10 Ways To Travel Ethically Anywhere In The World

I don’t know about you, but the more of the world I see… The better I want to be at taking care of it. And that’s not only in relation to the environment (but duh), it’s also in relation to the people, the cultures, and doing whatever I can to leave anywhere better than I found it. It’s a simple idea… But sometimes in the moment, we’re not sure how to contribute. That’s what this list is for!

Below are ten ways to travel ethically, regardless of where it is you are. Maybe you’re already doing many of these, but find an area you could improve. Maybe you’ve never been mindful of how your presence affects the places you’re visiting, and this is where you turn a new leaf!

Regardless, I hope you find something here to take with you into your next adventure:

1. Support local businesses

Eat at family-run restaurants, stay in locally owned guesthouses, and shop at neighborhood markets. Your money goes directly into the community instead of international chains. This is one of the EASIEST ways to be mindful and typically leads to a more authentic and magical experience.

And don’t be afraid to think outside the box! For example – I needed to rent a car in Albania last weekend, and rather than renting from a corporation, I rented a car from a website connecting travelers to local businesses, called Rent From Locals. The experience was 10/10 and I was able to support a local business!

2. Respect cultural norms

Take time to learn about local dress codes, traditions, and social etiquette. Even small gestures – like covering your shoulders when entering a temple – show respect. Plus, part of the fun of travel is the “when in Rome” mindset… Live like a local!

3. Reduce plastic waste

Carry a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and utensils. Many destinations struggle with waste management, so keeping your footprint small matters.

This is an area I am personally looking to improve – Reducing waste can be difficult, especially in parts of the world without drinkable tap water or if you’re traveling long-term without access to a kitchen, leading to meals from local markets and street vendors.

It’s all about balance and mindfulness.

Is there a water fountain you can walk to every morning to fill your bottle? Can you purchase a large jug of water rather than a dozen small bottles? Can you consume more fresh produce and less processed goods in wasteful packaging?

These days, you can even find reusable water bottles that filter dirty water for you! I’ve always loved the LifeStraw brand, and they make a highly-rated water bottle with a built-in filter available on Amazon.

4. Use public or shared transportation

Hop on local buses, trains, or rideshares when you can. It’s cheaper, more sustainable, and often gives you a more authentic view of daily life.

5. Choose experiences that give back

Book tours and activities that reinvest in the community, such as cooperatives, social enterprises, or guides who are locals rather than large international operators.

A super simple way to do this is by booking through Airbnb Experiences, which connects you to local small businesses – While websites like Get Your Guide and Viator tend to feature more large corporations (but not always).

Some ways to verify whether something you’re booking is run by a local:

Check the operator’s name.
On GetYourGuide or Airbnb, look at who’s actually running the tour. Google them directly – Do they have their own website or social media?

Read reviews carefully
Look for mentions of “the owner” or guides by name. That usually indicates a small business. If reviews talk about multiple different guides and “groups of 30+,” it’s probably a larger operator.

Contact them directly.
If you find their name, email or message them outside the platform. Many will happily take direct bookings (and keep more of the money).

Look for licensing style.
Local operators may be family-owned and emphasize cultural or personal storytelling. Bigger companies often highlight logistics and scale.

Follow the money.
If the booking system charges VAT in a foreign country and issues receipts in the name of a global company, it’s not local.

6. Travel slow when possible

Instead of hopping from city to city in a rush, spend more time in fewer places. You’ll save on emissions and form a deeper connection with the culture.

In my opinion, this is the only way to truly experience the place you’re visiting! Even if your trip is limited to a week, finding a homebase with day-trips surrounding is a great way to see a lot without hopping from city to city.

7. Protect wildlife and nature

Avoid attractions that exploit animals or damage natural habitats. Stick to ethical wildlife sanctuaries and follow “leave no trace” principles outdoors.

8. Learn a few local phrases

A simple “hello,” “thank you,” or “how much?” in the native language goes a long way in showing you value the culture.

I am currently in Albania, and the only Albanian I know is “faleminderit!” But you can see the appreciation when a local is shown gratitude and respect after an interaction.

That being said, I’m embarrassed to have not learned more of the language while I’ve been here. In fact – I will learn another phrase today after publishing this list! 🙂

9. Be mindful with photos

Always ask before photographing people, especially in sensitive or spiritual spaces. Think of your camera as a tool for connection, not intrusion.

You would think this is obvious, but in 2025, people are ruthless with their content!

10. Give thoughtfully

Instead of handing out money or gifts to children, support local schools, NGOs, or initiatives that provide long-term benefits.

This one can be TOUGH when you’re traveling in a place with a large un-housed population and/or high poverty rates – But you have to remember that saying yes will only encourage child labor and keep kids out of school; What they really need is long-term support through community programs and education.

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At the heart of ethical travel is respect – for people, culture, wildlife, and the planet. When you make small, conscious choices, you not only enrich your own journey but also leave a positive mark on the places and communities that welcome you.

Did you learn anything from this list of ethical ways to travel? If so, let me know below. 🙂