With the rest of the world just a click away, more people are setting off on global adventures every year. In the first seven months of 2024, there were 157 million inbound tourists globally, up from around 150 million the previous year. 

Going on holiday is exciting, but sometimes it's easy to forget how our travels might affect the places we visit. With overtourism on the rise, it's becoming even more important to think about how we explore new destinations. After all, the last thing you want is for your dream spot to lose its charm because of too many visitors or become completely closed off to tourists!

If you're unsure where to start, don't worry – we've got you covered. Read on to learn how to be a responsible tourist and make your next holiday a great experience for you and the locals.

What is a responsible tourist?

A responsible tourist travels in a way that respects the environment, cultures, and communities of the places they visit.

It's all about making choices that have a positive impact rather than causing damage to wildlife or increasing pollution. Whether it's by supporting nearby businesses, minimising waste, or respecting traditions, being a responsible tourist means taking steps to ensure your travels benefit the local community.

Why is responsible tourism important?

The rate we travel has increased in recent years, meaning responsible tourism has never been more crucial. In the first seven months of 2024 alone, an estimated 790 million tourists travelled internationally.

While it's easy to see why people might want to stretch their wings and see more of the world, this surge in travel has also raised some concerns about how visitors impact the places they visit. This is where responsible tourism comes into play.

Responsible tourism is important for many reasons, but it mostly:

• Helps preserve cultural and natural heritage — Respecting local traditions and protecting natural sites helps keep cultural landmarks in good condition for future generations to enjoy.
  
  
• Supports the local economy — Spending money at local businesses, like family-run restaurants and independent corner shops, helps boost the destination's economy and keeps the financial benefits of tourism within the community.
  
  
• Protects wildlife — High levels of tourism can impact native wildlife and their habitats. For example, in Queensland, high levels of beach development driven by tourism have been harming the Great Barrier Reef. Responsible tourism promotes choosing activities and locations that are less popular to reduce overdevelopment.
  
  
• Minimises environmental impacts — Responsible tourists reduce their environmental footprint by adopting more eco-friendly travel practices, such as reducing waste. This helps protect the environment, both from a climate change perspective and by avoiding polluting habitats.

Adapting your holiday plans to be more mindful can unlock a range of new experiences and contribute to the well-being of the destinations you visit. It's all about making conscious choices that benefit you and the local communities.

What are some examples of responsible tourism?

Worrying about becoming a responsible tourist might feel like the last thing you want to do when you're trying to relax and enjoy your holiday. However, there are actually lots of ways to practise responsible tourist behaviour, including:

• Investing in the local people and communities — Shop at local markets and choose local tour guides instead of big international companies.
• Opting for eco-conscious accommodation — Stay in hotels that prioritise sustainability, like using renewable energy, reducing non-recyclable waste and single-use toiletry products, and not cleaning your bedding throughout your stay to reduce their carbon footprint.
• Exploring non-popular areas — Visit lesser-known spots to help reduce the pressure on crowded tourist hotspots while discovering hidden gems.
• Avoiding taking 'natural' souvenirs — Resist the urge to collect rocks, shells, or plants from beaches and other natural sites to help preserve the local ecosystem.
• Not purchasing products made from animals — Each year, thousands of animal species are killed for souvenirs — including a shocking 150 million seahorses. Steer clear of buying items made from ivory, shells, bone, or any materials from endangered animals to avoid contributing to the problem.
• Walking vs taking public transport — Tourism-induced air pollution emissions are higher than those from any other service sector. So, whenever possible, explore on foot or by bike.
• Packing for 'zero waste' travel — Bring reusable tote bags, cutlery, and water bottles to minimise single-use plastics.
• Pack in, pack out — Commit to taking everything you bring with you when you leave, including rubbish. While that might sound off-putting, capsule luggage like our Packing Pods can help you keep waste separate from your belongings until you find a bin.

Is sustainable tourism and responsible tourism the same thing?

