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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2023 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 12-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

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Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $559 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $800.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

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Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 7 million dollars to over 130 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-29 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters on Intrepid Travel’s Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip which includes time with the mountain gorillas of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. 

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination.

For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina). Can’t stay long? Book one of Chimu Adventures’ scenic flights to Antarctica , which fly as far as the south pole in one spectacular 16-hour day.

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $5,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

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Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to nearby destinations like Mexico or Denver—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

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For independent explorers who don’t want to miss out on these amazing destinations, book your hotel stay for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels .

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The Complete Guide to Group Travel

By Stephanie Wu

The paella was a breaking point. I was in the middle of the most complicated group trip I’d ever planned—13 people, flying in from six different cities, all gathering in a seven-bedroom villa in Andalucia . We were there, ostensibly, on a joint 30th-birthday trip, a group vacation we’d been planning for years . As high school classmates, some of us had known each other for decades, and the group had grown to include significant others and even a not-yet-announced pregnancy.

It would have been an ambitious trip no matter how many people were attending. We had chosen Spain as a middle ground between North America and East Asia, where my friends and I had scattered after college graduation. We were basing ourselves in Ronda, but rented several cars and planned day trips to see the bigger cities—Seville, Granada, Cordoba. But, inevitably, the dreamy idea of bringing us together for a milestone trip took on a life of its own: destination suggestions ranged from Croatia to Marrakech , and a total of 26 people were invited at some point. And I was wrangling it all— finding a villa , planning activities, making restaurant reservations, confirming the rental cars , and generally making sure it all went smoothly. Thankfully, I had some help: a villa specialist , plus a subset of friends I could count on for strong opinions and quick decisions. I took on this role naturally—and my friends were great about checking in to see if I needed any organizational help whatsoever. But generally, it was up to me to shape the flow of the trip while accommodating every travel personality, from super-planner to totally blasé.

Like every group vacation I’ve ever been on, our Spain trip had its ups and downs. On the first night, my head spinning while trying to keep track of a group text chain that had lost all sense of reason, I found myself struggling to keep my eyes open. Even though I was seeing my friends for the first time in a while, enjoying a home-cooked, multi-course meal as we shared exciting news (A new job! An international move! That pregnancy!), all I wanted to do was lie down after a very long travel day of planes, trains, and cars. On day two, I came downstairs to a breakfast spread of eggs, cheese, meats, and bread (there’s nothing like traveling with someone who likes to wake up early and prepare breakfast), and proceeded to try and block out the morning noise—questions about what to wear, what to bring, where the chargers were—way too much before I'd had my morning caffeine.

I hung back a bit that day during the group tour, scanning the crowd to make sure all my friends were having fun. Did they like the tour guide we had booked? Were they tired and jet lagged? Was the lunch reservation at an appropriate time? That night at dinner, a random spot we found within walking distance of our villa, I was happy to let someone else take the lead in ordering for the group, since the menu was only printed in Spanish. And then, the next night, we were so excited when our paella was delivered. It was in a massive pan the size of my wingspan, and took two people to carry. The saffron-infused aroma was coming through the aluminum sheets, and we were all crowded around the stove, awaiting the big reveal—until we uncovered the aluminum and realized they hadn’t seen my note about dietary restrictions, and my friends with shellfish sensitivities would be eating leftovers instead.

At its best, travel has a way of making every daily anxiety feel absolutely insignificant. And at its worst, even the tiniest mishaps, like the wrong ingredients in the paella, feel like the end of the world. This is even more the case on group trips, when you’re dealing with people of different ages, needs, and activity levels, or traveling with a group of friends of friends, where you’re close with some and not quite as comfortable with others. When you’re trying to accommodate everyone’s travel wishes, but somehow end up pleasing nobody. And of course, that moment when you realize you’re going to need a vacation to recover from this vacation.

That’s not to say that I didn’t have a great time in Spain. When I look back, I think about the one night we picked to be our joint birthday dinner. We were all gathered around restaurant table, 13 of us trying to blow the candles out together, each dissolving into giggles at different times. And of the one day we smartly split up into smaller groups—one group exploring the town, the other hanging by the pool—and then gathered together at night to share the highlights of our day. And how our long car rides led to long conversations, which was a way for me to really get to know my friend’s significant other—something that would have been nearly impossible otherwise, as they live in Toronto and we only see them a few times a year.

It always takes a few days for me to settle into vacation mode, but this time around, I had the added stress of worrying about everything that could go wrong, when a group of people who became friends at 18 meet again to travel together a dozen years later. I needed those moments of joy, of spontaneous laughter, of lounging around in silence, to be reminded of why we were all together in the first place—and why a few years earlier, we had known that we needed to prioritize setting aside time in our schedules to find a week that worked for all of us.

I think about how, during the vacation, we fantasized about what the next reunion would look like. Would we alternate continents? Would we take a cruise? Would we bring partners and kids along for our 40th birthday trip? At one point, someone brought up making it an annual trip —but the panicked look on my face might have nipped that suggestion in the bud immediately.

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Rachel Chang

Group travel requires a herculean amount of coordination and compromise. But there’s something about having a group of people in the same place at the same time that can give every trip that once-in-a-lifetime feeling—an adrenaline rush that I only get when I’m traveling. I got to see a new side of my friends, who I haven’t lived in the same city as since I was 18—how some woke up early to check in at the office, how others were unflappable through hours of traffic and confusing driving directions, and how the parents-to-be soaked up the last few months before they became a family of three. That’s the magic of a group trip—you get to see your travel companions out of their daily element, in their vacation selves. And, if you can manage to stay calm throughout the planning process, the truth is, that’s often our best selves.

Why we built this guide

Group trips don’t all have to be stressful before they get good. If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you’ve been tasked to be the planner, at least in some part, for an upcoming trip. Here at Condé Nast Traveler , we embrace group travel in all forms, from big family vacations to a core group of friends that always travels together to traveling alone in a larger group. And we put this package together to help you take care of the big things—from where to stay and how to save money with points and miles —to the little ones, like how one app can change the group travel game.

