This article appeared in SoFi's On the Money newsletter. Not getting it? Sign up here.

You want to be a good tourist. Meaning you don't want the fact that you're vacationing to hurt the environment or the local economy you're visiting. Ideally you want it to help.

People call this "responsible travel," "sustainable tourism," or "ecotourism." Each of these terms means something a bit different, but the overall idea is the same: to minimize negative impacts like carbon emissions and water usage, while maximizing positive ones. This might involve giving business to locals or building awareness of Indigenous people.

The challenge is making this happen: While 85% of travelers recently surveyed by Booking.com said sustainability is important to them, 42% said choosing more sustainable options was too time-consuming and 38% said it was too expensive. Almost as many indicated they just didn't know where to start.

With airfare and gas prices climbing, traveling probably feels pricey enough. And eco-friendly tours or hotels may not be the most affordable options. But you can be a more conscientious traveler even on a limited budget.

Here are five ways to travel more sustainably and potentially cut costs:

1. Travel at off-peak times.

When tourists crowd into popular destinations in peak seasons, they risk clogging airports, crowding streets and shops, and trampling over the local scenery. Try to plan your trips when it's not expected to be overrun with out-of-towners — which often coincides with lower airfares, hotel rates and admission prices for local attractions.

2. Travel by train or bus and spend more time in fewer places.

Tourism transit accounted for about 5% of all manmade carbon emissions as of 2016, according to a World Tourism Organization study. While any travel will likely leave a carbon footprint, trains, buses, and ferries are more carbon-friendly and can be less expensive than flying.

•   Riding an Amtrak is more energy-efficient than driving (46% more) and flying (34% more), according to the company. And if you ride on one of its electric trains, those produce up to 83% fewer emissions than cars and 72% fewer than planes.

•   A 2025 study by the Zurich University of Applied Sciences found that the average family with luggage and children pays less than half as much to travel by rail than plane in Europe.

•   Use an emissions calculator like this one to compare the impact of different types of transportation and accommodation. (If you're going to fly, non-stops are best, since take-off and landing are the most fuel-intensive parts of a flight.)

•   Once you're at your destination, remember: Low-impact activities like walking, hiking, or bicycling are easy money-savers and limit your footprint.

3. Avoid "maybe" items in the suitcase.

Packing light has always been a good way to avoid airline baggage fees, but carrying fewer things also reduces fuel usage and carbon emissions. And with baggage fees going up along with the price of jet fuel, it's even more important to pack with intention.

•   Bring versatile clothes and accessories that can work for any occasion, upstyled or dressed down, or washed by hand. And, if possible: a quick-dry towel (to avoid dryers) and reusable water bottle.

4. Immerse yourself.

One component of sustainable travel is putting your dollars into the community you're visiting, instead of into all-inclusive resorts owned by international corporations or on goods made in other countries (a phenomenon known as economic leakage). Try eating and staying like a local wherever you go. You'll get a more authentic experience and support the local economy.

5. Watch for "greenwashing."

As eco-tourism gets more popular, there's more incentive for companies to buy in. But with over 130 different certifications, or standards, to attest to "green" practices, Conde Nast Traveler says not all labels carry the same weight. Learn what goes into the different certifications, and don't be afraid to ask questions to make sure a business's practices align with your goals.

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

OTM2026061501