How to be more sustainable while traveling

By now, it’s likely that you are familiar with the term “climate crisis,” something that we are hearing more of than ever. We are not only hearing about it but actually facing it. Some of us are already aware of how it is happening and have adopted some environmentally friendly habits in our daily lives. However, how to be more sustainable while traveling? For example, how your choice of transport can have a huge impact on your CO2 emissions.

Traveling by plane can be the most convenient option, but…

Although there are many different ways to travel, most of the time, we opt for plane travel to reach more distant destinations. There is no doubt that traveling by plane is faster. However, considering the consequences, is it still worth it? Let’s delve into it!

Why traveling by plane is no longer the best option?

In a world where air travel has been the norm for its speed and price, a growing number of travelers are opting for slower, more sustainable journeys. Overland travel can be an exciting way to see the land you’re traveling through in a more tangible way. With the pros of: comfort, scenic routes, unexpected encounters, and spontaneous detours, there are more and more reasons to ditch airport terminal wait times. This trend is on the rise, with ethical travel specialists noting a crazy 220% increase in interest in slow travel holidays in 2022.

We understand that sometimes flights are necessary, but we want to convince you that your trip from Brussels to Paris is so much better spent on a bus or train.

Sustainable traveling: What can you do instead of traveling by plane?

There are so many alternative ways to choose when traveling sustainably. Traveling by car, bus, or train is not only more sustainable but also more convenient for shorter distances. No 2-hour wait times, getting to a far-out airport, plus those luggage hoarders among you can travel without fear of a 60€ excess luggage fee. Even riding a bicycle or hitchhiking is a fantastic option for those seeking adventure. Naturally, cycling to farther-off locations is not realistic, but using a bus or train is an excellent alternative to flying.

Traveling by train

Traveling by train is an excellent choice for environmentally conscious travelers. Trains emit much fewer pollutants compared to planes, making them a greener option. In addition to being eco-friendly, train travel often offers budget-friendly tickets, with potential discounts for students.

Comfort is another aspect to consider. Trains can be the best option in terms of comfort; you can get up and down when you please and stretch your legs. Moreover, reliability is a strong suit for trains, as departure times are generally more predictable, even in adverse weather conditions. An added bonus is the scenic beauty one can enjoy during the journey.

If you still need convincing, just to add to the pros, participating in the Eco-Wanderer campaign, especially for Interrail or Eurail pass holders, can unlock discounts of up to 20% off accommodation at Famous Hostels. What more could you want?

Eco Wanderer campaign

Take a look at Europe’s Famous Hostels campaign and get to know how it is possible to get a good discount on your accommodation while being an environmentally friendly traveler.

We will point out that participation in this campaign is only possible if you are an Interrail or Eurail pass holder, read it here on how to become such. Once you have the pass, take advantage of all the benefits it has to offer!

Eco Wanderer

Traveling by bus

Public transportation, in general, is the most environmentally friendly option when traveling somewhere further. If you choose to travel by public transport instead of a private car, you will reduce CO2 emissions by almost half. Traveling by bus not only minimizes gas emissions but also noise pollution. Additionally, buses tend to be a way more cost-effective option than other types of transport. Traveling by bus gives you flexibility in choosing departure times, bus stops, and routes.

Join the Eco Wanderer initiative by traveling with FlixBus

Going by bus may be the only option to reach some destinations. When traveling within Europe, we highly recommend using FlixBus which is one of the most in-demand companies when traveling. FlixBus is the best possible option combining comfort with wallet-friendly traveling.

Choosing to go by FlixBus you have a chance to participate in Europe’s Famous Hostels Eco Wanderer campaign and save up to 20% on your accommodations. 

Traveling by car in a sustainable way

Here, we are talking about car-sharing, not having a private ride. By driving less and sharing the ride it reduces your carbon footprint as well as decreases noise pollution. Most car-sharing companies provide modern cars that are more energy efficient while at the same time less polluting. Using car sharing instead of having a ride by yourself ensures fewer traffic jams, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Sharing will be beneficial not only for the environment but definitely for your wallet too. Without owning a private car you can forget about some extra costs regarding taxes, insurance maintenance, and parking.

Here you can find some good transport options using a carpool.

Traveling by bicycle

Perfect solution for short trips, especially when living in the city. In cities, bikes even tend to be the most practical and less time-consuming transport to choose from. By choosing cycling you can reduce potential emissions by ~75%.

Barcelona, Spain – Photo by Paolo Chiabrando on Unsplash

Let’s think ahead by traveling sustainably!

Even if these options can be more time-consuming, let’s think long-term for the planet and ourselves. Opting for another mode of transportation instead of the plane is the easiest way to do it.

Keep in mind that each small decision and action taken will make a positive impact on the environment in the short and long term.

Want to practice sustainable traveling even more? Check out this post and become a sustainable traveler.

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