Every April, Earth Day serves as a gentle nudge (or sometimes a loud call) to think about how we impact the planet. And if you’re someone who loves to explore new places, it’s the perfect time to consider how your travel choices affect the environment. That’s where sustainable travel comes in—not just a buzzword, but a practical, planet-friendly approach to seeing the world.
Whether you’re planning a spring getaway or thinking ahead for summer, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite eco-friendly destinations and green travel tips to help you celebrate Earth Day—without sacrificing adventure or comfort.
Why Sustainable Travel Matters
Travel has a footprint. From emissions to waste to over-tourism, the impact can be big. But sustainable travel is all about reducing that impact—making intentional choices that support local communities, preserve natural spaces, and keep our favorite destinations beautiful for generations to come.
It’s not about giving up fun; it’s about choosing eco-conscious vacations that feel just as exciting—if not more so—because you know you’re doing good along the way.
Top Eco-Friendly Destinations to Consider
Looking for a destination that aligns with your Earth Day values? Here are a few places where sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a way of life:
- Costa Rica – Known for its biodiversity and conservation efforts, Costa Rica offers everything from rainforests and wildlife sanctuaries to eco-lodges and sustainable surf schools.
- Iceland – Powered almost entirely by renewable energy, Iceland is a geothermal wonderland of waterfalls, hot springs, and glaciers—perfect for the eco-conscious explorer.
- Slovenia – This hidden gem is Europe’s green darling, with Ljubljana earning the title of Europe’s Green Capital thanks to its car-free zones and green spaces.
- Alaska – For a closer-to-home option, Alaska’s national parks and wilderness lodges focus heavily on preservation. (We even have a sample itinerary to help you start planning: Grab your free Alaskan Itinerary here)
Green Travel Tips You Can Use Anywhere
No matter where you’re headed, you can make your trip more sustainable with these easy shifts:
Be Wildlife-Wise – Respect local wildlife by avoiding attractions that exploit animals. If you’re not sure, a good rule of thumb is: if you can touch it, ride it, or take a selfie with it—it’s probably not ethical.
Pack Reusables – Think reusable water bottles, utensils, and cloth bags. It cuts down on single-use plastics and makes you feel like a low-key superhero. 😉
Choose Greener Stays – Look for hotels or resorts that have eco-certifications or sustainable practices like solar power, recycling programs, and water conservation.
Support Local – Eat at local restaurants, buy handmade souvenirs, and book locally run tours. It keeps money in the community and supports smaller economies.
Offset Your Carbon – If you’re flying, consider purchasing carbon offsets. Many airlines offer this now, or you can use third-party sites to calculate and balance your emissions.
Planning Your Earth Day Vacation (Or Any Eco-Conscious Trip)
Whether you’re planning something special for Earth Day or just looking for more environmentally friendly travel options year-round, it’s all about finding balance. You don’t have to go fully off-grid to be a sustainable traveler. Even small changes—choosing a nonstop flight, eating more plant-based meals on the road, or picking a greener resort—can make a big difference.
Want help planning a sustainable trip? We’d love to work with you to find eco-friendly destinations that match your style. Plus, we have tips and resources to help make your next vacation more meaningful and mindful.
👉 Request your vacation quote here and let us know you’re interested in sustainable travel!
Or if you’re just looking for inspiration for now, come hang out in our VIP Facebook group where we share destination ideas, travel tips, and all things family travel: Join our VIP group
Planning with the planet in mind doesn’t mean giving up comfort or convenience. It just means making thoughtful choices—and we’re here to help you do exactly that.