We’re also letting you in on our best-kept secret, for when it’s time to throw your hands up and let the travel gods take over: Book a cruise . It’s what I did for my recent bachelorette party, where we paid just over $300 per person for 3 nights in the Caribbean, unlimited food and drinks, and endless entertainment. Okay, there was still a little planning, but it was limited to where we’d eat lunch on port day and whether we had brought enough sunscreen for our kayaking trip. As the de facto planner, I never had to think about signing a bill , or making sure everybody was entertained. I simply soaked it all in as my friends congregated in various combinations and got to know each other in vacation mode. It was the best gift I could have given myself—second to this guide, of course.

Four golden rules for every group trip

If you’re dealing with noncommittal guests, make everyone pay a deposit.

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Come together for at least one meal a day.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

11 Best Group Trip Providers According To Our Readers

• Activities and Interests
• Best Of Travel
• Best Of Travel Awards: 2023
• Group Travel
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Travel is one of the most exciting parts of life — it can mean experiencing new cultures, forging new friendships, or just relaxing on a beach. That said, the unfortunate reality is that there’s a great deal of planning and endless decision-making involved in setting up the perfect trip. Even then, it can be tricky to meet new people on shorter journeys.

Enter group trip providers: organizations that not only handle the tedium of planning travel but also set you up with like-minded individuals or couples to share in the adventure with. TravelAwaits readers tend to be a discerning bunch, so we asked them which group trip providers are worth the expense. Explore the results below to see which group best suits you.

1. National Geographic Expeditions (Winner)

National Geographic is a name that is inextricably tied to seeing the world. There are plenty of benefits to traveling with Nat Geo, but let’s start with their experts . The experts who guide trips are made up of the organization’s trusted writers, conservationists, photographers, and other explorers who know their subjects and regions like the backs of their hands.

In addition to world-class guides, National Geographic Expeditions offer a huge variety of trip types – from train , private jet , and riverboat journeys to its signature land and family trips. Travelers can explore just about any locale or culture that interests them in a responsible, but still exciting fashion.

2. Rick Steves’ Europe

Rick Steves is an entertainer and educator who highlights how knowing about a destination’s culture and history is an essential part of travel. Steves has shared this philosophy with the world over several decades through his writing, television shows, broadcasts, and speaking engagements.

Fans of his travel style can take one of many trips guided by his expertise and travel philosophy. From Portugal to Bulgaria and just about every European country in between, every corner of Europe can be explored with a Rick Steves group tour.

3. REI Co-Op Adventure Travel

REI began in the 1930s as a way for a group of local outdoorsmen to pool their resources to purchase high-quality mountaineering gear in bulk to save money. With over 23 million members and 181 stores worldwide, it’s safe to say the idea spread. The cooperative now offers the same member discount for experiences in addition to gear.

REI trips all include upfront information about difficulty level, group size, and activities included. Most also include whatever specialized gear is necessary, which helps keep costs lower for the traveler. For the outdoor gear junkie, the trips feature extensive packing lists as well. These adventures are a great social way to experience the wonders of the American outdoors.

4. Road Scholar

To once again generalize about TravelAwaits readers, it’s safe to say that they tend to love learning. For the education-focused traveler, Road Scholar trips are an incredible way to see the world. This non-profit organization builds every trip around education, with cultural experiences, talks and demonstrations by locals and experts, and more. Being on site keeps the learning engaging and memorable. With a large range of collections , Road Scholar offers trips for countless interests and destinations.

5. Overseas Adventure Travel

Overseas Adventure Travel is a group trip provider that puts a major emphasis on off-the-beaten-path journeys. The company was founded on the pursuit of personal growth through travel – especially travel to less-visited destinations. OAT trips are oriented toward smaller groups, which makes experiencing a destination a more intimate experience.

Trips include small-ship voyages around the Aegean Islands and Istanbul , a Morocco Sahara Odyssey , or a tour of Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe . And of course, the list doesn’t end there! In addition to popular destinations in Europe, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas, travelers can even explore Antarctica with Overseas Adventure Travel.

6. Girls’ Guide To The World

Solo travel as a woman comes with its share of baggage, but one solution to any concern is to join a group trip offered by Girls’ Guide to the World . Though the organization began with small trips to Paris, they now offer groups going to over 25 countries. With a dual focus on authentic and responsible travel, these trips can help curious travelers meet like-minded women and make long-term friendships.

The themed trips bear descriptive names like “ Living Like a Queen – Marie Antoinette’s World in Paris and Versaille ” and “ Goddess of the Nile .” Every trip includes an exciting itinerary full of inspiration and highlights of the trip.

With 98 years in the travel industry, the family-run company Tauck knows a thing or two about seeing the world. With a stated core goal of doing the right thing, Tauck offers exclusive access to experiences around the globe. The trips also promise to bring travelers into the communities they are visiting so they can learn about local life and culture.

Tauck provides guidance on trips to all seven continents, but a very small sample includes “ The Essence of Japan ,” “ Northern India and Nepal ,” “ Canadian Maritimes ,” and “ New Zealand: A North & South Island Adventure .”

8. Trafalgar Travel

Trafalgar Travel offers 303 trips in 72 countries over six continents. The company promises unparalleled access and insight into hidden gems, both of which are worth their weight in gold to enthusiastic travelers. In addition to special moments and experiences, Trafalgar is known for high-quality service at every step of the journey, making getting out into the world a breeze.

Finally, Trafalgar has set responsible travel as a guiding principle, focusing especially on clear goals around climate action, sustainable food production, responsible consumption, overtourism, and more.

9. Grand Circle Travel

Grand Circle Travel is a family of companies with the specific goal of providing life-changing experiences centered around human connections. While Grand Circle offers a variety of land trips, the cruise line arm of the business is noteworthy.

Grand Circle’s European river cruises take small groups of travelers through France, Holland, Hungary, and other countries on such famous rivers as the Rhône, Seine, Danube, and Rhine. For the seasonal experience of a lifetime, consider taking one of Grand Circle’s Christmas market cruises.

10. Globus Journeys

Globus Journeys is a company that’s all about striking a balance between fulfilling travel dreams while also exploring the undiscovered local side of different locations. On a Globus trip, you can expect to see iconic sights like the Colosseum or Machu Picchu, but also spend an afternoon baking in a small farm’s kitchen.

