Catch flights, not feelings. That’s the saying, right? But, as you may know, traveling comes with many feelings. You might be worried about forgetting to pack something, the anxiety of delayed flights, or stressing over the perfect itinerary for your family.
However, you also need to think about the environment’s feelings. Yes, even as weird as that sounds, it’s something you should take into account. Remember, the planet is the only home we know and we need to take care of it. So, traveling in an eco-responsible manner is a must, especially if you’re with your family.
Now, traveling responsibly and mindful of the environment is more than being aware of single-use plastic. There’s way more to it. The tips below will teach you how to do so.
Travel Light
For some reason, many people believe that traveling is the best opportunity to strut the streets of a foreign place as if it were a runway. Thus, luggages overflow and many times cause the purchase of extra luggage. But that’s so unnecessary, especially since overflowing the aircraft with luggage is not fuel-efficient and will emit extra for carbon dioxide, which isn’t the best for the environment. In order to avoid this, you and your family must pack light. One carry-on each and a personal item (if you must). Whatever doesn’t fit in these luggages is not needed. Think of the essentials ONLY!
Prioritize Public Transport
Hauling around a group of people on a vacation is not an easy feat. However, that’s no excuse to burden the earth more. You and your family need to be aware of the impact of carbon footprint. Luckily, carbon footprint can decrease by using public transit because it reduces energy consumption and harmful carbon dioxide greenhouse gas emissions (the culprit of environmental pollution), hence a better option than traveling via a private vehicle.
Think about the plastic
By now, everyone should know that plastic bottles and straws have been blacklisted. That’s settled, right? But have you ever paid attention to the amount of plastic bags that can get used during a trip? Oftentimes, trips make shopping extremely attractive, which can result in getting stuck with plastic bags. This is why it’s best you equip your family with reusable bags everywhere you go. Your purchases can easily fit in a reusable bag and, hey, you’ll be promoting an eco-responsible travel experience for everyone.
Think about Turning Off the Light
Renewable energy makes the world go ‘round, but that doesn’t mean there’s an abundance of it. For this reason, you want to make sure you use the resources provided to you with caution. Turn off the lights wherever you are staying, try not to misuse the water (for example, do laundry when it’s absolutely necessary), and pay mind to the rules the locals live by.
Make Digital a Priority
Some of the greatest moments of a trip are sightseeing or checking out the local attractions they have, like museums and parks. These places are more than likely going to ask you for a ticket or a pass, and it will be up to you to make the eco-friendly decision. Rather than printing out your tickets, opt for e-tickets. For one, it’s easier and faster. Besides, reducing paper waste is such a great way to care for the Earth.
Overall, you want to be as selfless as possible when you and your family are abroad. It is important to give others the opportunity to enjoy the world, too, and that won’t be possible if people continue to travel in a reckless manner.