How to become a more eco-conscious traveller

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There's no denying that the effects of climate change are being seen more and more across the globe.

These days, Australians are trying to live a more environmentally conscious life - shifting to reusable straws, buying Fairtrade products and generally being more aware of how their lifestyle impacts the environment, including how they spend their holidays.

Travelling can be tough on the environment, but it doesn't have to be; there are ways to travel in an eco-friendly way without sacrificing your comfort or convenience.

You don't need to give up your love of travel or compromise on comfort just because you want to do something good for the planet.

There are plenty of ways to make your trip more eco-friendly. You could try taking the train or bus instead of flying, staying in local accommodation rather than hotels, or even renting bikes to get around a city rather than using cars.

A few small changes made now can help reduce pollution and preserve the world for future generations.

The first step towards an eco-friendly holiday begins before you even leave home. There are many products you can pack that are made from recycled materials or natural fibres that are not only good for the environment but also of great quality too.

Think twice about everything you pack from your snorkelling equipment to your clothing and try to adopt a sustainable focus.

Try to pack eco-friendly solutions like organic cotton towels, reusable water bottles, bamboo toothbrushes, recycled products and more.

Stay somewhere sustainable by seeking out eco-friendly hotels and other forms of accommodation.

Seek out hotels that have taken steps to reduce their carbon footprint by using eco-friendly construction materials and energy-efficient appliances, reducing water usage, recycling or composting their waste and having green practices throughout the property from food preparation to housekeeping services.

It is an old saying, but it rings true more than ever today. Be respectful of the environments that you visit and leave nature preserved for the next generation of travellers to enjoy.

When you are carving a trail through beautiful scenery away from civilisation, remember to take any rubbish back with you and try to use reusable drink and food containers to minimise your impact on the environment.

Select companies that give you an option to offset your travel. This means your carbon footprint will be offset by tree-planting operations and other eco-friendly projects around the world.

It is only a small price to pay to help mitigate the impacts of harmful emissions caused by cars, trains and planes.

Sometimes you might crave food or drink that reminds you of home when you are on the road, but these products need to be exported and shipped and come with a heavy carbon footprint.

By enjoying the best local beers, foods, wines and cheeses you not only get a true taste of the country you are visiting, but you are helping to limit shipping operations that produce high volumes of harmful emissions.

Smaller groups tend to have less of an environmental impact, so travel with a small group tour operator that's environmentally responsible.

Find a tour operator that is committed to sustainable tourism practices and ensuring clients have an enjoyable experience while minimising their impact on the natural environment.

Hopefully, this guide inspires you to make the changes necessary in your life and travel habits so that we can all do our part for improving the environment.

With these easy steps, it's now possible for everyone to enjoy their trips while minimising their impact on nature.