live your best life, without it costing the earth

We all have a common objective: to travel more while minimizing our impact on the environment. With so much information (and misinformation) out there about sustainability, it can be overwhelming to know how to be more eco-friendly, especially when you’re on the go. That’s why we’ve compiled a checklist for sustainable travelers to help you live your best life without harming the planet. Check out the top tips in our sustainable traveler’s guide.

1. Transportation Choices

Opt for shared transportation options in new countries instead of renting a car or campervan. Bus and train travel are among the most environmentally friendly ways to get around, plus you get to meet other like-minded travelers and have a great time (we recommend an amazing flexible travel company that takes you off the beaten path in New Zealand).

2. Fly Responsibly

While you may need to take a flight to reach New Zealand, try to avoid booking domestic or onward flights for the rest of your trip. A bus tour not only offers a fun experience where you can meet like-minded people and form lifelong friendships, but it’s also one of the most sustainable ways to travel.

According to Our World in Data, bus or coach travel produces less than half the greenhouse gases per person per kilometer compared to a domestic flight, and 70-90% less than travel by diesel or petrol cars, respectively.

3. Be Prepared

Bring a reusable shopping bag, water bottle, and coffee cup from home. If you forget any of these items, you can purchase them at your travel destination – they also make great souvenirs. In New Zealand, tap water is safe to drink, so having a reusable bottle is a smart investment. Every little effort contributes to sustainable tourism.

4. BYO Cutlery

Carry your own set of bamboo or steel cutlery – it will quickly become an essential item in your backpack. You can even opt for an “old school” spork, which takes up less space in your day pack. Whether you’re grabbing a salad on-the-go or enjoying leftover pasta, having your own fork is not only sustainable but also convenient!

5. Say No to Straws

Refuse straws and other single-use plastics whenever possible. While an icy margarita may be tempting after a long day of travel, consider the environmental impact of a straw ending up in the ocean.

6. Protect Yourself from the Sun

New research indicates that many sunscreens are harmful to coral reefs. Check out this Greenpeace blog to learn about the negative impact of sunscreen on marine life and discover ways to minimize reef damage and marine pollution. Opt for natural sunscreens with easily understandable ingredients, cover up, and seek shade. Wide-brim hats and Hawaiian shirts are not only trendy but also eco-friendly!

7. Embrace Paperless Options

Whenever possible, opt for digital alternatives like scanning barcodes on your phone or using apps instead of printed materials. When you travel with Stray, our buses are paper-free!

8. Understand Recycling and Waste Systems

Learn about the recycling and waste disposal practices at your destination so you can properly dispose of your waste. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask. You can even earn extra points by helping others figure out how to properly dispose of their trash.

9. Stay on Designated Trails

While exploring nature, particularly when hiking, it’s essential to stick to designated trails. In places like New Zealand, straying off the trail not only poses a risk of getting lost but also threatens fragile ecosystems and can spread diseases like Kauri dieback.

Kauri dieback, prevalent in the upper North Island, is caused by soil-borne organisms that infect Kauri tree roots, hindering their ability to absorb water and nutrients. There is no cure for infected Kauri trees, making it crucial to stay on marked trails and clean soil off your shoes before entering areas with native trees.

10. Take 3 for the Sea

Instead of just taking photos and leaving footprints, challenge yourself to spend 3 minutes collecting trash at the beach. See how much litter you can gather and turn it into a fun activity with friends – you could even have a prize for the most trash collected.

11. Use Energy Wisely

Practice energy conservation by taking shorter showers, turning off lights when not in use, and avoiding leaving heating or air conditioning running unnecessarily. Remember what your Dad used to nag about!

12. Opt for Takeaway Tips

Reduce food waste and use a life hack by bringing your own container when ordering takeout from a café or restaurant. Your container will be more durable and reliable than the disposable ones provided. If you can’t finish your meal, save the leftovers in your container for later. It’s a win-win!

13. Choose Sustainable Toiletries

Bring your favorite shampoo or body wash from home in refillable containers to avoid using unfamiliar products while abroad. Consider switching to shampoo bars and other toiletry bars to reduce plastic waste. When purchasing toiletries, check the ingredients list for microbeads, and opt for products without these harmful additives.

14. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Embracing local food, culture, and lifestyle choices naturally reduces your environmental impact. Whether you’re learning about Maori culture with a local family or participating in pest control efforts in New Zealand, incorporating sustainability into your adventures can enrich your experience. Often, these aspects are the highlights of the journey.

Wherever your travels take you, remember to prioritize sustainability. Making eco-friendly choices is often a matter of following your instincts and using common sense. On a Stray bus, our Driver Guides are committed to promoting sustainable practices and can assist you in making environmentally conscious decisions on the road. Explore our current tours and share your top tips for sustainable travel in the comments below. Let’s support each other in becoming more environmentally friendly travelers!