DontFlyGo.com regular contributor Felicia Baritz-Savage is back to tell us about about how we can save the world for future travelling generations!
From recycling to repurposing items around your home, you work hard to lower your carbon footprint every day. Your choices to reduce, reuse and recycle make a difference in the environment. What happens when you want to go green when you travel? Whether your journey takes you across town or around the world, try these tips to make your next adventure eco-friendly.
Plan Wisely
Before leaving on your sabbatical to Asia, map out the tourist destinations you want to visit and try to plan your trip based on the geographical region. If you do, you will be able to find cheap hotels in Phuket, Ko Samui, Bangkok and other popular cities. By planning your adventures in advance, you limit unnecessary trips and limit carbon emissions. You’ll also have a handy itinerary to refer to throughout your trip, which will help keep you organized when you’re stressed or overtired.
Stay Local
Reserving a hotel room for one or several nights is part of the fun when traveling. When you book your hotel, find one closest to all the sites you want to see. Every morning, tie on your running shoes and spend the day exploring the city. In addition to promoting your physical health, you will lower or eliminate entirely the need to rely on public transportation to get around.
Hike and Bike
Because driving increases carbon emissions, consider taking a vacation that includes only hiking, running, biking or walking. Whether you hike between outdoor camping spots or go on a cycling adventure across the country of your choice, avoiding vehicular transportation reduces your carbon footprint.
Drive Smart
If your destination is too far away for you to walk, join a carpool. A variety of online sites enable you to find likeminded travelers who are interested in sharing a ride. Whether you’re driving or joining the carpool, plan your route carefully. Avoid driving during rush hour or through road construction and map your route so you don’t get lost. Cutting down on time you spend driving around or sitting in traffic will reduce excessive carbon emissions during your vacation.
Public transportation is another option when you need to get to your destination. Find a bus or train schedule at your host city’s welcome center and explore the town and surrounding countryside at your leisure.
Fly Straight
Certain destinations require airplane travel. Multiple layovers increase your carbon footprint; book a direct flight whenever possible. If flying directly to your destination isn’t possible, consider offsetting your carbon footprint by contributing to an eco-friendly organization, such as one that plants trees, beautifies the city and works to improve air quality. You might also consider travelling in a Caravan or Campervan if the route allows, just don’t forget to get insurance, you can buy caravan insurance online from safeguard if you do consider this option.
Eat Local
Every region includes specialized cuisine that makes your mouth water. Whenever possible, enjoy local foods and beverages. Consider buying snacks and meals directly from the local market where you can explore the local culture while sampling good food that’s good for you.
Window Shop
Souvenirs remind you of your travel adventures, but every item comes with its own carbon footprint. Consider exploring alternate options to send gifts to friends and family. When shopping, purchase only items you can’t buy in your home city. Window shopping gives you a taste of the available souvenirs and time to make thoughtful and eco-friendly decisions.
Prepare Your Home
Because you’ll be away from your home for a few days or weeks, prepare your home before you leave. Turn the water heater to vacation mode, unplug electronics and use motion sensor lights for security. The air conditioning or heat don’t need to run at full force while you’re gone, just as the television doesn’t need to be plugged in. Save energy and utility costs by keeping your home eco-friendly while you travel.
Traveling is exciting and fun and is a perfect time to continue reducing your carbon footprint. Small choices make a big impact and better the environment for you and other traveling enthusiasts.