Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Student Tour

Beginning to plan a student tour can feel overwhelming. From building the perfect itinerary to ensuring every student is safe and engaged, there are many details to consider. That’s why we’ve put together this guide. It will help educators, coordinators, and chaperones know where to start. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about our student tours.

What is Included in the Package?

Tour packages typically include transportation, lodging, and admission to museums and attractions. Meals can also be added and customized based on your group’s needs.

How Much Input Do I Have in the Itinerary?

We provide a recommended itinerary for our popular destinations. You’ll have the flexibility to adjust it—adding, removing, or swapping activities to best suit your class. We’ll ensure you experience all the must-see sites while you let us know which add-ons would make the trip even more exciting and relevant for your students.

Do You Provide a Tour Manager?

Student groups have the option to include a trained, experienced tour manager. This person will accompany you for the entire duration of your tour. Your tour manager will travel with your group—whether by motorcoach or flight—to provide support, coordination, and a seamless experience from start to finish.

What is the Difference Between a Tour Manager and a Tour Guide?

Your tour manager is a dedicated Corporate Travel employee. They oversee every detail of your trip and accompany your group from start to finish. Additionally, we partner with local tour guides at each destination. These experts have specialized knowledge of historical sites, museums, and attractions. This ensures your students gain the richest possible learning experience.

Are Meals Included?

Yes, we can include some or all of your meals as part of the tour. Our team customizes dining options to fit the unique needs of your school. Depending on the itinerary, meals may be provided through a food hall with a set cash allowance or integrated into the experience itself. For example, a themed dinner at Medieval Times could be included.

What Safety Protocols Do You Have in Place for Students?

We provide dedicated overnight security at each hotel to ensure peace of mind throughout your stay. As a member of the American Bus Association, we guarantee that our drivers are highly qualified. Every motorcoach is equipped to transport students safely and comfortably. Our team is always within reach. We provide a 24-hour emergency phone line so students and chaperones can contact us at any time.

When Should I Start Planning My Student Tour?

The best time to start is now! With back-to-school season in full swing, educators are already reserving spots and booking experiences for their students. Planning early helps ensure your group secures admission to popular museums and attractions. It also gives you plenty of time to customize your itinerary for the best learning experience possible.

How Are Schedules Managed to Keep Groups on Time?

Your tour manager operates the daily schedule. They ensure that transportation, meals, and activities run smoothly and on time. They handle logistics behind the scenes so that students and chaperones can focus on enjoying the experience.

Can Fundraising Money Be Applied to Student Accounts?

Yes. Our relationship managers can assist your group by providing suggestions and fundraising tips. This helps raise money for student accounts.

How Do You Handle Last-Minute Changes?

Should any unexpected changes arise—such as weather, closures, or travel delays—your tour manager will handle it efficiently while on the road. They will adjust the itinerary as needed.

The Importance of Planning Ahead

There’s a lot to think about before starting to plan your trip. We’re here to make sure you feel fully prepared every step of the way. Student tours are a powerful way to bring classroom learning to life. The planning process should be just as exciting as the trip itself.

Start Planning Your Unique Student Tour Experience

Click “Start Planning” at the top of this page to begin creating your one-of-a-kind student tour experience!

One of the best parts about student tours is that they can be tailored to fit your specific needs. Whether you want to focus on history, science, or the arts, we can help you craft the perfect itinerary.

Engaging Activities for Students

Incorporating engaging activities into your tour can enhance the learning experience. Consider adding workshops, interactive exhibits, or guided discussions at various sites. These activities can help students connect what they learn in the classroom with real-world experiences.

Building Team Spirit

Student tours also provide an excellent opportunity to build team spirit. Group activities and challenges can foster camaraderie among students. This can lead to lasting friendships and a more enjoyable experience overall.

Feedback and Reflection

After the tour, encourage students to provide feedback. This can help improve future tours and ensure that the experiences are meaningful. Reflection activities, such as journaling or group discussions, can also help students process what they learned.

Conclusion

Planning a student tour is an exciting endeavor. With the right preparation and support, you can create a memorable experience that enriches your students' education. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. We’re here to help you every step of the way!