It’s no secret that we Aussies love a road trip. There’s nothing better than hitting the road for an adventure to remember - car packed, podcasts downloaded and snacks procured. However, as travellers become more environmentally conscious, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of road-tripping. This is why the concept of eco-friendly road trips is something to put into practice for your next journey, helping to reduce your carbon footprint while also supporting local economies. With this in mind, we’ve provided some tips to help you plan and enjoy an eco-friendly road trip.
Yallingup, Western Australia
Selecting the right vehicle is crucial for an eco-friendly road trip. If possible, opt for a hybrid, electric or fuel-efficient car. If your current vehicle isn’t the most environmentally friendly, you could consider swapping it with a friend if they own a more sustainable choice for a longer journey. Or, if you're renting, many rental companies now offer eco-friendly vehicle options. If you do decide to rent your car for the trip, don’t forget to protect your car hire, luggage and plans with suitable travel insurance.
Efficient route planning can greatly reduce driving distances and fuel consumption. If you can, plan out most of your destinations in advance and use apps and tools to find the most efficient routes. It might also be a good idea to plan your parking options ahead of time to avoid wasting fuel searching for a spot.
Not only will packing light save on space, but it can also help reduce your overall waste. Pack only what you need and choose more sustainable options like reusable containers and biodegradable toiletries. Remember to bring essentials such as reusable water bottles, keep cups, utensils and shopping bags.
Adopting fuel-efficient driving habits can make a big difference. This might include maintaining steady speeds, avoiding idling, and ensuring your tyres are properly inflated. Using cruise control on highways can also help maintain fuel efficiency and regular vehicle maintenance checks are a must!
Avoid single-use plastics by bringing reusable items like refillable water bottles, utensils, containers and bags. Where possible, plan your stops to include refill stations and recycling centres. Reducing plastic waste helps keep the environment clean and reduces the demand for disposable products.
Properly disposing of waste is crucial on an eco-friendly road trip. Separate your recyclables and compostable items, and find appropriate disposal sites. There are multiple apps and resources available to help locate recycling facilities along your route, such as the Recycle Right app which has a ‘Find My Nearest’ function, allowing you to locate your closest recycling centre or drop-off point.
Adhering to Leave No Trace principles will help minimise your impact on the environment. This includes disposing of waste properly, leaving natural objects undisturbed, and respecting wildlife.
Keep a safe distance from wildlife to avoid disturbing them. Do not feed animals, as this can alter their natural behaviour. Make sure to stay on designated trails to protect natural habitats and avoid trampling vegetation.
When you participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, or snorkelling, try to consider your environmental impact. Choose low-impact recreational options that respect natural ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Opt for guided experiences that emphasise environmental stewardship and responsible tourism practices so that your outdoor adventures contribute positively to conservation efforts.
If you’re camping during your road trip, a good way to adhere to sustainable practices is by cooking responsibly. Use portable stoves instead of open fires when possible, and always follow Leave No Trace principles. This includes cleaning up all waste, minimising campfire impact, and respecting wildlife habitats. For more camping tips, head to our blog.
Support local farmers and restaurants by choosing locally sourced and organic foods. Consider packing your meals using fresh produce from local markets and reducing your carbon footprint whilst supporting local economies.
Research and participate in local conservation projects or initiatives during your travels. Many destinations offer opportunities to volunteer or donate to organisations dedicated to preserving local wildlife, habitats or cultural heritage. Whether it's joining a beach cleanup, planting trees, or supporting wildlife sanctuaries, your contributions can make a positive impact on the environment, as well as being a fun activity to participate in on your journey.
As travellers, it's our responsibility to look after the environment and do what we can to limit our carbon footprint. Incorporating eco-friendly practices into your road trips is a great way to keep exploring the world while travelling sustainably. By implementing these tips and sharing your experiences with others, you can get the most out of your travels while leaving the least impact on the environment. Happy travels!
