When planning where to stay while traveling you probably consider cost, location, and comfort. Adding green to that list of criteria isn’t difficult and can make for a more rewarding stay. Here are a few things that can make your next trip a little greener.

Find a green hotel. While you might not be able to find a LEED rated hotel, you’ll more than likely be able to find a place with environmentally responsible practices. There are websites such as the Green Hotels Association, Sustainable Travel International, and The International Ecotourism Society that list member hotels committed to green. However, just because a hotel hasn’t joined these or other associations doesn’t mean they haven’t implemented environmental policies. Make a few phone calls to hotels you are considering before you book to find out what their environmental practices are. If you’re making international travel plans or there isn’t a toll-free number, try e-mailing. Things to ask about include water conservation measures, and waste and recycling policies.

Do your part. Turn off the television, room lights and the AC when you leave. Don’t keep the water running, and don’t hoard the free soaps and shampoos.

Communicate with housekeeping. Many hotels provide information cards on nightstands or in the bathroom reminding guests of their energy and water saving policies. Doing simple things such as leaving the towels on the floor indicates to the housekeeping staff that you would like new ones. If the place you’re staying doesn’t have this policy, call the front desk to let them know you would like your room serviced, but that you don’t need fresh sheets or towels.

Give positive feedback. If your hotel does offer these type of services tell them how much you appreciate it. If they don’t, write a letter or e-mail expressing that these features are important to you and will influence your accommodation decisions in the future. Sometimes this is the only way hotel management will find out if their customers care about environmentally responsible practices.

Ceres - Green Hotel Initiative

National Geographic - Green Guide

Sustainable Travel International

Green Hotels Association

The International Ecotourism Society

More information on eco-travel from Green Options:

Daily Tip: Green Hotel Detectives

Green Places for Travelers

Traveling Green Is Getting Easier

The Green Options Interview: Jeff Lazar, JLF/Lone Meadow