Car-Free Recreation - Sustainable Life Blog Series
Summer is here and it’s the perfect time for outdoor adventures. Whether you live in the city, country, or suburbs, there are so many ways to get out and enjoy nature while centering sustainability. With a little bit of research, the right gear, and plenty of water, you can get out exploring without your car. Here are our top tips on how to leave your car behind and recreate sustainably all summer long!
5 tips for car-free recreation
1. Find a local park within walking or biking distance
Whip out a map or head to Google to look up a park, beach, or trail within walking or biking distance. If your destination is further afield, check out public transit routes in your area. Bring your bike on the bus or train to extend your adventure.
2. Check the weather
Peek at the forecast for the week and pick the clearest day for your adventure. On the day of your ride or walk, double-check to make sure there’s no chance of hazardous weather like thunderstorms, heavy rains, or high winds. Make a backup plan for bad weather and tell a friend where you’re headed.
3. Map your route
If you’re biking, map out your route to stay on bike paths, protected bike lanes, or designated bikeways when possible. Apps like Ride with GPS and Strava have crowdsourced data that can help you identify the safest (and most scenic!) routes to your favorite recreation spot. If you’re walking, check on your map’s street view to make sure your route has sidewalks and safe intersections. If you live near public transit, see if your route has bus stops along the way as a backup plan for bad weather.
4. Gear up
Make sure your phone is charged and loaded up with the directions you need to get where you’re going & back home. Pack plenty of water and snacks for the trip and to enjoy when you reach your destination. Be sure to bring sun protection whether it’s sunblock, a hat, or your favorite neck gaiter. If you’re biking, don’t leave the house without a helmet and lock!
5. Enjoy!
Hop on your bike or lace up your sneakers and enjoy. And don’t forget to treat yourself after your adventure! Take that money you saved on gas and grab an ice cream or your favorite drink.
This summer, we hope you can find new ways to get out and enjoy nature in a more sustainable way. By ditching your car, you can explore off the beaten path and enjoy the journey as well as the destination. Stay tuned for more tips on how to live a more sustainable life. Share your sustainable adventure content with us on social on Instagram @turtlefur or on TikTok @turtlefurco to be featured on our page!