May Tip: Green Traveling

Green Traveling you say?!

Yes, starting this month, folks will be setting out on 4 months of vacationing, visiting family, mini weekend trips, etc.. When we travel we often forget things like: deodorant, toothpaste, a pair of jeans, a dressy outfit. We also often forget to be more green when living beyond the comforts of home. There are many simple ways you can "go green" while still relaxing on a beach or canoeing on a gorgeous lake.

Below are some simple tips to help guide you in planning your trip and while your experiencing it!

-Bring reusable hot/cold bottle containers and extra shopping/grocery tote bags along with you.

-When searching for a hotel, check out greenhotels.org to find eco-friendly accommodations. Also, Hertz is offering a Green Line of rental cars. Honor corporations who are trying to reduce their Eco-footprint with your business.

-When you check-in to your hotel ask where the recycling is located, if they don't provide any recycling options, save your materials to put in your car to take home to recycle or find a recycling center close by.

-Remember when you shop, simply go local. Consider green, fair trade, slave-free, and local products, just like you do at home. We promise the locals of wherever your staying will VERY much appreciate you boosting their economy.

-Ever heard of the new trendy term, "Eco-cation"?! Well, this is simply saying your going to vacation with the mind-set of allowing the nature around you to be the highlight of your trip.
For example: using the local canoeing or kayak rentals, go on a guided nature tour or just wander in the natural habitats around you, a hike at the local state or National parks, or a Hedrick personal favorite: camping at a state park! The community will appreciate your investment in keeping it preserved. Simply search around the area your visiting for it's "natural" high-lights and visit it!

-Lastly, are you staying with family or friends? Use this opportunity to inform and educate by example. Don't be difficult, but simply continue your green habits and hope that it rubs off on those around you. Be a good guest though!

We hope you have relaxing, fun, simple, and green-focused traveling these next few months!