The rise in overtourism has created several movements to help combat the social and environmental damage created by visitors overseas.

While they're closely related, there are a few key differences between sustainable tourism and responsible tourism. Sustainable tourism mainly focuses on minimising the environmental impact of travel, like reducing waste and protecting natural habitats to keep destinations healthy for future visitors.

On the other hand, responsible tourism is a much broader approach that also emphasises respecting local cultures, supporting the local economy, and ensuring that your presence benefits the communities you visit.

What is overtourism?

Overtourism is when a destination gets more visitors than it can handle. In 2023, there were 1,305 million inbound tourists globally, up from 974 million in 2022 — a 33% jump in just 12 months. With numbers like these, it's no surprise that popular spots are often packed to the brim, making it harder to take that perfect holiday snap without accidentally photo-bombing.

When too many travellers head to the same place, it can lead to overcrowding, which puts a strain on local resources and even takes away some of the destination's magic for both visitors and locals.

Whether it's the busy streets of a famous city or the beautiful beaches of a tropical paradise, overtourism can dim some of the charms that make these places so special.

Why is overtourism happening?

There are several reasons why overtourism is on the rise, making some destinations feel more crowded than ever. Here are the main factors contributing to overtourism:

• Increased accessibility — Travelling has become easier and more affordable, with different price points to suit different budgets. Low-cost airlines, efficient rail networks, and affordable accommodation make it simple for more people to explore the world.
  
  
• The influence of social media — A staggering 75% of travellers take inspiration from destinations they see on social media. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok encourage followers to visit the same hotspots, boosting foot traffic in these areas.
  
  
• Lack of regulations — In many popular destinations, there aren't enough rules to manage the flow of tourists, leading to small towns becoming ‘overrun’. For example, the Austrian village of Hallstatt has a population of just 800 but regularly sees 10,000+ tourists per day! In response, locals have called for 5pm curfews on tour buses and a limit to the number of daily visitors.
  
  
• Aggressive tourism marketing — Everywhere you look, there are holiday ads and promotions encouraging people to book their next getaway. This constant marketing creates a fear of missing out (FOMO), pushing people to travel more often.
  
  
• Seasonal booms — Certain times of the year, like July and August, see a surge in sun-seekers heading to summer hotspots that’s almost double the number of tourists heading abroad in February and March. These peak seasons can lead to overcrowding as everyone wants to take their holidays at the same time.
  
  
• Cruise tourism — Cruise ships bring thousands of visitors to a single destination at once. For example, in 2023, Santorini received 1.3 million cruise ship passengers, far more than its infrastructure could handle.

What is the impact of overtourism?

Overtourism isn't just a buzzword — it's a serious issue that's leaving a visible mark on destinations around the globe. When too many visitors flock to the same spot, the effects can impact everything from the local culture to the environment.

Here's a closer look at some of the key impacts of overtourism:

• Overcrowding and congestion — Popular destinations can become so full that moving around becomes almost impossible. Think long queues at attractions, crowded public transport, and busy streets that make it difficult to enjoy your experience.
  
  
• Lack of cultural respect — With so many tourists visiting, some people may behave disrespectfully toward local traditions and landmarks. For example, accidentally damaging rock formations or posing inappropriately with statues.
  
  
• Resentment from the local community — Heavy tourism can lead to frustration among locals. In fact, 37% of Spanish locals believe tourism does more harm than good. When tourists disrespect local customs or damage property, it can sour the relationship between visitors and residents.
  
  
• Wear and tear — High footfall in areas like beaches and historic sites leads to significant wear and tear. This can degrade natural landscapes and historic structures, making them more expensive to maintain.
  
  
• Environmental consequences — Overtourism puts a strain on the environment. Increased waste, higher carbon emissions from transportation, and the depletion of natural resources are just a few of the environmental impacts.

What are some alternative destinations to avoid overtourism?

