nature, earth, sustainability

10 Ways to Travel Sustainably in Australia and Make a Difference

hands, earth, next generation

Sustainable travel, also called ecotourism or green travel, is about exploring the world with a lighter footprint—minimizing our environmental impact, supporting local communities, and preserving cultural heritage. This post will give 10 ways to travel sustainably that will help you make a difference in Australia.

Hi, I’m Vicki, and welcome to my Insightful Odyssey! Recently, I read an article from National Geographic November 2022, about sustainable travel and the role we all play in it. Yes I know I am late to the party!! With sustainable travel and over-tourism in the spotlight lately, it got me thinking—what kind of traveler do I want to be? I realized there’s definitely room for me to do better.

When I first set off on my travels, I was pretty focused on the destinations themselves—the excitement of exploring new places. Looking back, I didn’t give much thought to my impact or the footprint I was leaving. But now, I want to make choices that respect the places and communities I’m lucky enough to visit.

As I get ready to hit the road again, I’m feeling this urge to travel in a way that’s a bit kinder to the planet. But to be honest, it’s kind of overwhelming! Where do I even start? There’s so much to figure out, and it feels like a lot to take in all at once.

So, I’ve decided to break it down into three parts:

Come along with me as I try to work this out. Together, let’s explore how we can travel with a lighter touch—more intentional, more mindful, and hopefully a lot more sustainable.

Get Amongst It


Australia’s wild beauty and vibrant culture are unlike anything else in the world—but it’s up to us as travelers to keep it that way. Each choice we make on the road, at the campsite, and in local communities can leave an impact, for better or worse. This isn’t just about doing “less harm”—it’s about traveling in a way that actually gives back to the places we love.

Whether you’re heading off on a cross-country road trip or exploring a coastal town, there are simple actions you can take to protect the environment, support local communities, and make a positive difference along the way. So, let’s get amongst it! Here are 10 ways to make your travels count and show Australia the respect it deserves.

1. Leave Only Footprints

Hit the road, but don’t leave a trace. Pack up every bit of waste, clean up after camp, and let’s make sure the next traveler finds it just as beautiful. Better yet, leave it cleaner than you found it!

Close-Up Photo of Plastic Bottle

2. Travel Light, Travel Right

Bring only what you need. Lighten the load on your car to save fuel, skip the unnecessary gear, and make every kilometer counts. There is more space for memories and less for stuff.

3. Go Local or Go Home

Head to the markets, find that family-run café, and book with Indigenous-owned tour guides. Every dollar spent locally helps communities thrive and gives you an authentic taste of Aussie culture. You’re not just passing through—you’re part of the story. Sustainable travel in Australia can start at your first coffee of the day.

4. Drive Smart, Fuel Less

Ease up on the pedal, keep your tires in check, and get better mileage. Not only will you save on diesel, but a slower pace will also allow you to see Australia. It’s not a race; it’s an experience.

5. Stay Where Sustainability Matters

Choose accommodation that cares about the land as much as you do. Look for eco-certifications and places that support locals. These spots are committed to preserving the environment and your travel footprint.

6. Respect the Wild

Australia’s wildlife is pure magic, so let’s keep it that way. Watch from a distance, stick to marked trails, and leave habitats untouched. Admire the wild; don’t interfere. Please read my previous post on Tips on Managing Australia’s Wildlife

7. Ditch the Plastic

Bring a reusable water bottle, carry your own utensils, and skip the plastic bags. Keep our beaches, reefs, and bush, free from single-use plastic. A small change, but a massive impact.

8. Offset That Carbon

Got a long haul ahead? Calculate your footprint and offset those emissions with verified projects. Make each trip a little lighter on the planet.

9. Stay Curious and Stay Mindful

Ask questions, learn the local issues, and know how you can help. The more we know, the better we travel. Mindfulness isn’t just for meditating—it’s for exploring, too.

10. Get Amongst It and Set the Example in the Quest to be Sustainable

Every choice you make sends a message. Let’s be the travelers who inspire others to care for this amazing country. Let’s keep Australia’s magic wild, protected, and thriving for generations to come.

Australia offers some of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes and communities, but it’s up to us to keep them that way. Every decision we make as travelers—whether it’s how we pack, where we shop, or the speed at which we drive—can make a difference. Sustainable travel is more than just a trend; it’s about respecting the places we’re lucky enough to visit and doing our part to keep them pristine and thriving.

So let’s get out there and travel mindfully, supporting local, preserving the wild, and setting an example for others to follow. Together, we can help ensure Australia remains just as magical tomorrow as it is today. Here’s to making every journey count!