Camping guides
Ultimate eco van trip UK: sustainable travel guide
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Planning the ultimate eco van trip in the UK
Scientists and global climate observers have agreed that domestic caravan holidays are among the most 'environmentally-friendly' ways to travel and directly contribute to reducing the number of holidaymakers jumping on planes out of the UK. Staying in a caravan park is the greenest kind of holiday available.
You have picked up your van and are already doing your bit for Mother Earth, but what more could you do this holiday? Read on for our top five tips for planning the ultimate eco van trip.
1. Leave no trace
Let's start with an essential tip. Leave no trace. Not just words on a page, this is a global movement to encourage those travelling around our fine country to pack out what they pack in and create an education piece about how to minimise environmental impacts while enjoying the great outdoors. There are seven fundamental principles to leave no trace, and they start with preparations, and knowing the regulations and facilities at your intended destination will help you plan accordingly. Camp where you should, leave what you find, dispose of your waste correctly and respect wildlife. It's easy when you think about it.
2. Travel slower
Dreams come true, and we are giving you a free pass to slow down and travel for longer. You might need to clear this one with your boss, but here's why. Driving less, moving slower, and staying in the destination longer are great ways to reduce your transportation footprint. We promise you don't need to rush from place to place to cram in everything. Take your time and soak up the magic of each destination before heading somewhere new. Keep to the speed limits to reduce your fuel consumption and drive slower; this will help the environment and give you more time to enjoy the small moments of life on the road.
3. Make sustainable swaps
Embracing low waste should be a priority on and off the road but particularly important for sustainable van life. Sustainable swaps come down to the food you buy, how you store it, and even your toiletries. Small exchanges such as soap and shampoo bars instead of plastic bottles will do wonders for the planet and your conscience. Be sure to carry reusable bags for shopping and shop local as much as possible. Local businesses typically use local resources, employ locals, and operate more sustainably than the corporate giants. It's all about that circular economy when it comes down to sustainability.
4. Say no to single-use
Ditch the plastic straw, bags, bottles, and coffee cups and switch out for a reusable option. There is no excuse. We all know how harmful the above can be to the Earth and the incredible wildlife that we get to share it with. Most items can be sourced from great eco-friendly businesses and are fantastic to have on hand for your travels. Quick swaps like reusable coffee cups for a takeaway caffeine fix and containers for takeaway food will help the planet and yourself reduce your waste not only while travelling, but year-round.
5. Stay sustainable
Green camping and destinations are easy to find in the UK. From the Eden Project to botanical gardens and eco-friendly elegance in Yorkshire, the UK has a diverse range of places to visit that will score brownie points for your carbon footprint. With a hot list of campsites and areas that allow you to explore responsibly, it's time to pack up the sustainable wagon and hit the road.
Check out two of our favourite eco-friendly campsites
Mother Ivey's Bay Holiday Park - Padstow, Cornwall
This campsite is an eco-friendly haven, receiving recognition for its protection of plants and animal habitats. With efficient use of energy and recycling facilities on site paired with a calm and collected environment, you are in for a relaxing stay here. With the area close to a private sandy golden beach and Cornwall's attractions close by, it's a hit with all who visit.
Beech Croft Farm - Buxton, Derbyshire
On the doorstep of the beloved Peak District National Park, in the hamlet of Blackwell, Beech Croft has more than just stunning views of the rolling hills. They have been awarded highly for their conservation efforts, including creating wildlife meadows and a shower block powered solely by sustainable energy.
Hire a van for your UK adventure
Does the sustainable travel life interest you? Camplify has scoured and sourced an incredible range of van rentals for you to choose from, so make a cup of tea, browse, and start your eco road trip today.
Adventures of all kinds await…