Hey there, RYSERS! Summer's here, and that means it's time for sandy beaches, refreshing pool dips, and exciting travels. But with all that fun comes the planning. How can we enjoy summer while keeping our planet happy and healthy? Don't worry, climate heroes, we've got your back! Here's your ultimate guide to sustainable summer travel from affluent trips to minimalist living.

Staycation vs. Travel

Staycations are an awesome way to enjoy an eco-friendly holiday and explore your own backyard. Whether you're in a bustling city with museums and parks or a serene countryside perfect for train rides, staycations let you reconnect with your local community and discover hidden gems!

If the allure of distant lands is too strong to resist, here are some tips to keep your carbon footprint in check:

Choose Sustainable Transportation

Train: Hop on a train for an eco-friendly and super fun travel experience. Trains emit fewer greenhouse gases and offer scenic views and the chance to meet fellow travelers. Luxury train trips, such as the Rocky Mountaineer that traverses the Canadian Rockies, or the Venice Orient Express from London to Venice, are a wonderful way to explore our beautiful planet. Regardless of whether you prefer to travel in style or in coach, it’s an earth-friendly journey and an adventure rolled into one!

Bike or Scooter: Explore your vacation spot on two wheels. Grabbing a bicycle is not only great exercise and eco-friendly, but also a fantastic way to soak in the local vibe. Many cities have bike-sharing programs, and electric scooters and e-bikes are nearly ubiquitous in most larger cities.

Electric Vehicles: If you opt for driving and need to rent a car, electric vehicles are a great way to get from point A to B in eco-style while reducing your carbon footprint. The amount of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations has exploded over the years, but it’s still wise to make sure there are enough along your route.

Air Travel: If you’ve decided to seek out greener pastures that involve air travel, here are some ways to minimize your carbon footprint.

Avoid short flights if possible. Driving an electric vehicle or taking a train is better for short distances and allow you to soak in the scenery along the way.
Choose direct flights. Stopovers use more fuel during takeoff and landing and you don’t need to go out of your way wasting precious time and energy.
Pack light. Heavier luggage means more fuel consumption, and backaches!
Buy carbon credits to offset your air travel. Many airlines offer this option to support projects that reduce emissions.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Eco-Resorts and Green Hotels: Look for places with green certifications like LEED or Green Globe. Browsing Expedia Eco Hotels and checking off sustainability as a criteria can show you some great options ranging from spots that save energy, conserve water, and/or reduce waste.

Campsites and Glamping: Get closer to nature by camping. Choose campsites that follow Leave No Trace principles. If you prefer a bit more comfort, try glamping (glamorous camping) for an eco-conscious yet cozy experience in a variety of upscale tents and campers such as Autocamp in multiple locations throughout the U.S.

Home Sharing: Platforms like ecobnb.com offer eco-friendly homes. Look for properties that emphasize sustainability, like those powered by renewable energy, with recycling programs, or built with green materials.

Pack Light and Green

Minimalist Packing: Travel light to make your journey easier and reduce fuel consumption. Stick to essentials and versatile clothing that can be used for more than one occasion. Avoid travel size items as they are single-use plastics. Opt instead to transfer your own toiletries into smaller sized containers to bring along.

Eco-Friendly Products: Pack reusable items like water bottles, shopping bags, and travel utensils. Choose biodegradable toiletries and reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.

Local Souvenirs: Instead of mass-produced trinkets, take digital photos or keep a travel diary. If you want a physical reminder, support local artisans and buy souvenirs made from sustainable materials.

Respect Nature and Wildlife

Stay on Trails: Stick to designated trails to protect native plants and animals. Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing them.

Eco-Tours: Choose tour operators that prioritize environmental education and conservation. Sustainable activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife watching are great with the right guides.

Clean Up: Always carry a small bag to collect any trash you find or utilize whilst in nature in order to prevent plastic pollution blowing into rivers, lakes, and oceans. Leaving places better than you found them is the RYSIT way!

Eat and Shop Local

Farm-to-Table Dining: Seek out restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients. This reduces the carbon footprint of food transportation and supports local farmers. Plus, fresh local produce tastes amazing!

Local Markets: Visit farmers' markets to buy fresh produce and handmade goods. It's a fun way to experience the local culture and reduce the demand for imported products.

Eco-Friendly Shops: Look for stores that sell sustainable products like clothing made from organic materials, recycled goods, and zero-waste items.

Conclusion

Sustainable summer travel doesn't mean sacrificing fun or adventure. By making mindful choices and embracing eco-friendly practices, you can explore new destinations while minimizing your environmental impact. So pack your bags, hop on a train or bike once at your destination, and get ready for an unforgettable and summer journey. Safe travels, eco-adventurers!

Sustainable Summer Travel: Fun Ways to Explore and Protect the Planet