How To Have A Sustainable Honeymoon

Green weddings and green honeymoons are on the rise. Many couples are thinking about a sustainable honeymoon, as the planet is at the forefront of our minds.

We’re firm believers that you should not feel guilty about your honeymoon travel. This is a once in a lifetime trip. Give yourselves permission to travel to places you’ve always dreamed about!

Yet, making small but meaningful choices can reduce the impact of your trip on the planet. If you are environmentally conscious and you’re concerned about what we are doing to our beautiful planet (and who isn’t in the times we live in!), let us help you reduce the environmental impact of your trip!

We can all make better choices. Here are our top tips for a sustainable honeymoon including our favourite sustainable honeymoon destinations!

Sustainable Honeymoon Tips

Keep it local and make it worthwhile

Ok, so we don’t think you have to stick with a staycation to have a sustainable honeymoon. However, choosing a destination on or near your own continent can significantly decrease the amount of air travel required, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

Live in Europe? Then consider exploring of the enchanting European or Middle East destinations. Live in Australia? The incredible destinations of Asia and the Pacific islands are (kinda!) right there.

In the USA or Canada? The Caribbean and Central America are outstanding (you get the picture)!

Of course, many couples dream of new and exotic destinations in a faraway land, so if your dream destination is across the other side of the world, make the long journey count and go for an extended period and maybe even make your trip a multi-destination honeymoon.

As many destinations are breaking under the weight of overtourism, another thing to consider is choosing a sustainable honeymoon destination.

Be wise about air travel

There are no sugar-coating things: air travel is a significant contributor to the climate crisis. But we don’t want you to think twice about your dream honeymoon, this once-in-a-lifetime bucket list trip.

With a few mindful choices, you can still enjoy air travel while minimizing your impact on the environment.

Consider booking an economy class or premium economy ticket over business or first class is one of the first steps in planning a sustainable honeymoon.

This may not seem like a big deal, but premium cabins take up more space, which means airlines must fit fewer people on each flight.

By choosing a more modest seat, you’re doing your part to reduce the carbon footprint of your journey. Choose to fly directly where possible, with airlines that use newer, more fuel-efficient planes.

We also suggest researching companies that offer carbon offsetting options. However, it’s important to note that carbon offsetting may not be a perfect solution and there is research that shows that carbon offsetting is greenwashing.

However, one of our favourite ways to support the environment is by planting native trees in your country. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, making them an effective way to mitigate the environmental impact of air travel.

Some of our favourites are TreeSisters (Global), Wolfgang Reforest (Ireland), Trees for Life (Scotland), Woodland Trust (England) and Reforest Now (Australia).

Choose an ethical place to sleep

For couples who want to make sustainable honeymoon choices, accommodation is where you have more power.

The jury is out on private rentals vs hotels. While we’re partial to the occasional Airbnb stay, hotels support local jobs, whereas private rentals can contribute to housing crises in cities around the world, so it’s important to consider the impact of your choices.

Whatever you decide, there are many ways to reduce your environmental impact when it comes to accommodation.

Simple actions like reusing towels and turning off lights, TVs, and air conditioning when you leave the room can make a big difference.

Booking.com has a feature where you can filter Travel Sustainable properties, for example. Look for hotels that use locally sourced produce, shun plastic, support local charities, and protect the surrounding marine systems.

Choosing accommodations with energy-efficient appliances and using renewable energy sources can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your sustainable honeymoon.

Another option to consider is eco-resorts or eco-lodges, which focus specifically on sustainability and environmental conservation.

These properties often have a smaller footprint, might use renewable energy sources, and prioritize sustainability in all aspects of their operations. They are an excellent choice for couples who want to enjoy a luxurious, sustainable honeymoon.

Pack mindfully

Packing environmentally friendly products can make a big difference in having a sustainable honeymoon.

We recommend bamboo toothbrushes and reusable cotton pads. Packing refillable water bottles, reusable straws, menstrual cups, and reef-friendly sunscreens are all excellent choices that can help reduce waste and limit the environmental impact of your trip.

Choose high-quality luggage that will last you for years. Avoid purchasing cheap, disposable luggage that will end up in a landfill after just a few uses. Opt for durable, sustainable options made from materials like recycled plastic or natural fibers.

