While it is relatively easy to follow sustainable practices while at home, once you go on holidays it becomes more difficult because so many holiday resources are geared towards the short term and the throwaway. To mention just a few, there are throwaway cameras, one use shampoo – meaning more packaging – and all those takeaway mugs and sandwich containers for the traveller who is passing through.

So if you are interested in remaining eco friendly while on holidays you may have to work a little harder at it. But at the same time you’ll enjoy yourself more in many ways. So here are some tips for sustainability while on holidays that are not too difficult to implement and may even save you costs.

  • If you are going by air, remember those carbon emissions that can be offset. Most airlines provide the option.

  • Avoid disposable napkins and tissues by taking your own cloth ones.
  • Go easy on the souvenirs. A photo costs nothing and can be framed, added to a mug or t-shirt and truly reflects where you have been.
  • Look for eco-friendly accommodation. This is becoming much more popular and widespread than it used to be.
  • Hang your towels on the towel rack, otherwise the staff with take them away to be washed. A towel should last at least a week; remember it wipes a clean body, not a dirty one.
  • There is usually no need to have outer clothing washed after each wear. Jeans can be worn for at least a week before washing.
  • Use public transport where possible to save on the cost and use of fuel.
  • Take your own mug, shampoo and condition, soap and water bottle. This saves using the single serve wrapped in plastic items available in hotel rooms.
  • Don’t drop your rubbish on the ground, but look for a bin or take it back to the hotel bin. Many tourist spots have been ruined by the rubbish that is dropped there.
  • Try to avoid takeaway meals with all the packaging it needs. It is far nicer to sit in a restaurant and rest while you eat and drink from proper crockery and use cutlery that is not made of plastic. You can also avoid using plastic straws.
  • If you purchase clothing, make sure it is something you’ll get a lot of use from. There is no point impulse buying a beautiful garment in a traditional style unless you will wear it when you get back home.
  • Find out what quantities are served before ordering. In the US, each serving is huge and unless you can eat it all you are paying for food just to throw it away.