Eco-travel is all about experiencing the world responsibly while supporting sustainable tourism. But though this requires a little extra planning and preparation, it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Here, we share some practical tips to help you enjoy a budget-friendly eco-travel experience, wherever you have your sights set.

This is a guest post contributed by Compare the Market.

1. Choose public transport and eco-friendly accommodation

Traveling closer to home is a common tip when it comes to having a more eco-friendly vacation, as it not only reduces your carbon footprint but also saves on airfare and transportation costs. However, with so many amazing corners of the world to discover, it’s understandable if you want to venture further afield.

Luckily, there are ways to have greener breaks even if you do need to fly overseas. Make use of the local public transit system or explore cities on foot or by bike instead of renting a car—which not only saves money but also allows you to experience your destination more authentically. To save splashing out on expensive attractions, explore national parks, nearby beaches, or eco-retreats in your region that are committed to sustainability.

For a place to rest your head, look for eco-friendly accommodations like hostels, eco-lodges, or Airbnb options that adhere to green practices. These are often more affordable than luxury hotels and prioritize energy efficiency, waste reduction, and local community support.

2. Travel during off-peak seasons

Traveling during off-peak seasons not only gives you better prices on accommodation and activities, but it also means fewer crowds. This approach is better for the environment as it alleviates strain on resources in high-tourism areas. In many destinations, the weather is still enjoyable and there is more opportunity to explore popular landmarks without the hassle of navigating crowds of other tourists.

Being open to last-minute deals, or flexible with your travel dates, can help you score eco-friendly accommodation and transport at a lower cost. Searching for family-run hotels or bed and breakfasts outside of the main city can also result in significant savings—use apps and websites that focus on budget-friendly tourism to find the best options for you.

3. Pack light

Packing light not only helps you avoid baggage fees but also lowers the weight of transportation, reducing emissions if you’re flying. Invest in reusable essentials like water bottles, utensils, and eco-friendly toiletries, so you save money and reduce waste during your trip.

However, as the popularity of green tourism rises, so does the market for products and gadgets claiming to be eco-friendly and essential for your trip. While some of these are truly useful, be careful not to get swept away in thinking you need to replace everything you own with sustainable alternatives—using what you already have is more eco-friendly than buying lots of new products, clothes, or accessories.

Consider the weather of your destination, what activities you’re likely to be doing, and how easy it will be for you to access laundry services when packing your suitcase. Keep it light—after all, does it really matter if you wear the same clothes twice?

4. Eat smart

You can save on meals and souvenirs by choosing local eateries, market stalls, and artisan products over high-end restaurants and imported items. Supporting small, local businesses also helps sustain the local economy and culture, so it’s a win-win for both the planet and your purse. 

When it comes to food, buying prepared food at every stop can quickly add up. Bring your own snacks for the road, or opt for accommodation with kitchen facilities to prepare some of your meals and benefit from the local, seasonal flavours of your destination.

Have fun planning your eco-break

By combining your eco-friendly values with your budgeting strategy, you can plan a memorable eco-travel experience that’ll allow you to discover new horizons with a minimal environmental impact.