However, there are a few common mistakes that many travelers make that can easily ruin their trip. To avoid these easy missteps, the travel experts at VIP Santorini gave us their best tips for what not to do on a Mediterranean cruise. 

Editor’s Note: This story was sponsored by VIP Santorini

1. Not Factoring Tendering Time at Ports

If your cruise ship arrives in a port at 11 a.m., you can schedule plans onshore starting at 11:05 a.m. Wrong. Many Mediterranean ports are too small to accommodate large cruise ships directly. Instead, passengers will have to take smaller tender boats to get to shore, which can add extra time for disembarkation and boarding. Be sure to allocate this additional time into your schedule. 

2. Booking Large Bus Tours in Small Towns

We can’t think of a worse way to see a charming Mediterranean village than through the windows of a large tour bus that barely fits down the town’s quaint, narrow, cobblestone streets. Most destinations you’ll visit on a Mediterranean cruise are best explored on foot or with a smaller group. If you sign up for a big bus tour, you might be packed in with 50 or more people and feel rushed. You’ll have to stick to a strict schedule and won’t be able to enjoy the charm of small towns—you’ll miss out on small restaurants and might not be able to visit attractions that can’t handle large groups.

Instead, book a private or small group excursion with a local tour operator who can take you to the hidden gems the large group tours bypass.

3. Falling into the Cruise Ship Excursion Trap

If you book your excursion through the cruise line, avoiding the mega-bus tours mentioned above is hard. A private or small group tour booked with a local provider like VIP Santorini will be better value and provide a better and more authentic experience. However, many cruisers are deterred by the fear-mongering warnings from the cruise line about long waits or missing the boat if they book independent excursions.

Don’t let the warnings scare you off—just make sure you allow plenty of time to get back to the ship before it departs. If you’re afraid you won’t make it off the boat in time for your tour, consider upgrading your ship reservation to a premium class for priority disembarkation.

4. Choosing the Wrong Itinerary 

Although the appeal of a Mediterranean cruise is that you get to see lots of different destinations in one trip, you want to be able actually experience those destinations. So, if you’ve always dreamed of visiting Santorini, don’t choose a cruise itinerary that only stops there for a few hours. You’ll feel rushed and like you didn’t get a true taste of the destination. Make sure you read the cruise’s itinerary carefully before booking, and look for cruises with full-day stops (i.e., the ship will be docked from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.) at the destinations that are most important to you.

5. Not Eating Off the Ship

One of the perks of traveling on a cruise is the all-you-can-eat buffet, but save some stomach space for dining off-ship. Shipboard meals are convenient, but tasting the local cuisine is an essential part of travel you don’t want to deprive yourself of.

When you’re onshore, visit local restaurants and markets to immerse yourself in the authentic food culture. VIP Santorini recommends trying the following Mediterranean classics:

• Greek salad
• Olive oil
• Cheese
• Wine
• Spirits, including ouzo or raki

6. Packing the Wrong Shoes

Visiting many Greek destinations, including Athens and the islands, involves significant amounts of walking. You’ll need to be prepared for cobblestone streets, steep hills, and uneven pathways. If you’ve packed uncomfortable shoes or flimsy flip-flops, you won’t be able to explore as much as you hoped and might wind up back at the ship earlier than planned, nursing blisters or sore feet. 

Pack comfortable shoes that are well-broken-in and can handle uneven terrain and many miles. 

Bonus Insider Tips: Santorini & Athens

The experts at VIP Santorini have years of on-the-ground experience across the Mediterranean. Here are their insider tips for visitors to two of the most popular Mediterranean cruise destinations, Santorini and Athens.

Santorini Travel Tips

The old port in Fira, Santorini, is separated from the main town by a steep climb, so be prepared. There are three main options to get from the old port into town:

1. Cable car: Quick and efficient, but expect lines during peak hours.
2. Walking: It is a steep climb up over 600 stairs to reach the town from the old port. Be prepared for a strenuous workout, and also expect to share the stairs with donkeys.
3. Donkey rides: A controversial choice that animal welfare advocates advise against.

Walking in the Villages

Narrow cobblestone paths connect the picturesque villages of Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli. Exploring these iconic towns means navigating many stairs and uneven surfaces. Take your time, wear breathable clothing, and carry water, especially in the summer heat. 

Recommended Service in Santorini

For a reliable and excellent experience in Santorini, consider using VIP Santorini. They offer tailored tours and transfers, allowing you to explore the island’s stunning landscapes and traditional villages comfortably and at your own pace.

