Now that spring is here, many people are starting to plan their summer vacation. Whether you�re looking to go across the world or merely across your state, these 16 tips will help reduce your carbon footprint.

Planning

* Book direct flights, or as few transfers as possible (takeoffs and landings use lots of fuel).

* Rent a hybrid minivan and vacation with friends to save on fuel and costs.

* Vacation closer to home and visit nearby state or national parks, or a new birding trail.

* If you�re visiting an exotic locale, consider doing an eco-volunteer vacation.

* When booking accommodations, whether at home or abroad, ask about environmental certifications, like Sustainable Travel International or Green Globe.

* Trains are a great way to travel; Amtrak�s Northeast trains, which run on electricity, are the cleanest rail option. So consider a trip to New York, Boston, or Washington, D.C.

* When flying, avoid booking a first-class seat, which takes twice as much room and therefore twice as much carbon as an economy seat.

* A bus will cut your carbon in half, even compared with a hybrid car; taking a bus instead of flying can cut your emissions by 75 percent. Visit GotoBus.com, Greyhound, Trailways.

* Fly airlines with newer, more efficient fleets.

Packing

* Fly light�lugging aboard 10 extra pounds per passenger requires an additional 350 million gallons of jet fuel annually (enough to fly a 747 continuously for a decade).

* Bring your own reusable water bottles (if you're flying, make sure the containers are empty when you pass through security).

* Pack snacks/meals in reusable containers. Traveling

* Traffic congestion boosts emissions, so avoid driving

* Save fuel by properly inflating your tires.

* At your destination, ask about public transportation, or even rent bikes.

* Support sustainable local businesses. Check these websites: greenmap.org for shops and activities,dinegreen.com for certified eco restaurants, and localharvest.org for farmers� markets.