Sustainable Travel: A Guide For Beginners

In a lot of countries, there are already bans on plastic bags, but there are a lot more things that you can also say no to. Invest (if you haven’t already) in a durable grocery bag, cloth food baggies, some food boxes, a set of cutlery and a nice water bottle, and if you want, a metal (or other material) reusable straw. The boxes will make bringing food on the go a lot easier; your water bottle just needs a refill so you can skip buying single-use water bottles, and your sturdy bag can carry at least the same (but most likely more) weight as a plastic bag.

You probably do some recycling at home, so why not when you’re on the road (or on the tracks!). Every country has their own recycling program, so try to find out where and how you can recycle any trash that you create in the country you’re in. And, naturally, don’t litter! If there’s not a rubbish bin around, take it with you and dispose of it when you can.

There are a few ways to find an accommodation that fits your new sustainable travel style. The first one is to rent a room or apartment directly from locals: this way, your money will flow right back into the local economy. Another type of accommodation you could consider is sleeping at an ecolodge or ecohotel. The way of working and the infrastructure at these accommodations have been improved to minimise the impact on the environment, which reduces your carbon footprint. 

Try to shop local! Get your groceries at markets, eat at local restaurants (no chain restaurants you can find anywhere) and find nice souvenirs in small boutiques. And it doesn't have to stop there, also for tours of the city and other activities you can choose local businesses. All of this will support the local economy.

Getting from one destination to the other is easy-peasy with your Interrail Pass, but getting around at your destination is another story. Sometimes you can get by with just walking (as sustainable as it gets), but if a city is bigger than your legs can handle, see if you can rent a bike or make use of the different public transport available. In some cities, public transport is even included in your Pass, so you can skip the taxi! Don’t forget to check out the Pass benefits of the country you’re travelling in.