If you’re thinking about reducing your environmental impact while traveling–and most people are–then there are plenty of ways to do so. Here are nine tips for reducing your carbon footprint while on the road:
Choose eco-friendly transportation
Taking the bus or subway is the most effective way to lessen one’s impact on the environment. Public transportation is a great alternative to driving if you can’t afford a vehicle or don’t have access to one, as it helps lessen the impact on the environment and on commute times in densely populated urban areas.
Bicycling is a fantastic alternative to driving that also reduces your reliance on fossil fuels. Although bicycling helps the environment by reducing emissions from cars and buses, it is essential to wear reflective clothing and other safety gear when commuting along high-traffic corridors. Check out one of the many bike shops in and around the nearest major city; they likely stock the mandatory helmets, lights, locks, etc., that you’ll need.
Pack light. Reuse, repair, recycle.
To reduce the amount of luggage you need to carry, try packing your clothes in one bag. Instead of bringing a suitcase and a backpack, bring these two items together in one convenient bag that can easily be carried around by hand.
If you do choose to use a carry-on bag instead of a regular suitcase, make sure it’s small enough so that it won’t cause any problems when trying to check in at security checkpoints or get through narrow areas like airports.*
If possible, try traveling with just one bag instead of two; this will allow more space for everything else and make getting through airport security easier as well!
Bring reusable water bottles and utensils
Bringing your own refillable water bottle on the road is a simple way to lessen your impact on the environment. Aluminum or plastic water bottles designed for reuse have a wide range of applications. They’re more practical than disposable ones because they can be refilled with tap water or other beverages at eateries and coffee shops. In hot regions, such as southern Europe or Australia, you can use them as a cooler to keep your food and drinks cold for longer than plastic containers would, without adding too much weight to your trip. Just make sure there’s enough room inside so nothing spills out.
Support local businesses
Supporting local businesses is a great eco-friendly travel tip that can help reduce your carbon footprint. Here are two specific ways that you can support local businesses while traveling:
- Eat locally sourced food
One of the best ways to support local businesses while traveling is to eat locally sourced food. This means choosing restaurants and cafes that source their ingredients from nearby farms and producers. By doing this, you’ll not only be supporting local businesses, but you’ll also be reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances.
- Shop at local markets
Another way to support local businesses is to shop at local markets. This can include farmers markets, artisan markets, and other similar venues where local vendors sell their goods. By shopping at these markets, you’ll be supporting small-scale producers and reducing the carbon footprint associated with large-scale production and transportation of goods.
Pack wraparound pashmina scarves
According to https://www.arcteryx.com/, pashmina scarves are one of the most versatile travel accessories you can own. Not only do they keep you warm in cold weather, but they also act as a blanket or pillow when you’re ready to take a nap or hit the hay.
Pashminas are made from cashmere, an animal fiber that’s considered by some to be more luxurious than other types of wool (which is why it’s often used for high-end clothing). The fibers feel soft against your skin and come in many different colors, patterns and styles—and now there’s even pashmina jewelry! If you’re looking for something extra special for yourself or someone else on your gift list this holiday season then consider getting them one of these gorgeous pieces:
Stay in eco-friendly accommodations
One of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to stay in eco-friendly accommodation. There are many options available, including hotels and hostels, guesthouses and resorts, campsites, and cabins. If you’re looking for something a little more rustic or off the beaten path (and don’t mind sharing that space with strangers), then consider camping as another option.
Reduce energy usage
A further way to reduce your energy consumption is to use a power strip or power bar. Plugging in a power strip at night makes it convenient to charge your phone, computer, and other devices. Another great thing about power bars is that you can switch which outlets are active at any given time.
However, if that isn’t sufficient for your requirements and budget, you could always invest in a converter. Using a converter will reduce the amount of power that smaller appliances like lamps use from the wall outlet (which saves money). Also helpful is if their solar panels are paired with rechargeable batteries so that they can function even when the sun isn’t out.
Leave no trace
- Leave nothing but footprints
One of the best ways you can reduce your carbon footprint is by being aware of where you’re going. Before you leave home, make sure that you have all the supplies necessary for your trip and that they’ll last as long as possible (for example food, and water).
- Pack out your trash
If there’s any doubt about whether or not something should be recycled or disposed of properly, then it probably shouldn’t go in the trash can! Pack out everything from plastic bags to food wrappers and even toilet paper—believe me when I say that animals don’t want those things near them!
Conclusion
To reduce your carbon footprint, it’s important to consider the impact of all aspects of your lifestyle on the environment. While traveling can be a fun and exciting experience, it does come with a huge carbon footprint. When you travel for leisure or business, consider these tips for reducing your carbon footprint.