Of course, it’s so nice to have some new things for your honeymoon but maybe reconsider that huge fast fashion haul and choose to buy clothing and accessories that may last you a few anniversary holidays at least!

Invest in timeless, like-new pieces from re-sellers like Vestiare Collective, Depop and eBay for a stylish sustainable honeymoon.

These platforms offer a wide range of pre-loved or never-worn clothing. By choosing pre-loved, you can reduce your environmental footprint and support a more circular economy.

Another way to pack mindfully is to bring a reusable tote bag or backpack for shopping and excursions. This can help reduce the amount of single-use plastic bags you use while on your honeymoon.

If you’re going on a honeymoon road trip, consider bringing your own reusable cutlery, napkins, and food containers to limit waste and avoid disposable items.

Finally, be sure to dispose of any waste properly during your trip. Avoid littering or leaving trash behind and choose accommodations that have recycling programs in place.

By making small, mindful choices while packing and traveling, you can really make a difference on your sustainable honeymoon.

Get around in a green way

Here at The Honeymoon Guide, we absolutely adore rail travel. Choosing sustainable transport options is a great way to have a sustainable honeymoon.

While air travel is necessary for longer journeys, consider using public transportation like trains or buses to get around at your destination.

Getting around on public trains is a wonderful way to experience a destination, and rail journeys are a simple choice for a sustainable honeymoon.

When it comes to getting from the airport to your accommodations, look for eco-friendly options like airport trains or buses. Airport to city trains are often more convenient (and cheaper!) and they can help you start your honeymoon on a sustainable note.

Travelling with a group may not be for couples who want privacy and exclusivity. However, if you’re thinking of some adventure travel as part of your honeymoon, a small group adventure tour from a company like G Adventures is a great option.

They prioritize sustainability and care about the impact their guests have and can be a great way to pack lots in.

You get to support local communities while having a wonderful life-changing travel experience. Plus, you can also feel good about supporting responsible tourism!

Plan meaningful experiences

When planning a sustainable honeymoon, it’s important to consider sustainable travel experiences that benefit the local community.

While it’s understandable that couples may want to visit popular tourist destinations, and you definitely should see the Eiffel Tower, Petra and Table Mountain, we encourage you to also seek unique tours available that allow you to immerse yourself in local culture and support the local economy.

One of the best ways to do this is by choosing local guides who can show you the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path places of your chosen honeymoon destination.

They can tell you all about their community so that you have an even better appreciation for your chosen honeymoon destination. Not only will this give you a deeper appreciation for the local culture, but it also supports local jobs and helps to reduce the negative impact of tourism on the environment.

You may even pick up some insider tips, like the latest restaurants or bars that you can’t find online.

Consider taking a food tour, walking tour or a cycling tour. This is a fantastic, low-carbon way to explore your destination at a leisurely pace while taking in the sights and make your honeymoon more sustainable and authentic! Check out our friends at GetYourGuide.com who have many tours with local guides.

Eat & drink sustainably

When planning a sustainable honeymoon, we recommend a little forward planning and research on where to eat and drink during your trip.

By choosing locally owned restaurants and bars, you can not only reduce your environmental impact but also support the local economy and immerse yourself in the culture of your destination.

Choosing local restaurants and markets also means that you are supporting local growers and fishers, which helps to sustain the local economy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting food from other areas. Plus, you get to discover unique and authentic dishes.

Another great way to immerse yourself in local cuisine is by taking a cooking class. Many small businesses offer these classes, which not only give you the opportunity to learn new recipes and cooking techniques but also support the local economy.

By taking a cooking class, you can gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and food traditions. You may even discover something new you can recreate at home, so in years to come will take you back to your newly wedded bliss!

Shop consciously

During your honeymoon, you may find yourself on the hunt for souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home (or just wanting to buy some nice things for each other).

Avoiding mass produced souvenirs and instead, buying locally made goods has such a tremendous impact on the local economy, supporting small businesses and communities.

By purchasing products that are made locally, you can help to sustain the local economy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods from other areas.

Look for items that are handmade or designed by local artists and designers. Seek beauty products and food items from local creators and growers and handmade souvenirs and clothes, jewellery, homeware from local designers.

