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Pack Your Suitcases, We Are Going On A Roadtrip!

For most people summertime means taking time off work and finally taking a much needed vacation.  Though there are many transportation options available for getting to your vacation destination, many people (myself included) rely on taking a car because of the cheaper cost, the freedom it provides, and because many road trips are fun. While vacations are usually about relaxing and being carefree consider the following “green” tips:

-Before your leave your home, make sure to turn off your AC and unplug any other unneeded technologies. If no one is home there is no need to waste electricity (and money)

– If you have a choice in the vehicle you use opt for a hybrid or a car that uses less fuel. If you don’t own a hybrid consider renting a car. Car rentals are usually pretty cheap when multiple people chip in and give the trip an extra bit of specialness.

– Pack as light as possible. Excess pounds can affect a cars fuel efficiency.

– Instead of rolling down your car windows use the AC. Rolled down windows affect the aerodynamics of your car.

– Try to stay within the speed limits. Cars are usually most fuel efficient went going between 50 and 60 miles per hour.

-Opt for local goods when stopping (I like to pick up Amish licorice while driving through Pennsylvania).  Stop at local food stands along the road for fresh fruit, vegetables, and baked goods.

-Instead of buying new water and soda bottles whenever you stop, bring reusable bottles to reduce your trash output.

-If stopping or staying at a National Park be sure to follow the parks safety and preservation guidelines. Clean up after yourself! Nature is something to be shared and treated with respect.

-If you plan on smoking in your car during your trip do not throw finished cigarettes out the window, during the summer vegetation can be very dry and a risk for wild fires.

-If you are going on a long road trip and plan on staying in a hotel consider staying at a place that is green certified. Green certification relates to a business’s operational and sustainability practices including energy and water conservation, air quality, and housekeeping practices.

RoadTripping Couple via Shutterstock

by Maddie Perlman-Gabel

Thursday, July 25th, 2013 at 09:31
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