If you are going on holiday by train, you are already being more eco-friendly than you would be if you were flying, so well done you! However, there are still so many things you can do to continue to have a sustainable rail travel holiday. Below are just five tips that you can use, to stay as eco-friendly as possible while on your travels.
Travel plastic free
Everyone loves a little haul of travel sized cosmetics for their suitcase, but unfortunately they are not good for the environment, despite the fact they use less plastic than a full sized bottle of shampoo. These days, brands such as Lush do a fantastic range of solid shampoo bars and soap bars that are completely plastic free, as well as being free from loads of the harmful chemicals we use every day.
Shop sustainably
Be honest, how many times have you felt the overwhelming urge to buy a whole new wardrobe for your holiday? Of course, you need to feel good when you’re away, but it doesn’t need to come at the price of the planet. Use your holiday to remind yourself of what clothes you already have, then try and get what you really need from a charity shop. You could even donate some of the things you don’t need while you’re there!
If you are shopping in more than one shop and want to store your bags in a safe place, Vertoe is available for you. Vertoe is present near all major landmarks and transit points. You can click luggage storage near Kingscross to find Vertoe options nearby.
Visit eco-friendly attractions
In the UK, we are stowed out with outstanding eco-friendly attractions. We have everything from mountain ranges to waterfalls, and forests and lakes. Some initiatives, such as Alladale Wilderness Reserve in Scotland have huge conservation focuses. Alladale even went as far as to reintroduce red squirrels to the UK wilderness, as well as Scottish wildcats. At the other end of the country, we have The Eden Project in Cornwall and the Jubilee Pool in Penzance. There’s something everywhere in the UK.
Choose sustainable accommodation
If you’re visiting a new place, buying a low-impact hotel or hostel is an easy way to protect the area. Not only will you be supporting a local business, you’ll also contribute less to landfill compared to a stay in an all inclusive resort. Lots of private resorts encourage reusing towels, offer recycling bins and use significantly less plastic. Hostels are the most eco-friendly way to travel, as they are usually in a central location, which cuts emissions travelling to and from the train station to the accommodation.
Go somewhere unknown
When you book train tickets with National Rail, try to opt for somewhere that isn’t as well known. Prior to the pandemic, some of the most tranquil and beautiful spots on the planet were literally being loved to death. Allow Earth’s natural beauty spots to thrive in peace, by opting for places that aren’t as popular. This will also give you the opportunity to support some local businesses and tour guides, who might not get work otherwise.
Keep all of these top tips in mind when you’re on your holiday, and you’ll be sure to have a trip that’s good for you in more ways than one.