When it comes to traveling, one of the biggest misconceptions is that it’s too difficult or too expensive to go green on the road. But eco-friendly travel isn’t as challenging as it seems.
A few simple changes in how you travel can make a big difference not only to the environment but also to your wallet. That said, here are a few ways you can be more green while you travel and save money while you do it.
Eco-proof your home before you leave
Before you travel anywhere, be sure to eco-proof your home so you’re not wasting energy or money while you’re away. Adjust your water heater to its lowest possible setting and unplug all electronics like digital clocks, lamps, and TVs that won’t be used while you’re away.
What’s more, if you’re subscribed to a newspaper service, be sure to call and suspend your subscription for the duration of your trip.
Use greener transportation on your trip
While you’re planning your trip, consider where you’re going, how you plan to get there, and how you’ll be getting around your destination.
For instance, if you’re going to a city, consider finding a small bicycling business and renting a bike to get around. There are up to 28 million small businesses in the U.S. and 72% of businesses say that improving their customer experience is their number one priority.
If you’re traveling long-distance, opt for using a train because it’s more energy-efficient per passenger.
Make sure the car you use is eco-friendly
Sometimes you need to use a car to get around whether you’re taking a road trip or traveling around the city. In this case, make sure the vehicle you’re using is eco-friendly.
This doesn’t mean your car needs to be electric, but it should be inspected and properly taken care of to ensure you’re not increasing your carbon footprint. There are 14 million vehicles on the road today that are 25 years or older, and older vehicles are often less green than today’s cars.
Older cars also have a greater chance of sustaining damage in an accident because metal alloys are used for their exterior parts. Today’s vehicles use RIM polyurethane parts, which are made by mixing and injecting two liquid components into a mold where they chemically react and cure.
RIM polyurethane parts are also less susceptible to dents, dings, stone chips, and corrosion. That means when you drive in a newer, greener vehicle, not only are you reducing your carbon footprint while you travel but you’re also reducing your risk of damaging your vehicle and being injured if you’re ever in an accident.
Visit destinations where sustainability is a priority
Traveling green doesn’t just mean reducing your carbon footprint. It also means being green while you vacation at your destination. One of the easiest ways to be greener while you travel is to visit a destination that already has sustainability in mind.
Here are just a few eco-conscious destinations to consider for your next vacation:
- Alaska
- South Africa
- Costa Rica
- U.S. National Parks
- Belize
- California
- Maho Bay on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Going green while you travel isn’t as difficult as it appears. By making a few simple changes like the ones listed above, you can reduce your carbon footprint on the road without breaking your budget.
