5-Minute Read
Posted May 10th, 2025

Have you ever looked at a photo of a stunning landscape and felt like you were transported there, even if just for a moment? Travel photography has a way of connecting us with the world, showing us its beauty and diversity. But as travelers and admirers of these places, it’s important to think about how we can enjoy and protect them at the same time.

In this blog, I’ll share tips on how we can all embrace eco-friendly travel—whether you’re out exploring or simply appreciating the beauty of the world through photos.

The Beauty of Being a Thoughtful Traveler

Iceland is one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever visited, and one moment in particular really stuck with me. I was standing on a remote beach on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, walking along a pristine, white-sand shoreline. The ice-cold Arctic waves gracefully broke on the rocks and glided ashore, while jellyfish dotted the sand like tiny, glistening treasures. But what truly struck me wasn’t the waves or the jellyfish—it was the complete and utter absence of garbage. Not a single bottle cap, candy wrapper, or scrap of litter in sight. The beach was absolutely pristine.

I had noticed earlier in my trip just how clean Iceland was—whether walking through the streets of Reykjavík or driving along the countryside, litter was practically non-existent. Icelanders don’t just talk about loving nature; they live it. They care for it deeply, reinforced by strict laws that protect the environment. From hefty fines for littering and off-road driving to the country’s commitment to being carbon-neutral (and even working toward being carbon-negative), their respect for the planet is palpable.

But standing on that beach, two hours from the capital and completely alone, it really hit home. Iceland’s beauty isn’t just natural—it’s cared for. It made me think about beaches and trails back home, where garbage is sadly all too common. Whether it’s washed ashore or intentionally left behind, litter has a way of ruining the beauty of a place—and the photos we try to capture of it.

As travelers, it’s on us to do better. The old trail motto, “Pack it in, Pack it out,” isn’t just a saying; it’s a responsibility. We share this world with more than just other humans, and everyone deserves to experience nature’s beauty unspoiled. Taking a few extra seconds to clean up after ourselves—or even pick up someone else’s mess—can make all the difference. After all, nothing ruins a perfect shot like garbage.

How to Travel (and Appreciate) Sustainably

Whether you’re exploring the world in person or admiring its beauty through photos, here are some simple ways to be a more thoughtful traveler:

1. Support Local Communities
   Think about how you can give back to the places you love. Buy from small businesses, stay in locally owned accommodations, and celebrate the culture and traditions that make each destination unique.
2. Respect Nature
   If you’re out exploring, tread lightly—stick to marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out what you pack in. And if you’re enjoying photos from home, take a moment to appreciate the effort that goes into capturing those moments without harming the environment.
3. Choose Sustainable Products
   Small choices can make a big difference. Whether it’s using a reusable water bottle, opting for eco-friendly travel gear, or supporting sustainable brands, every little bit helps.
4. Spread Awareness
   Share your love of the planet with others! Whether it’s through a conversation, a social media post, or encouraging someone to appreciate the world’s beauty, you can help inspire others to care for the planet.

A Personal Take: Small Actions, Big Impact

One of the most rewarding parts of embracing sustainability is seeing how small actions can inspire others. On a recent trip, I started picking up litter along a trail, and before I knew it, others had joined in. It’s a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference, no matter how small it might seem.

Celebrate the World with Style

If you’re feeling inspired to travel more thoughtfully and leave a positive impact, why not carry that mindset with you - literally? The Takeoff Tote Bag from my Merch Shop is the perfect companion for your next adventure. Check it out here!

This durable, eco-friendly tote is spacious enough to carry all your essentials, whether you’re heading to a local market, packing snacks for a hike, or even picking up litter along the way (because thoughtful travelers always leave a place better than they found it). Plus, its stylish design makes it a great everyday bag, reminding you of your love for the planet even when you’re not on the road.

By choosing sustainable accessories like the Takeoff Tote Bag, you’re not just making a practical choice -you’re making a statement about the kind of traveler you want to be. Let’s celebrate the world’s beauty and do our part to protect it, one small step (or tote) at a time. 🌍✨

Next Week on the Blog

Next Saturday at 11 AM PST, we’ll explore “How Travel Photography Brings the World to You.” We’ll dive into the magic of experiencing the world through photos, how they tell stories, and how they inspire wanderlust—even if you’re exploring from the comfort of home.