Getting to the airport the green way

With millions passing through UK airports annually, the number of cars making outbound and return journeys is just as high.

As such, the emissions from car journeys need to be limited. But how can this be done?

There's no denying that driving to the airport is also the easiest and most convenient way to transport you, your family and your luggage. So you may think that limiting carbon emissions is nigh-on impossible. But that's not necessarily the case.

"There's no denying that driving to the airport is also the most convenient way to transport you, your family and your luggage."

A large proportion of travellers heading overseas will take a taxi or perhaps even get a lift to their departure airport. While this may prove the most cost-effective solution, it is far from the greenest. In receiving a lift from either a friend or taxi, you are doubling the number of car journeys being made: twice there, and twice back. Booking airport parking at one of the many sites available through HolidayExtras.com reduces this number.

If, however, you wish to avoid driving in its entirety, there are other options available. Each of the UK's leading airports enjoy excellent public transport links, with many served by coach and rail.

For example, the Gatwick Express is a rail service running from Victoria station, taking just 30 minutes direct to Gatwick airport. Easily accessible from across London and surrounding counties, it's a fast and environmentally friendly way to avoid traffic and remove the extra stresses of driving. And if you live away from central London, you can easily access a train to Victoria station from across the UK. See our airports by rail pages for full details.

"From surrounding counties and various pick-up points throughout the UK, you can catch the coach and cut down on excess fuel usage."

National Express coaches are another viable alternative. From surrounding counties and various pick-up points throughout the UK, you can catch the coach and cut down on excess fuel usage. Take a look at our airports by coach pages for full details.

If taking the car is an unavoidable option, but you still want to make your journey as green as possible, there's still a few things you can do to ensure optimum fuel efficiency. Check out our tips on eco-friendly driving.

Remember to book your airport parking, airport hotels and airport lounges with HolidayExtras.com.