Planning a student trip is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming without the right partner by your side. A tour operator can make or break the experience, so before you sign on, it’s important to ask the right questions. Here are some key topics every educator should consider exploring when choosing who to work with.
“What does the student travel planning process look like”
Ask about step-by-step support: How often will you receive updates? Will you have a dedicated contact? When are payments due? Knowing the process up front helps you stay confident and organized. ETI breaks it all down for you here.
“What can you make happen with our budget?”
Presenting a clear budget helps you and your operator set realistic expectations. Ask how flexible pricing can be and what’s included to avoid surprises later. Not sure what a realistic budget is? ETI can walk you through it all.
“What is the right time to take this kind of trip?”
Outside considering your school calendar, exam schedules, and seasonal travel costs, a knowledgeable operator like ETI will help you identify the best windows for affordability, student availability, and opportunities at your chosen destination.
“Our group is approximately __ number of students. What does this mean on your end?”
Group size impacts everything from motorcoach logistics to hotel assignments. Be upfront about your expected numbers so your ETI travel consultant can tailor the plan to meet your exact needs.
“Our goals are focused on ___ and ___. What should I include in my itinerary to accomplish this?”
Every trip is different—whether your focus is history, music performance, language immersion, or team-building. Share your vision so the pros can ensure your itinerary is robust and reflects your students’ learning objectives and overall expectations.
“How can you help me motivate my students to buy in for this trip?”
Buy-in from both students and their parents can truly shape the success of a trip. A good operator like ETI will provide tools, fundraising ideas, organizational resources, and even kickoff meeting ideas to spark enthusiasm and keep momentum strong.
With the right questions—and the right partner like ETI—you’ll not only simplify the planning process but also ensure your students have a meaningful and memorable trip.
Courtesy of ETI.