Athens Travel Tips

Athens is a mix of ancient ruins and bustling urban streets. Walking to landmarks like the Acropolis, Plaka, and Monastiraki markets requires stamina.

Tips for Visiting the Acropolis:

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip—some pathways around the ruins can be slippery.
• Morning visits are less crowded and cooler, making the climb more enjoyable.

Key Items to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes (preferably closed-toe for uneven paths).
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Light layers: The weather can vary between sunny afternoons and breezy evenings.

The post 6 Mistakes Not to Make on Your Mediterranean Cruise appeared first on SmarterTravel.

One of my biggest pet peeves when I am flying is people who cannot follow the rules when it comes to boarding (and disembarking, for that matter). I was thrilled to see that American Airlines is on my side and is testing a new boarding process technology that will crack down on people who try to board earlier than their assigned boarding group. 

The new technology will create an audible alert to the boarding agents, letting them know the passenger is boarding earlier than their boarding group. Agents will then (presumably) ask the passenger to step aside and wait for their correct boarding time. According to a report by CBS News, “gate agents still retain some discretion over the boarding process.” In other words, if they get the alert, it is up to them to decide whether you must wait to board. If you are traveling with a group and have a later boarding group than everyone else, they may let it slide (but they may not!) 

After testing the new protocol at three airports (Albuquerque International, Tucson International, and Ronald Reagan Washington National), they are expanding to 100 airports nationwide before the Thanksgiving travel rush. Julie Rath, American’s Senior Vice President of Airport Operations, Reservations and Service Recovery said in a statement that they’ve heard from their customers “that the ability to board with their assigned group is important to them because it’s a benefit associated with their AAdvantage status or fare purchase,” and that “the initial positive response from customers and team members has exceeded our expectations, so we are thrilled to leverage this technology to deliver for them ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.”

The airline states that “the new technology is designed to ensure customers receive the benefits of priority boarding with ease and helps improve the boarding experience by providing greater visibility into boarding progress for our team.” 

Airports included in the expansion are Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), which is the busiest airport in the country.

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Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington D.C.

All Kimpton hotels offer a nightly complimentary wine hour for guests, a tradition that was started at the brand’s first hotel in San Francisco in 1981. Kimpton’s founder, Bill Kimpton, wanted guests to “feel a sense of community and inclusion, and relax at the end of the day.” 

At the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington, D.C., the tradition continues strong, and the happy hour is held in a warm and welcoming communal space that encourages guests to socialize. 

Book Here

Virgin Hotels Chicago

Join Virgin Hotels’ free loyalty program, The Know, and you’ll get more than just reward points. The Know members get a free Spirit Hour at Virgin Hotels, which includes beer, wine, and cocktails. 

At the Virgin Hotels Chicago, the happy hour is held on the rooftop bar, so guests can enjoy epic views with their free drinks.  

Book Here

Kimpton George Hotel, Washington, D.C.

The Kimpton George Hotel puts a local spin on the brand’s famous wine hour, offering themed beverages based on holidays, seasons, or special occasions. Guests who stayed at the George during cherry blossom season, for example, were able to indulge in free cherry cordial and sake cocktail during happy hour.

Book Here

Hotel Lucia, Portland, Oregon

Home to over 80 breweries, Portland, Oregon is sometimes called the Craft Beer Capital. So it’s only fitting that the Hotel Lucia offers a nightly free craft beer hour for guests. Between 5:30 and 6:30 pm, the hotel’s bartenders will serve complimentary brews so guests can sample Portland’s best breweries without blowing their budget.  

Book Here

James New York NoMad

The James New York Nomad has guests covered from morning to night. The hotel’s lounge, the James Club, serves free coffee and breakfast snacks in the morning, and hosts a wine hour in the evening. 

The James Club is equipped with fast and free WiFi, so guests can take advantage of the drinks and snacks while working remotely if they choose. 

Book Here

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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According to their survey, the top fifteen countries to travel to in the world in 2025 are as follows: 

1. Iceland
2. Australia
3. Canada
4. Ireland
5. Switzerland
6. New Zealand
7. Germany
8. Norway
9. Japan
10. Denmark
11. Portugal
12. Spain
13. United Kingdom
14. Netherlands
15. Sweden

The Safest Country To Travel To This Year

Iceland, 2024’s number nine spot, takes the top spot this year. Thanks to the country’s only main road, car accidents are rare. Although it has a short shoulder season (part of October and part of April), traveling on shoulder season is unnecessary for an affordable vacation. Flights are usually fairly cheap from the US, and you can easily make it a stop-off on your way (or way back) from Europe on Iceland Air. While crime and accidents are rare, their ranking can fluctuate thanks to active volcanoes, making some years less safe than others. 

