Snowshoe Hiking in Austria: A Beginner’s Guide to Trails & Gear

I still remember my first time on snowshoes. I thought it would be just walking with bigger feet. It was not. I fell, got frustrated, and almost gave up within the first hour. That is why I want to share what I learned the hard way. Snowshoe hiking in Austria is one of the most peaceful winter activities you can try. But beginners make simple mistakes that turn a beautiful day into a struggle. Let me help you avoid those. What You Actually Need to Start You do not need expensive gear to begin. Most local outdoor shops rent snowshoes and poles for about 15 to 20 euros per day. The shoes should match your weight, including the gear you carry. If they are too small, you will sink. Too large, and you will trip. Wear waterproof boots, not regular hiking boots. Your feet will get cold and wet otherwise. Gaiters are not just for looks. They keep snow from slipping into your boots. Trust me, wet socks ruin everything. Clothing is simple: dress like you are going for a winter walk, not a high-...

10 Ways To Be An Eco-Ski Travelle

1. FLY LESS

Flying is one of the major culprits of carbon emissions, but it is also a key factor in helping us to discover the world. Responsible air travel means flying less (taking more trains), staying longer at your holiday destination and avoiding transit flights (taking off and landing accounts for 25% of airplane emissions).

2. BUY ECONOMY

It may be a small compromise of comfort, but economy seats require less space and allow more people on the same flight. Every bit accumulates to make a huge difference. Plus, you can use the extra bucks saved to indulge in a treat after.

3. PICK NEWER AIRCRAFTS

Choose airlines that offer the latest range of aircraft such as A350 and A787. These carbon fiber planes are more fuel-efficient and emit less carbon. Look further by buying from the airlines that are reducing their impact on the environment such as reducing single-use plastics.

4. PACK LIGHT



Less weight = less emissions. And also, less waste you will leave behind. Instead of disposables, go for more sustainable products like eco-friendly soaps and shampoos, and other items like reusable cotton swabs, water bottles and travel utensils. Bring your own bathroom slippers too!

5. CHOOSE TRANSPORT WISELY

Some places, such as St. Anton am Arlberg from Zurich Airport, are easily accessible by train or buses, so go for it. If renting a vehicle saves you time and nerves, especially when travelling with young kids, choose hybrid or electric cars. 

6. STAY AT ECO-FRIENDLY PLACES

By staying at local accommodations with green practices, not only are you reducing your carbon footprint, but you are also contributing to the local economy and investing in the community. Simply contact the hotel or check its website to find out about their green initiative before booking.

7. SUPPORT LOCAL

Eat out at local restaurants, buy locally made souvenirs, and choose local guides and small businesses that are based at your destination. A bit of research goes a long way. Fully catered chalets may not give you a chance to explore the local culture and delicacies.

8. AVOID FOOD WASTE



Prioritise buying groceries at the farmers’ markets over big supermarket chains. Choose accommodation where leftovers from breakfast buffets are handled consciously instead of being thrown away. Bring along a reusable container while dining out so that when you can’t finish your food, you will always have something to take it away with.

9. EAT SEASONAL FOOD

The benefits are plenty! Seasonal produce is fresher, tastes better and usually have no pesticides and preservatives. Not only are they cheaper and contain more nutrients, they are also mostly locally produced and have substantially less carbon footprint.

10. CUT MEAT & DIARY

Shift to more plant-based meals that are available at your vacation spot. Besides enjoying more health benefits, you get to also help fight climate change, air, soil and water pollution, ocean dead zones, and mitigate other problems caused by industrial livestock production.

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