Holidays are about switching off, spending time with loved ones, and making memories. But they can also be heavy on emissions - from flights to accommodation to the food we eat on the road. The good news? With a little planning, you can enjoy a great trip while treading lighter on the planet.
Here are five tips (with ideas for different budgets) to get you started.
1. Rethink Your Travel Mode
Transport is often the biggest part of a holiday’s carbon footprint.
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Budget-friendly: Take the train or coach—both are affordable and low-emissions ways to explore Australia. A rail trip from Sydney to Melbourne or Brisbane is cheaper than flying, and the views are far better than an airport lounge.
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Mid-range: Carpool with friends or family to cut down on both costs and emissions.
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Splurge: Hire an EV for a road trip (or even better borrow a friends or families EV for a longer than usual test drive:) . Australia’s charging network is expanding fast, making it easier than ever to explore electric.
2. Choose Low-Impact Destinations
Where you go can make a big difference.
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Budget-friendly: Camping in national parks or staying in eco-hostels puts you close to nature with minimal footprint.
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Mid-range: Book local B&Bs or family-run stays instead of international chains, they often support local economies and use fewer resources.
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Splurge: Eco-lodges and certified sustainable resorts are becoming more common in Australia, offering comfort without the high carbon cost.
3. Pack Smart & Light
Less luggage means less fuel used in transport and it's less hassle for you.
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Bring reusable water bottles, cutlery, and shopping bags to cut down on single-use plastics.
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Pack clothes you can layer and re-wear instead of over packing.
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If you’re flying, lighter bags mean the plane uses less fuel - every kilo counts.
4. Eat Local & Seasonal
Food miles add up quickly on holiday.
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Budget-friendly: Visit local farmers’ markets or cook simple meals with regional produce.
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Mid-range: Dine at local cafes and restaurants that showcase seasonal ingredients.
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Splurge: Treat yourself to farm-to-table dining experiences or winery tours that prioritise local, low-impact produce.
5. Slow Down & Soak It In
The faster and further you travel, the higher the emissions.
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Budget-friendly: Plan a “staycation” close to home - rediscover local hikes, beaches, and hidden gems.
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Mid-range: Choose one region to explore deeply instead of hopping between multiple destinations.
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Splurge: Extend your trip instead of taking multiple short getaways - one longer, slower holiday can be more relaxing and lower impact.
Final Thought
Whether you’re camping in a national park, road-tripping in an EV, or relaxing at an eco-resort, there are low-emissions options for every budget. With a little intention, your holiday can leave you refreshed—without leaving a heavy footprint.
Have you got any other tips that you would recommend to our readers? We would love to hear them email [email protected]