Simple Ways to Give Back During Your Travels
“Travel makes one modest, you see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.”
Technology seems to be making our world smaller and smaller. However, I feel that travel still shows firsthand where we fit into this “shrinking” world and responsible travel can make a positive impact on the communities you visit. Simple choices. I am listing easy ways to give back within your given itinerary. These are pretty obvious, but sometimes a little reminder is helpful. Of course, entire trips can be catered to service such as volunteer programs or charitable tour operators.
These are my honest opinions and recommendations — I do not receive any compensation or discounts during our travel. This story does include some affiliate links for which I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please click the links to support my blog.
1 | Hire local guides, lodge owners, drivers, etc.
Take the time to find locally owned and operated companies. Ask your hotel, lodge, or condo rental for a recommendation if you can’t find it online. I also like to make sure that tour companies use local guides. I have found that many of these businesses also give back to their communities. Even better!
We have fond memories of local guides during our travels. And you will gain such a rich experience in return.
2 | Pack a bag of donations or supplies
PACK FOR A PURPOSE. If you are going to a poor or underserved country this is a wonderful way to “give back” during your trip. One of your tours or lodges may even list a charity they support — making it easier to know how to help. When in doubt, we bring gently used or new soccer jerseys, balls, and cleats.
- Mas Adventures in Nicaragua supported the local children so we brought along two bags of baby clothes and some school supplies.
- Belize Shuttle by William donated a portion of each ride to help feed local school kids. Our confirmation document stated that school supplies can be hard to get, so we brought two suitcases full of school supplies.
- Sun-Trails in Morocco donated 1% of their receipts towards supporting education for girls in rural Morocco. We also brought school supplies and personal care items for the housekeeping staff along the way.
Note: You may get questioned at airport Immigration when traveling with donation items. However, we have never had a problem once explaining that the material was to donate and not to sell.
3 | Pick up litter on beaches and trails
Make this task easy by packing extra garbage bags and work gloves. You will be doing good for the environment and the local community!
4 | Travel off-season
Why are you hiking to the top of a Mayan ruin in the rain? Remember that traveling off-season brings income to locals who may otherwise be struggling in the non-peak months. And, you are likely benefitting from off-season pricing and fewer crowds. It’s a win-win!