Globus Journeys makes picking a tour easy through their handy “ travel styles ” system. By breaking down travelers’ preferences, they ensure that everyone finds the right trip. Styles available range from “Small-Group Discoveries” and “Cosmos Tours” to “Undiscovered Tours” and “Faith-Based Vacations.”

11. Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC

Rounding out the list is Abercrombie & Kent , a company that emphasizes luxury small-group travel. Abercrombie & Kent attributes its success to having some of the best expert guides in the world, combined with an extensive network of partners who lead authentic experiences.

The catalog of small-group journeys includes itineraries dotted with the best luxury hotels and transportation. The “Marco Polo Journey” category is comprised of limited-edition trips that change from year to year. While the small-group journeys earned Abercrombie & Kent its place on this list, the company also offers other types of travel like tailor-made trips and private jet journeys.

Read more from our  2023 Best Of Travel Awards .

Dan Happe is an editor from Des Moines, Iowa. He loves that his work allows him to see the world from his desk, but he particularly enjoys articles that involve cycling, accessibility, and sustainability. When Dan isn’t reading or writing, he is repairing and riding bikes, cooking, and searching for the perfect cup of tea.

Small Group Adventures

Find Your Trip

Travel with like-minded adventurers.

A great journey is made even better when shared with great travel companions. Join us solo, with a partner, or with friends, and enjoy the camaraderie of traveling with a group of kindred spirits. On our scheduled Small Group Adventures you can expect world-class Trip Leaders, small groups—no more than 16—and fascinating itineraries that range from immersive cultural adventures to invigorating bucket-list treks.

What Makes Our Small Group Adventures Special?

• With over 150 journeys worldwide, we offer an unmatched range of experiences with tours designed for every interest and ability
• Our average group size is just 10—and never more than 16—the perfect size to keep things intimate, personalized, and flexible
• Our Trip Leaders are the best in the industry, and we often have two per trip, giving you plenty of 1:1 time
• We pre-set our departures for the best time to be at each destination, and handle all the details—all you have to do is relax and enjoy your vacation

Choose Your Activity Type

Browse our scheduled Small Group Adventures based on your specific interests. Whether you are looking for hiking and trekking adventures, snorkeling excursions, in-depth cultural encounters, or more, we have the trip for you.

Featured Small Group Adventures

Small Group Adventure

Great Elephant Migration Safari

Botswana, Zimbabwe

From $9,295

Southern Iceland Expedition

From $7,195

Everest Base Camp

From $5,595

Pilgrim’s Way: El Camino de Santiago

From $5,195

Tour du Mont Blanc

France, Italy, Switzerland

From $5,795

England Coast to Coast

From $6,895

Hiker’s Journey to Bhutan

From $7,095

Namibia Expedition

From $9,195

Hiking in Norway’s Fjord Country

Hiking in the Cortina Dolomites

From $5,295

Pyramids to Petra

Egypt, Jordan

From $11,395

Spirit of Ireland

From $6,495

Everest Lodge to Lodge

From $4,695

Morocco: Camels to Casbahs

Snorkeling Raja Ampat

Galapagos Adventure aboard the Passion

From $8,995

Costa Rica Wildlife

From $6,195

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

From $5,995

Ultimate Patagonia

Argentina, Chile

From $10,995

Tanzania: The Great Migration Safari

From $10,195

In the Wake of Cleopatra

From $8,595

Southern Spain to Morocco

Morocco, Spain

Botswana Wildlife Safari

From $9,895

Wildlife Adventures in Borneo

Malaysia, Borneo

Hiking Amalfi and Capri

From $6,395

Botswana: Kalahari Explorer

Botswana: Okavango Explorer

Climb Kilimanjaro!

Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos

From $7,495

Hiking Italy’s Volcano Trails

Hiking the Yorkshire Dales Way

From $5,495

Tribal Ghana, Togo, and Benin

Benin, Ghana, Togo

From $7,995

Wild Tasmania

From $7,795

Madagascar: Off the Beaten Path

Magical Madagascar

From $6,795

Mountain Gorilla Safari

From $7,895

Namibia: Giraffe Conservation Safari

From $9,595

Namibia: Green Season Safari

From $9,795

The Ultimate Uganda Safari

From $8,895

Ultimate Namibia and Botswana

Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana

From $11,595

Zambia Walking Safari

Zimbabwe: Green Season Safari

Call for Pricing

South Africa: From Sea to Savanna

South Africa

From $11,995

Southern Tanzania: Off the Beaten Path

A Northern Arc Across Ireland

From $6,995

Great Hikes and Cuisine of Northern Italy

Hiker’s Journey to Portugal

Hiking in the Greek Isles

Norway: Hiking Alesund and the Sunnmore Alps

Hiking the Cotswold Way and Wales

England, Wales

Hiking the Faroe Islands

Hiking the Fjords of Greenland and Iceland

Greenland, Iceland, Denmark

From $9,995

Lapland Adventures

Hiking Montenegro and the Adriatic Coast

Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro

Scotland’s Orkney Islands and Wild North Coast

From $7,395

The Turquoise Coast

Hiking the French Pyrenees

Hiking the Haute Route

France, Switzerland

Hiking the Isle of Madeira

From $4,895

Western Greenland Expedition

Greenland, Denmark

Winter Adventures in Iceland

Ultimate Haute Route

Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

From $6,295

Mont Blanc to the Mediterranean

Northern Iceland: Off the Beaten Path

Pagan Festivals of Sardinia

Treasures of Ireland’s West Coast

From $6,595

Treasures of the Dolomites

Hiking Tuscany and the Cinque Terre

From $6,695

Ultimate Dolomites

Central Asia Explorer

Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan

Central India: In the Realm of the Tiger

From $7,295

In the Realm of Genghis Khan

From $5,695

Kyrgyzstan: Hiking in the Celestial Mountains

Mongolia’s Golden Eagle Festival

From $8,495

Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India

From $9,695

Shinto Shrines, Pearl Divers, and Pilgrim Trails

Searching for Snow Leopards in India

From $7,595

Temples, Treasures, and Teahouses

From $10,595

The Great Game

Uzbekistan, China, Pakistan, Tajikistan

From $15,695

Treasures of South India

Ultimate Everest

Nepal: Lodge to Lodge Hiking in Upper Mustang

From $8,195

The Silk Road

From $12,495

Ultimate Uzbekistan

Wildlife of Eastern India: From Red Pandas to Rhinos

From $7,695

Tonga: Swimming with Humpback Whales

New Zealand: Ultimate South Island

New Zealand

Hiker’s Journey to New Zealand

From $8,295

Ultimate Galapagos aboard the Passion: Eastern and Western Islands

From $14,995

Glacier National Park and Blackfeet Powwow

From $8,795

Yellowstone & Grand Teton Wildlife Adventure

Trekking the Cordillera Blanca

From $4,995

Trekking the Cordillera Huayhuash

Hiker’s Journey to Machu Picchu

Treasures of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

Brazil: Jaguars and Wildlife of the Pantanal

Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia

Patagonia: Tracking Pumas and Cruising the Fjords

From $13,295

Snorkeling with Whale Sharks in Cenderawasih Bay

Snorkeling Expedition to Wakatobi

Desert Kingdom of Oman

Lost Worlds of Ethiopia

Hiking in Slovenia

From $6,095

Hiking in the Azores

Hiking Bergamo to Innsbruck

Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Liechtenstein

Hiker’s Journey to Morocco

Corsica and Sardinia

France, Italy

Croatia: Istria and the Dalmatian Coast

Slovenia, Croatia

From Bratislava to Prague

Czech Republic, Slovakia

From $5,395

Hiking in Sicily

Hiking Norway’s Lofoten Islands and Beyond

Hiking Puglia and Matera

Hiking the Heart of Switzerland

Switzerland

Namibia: Desert Lion Conservation Safari

Prehistoric Caves and Great Cuisine of France

Highlands and Islands of Scotland

Walking England’s Jurassic Coast and Channel Islands

From France to Spain: Hiking in the Basque Country

France, Spain

Morocco: The High Atlas Trek

From $4,795

Normandy and Brittany

Wild Zimbabwe

Hiking Switzerland’s Via Alpina

Hidden Villages of Northern Greece

From $4,395

Palau Snorkeling and Sea Kayaking

Hiking in Cornwall

Hiker’s Journey to the Caucasus

From $5,095

Japan: Snow Monkeys and Winter Cranes

New Zealand: Hidden Treasures of the Far North

Iran: In the Footsteps of Kings and Conquerors

Hiking the Alpe Adria: Salzburg to Trieste

Austria, Slovenia, Italy

Galapagos Adventure aboard the Coral II

Tour de Monte Rosa

Italy, Switzerland

Treasures of Mont Blanc

Hiking Australia’s Northern Territory

From $11,795

Nepal: Trek the Sacred Gokyo Lakes & Beyond

Pakistan: Hiking the Hunza Valley

Hiking Cape Verde

Cape Verde Islands

Hiking the Heart of the Balkans

From $4,595

India’s Kumbh Mela Festival

Adventures in Senegal, Gambia & Guinea-Bissau

Medieval France: The Lot Valley

REVIEWS FROM OUR CLIENTS

An incredible variety of activities was packed into the trip, yet we never felt rushed. It would be impossible to do what we did in the same period of time without the expertise of WT guides.

We can depend on WT to offer exceptional trips and great attention to detail, and the quality of the Trip Leaders is unsurpassed.

This was without a doubt one of the best trips I’ve taken in my entire life. The professionalism and thoughtfulness that was demonstrated time and time again by the crew and the staff was superlative. An outstanding experience for me and my kids!

You could not have designed a better itinerary. Every day, every lodge, every meal, every experience was (unbelievably) better than the day before. Thank you for making this a phenomenal travel experience that I’ll remember for a lifetime.

The trip design was brilliant. Each day we thought we had captured “the prize” but the next day was even better. How did you do this?

Impeccable itinerary and outstanding implementation. Every day delivered a new ‘oh my’ because of the variety of the scenery and experiences. Thanks, Wilderness Travel!

This was a truly exceptional trip where we felt that we were able to fully experience the Patagonian wilderness but from the relative comfort of some wonderful small hotels and estancias.

Met my hopes and then some. It was an “experience” – –more than a vacation. We learned a tremendous amount about the culture, Inca history and, of course, the country is beautiful and people are so very nice!

The small number of participants with Wilderness Travel makes a much more intimate interaction with the areas visited. It was wonderful being in a small group of ten. Our guide’s ability to spot things in the bush was pretty incredible—he found leopards for us (with their kills), lions we would never have seen, and every bird everywhere. Great personality, too!

Because of our Trek Leader’s vast experience in the area, we used several trails that aren’t known to many trekkers and we were invited into Sherpa homes, which was wonderful. I had been dreaming of this trip for 30 years and now those dreams are fulfilled.

I have dreamed of taking this trip for years. Truly this journey exceeded my expectations on all fronts. The wildlife, terrain, people, staff and fellow trip mates made it an adventure to always treasure. I feel blessed and fortunate. Thank you Wilderness Travel. You have my complete confidence.

Talk to an Expert

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our Small Group Adventures. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Group travel booking: all your questions answered

The 10 best group travel companies, 10 of the best group travel companies, 1. travelperk.

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2. g adventures.

• Unique and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences
• Hiking, cycling, rail, and marine tours
• Tours focused on wellness
• 18-to-thirty-somethings tours
• Solo traveler-friendly group trips

3. Intrepid Travel

• 18-29s tours
• Active adventures (hiking, biking, kayaking, etc)
• Adventure cruising (travel by boat)
• Family tours
• Wildlife and polar tours
• Women’s expeditions (all-female tours)
• Urban Adventures day tours

4. Exodus Travels

• Trips for those in their 30s-40s, families, and self-guided tours
• Mixed activity trips
• Small ship cruises
• Desert treks, coastal walks, and wildlife walks
• Private group adventures

5. MT Sobek

• Search based on activity/fitness level
• Hiking, trekking, rafting, and kayaking activities
• Family adventures
• Adventure cruising and camping
• Search by accommodation, including luxury hotels, safari camps and lodges, and rustic lodging
• Private and customized travel tours
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• 24/7 customer support

7. For the Love of Travel (FTLO)

• Weekend trips
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• A commitment to being a climate-neutral brand, supporting local economies, and only working with vendors that align with their values
• Low season travel tour deals
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9. EF Go Ahead Tours

• Multi-country tours
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• Private and customized group tours

10. Classic Journeys

• A loyalty program offering discounts and priority room assignments
• Groups and corporate luxury tours
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• Limited edition vacations such as visiting Japan’s cherry blossoms or viewing a solar eclipse
• A variety of walking, food and wine, multisport, and heritage and ancestry tours

What are the common challenges involved in booking trips for large groups of people?

