The realities of climate change are something we in the travel industry cannot ignore! That’s why we encourage our guests to travel green when they visit us at Breakaway Vacations. Here are just a few ways that you can do so:
1. Don’t Litter (and DO Recycle)
Whether you are road tripping, sitting at a beach, or hiking…never drop your garbage on the ground. It’s a good idea to carry a receptacle that can temporarily hold garbage until you can dispose of it. Additionally, take time to sort paper, plastics, bottles, and cans and deliver them to an appropriate recycling location. Ask your host for suggestions or do a quick Google search.
2. Respect Wildlife
Listen to all signs telling you to stay off the path, don’t feed wild animals, and so on. Keep your distance if you see wildlife in their natural habitat and respect food storage requirements so as not to attract them. Don’t approach them for any reason, especially not selfies! Pack binoculars so that you can observe them from a safe, respectful distance.
3. Use Reusable Water Bottles (not plastic)
It’s tempting to purchase a beverage in plastic cups on any long journey. Instead, bring a few reusable water bottles and refill them when you can. You can also pack tea bags and instant coffee to resist the urge for a coffee run that might result in additional waste.
4. Cut Back Meat Eating
Worried about the impact of your travelling? Cut back on eating meat while you are away or the month before or after. This simple action offsets a ton of carbon emissions and can “neutralize” any additional impact you might have during your vacation.
5. Carry Reusable Bags Everywhere
During your trip, you are likely going to pick up a few souvenirs or stop somewhere for snacks. Make sure you have a reusable bag with you so that you don’t have to waste paper or plastic. You can even get reusable bags that fold into tine squares or rolls that fit right in your pocket or purse.
6. Use Public Transit Where Possible
Skip cabs and Uber and opt for public transport instead. It’s more environmentally friendly and cheaper, too. You can also try bike rentals, walking tours, and other green methods of sightseeing.
7. Eat Local Food
Eating locally is a trip to be green anywhere you are and that carries over into any trips you take. This includes looking for drinks, like beer and wine, that are made in the area. Perfect if you’re travelling to B.C.—AKA Wine Country.
8. Skip Daily Room Cleaning
Do you wash your bed sheets and towels after every use at home? No? Then why do it when travelling? It’s a huge waste of water so keep the Do Not Disturb sign on the door and skip daily cleaning.
9. Unplug your home
Before you go anywhere, unplug and power down everything in your home. Removing plugs from sockets can save energy, as can turning heating and hot water off. Tripple check that no lights are left on and power down any electronic devices.
