Because bed and breakfast lodges are typically smaller and independently owned, they are much more likely to employ green standards. Some are solar-powered or get energy through wind turbines, while others use fresh, homegrown produce for their meals. Use a website like bnbfinder.com or bedandbreakfast.com to narrow your search to eco-friendly bed and breakfast locations.
Although camping isn't for everyone, it's an excellent way to save energy. Camping requires little to no use of electricity or energy and puts you in touch with nature. By staying in tents, you'll also be able to lodge in many locations and save your cash. Choose a tent that accommodates your entire group or family and carpool.
Shared housing, also referred to as couch surfing, is a growing travel trend. Essentially, you seek out someone who is willing to provide a free bed or couch in the area in which you are traveling. CouchSurfing.com specializes in this type of travel and allows people to get in touch with others who are verified through the website.
Eco lodging is another growing trend that, in terms of luxury, is one step above camping and one below shared housing. The goal of eco lodging is to support locals in the area and be kind to the planet. Many eco lodges provide covered lodges but are without electricity and, in some cases, running water. There are many eco lodging locations throughout the world, and most charge a fraction of what you'll pay at a luxury hotel. Check out responsibletravel.com and ecohotelsandlodgecollection.com for locations.
