Traveling Green

Summertime is right around the corner, which for most of us means vacation planning time. But just because vacationing means getting away from it all doesn’t mean you still can’t be eco-friendly! A cool site called TravelSense.org gives some great tips on how you can lessen your footprint wherever you go:

• If possible, reconsider flying: Planes have always been an expensive, time-consuming hassle, so why not think of other transportation options? Trains offer a very scenic route, are less expensive and you spend less time in security lines. Not to mention they are easier on the environment than planes! If you’re traveling abroad in Europe, trains are the best way to get around.
• Use public transportation in cities: If you’re going to be in a big city on your vacation, I doubt you want to be spending your time in a traffic jam. Check out the city’s bus routes, subways, rails and ferries for travel that is easier on you and the environment. In fact, some public transportation systems are so widely used that they are switching to alternative fuels to ease their environmental burden.
• Drive an environmentally friendly car: If you need to do a lot of driving while on vacation, consider renting a hybrid or an economy (compact) car to reduce gasoline use. If you’re driving your own car, check out 8 Goes Green’s post about how to make your car more eco-friendly.
• Use eco-friendly services: Check to see if your hotel has a linen-reuse program, recycle bins, energy-efficient lighting and low-flush toilets. Businesses are proud to be green, so look for any green certificates on display.

Follow these few easy steps and you’ll be feeling better about helping the environment while you relax on your vacation!