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Planning a summer getaway with the kids? You can still go green on vacation by following these environmentally-friendly tips. And if you’re staying in town, revisit last summer’s green guide and try our better barbecuing suggestions. Happy summer!
- Before you plan a trip, consider a “staycation” and rediscover your own hometown.
- If you want to travel, consider an eco-destination that will keep your carbon footprints light. (Just spend some time on Google to get ideas.)
- Join a nature conservation volunteer group at your destination for an afternoon or a day beautifying the area.
- Find a green hotel, preferably one that offers kitchenettes so you can prepare some of your own meals.
- Try a home swap.
- Book direct flights to reduce your carbon footprint, and purchase carbon offsets for your trip.
- Travel by train (one of the greenest forms of transportation!).
- Use electronic tickets instead of paper ones.
- Pack lightly.
- Unplug everything in your house before you leave (appliances use electricity even when turned off).
- Rent a hybrid vehicle. Or walk, rent bikes or use public transportation.
- Bring your own toiletries (many hotels don’t recycle the complimentary shampoo and lotion bottles).
- Keep your showers short.
- Eat locally by choosing local restaurants instead of chains.
- Pack healthy snacks to keep you and the kids fueled during the day. Bring your own reusable water bottles to fill up.
- Carry reusable bags with you for shopping and souvenirs.
- Reuse your towels and linens.
- Buy local souvenirs.
- Try a new Friday-night tradition, like celebrating Shabbat outside on the beach. Pack battery-operated candles and a picnic meal, and afterward take a walk or sit and watch the sunset.
