Whether you’re hopping on a plane to a faraway island or exploring your own neighborhood, there are so many ways to say hello to summertime adventures with open, eco-conscious arms!
Here are some simple tips to have the most earth-friendly vacation this summer.
8 tips for the ultimate green summer vacay
1. Be green as you get around
Sometimes a flight is the only way to go. But if not, check out other ways to get from place to place like trains and buses. Doing a lot of neighborhood hopping within your destination city? Consider skipping a rental car and rely on local transportation like subways, bikes, and even your feet to sightsee and explore.
2. Embrace local
From eating at farmers markets and family-owned restaurants to shopping at small boutiques, embracing the local scene is an earth-friendly way to support the community you’re visiting.
3. Treat your hotel like a second home
All of the little green-friendly efforts we practice in our own homes are just as important in a new place. Remember to turn off the lights when you leave your hotel room and resist the temptation to leave the AC on if you’re going to be gone for the entire day.
4. Bring your reusable gear
Making room for a reusable coffee mug, water bottle, straw, and utensils in an already over-packed suitcase isn’t always the most fun ritual. But vacations can translate into tons of plastic and styrofoam waste (airport pit stops, coffee runs, quick meals on-the-go, you get the picture). Remember your reusable necessities and it’ll make all of your summertime treats taste that much better because it won’t be at the expense of the planet.
Our “Be The Change” reusable bamboo straws come with a handy pouch, making them a perfect traveling companion.
Can’t miss your java fix no matter where you are? Then don’t forget to pack our “Live Gently Upon This Earth” reusable coffee mug!
5. Explore mindfully
Stay on the trails. While we love a good adventure, not when it comes at the risk of Mother Earth. And of course, never litter, even if it means holding onto a piece of trash for three hours until you spot a trash can.
6. Book your trip with care
Eco-conscious traveling has never been easier thanks to organizations like Kind Traveler, which is similar to Expedia but with a compassionate twist. By booking through Kind Traveler, you’ll give a $10 nightly donation to a local charity to the neighborhood you’re visiting. Plus, the website features a list of curated hotels and properties (with special rates!).
7. Protect your skin and the planet
Especially if you’re visiting somewhere that involves lounging on the beach or exploring outside all day, keeping your skin safe from the sun is essential. Unfortunately, lots of sunscreens are loaded with chemicals that are destructive to the environment (and some even bleach corals). Look out for eco-friendly sunscreen options like Life Basics SPF 30 All Natural Sunscreen, which is also vegan-friendly.
8. Vacay with a staycation
Staycations are underrated ways to do some touristy things in your neighborhood that have been on your list for months (or maybe years) and see your home from a different perspective. Added bonus: you’ll save money and your carbon footprint will be lower for not hopping on an airplane.
Looking for vacation inspiration? Don’t miss these posts:
- The best planet-friendly destinations you have to visit
- 6 unforgettable vegan destinations you don’t want to miss
And if you’re as excited for summer as we are, check out our other summer-inspired blog posts:
