Before you leave:
- Unplug all electronics
- Lower or turn off any heating and cooling devices
Flying? Here are some tips:
- Pack only what you need, don't bring extra weight
- Most of the energy is used in take off and landing -- take a direct flight whenever possible. We are flying to San Antonio to avoid this and driving a compact car the hour to Austin
- Take a train! It could reduce your CO2 emissions by 90%
- Reuse those quart sized baggies -- we have two that we reuse over and over again for flying
- Reuse little plastic containers -- pack your own shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, contact solution and all of those other liquids and gels with buying new ones. We have a little travel basket in our hallway closest where we save these things just for this reason
- Cook when possible - we are renting a small cottage where we can stop by the farmer's market or co-op to get food and prepare it ourselves during the day
- Bring a water bottle! Just because you're away doesn't mean you throw your eco-lifestyle out the window
Driving? Here are some tips:
- Check your tire pressure
- Make sure the vehicle is properly serviced
- Look into ways to offset your carbon footprint as we did with Enterprise when we had to give in and rent our first car
- Leave the car at the hotel and walk, cycle, or use public transportation -- we'll be on the bus in Austin!
- Pack only what you need -- don't bring extra weight
- Plan ahead -- it helps avoid getting lost and driving around
- Try to avoid sudden acceleration, engine revving, and sudden braking - it can use up to 30% more fuel. Keep you eyes on the road 3-4 cars ahead
- On the highway, drive with the windows closed to reduce the drag (though this brings up the AC v. windows down issue, find a balance)
- Don't idle
Where to stay?
The most eco place would be a campground; however not always the easiest and best choice for every vacation. We looked into it for our Des Moines trip when the friend were were going to stay with had flooding in her house, but, again, with recent rains and flooding, ever close campsite is sadly closed. Instead, we started looking at Green Hotels which is a guide to find hotels that have sustainability in mind when making business decisions. Of course, the only one listed was in Cedar Rapids. Strike three. I think we are stuck at a motel. At least we can reuse sheets and towels as much as possible. If you are planning a vacation, a great site National Geographic's Center for Sustainable Destinations.
What to eat?
Guthrie and I have taken many mini-road trips. When we are hungry, we work hard to pass up the McDonalds (can't even remember the last time I ate something from there...) and all of the other fast food chains. Sometimes, it is unavoidable, and you are hungry, and you would rather use their bathroom than the one at the Citgo...but I digress. Point is: look for those mom and pop shops and support the local economy. Guthrie and I have found some gems, and some scary places -- but they all at least leave you with a story! When in town, continue to support local and independent shops and restaurants. You'll get a better feel for the city and really be helping the local economy. I know we definitely want to do things that will help Keep Austin Weird :-)
Offset your Carbon Footprint
Use a calculator and then offset it! The link is for TerraPass - it's easy to calculate your flight and you can offset it through them or through another organization. Carbon Fund and Native Energy are also really helpful. It's not perfect, but it's better than doing nothing. Money goes to planting trees and conservation efforts and other projects that reduce CO2 in the air.
Some things to keep in mind, I know we will! Happy and safe travels to you!
Peace!
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