Gathering all of the necessary group travel information, multiple moving parts are difficult to manage, what are group travel companies and what services do they typically offer, design travel itineraries according to client needs, offer locally based guides.

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Experience the Grandeur

Explore all the places we go in Europe

THIS IS WHAT AWAITS IN EUROPE

Towering castles. Untamed natural beauty. Captivating history. Can’t-miss cuisine. This is your time, your moment, your chance to discover Europe.

Destination Must-Sees

The capital and largest city of Andalusian Spain is Seville. Approximately 2,200 years old, the early origins of the city date back to the year 712. It is situated along the Guadalquivir River, which splits the city into two halves. Seville is famous for being the birthplace of the Flamenco dance. It is also known for its culture, monuments, traditions and artistic heritage.

The Costa del Sol:

This “Sunny Coast” is the southernmost part of Spain, stretching along the Mediterranean Sea. Its major province is Málaga, the home of Picasso. To the far west part of the Costa del Sol is the Strait of Gibraltar, which separates the Mediterranean from the Atlantic. The sunny provinces of the Costa del Sol are known for their golden sandy beaches, fresh Mediterranean seafood and relaxing atmosphere.

Irish countryside:

Take in the atmosphere of quaint seaside villages, see awe inspiring views of the Lakes of Killarney and explore the picturesque town of Kinsale. Wherever you travel in the countryside, you’ll find that the rolling hills and friendly people you encounter will become a part of your fabric.

Ancient cities of Italy:

Italy is positively brimming with the world’s most famous Roman ruins like the Colosseum, Pompeii and many other relics from the ancient past. In fact, many cities in Italy still hold evidence of what once was. You can find an aqueduct, city gate, Roman theater or the ruins of an entire city there.

Destination Must-Dos

La Sagrada Familia:

Meaning the Holy Family, this modern structure is known as the church of the people, built by the people, with the money of the people. While it is not the cathedral of Barcelona, it is widely known due to its unique architecture and phenomenal design initiated by architect Antoni Gaudí. Work on the exploratory church began in 1882 and continues to this day, but with modern technology and the rising number of visitors and donations, the church’s completion date has rapidly become closer. The facades of the church are breathtaking in their intricate and artistic details, all of which were inspired by Gaudí.

The Palace of Versailles

The iconic Palace of Versailles (UNESCO) and its gardens reflect the extravagant tastes of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King." Alongside a local guide, learn the history and admire the various rooms of the State Apartments, including the Queen's bedchamber and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Be sure to explore the incredible gardens, some of the most famous in the world, which took over 40 years to complete and include intricate architecture, elaborate fountains, and gorgeous statues.

Drift down a canal:

While canals are found across Europe, nothing beats a romantic gondola ride in Venice. Locals like to say the best way to explore the city is to ‘get lost.’ So take a ride along these waterways, step off and then wind your way through the intricate blend of bridges, narrow streets and grand squares.

This was the first capital of Spain located about 43 miles south of Madrid. The history of Toledo dates back to the Roman occupation circa 192 B.C. The old city of Toledo sits atop of a small mountain surrounded on three sides by the Tagus River, and medieval walls on the fourth. From the top of the mountain you can get a 180 degree view of the surrounding landscape.

Expert Advice

Featured Tours to Europe

Venice and Croatian Islands Cruise

Flavors of Portugal & Spain: featuring Barcelona

A Taste of the Balkans featuring Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina & Slovenia

Exploring Greece and Its Islands featuring Classical Greece, Mykonos & Santorini

Flavors of Portugal & Spain: featuring the Douro and Rioja Wine Regions

Treasures of Turkey Istanbul, Ancient Ephesus & Cappadocia

Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales

Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

See our travelers on tour, brochures that feature our europe tours, destinations in europe.

Magnificent landscapes combined with the country’s charming traditions and customs offer new experiences unlike anywhere else in the world. Famous for bullfighting, Spain allows you to grab life by the horns and dive into adventure. Whether it’s the eye-catching architecture of Madrid, the bold Spanish wines, or the shimmering Costa del Sol, this country remains a delight to the senses. Once you experience Spain, you’ll never want to leave and when you do, you’ll always be craving more.

A gem of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is a paradise. On the coasts, sun-soaked beaches meet breathtaking hillside towns all down the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. In the cities, ancient structures rise up shoulder-to-shoulder with modern living. Everywhere you turn, you can find mouth-watering food paired with delicious local wines, medieval architecture paired with Moorish artistic influence, and friendly locals paired with charming attitudes. No matter what you seek, when you go, where you look, or how long you stay, Portugal offers something for every traveler.

Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!

A rendezvous with a magnifique experience awaits! As cliché as it sounds, France truly has something for everyone. With over two dozen cities, each with their own nuances of the French culture and contributions to its history, architecture, art and last but not least, the gastronomical delights that the French are famous for throughout the world are yours to explore, experience and fall in love with during your stay. Coast to coast, border to border, there are seemingly endless variations on your French experience to be had. Rolling hills and scenic valleys lined with the fruit of the gods; seaside towns, along sandy beaches with views you just might be sharing with royalty; or maybe snowcapped mountain ranges providing some of the best skiing in the world and an adrenaline rush to match is what you seek. Whatever you decide, France easily makes you feel as if you have stepped out of reality and into the art you learned about and loved since you were a child.