Look up the best local markets before you go, as they are a great place to start your search, as they often offer a wide variety of handmade goods and unique finds from local creators that you won’t find elsewhere.

Besides supporting local businesses, there are other ways to shop consciously during your sustainable honeymoon.

For example, you can look for products that are made from sustainable and durable materials or have eco-friendly certifications, such as organic cotton clothing or recycled glassware. Avoid products that come with excessive packaging.

By shopping consciously, you can make a positive impact on the environment and support the local community. Not only will you have unique and authentic items, they’ll be more meaningful in the years to come.

Help protect our wildlife

Most tourists are much savvier these days. Being conscious of your interactions with wildlife is so important for not only a sustainable honeymoon but to protect our planet’s wildlife.

While it may be tempting to participate in activities like elephant rides or swimming with dolphins, these experiences can be painful for the animals involved.

Riding elephants, for example, can be incredibly harmful and uncomfortable for the animals, and it is not a natural behavior for them.

Swimming with enclosed dolphins can also be stressful for the animals, who are often kept in small enclosures and trained to perform for tourists. Avoid companies who offer these activities, a little research can really go a long way.

If you’re planning a safari honeymoon, you can support conservation efforts. Seek activities and experiences that prioritize animal welfare and conservation efforts.

Book safari lodges and national parks are at the forefront of preventing poaching and habitat destruction.

There are other ways to appreciate and observe wildlife in their natural habitats. This might include taking a guided nature walk, birdwatching, or visiting a sanctuary or conservation center that prioritizes animal welfare.

By making ethical wildlife protection choices on your honeymoon, you can help to protect our majestic animals and support conservation efforts around the world.

Remember that your tourist dollars and how they’re spent can make a real difference in the fight against animal abuse, poaching and habitat destruction!

Sustainable Honeymoon Destinations

Costa Rica

When it comes to sustainable honeymoon destinations, Costa Rica always makes it to the top of the list.

The UN Environmental Agency declared this stunning adventure honeymoon spot the ‘Champion of the Earth’ in 2019.

The reason behind this is not just its commitment to decarbonizing its economy by 2050, but also because of its rejection of fossil fuel and reliance on renewable energy sources.

The people of Costa Rica are passionate about sustainability have dedicated their efforts to reversing and preventing deforestation, leading to protecting the 50% of the land that is lush forests and the designation of a quarter of the land as a national park.

To experience the best of Costa Rica’s biodiversity, we love this G Adventures adventure tour. Explore one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.

The beauty of Costa Rica lies in its breathtaking landscapes, including lush rainforests, rolling hills, pristine beaches, and active volcanoes. Couples can look forward to exploring beautiful Pacific and Caribbean beaches, as well as the roaring rivers that offer endless adventure activities.

From ziplining through the jungle canopy to swimming with wild dolphins or whale watching, you’ll be in adventure heaven. There is also so much choice for stunning honeymoon resorts, hotels and lodges.

With its dedication to sustainability, Costa Rica is undoubtedly one of our favourite destinations for a sustainable honeymoon. Find out more with our Ultimate Itinerary and Guide.

Slovenia

Slovenia, nestled between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, is a hidden gem that offers a unique, sustainable honeymoon experience.

It’s one of Europe’s best-kept secrets! In 2018, National Geographic declared Slovenia as the world’s most sustainable country, with an astounding 60% of its land covered in lush forests, making it a nature lover’s paradise.

For couples seeking a green European honeymoon destination, Slovenia is an ideal choice, with its vibrant capital city, Ljubljana, being named the greenest in Europe.

The city is brimming with eco-friendly attractions, including the Ljubljana Botanic Garden, which features over 4,500 plant species and is one of the oldest botanic gardens in Europe.

If you are an adventure-seeking couple, Slovenia offers a plethora of activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, rafting, and even glamping in the stunning Slovene Alpine and Julian Alps regions.

One of the must-visit destinations in Slovenia is Lake Bled, a pristine natural wonderland surrounded by mountains and forests.

Here, you can indulge in various activities, such as cycling, trekking, and fishing, or simply relax and take in the stunning views.

Despite having one of the shortest coastlines in the world, Slovenia’s Adriatic coastline is a hidden treasure that is worth exploring.

