Low-Impact Travel Goals You Can Actually Stick To
As January wraps up (and that “New Year, New Me” mindset is starting to already feel like “New Year, No Thanks”), now is a great time to reassess all those great intentions we had a few weeks ago and determine what’s actually stuck vs. what needs adjusting.
Hopefully, if travel is on your list we’ve come up with some outlines for the year of where and when we’re going (if not, no worries! You still got this!). But there’s another aspect of travel that a lot of people want to focus on, which is being more intentional about how they travel.
If “sustainable travel” is on your radar this year but the idea of doing it perfectly feels overwhelming, here’s some good news: low-impact travel isn’t about giving things up or getting it right every time. It’s about making thoughtful choices where you can—and letting go of the rest.
These are realistic, low-impact travel goals you can actually stick to, no matter how or where you travel.
First, Let’s Redefine “Low-Impact”
Low-impact travel doesn’t mean zero waste, no flights, or sleeping in a hammock with a solar charger (unless that’s your thing).
It simply means being mindful of how your choices affect the places you visit—the people, the environment, and the wildlife—and making small adjustments that reduce harm and increase respect.
It’s progress over perfection. Always.
1. Travel Slower When You Can
One of the easiest ways to reduce your travel footprint is to take fewer, longer trips instead of hopping from place to place.
Slower travel often means:
Fewer flights or long transport days
Less rushing and burnout
More meaningful time in one destination
That might look like staying in one region instead of three, or choosing depth over a packed checklist. And if your schedule doesn’t allow for this every time? That’s okay. Low-impact travel isn’t all-or-nothing.
2. Be Thoughtful About Where You Stay
You don’t have to book an eco-lodge in the jungle to make a difference.
Small lodging choices matter, like:
Staying at locally owned hotels or guesthouses
Choosing properties that clearly outline their sustainability practices
Opting out of daily towel and linen changes
Many accommodations are doing meaningful work behind the scenes—it’s just a matter of knowing what to look for (and avoiding greenwashing, aka claiming eco-friendly practices but not actually living that life). This is also where having a travel advisor can really help vet options for you.
3. Support Local—Even Once a Day Counts
You don’t need to do this for every meal or activity to make an impact.
Try aiming for:
One locally owned restaurant per day
Booking local guides or small-group tours
Purchasing handmade or regionally made souvenirs
Supporting local businesses keeps money in the community and often leads to more authentic experiences—without requiring extra effort from you.
4. Be Wildlife-Wise
You already know where I’m going with this.
Not every animal experience is an ethical one, even if it’s popular or well-marketed.
A good rule of thumb: if an experience allows touching, riding, feeding, or close interaction with wild animals, it’s worth questioning.
Low-impact wildlife travel focuses on:
Observation over interaction
Ethical sanctuaries and conservation-based tours
Experiences that prioritize animal welfare over photos
Ethical standards can vary by region, so nuance matters—but choosing wildlife-respectful experiences is one of the most meaningful low-impact choices you can make.
5. Pack Smarter, Not More
You don’t need a perfectly curated eco kit to travel more sustainably.
A few reusables that actually get used go a long way:
A refillable water bottle
A small tote bag
A compact utensil set or straw
Just as important? Packing lighter. Fewer items mean less stress, easier transport, and often a lower environmental footprint overall.
6. Use Carbon Offsets Thoughtfully
A carbon offset is a way to balance out the emissions created by activities like flying by funding projects that reduce or remove carbon elsewhere—such as reforestation, renewable energy, or conservation initiatives. Carbon offsets are typically purchased through a small additional fee, with the funds supporting projects that reduce or remove carbon emissions elsewhere.
Carbon offsets can be a helpful tool—especially for flights—but they work best as a supplement, not a solution.
If you choose to offset:
Look for reputable, transparent programs
Understand where your money is going
Pair offsets with other low-impact choices when possible
Think of offsets as part of a bigger picture, not a free pass.
How a Travel Partner Can Help You Travel Lighter
Low-impact travel doesn’t have to be another thing on your mental load.
A thoughtful travel partner can help:
Choose destinations and seasons that reduce strain on communities
Avoid overcrowded areas when possible
Design itineraries that align with your values and your travel style
If you decide to partner with us, our goal is to help you travel in a way that feels good—both while you’re away and after you return.
Start Small. Stay Curious.
You don’t need to overhaul how you travel this year. Pick one low-impact habit and start there.
Travel done thoughtfully can be restorative, grounding, and deeply connected—to place, people, and purpose. And the more intention you bring into it, the lighter it tends to feel.
Yours in flight,
Tianna
