Alright, so 2023 kicked off and I found myself really thinking, and I mean really thinking, about how I was moving around the planet. It wasn’t one big “aha!” moment, more like a slow burn. I’d see pictures, read bits here and there, and just felt a bit… icky about my usual travel habits. It was time to actually do something, not just feel vaguely guilty.
My First Awkward Steps
So, the first thing I did was look at my own travel kit. Honestly, it was a festival of tiny plastic. I started super small. I went out and bought a decent reusable water bottle. Sounds basic, I know, but the real challenge was remembering to fill it and then actually use it instead of grabbing a plastic one at the airport out of habit. That took a few tries, let me tell you.
Then I tackled my toiletries. Those little hotel bottles? Yeah, I was a collector. Bad, I know. So, I invested in some solid shampoo bars, a conditioner bar, and even those little toothpaste tabs. It felt a bit weird at first, like camping, but honestly, it’s so much better. No leaks, less plastic, and they last ages. I also found a good reusable travel cutlery set. It lives in my bag now.
Packing Like I Mean It
Next up was my packing. I used to be a chronic over-packer. “Just in case” was my motto. For 2023, I really forced myself to be ruthless. I’d lay everything out on my bed and really question each item. Do I really need three pairs of black trousers? Probably not.
- I started making lists and sticking to them.
- I chose versatile clothes that could be mixed and matched.
- I learned to love layers instead of bulky single items.
Less stuff means a lighter bag, which, you know, supposedly means less fuel used on planes. Plus, it’s just easier to carry around. A win-win I discovered.
Moving Smarter (Trying To, Anyway)
Transportation was a big one I grappled with. I love the convenience of flying, who doesn’t? But for shorter trips, I made a conscious effort to look into trains. Yeah, it often takes longer, but I found I could get work done, or just enjoy the view. It felt more… connected to the journey, if that makes sense. I actually booked a train for a trip I would have previously flown for, and it was surprisingly pleasant.
I also started looking into carbon offsetting for flights I absolutely had to take. It’s not a perfect solution, I get that, but I figured it’s better than doing nothing. I researched a few different schemes and picked one that felt transparent.
Where I Rest My Head
When it came to booking accommodation, I began paying more attention to what hotels were saying about their eco-efforts. It’s not always front and center, sometimes you have to dig a bit.
- I looked for places that mentioned recycling programs.
- I checked if they sourced food locally.
- I even emailed a couple of smaller guesthouses to ask about their practices before booking. Felt a bit like an eco-detective, but it was worth it.
It’s surprising what you find when you actually look.
On the Ground Habits
Once I was actually at my destination, I tried to keep the momentum going. Simple things, really.
- Turning off lights and AC when I left the room.
- Reusing towels for a few days – I do it at home, why not in a hotel?
- Saying no to plastic bags in shops, using my own tote.
- Choosing local restaurants over big international chains. Supports the local economy and often means fresher food.
- And of course, using that reusable water bottle religiously!
I also made an effort to walk more or use public transport instead of defaulting to taxis for short distances. Good for me, good for the planet, right?
Was It All Smooth Sailing?
Absolutely not. There were times I forgot my reusable coffee cup and had to get a disposable one. Times when the only food option available came in loads of plastic. Or when I was just too tired to walk and took a cab. I’m not perfect, and I don’t think anyone expects that. For me, it’s about making a consistent effort and being more mindful. It’s a process, and I’m still learning and adapting.
Honestly, making these changes in 2023 has been a bit of an adjustment, but a good one. I feel like I’m travelling a bit more intentionally. It’s not about sacrificing the joy of travel, but about finding ways to do it more responsibly. And you know what? It actually feels pretty good. Still got loads to learn and improve on, but it’s a start.
