Why I Switched to Low-Impact Vacations
Last summer, I went to Bali for a week. Came back feeling totally exhausted and guilty seeing plastic bottles floating everywhere. Realized my vacations were becoming part of the problem.
The Wake-Up Call
Checked my flight history – six short trips in one year! Each round-trip pumped about 1.5 tons of CO₂ into the air just for me. That hit me like a brick.
My 3-Step Planning Method
Started by grabbing notebooks and pens instead of opening travel apps. Made three lists:
- Places accessible by train or bus within 4 hours
- Hotels with actual green certifications
- Activities needing only my two feet
Crossed off anything involving planes or cruise ships. Ended up with maybe 10% of my usual options.
Testing It Out Locally
Booked an old farmhouse just 90 minutes away by bus. Packed in one small backpack:
- Reusable water bottle
- Solar charger
- Second-hand hiking boots
The owner laughed when I showed up – smallest luggage she’d seen in years.
What Actually Happened
First morning there, met locals planting trees near the river. Joined them instead of hitting museums. Spent afternoons sketching birds instead of shopping. Ate at family-run spots using local veggies.
Funny thing? Didn’t buy a single souvenir. Just pressed wildflowers in my notebook.
The Surprises
Thought it’d feel like a downgrade but slept better outdoors than any luxury resort. Best moment was lying on a hill watching stars – light pollution was minimal there. Cost less than half my usual trips too.
Messing Up Anyway
Forgot that “eco-resort” didn’t mean they’d separate trash – found all recyclables dumped together behind kitchen. Had to politely explain why glass bottles shouldn’t mix with food scraps. Staff thought I was nuts.
Takeaways For Next Time
Learned I enjoy vacations more when I’m part of the place instead of just passing through. Already planning a canoe camping trip down the river this fall – no Instagram pics, just fishing for dinner.
Truth is it requires actual effort. But feels like breathing fresh air after being stuck in a smoky room.
