Sustainable Travel Tips
As you prepare to travel, check out these tips on how to integrate sustainable practices. A little bit of thought and planning can help you lighten your carbon footprint.
All Aboard
Finding the right transportation options for your trip is the first step to being a sustainable traveler. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, aircraft accounts for 12% of the greenhouse gases from transportation in the United States. For many destinations, trains provide a more sustainable option because they emit significantly less CO2 than airplanes. Trains can also be more cost-effective and allow you to take in passing scenery.
However, if traveling by plane is necessary to reach your destination, try planning direct flights. Shorter flights and stopovers produce more pollution per passenger, as take-offs and landings are a large portion of the overall emissions.
By doing a little research, you can find the best mode of transportation, both for yourself and the environment.
Anticipate your needs
From plastic cups to paper tickets, travelling can be filled with single-use items. Thinking ahead about what you need while you travel is a great way to cut back on waste.
Get into the habit of bringing your reusable water bottle with you, so you can stay hydrated without relying on single-use plastic. This will also help you save money, so you’re not spending all your savings on expensive bottled water.
Refrain from taking the single-use items on flights and trains such as plastic cups, cutlery, and promotional pamphlets. Bring your own reusables and say “no thanks” when offered disposables you don’t need. While some airlines do have recycling practices and goals, many in-flight materials end up at landfills or incinerators.
Downloading your e-tickets instead of printing them is a great way to cut out paper waste. Simply downloading the transportation company app or saving the ticket to your camera roll will make your travel experience less of a hassle. Ultimately, planning ahead will help you make choices that are both convenient and sustainable.
Pack lightly
While packing for all weathers and occasions may be tempting, the heavier your luggage, the more fuel is needed to haul your stuff. By travelling light, you can lower your environmental impact and help reduce greenhouse gases.
Checking the weather forecast for your destination will help you pack appropriately. Having a lighter load will also make it easier to navigate public transportation, which is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Plan out your route to the airport or train station, so you can arrive safely and stress-free.
Packing lightly can also save you money by helping you to avoid luggage fees. By lightening your physical load, you can also reduce your mental load by not feeling bogged down.
Choose sustainable accommodations
When researching travel options, check to see if the places you’re considering have any sustainable lodging designations. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council recognizes hotels around the world for their sustainable practices. Here, you can find sustainability information on accommodations, tour agencies, governments, destinations, and more.
Eat local
What’s the main reason to travel around the world during the busiest time of year? Food, of course! If you’re looking forward to a big holiday feast, consider purchasing locally-sourced ingredients. Cooking with local ingredients has a lot of benefits, both for the planet and people.
Locally sourced food has a lower carbon footprint because it doesn’t have to travel as far to get to your dinner table. On average, food travels 1,500 miles to get to your plate. This long-distance, large-scale transportation of food uses large quantities of fossil fuels. Buying local also gives you access to fresher foods and allows you to support the local farming economy.
Also, you may consider incorporating plant-based or meat free options into your meal plans. Decreasing meat and dairy consumption helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and water use.