Sometimes it feels like you have to be super rich to make ethical choices. The more energy efficient products are, the more expensive they are to purchase. Electric cars (and their chargers) still cost a bomb. Tariffs from green energy companies are higher because fewer people sign up.
But when it comes to travel, sustainability doesn’t have to be expensive. From transportation to accommodation, excursions to meals, greener options can be cheaper than carbon-heavy ones, and your reward will be richer experiences. Not convinced? You will be.
1. Rethink flying
Trains are a much greener option than budget airlines (a single flight to Paris is the carbon equivalent of 14 Eurostar journeys), but how can we reduce the high cost? For the best deals, travel midweek, avoid peak hours (after 9am) and book in advance. Signing up to the Eurostar app also gives you access to special offers. Interrail tickets allow multiple journeys in 33 countries and start from £171. Buses are even cheaper; Flixbus travels within and between 24 European countries from £2.99. Brave types can even hitch a ride on a cargo ship using a specialist agency like Ship’N’Train.
2. Choose simpler, local accommodation
Home stays and home exchanges have less impact than chain resorts and provide a more authentic, local experience. If you’re in a city, consider hostels (A&O Hostels is committed to low-budget, low-impact options – about 75% cheaper than a two- to three-star hotel). Also check out modern, independent hotels that advocate energy efficiency.
3. Choose a goal where your bankroll will go further in every way
Although sterling has lost some of its influence, there are still countries where it holds its own and is gratefully received. The pound is expanding a lot in Turkey, which has been experiencing a shortage of tourists since the earthquake in February, and local people will benefit from this incoming money. Looking for a sustainable diving holiday? Try corn. Tourism here generally accounts for around 12-15 percent of GDP, and the country has struggled since civil unrest 10 years ago. Thailand is putting the environment ahead of tourism by closing popular beaches such as Maya Bay to allow flora and fauna to regenerate.
4. Weigh the emissions of your trips
It’s easy to focus on international flights and forget the impact trips can have. Cars and 4x4s emit a lot of greenhouse gases. Cost-saving solution? Walk, bike, row, e-bus and e-boat. To find the best routes for walking and cycling, check out apps like Komoot or Go Jauntly, which have information on train stations, toilet stops and bike docks. By going slower, you’ll meet more locals, see more sights, observe more wildlife, and of course, keep more money in your pocket.
5. Avoid “Instagrammable” places
Overcrowding, landscape erosion, pollution and money are squeezed into one place in destinations made famous by influencers. Explore quieter attractions at a fraction of the cost by asking locals, consulting goaskalocal.com or using a good old-fashioned guide. On Skye, for example, skip the Fairy Pools and head to Allt Daraich Falls instead; Snub Iceland’s Blue Lagoon (£85 per person) and hike to the free Landmannalaugar geothermal pools. Or forego the Inca Trail in Peru for the Choquequirao Trek; you’ll still be walking into a lost village, but this one is wilder, cheaper (both the entrance fee and surrounding services) and churns out foot traffic and precious tourist dollars.
6. Be informed when choosing your country
It can be difficult to spot places that strive for sustainability versus those that are just greenwashing, so do some research. This can be fascinating, and can lead to cheaper, greener destinations like Slovenia (with its own Green Plan to help you find the most sustainable accommodation, activities and food) and Estonia, which protects and celebrates its carbon-capturing marshes. Some even offer free camping.
7. Consider where your money goes
Dig a little deeper and you’ll find great value companies like Intrepid and G Adventures that develop long-term relationships with the communities they work in. In reality, Like a Local, Urban Adventures and Unseen Tours offer budget trips while your money goes into the pockets of those who make real change. Carry small bills so your tips are delivered directly to those in need.
8. Pack responsibly
Most airlines offer better fares without a carry-on bag, and less luggage means a lighter aircraft, which equals fewer aircraft emissions. Make sure you’re not contributing to a local problem with the items you pack, like buying sunscreen filled with chemicals that can harm marine life and coral. Bring your own reusable toiletry bottles.
9. Filter your own water
Save money when abroad by using a reusable bottle with a built-in filter and purifier instead of single-use plastic water bottles. LifeStraw’s range of products protects against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, organic chemicals and dirt, meaning you can fill any space and keep plastic out of landfill. It’s also worth remembering that tap water is safe in many places, especially in Europe.
10. Think about where and most importantly what you eat
Avoiding chain restaurant meals will not only line locals’ pockets but also reduce your meal’s carbon footprint. Look for places where diners are not touristy, ask the hotel concierge (or a bus driver in my experience) for recommendations. Embrace new travel-oriented dishes prepared using inexpensive, homegrown ingredients. It’s worth remembering that some cuisines, especially vegetarian, are naturally both more climate-friendly and cheaper.
Watch this Saturday standard podcast To discover more ways your travels can be green and economical.