Student travel can be a magical experience that often stays forever as a cherished memory with those who are lucky enough to experience it. However, that magic doesn’t simply manifest itself out of thin air—a great number of factors and considerations play into how a successful trip comes together. Come along as we explore some must-know tips for planning your next student travel experience, along with some feedback from educators who’ve traveled with Educational Tours, Inic. (ETI) in the past.
- IDENTIFY THE BENEFITS.
While brainstorming the details of your future trip, jot down what takeaways you’d like for your students to gain from the experience. Whether your focus is educational in nature, performance based, simply just for fun or a combination of all three, determining these outcomes is the best way to begin dreaming up your trip.
“ETI is an amazing tour company that truly cares about your group’s needs. They will do everything they can to give your students an amazing experience. I highly recommend them for your next tour!”
– Dave K., Band Educator
- CREATE A BUDGET.
By creating a budget, you can go into the planning process knowing exactly what’s realistic for your student group. The ETI team understands how important it is to adhere to a set budget and are therefore experts at customizing your trip itinerary to not only meet your expectations for educational value, but also in terms of budget. If you’re not sure what your budget might be, just ask us! We can help select a destination and activities that work for your needs.
“It’s difficult to find words to describe my respect for ETI. It is quite obvious, throughout the entire trip process (planning, billing, tour guide, etc.), that getting my economically disadvantaged students to a great location, doing great things at the best possible price is ETI’s top priority. In 26 years of teaching, I’ve never seen or heard of a company that comes close—no exaggeration. They care that much and are that good.”
– Scott M., Band Educator
- START EARLY!
Give yourself way more time than you think you need to get the ball rolling on all the details of your trip. Not only does planning early allow the greatest opportunity to secure all of your preferred activities and venues, it also gives you more time to get more students on the trip while also allowing them more time to fundraise.
“Educational Tours, Inc. never fails to provide timely, accurate and dedicated service to its groups. During our trip (the first since we had to cancel a trip during the COVID lockdown), there were a few obstacles that arose unexpectedly. Each one was handled with patience and diligence until it was resolved to our satisfaction.”
– Matt S., Marching Band & Choir Educator
- COMMUNICATE OFTEN.
Be proactive in communicating and sharing information with parents as early on in the planning process as possible. Emphasize the vital role travel plays in students’ development and hold regular planning meetings—keeping the lines of communication with parents open and transparent. Making yourself available otherwise to answer any questions they may have helps build trust and reassures them that their child is safe in your capable care.
“Kim and the staff at ETI helped me with every aspect of my trip planning. They are knowledgeable, accommodating and enthusiastic partners in making your trip a success! I just finished my trip and I’m already talking with them about our next big adventure!”
– Melissa B., Choir Educator
Contact ETI to start planning your student travel adventure.
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