Travel connects us with the world but it can also leave a heavy footprint. From single-use plastics to excessive energy and water use, even a few nights in a hotel can have a lasting environmental impact.
Tourism contributes around 8% of global carbon emissions, and the hotel industry alone is responsible for roughly 1% of that total. That means the decisions we make as travellers, especially where we stay and how we behave once checked in, matter more than ever.
By adopting a few simple, eco-conscious habits, you can help reduce your footprint, support local communities, and encourage the hotel industry to adopt more sustainable practices.
Here are 13 actionable eco-friendly travel tips to help you make a positive difference every time you travel.
1. Treat Your Room Like Home
Be mindful of your energy and water use. Keep showers short, turn off the air-con and lights when not needed, and reuse towels and bed linens when possible.
2. Use the “Do Not Disturb” Sign
Avoid daily housekeeping unless you really need it. Skipping cleaning services reduces electricity use and prevents unnecessary laundering.
3. Take Advantage of Eco Incentives
Some hotels offer perks like free drinks or discounts for guests who opt out of room service or arrive via public transport. It’s a win for the planet and for you.
4. Refuse Single-Use Amenities
Bring your own reusable water bottle, shampoo, and toothpaste. Those complimentary plastics may be convenient but they contribute to a growing global waste problem.
The average hotel guest generates around 1kg of waste per night, much of it from plastic.
– UN Environment Programme
5. Dine Locally
Support your hotel’s restaurant if it offers seasonal, locally sourced produce or head out and explore local eateries that do. You’ll enjoy fresher food while supporting the local economy.
6. Connect With Hotel Staff
Hotels that truly care about sustainability often create meaningful employment opportunities for locals. Take the time to learn about the people and culture, your experience will be richer for it.
7. Join Low-Impact Experiences
Ask about nature-based or locally-run tours, beach clean-ups, or community initiatives. Many hotels support or offer activities that give back to the environment or the surrounding community.
Hotels that employ and engage local communities can generate up to 70% more economic benefit for the region.
– World Travel & Tourism Council
8. Give Back Where You Can
If your hotel supports a local charity or environmental program, consider donating or offering a skill. It’s a meaningful way to connect with the place you’re visiting.
9. Reuse Your Pool Towel
Avoid taking a fresh towel each time you swim. Reusing one across the day, or even the whole trip, helps reduce unnecessary laundry loads.
10. BYO Bottle to the Gym or Spa
Spas and gyms often offer single-use plastic cups. Bringing your own reusable water bottle is an easy way to avoid waste.
11. Tip Responsibly
In many countries, hotel staff rely on tips. Do your research or ask at reception to understand local customs and ensure you’re supporting the people who make your stay possible.
12. Speak Up for Sustainability
Notice something that could be improved? Whether it’s excessive plastic use or towels being replaced against policy, let the hotel know. Your feedback can help shift future practices.
13. Share the Wins
Write a review highlighting the hotel’s sustainable efforts—or where they fell short. Your words help others make informed, conscious choices when booking.
How to Choose a Truly Sustainable Hotel
Sustainability starts before you check in. To avoid greenwashing, look for reputable eco-certifications that indicate genuine environmental and social responsibility.
Top certifications to look for:
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EarthCheck – A science-backed certification common in Asia-Pacific.
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Green Key – Covers energy, waste, water, and staff practices in over 60 countries.
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LEED Certification – Recognised for sustainable building design and operations.
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B Corp Certification – Measures environmental, social, and governance standards.
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GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) – Offers globally recognised sustainability criteria.
These programs audit hotels across key areas such as waste management, energy efficiency, community impact, and ethical labour practices. Choosing certified accommodation helps ensure your stay contributes positively to the places and people you’re visiting.
Every Small Step Counts
Eco-friendly travel doesn’t require perfection, it just asks for intention. Whether you’re saying no to plastic bottles, supporting a local restaurant, or reusing your towel, these choices ripple outward.
Travel is a privilege, and how we show up in the world as guests matters. So the next time you check in, check your habits too, and leave a lighter footprint wherever you go. Because small habits, practiced by many, can create a big impact.
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Content sourced from ‘The Sustainable Travel Handbook’ by Lonely Planet. Select images thanks to Alilia Hotels and Resorts.
