Tips for sustainable adventure holidays

Planning an Adventure Holiday: Simple Tips for a Sustainable Journey

Planning an adventure holiday is always exciting! From the anticipation and research to prepping your gear and chatting with friends about what to pack, the build-up to a trip can be just as enjoyable as the adventure itself. But in today’s world, we’re more aware than ever of the impact our travels have on the environment and local communities. Whether it’s the food we bring, the way we travel, or the footprint we leave behind, every choice matters.

Fortunately, creating a memorable, eco-friendly experience doesn’t have to be complicated. For women who love exploring the outdoors, particularly on walking holidays, here are a few simple tips to help make your next adventure both enjoyable and sustainable:

1. Respect Local Cultures and Traditions
   Whether you’re hiking in a national park or trekking in a remote village, be mindful of the local customs and expectations. Respecting the culture and understanding the rules around trails or mountains can enhance your experience and leave a positive impression on the communities you visit.

2. Plan for Permits
   Make sure you have the correct permits or permissions for the areas you’re visiting. This is especially important on walking holidays, where access to certain trails might be restricted to protect the environment.

3. Reuse Gear or Borrow from Friends
   Before rushing to buy new gear, check what you already have or consider borrowing from a friend. If you must buy new items, look for eco-friendly brands that prioritize sustainability.

4. Pack Reusable Containers
   Ditch single-use plastic by packing snacks in reusable containers or beeswax wraps. Not only will you reduce waste, but you’ll also keep your food fresher for longer.

5. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
   A reusable water bottle is an essential part of any walking holiday. Many trekking areas have refill stations, so you can stay hydrated without contributing to plastic pollution.

6. Practice Responsible Hiking and Leave No Trace
   On women’s walking holidays, especially in pristine natural areas, it’s crucial to leave no trace. Take all your rubbish with you, stay on designated trails to protect the environment, and avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. If toilets aren't available, go at least 100 meters from trails, water sources, or campsites, and use a trowel to bury waste. Always pack out what you bring in, including toilet paper. Being mindful helps keep nature beautiful for everyone.

7. Support Local and Sustainable Businesses
   When choosing accommodations and activities, seek out local businesses that prioritize sustainability. This helps support the community and encourages eco-friendly tourism practices.

8. Embrace Trail Etiquette
   Walking holidays are not just about reaching the destination but also enjoying the journey. Be courteous to others, keep noise to a minimum, and take time to appreciate the natural sounds around you.

9. Train and Prepare
   Before setting out on a big hike, ensure you’re physically prepared. Walking holidays can be demanding, so make sure you’ve done the necessary training to enjoy the experience without putting yourself or others at risk.

10. Offset Your Travel
    Look into ways to offset your carbon footprint. Planting trees or supporting conservation projects can make your journey more sustainable and positively impact the areas you love exploring.

At GirlsTrek, we offer women's walking holidays that incorporate all these principles. Our pre-trip briefings cover everything from packing the right gear to selecting sustainable food options. We handle the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying nature and connecting with like-minded women. Our goal is simple: to experience the beauty of the outdoors while leaving nothing but footprints behind.