March 2016 Green Tip: Three Ideas for Eco-Travel this Spring

As the quarter draws to the close and we begin thinking about spring break and spring travel plans we may have, it is important to plan ahead to avoid causing an unnecessary impact on the environment of your travel destination. The ever-increasing costs of transportation and lodging mean that the most affordable vacation options are often the most green!

Greenest - Stay-cation: Take a Hike!

Spring has already begun to paint Santa Cruz with blooms, and a hike is one of the best ways to get out and enjoy this natural beauty. Even avid hikers know that there's always another trail to explore here in Santa Cruz. If you haven't had the opportunity to take a trek along one of the many routes located throughout the city and county, the upcoming break and weekends are the perfect time to try something new! Decide on whichever trail looks best at EveryTrail, HillTromper, SantaCruz.com, or ask a friend or colleague. Whichever one you decide, make sure to pack plenty of water in your reusable bottle! Hydration is key to a great hike!

Greener - Local Destination: Sleepaway Camp

There are many gorgeous campgrounds in the greater Santa Cruz area that are a perfect getaway for anyone who loves to enjoy the natural beauty of the redwood coast. Bring a tent or sleep out under the stars, and make sure to pack enough water or bring a filtration system. (Are you noticing a trend?) Find a listing of campgrounds, parks, and beaches at the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks website. For day trips, consider any of the fourteen state parks in the county. A comprehensive index of state parks and helpful information can be found at the California Parks and Recreation website.

Green - Long Distance Travel

If you've already booked your flight to Cabo for the break, fear not! There's still opportunity to make sustainable choices. Be thoughtful of where you're spending your money while abroad. Local economies can often be heavily influenced by tourism, so make sure you're comfortable with where your dollar is going. Research your hotel options and make sure that they're doing their best to make sustainable choices. And lastly, consider offsetting your long-distance car or air travel by purchasing carbon offsets. There is a lot of debate over the merit of these offsets, but we think it's worth reading up on and deciding if it's right for you. Remember, the best things to do for the environment don't require any offsets!


How do you make your spring travels green? Post in the comments!

Happy Travels!