You can dip your toes in the crystal-clear waters, indulge in locally sourced seafood, and even combine your honeymoon with island-hopping in neighboring Croatia.

Apart from the abundant natural beauty and activities, Slovenia has absorbed the culinary influences of its neighbours so foodies can rejoice. Slovenia is also relatively affordable too, so ideal for outdoor lovers, planning a romantic budget-friendly honeymoon.

Slovenia is a fantastic, under-the-radar, sustainable honeymoon destination.

Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands should be at the top of any eco-conscious honeymooner’s bucket list!

This stunning archipelago, located off the coast of Ecuador, is all about breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and commitment to sustainability and conservation. A truly once in a lifetime bucket list adventure.

Thanks to the government’s strict regulations, tour operators must operate within the guidelines of the Galápagos National Park, ensuring that visitors have minimal impact on the islands’ delicate ecosystem.

Additionally, many hotels and resorts have implemented sustainable practices such as using solar energy and composting waste.

When planning your Galápagos honeymoon, it’s important to choose an ethical travel company that prioritizes community engagement and conservation efforts.

We recommend booking with reputable operators such as G Adventures, who work closely with locals to ensure that your visit has a positive impact on the community.

From playful dolphins and majestic whales and colorful marine life, the Galápagos Islands offer an unforgettable wildlife experience, amongst the best in the world.

The islands are home to many unique species of animals and birds, including penguins and iguanas.

It’s also a fantastic destination for nature lovers, with diverse flora and fauna to discover. Discover the iconic giant tortoises that Charles Darwin made famous.

When you visit the Galápagos Islands, your tourist dollars will directly support conservation efforts, making it an ideal honeymoon destination for eco-conscious couples.

With its pristine natural beauty, commitment to sustainability, and unforgettable wildlife experiences, we can’t think of a more memorable, sustainable honeymoon destination than the wondrous Galápagos Islands!

Botswana

We adore Botswana for a sustainable honeymoon. Embark on a unique and unforgettable safari in this Southern African gem.

The country boasts 40% of its land as protected, ensuring that there is an emphasis on preventing overtourism while preserving its natural beauty.

Botswana was also one of the first countries to introduce an Ecotourism Certification System, further emphasizing its commitment to sustainability.

Conservation and sustainability are at the core of Botswana’s operations, and all businesses prioritize their surrounding environment.

Many lodges in the country are constructed using natural materials and rely on solar energy for their power. Some lodges have eliminated plastic bottles and offer filtered drinking water on-site.

Botswana is home to the world’s most concentrated population of elephants, making it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are must-visit destinations, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the beauty of African wildlife up close.

Explore the Okavango Delta by mokoro canoe or on a walking safari, or take a thrilling game drive in Chobe National Park.

From its stunning landscapes to its abundant wildlife, Botswana offers a truly authentic African experience. You can also tag Botswana on to other destination in the region, like South Africa, Namibia and the incredible Victoria Falls. Botswana is a real African highlight.

Bhutan

Bhutan, a Himalayan kingdom nestled between India and China, is renowned for its unique concept of Gross Domestic Happiness, which is based on the four pillars of sustainable socio-economic development, environmental conservation, promotion of culture, and good governance.

One reason we feel happy when thinking about a sustainable honeymoon in Bhutan is its status as a carbon-negative country!

The government regulates tourism in Bhutan, so couples must book through official partners such as G Adventures or Six Senses. This approach ensures that visitors have local guides during their stay, and in turn, support the local communities that depend on tourism for their livelihoods.

Expect to be mesmerised by the stunning scenery, including snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and charming villages. Immerse yourself in the serene and fascinating Buddhist culture, explore historical wonders, and feel the warmth of the welcoming locals.

Bhutan’s commitment to sustainability, coupled with its unique approach to tourism, makes it a unique honeymoon destination and ideal for a sustainable honeymoon.

By exploring this beautiful country, you can support local communities while immersing yourself in a culture that places value on happiness and sustainability.

We really hope this information is useful as you plan this trip of a lifetime. Let us know in the comments if a sustainable honeymoon is important to you. If you’ve picked up more tips while wedding and honeymoon planning, we’d love to hear them!