How to Enjoy Sustainable Travel to Topsail Island
Have you ever heard of sustainable travel? Sustainable travel refers to exploring the world in a way that minimizes negative impacts on the environment and local communities while maximizing positive contributions to their well-being. In other words, it’s traveling with the environment and your destination’s best interest in mind. Keep reading for a few tips for leaving no trace during your next Topsail Island vacation. According to National Geographic, there are four main pillars of sustainable travel concerning communities affected by over-tourism:
- Protecting the environment
- Addressing climate change
- Minimizing plastic consumption
- Expanding economic development
Let’s dive a little deeper into each of these pillars regarding your next Topsail Island vacation.
Protecting the Environment
As a 26-mile-long barrier island, there is so much to see, do, and enjoy on Topsail Island. Our community is filled with beauty, love, and locals whose livelihoods rely on our area resources, making protecting our environment a top priority.There are a few ways you can participate in sustainable, eco-friendly travel to Topsail Island and help us protect the environment while you’re enjoying our beautiful beaches. Here are several ideas:
Pack mindfully to reduce over-consumerism
If you don’t need it, don’t bring it. There’s no need to buy a ton of stuff that you’ll only use during your vacation. You probably already have everything you need at home to enjoy your beach vacation. Additionally, our vacation rentals are well-equipped with fantastic amenities and essential household items. You can also use one of the local beach services or rental companies for items needed for the beach.
Leave no trace on our beaches
Please do not leave trash or other items on the beach. If you dig any holes, be sure to fill them back in completely. When packing your beach bag, be sure to pack an extra bag for any trash you may have during the day. Always remember to leave the beach as you found it or better!
Book eco-friendly adventures
There are many locally owned nature tours and excursions available to showcase the beauty of our island without harming or disturbing its habitats. Consider one of these great outings during your next visit. We have a great blog post featuring eco-friendly and sustainable outings. Be sure to add one of these adventures to your vacation itinerary. Bookmark it here!
Did you know there is a sea turtle conservation operation right here on Topsail Island? Don’t miss the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center during your getaway.
Addressing Climate Change
When planning your Topsail Island vacation, one of the most important questions you’ll have to answer is how you will get here. People visit Topsail Island from all over the country. If you are flying into a nearby airport and renting a vehicle, consider a direct flight instead of one with stops. Aviation experts say that direct flights are more environmentally friendly than those involving multiple takeoffs and landings.
Minimizing Plastic Consumption
We are all aware that plastics and microplastics are a growing concern on land and in the ocean as well. There are numerous ways to reduce plastic consumption, not only in your daily life but also on vacation. You can start by packing reusable items.
- Ditch the single-use plastic water bottles you buy in cases from the grocery store and opt for reusable water bottles instead.
- Consider using glass straws instead of plastic straws.
- Instead of using paper towels, opt for washable, reusable cloth napkins.
- Swap plastic sandwich baggies for reusable zipper bags or beeswax paper. You can also trade out plastic wrap and tin foil with beeswax paper to keep food fresh.
- Bring a few cups and mugs from home to replace the plastic cups you’d typically buy at the store.
There are endless ways to replace plastic items with more sustainable options, so get creative! You can even make a little game out of it and see how far you can go.
Expanding Economic Development
Many families that call Topsail Island home rely on our economy for their livelihoods. There are several great ways to support our local community and families while enjoying Topsail Island.
Eat local
Topsail Island boasts a plethora of delicious, locally owned and sourced restaurants, all eager to serve you. Many of these establishments feature locally sourced seafood, meat, and other ingredients, making it a win-win for everyone.
Shop local
One of the best things about exploring a new vacation destination is checking out the locally owned shops and boutiques. There’s no shortage of those around here.
Use local services
Whether you would like to get your nails done, enjoy a relaxing massage, or rent items to enhance your vacation, there’s a local business ready to take care of you.
Another great way to support the local economy and Topsail Island businesses is to book your vacation rental directly with a local company vs an online travel agent like Airbnb or Vrbo. At Seashore Realty, we have local staff who are passionate about making your beach vacation dreams come true! Combined with our incredible selection of rentals, area expertise, and A+ customer service, we can offer the best in vacation rental properties on Topsail! Whether you are looking for an oceanfront home or a pet-friendly oasis, we have you covered.
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