Visiting islands in a responsible way requires forethought and planning on the part of each individual to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip while minimizing damage to the natural environment.

Know Before You Go

Know the regulations and special concerns for the area or islands you intend to visit. Access to many islands is restricted during certain times of the year to protect wildlife or for other reasons. Choose destinations that match your goals, skills, and abilities. Be sure to consult nautical charts and maps both before you depart and while underway.

Be Prepared

Make sure you are prepared for extreme weather and other hazards to avoid being faced with an emergency situation that could result in unnecessarily high impacts to the islands. Weather or sea conditions may force you to revise your itinerary or stay on a particular island longer than anticipated. Consider scheduling your trip to avoid high use times and areas. Always carry a camp stove and fuel, matches, and plenty of food and water.

Think Small

Visit in small groups and keep your camping footprint compact. Choose islands and campsites appropriate for the size of your group using the recommended camping capacities outlined in the MITA Stewardship Handbook & Guidebook. As an alternative to island camping consider mainland campgrounds or B&Bs.

Meal Planning

To reduce potential litter at the source, remove excess food packaging before you leave home. Plan meals that do not depend on fires for cooking.

Next