other products, and recycle it at home. Consider decanting shampoo, conditioner, and sunscreen into reusable travel-sized containers for a more eco-friendly approach. When choosing sun protection, look for reef-safe products that use physical UVA and UVB filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are less harmful to marine life. Remember to bring along your Murray Travel reusable water bottle and tote bag for daily outings and shopping trips. These small items can make a big difference by helping reduce single-use plastics and unnecessary waste. They’re practical, eco-friendly, and a great way to travel responsibly. 

Use local transport

Instead of relying on taxis or ride-share apps, consider using buses, trains, or trams to get around. Public transportation is often more cost-effective, allows you to experience the destination more like a local, and significantly reduces your carbon footprint. Plus, it can lead to unexpected adventures and discoveries along the way.

Animal welfare

Please avoid attractions or experiences where animals are kept in poor conditions or forced to behave unnaturally. Many such venues are unregulated and exploit animals for profit. If you're interested in seeing wildlife, choose ethical, conservation-based tours or sanctuaries that prioritize the well-being of the animals and their natural behaviours.

Ask us

We understand that navigating sustainable travel choices can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Our team can guide you toward ethical experiences and partners with recognised sustainability certifications, making it easier for you to travel with peace of mind.

Child welfare

Think carefully about any activities that involve children, such as school visits or orphanage tours. While often well-intentioned, these experiences can disrupt children's education and daily lives. It’s important to ensure any engagement with children is respectful, ethical, and does not commercialise their situation.

Choosing your hotel

Make a more sustainable accommodation choice by booking a property with the Travelife for Accommodation certification. This internationally recognised scheme ensures that hotels meet strict environmental and social criteria. Look for the Travelife logo when booking, and rest easy knowing you're supporting responsible tourism.

Hotel buffet etiquette

It’s easy to get carried away at a buffet, but taking only what you know you'll eat helps reduce food waste significantly. Remember, you can go back as many times as you like, so there’s no need to overload your plate in one go!

Save water

In many parts of the world, water is a precious resource. Be mindful of your usage by reusing towels and linens rather than requesting daily replacements. A small act like this can help conserve water and reduce the energy used in laundering, just as you would at home.

For more information on how to travel more sustainably, please don't hesitate to contact Aimee at:- 
aimee@murraytravel.co.uk or 01309 250515