How to save water while on holiday

We know you do an amazing job of saving water at home every day, but what about when you’re away on holidays? If you're planning a getaway from the hustle and bustle, here are some water saving hacks for when you're on the road.

Check around your home before you head off

Check your irrigation system

Make sure your irrigation system is working properly and set to water only once on your watering days. If rain is forecast, consider turning your retic off while you're away.

Check for leaks

Do a quick sense check for leaks around the house. A small leak can waste thousands of litres of water if it’s not fixed. Our handy leak detection tool can help you get on top of it before you go.

Turn off water appliances

You don't need to turn the water off to the entire house when going on holiday, but you can turn off any water-using appliances, such as your dishwasher and washing machine. And while you're there, switch them off at the wall to save electricity too!

Ways to save water when camping or caravanning

Carry wet wipes and hand sanitiser

Hand sanitiser is a great alternative to using water to wash your hands. You can also use wet wipes in place of water to clean a surface. While they don't replace a shower, they do a good job at getting rid of any dirt on your body!

Remember, regardless of what the label says, never flush wet wipes down the toilet because they can cause blockages.

Create a one-pot meal and scrape your plates

Scale back on the amount of water you use for cooking by preparing easy single pot or pan meals. Our go to meal is a stir fry. Not only is it quick and easy, but you don't need to use any water to prepare it and you'll also save time on cleaning!

To avoid wasting water when doing the dishes, scrape off any food scraps to make them easier to wash. If pre-washing is necessary, consider using a spray bottle filled with dishwashing liquid and water to avoid running the tap.

Re-wear your clothes

Try and wear your clothes more than once and pack for the conditions – clothes that can withstand the elements and are easy to clean.

If you have packed enough clothes for the trip, wait until you get back home and do a full load of washing then. If you do have to wash your clothes, use the economy or water saving mode where available.

Use dry shampoo

It can be difficult to find a place to shower and wash your hair while camping. If your hair can’t handle it anymore, opt for dry shampoo to keep your locks fresh without the need to use running water.

Be mindful of how much water is in the tank!

Caravans and some campsite bathrooms have a limited water supply because the water comes from a tank, not from pipes like at home. Limit your showers to 4 minutes and consider using a timer on your phone or a shower timer. This will avoid being left mid shower with no water and shampoo in your hair!

How to avoid wasting water at hotels or holiday parks

Be mindful of the tap and choose half flush

A running tap can waste 10 litres of water per minute, so be sure to turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or doing the dishes. If the property you’re staying at has dual flush toilets, use the half flush where possible. By doing this, you can save up to 80 litres of water per day.

Re-use your towels and keep your showers short

One of the perks of staying in a hotel is having a regular supply of fresh towels and linen. But in doing so, you’re increasing the amount of washing being done. Try limit how often you request new towels.

When it’s shower time, make sure you visit our Spotify playlist and choose a waterwise shower song to sing along to. This'll help limit how much time you spend in the shower.

Spot a leak? Let someone know

If you happen to see a leaking tap or shower during your stay, or if you hear a toilet running, let the property manager know so they can get on top of it.

So, by all means relax on your holiday, but not on your water use!