Are you planning a cross country road trip in the USA, but not sure how you can make it eco-friendly? A new survey by Washington State University reveals that 75% of travelers in America intend to prioritize sustainability when traveling. However, being an ecotourist is not easy, especially when traveling by car. Using an internal combustion engine inevitably increases your carbon footprint. Plus, your habits, from packing to eating, outdoor adventures, and even your choice of water bottles while on the road, have a negative impact on the environment. Fortunately, you can make the great American road trip sustainable if you choose routes wisely, drive fuel-efficient vehicles, and settle for eco-friendly destinations. Packing reusable water bottles is also crucial to keep hydrated while being eco-conscious throughout the journey.
Hybrid cars combine fuel efficiency and usability
Fully embracing the Great American road trip involves driving around multiple states, and that means using large amounts of gasoline or diesel. When driving, fossil fuels burn and release greenhouse gasses like carbon dioxide and methane, all of which build up in the atmosphere and contribute towards global warming and climate change. Investing in a fuel-efficient vehicle like a hybrid is one way to make your driving less harmful to surroundings.
Because hybrid vehicles function with a battery and internal combustion engine, you can switch to electric and gas-powered mode when needed. The top rated hybrid vehicles provide greener credentials without the range limitations of fully electric vehicles. For example, you can use electric mode when driving on roads with heavy traffic to maximize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. When driving on highways or back roads, you could use the engine mode. That way, you can make the most of cruise control for consistent speed and enhanced fuel efficiency.
Pack With Sustainability In Mind
More luggage weight increases fuel consumption. This is something you should remember anytime you are tempted to fill your vehicle with suitcases full of clothes and shoes or outdoor equipment that you are unlikely to actually use. Even the random junk like empty drink bottles that tends to accumulate in cars can all mount up. Clear the vehicle completely before you set off and be ruthless about traveling light. Pack items you genuinely need and ideally, things you can reuse during the trip. For instance, pack fewer pieces of clothing you can wear for at least two days before washing.
Instead of carrying plastic or metal water bottles, consider anti-bottles or collapsible bottles. These bottles are lightweight, can be folded when empty, and require little space in your car when filled with water. With reusable anti-bottles, you and your travel companions will stay hydrated, leading to more focus and less fatigue without worrying about polluting spaces. Also, carry cups and plates you can use to serve food at campsites.
Pick A Sustainable Destination
When searching for destinations, ask yourself if they allow you to maximize outdoor adventure, without causing pollution. Examples of eco-friendly road trip destinations are the Grand Canyon in Arizona, The Rocky Mountains, Colorado, Florida Keys, and Chicago Illinois. In the Florida Keys, your eco-travel experience will involve exploring The Dry Tortugas National Park and joining the Coral Restoration Founder to restore coral reefs. After a long drive to Rocky Mountain in Colorado, you can take scenic drives through the park. Or enjoy sustainable hiking, which entails following trails to avoid disturbing wildlife and collect waste along the way.
Other eco-friendly activities to consider when choosing a destination include kayaking while collecting plastics on the go and cycling on electric bikes. Nature photography, watching birds at a distance, visiting organic farms and volunteering in local conservation projects also make your car trip green. Apart from adventure, opt for sustainable accommodation. This includes camping and glamping on sites that use solar powered lights, encourage use of biodegradable soaps, and recyclable utensils.
Map Out Your Route
You’ve heard countless times that planning your road trip route is vital to making your journey epic. Something else you may not know about route planning is that it helps you drive less, thus preventing fuel wastage. Typically, when you choose spontaneity, you’ll be backtracking to see attractions you have missed along the way. Besides wasting time, you’ll be traveling many miles, which reduces your fuel efficiency and creates more carbon footprint. So, how do you make your route greener? You know where you want to go and activities you’ll try. All you should do is research routes to your desired destination. Then map out a primary and detour route that allows you to drive the least miles to your destination and at an efficient speed.
Exploring America sustainably by road isn’t as challenging as people assume. Consistent small actions focused on ecotourism can make your cross country road trip greener. Select destinations that offer sustainable activities and accommodation. Pack light, drive a vehicle that’s fuel efficient, and pick a route that allows you to drive fewer miles.
