Meg Goes Global

Travel is a massive privilege that only a small percentage of the population will ever get to experience; so it’s important we preserve the natural beauty of the world as much as we can. While this is obviously protecting the environment, it’s also having good ethics on the road, and being kind to people everywhere you go. You don’t just want to leave somewhere like you found it, but leave somewhere even better: for you, and for the local area. No, you’re not going to single-handedly save the world, but why not be part of the solution instead of part of the problem.

Everyone is on their own journey, for their very own reasons, but we have a joint responsibility as humanity to protect the beautiful earth we live on. I think spending so much time in nature as many backpackers do, definitely highlights the importance of protecting the world for those in coming years. Connecting with people from all different walks of life, and many less fortunate than us, emphasises the gratitude we should have, and the responsibility to spread as much good as we can. Not to mention the fact no one wants to add to the typical Brits abroad stereotype that curses us all around the world. So these are some pointers to be mindful of how you travel. After all, travel is an opportunity you should not waste.

think about modes of transport

Lowering our carbon footprint on the road is not as simple as never catching a flight again. It’s about making as many responsible decisions along the way as possible. Catching flights obviously leaves a large footprint, but sometimes they are unavoidable. If you are flying, opt for longer flights as opposed to more connections, as most of the fuel is used in take off and landing. Pack lighter, because the less weight, the less fuel. Offset your emissions when you can.

Where possible, walk or ride a bike over small distances. Your legs will thank you in the long run. Catch public transport for longer distances, or if you are going to drive, then car share. These will not only save the planet but your bank balance too.

mindful use of plastic

The great pacific garbage patch is currently three times the size of France. Just think about that.

Too many stunning beaches across the world are plagued with single use plastic waste scattered on the shore. If every time we go to the beach, we all picked up one bag full of rubbish to dispose of, think how much we could do as a collective. The real solution however, lies at the core, and reducing the plastic consumption is the only way to prevent this in the future.

It’s so obvious and simple, but easily forgotten. Bring a reusable water bottle wherever you go, and a tote bag. Say no to plastic bags, you don’t need them! Use solid shampoo and conditioner bars to save on plastic packaging. Buy local: for example fruit from markets has less plastic packaging than your big supermarkets. Bring your own metal straw and bamboo cutlery to avoid using plastic, and become best friends with reusable menstrual products.

eat less meat and dairy

No not everyone wants to suddenly go vegan, but meat and dairy productions contribute to a large percentage of carbon emissions. Not to mention taking up a ridiculous amount of land and water. If we took all the energy and space we use to grow crops to feed the animals we eat, and instead distributed it among us humans, we could feed the world. Where you can, eat less or none at all, and if everyone did this it would make a huge difference. If you can’t go without meat or dairy, then eat local produce to reduce your food miles, and be aware of where your supplies are coming from.

don’t go to animal attractions

There is no excuse for petting drugged up tigers, or riding elephants in 2025: it’s just a big no! If you are interested in seeing animals, go and see them in an ethical sanctuary, or even better, in their natural habitat. Yes, there might be less of a chance of seeing wild animals, but surely that’s what makes it more special. There are many ethical concerns as to whether any type of artificial environment, that isn’t an animal’s natural habitat, can be ethical at all, so truly think about it before you go paying a large company any money.

stay local

You don’t need to stay in the same chain hostel, which don’t get me wrong I am definitely guilty of doing. Support the locals and small businesses by spending money in their restaurants, staying in home stays and independently run hostels. Not only do you get to support real people without big corporate companies taking your money, you also more often than not get a more personal experience. You can get a lot more out of speaking with locals and making true connections, rather than being just another one of thousands of guests at a chain hostel. I think even I could take big note from this one.

travel slower

Where you have the luxury of time, travel slower. You get to truly experience a place without getting majorly burnt out, and also get greener by taking slower modes of transport. Don’t be just another tourist and actually give back to the community. The longer you stay in a place the more chance you get to give back, whether that be through money or services.

You can also get a true authentic feel for a place rather than only fleetingly experiencing the hotspot attractions. Dive deeper, get to know the people and volunteer if you can.

get off the beaten track

It’s easy to overwhelm and push out the local people when places get over-touristy, and the locals can’t cope. Stay away from the hotspots and visit second cities to spread this out. Of course its natural to want to visit popular places because they are most likely popular for a reason, but don’t let that force you to overlook other beautiful destinations that are less talked about, and don’t receive the same attention.

Cruises are the worst for this in so many ways. Dropping off thousands of tourists for just a day into a local area, and not teaching them about responsibility. Not to mention all the waste the all inclusive type of travel creates. It would be a good idea to avoid these.

I think the key with all of this advice is awareness. Problems arise only with ignorance, so for as long as you stay open minded and willing to learn along the way, you can’t go too wrong.