A Beginner’s Guide to Travel Sustainably

Travel season is officially on and we’re here to help you travel sustainably. With a few mindful choices, you can merrily explore the world, while treading the world lightly. 

1. Choose an Eco-Friendly Mode of Transport:

Opting for a mode of transport with a lower carbon footprint such as trains, buses and carpooling, are great alternatives to flying.

And if you do need to fly, consider booking direct flights and offsetting your carbon emissions through applications such as Climes.

When you reach your destination, explore the city by walking, cycling or using public transportation to minimise your impact while you travel. 

2. Select Sustainable Stays & Accommodation: 

When choosing where to stay, keep an eye out for accommodations that prioritise sustainability. Eco friendly hotels or hostels or even home stays use energy efficient appliances, reduce water consumption, employ rainwater harvesting practices, avoid single use plastics and consume local produce. 

We have a little role in making these accommodation spots more sustainable. Bare Necessities provides sustainable amenities in several eco-stays.

In the snow capped belt of Leh, Ladakh lies Dolkhar, which uses solar powered energy solutions and water conservation initiatives. 

Kaav is another gorgeous eco-stay at Kabini. We believe in coexisting with nature, which is why our amenities and practices are designed with minimal impact. From eco-friendly toiletries to waste reduction strategies, every aspect of Kaav is aligned with their commitment to conservation. You can check out our Bare Necessities books, play cards with our bare sustainability themed deck of cards and shop your travel necessities and reusables, just in case you forgot them! 

3. Pack a Zero Waste Travel Kit: 

One of the easiest ways to travel sustainably is by minimising single use plastics and therefore, carrying your own products. Here are a few must haves! 

• Reusable water bottle & Tote bags: To do away with all those pesky single use plastic bottles and plastic bags 
• Travel friendly toiletries: Opting for earth friendly products such as shampoo bars, solid deodorants, natural spa bars, moisturisers, lip balms in glass jars, ensure a water free experience 
• Reusable Cutlery Kit: Carrying your own reusable cutlery, can easily reduce plastic waste

4. Support Local & Sustainable Businesses: 

Travelling sustainably is also about supporting the local economy. Choose to support local artisans, restaurants, and shops that focus on organic and ethically sourced products. You would be reducing the carbon footprint associated with importing goods, but you would also be contributing directly to the community you are visiting. Research into the destination’s sustainability efforts. Are there any local conservation projects which you can contribute to? Small thoughts can make a huge difference  

5. Check Your Waste 

One of the easiest ways to reduce waste and impact is by being mindful of your waste. Each time you head out to explore, make sure to leave no trace behind. Carry a small bag to collect your trash and dispose responsibly or recycle, wherever possible 

Sustainable travel is all about making intentional choices that can reduce your environmental impact, all while exploring all that our beautiful world has to offer