When planning a getaway, many of us think about where we'll stay, what we'll do, and how we'll make memories. But have you ever thought about the environmental footprint of your holiday? Sustainability is no longer a niche consideration when it comes to travel. Increasingly, holidaymakers are looking beyond beautiful destinations and comfortable accommodation to consider the impact their trips have on the environment.
Recent research from Booking.com found that 83% of travellers say sustainable travel is important to them, while 75% want to travel more sustainably in the next 12 months. The challenge for many people is finding holidays that genuinely make a difference, without sacrificing comfort, relaxation or quality time together.
At Feather Down, we believe that reconnecting with nature shouldn't come at nature's expense. In fact, a Feather Down stay emits just 3.43 kg of CO₂ per night, compared to the average hotel stay, which emits around 12 kg of CO₂ per person per night.
So, what's the difference?
The answer lies in simpler living. Our off-grid canvas hideaways don't rely on energy-hungry hotel facilities, endless lighting, lifts, air conditioning, or always-on Wi-Fi. Instead, life slows down. Evenings are spent around a crackling wood-burning stove, meals are enjoyed together, and nature provides the entertainment.
The emissions from a Feather Down stay mainly come from the wood used in the stove (and optional hot tub), and the boiler that provides hot water for your shower. Beyond that, energy use is kept intentionally low. Without the constant electrical buzz, you have the freedom to slow down and relax, shedding the daily pressures from your shoulders.
A stay on the farm also means less electricity consumption, fewer resources used, and a closer connection to local food, wildlife, and the countryside. Every unplugged night saves energy, every local meal cuts food miles, and every stay helps support real working farms and the landscapes they care for. Rather than building large-scale tourism infrastructure, Feather Down holidays work with existing farms and natural environments, creating memorable experiences with a lighter environmental footprint.
Guests often leave with a deeper connection to nature too. Whether it's watching livestock graze, listening to birdsong over breakfast, spotting wildlife on a farm walk or stargazing beneath dark skies, these moments help foster a greater appreciation for the natural world.
One of the most surprising aspects of sustainable travel is that less can often feel like more.
Less screen time means more conversations around the campfire. Less artificial light means brighter stars overhead. Less rushing between activities means more time to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures that are often missing from everyday life.
Research consistently shows that people are seeking more meaningful travel experiences rather than simply ticking destinations off a list. The growing interest in sustainable travel reflects a broader desire to holiday with purpose, connect with local places and create lasting memories.
At Feather Down, your holiday footprint is lighter than your muddy boots after a farm walk - and somehow, that makes the whole thing feel even better.
Sometimes, travelling more sustainably isn't about sacrificing comfort—it's about rediscovering what really matters. Fresh air, dark skies, family time, and a lighter footprint on the planet. And that's a holiday everyone can feel good about.
