"The Road Less Expensive" Newsletter

Beyond the Reusable Water Bottle: A New Approach to Sustainable Travel

Hi friends,

If you're gearing up for your next adventure, let’s have a quick reality check.

For years, we’ve been told that bringing a reusable water bottle is the gold standard of sustainable travel. And while that’s a great start, let’s be real, it’s 2025, and we need to do more.

Now, we’ll admit it: We haven’t always been the best at this. Our own travel style is always shifting, and like most people, we’re figuring it out as we go.

But as more and more of us pack our bags and set off into the world, it’s time to start making small, conscious changes that add up. I think we can all accomplish a teensy bit beyond the bare minimum, right?!

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The Problem: Overtourism Is Real (and It's Not Pretty)

You’ve probably seen the headlines: iconic destinations struggling under the weight of too many visitors. This BBC article recently explored how places like Italy are starting to push back against unsustainable tourism (read here).

Tourists aren’t just leaving behind footprints, they’re leaving behind strain on local communities, fragile ecosystems, and even the quality of life for the people who actually live there.

But don’t worry, this isn’t about making you feel guilty for traveling (we’d never do that 😅). It’s about finding ways to explore the world without wrecking it.

The Fix: Small Changes That Matter

Sustainable travel isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being mindful. Here are some simple ways to start:

✅ Reevaluate How You Get There​
Trains, buses, and carpooling are often better options than flights. But if you do fly, choose airlines that invest in sustainability, book direct flights, and pack light (yes, every kilo counts).

✅ Choose Your Stay Wisely​
Opt for locally owned guesthouses, eco-certified hotels, or even homestays instead of big chains. We also try to avoid Airbnb in destinations where local housing is a crisis, supporting hotels instead helps prevent rising rent and property prices for locals. That said, we're all for Airbnb in remote or lesser-known areas!

✅ Support Local, Not Just Convenient​
Instead of eating at tourist-trap restaurants, seek out family-owned spots, shop at local markets, and book tours with small businesses. Your money goes directly into the community rather than into massive corporations.

✅ Ditch the “Must-Do” Mentality​
Not every landmark needs another selfie. Venture beyond the obvious, visit offbeat destinations, and travel during off-peak seasons. You'll experience a more authentic side of a place and help ease overtourism.

✅ Be Smart About Waste​
Bring your own utensils, bags, and containers. Say no to plastic straws, water bottles, and single-use toiletries. Little changes, big impact.

✅ Rethink Animal Tourism​
Avoid attractions that exploit animals (no elephant rides, dolphin shows, or sketchy wildlife encounters). If you want to see wildlife, choose ethical sanctuaries or observe from a respectful distance in nature.

Remember, It’s Not About Being Perfect. Just Better.

Sustainable travel isn’t an all-or-nothing game. It’s about making better choices when you can, learning as you go, and being more intentional about how you move through the world.

So, as you plan your next trip, ask yourself: How can I leave this place just as beautiful as I found it? If we all start there, we’re already making a difference.

Happy (sustainable) travels,
Adventures of Ace

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Are you ready to hit the road? Check off your to-do list:

​✔️ Use Skyscanner’s* calendar tool to find the cheapest flights for your dates.
✔️ Score the lowest accommodation prices on Booking.com* and skip hidden or inflated fees on Airbnb.
✔️ Plan your itinerary! Explore discounted activities in top destinations with GetYourGuide.*​
✔️ Stay prepared for the unexpected and protect your trip with SafetyWing travel insurance.*

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