What is responsible travel?
Outdoor exploration and travel can open minds and hearts to new experiences, cultures, ideas and deep connections with nature. When you travel responsibly, you can positively impact the communities you visit without leaving a negative footprint on the natural world.
Responsible travel means careful trip planning and considering the people, environment, and wildlife at your destination.
Support local businesses in the places you visit.
When you travel to a new community, consider how you spend your money. Choosing locally owned accommodations and restaurants, buying from local businesses, and booking local tours will put more money into the pockets of the people who live there. Plus, you’re supporting the things that help make that place special.
Respect and care for the environment.
People who spend a lot of time outdoors are familiar with the phrase “leave no trace.” That means leaving a natural environment exactly how you found it or better. Pack out your garbage and recycling. Leave behind natural things like flowers and seashells (take a picture instead!) so everyone can enjoy them and stay on designated trails. Never feed or provoke wildlife; give these beautiful creatures lots of space. Keep ATVs out of waterways, and if you make a structure while camping in the backcountry, dismantle it before you leave.
Respect the local community and cultures.
Be respectful of the local community, including buildings and infrastructure. Always ask permission before entering private land, homes or sacred spaces. Don’t take pictures of people, especially children, without their permission. In recent years, some destinations in Canada have suffered damage from wildfires, storms or floods. If so, be mindful of recovery areas and obey area closures.
Make eco-friendly choices.
When researching your trip or adventure, try to make green choices. For example, you can choose hotels, tour companies, and other businesses that have eco-certifications or labels. Choose eco-friendly transportation when possible, like public transportation, walking, or cycling. Try to buy things with less packaging and consider eating in or bringing your own food containers instead of using single-use takeaway containers. Making simple choices like these can go a long way toward sustainable travel and a greener lifestyle.