As divers, we’re naturally drawn to protecting the environment – but that doesn’t mean we can’t explore it. To travel responsibly is to make conscious choices that minimise your footprint and maximise your positive impact.
Pack with purpose
Travel light to reduce fuel consumption, especially when flying. Bring only what you need and pack reusable items such as water bottles, coffee cups and utensils to avoid single-use plastics. In remote areas where waste facilities may be limited, always take your trash home with you.
Choose eco-friendly toiletries – solid shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets and bamboo toothbrushes reduce plastic waste. Refillable containers and reusable shopping bags or food wrappers are simple changes that make a big difference.
Fly smart – Travel Responsibly
Air travel has a high carbon cost, but you can reduce your impact. Choose non-stop flights, fly economy and offset your emissions through airline programmes that fund clean energy or reforestation projects. Use public transport to and from the airport where possible, and avoid single-use plastics on board.
Some airlines are more fuel efficient than others – support those that make sustainability a priority.
Don’t dive or travel without insurance
Travelling or diving without insurance is irresponsible – it puts others at risk if you need emergency treatment or evacuation and can’t pay. Many destinations require proof of insurance, and rightly so. If you’re uninsured, you could become a burden on the local health system or your own family.
Whether it’s a minor incident or a life-threatening emergency, diving and travel insurance ensures you’re covered and helps protect the places and people that host your adventure.
Get your DiveAssure coverage here!
Respect your destination
Respect local waste disposal regulations, conserve water and energy, just because in your country clean water isn’t scarce and you don’t need to save, doesn’t mean it is the same everywhere, so make sure you are aware and mindful of the country that you are traveling to. Stick to designated paths when exploring to ensure that you do not do anything that is against local law as well as to avoid damaging any native plants or wildlife that you might not be aware of. Support the local economy by choosing local accommodation and guides, and buying souvenirs from local artisans, rather than at the airport or in large shopping chains.
Research local customs, dress codes and sacred sites before visiting. It is especially important to respect dress codes when visiting important religious sites so as to not offend the locals and their beliefs.
Always ask permission before photographing people and avoid using flash in sensitive areas.
Choose ethical operators
Book with tour companies that prioritise sustainability and employ local staff. Avoid touching marine life, and don’t support tour operators that allow touching or feed wildlife to attract it. Stay away from the reef, dont step on corals and do your best not to cause any damage to the reefs. Follow responsible diving guidelines. Keep noise to a minimum in quiet areas and never remove natural or cultural artefacts.
Stay informed & get involved
Support marine conservation by donating or volunteering. Keep up to date with local dive site rules and protected areas. Be aware about what products can and cannot be brought into the country. Some countries that are dealing with pollution issues have banned single use plastics and/or polluting, non-reef safe sunscreens. Make sure you “know before you go”. Educate yourself and others about marine conservation and sustainable diving practices.
