Europe is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
In this blog post, we will discuss 12 eco-friendly ways to travel in Europe. We hope that you find these tips helpful and that they help you have a more sustainable trip.
1. Use public transportation
Whenever possible, try to use public transportation instead of renting a car. Not only is it better for the environment, but it can also be more cost-effective.
In many European cities, there is an extensive network of trains, buses, and trams that can take you wherever you need to go. You can find maps of the public transportation system online or at your hotel.
2. Consider renting a hybrid car
Light trails in Amsterdam
If you are renting a car, consider renting a hybrid or electric vehicle. These cars have significantly lower emissions than traditional petrol or diesel cars and can help you do your part to reduce your carbon footprint.
They can be found in most major cities across Europe and can often be found for a similar price to traditional rental cars.
3. Pack light for your trip
Packing light not only makes your life easier by not having to lug around a heavy bag everywhere but also helps reduce your carbon emissions.
The heavier the plane, the more fuel it burns, so packing lighter bags will help to offset this impact. Plus, you’ll be able to move around more easily and won’t have to pay extra baggage fees.
4. Stay in eco-friendly accommodations
When booking your accommodation, look for hotels or hostels that are certified eco-friendly. You can find these types of accommodations by doing a quick search online.
Many hotels and hostels have implemented measures to minimize their environmental impact, such as using energy-efficient lighting and equipment and recycling or composting waste.
5. Eat local food as much as possible
One of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint while traveling is to eat local. There are plenty of great reviews and guides online to help you find the best local restaurants.
Eating locally grown and produced food cuts down on the emissions associated with transportation, as well as supports the local economy. Plus, it’s often fresher and tastier to try some of the local specialties!
6. Bring your own reusable water bottle and coffee mug to avoid using disposable cups
Whenever possible, try to bring your own reusable water bottle and coffee mug with you when traveling. You can find one that fits your style and personality easily and they’re great for the environment.
This will help to reduce the number of disposable cups that end up in landfills. Many coffee shops will even give you a discount if you bring your own mug.
7. Bring your own reusable shopping bags
When shopping, bring along some reusable bags instead of using disposable plastic bags. Many Europeans already practice this, so it’s easy to find places that sell reusable bags.
Plus, it’s better for the environment and can help you avoid having to pay plastic bag fees.
8. Avoid using single-use plastics
Try to avoid using single-use plastics as much as possible while traveling. This includes things like straws, plastic wrap, and disposable cutlery.
This will make a huge difference because plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose and is one of the biggest pollutants in our oceans.
Plus, many European countries are starting to ban or tax single-use plastics, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
9. Book trips with tour operators that focus on sustainable tourism practices
When booking tours and activities, look for tour operators that focus on sustainable tourism practices.
This means they are using environmentally-friendly methods and supporting local communities. They also often have a lower impact on the places they visit.
10. Educate yourself about the issues facing the places you’re visiting
Before you travel, take some time to educate yourself about the environmental and social issues facing the places you’re visiting. You can do this by reading travel blogs, watching documentaries, and talking to people who live there.
This will help you be more aware of the impact you have on the places you visit and how you can help make a difference.
11. Shop at local markets instead of big supermarkets
Whenever possible, try to shop at local markets instead of big supermarkets. This helps to support local farmers and businesses, and it is generally more environmentally friendly.
Fresh food is abundant and delicious, especially since it’s prepared right there in the store. Plus, because it’s cooked right there in the store, it’s almost always more nutritious as well.
12. Walk or bike whenever possible
Walking or biking is a great way to explore a new place, and it’s also good for the environment.
See if you can rent bikes from your hotel or hostel, or walk to nearby attractions. Download Google maps to find the best walking paths and explore the city or town on foot.
This will help you save money on transportation and get some exercise in as well.
Final Note
Every year, millions of people flock to its natural parks, cities and villages, eager to explore its history and culture. While it is a beautiful place to visit, it’s also important to be mindful of our impact on the environment.
Eco-friendly travel doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult—it can simply be a matter of being mindful of your impact and making small changes to your travel habits.
By following these tips, you can help make a difference and ensure that your trip is sustainable. Do you have any eco-friendly travel tips to share? Let us know on social media!
