Eco-friendly travel tips for green adventurers

Every now and then, it’s great to let your adventurous side loose, visit somewhere that’s off the usual tourist radar and do something you’ve never done before. However, with work, responsibilities and a lack of funds, it sometimes seems like the closest you’re going to get to an adventure is watching Indiana Jones on your telly.

Not only that, but if you do get a chance to go off on your very own adventure, you may think you will have to sacrifice your commitment to a greener planet and choose between activity-filled holidays and natural breaks. Fortunately, this isn’t the case anymore as ecotourism holidays and the adventurous travel can now go hand in hand. There are many destinations, within countries such as Sweden, which aim to combine adventure breaks and eco-tourism.

Whether it’s mountaintop monasteries or windswept national parks holidays for the green-minded, must-see attractions are commonly set in rugged surroundings, meaning they’re also suited to people who like more adventurous travel.

To ensure you make your trip as green as possible, here are few things to remember:

Go local

Support the local and regional economy wherever you are by using local suppliers and tour guides. Not only will this ensure you are more likely to discover the best places to eat and drink, it will also help the local community thrive.

Think about your water usage

Many areas across the globe suffer from water shortages. During your travels it’s worth keeping a close eye out for any information regarding water use as this is not a problem that only affects countries with hot climates. Taking showers instead of baths is an obvious way of saving water whilst on holiday, but another way of helping the local area is by staying in accommodation that aims to recycle or reuse as much water as possible. Information is widely available online, and if you’re not sure, ask before you book.

Buy locally

Local markets and stalls are brilliant places to pick up some grub, while also being the lifeblood of many of these towns and villages. The food is always fresher and getting to know the local sellers will invariably lead to some great adventures and tales. Local produce and handicrafts are also cheaper and let’s be honest, wouldn’t your friends and family rather be given something made by a local craftsman than some tacky piece of plastic from a hotel gift shop?

Turn it off

You wouldn’t leave all your lights, the television and the air conditioning on at home when you leave your house, so why do it while you’re on holiday? Check everything is off before you leave and make sure the TV is off, not just on standby!

Buy carefully

Never buy products made from endangered animals and plants because not only will Customs officials probably confiscate them on your return, these diminishing parts of nature also need all the help we can give them.

Think about transport

If you want a truly eco-friendly holiday then why don’t you travel to your destination by public transport? The nearer your destination is, the smaller your carbon footprint will be and remember you don’t always have to fly halfway around the world to have a nice break. Of course, some locations are impossible to reach unless you fly, but this doesn’t mean you can’t do your bit when you get there.

Take buses and trains while abroad as much as possible and where you can, cycle or walk around the area you’re visiting. Not only is this a greener way to travel, you also see things you may have missed if you’d have been in a car or plane.

So there you have it, adventure holidays don’t have to be all about gas-guzzling aeroplanes and 4x4s, there is a way that you can appease your inner adventurer and save the planet at the same time.