It was one of those evenings you don’t forget, the sky melting into shades of pink and gold, a quiet breeze drifting in off Lake Tahoe, and me sitting alone on a weathered log at the edge of the water. Everything felt still and perfect, like the world had hit pause. But then I noticed something that pulled me out of that calm: plastic wrappers and soda cans scattered in the sand. It broke the spell.
That moment stayed with me. It was a reminder that beauty isn’t just something we experience, it’s something we help protect. And so began my journey into more mindful, eco-conscious travel. As someone who travels solo often, I’ve picked up a few habits and lessons that have helped me explore with less waste and more purpose. Here’s what I’ve learned.
1. Getting Around Without a Car
One of the easiest ways to reduce your impact is to skip the rental car. In cities like Portland, Oregon, I’ve rented a bike or hopped on public transportation instead. Biking through the neighborhoods opened up parts of the city I never would’ve noticed from a car. I found murals on side streets, hidden cafés, and parks full of locals living their lives. It felt more real, more grounded.
If biking’s not your thing, try walking when you can or take the bus. You’ll see more, spend less, and leave a lighter mark.
2. Stay Somewhere That Cares
Not all accommodations are created equal. I started seeking out places that actually put effort into sustainability. That might mean a locally owned guesthouse, an eco-lodge, or even a campsite with a solid leave-no-trace policy. One spot in Asheville, North Carolina, stood out. The couple who ran it used solar panels, composted food waste, and made their own soap. They didn’t just talk about being green, they lived it.
Before you book, check for green certifications or read reviews to see if the place walks the walk.
3. Eat Local and Seasonal
Food is one of the best parts of traveling, and it can also be one of the most sustainable, if you know where to look. In Santa Fe, I ate at a small farm-to-table spot that sourced everything from within the state. The flavors were incredible, and I left feeling full in every sense. Local food supports small farms, cuts down on transport emissions, and often introduces you to ingredients you’ve never tried.
Visit farmers markets, ask where your food comes from, and when possible, choose places that care about the land behind the plate.
4. Pack With Intention
Traveling light isn’t just easier, it’s better for the planet. I’ve learned to pack less and pack smart. A few versatile clothing pieces, a reusable water bottle, a cloth shopping bag, and a small set of utensils go a long way. It’s freeing not to drag around a heavy suitcase, and even better knowing you’re not contributing to plastic waste every time you grab a snack or buy groceries.
That one trip where I fit everything into a single carry-on? Still one of my proudest packing moments.
5. Give Back While You Go
Some of my favorite travel memories have come from volunteering. In Zion National Park, I joined a local trail cleanup after seeing a flyer at the visitor center. It was just a few hours of work, but the sense of connection it gave me was huge. It’s easy to assume someone else will take care of the land, but when you pitch in, you become part of that care.
Look up local conservation groups, ask at ranger stations, or just bring a trash bag and pick up what you see along the way.
6. Be the Person Who Picks It Up
It sounds simple, but it matters. Bring a small trash bag with you. Clean up after yourself, and if you see something that doesn’t belong, pick it up. I’ve made a habit of doing this whether I’m hiking, at the beach, or just walking through a park. You don’t need to be perfect, but small actions add up fast.
Every piece of trash you carry out is a little thank-you to the place you just enjoyed.
A New Way to Explore
Travel doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. You can enjoy yourself and still make choices that reduce your footprint. In fact, I’ve found that traveling more sustainably has made my trips richer. I notice more, I meet people with shared values, and I feel more grounded in the places I visit.
If you’re planning your next adventure, whether it’s a cross-country road trip or a weekend escape, consider adding a little more intention to how you move through the world. Not out of guilt, but out of gratitude. This planet gives us so much beauty. The least we can do is leave it a little better than we found it.
