10 green travel tips
1. Travel responsibly
The public transport system in Britain is excellent. You’ll find you can travel easily between destinations and within cities and it’s also the cheapest way to get around. Try to incorporate ‘car-free’ days into your holiday and remember cycling is also a great environmentally friendly way to get around. And if you’re travelling within a city, why not see if it’s walking distance? – nothing beats seeing a city on foot and it also keeps you fit!
2. Reduce energy use in your hotel room
Did you know that by switching the TV off stand-by you can reduce its energy consumption by 25%? Or that laundry consumes almost 40% of the average hotel's energy for hot water? Simple things like using your towels more than once, turning down the heating and switching off appliances can make a big difference, so make sure you think about these things during your trip.
3. Stay in green accommodation
More and more accommodation providers are becoming conscious of their negative effects on the environment and making efforts to counteract them. See our information on green accommodation and use our accommodation search to find accommodation that’s certified green.
4. Reduce waste
The miniature toiletries you find in hotels contribute to thousands of bags of waste every year, so bring your favourite toiletries from home to reduce waste. It’s also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle and pack your own cloth bag to carry any purchases rather than using plastic bags. And don’t forget rechargeable batteries for your camera and other gadgets.
5. Buy local products
Support local business and independent shops where the products are more likely to be less energy-intensive in their production. Sample regional food specialities and don’t miss a local farmers'markets where you can discover delicious selections of locally sourced meats, cheeses, and organic produce.
7. Recycle guide books
Once you’ve finished your trip, pass on your brochures and guidebooks to a friend or second-hand bookshop. Or why not leave them at your hotel for another guest to use – that way you’ll have less to carry back too!
8. Try volunteer travel
On a volunteer break you can work alongside experts and other volunteers on a special project. Whether you’re interested in conservation, wildlife or organising special events, there’s a volunteer break for you in Britain.
9. Talk to a local
Don’t miss out of the best sights and activities near to where you are staying. Ask for recommendations about local things to see and do, what’s typical for the area and enjoy things that are locally traditional such as festivals and attractions.
10. Respect the area and above all have fun
Be fair, travel with goodwill and take personal responsibility for your actions and their impact on the people and places you visit. And remember, being responsible during your trip doesn’t need to be a hassle, or mean that you can’t enjoy your visit, it just helps to ensure that you and others can come back to enjoy the same thing time and time again.