HOW TO SUPPORT SMALL LOCAL BUSINESSES WHILE TRAVELING

Supporting small local businesses while traveling is important for the economy, the livelihood of the local people and the preservation of traditional culture and craftsmanship. This is an important value to hold even as we travel outside of our own communities.

Supporting small businesses while traveling goes beyond purchasing a souvenir (even though that is a great way to support local!).

Let’s explore a few different ways in which we can support small local businesses… with and without spending money!

There are many ways that we can show our support that will have a positive impact on the local community:

• Stay in locally owned hostels, hotels and home stays.
• Eat at local restaurants – try out traditional dishes and local cuisines.
• Support the local food market or farmers market.
• Try out different local bakeries and cafes in the areas you visit.
• Attend a cooking class hosted by a local to learn how to make their typical dishes.
• Go on a local food tour.
• Buy local artisans, handmade souvenirs and art.
• Attend arts and crafts workshops hosted by local artists.
• Use local tour guides for your adventures.
• Make use of public transport and local taxi drivers.
• Go on a walking tour with a local guide.
• Volunteer at an organization or local charity in the community.
• Visit the historical sites, museums and attractions in the area.
• Attend art shows, local performances, music nights, festivals and gatherings.
• Book your tours and adventures directly with local companies instead of internationally owned travel agencies.
• Give an extra tip when you can!

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES WITHOUT SPENDING A DOLLAR:

I understand that it is not always possible to spend extra money on souvenir. And sometimes we need to save money or stick to a budget while traveling.

But there are a few ways that we can support local businesses without even spending a dollar that can help these businesses with future customers:

• Leave good reviews for businesses, services, tours and accommodations.
• Recommend local restaurants, shops and tour agencies to your friends and family.
• If a small local business has social media, follow their pages and show your support on their posts.
• Tag local businesses on social media to spread the word!

As travelers, we can have a massive positive impact on how local communities can thrive when we choose to show them support and share their offerings with our fellow travelers. We are also choosing to support a more sustainable and ethical way of life along our travels.

I would love to hear in the comments what your favorite way to support small businesses while traveling is.

Echo Soul Creations