At the heart of Europe, monumental contemporary and historic events shape today’s Germany. From the fall of the Berlin Wall to the rise of the Beatles in Hamburg, the culture of the country is marked by its influential past and present. Imagine yourself exploring postcard-worthy castles such as Neuschwanstein or wandering through medieval cities such as Regensburg. From the Bavarian Alps to the Rhine Gorge to the plains of the north, the range of Germany’s landscapes will capture your heart. Perhaps you’ll also indulge your taste buds as you sample the delicious Marzipan sweet treats of the Hanseatic port of Lubeck, which have been produced there for over 200 years. Whether on a journey on the ‘Romantic Road’ or cruising along the Rhine, know that a stein of German beer or a glass of wine from the Rhine vineyards are both a worthy compliment to a destination that offers far more than the average traveler anticipates.

Switzerland

Incredible skiing on the Swiss Alps and delectable Swiss chocolate are only two reasons for visiting Switzerland. Located between Austria, France, Germany and Italy, you can get quite a diverse European cultural experience depending on which region of Switzerland you choose. And though the food, music, art and people themselves are very much influenced by their European neighbors, they are all still uniquely Swiss. You will leave with plenty of memories to savor for a lifetime.

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USA Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in USA by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in USA will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

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250+ usa small group tours with 2,694 reviews.

Alaska Kenai & Denali Adventure

Everything was great organized, our CEO Megan was so kind and well prepared.

• Mountain Hikes

Yellowstone & Rocky Mountain Explorer

Yellowstone/Grand Teton Camping Tour Amazing trip to National Parks (Yellowstone & Grand Teton) in Montana/Wyoming! Each day, the guide made it possible to explore tens of incredible places in addition to the standard touristic spots, not forgetting to enjoy untouched flora and fauna and to spot wild animals. Camping was comfortable, a large variety of fresh food was proposed for breakfast/launch/dinner, sleeping bags kept warm even on relatively cold nights, driving was not exhausting due to many stops and the transport was suited well for a group of 12.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Hiking & Trekking

7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

Very well organized....

Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite

Great and rewarding experience.

• Christmas & New Year

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

Excellent tour. Our guide Robin, was very informative and had an entertaining flair. We went to a series of awe-inspiring viewpoints and did some wonderful hikes in what were referred to as “the mighty five” of Utah. An unforgettable trip with a terrific group of people and a very knowledgeable, gregarious guide.

Wild Western USA

The tour guide Chris was amazing.

• In-depth Cultural

Vegas to San Fran

• Sightseeing

Grand Canyon and More 3 day tour

Great trip. Well organized with good amount of flexibility. The parks are amazing and this tour is a great way to explore them in a short period. Definitely recommend.

• Photography
• Walking Adventure

Yellowstone / Grand Teton 4 Day / 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

Although the tour was very expensive- over $2000 for 3 days is over the top- it wss a great experience, saw lots of wildlife and the guide was outstanding

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons Adventure

Tim was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and always upbeat. Time with the wildlife expert was phenomenal. the tour itself was excellent. The good ranking has to do with communications from Intrepid Travel, which were poor and lead to changed air flights and other headaches.

Alaska Kenai Adventure 9 Days

Tour was an original, special way to see Parts of Alaska. Too camp in all of those special places with such incredible people is an experience I’ll never forget

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

LA to Vegas: Grand National Parks

The "Vegas to LA : Grand national parks" trip was great! Our tour leader, Juli, was really accomodating and always had an answer when asked a question about the natural parks. Plus, she made efforts to speak in a way that even people who are not 100% at ease with English could understand, which was nice. The season was perfect to hike in the parks, I just wish we could have stayed more time in some of them (Bryce Canyon, Joshua Tree…).

Discover American Canyonlands National Geographic Journeys

Matthew (CEO) was great. As issues/challenges arose (which they inevitably do) Matthew addressed them, and provided options/alternatives, which he presented to the group and the group came to a consensus. A suggestion for Management/Tour Operator, The "meeting" with a Native American who was to talk about his/her Native American culture, should be given "guardrails" and stay within their "Lane". There are those who do not share the presenter's same political viewpoint as the presenter and the presenter should respect that his/her audience may have differing political viewpoint(s) and stay away from brining politics into their presentation. Again Matthew (CEO) was a great ambassador for the Tour Operator and we would definitely take another tour/trip with Matthew!

Utah Parks Circuit

We did this trip during the government strike in 2013 which meant all the National Parks were closed. Intrepid did a WONDERFUL job mitigating the situation and we still got to go camping and hiking at some select state parks. Luckily, the Grand Canyon was re-opened before our trip ended which was awesome. What a finale! Thank You Intrepid for giving us an awesome itinerary despite the challenges.

• Overland Truck

Alaska Adventure - 20 Days

Great itinerary Natalie and Dave Great

Reviews of Small Group tours to USA

Mesmerizing Grand Tetons! I've been with Bindlestiff before and they did not disappoint the second time! Grand Tetons was mesmerizing and I am so glad I got this done through Bindlestiff!

What a lifetime experience everyone needs Jun 2023 • Solo Within 7 days, we drove in 3 states, visited 5 national parks / 2 state parks, hiked 60 miles, made friends from 7 different states/nations, and eventually traveled through the iconic Route 66 back to Las Vegas. What a lifetime experience everyone needs Day 1 - Zion National Park Day 2 - Bryce Canyon National Park Day 3 - Canyonlands National Park Day 4 - Arches National Park Day 5 - Monument Valley Navajo Nation Day 6 - Grand Canyon National Park / Antelope State Day 7- Grand Canyon back to Las Vegas via Historic Route 66 AMAZING!

• USA Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Backpacking Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• Best time to visit East Coast USA (Low & High Season)
• Best Time to Visit the West Coast, USA in 2024/2025 (with California)
• Best USA Vacation Spots for Couples: Parks, Cities and more
• 5 Best Guided Backpacking Trips & Tours
• Best 10 Day USA Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Kleingruppenreisen in der USA
• Français: Circuits États-Unis en petit groupe
• Español: Circuitos por Estados Unidos (EUA) para grupos pequeños
• Nederlands: Groepsreizen met kleine groepen in USA

All Inclusive Group Vacation Packages

An all-inclusive group vacation packages from travel by bob are a great way to spend time with family and friends.

Whether it’s a girls’ getaway, a guys’ golf trip, a family reunion, or a company outing, Travel By Bob can handle any group large or small.

Group travel vacation packages are great and a lot of fun, but coordinating individual schedules, gathering paperwork, relaying Q&As, and other information from everyone in the group can be stressful.