Methodology

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection came up with the list by surveying American travelers asking them to rate countries they had visited on safety. Those ratings were then combined with other data like the Global Peace Index and city-level safety scores to calculate an overall safety score for each country, creating a balanced score. 

Specific Travel Safety Categories

The survey given to American travelers also sought to rank countries on specific safety factors. These results differ from the overall safety results as they do not weight them with other data; they are strictly the opinions of the travelers. The top five countries in specific categories included: 

Safety from Violent Crime

1. Norway
2. Canada 
3. Australia
4. Ireland
5. Iceland

Safety from Terrorism 

1. United Arab Emirates 
2. Canada 
3. Ireland 
4. New Zealand 
5. Australia 

Transportation Safety

1. Canada 
2. Australia 
3. New Zealand 
4. Ireland 
5. Denmark 

Healthcare Safety

1. Canada 
2. Norway 
3. New Zealand 
4. Ireland 
5. Italy 

Women’s/LGBTQIA+/People of Color Safety

1. New Zealand 
2. Canada 
3. Ireland 
4. Australia 
5. United Kingdom 

The study also notes the differing results between demographics. For instance, Gen Z found Croatia, Ireland, and the Netherlands to be the safest, while Millennials ranked New Zealand, Canada, and Australia at the top. 

You can read the entire survey results here. 

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection provides insurance for trip cancellations, delays, baggage loss or delay, travel medical emergencies, and other travel-related risks. 

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Yesterday, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg announced that the automatic refund rule for airlines had gone into full effect, just in time for the holiday travel rush. 

In an announcement on Threads, Secretary Buttigieg stated that “passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them-without headaches or haggling.” 

Automatic Refunds for Flight Cancelations and Significant Delays

The new rule means that if a flight is canceled or significantly changed and the passenger does not accept the changed flight, a rebooking, or alternative compensation, the passenger will automatically get a refund without having to request one or go through hoops to try to get one. Please note that “significant delay” has not been defined by the DOT; it is up to the airline to discern what constitutes a significant delay, and it may change from case to case. 

Class of Service Change Refund

Occasionally, the aircraft needs to be changed, and sometimes, you may be downgraded from first or business class to economy. If that happens, you are now entitled to an automatic refund in the amount of the difference in the ticket price. 

Optional Service Fee Refund

If you prepaid for an optional service on board, such as WiFi, inflight entertainment, or seat selection, and your flight is canceled or the airline does not provide the service (sometimes the WiFi is out), you are entitled to a refund. Please note that you may need to notify the airline that the service is not working. 

Significantly Delayed Baggage Return Refund

Passengers who file a mishandled baggage refund are entitled to a refund of their checked baggage fee if the bags are missing twelve hours after a domestic flight’s arrival or fifteen or thirty hours after an international flight’s arrival at the gate, depending on the length of the flight. 

Exceptions to the Automatic Refund

As with everything, there are exceptions to this rule. Situations not included are:

1. You purchased a non-refundable ticket. (there are exceptions to this, as airlines may decide to refund you even if you have a non-refundable ticket). 
2. You cancel a trip due to a personal issue. 
3. You are unhappy with your experience with the airline. 
4. Incidental expenses, such as hotel rooms, rental cars, and meals, are accrued because the flight was canceled or delayed. 

How To Get A Refund For Your Canceled Flight

If you believe you are entitled to a refund, contact the airline in writing about your refund and the situation surrounding the request (canceled flight, significant delay, etc.). You should receive a refund within a reasonable amount of time—within seven days for flights booked with a credit card and within twenty days for flights booked using cash or check. If the airline refuses your refund request, you should file a complaint with the DOT.

The post New Airline Automatic Refund Rule Takes Effect: What Travelers Need to Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Let Flight Deals Decide Your Destination

If you don’t have your heart set on a specific destination, you can save a ton of money by letting flight deals influence where you travel to. You’ll be able to fly for even cheaper if you can be flexible on the dates you travel as well.

Google Explore is a great tool for finding amazing flight deals across the globe. You can put in your home airport and travel dates (which can be specific dates or as broad as a “one week trip in the next six months”) and you’ll see a map showing cheap flights to a wide range of destinations. 

Explore Alternative Modes of Transportation

Flying may seem like the fastest way to travel between destinations, but when you factor in getting to and from the airport, waiting in security lines, and checking in, sometimes other modes of transportation can turn out to be quicker—and cheaper.

