Travel New Year’s Resolutions for 2025: A Guide to Traveling Better

This year, let’s trade the whirlwind itineraries for deep dives. Stay a week (or three) in a single destination. Rent an apartment, shop at the local markets, and learn to say more than just “Hello” and “Thank you” in the native language. Not only does this approach cut down on the carbon footprint of excessive transit, but it also fosters a stronger connection to the culture. Slow travel isn’t just about seeing; it’s about truly being.

(When it comes to renting an apartment, there are plenty of ethical alternatives to Airbnb at VRBO, like Fairbnb.coop or Trusted Housesitters — a program I’ve belonged to for nearly four years.)

2. Support Local Economies

I know how tempting it is to get those automatic upgrades and perks that come with hotel brand loyalty. But if you can, this year try and skip it. Instead, hunt down the boutique hotel owned by the local couple with a story to tell. Supporting local economies means putting your travel dollars directly into the hands of the community—and trust me, it feels so much better than funding another CEO’s mega yacht.

From family-run inns to hole-in-the-wall restaurants, seek out businesses that are rooted in the destination. Whenever friends ask me about where to stay in Puerto Vallarta, my first suggestion is always Villa Mercedes Petit Hotel, a colorful and quirky boutique hotel in the Zona Romantica that has been in the family for more than a century. The location and service? Perfection. But knowing we are helping to contribute to the family history of this fantastic hotel is priceless. Travelers hold enormous power in shaping local economies, so let’s wield it wisely.

3. Pack Greener

If you’re still stocking up on travel-sized plastic toiletries, it’s time for a suitcase intervention. Green packing is not only trendy (who doesn’t love a sleek, reusable water bottle?), but it’s also a low-effort way to do a lot of good.

This year, swap single-use plastics for eco-friendly alternatives. A bamboo toothbrush here, a bar shampoo there, and voila! You’re reducing waste without sacrificing style. My favorite discovery of late? Travel-sized laundry detergent sheets—because packing fewer clothes and washing them on the go is both minimalist and sustainable.

4. Volunteer While Traveling

Travel can—and should—be more than just creating content. Volunteering adds depth to your adventures and lets you give back to the places that welcome you.

From teaching English to helping with conservation projects and even volunteering with rescue dogs, there are countless opportunities to leave a positive mark. The key? Do your homework and choose ethical programs that prioritize community needs over traveler convenience.

5. Skip the Bucket List, Embrace the Impact List

Here’s the thing about bucket lists: they often read like a greatest-hits album of overtourism. Instead of checking off clichés, create an “impact list.” This is all about seeking meaningful experiences that align with your values.

For me, that meant swapping overcrowded Split for Trogir, where I did a homestay, shopping at the weekly farmers’ market, and eating at the family-run seafood restaurants by the sea. Your impact list could include visiting destinations that are actively preserving their environment, attending eco-tourism festivals, or supporting indigenous communities. Trust me, it’ll make for far better stories than battling selfie sticks at the Trevi Fountain.

6. Respect Wildlife

Here’s a hard truth: if you’re riding elephants or posing with sedated tigers, you’re part of the problem. This year, vow to experience wildlife ethically. That means skipping exploitative attractions and opting for experiences that protect and respect animals in their natural habitats.

I’ll never forget the times I’ve visited sea turtle sanctuaries across Mexico. Watching baby turtles waddle toward the ocean is always pure magic, and knowing the program was helping boost dwindling populations made it even more special. Ethical wildlife encounters not only protect animals but also educate travelers on the importance of conservation. It’s a win-win.

7. Travel in the Off-Season

Who says you have to visit Paris in spring or Santorini in summer? Off-season travel is where the magic happens. Picture fewer crowds, lower prices, and locals who aren’t exhausted from the tourist hordes.

On a winter trip to Venice, I experienced a quiet, foggy city that felt like a movie set. No crowds, no jostling for gondola rides—just pure, undiluted Venetian charm. Off-season travel not only benefits you but also eases the strain on destinations during peak periods. It’s the ultimate win for travelers and locals alike.

8. Explore Closer to Home

Finally, let’s talk about the joy of the “staycation.” Exploring close to home might not sound as glamorous as jet-setting across the globe, but it can be just as rewarding. Plus, it’s undeniably eco-friendly.

This year, I’m making it a point to seek out hidden gems within a day’s drive. From sleepy seaside small towns to underrated historic mountain towns, there’s so much beauty to uncover without hopping on a plane. Not only is this kinder to the planet, but it’s also a reminder that adventure doesn’t have to come with a passport stamp.

The Bigger Picture

We’ve all seen the impact of overtourism: historic sites eroded by crowds, communities priced out of their own neighborhoods, and natural wonders trampled underfoot. The good news? Many destinations are starting to course-correct, prioritizing sustainable practices and local well-being over sheer tourist volume.

As travelers, we have the power to support these efforts. By embracing these New Year’s resolutions, we can help shift the narrative. Travel doesn’t have to come at the expense of the places we love; it can be a force for good.

So, here’s to 2025—a year of traveling better, smarter, and with a whole lot more heart. Let’s make it count.