Our group program allows each room to be booked individually and receive a discount on the package price. When travel dates & resorts have been decided, we will provide your group with an exclusive promo code to use when booking. The promo code will give everyone a discount on the current package price and also allows us to keep track of everyone in the group.

We have contacts with all of our resort partners and are in constant communication with them relaying your groups’ requests. The promo code will be valid until 30 days prior to departure. Members of the group can travel from any U.S. airport for a minimum of 3 nights and use the promo code. Guests’ departure date must start within 4 days before and 4 days after the group leader’s departure date to be eligible for the discount.

With a group of at least 5 rooms , you’ll have the opportunity to qualify for added benefits, including a special promotional code discount, Exclusive Nonstop Vacation flight credits, and any other applicable group inclusions, exclusive to our group program. Consider using our group department today for your wedding, family reunion, bachelor/bachelorette party, or other social/leisure events!

See below for how to get started:

1. Choose a Destination, Dates, and a Hotel

For specific property details and/or current day pricing/availability, we encourage you to utilize our online booking engine on this website or contact our Reservations team at 1-866-504-6180

2. Request Your Promo Code

Call us toll-free at 1-866-504-6180 or email us at [email protected] and be prepared with your group name, destination, dates of travel, and one specific hotel choice. You will receive an email from us with information for your code, how to book, the discount tiers (up to $225 off per booking), and any other applicable group benefits.

3. Happy Booking!

Share your promo code with your fellow travelers. Although you will be the primary contact responsible for your group, all travelers will still book individually and apply the promotional code to their reservation in order to be associated with the group. If a reservation is made through our Call Center, be sure the promo code is mentioned to the Reservations agent so they may apply it on your behalf.

Benefits of booking your group with TravelByBob.com:

• Exclusive contact information with all of our resort partners to supply requests for your group (rooms together, dining reservations, etc.)
• Discounted air and hotel rates for everyone in the group
• On-site 24/7 tour operator assistance at most of the resorts
• 24-hour travel assistance

Discount & Specials

When a qualified promo code is applied to the booking, guests will receive the exclusive discounts.

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Visiting bucket list sites are a highlight of traveling, however, traveling on your own can make them hard work. Don’t queue with other sightseers for hours, with Trafalgar our experts unlock doors –  think exclusive access to the Vatican out of hours or a tour of Versailles and its grounds with an expert. This, coupled with the intimate glimpses and hidden gems our local specialists show you, are the life-changing experiences that make you feel like an insider, not a tourist.

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Thanks to our global network you’ll unlock local access to communities and people around the world. Our 100+ Be My Guest experiences are a signature Trafalgar exclusive, where you will enjoy the hospitality of locals as you are welcomed into their homes to hear their stories and learn about their cultures. In every destination, you’ll also enjoy unique “Stays with stories” accommodation: more than just a place to rest your head, they are part of the heritage and fabric of the communities you visit. 

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When you choose Trafalgar, you are choosing to make your travels a force for good and support our goal to MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®. We recognize our responsibility to ensure we make a positive impact on the planet we call home, the people we visit, and the rich wildlife we find. We ensure that the impacts of our business and your travels are positive in two ways: through our TreadRight Foundation, and our 5-year sustainability strategy How We Tread Right.

Here's what you'll experience

Repeat Guests

Guest Satisfaction

Years Experience

Dolores & Jay

Taking it home. "So many new foods! I love cooking, so have challenged myself to recreate some dishes from memory for friends at home." - Dolores

Craig & Graham

A wedding to remember. "The Trafalgar team on tour pulled out all the stops to create our dream wedding at the drop of a hat. In the most beautiful location, surrounded by our friends, it was perfect." - Craig

Alice & Mary Jane

Looking to the future. "We have a lot of history with one another, and now we'll go home with new special memories, which is exactly what we wanted to create." - Alice

Millie & Ryan

A fresh perspective. "Getting out of your comfort zone always gives a different perspective. Seeing how they live their lives is a big part of it, even those from within our own tour group." - Ryan

Mita & Sribash

Keeping the spark alive. "After 35 years of marriage, to travel with my soulmate, my anchor, my rock, just reminds me of how much in love we are." - Mita

Cassandra & Kristen

Go with the flow. "Whether it was unexpected experiences or unexpected nights out – we just enjoyed every minute." - Cassie

Ashlinn & Edward

Finding her light. "With so many moments to indulge my passion for photography, I’ve captured thousands of picture-perfect memories." - Aishlinn

Lawrence & Avery

Memories across generations. "My grand-niece now knows more about me, and I know a whole lot more about her. Forever in the memory bank." - Lawrence

Candace & Jacqueline

A respect for all. "I come from a small American town, so to experience so many different cultures and religions was really enjoyable, I took a lot away from that." - Jackie

Beautiful souvenirs. "Yes, I've done a lot of shopping on this trip – but the most valuable souvenirs will be the beautiful memories, beautiful photos, beautiful experiences with the locals, and of course, with the friends I've made." - Candy

Leith & David

Have more experiences. "Don't get hung up on possessions. Traveling with Trafalgar has given us so many experiences – memories that we'll cherish forever." - Leith

Madeline & Jascha

Feeling the buzz. "Meeting other people and sharing experiences means we kind of bounced off each other's energy, and I think that makes travel exciting." - Madeline

Sarah & Pushp

Life is precious. "Hearing about the war, what people had to go through, reminded me never to take for granted how lucky we are." - Sarah

Benedict & Twinie

A welcome surprise. "To discover how beautiful Central Europe is as a destination has inspired us to see more. Full of hidden gems, it was the perfect place to celebrate our anniversary." - Benedict

Tracy & Kimberly

Learning new steps. "I never thought I would be dancing in the street! So much fun learning traditional steps, and a first for me." - Tracey

Rochelle & Shayne

Finding a talent. "Who knew I’d be good at coppersmithing? I just picked up those tools and went to work." - Rochelle

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Group Tours

• Accommodation - an Insta-perfect villa or a cute apartment, your TripLeader picks the perfect one for your comfort
• Transportation during the tour
• Attractions and activities
• Meals - a luscious local restaurant or a barbecue night, nothing is less than tasty!
• Experienced TripLeader
• Tailor-made itineraries - flexible with a good amount of free time
• Skip the planning part. Our TripLeaders will handle the hefty stuff, so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy an extraordinary travel experience.
• There is safety in number. Sticking with your group allows you to travel safely and comfortably.
• Share costs and save your wallet. Get luscious and fun experiences while paying less.
• Get to know your TripMates before the trip. You won't be traveling with a total stranger as you will stay connected in a group chat before the departure.
• We conduct thorough background checks on our TripLeaders and verify all TripMates
• Also, if any problems arise during your trip, our 24/7 support is available remotely to assist you with any questions or concerns.
• Our free JoinMyTrip Travel Insurance , powered by Allianz, will cover you (applicable only for the residents of Austria and Germany) in case of any unforeseen situations. So you can travel with peace of mind and enjoy your adventure.

