The “Holiday Road” is Paved in Green
A whole new meaning to the word "save!"
Somewhere in the distance, we can hear Lindsey Buckingham singing “Holiday Road!” Summer is definitely the best time for a good old-fashioned road trip. But you can do it while keeping the environment in mind. Here are some tips we found:
Think green before you even leave the house. You’re not going to use your coffeemaker or your TV while you’re gone, so Yahoo! says to unplug them! Take a quick tour around the house to see what won’t need energy while you’re on your vacation. It wouldn’t hurt to turn your central air down or off altogether.
Plan ahead. Before putting the car in “drive,” put a bit more thought into your actual trip. Depending on the size of your group, Natural Home & Garden suggests renting a hybrid car. It may be small, but it’ll help reduce carbon emissions and get you great gas mileage.
Even if the very definition of “road trip” may incur a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants mentality, a little preparation doesn’t hurt. Map out the shortest route to a destination instead of just going where the wind takes you, and you’ll use less gas!
Driving at off-peak hours will help you avoid sitting in traffic during rush hours along your route. And if it’s not too hot, turn off your air conditioner and enjoy the breeze!
Use less trash. Greener Ideas urges you to skip the drive-thrus and pack your own goodies in reusable containers. Drink coffee out of your reusable mug instead of java shop cups. This reduces waste and added expenses, so you can save your money to visit the giant ball of twine!
As you channel your inner Clark Griswold this summer, what are your favorite road trip rules?
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