Before you book a flight to get to your next destination, check out Rome2rio. The site will show you all of the available options for transportation between two spots, including buses, ferries, flights, and driving. It’s especially useful if you’re looking to book a multi-destination trip. 

Pick Destinations Where the Dollar Goes Further

It’s easy to spend less when you travel somewhere where the dollar goes further. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to see how pricey a destination is before you travel. Known as the Big Mac Index, this list ranks countries by how cheap a standardized item is to purchase. The list uses McDonald’s Big Mac hamburger as the comparison item, as it’s something that’s available in almost every country in the world. 

Avoid Unnecessary Fees

Inflation is bad enough—don’t make your trip more expensive than it already is by paying foreign transaction fees. These are sneaky fees (up to 5% of the purchase price) that many banks and credit card companies charge consumers for using their credit or debit cards abroad to pay in foreign currency. 

There are plenty of options for cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees (or even ATM fees), so be sure to use one when you travel—Capital One, for example, doesn’t have foreign transaction fees for any U.S.-issued credit cards.

Price Out the Whole Trip Before You Book

Find an amazing flight deal? Make sure you quickly check prices for your entire trip before you press “buy.” Any savings from the flight could be eaten up by the costs on the ground if you choose an expensive destination.

Price out the cost of a hotel, rental car (if needed), and average cost of meals to get a better idea of how much your trip will cost to be safe before you book anything non-refundable.  

The post 5 Money Saving Secrets for Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Inevitably, you’ll make a wrong turn, realizing your mistake only after walking for what feels like miles. The moment of truth comes when you reach a dead end or an emergency exit, forcing you to retrace your steps with embarrassment and annoyance. This scenario is particularly irritating when you’re already running late for a meeting or trying to catch a flight.

While getting lost in a hotel might seem like a trivial concern in the grand scheme of travel woes, these minor inconveniences can accumulate, adding unnecessary stress to what should be a relaxing or productive trip. The time spent navigating back to your starting point can throw off your entire schedule, not to mention the frustration it causes.

Fortunately, seasoned travelers have developed clever strategies to combat this common problem. One particularly ingenious trick recently gained popularity thanks to a TikTok video shared by flight attendant @allycase1 shared on TikTok. Her simple yet effective method has the potential to save countless travelers from the dreaded hotel hallway maze.

The hack is beautifully straightforward: upon first entering your hotel room, take a moment to place your shoes near the door, with the toes pointing in the direction of the elevator. This visual cue serves as a personal compass, instantly orienting you each time you leave your room. 

If you’re not comfortable leaving your shoes by the door, you could use other items as directional markers. A cup set to one side of the door or even a simple note with an arrow drawn can serve the same purpose.

The post This Simple Trick Will Make Your Next Hotel Stay Easier appeared first on SmarterTravel.

This regulation by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all airlines operating flights to, from, or within the United States to provide a full refund if passengers cancel their flight within 24 hours of booking. This applies even to non-flexible fares that normally don’t allow changes or cancellations.

Under the rule, airlines must refund the full fare to the original form of payment (not via a travel voucher or flight credit) if a ticket is canceled within 24 hours of purchase—even for nonrefundable fares.

How Can This Rule Save You Money?

Imagine you bought a plane ticket, and then the next day, the airline has a big flight sale and the price for your itinerary is now lower than what you paid. If it’s been less than 24 hours since you bought your ticket, you can simply cancel the ticket and then rebook at the lower price without worrying about change or cancellation fees. 

We recommend checking the price of your ticket a few times throughout the 24 hour period after you book to see if fares decrease—this strategy often pays off, and you’ll be able to rebook and save.

Knowing about the 24-hour rule can also give you peace of mind if you see an incredibly low fare that you want to jump on. Rather than waiting on approval from your boss for time off or for your travel companion to get back to you (and potentially missing out on that cheap flight), you can simply book the ticket, and if it doesn’t work out, cancel it within 24 hours for no penalty.

If you booked a ticket quickly, you can also take advantage of the 24-hour period to double-check the information on your reservation (like making sure you didn’t misspell a passenger’s name)—something that airlines could charge you to correct.

Important Exceptions to the Rule

There are three important exceptions you should know before taking advantage of the 24-hour rule.

1. This rule only applies if you’re booking directly with the airline. If you book through an online travel agency like Expedia, you’ll have to abide by the company’s refund policy (which is usually not as lenient.) 

