In recent years, travel has become more accessible than ever—flights are cheaper, social media makes every destination look irresistible, and the idea of being “well-traveled” has become a status symbol. But behind the glossy Instagram photos lies a growing problem: overtourism. Overtourism occurs when too many visitors flood a destination, straining local resources and diminishing residents’ quality of life. It’s more than just crowded beaches or long lines at landmarks; it’s a crisis with social and environmental consequences.
In many popular destinations, locals are being evicted from their homes as landlords turn residential properties into short-term rentals to capitalize on the tourism boom. Revolving doors of visitors and investors are slowly replacing communities that once thrived on local connections. The environment suffers, too. Man-made carbon emissions from flights, cruise ships, and other tourist activities continue to climb, contributing to climate change and damaging delicate ecosystems. And as communities shrink and local culture fades, the authenticity that draws travelers in the first place begins to disappear.
Social media has undeniably fueled the trend of overtourism; platforms like Instagram and TikTok have turned destinations such as Tulum, Mexico and Santorini, Greece, into must-see spots for their picture-perfect scenery, but at a cost. Viral posts often direct millions of people to the same few places, creating congestion that overwhelms local infrastructure and makes genuine cultural immersion nearly impossible.
Travel influencer and founder of the travel group company Reggie & Friends, Reggie Cummings, has witnessed the effects of overtourism firsthand. When he began organizing group trips in 2016, he would bring hundreds of people to a single destination. But over time, he noticed how crowds diluted the experience. Now, his trips are limited to more intimate groups of 10 to 15 travelers, allowing for a deeper and more mindful connection with each place.
“Santorini is on everyone’s bucket list,” Cummings explained, “but it’s so overcrowded that it can be an unpleasant experience because it dilutes the activities.” The congestion isn’t limited to land — cruise ships often dock at already packed ports, further overwhelming small island communities. For Cummings, travel should be about connection, not chaos. “The purpose of traveling is to immerse ourselves into the local culture,” he said. “With crowds, we lose meaningful experiences trying to navigate large groups of people.”
Cummings also shared his approach to avoiding overtourism and traveling more sustainably. “Do your research and enjoy more than what’s shown on social media,” he said. By exploring nearby towns or lesser-known attractions, travelers can experience the authentic charm of a region without adding pressure to overcrowded areas. He recommends visiting during the shoulder season, the time just before or after peak tourist months, when destinations are quieter and more affordable. Above all, he encourages travelers to be intentional: “Challenge yourself to find hidden gems and source responsible places to visit and indulge in.”
Because when we travel thoughtfully, we not only protect the places we love, but we also ensure they’ll be just as beautiful for those who come after us.