Although overtourism is a serious issue, it's not all doom and gloom!

Being a responsible tourist leads you to discover some fantastic hidden gems in less-travelled areas. By choosing alternative destinations, you not only enjoy a more relaxing holiday away from the crowds but also help reduce the pressure on over-visited spots.

Whether you're after a city break or a workcation, we've pulled together some great alternatives to popular destinations to help you travel responsibly:

Instead of Venice, try Bologna

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With its romantic canals and ancient streets, Venice is a popular getaway destination that sees 5.7 million visitors each year. The Italian city is undeniably stunning, but its popularity has led to crowded streets and strained local resources.

Bologna offers a similar charm with its rich history, canal system, and vibrant cultural scene without the overwhelming crowds. Here, you can enjoy delicious cuisine, explore historic architecture, and experience the lively university atmosphere that makes Bologna a great alternative and a chance to explore a lesser-known part of Italy.

Instead of Machu Picchu, try Choquequirao

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Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination for many backpackers, receiving 1.5 million tourists every year, but its popularity has led to significant wear and tear on the site. Choquequirao is a lesser-known Incan site that offers equally breathtaking views and fascinating history.

Trekking to Choquequirao provides a more immersive experience for those interested in exploring ancient ruins without the crowds. Visitors can take in the views at Apurimac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, look out for the illusive Andean Condor, and snap a quick picture next to the ancient llama-shaped rock formations found throughout the area.

Instead of Santorini, try Naxos

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Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets and picturesque villages, so it's no surprise that this island location attracts over 3.4 million tourists annually. However, because of this, it can be quite crowded, especially during peak season.

On the other hand, Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands, offers beautiful beaches, charming villages, and a more relaxed atmosphere. It's perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the Aegean Sea without the hustle and bustle, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and authentic local experiences.

Instead of Dubrovnik, try Split

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Dubrovnik has gained immense popularity, particularly after being featured in Game of Thrones. This has led to a huge spike in overtourism, with over 1.2 million tourists every year.

Split is a fantastic alternative with its rich history, picturesque waterfront, and lively markets. You can explore the Diocletian's Palace, relax by the sea, and enjoy the local cuisine in a less crowded environment, helping you make the most of your Croatian getaway.

Instead of Tokyo, try Fukuoka

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As one of the most famous cities in the world, Tokyo is no stranger to tourists. The city receives over 19 million visitors annually, which can be quite overwhelming.

Located on the opposite side of Japan, Fukuoka offers a more relaxed urban experience with its beautiful parks, temples, and delicious food. It's a great destination for those who want to experience Japanese culture and explore a city without having to fight their way through hordes of other tourists.

Instead of Reykjavik, try Akureyri

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Reykjavik is the gateway to Iceland's stunning landscapes, but its popularity has led to crowded attractions. The city receives over 1.7 million tourists each year, which can take away from it’s beautiful scenery.

If you're looking for a less-crowded alternative, Akureyri — known as the "Capital of North Iceland" — is a charming town surrounded by nature. It offers access to unique locations like the Goðafoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn, allowing you to explore Iceland's natural wonders in a more peaceful setting.

Instead of Sydney, try Hobart

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Sydney is a vibrant city filled with iconic landmarks, but it can be pretty busy, especially around the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Annually, the city welcomes 3.1 million visitors — making it one of the most-visited destinations in Australia.

Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, offers a more laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural scenery, historic sites, and a thriving arts scene. It's an excellent choice if you want to experience Australia's rural beauty without the intense crowds.

Travel responsibly with Trtl

As you plan your next holiday, remember that making responsible choices can have a positive impact on the places you visit.

And our Trtl Travel Pillow makes all the difference in helping you stay comfy on the go! No matter where you're headed, our pillow ensures you're well-rested and ready to explore responsibly.  For more inspiration on everything travel-focused, from tips for first-time backpackers to the most-asked travel queries, take a look at the Trtl Blog.