2. Airlines can offer customers the ability to hold a fare for free for up to 24 hours instead of providing a refund within 24 hours. Be sure to check that the airline you’re booking with doesn’t offer this before you buy your ticket—for example, American Airlines offers a free 24-hour hold on select flights. If the airline does provide this service, you can still save money by putting the fare on hold and waiting to see if the price drops within 24 before you buy the ticket. 

3. The 24-hour rule only applies to flights booked at least seven days before departure, so know that you won’t be able to get a refund if you book a ticket less than a week before your flight.

How Do You Cancel Under the 24 Hour Rule?

You don’t need to do anything special to get your full refund when canceling a flight reservation within 24 hours. Simply cancel your booking as you normally would, and the airline should promptly refund your original form of payment. 

The post Everything You Need to Know About the 24-Hour Rule appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Check for Bedbugs

The very first thing you should do when you enter your hotel room is check for bedbugs. Put your luggage inside the bathroom (ideally in the bathtub), where bedbugs are the least likely to be hiding. Next, follow this easy guide to identifying signs of bedbugs. 

If your room does have bed bugs, you’ll want to know before you settle in, as these pests are extremely easy to pick up and carry with you to your new room—or worse, back home.

Check the Alarm Clock

In-room alarm clocks are being phased out of hotel rooms in favor of smartphone docking stations, but if your hotel room still has an old-school clock, make sure you check to see if the alarm is set. 

If the last guest set a daily alarm for 6 a.m. and never turned it off, you could be rudely awakened earlier than you wanted to. 

Better yet, unplug the clock entirely if possible. This will prevent unexpected alarms and help you sleep better without the glowing light (unless the clock has a battery backup). 

Check Hiding Spots

Before letting your guard down in your locked hotel room, check these hiding spots to make sure you really are alone: under the bed, in the closet, and in the shower. An intruder could have slipped in before you and could be lying in wait—or something more gruesome. Snopes lists a number of actual incidents in which guests checked into a hotel, complained about a horrible odor in their room, and later discovered a human body hidden under the bed or mattress. They had literally been sleeping on top of a corpse. 

Study the Emergency Escape Route

Emergency escape maps are required by law to be posted on the back of the main door to every hotel room. Take a few minutes to orient yourself in the hotel building and to familiarize yourself with the fastest exits (as well as backup routes in case the closest path is blocked).

Hopefully, you’ll never need to use this information during your stay, but in the worst-case scenario of a fire or other emergency where every second counts, these few minutes of preparation could save your life.  

Deadbolt the Door

Mistakes can be made, and it’s not uncommon for someone to be given an incorrect room assignment and the key to your room—meaning another guest could accidentally walk into your room, even if the door is locked. When you’re inside your hotel room, always activate the deadbolt or security chain to prevent intruders (or just unexpected visits from hotel staff). 

Sanitize

Your room may look clean, but that doesn’t mean it’s sanitary. Wipe down germ hotspots (like light switches and doorknobs) with an antibacterial wipe to stay healthy. And be sure to wipe down the television remote control (or better yet, put it in a bag or shower cap) before using it, as it generally isn’t cleaned in between guests. 

Jettison Any Decorative Items From the Bed

It’s a mystery to us why hotels insist on putting decorative throw pillows on beds (that clearly can’t be washed). Make sure your sleeping surface stays clean by removing anything that isn’t obviously laundered when the room is cleaned—including throw pillows and bedspreads. 

Wash Your Hands

You’ve just come from a plane, public transportation, or road trip with rest stops—washing your hands as soon as you arrive in your own private bathroom is a smart move. 

The post 8 Things You Should Always Do When You Check Into a Hotel Room appeared first on SmarterTravel.

While flying may be better than taking a cruise, there is still a negative impact on the environment, so choosing an airline that is working towards being more sustainable is key to doing your part in helping the environment. 

When deciding which airlines to fly and what makes them sustainable, there are a few factors to consider. 

Operational Factors

• Fuel Efficiency: This includes aircraft type, engine technology, and operational optimization (e.g., flight routes, air traffic management).
• Emissions Reduction: Focus on reducing carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and other pollutants emitted by aircraft.
• Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): Adoption and use of biofuels or synthetic fuels to reduce carbon emissions.
• Fleet Modernization: Investing in newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft models.
• Weight Reduction: Reducing aircraft weight through material innovation and optimized cargo loads.

