What is a sustainable travel plan? 

A sustainable travel plan includes awareness and responsibility to reduce the negative impact on the destination. The key to eco-travel is supporting the local communities and promoting hidden gems and activities. In addition, try to travel with less carbon footprint and stay in eco-friendly accommodation.  

Why is sustainable travel important? 

Sustainable travel, also known as eco-friendly travel, includes measures to reduce carbon footprint and wastage while travelling. The main responsibility of sustainable travel involves protecting the environment, natural resources, and wildlife. There are several reasons why we should take sustainable travel on a serious note. For example: 

• To prevent fluctuations in temperature and sea levels 
• Reduce the loss of ecosystem 
• To find a reasonable balance between responsible tourism and protecting the environment 
• To reduce pollution and littering 

• To save and reuse natural resources 

Choosing an eco-friendly travel system is the best way to preserve our ecosystem while keeping the transport sector alive in the long run.  

How sustainable travel leaves an impact on several aspects of our society? 

Environment: 

Sustainable travel plans help to preserve rare and precious flora and fauna species. Sustainable travel enables us to protect the natural treasure with efficient and effective strategies and by giving minimal impact to pollution. In addition, sustainable travel plans help combat climate change. 

Culture: 

Sustainable travel plans leave a crucial impact on the culture of the human race. It helps prevent the socio-cultural displacement of indigenous people of that area; which means the locals don't have to leave their roots and go to a big city to make a living. Eco-friendly travel plans promote local employment, especially in smaller towns or remote villages. 

Economic development: 

Due to the careful planning and implementation of various developments in local areas, sustainable tourism boosts our overall economic development. 

Sustainable products for a backpacking trip: 

Water filter bottles: 

Single-use plastic bottles are not only heavy on your pocket but also increase the amount of wastage on the planet. Near around 5.25 trillion macro and micro pieces of plastics are found in the ocean. Almost 46,000 plastic bottles are found in every square foot of the ocean. Especially while trekking or going on a backpacking trip, people tend to carry plastic mineral water bottles and throw them anywhere after finishing, increasing landfill. The soil needs more than 300 years for the plastic to decompose, and that's why we need to start making smarter choices. Refillable water bottles are easy to carry and also harmless for health. TheBetterHome's copper water bottles are lightweight, leakproof, and easy to clean. 

Utensils: 

While travelling, we often use plastic cutlery or foil packs while eating. But, after we are finished, it goes to the garbage or maybe in some random corner, leading to dirty, messy, and foul odour. So, it's better to carry your own utensils. Though we are used to wat with steel spoons, you can also carry bamboo utensils that are durable, lightweight, and cause no harm to the environment. You can also carry the cutlery in a small pouch and wash it after every meal. Also, Bamboo utensils are anti-microbial, heat resistant, and benefit your overall health. Also, bamboo has a higher tensile strength than wood or steel. 

Bamboo towels and toothbrush: 

Carry your own bath towel and toothbrush; if possible, go for cotton bamboo bath towels and brushes. Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants; it's growth rate is almost 80% over a year. In addition, bamboo grows naturally on Earth without any pesticide or insecticide. As a result, bamboo is the fastest growing plant on Earth as a self-sustained plant. It can grow up to 1 meter per day, has an expansive root network that doesn't need replanting, grows efficiently, and yields more than cotton. In addition, bamboo towels are high-absorbent and odour resistant. Bamboo towels are also more durable and softer on the skin. TheBetterhome's bamboo bath towel gives you a spa-like luxurious experience and is easily washable. 

Insect protection:  

Especially if you are going for a trek or camp, don't forget to carry mosquito spray or any after-bite balm. Generally, in the deep forest of mountains, there are several unknown insects whose stings can put you at life risk. Try to wear full sleeves, and don't forget to use mosquito repellant while travelling and even before sleeping. TheBetterHome is here eco-friendly mosquito repellant spray and patches. It contains eucalyptus oil; the aroma of this essential oil generally repels mosquitos and insects. It is chemical and paraben free and leaves no harsh effect on the skin. 

Plastic-free sanitary products: 

Try to replace regular pads with tampons or menstrual cups. Sanitary napkin packaging contained plastic and had to be thrown away after usage. Tampons can be used for at least 6-8 hours, whereas you have to change the pads every 2-4 hours, and you can use menstrual cups at least for 10-12 hours, and it is also easily washable.