One of the things I love about travel (and I bet you do, too), is experiencing the local wildlife. There’s nothing like seeing a whale breaching or dolphins frolicking to make a magical travel memory. However, with more and more people traveling, protecting the environment and its wildlife has become a more urgent concern.
In December I had the opportunity to visit an eco-friendly destination in Mexico. While conservation of the environment has always been one of my core values, traveling to this remote destination that relies on eco-tourism posed the question, what can we do to travel greener?
I did some internet research and found The Nature Conservancy a group of dedicated scientists, leaders, and committed citizens, that began more than 65 years ago. TNC focuses on areas where science shows they can have the greatest impact.
You can download their free e-guide The Everyday Sustainability Guide — Seven Easy Ways To Contribute To A Cleaner, Greener Planet.
Contents
How to travel more sustainably
An easy way to travel greener and save money while leaving less of a carbon footprint is to fly less frequently and if you do fly, minimize the number of connections. Hey, I’m all for fewer connections. That’s easy! It also helps to fly carry-on.
Aside from becoming a less frequent flyer, another great tip is to staycation, or take a road trip close to home.
I live in Texas, a huge state, so there is plenty to see and do. Even in my hometown of Dallas, a day out in the neighborhood often results in some pretty great experiences, like finding an authentic Italian gelateria! Now, every time I go there, I imagine I’m in Rome. How’s that for cutting back on air travel?
Other great ways to travel greener and save money
Train travel
Depending on the route, the best part about train travel is that you get to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. I’m a huge fan of train travel and wish it was more accessible in the USA.
Group tours
If you were thinking about renting a car or hiring a private car, consider joining a group tour–you’ll save money and it’s more eco-friendly. Check out some of these Intrepid Travel Reviews for ideas of what’s available.
Unplug electrics
Another tip: Before leaving your house, unplug all your small appliances and electronics. When plugged into electrical outlets they drain more power than you’d imagine, even if they are not on. As a bonus, your electric bill will be smaller, too!
If you’re still reading this I know that you too, care about our planet, and want to do something to make it a better place for all. One baby step today makes for one giant step towards a better future.
Won’t you join me? Download the Everyday Sustainability Guide and begin today.
This is a sponsored post I wrote on behalf of The Nature Conservancy. All opinions are 100% mine.
4 comments
Very nice post, it’s very useful article for travel lovers.
[…] of any WOW trip. Also, did you know that traveling with a small local tour group is one way to travel greener? There are no big tour busses — Because your group will never be larger than 16 people. […]
Hi Penny, this is the best practical advice that I have read about saving a travel. I love your idea and it really helps.
Good to know. Thanks!