Wander wisely: A guide to responsible summer travel 2025

Summers’ already here and the world is once again ready to welcome vacationers and holidaymakers with thrilling adventures and more. But let’s not forget that there’s a growing impact of tourism on the environment and local communities.And today, it has become more important to consider how we travel more than before.We are talking about responsible travel or sustainable tourism. Let’s not call it a trend, but a necessary shift in how we travel/explore/discover the world. From reducing our carbon footprint to supporting local economies, there are several ways to make travel more ethical and eco-conscious.Here’s how to travel responsibly this summer:Eco-Friendly Transportation: Let’s not ignore the fact that transportation accounts for a huge share of tourism’s carbon footprint. Whenever possible, opt for trains, buses, or shared transport rather than flights and rental cars."I used to think flying was the only way to travel efficiently, but after taking a cross-country train trip last summer, I realised how much more enriching—and sustainable—it is," says Maya Jaiswal, a budding travel photographer based in Noida. For longer distances, if flying is unavoidable, consider purchasing carbon offsets. Many must not be aware of the fact that some airlines offer this option during booking, or you can use many reputable programs.Choose greener stays: There is no denying that more properties and guesthouses are adopting sustainable practices—from energy-efficient lighting and water-saving systems to recycling programs and organic food sourcing. "I always try to stay at a green resort or guesthouse," says Leena Nihal, a backpacker from Goa who’s spent the last year exploring Southeast Asia. "It’s great to see a hotel supporting locals, working towards reducing waste, and avoiding single-use plastics."Respect local traditions: Sustainable tourism isn’t just about the environment—it’s also about social responsibility and respecting local customs, traditions, following their dress codes and learning new languages, among others."In Spain, I made an effort to learn basic Spanish words and know about their local customs," says Anita Thapar, a travel blogger from Mumbai. "Locals are so much more accepting, warm and welcoming when they see us respecting their way of life.": Overtourism is one of the biggest concerns in the travel industry. Places like the Taj Mahal in India, Machu Picchu in Peru, Venice, Mount Fuji in Japan, Barcelona, and Bali are experiencing severe overtourism. This harms the environment along with irritating locals. So, it is suggested to visit less-travelled destinations where your presence is more welcome."Last summer, I skipped Bali and went exploring hidden gems in Indonesia," shares Hemant Singh, an Indian photographer. "It was peaceful, beautiful, and no crowd! So much peace."Support local businesses: When you spend money abroad, choose to eat at a locally-owned restaurant and shop from street vendors over international chains. "Whenever I travel, I try to eat at a family-run or local restaurant instead of any global fast-food chain. It is the best way to understand the local cuisine and culture." Supporting local businesses helps preserve cultural heritage and keeps tourism revenue within the community.Travel light: Packing light helps! It reduces the energy used in transportation. Do bring reusable items such as a water bottle, shopping bag, straw, and utensils to cut off single-use plastic waste. Also, be mindful of your consumption—don’t take in more food than you’ll eat.: Whether you're hiking through a national park or snorkeling, practice "leave no trace" principles. Stay on marked trails, avoid touching wildlife, and never remove natural items like rocks or shells. "While photographing wildlife in Sri Lanka, I was sad to see tourists feeding elephants junk food just for a picture." says Shikha Rawat, a wildlife photographer. Educate yourself and others: Knowledge is a powerful tool in creating sustainable travel habits. Before your trip, learn about local environmental challenges, traditions, and the economic realities of the destination. Share your insights with fellow travelers to inspire a broader movement toward responsible tourism.Be a local volunteer: Volunteering can be rewarding—but it’s necessary to ensure your efforts truly benefit the community. Look for programs led by locals, with sustainable goals and clear transparency.: In the end, sustainable travel is all about mindset as much as method. So make sure you know the reason behind your travel. For pictures or for real experiences? "For me, responsible travel isn’t about being perfect," says Ms. Rawat. "It’s about being conscious of my choices and trying to leave a place a little better than I found it."So in short, sustainable tourism isn’t just about sacrificing enjoyment—it’s about enriching your travel experience while protecting the planet and respecting the people who inhabit it. As you plan your summer adventures, consider how your choices can leave a lighter footprint and a more meaningful impact!