How to be Eco-Friendly When You Travel
Being environmentally-friendly has become somewhat of a lifestyle choice rather than something we should consciously be doing just because it's socially frowned upon if we don't try to reduce our carbon footprint.
Now don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining about this new way of life and nor do I have that attitude towards being eco-friendly, but it should now be something that we're doing naturally and that shouldn't stop just because we go on holiday.
I know we can't go abroad this year and I'm not sure when we can get going safely again, but whether you're reading this in 2021 or five years down the line when we can finally go overseas again, these hints and tips should apply no matter where it is you're going. So I hope you have fun, but give a few of these things a go if you're looking to spend your summer somewhere else this year :)
Choose accommodation that's eco-conscious
There are loads of different hotels and even private cottages and lodges etc that are looking to reduce their carbon footprint right across the world. From Japan and China to Spain and England, there will be a sustainable place for you to relax at the end of a long, busy day as a tourist.
But seeing as we aren't allowed to go out of the country this year (really), here's a list of some of the most environmentally-friendly hotels across the UK. Take a look and see what you think - it might just be a little bit of you!
Shop locally wherever possible
Whether you're sunning it up in Spain or choosing to see what the UK has to offer, there's no excuse for you not to shop locally. Not only will their carbon footprint be low already, as their products won't have clocked up air miles, for example, but they'll really enjoy the custom, especially after the last year or so with no or very low footfall.
You'll often find that locally-bought products will be of much higher quality, so you'll very much get what you pay for when it comes to this. Instead of going for a McDonald's breakfast first thing in the morning, go for a walk and see what the local high street has to offer. You might be able to find a sweet little cafe or tea room offering up fresh produce and locally-sourced teas and coffees, perhaps.
Venture outside of your comfort zone regardless of whether you're going abroad or staying within your own country. I also find that shopping in local stores for souvenirs is far more thoughtful and unique. No matter what it is, you'll look at it in years to come and remember exactly where it was you were in the world and even the shop you bought it from.
Keep single plastic use to a minimum
The best way to do this is to simply bring reusable and refillable EVERYTHING. From water bottles and sandwich containers to straws and napkins, there'll be a reusable alternative for every single one of those things and going on holiday shouldn't stop you from bringing those things with you. Even making and bringing your own sandwiches out with you will help to keep waste down and your carbon footprint low, even when on the go.
Look to conserve water, if you can
Refrain from having long, steamy showers just because it's not coming off any of your own bills. While it's nice to spend to have a relaxing bath or whack the heating on max, you should still look to conserve the water and the energy you use on a daily basis, whether you're at home or not. We shouldn't just be conscious of this because it affects how much our bills are, we should be looking to be careful to help save the planet, whether you're in a hotel or your own home.
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I hope you enjoyed this blog post! Let me know where you'll be going this year or if you're going to be saving it until travel restrictions lift again. I'm still not sure what we're doing with our holiday, but it looks like we'll be moving it along to next year instead. At least it gives us something to look forward to :) I'll be seeing you again really soon with a brand new blog post!
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