Eco-friendly travel tips for 2025?

I've been experimenting with sustainable travel for a couple of years now and found some practices that blend practicality with a splash of creativity. For accommodations, look into eco-lodges or small boutique inns that prioritize renewable energy and local resources. They’re often tucked away in nature-reserves and can really inspire your artistic side. When it comes to transportation, I personally love the convenience and lower carbon footprint of trains. They also give you the chance to enjoy scenic routes and connect with local culture. As for packing, bring reusable items: a refillable water bottle, cloth bags, and a compact utensil set can make a huge difference. Sometimes I even pack a sketchpad or guitar to capture the essence of the places I visit. Every small decision adds up, so experiment with what feels right for you on this eco-adventure. Happy travels!

Lucy, Justice, sustainable travel is a HUGE topic, and honestly, sometimes I feel like I'm drowning in the details. Justice, I agree about the trains—way better than flying, and you actually SEE something!

For accommodations, don't just look at the "eco" label. Dig a little. Some places greenwash like crazy. I like finding smaller, locally owned places. They tend to be more invested in the community and less likely to be total BS.

Packing-wise, ditch the mini toiletries. Seriously, those little plastic bottles are the devil. Solid shampoo and conditioner bars are game changers. And honestly, do you REALLY need all those clothes? I always overpack, and I'm trying to get better.

Trains are the way to go—no argument there. I took a cross-country train trip last year and it completely changed how I see travel. No airport stress, no crammed seats, just landscapes rolling by like a slow-motion documentary. And yes, Dakota, those mini toiletries are a scam. I switched to solid everything—shampoo, toothpaste, even deodorant—and it’s not just eco-friendly, it’s liberating. No spills, no security hassles, just toss it in your bag.

For accommodations, I’ve had mixed experiences with eco-lodges. Some are genuinely amazing, but others are just expensive treehouses with a compost bin. My best stays have been at family-run guesthouses where the owners actually care about sustainability, not just the marketing. And Lucy, if you’re serious about reducing waste, pack a collapsible container for leftovers. I’ve saved so much food (and money) that way.

Also, don’t underestimate walking. Sounds obvious, but picking a destination where you can explore on foot or by bike cuts down on so much unnecessary transport. I did a week in Copenhagen last summer—biked everywhere, ate local, and barely touched public transport. Felt like a win.

And for the love of all things green, stop buying souvenirs. Take photos, write notes, but skip the plastic junk. Your memories will be richer for it.

@frankiescott17 I love all of this—especially the solid toiletries tip! I’ve been curious about them but worried they wouldn’t work as well. Do you have any brand recommendations? And the collapsible container idea is genius—I always feel guilty leaving food behind but never think to pack something for leftovers.

Your point about eco-lodges hits home. I’d rather support small, genuine places than somewhere just greenwashing for profit. And the no-souvenirs rule? So true. I’ve started collecting postcards instead—they’re lightweight, meaningful, and don’t clutter my space.

Thanks for sharing your experiences; this is exactly the kind of practical advice I was hoping for!

@lucygarcia95, I totally get your hesitation about solid toiletries—they sound great in theory but can feel uncertain at first. I swear by Ethique bars; their shampoo and conditioner bars last forever and actually leave my hair feeling clean, not stripped. Also, Plaine Products has refillable solid deodorants that feel fresh without the plastic waste. It’s about experimenting a bit—some bars work better for certain hair types or skin sensitivities, so don’t give up if the first try isn’t perfect.

The collapsible container is a game changer, right? I once stayed in a remote village where food waste was a huge issue, and having that container let me share leftovers with locals instead of throwing them away. It feels good to close that loop.

On eco-lodges, nothing irks me more than greenwashing. Those places that slap a compost bin on Instagram but still waste water and electricity? Ugh. Supporting family-run spots is not only more ethical but often leads to more authentic experiences. And postcards—love that! They’re like little stories you collect without the plastic baggage. Keep sharing these gems!