Sustainable Self Catering Staycations: How to Travel Green Without Leaving the UK
With growing awareness of climate change and a desire to reduce our carbon footprint, more people in the UK are opting for sustainable staycations over international travel. By holidaying closer to home and making eco-friendly choices, we can enjoy a relaxing break while supporting local communities and protecting the environment. Wherever you want to explore in the UK, here’s some suggestions on how you can make your staycation as sustainable as possible.
1. Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation
Many self catering properties in the UK are embracing sustainability by reducing energy use, sourcing local products and even generating their own renewable power. Look for places with an eco-certification like the Green Tourism Award. More and more places are also installing biomass boilers and solar panels.
2. Travel Greener
One of the biggest benefits of a staycation is cutting down on long-haul flights, which significantly contribute to carbon emissions. Instead, consider taking public transport to your destination, this is much more environmentally friendly than flying or driving. If you do drive, share lifts with the other people going, use an electric vehicle, or plan a route with fewer miles, this can all help lower emissions. Plus if you can, take your bikes with you so that you can explore the area without using your car. Make an effort to go on foot when you pop to the local shop for any supplies.
3. Support Local Businesses
Choosing local places to eat over chain restaurants, independent shops over big supermarkets and artisan markets over mass-produced souvenirs all contribute to a more sustainable staycation. Not only does this help the local economy, but it also reduces the environmental impact of shipping goods long distances. From farm-to-table restaurants to handmade crafts, there are so many ways to embrace the local culture while keeping your holiday green.
4. Respect Nature and Wildlife
The UK is home to breathtaking landscapes, from the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish coast and protecting these spaces is key to sustainable travel. Follow the Countryside Code by sticking to marked paths, taking litter home and avoiding disturbing wildlife. If you're by the coast, consider eco-conscious activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or beach clean-ups.
5. Reduce Waste and Energy Use
Simple habits like bringing a reusable water bottle, coffee cup and shopping bag can significantly cut down on single-use plastic while you're away. Most self catering places encourage recycling, use energy-efficient lighting when possible and turn off appliances when not in use. Try to shop at local markets and cook meals with minimal packaging to reduce food waste.
6. Try a Digital Detox
One of the joys of a UK staycation is the chance to slow down and disconnect. Instead of streaming endless content or scrolling through social media, why not embrace screen-free activities like hiking, reading, or stargazing? We have plenty of Dark Sky areas in the UK including six of our National Parks – Exmoor, Brecon Beacons, Moore's Reserve in the South Downs, Snowdonia, North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales have all been awarded International Dark Sky Reserve status. Northumberland is also an International Dark Sky Park (Gold Tier). You never know what you might see! Maybe a shooting star to make a wish on! Reducing unnecessary electricity use also makes your holiday more sustainable so don't forget to turn the lights off when you go out.
Enjoy a Guilt-Free Break
A sustainable staycation doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or fun, it simply means making mindful choices that benefit both the planet and the local economy. By choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local businesses and respecting nature, you can enjoy a rejuvenating UK getaway that leaves a positive impact.
Where will your next green staycation take you? For plenty of self catering ideas, visit our website https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk If you are taking your electric vehicle, then you can refine your search on our website by this so that you can ensure you book somewhere that offers EV charging.
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