Tips to enjoy a sustainable summer holiday
Summer holidays don’t have to come with a heavy footprint. They can be both restorative and kind to the planet. With a little intention and creativity, you can craft a summer getaway that’s as sustainable as it is soul-nourishing.

Tourism produces 8 % of total global greenhouse‑gas emissions, with flying accounting for 49% of those. Consider taking the train, coach, or even cycling to your destination, especially within the UK or mainland Europe. Not only are these options better for the environment, but they also let you watch the landscape unfold in real time. If you do fly, choose direct routes (take-off and landing are the most polluting parts of a flight).
Offsetting versus reducing emissions
Reducing emissions is always better than offsetting as it means you
prevent CO₂ from entering the atmosphere in the first place.
On the other hand, offsetting means you pay to compensate for your emissions by funding carbon-saving projects (like planting trees or renewable energy).
Offset projects might take years to absorb the promised CO₂. Besides, some offset programs
are not fully reliable or too hard to verify
Offsetting is slower, less guaranteed, and sometimes used to ease guilt without real change (greenwashing). However, if you decide to go for offsetting, make sure you choose a trusted scheme.

Choose eco-friendly stays
Look for eco-conscious accommodations like solar-powered cabins, certified eco-lodges, or off-grid shepherd’s huts. Many of these places prioritiSe sustainable building materials, water conservation, and local sourcing.
In the UK, platforms like Canopy & Stars, Sawday’s, or Green Tourism certified listings are great places to start. If you're camping, opt for sites that encourage leave-no-trace principles and avoid wild camping in protected areas.
Pack with purpose
Swap single-use travel kits for reusables like a bamboo toothbrush, refillable toiletry containers, a stainless-steel water bottle, and a tote for groceries or market trips. Bring a lunchbox or beeswax wraps for takeaway snacks which are especially helpful on long train rides or hikes.
The most sustainable item is the one you already own. Use what you have.
No need to buy anything new if what you have still works
When it comes to clothes, choose versatile, breathable outfits that you can re-wear and mix, rather than over-packing for just in case. The chances are that you will always need less than you think you need.
Eat & shop local
One of the most enjoyable parts of travel is discovering what grows, cooks, and lives locally. Visit farmers’ markets, buy handmade crafts, and dine at independent eateries that source from nearby producers. This supports the local economy and cuts down on supply chain emissions.
Better yet, pack a picnic from a local deli or cook simple meals if your accommodation allows. Fewer takeaways equal less packaging waste and a chance to slow down. It will also free you time waiting in busy restaurants that can be used to enjoy your favourite places.
Choose activities with low impact
Jet-skiing and helicopter rides might thrill but they burn a lot of fuel. Instead, try low CO2 emission activities like hiking, swimming, cycling or kayaking.
Visiting nature reserves or wildlife sanctuaries that promote conservation
is another great option with a low CO₂ footprint
A low-impact summer holiday is about presence, travelling with care, staying curious, and making choices that reflect a respect for the places we visit. And in doing so, we often find something deeper. A slower, more intentional kind of joy that will stay with us once we return to our normal routines.



