8 ways to be a more conscious traveller this year

The concept of ‘sustainable travel’ has become big in recent years, as we look to reduce our impact on the planet. Whereas once a ‘sustainable’ holiday might have meant keeping the car fuelled, phone charged and tummy full, now it has a more nuanced definition – yet one that involves a mix of personal, social and environmental responsibility. 

Here are 8 ways to be more conscious as a traveller on your next trip:

1: Park it

It’s likely that you’ll be bringing a vehicle on holiday with you – but that doesn’t mean firing up the ignition at every moment. In fact, with Holiday Haven’s 12 parks offer everything you might need onsite or close by, meaning that in many cases it’s possible to not use your car for the duration of your stay. Enjoy exploring the area on foot, or load up bikes for the whole family (or hire them) to take in the quiet streets and other off-road tracks on offer near you.

2: Offset it

You will have heard of ‘carbon offsetting’ by now. But how exactly does it work? Well, in short, you can choose to pay a certain amount to offset the amount you consume through your carbon-producing activities (things like flying, driving or other power-hungry activities). Websites like TEM, Carbon Offsets Australia, GoNeutral, Carbon Positive Australia or Green Fleet allow you to calculate how much to offset or you can pay a regular amount each month (as little as the price of a coffee) to do your bit – with the money used to fund projects that regenerate the planet.

3: Plant it

Most offset companies will talk generically about using the offset to help native wildlife or plant native forests, but you can also choose to get more hands-on and particular about your sustainability. Websites such as Adopt a Tree allow you to do precisely that, choosing between a native eucalyptus, lilly pilly or elm tree for example. Others include Trillion Trees, One Tree Planted and Save the Koala – offering different tiers of participation. You’ll breathe easy as you help the planet breathe easier in a wonderfully tangible way.

4: Unplug it

There are actually some simple power-saving things you can do while on holiday to lessen your carbon footprint. These include switching off lights when not in use, going easy on the air-con, having shorter showers and choosing to line dry rather than use dryers where possible. Small decisions like this can add up when everyone does their bit.

5: Dispose of it

In almost every corner of the Shoalhaven region, including our Holiday Haven Parks, it’s easy to separate and recycle your rubbish. This includes gas bottles, which can be disposed of safely at community recycling centres. Out in the wilderness, if you’re in a place without bins, then be prepared to carry it with you to the nearest one. There are so many beautiful natural areas available for you to explore – by keeping them as you found them, you’ll be helping protect them for future visitors and future generations.

6: Reuse it

Reducing disposable plastic bottle use is a big focus, as this can eliminate a huge amount of waste throughout Australia. Simple strategies include bringing a refillable BPA-free water bottle for each member of your family (you can also get reusable metal straws if you’re not a fan of the paper straws that have now replaced plastic). Holiday Haven Culburra Beach has also installed Aquafil Outdoor Shower and Filtered Water Stations for easy washing and hydration straight off the beach.

7: Learn it

Many of our Holiday Haven Parks run education sessions over summer, as well as provide digital and printed information relating to shorebirds and shorebird recovery. As many of the parks are located along coastal areas, visitors are often unaware of the potential to disturb important sites that may be sensitive with relation to nesting and foraging areas. This information is especially important for pet owners to be aware of.

8: Leash it

Finally, speaking of four-legged family members, it’s important to know that while many of Holiday Haven’s Parks happily welcome your pet throughout non-peak times of year, you must be a responsible owner. This includes keeping your dog on a leash (unless in an off-leash area), ensuring they are collared and tagged and always cleaning up after them. Also remember, that even in off-leash areas, you must be aware of your dog’s location and behaviour at all times. These rules are for everyone’s protection (there is a zero-tolerance for dog attacks) and just another way that you can be a conscious and sustainable traveller this year.