Sustainable travel is growing in popularity, but what does it actually mean?

Travelling more sustainably isn’t just about hugging trees or drinking out of coconuts (though, both those things are wonderful). It’s about making sure the places we visit, the people we meet, and the planet we’re exploring don’t suffer at the cost of our travel.

It’s travel that gives a damn. And yeah, it’s a big deal right now because, well, we all need a planet to live on and if it dies we all die. But here’s the thing: not everyone’s doing it right. Some companies slap a green sticker on their brochure and call it a day. Others, like our mates at Contiki, are actually putting in the work. Well in, lads.

So, what does it mean to make sustainable choices in travel, when it’s done properly? And why should you care? Let’s break it down.

Sustainable travel, but make it zero effort

contiki chateau

Here’s the problem: responsible travel can feel like homework. Do I offset my flights? Should I pack my own bamboo cutlery? Is this hotel actually eco-friendly or just good at Instagram? It’s a minefield. But what if you could just… show up and know it’s already sorted? That’s where Contiki comes in. They’ve made sustainability standard, so you don’t have to stress about it. No spreadsheets, no guilt, no awkwardly Googling “is HVO biofuel a real thing?” (Spoiler: it is, and Contiki’s European coaches run on it, cutting emissions by 69.9%. Nice!)

They’ve also ditched single-use plastics on their coaches and in their accommodations, so forget about yet another mystery brand tiny shampoo bottle cluttering your life. And their two owned properties — Chateau de Cruix in France and Gasthof Schöneck in Austria — are powered by 100% renewable electricity.

Food waste is another major issue that has myriad knock-on effects and is just plain bad for the planet. Both the Chateau and the Gasthof have high-tech waste management solutions, capturing data on food waste to inform better menu planning and reduce waste.

Essentially, Contiki’s doing the heavy lifting so you can just enjoy the ride. Literally.

Busting the myth: sustainable = expensive

Contiki Albania

Here’s another thing people get wrong: sustainable travel doesn’t have to cost the earth. Contiki’s proving that you can travel responsibly without forking over a small fortune. Their trips are packed with eco-friendly perks, but they’re still designed for real people with real budgets.

Take their farm-to-table dining experiences, for example. You’re not just eating local food because it’s an absolutely incredible experience that far outweighs eating at some overpriced and under seasoned tourist trap with a sliver of Eiffel Tower views — you’re supporting local farmers and cutting down on food miles. Plus, it tastes so much better. Win-win.

contiki group locals

Contiki also focuses on giving travellers experiences that are so much bigger than themselves, allowing your travel to actually have a real-world, positive impact. Take their canal cruises in Amsterdam — you can get a regular cruise, or you can opt for tours led by refugees on the very boats they used to escape persecution. Or head to Jasper, Canada, where a hike gets levelled up by doing so alongside the Indigenous Cree community, allowing you to learn how natural is vital in their lifestyle, from medicine to ceremonies and beyond.

Making travel matter (without being preachy)

contiki peru

To put it simply, Contiki has big plans in making sure your travel doesn’t come at the cost of the planet, with a solid, actionable plans and science-based targets to back it up. Not only have they got big plans, but they’ve clearly already made huge steps and commitments. In short: they’re walking the walk.

Travel is one of the best things a person can experience. The yearn to explore is what makes us human. And being able to do that in a way that doesn't harm the planet and is easy, affordable, and actually enjoyable? Sign me the hell up.

Now, go pack your bags. The planet’s waiting.

Wanna travel more sustainably? All you need to do is head to Contiki and book – they'll handle the rest.