On The Road Again

           It's that time of year, the holidays are upon us. For many Americans this means traveling to see loved ones. Of course the best way to green your travels are to stay close to home or take the train to your destination. However that's not always an option. I love the Earth, but I love my family more. Thanksgiving is the one holiday a year that my huge family gathers under one roof. I missed last year's festivities because of sickness during my pregnancy. This year I plan on being there come Hell or high water....or an extra carbon footprint. But your road trip doesn't have to be an eco-disaster. Here are some tips to help your excursion over the hill to Grandmother's house a little greener.

Rent a Hybrid: Not all of us can own an electric car or the newest hybrid SUV, but you can rent one. It is an extra cost, but if you can swing it these babies can get upwards of 60mpg which will save a ton on gas.



Go the Speed Limit: I know, crazy right? But Ms. Daisy really was on to something. Your fuel mileage is better on the open road when you're not flooring it. Plus, you'll thank me when you pass that trooper hiding in the underpass and you were actually going the speed limit.




Skip the Fast Food: Yes, it's convenient, but it's also hugely wasteful and not so healthy to boot. Besides, during the holidays we are on our way to giant feasts. Do we really need that large fry and milkshake? Stock up on your favorite snacks pack them in your reusable snack bags. Fill up your reusable bottle with your beverage of choice & pack a small cooler with backups to get you through. If you stop for java don't forget your reusable coffee mug. You may need the pick-me-up or if you're like me, you just can't resist that pumpkin spice (decaf) goodness. Most places will even give you a small discount for using your own cup. Are you sensing a theme here? Reusable, reusable, reusable!

Line Up Green Lodging: If  you, your mother, your uncle, and who is that anyway? is too much for you under one roof during the holidays look for eco-savvy hotels, motels, or B&B's. Check out The Green Hotels Association or Environmentally Friendly Hotels for accommodations near your destination.


Offset it:  Plan some carbon offsets into your vacation budget to try to negate the carbon emissions of your trip. The money you spend on carbon offsets will be used to plant trees or support a renewable energy project, thereby “offsetting” the carbon emissions generated during your travel. Check out Carbon Neutral or Green Tags USA to calculate carbon emissions and purchase greentags.


Have a safe and happy holiday and as always, LESS IS MORE!