We are all conscious of how the planet is changing. From extreme weather to changes in habitats, and mass protests around the world to try and grab our attention to this worrying plight. As someone who loves to travel, you might be wondering how you can do your bit to help the planet.
The travel choices you make whilst you’re on the road will make a huge difference, and you may even inspire others to do the same. From the mode of transport you use to travel, to the food you eat and the accommodation you choose, there are so many ways you can make the adventure of a lifetime an environmentally friendly one.
Feet Do Travel look at eco-friendly travel and how you can do your bit to help the planet.
The travel choices you make whilst you’re on the road will make a huge difference, and you may even inspire others to do the same. From the mode of transport you use to travel, to the food you eat and the accommodation you choose, there are so many ways you can make the adventure of a lifetime an environmentally friendly one.
Feet Do Travel look at eco-friendly travel and how you can do your bit to help the planet.
Photo Credit: Moalboal Eco Lodge, Cebu, Philippines
Say no to plastic
Plastic takes centuries to break down, and are a huge polluter to our ocean, as well as a threat to wildlife. If you already have plastic bags from previous shopping trips, carry one with you and use it until it can no longer be used, then invest in a reusable bag. The most eco-friendly option is to use what you already have – aiming to produce less waste is better than aiming to recycle more.
Carrying a bag around with you means you can say no to a plastic bag when you want to hit the local market for fresh produce, or if you want to go shopping in the City, and they are perfect for separating wet clothes from your dry ones on day trips.
You can also think about bringing plastic-alternatives along with you such as your own bamboo toothbrush which would eliminate the need to purchase a plastic brush whilst you're away.
Plastic takes centuries to break down, and are a huge polluter to our ocean, as well as a threat to wildlife. If you already have plastic bags from previous shopping trips, carry one with you and use it until it can no longer be used, then invest in a reusable bag. The most eco-friendly option is to use what you already have – aiming to produce less waste is better than aiming to recycle more.
Carrying a bag around with you means you can say no to a plastic bag when you want to hit the local market for fresh produce, or if you want to go shopping in the City, and they are perfect for separating wet clothes from your dry ones on day trips.
You can also think about bringing plastic-alternatives along with you such as your own bamboo toothbrush which would eliminate the need to purchase a plastic brush whilst you're away.
Related Post: 7 Easy Ways to Travel Plastic Free
Travel light
If you need to travel by plane, travelling light is the best option. Every kilo lost equals fewer emissions in the air, so go through your suitcase and travel bags and decide what can be leave behind. Going on a long weekend break? Try to only take carry on which will also save you time and money.
With a travel light mindset, think about having a wall canvas to display all those incredible travel moments when you get home.
Look for eco-friendly accommodation
Finding somewhere to stay that is eco-friendly, isn’t difficult these days. Many hotels, hostels and B&Bs are using their environmental practices as a unique selling point to attract like-minded travellers. If you want to be sure you are staying in eco-friendly accommodation, look for an Eco Lodge, but be mindful that even if they say they are eco-friendly many don’t always have eco-friendly practices. Look for the following features at your accommodation:
- Eco-friendly or low energy light bulbs
- Renewable energy
- The use of organic materials such as 100% cotton sheets and towels
- Serving organic/locally sourced produce
- Vegan options
- Water collection or recycling
If you need to travel by plane, travelling light is the best option. Every kilo lost equals fewer emissions in the air, so go through your suitcase and travel bags and decide what can be leave behind. Going on a long weekend break? Try to only take carry on which will also save you time and money.
With a travel light mindset, think about having a wall canvas to display all those incredible travel moments when you get home.
Look for eco-friendly accommodation
Finding somewhere to stay that is eco-friendly, isn’t difficult these days. Many hotels, hostels and B&Bs are using their environmental practices as a unique selling point to attract like-minded travellers. If you want to be sure you are staying in eco-friendly accommodation, look for an Eco Lodge, but be mindful that even if they say they are eco-friendly many don’t always have eco-friendly practices. Look for the following features at your accommodation:
- Eco-friendly or low energy light bulbs
- Renewable energy
- The use of organic materials such as 100% cotton sheets and towels
- Serving organic/locally sourced produce
- Vegan options
- Water collection or recycling
Looking for eco-friendly accommodation in the Philippines? Feet Do Travel recommend Moalboal Eco Lodge, Cebu.
Behave how you would at home
It is even more important when visiting other Countries to be mindful of how much water and electricity you use. Avoid excessively long showers, and turn off the tap when soaping up/washing your hair – did you know that the average shower uses 60 litres of water? Don’t ask for your bed sheets or towels to be changed every day; you wouldn’t do this at home and it wastes a lot of water and electricity.
Also remember to turn lights and switches off when you leave the room, and do not leave air conditioning units on “to cool the room” when you are out for the day as this is wastes a huge amount of electricity.
Walk or cycle
If possible, avoid driving or being driven from one tourist spot to another. Move your feet and enjoy your new destination on foot, many Cities arrange walking tours. Walking is much better for the environment and you’ll see even more of your destination, and encounter local culture.
Cycling is another way of travelling around in an eco-friendly way, and it’s a great way of getting a bit of exercise so you can enjoy a guilt-free cocktail or beer.
Want more advice on how to be a more eco-friendly traveller?
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