Environmental Management

• Carbon Offsetting: Implementing programs to compensate for carbon emissions through investments in renewable energy or reforestation projects.
• Waste Management: Effective waste reduction, recycling, and disposal practices.
• Noise Pollution: Minimizing aircraft noise impact on communities.
• Water Conservation: Efficient water usage in airline operations.
• Biodiversity: Protecting ecosystems and wildlife through responsible operations.

Corporate and Social Responsibility

• Transparency: Openly reporting environmental performance and setting clear sustainability goals.
• Employee Engagement: Involving employees in sustainability initiatives.
• Supply Chain Sustainability: Ensuring suppliers adhere to environmental standards.
• Community Involvement: Supporting local communities and environmental projects.

Certifications and Standards

• Adherence to International Standards: Complying with regulations and industry standards for environmental performance.
• Seeking Certifications: Obtaining certifications like ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System) to demonstrate commitment.
• CDP Score: The CDP, Carbon Disclosure Project, issues airlines a score which, According to Ecometria, is a rating system that assesses  “the performance of a diverse range of companies and cities looking specifically at how they manage their environmental impact, which includes their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.”

Major US Airlines have committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, but until then, here are the most sustainable airlines. 

Top Eco-Friendly Airlines

United Airlines 

According to CEO Scott Kirby, United has embraced “a new goal to be 100% green by 2050 by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions 100%.” They are well on their way to reach this goal, implementing several sustainable practices, including the purchase of 100 30-passenger hybrid-electric planes. They also focus on reducing jet fuel consumption through initiatives like increased use of sustainable aviation fuels and operational efficiencies. Beyond emissions, United is committed to a holistic approach, integrating sustainability into every aspect of their business, from ground operations to customer experiences. Recognizing the industry-wide challenge, they are actively collaborating with partners to drive change and invest in innovative solutions. United’s progress is evident in their industry-leading CDP score and validated sustainability targets, demonstrating their commitment to a more sustainable future for aviation.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines has solidified its position as a sustainability leader in the airline industry. The carrier has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact through a multifaceted approach. By setting ambitious climate goals, including a net-zero carbon emissions target by 2040, Alaska Airlines demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability. Their focus on fuel efficiency has contributed to lower emissions through operating a fuel-efficient fleet and optimized flight paths. Additionally, the airline’s proactive stance on sustainable aviation fuels and its efforts to reduce plastic waste onboard showcase its dedication to environmental stewardship. Alaska Airlines’ commitment to transparency and accountability further solidifies its reputation as a responsible corporate citizen.

SAS

SAS Scandinavian Airlines has proven itself dedicated to sustainable aviation through a combination of strategic initiatives. The airline has made significant strides by prioritizing using sustainable aviation fuel, a key factor in reducing emissions. With a focus on fleet modernization, SAS has invested in newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft to lower its environmental impact. Additionally, the airline’s commitment to operational efficiency, including optimized flight routes and weight reduction, contributes to its overall sustainability performance. SAS’s transparency regarding its sustainability efforts and active participation in industry initiatives solidifies its position as a responsible corporate citizen.

KLM

KLM is a leader in sustainable air travel and continues to improve its fleet, use sustainable practices, and do its part in helping the environment recover from damage. KLM has begun using 1% SAF in every flight out of Amsterdam and aims to make that 10% by 2030. They also support three nature regeneration projects to  “help ecosystems recover from harmful human activity.” They are also constantly improving sustainability onboard through reducing weight, conscious meal choices, and recycling. 

Lufthansa 

In 2024, Lufthansa received top rating from the CDP, receiving an A-. The Lufthansa Group is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. To reach this ambitious goal, they aim to halve their net CO2 emissions by 2030 compared to 2019. Their strategies include modernizing their fleet, increasing the use of sustainable aviation fuel, optimizing flight operations, and offering sustainable travel options to customers. The group also supports climate research and has received validation for its climate targets from the Science-Based Targets Initiative.

Japan ANA

Japan ANA received the only A from the CDP, making it the leading airline in sustainability for 2024. ANA has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact through several key initiatives. It has been at the forefront of adopting Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), investing heavily in its production and usage. Additionally, the airline has focused on operational efficiency, including optimizing flight paths and reducing aircraft weight. ANA has also been transparent about its sustainability goals and progress, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.

Factors to Consider When Flying

While choosing a more environmentally-conscious airline helps, there are a lot of things you can do to help as well. Here are some ways you can be more responsible when flying: 

Choose direct flights: Take-offs and landings are the most fuel-intensive parts of a flight. Direct flights (nonstop) can reduce emissions.

Pack light: A lighter aircraft burns less fuel. Pack efficiently to minimize luggage weight.

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