A lot of us are lucky to have the privilege to travel and open our eyes to amazing places all around the world! Though, when we travel, we must be proactive in leaving these destinations in better condition than we found them. If this is something that has crossed your mind you may have been wondering how you can become a conscious traveller. I want to share with you four ways to travel more consciously.
Here are a few ways to travel more consciously:
Spend Locally
Spend at locally-owned businesses. Rather than a chain hotel owned by a foreign company, stay at a family-owned BnB or local lodge where you know your money is going back to the community. Eat at family-run restaurants and buy your groceries from local farmer’s markets. Don’t get hypnotized by those golden arches! Investing your money in the local economy allows more businesses to flourish, meaning more employment opportunities!
Be An Eco-Warrior
We can do a lot before we depart for our trip to make sure we have a minimal environmental impact on our destination. Pack reusable bags so you can say no to single-use plastic bags. Bring eco-friendly toiletries, like reef-safe sunscreen for example.
When you arrive, get to know the place by walking around! There is nothing better to immerse yourself in a new destination than taking a stroll and observing all the awesome details that you miss in a car. When you need to travel further distances, utilize public transport, or see if there are electric cars available.
Research Activities Involving Animals Before Participating
Around the world, animals are exploited so tourists can ride, take photos, or see them on display. If an activity you want to do involves an animal, research the activity before going. Elephants are beaten and their spirits are broken to get them in a state where tourists can ride them. Don’t unknowingly find yourself supporting such horrendous practices.
Utilize The Spare Space In Your Luggage
You can make a big impact on communities around the world by using the spare space in your luggage. Pack For A Purpose is a company that helps travelers provide supplies to communities in their destinations. For example, for 5 pounds (2.27 kg), you could bring 400 pencils, 5 deflated footballs with an inflation device, a stethoscope, a blood pressure cuff, and 500 band-aids or pet supplies.
GUEST CONTRIBUTOR: In 2016, Sam Bentley launched UNILAD Adventure, which within 2 years, had over 6 million fans, was the most-viewed travel channel on social media receiving over 100 million video views a month, and won the Digiday Award for the Best New Brand in Europe. It is through growing UNILAD Adventure that he discovered his passion for travel, and how to use travel content to create a greater appreciation for nature, wildlife, and cultures around the world. Now, he is continuing to pioneer social video content, while creating content about sustainable travel and conscious living to help others achieve their goals.
