If you’re planning a honeymoon, you might be imagining magical destinations where you can experience a different culture and activities. Then you remember the environmental impact of flying and wonder if there’s an eco-friendly honeymoon option. The honeymoon is a perfect vacation to start your lives together. If you’re paying attention to sustainability during your nuptials, here are ideas to reduce your carbon footprint on your honeymoon.

Define What Eco-Friendly Means for You

A honeymoon is traditionally about luxury and elegance, but the definitions are evolving to mean more than just opulence. Today’s luxury honeymoon might be about an amazing location with spectacular sunrises or an inviting cultural experience out of the ordinary. How do you want to reduce your carbon footprint on your honeymoon? What are you willing to give up to be more eco-friendly?

How Will You Travel?

Flying is not completely off the table if you’re trying to be sustainable. Look for airlines that have a carbon offset program, or donate to a carbon offset program if you really can’t get to your destination any other way. Limit layovers by choosing nonstop flights. Choose mid-size passenger planes and sit in economy class. If you don’t want to fly, look at trains or buses to get to your honeymoon location. Don’t forget water as a means of transportation. Many cruise lines are very eco-friendly and all-inclusive, giving you less to worry about.

Where Will You Stay?

Look for resorts and hotels that focus on sustainability as part of their business practices. There isn’t one standard certification, so you’ll probably need to do a little more research when you’re choosing where to stay. Smaller hotels may not be able to afford a sustainability certification, even though they may operate as a green hotel. Some accommodations are naturally sustainable. Hostels, cabins, tents and house-swapping are very eco-friendly. Look for places that really are making sustainable choices, such as turning off the air conditioning or using solar energy. Read about their efforts to be eco-friendly. Ask yourself if the commitment seems serious or superficial.

What Do You Do on Your Eco-Friendly Honeymoon?

Eco-tourism often focuses on natural activities in the outdoors. Your honeymoon can be a nice time to go on walks in the city. Eat at local restaurants that have plant-based menus. Visit museums and art galleries. Rent a bike to enjoy the countryside. Think about activities that get you close to nature without using energy resources. Instead of jet skis, use kayaks to explore the waterways. Go for a hike. Take in a local conservatory or natural habitat to learn more about the wildlife. Wherever you go, take only pictures. Leave only footprints.

What Do You Bring on Your Eco-Friendly Honeymoon?

Pack what you already own for your honeymoon instead of buying new products. If you do want something different for a special evening, borrow from a friend, shop at a consignment store or invest in eco-friendly fashion. Pack your own organic bath and body products that won’t harm plants and wildlife. Include a reusable water bottle and straw and reusable bags that you can carry with you while you’re shopping or hiking. Don’t forget eco-friendly sunscreen and bug spray. Look for ways to reduce your plastic waste and single-use items. As you travel with sustainable products, it becomes more natural for you and others.

Find the Balance

Don’t be so focused on sustainability that you forget to enjoy your honeymoon with your spouse. Make the best choices you can within your budget and values while creating experiences together that you’ll remember forever. Be responsible when traveling but have fun.