Sustainable traveling (sometimes, eco-holidays) is becoming popular, as people are becoming more aware of the importance of preserving our planet. But the question remains: is sustainable traveling affordable? In this blog post, we will explore the cost of sustainable travel and whether or not it is within reach of most travelers. We will also look at some tips for making sustainable travel more affordable. So if you’re interested in learning more, keep reading!
What Is Sustainable Travel?
Before we dive into the cost of sustainable travel, let’s first take a step back and define what we mean by “sustainable travel.”
Sustainable travel is simply tourism that minimizes negative impacts on the environment and local communities. It can include reducing your carbon footprint, using public transportation, staying in eco-friendly accommodations, eating locally-sourced food, etc.
Sustainable travel is often seen as a more “responsible” way to travel, and it’s certainly gaining in popularity as awareness about climate change, and other environmental issues grow.
How Much Does It Cost?
Now that we know what sustainable travel is, let’s talk about how much it costs. The short answer is: it depends. The cost of an eco-holiday will vary depending on your destination, mode of transportation, accommodation choices, and more. However, there are some general trends that we can observe when it comes to the cost of sustainable travel.
For example, one study found that eco-friendly hotels tended to be more expensive than traditional hotels. However, the study also found that the price difference was typically only about $20 per night. So while sustainable accommodations may cost a bit more upfront, they can end up being more affordable in the long run.
Another essential factor to consider is transportation. Sustainable transportation options like trains and buses tend to be cheaper than flying, and they also have a lower carbon footprint. So if you’re looking to save money and be more sustainable, consider taking the train or bus instead of flying.
Tips For Making Sustainable Travel More Affordable
If you’re interested in sustainable travel but worried about the cost, there are some things you can do to make it more affordable. Here are a few tips:
- Travel during the off-season: You can often find cheaper flights and accommodations if you travel during the shoulder or off-season.
- Look for deals and discounts: There are always deals to be found if you know where to look. Check out websites like Groupon and LivingSocial for discounts on hotels, activities, and more.
- Do your research: A little bit of planning can go a long way.
- Research sustainable transportation options and accommodations in advance to make the most affordable choices possible.
Benefits Of Sustainable Travel
Eco-holidays are not only more affordable than you might think, but they also have several other advantages:
- Local travel can help to generate local jobs and support the economy
- It can also help to preserve natural resources and reduce pollution
- Sustainable travel is also a great way to connect with local communities and learn about new cultures
- Travelers can slow down and appreciate their surroundings
- It prevents environmental deterioration for future generations
- Wildlife can flourish in their natural habitat
- Sustainable travel shares knowledge about protecting the environment and preserving cultures
Best Ways To Reduce Environmental Impact While Traveling
Now that we know all about the cost of sustainable travel let’s look at some of the best ways to reduce your environmental impact while traveling. Here are a few tips:
- Choose eco-friendly transportation options: As we mentioned before, trains and buses tend to be more sustainable than flying. Consider renting a hybrid or electric car if you’re taking a road trip
- Stay in eco-friendly accommodations: Look for hotels with green certifications, use energy-efficient lighting, and offer sustainable amenities
- Eat locally-sourced food: One of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to eat locally-sourced food. You will be supporting local farmers, but you’ll also be eating fresher and healthier food
- Offset your carbon footprint: You can cancel by purchasing carbon offsets. That is a great way to reduce your impact if you take a long flight or drive a long distance
Final thoughts
As you can see, your next eco-holiday doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of ways to make it more affordable, and it comes with many benefits. So next time you’re planning a trip, keep sustainability in mind! It may just be the best decision you ever make.
If you need some extra advice on planning your next trip, check out the sustainable travel guide our friend Stephanie Zito wrote, it’s definitely worth reading!
What are your thoughts on sustainable travel? Have you ever tried it?
Let us know in the comments below!
