Luxurious eco-resorts for rest and relaxation? Check. Remote nature hikes for the adventurous traveler? Check. Philanthropic travel for environmental conservationists? Check. Vacations that tread lightly on the earth are all the rage, and options range from budget-friendly rustic backpacking trips to luxurious resorts with such amenities as a swim-up bar. Read on for a sampling of eco-friendly itineraries, travel services, and green tips to help you blend sustainability with serious relaxation.
For travel packages to bonafide green destinations, book your travel through companies that scour the globe to find green destinations like the Good Travel Company, or Responsible Travel. Even Orbitz, the online travel mega-site, has a section devoted to green destinations.
If you want the satisfying feeling of doing good while getting out of your daily routine, try a volunteer vacation. Hundreds of these trips exist; volunteer on an organic farm anywhere in the world through World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, or help restore hiking trails with the American Hiking Society. Also, many environmental organizations sponsor tours that you can be sure are eco-friendly. To travel with eco-experts, book a trip to one of the Sierra Club’s global destinations or find a local environmental organization upon your arrival.
Finally, don’t leave home without offsetting your trip, what you do on your vacation can be eco-friendly, but how you get there can warm the planet. Offset the emissions of your plane, train, and car travel with organizations like Terrapass or carbonfund.org.
Kimberly Wilson
- Earth Science - April 17, 2026
- Sweed Beauty - April 17, 2026
- Farmhouse Fresh - April 17, 2026