We all have dreams of travelling the world, yet we all need to do our bit to save the planet, reduce greenhouse gases and diminish our carbon footprints. But do these two statements ever go hand in hand? Can you travel the world and be kind to the environment?
You might have plans regarding the insurance. If you’re planning a trip abroad then you’re going to need insurance, but you’re confused by all your travel insurance options don’t worry. You can get the lowdown on travel insurance vs health insurance here, just click the link. However, traveling eco-friendly is something new. With beaches in some of the most beautiful places on Earth being closed after extensive damage to coral reefs and wildlife eco-systems, all due to the negative impact of tourism, being an eco-friendly traveler seems a little unrealistic, right?
Wrong. You can, in fact, be a climate-conscious traveler, as long as you make certain choices and do a few swaps! There are many ways to travel green. You have the option to win prizes and competitions with Daymade or similar prize platforms that promote causes that helps the planet. If budget is not the issue, read on to learn how to be an eco-friendly traveler.
Say No to Plastic Bags
Did you know that plastic bags can take up to 500 years to decompose? Meaning that the small bag you use for on average 2 minutes, will then be stuck in a landfill for the next five centuries! Shocking, right? The solution here is simple; when you go travelling make sure you take a reusable shopping bag with you. That way, if you’re picking up some nice souvenirs at a local market or you want to hit the supermarket and make something fresh, you won’t need to buy a plastic bag. They fold up so they don’t take up too much space in your luggage too.
Head to an Eco Hotel
When it comes to choosing a hotel or a holiday package, choose a company that matches your ethos. You may be surprised to hear that more and more hotels are turning towards greener options to do their bit for the planet, which means finding an eco-hotel shouldn’t be too difficult. Look for hotels that are members of the Green Hotel Association, or hotels that have renewable energy sources, low flow toilets, and showerheads, water conservation policies, highly rated energy-saving appliances, locally grown produce in meals, and lots of recycling bins, natural fiber sheets, among others. For instance, you can check out sustainable hotels similar to hotels britomart, if you happen to visit New Zealand.
Travel on land and use public transport
If possible, avoid flying at all costs. So, if you’re travelling from one end of the country to another, opt for a car drive or a train ride rather than stepping onto a plane. You’ll get to see more of your host country that way too! Also, once you reach your destination, check out the local transport routes. For example, if you are traveling to Italy, firstly, you can search “italy best places to visit” and then decide on what type of travel mode you can choose. When you opt for local transport options, not only would you be contributing to the environment but also exploring more places.
Pack as lightly as possible
If you do have to fly, then remember to pack light. Remember that the more the plane weighs the more harm it’s causing to the environment. So don’t pack the kitchen sink, just take what you need.
Say no to bottled water
There’s no need to buy bottled water on holiday. All you need is a reusable water bottle that you can fill up as and when you need to. Not only is it kinder to the environment but it will also save you a lot of money!