My Journey to Greener Travels
Alright, so folks are always yapping about ‘eco-travel’ and ‘sustainable tourism’ these days. For a long time, I just nodded along, you know? Didn’t really think too hard about my own habits. I’d just pack my bags, grab whatever was convenient, and off I went. My main goal was just to see new places, have fun. Didn’t really connect the dots, if you catch my drift.
Then, I took this trip a few years back. Won’t name the place, but it was supposed to be this pristine beach paradise. And yeah, parts of it were stunning. But then you’d walk a bit further, and man, the plastic. Bottles, bags, bits of Styrofoam, all washed up. And it hit me – I was part of that problem. Every plastic water bottle I bought, every takeaway container I used, every little hotel soap I unwrapped… it all adds up, doesn’t it?
Came back from that trip feeling a bit grim, to be honest. Decided I had to at least try to do things a bit differently. It wasn’t like a sudden magical transformation, more like small steps, figuring things out as I went.
What I Started Doing Differently
So, the first thing I tackled was the water bottle situation. Seriously, ditching single-use plastic bottles was a game changer. I just got myself a decent reusable one. Fill it up at the hotel, at fountains if they’re safe, or I even bought a filter bottle for places where the tap water’s a bit dodgy. It’s easy, saves money too in the long run.
Then I started thinking about all those plastic bags. You know how shops just hand them out for everything?
- I got a couple of those lightweight, foldable tote bags.
- Just keep one in my daypack.
- Now I just say ‘no thanks’ to the plastic bag. Simple, right?
Next up were those tiny hotel toiletries. Shampoo, conditioner, body wash… all in those little plastic bottles. Such a waste! So, I started:
- Bringing my own solid shampoo bar and soap. Lasts ages, no plastic.
- Or I’d use refillable travel-sized containers for my liquids.
Less plastic, and honestly, my hair likes my own stuff better anyway.
Transportation was another big one. I used to be lazy, just jump in a taxi or rent a car without thinking. Now, I actually look into public transport. Buses, trains… it’s often cheaper and you get more of a local feel. And walking! I try to walk as much as I can. You see so much more of a place on foot, stumble across little hidden gems.
When it comes to where I stay, I’ve started to at least look for places that seem to care a bit more. Maybe they mention recycling, or water conservation, or supporting local communities. Not always easy to find, and I don’t always get it right, but I try.
Oh, and packing! I used to overpack like crazy. Now, I really try to be more mindful. Lighter bags mean less fuel used by planes and buses. Plus, it’s just easier to get around. Do I really need five pairs of shoes? Probably not.
It’s not about being perfect, you know? I’m still learning. But these little changes, they add up. And it feels good to know I’m at least trying to tread a bit lighter. It’s more about being aware, making conscious choices where I can. It’s a journey, not a destination, as they say. And every little bit helps keep those beautiful places beautiful for a bit longer.
