Planning a trip this year? It’s important to try to make the same conservation efforts on the road as we would at home. As travelers we should remember that just because we’re out of town, the need to decrease our impact on the environment does not go away. Here are a few helpful green travel tips to keep in mind when planning your next vacation.
1. Book Direct Flights
It probably won’t come as much surprise to learn that planes emit up to 70% of their CO2 emissions during take-off and landing. By flying direct there is less of a chance for delays, you’ll arrive quicker and you’ll know you’ve taken the first step towards travelling green.
2. Choose a green(er) plane
While you won’t find a hybrid plane any time soon, more fuel efficient jets can produce some 30% less carbon than the large, outdated gas guzzlers. If your plans are flexible and you have a choice of aircraft, do some research and try to pick the greener travel choice between the two.
3. Bring a re-usable water bottle in your carry on and fill it after security.
Many airports don’t have recycling bins available at every turn, so tons of plastic, metal and glass end up in the trash. Remember that bottle has to be empty when you go through security.
4. When packing toiletries, always use and refill small bottles.
Even if you purchase a smaller version of your favorite brand of shampoo, remember to refill it from your home supply rather than buying another one when it runs out. You can find many travel size bottles and accessories at your local stores or online.
5. Use your towels for the duration of your hotel stay
If you don’t change your towels on a daily basis at home, there’s no need to do so while traveling. Hotels worldwide go through tons of gallons of water every day washing linens. If you use the same towels for the duration of your stay, you help cut back on water use.
6. Turn the lights off in the hotel room
Just as re-using towels conserves water, remembering to turn the lights off when leaving the room saves energy as well.
7. Use public transportation when possible…better yet, ride a bike!
When in a new city, one of the best ways to travel green is to do as the locals do. Take the bus or take the train. For the added bonus of burning a few calories as you get around, find somewhere to rent a bike and start peddling, Washington D.C. is a great place to do this and you can see all the sites!
8. Pack Light
The more your luggage weighs, the larger your carbon foot print in the air and on the ground. Take only the necessities – you’ll be surprised how much you can fit in a small bag with the army roll packing technique.
Challenge yourself to try even a couple of these easy tricks, and pat yourself on the back for making the effort to take your everyday green habits on the road!
Do you have tips to share on what have you done on vacation to lessen your impact on the local environment?
-Lauren from Delta Vacations
(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
Loading ...
Posted in 
Tags: 
