You have traveled to the most scenic part of the world. Preserve that beauty for future generations to see. Here are some tips to help the environment:
Pack Light, Bring only what you need.
Not only will you save the headache of additional airline bag fees or the risk of losing that bag en route to your destination, it will also be less potential weight for what mode of transportation you use, and thus less energy required to travel.
Use Public Transportation When You Can
Another big thing that you can do is to reduce your carbon footprint by using public transportation when you can. Trains give you a vast view of the countryside and will offer you great opportunities to take pictures. In order to get some great exercise, consider renting a bicycle or going on a bike tour. In Switzerland, passengers can take advantage of both since they are able to rent bicycles at stations and also bring them aboard.
Take A Volunteer Vacation.
Volunteer vacations are another great way of helping the environment. Help clean the oceans by looking at oceana.org. You can help build a holding tank for a community’s water supply, help build classroom furniture and playground equipment. You will feel great about yourself while doing these important things and if a significant amount of the vacation is spent to volunteer, you may be able to write off some of the expenses come tax season.
Book A Hotel that Has A Favorable Energy Rating
Some websites have started including the energy rating in the information. Go to eco friendly resorts, lodges and hotels that are constructed from recycled material.
Rent A Smart Car
Choose a hybrid or compact model that goes uses less gas. This will also save you money on refueling.
Decrease the need for unnecessary laundry
Most hotels follow the policy that if you hang the towels, you will continue to use them, and towels on the floor will be replaced. This is a good thing since washing the towel and sheets every day require a lot of wasteful water and energy.
But before you do all this, make sure to take care of everything at home by
- Pulling the plug on any unnecessary appliances, such as TVs, DVD players, toasters and microwaves. Not only will this help conserve energy, it can prevent any accidents from happening while you’re away.
- Set your thermostat and water heater at low so there is no wasted energy while you’re gone
- Stop your newspaper delivery. You can also donate the paper to a school while you’re gone.
