A simple guide on responsible travel - JWT Travel

A simple guide on responsible travel

Travelling isn’t only about exploring new places, but also an opportunity to practice responsible travel.

Whether you join a relaxing river or ocean cruise, walk one of the ancient trails of the Camino de Santiago guided tours; or experience the excitement of a rugby, football and Formula 1 trip, there must always be a growing understanding of the importance of travelling with care.

Today, we would like to share a simple guide on responsible travel, making your trip one that is conscious of the impact we have on the planet we live on and the local communities we meet along the way.

forest pilgrims walking Camino de Santiago trail JWT tours

1- Pack light and consciously

Small mindful actions are without any doubt a way to respect the destinations we visit. One way to do so, is by packing light and consciously, this means less is more, and packing only what you need for your trip.

Carrying a refillable and reusable water bottle instead of single-use plastic ones; reusable bags like tote bags for local purchasing, and even recyclable toilet bottles, will make your journey one that is environmentally friendly and will help reduce your environmental footprint.

2- Recycle and leave no trace

Disposing our waste responsibly is also a way to care for the places we visit.

Recycle whenever facilities are available or hold onto your recyclables until you reach a suitable location. Bring a small bag for collecting any waste throughout the day and leave recyclable items in your hotel room with a note, so the hotel staff will dispose them properly.

Whether you are walking the Camino de Santiago, skying in Italy or France on a school trip, or exploring the USA as part of a escorted tour, always avoid leaving items behind. Even something as small as a fruit peel or snack wrapper should be properly disposed of.

Let’s ensure that these places remain clean and preserved for future travellers.

3- Support the local communities

Responsible travel also means helping the local communities that welcome us. This can be shopping from local artisans, dining at local restaurants or simply learning about the culture, language and history of the area you are visiting.

Even small gestures, like learning how to say hello, please, or thank you in the local language, demonstrates respect and helps build genuine connections with the locals who live there.

These conscious actions will also enrich your journey, turning it into a more meaningful and respectful trip.

4 – Be mindful in your accommodation

While in the comfort of your hotel room or guesthouse, we would always recommend to be mindful of your environmental impact. Small actions like turning off lights, air conditioning and heating when you leave your room can make a huge difference.

And of course, don’t forget to keep your space tidy and neat, this shows respect and consideration for the hotel staff who care for it each day.

5 -Be kind and respectful

Being polite to hosts, reps, guides, hotel staff and fellow travellers can truly enrich your journey.

Remembering that we are visitors in a town or city, so it is important to be respectful not only with hosts but also with the natural spaces that surround us. Traveling with care shows gratitude for the path you are on and the people who make it possible.

Contact our travel team for more information about our upcoming tours and for more travel ideas.

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