Sustainable travel tips

Human-induced (anthropogenic) climate change is a challenge we all face, but by making conscious choices about how we travel, we can reduce our carbon footprint, save money, and improve our health and wellbeing.

Active travel

Driving efficiently

Greener holidays and adventures

 

Active travel

Choosing to walk, cycle, or use public transport for shorter journeys offers multiple benefits:

• Improved health and wellbeing: Walking or cycling boosts physical health and mental wellbeing. The UK Chief Medical Officers’ Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly. Regular movement supports both body and mind, and the UK Government’s Cycle to Work Scheme also enables people to reduce the cost of buying a bicycle.
• Cost savings: Leaving the car at home for short trips can significantly reduce fuel costs as well as reduce emissions.
• Cleaner air: Poor air quality is a major public health risk in the UK, responsible for ~40,000 early deaths annually. Opting for active travel helps reduce emissions and air pollution.  
• Less noise pollution: Fewer vehicles mean quieter neighbourhoods, reducing stress and improving sleep quality.

Driving efficiently: lower emissions, lower costs

For those who need to drive, adopting efficient driving habits can make a big difference:

• Accelerate and brake gently: Smooth driving reduces fuel consumption and vehicle wear.
• Avoid high speeds: Cars are most efficient between 45–50 mph¹. Driving at 75 mph uses about 15% more fuel than at 60 mph².
• Maintain your vehicle: Properly inflated tyres and regular maintenance optimise efficiency.
• Reduce weight and drag: Remove unnecessary items and roof racks to decrease fuel use.
• Plan journeys: Combine trips and avoid unnecessary car journeys when possible.

¹ RAC’s fuel-saving advice

² Energy Saving Trust’s guide

Greener holidays and adventures

When planning trips, consider these strategies to minimise your environmental impact:

Transport choices

• Fly less and travel direct: Flying is carbon intensive. Choose airlines with efficient planes, reduce flights, and offset unavoidable emissions.
• Consider alternatives: Trains, coaches, and ferries are greener options. Travelling by train can save up to 97% of CO₂ per person compared to flying.
• Electric vehicles and car shares: Hire electric vehicles or use local carshare schemes.
• Active travel at your destination: Walk, cycle, or use public transport.

Where you stay

• Eco-conscious accommodation: Choose hotels or holiday companies committed to sustainability and responsible tourism.
• Support local communities: Staying at eco-friendly places can help preserve nature and boost local economies.

Food

• Eat local and seasonal: Source food from local markets and enjoy seasonal dishes.

Activities

• Low-impact fun: Visit eco-friendly attractions, rewilding initiatives, or simply go walking and cycling.
• Support conservation: Choose activities that help protect the environment.

For more resources, explore:

• Ecotree’s train emissions calculator
• The Gold Standard’s carbon offset projects
• Rough Guides’ eco-friendly hotels
• Responsible Travel’s sustainable trips
• Food Made Good directory
• Lonely Planet’s guides

Every journey offers an opportunity to make climate-friendly choices. Whether you’re commuting, running errands, or planning a holiday, small changes can add up to a big impact for the planet, your wallet, and your wellbeing.