United States Small Group Tours & Trips

1,973 united states trips. tours from 275 tour companies. 2,394 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating..

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Western USA National Parks Loop

Bryce Canyon, Bryce Canyon National Park, Las Vegas, Zion National Park

• Hike through the varied landscapes of Zion National Park, taking in views of massive canyon walls and red sandstone cliffs as you go.
• Learn about the culture and history of Monument Valley during a Navajo guided tour, followed by a traditional homecooked, family-style Navajo lunch.
• Stroll along the canyon rim in Bryce Canyon National Park to admire the out-of-this-world sandstone spires known as hoodoos.
• Kayak across the waters of Lake Powell, weaving your way past fascinating rock formations as your leader shares stories of the lake’s history.
• Marvel at one of the nation’s greatest national parks, The Grand Canyon, and walk along the rim, hike into the canyon or take in an epic sunset or sunrise (depending on season)

High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Health Safety +

USA Road Trip- The Best of Cali

California, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Yosemite National Park

• Drive up the coast from los angeles to santa margarita with stops in santa monica and san luis obispo
• Embark on a hike through the dramatic scenery in julia pfeiffer burns state park
• Set off on an orientation tour of san francisco
• Enjoy the many wonders of yosemite national park
• Catch a few waves with a surf lesson in southern california

Trekking & Expeditions

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

LA to Vegas: Grand National Parks

Arizona, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Monument Valley, Utah, Venice, Zion National Park

• From flashy Los Angeles to the arid desert of Zion National Park and the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, discover a range of incredible American landscapes.
• Take in desert views from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway before exploring Joshua Tree National Park's rock formations and cactus gardens at golden hour.
• Witness the Grand Canyon’s steep red-rock escarpments and gorges. Learn about Indigenous history and geology with a naturalist guide from the Grand Canyon Conservancy.
• Ride a jeep through Utah's iconic Monument Valley, and then share stories and a meal by the campfire with members of the Navajo Nation.
• At Lower Antelope Canyon, descend into the mystical interior with a Navajo guide. Learn the local history and discover the iconic sandstone walls shaped by years and years of water and wind.

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

All United States , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about United States

Walk Spain's Sierra Nevada & Granada

Granada, Sierra Nevada

• Embark on beautiful walks through the highest mountain range in Spain
• Discover whitewashed Moorish settlements
• Visit Trevelez, the highest village in the country
• Stay at a family-run hotel with stunning views and warm hospitality
• Enjoy a night in Granada with a free day to explore this beautiful city

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Trekking & Expeditions

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

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Western USA National Parks Explorer

Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon, California, Capitol Reef National Park, Colorado, Death Valley, Golden Gate Bridge, Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, Las Vegas, Mesa Verde, Moab, Monument Valley, New York, San Francisco, Sierra Nevada, Utah, Venice, York, Yosemite National Park, Zion National Park

• Journey through some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet
• Discover vibrant San Francisco and the desert city of Las Vegas
• Enjoy walking in Yosemite, Zion, Bryce and Grand Canyon national parks

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, Trekking & Expeditions

"This was an excellent trip that was varied and well led."

Outdoor Alaska

Alaska, Anchorage, Chugach Mountains, Denali, Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward, Valdez, Wrangell

• Exploration of Alaska's dramatic wilderness
• Sea kayak to giant glaciers and explore alpine tundra
• Wildlife spotting; from grizzly bears to whales

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

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Natural Highlights of California

California, Death Valley, Death Valley National Park, Golden Gate Bridge, Kings Canyon National Park, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Sequoia National Park, Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park

• Immerse yourself in the stark beauty of death valley
• Cross the stunning sierra nevada mountains
• Explore world-famous yosemite national park on a naturalist walk
• Marvel at ancient trees in sequoia national park
• Enjoy a full day in kings canyon national park

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

Trek America: Canyons & National Parks

• Discover five breath-taking national parks
• Enjoy a Navajo tour in Monument Valley
• Marvel at the Grand Canyon
• Take the Narrows slot canyon walk

Hiking & Walking

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Best United States Tours by Duration

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Related Tours

United states reviews & ratings, i have had an absolutely amazing trip.

My wife and I have had an absolutely amazing trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles via Napa Valley, Yosemite, Death Valley, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Monume...

Tour:   LA to Vegas: Grand National Parks

An absolutely amazing experience,

An absolutely amazing experience, would highly recommend to anyone. Parks we...

Vanessa and Martin

The Vegas to LA trip is amazing.

The Vegas to LA trip is amazing. Excellent and diverse range of trip experiences. Wonderful and breathtaking locations of the Canyons with opportunities to explore b...

The trip itself was amazing!

The trip itself was amazing! The Venus were interesting and beautiful. The food was delicious (especially the buffet at The Grand on Mackinac Island). We enjoyed get...

Tour:   Mackinac Island featuring Niagara Falls

It was a great trip

It was a great trip with a great group. The food and accommodations were very nice. Our bus broke down at one point but our guide and driver handled it as quickly an...

See all United States reviews

United States Tour Selection Trips

• The United States is a very big country. Don’t try to see it all at once; choose tours that concentrate on specific regions or you’ll spend a lot of time just getting from one place to another.
• If you’re looking for an action-oriented tour, consider:
• Whitewater  rafting  trips in the Northwest;
• Horseback riding through the Southwest;
• Hiking  trips through the Appalachians;
• Skiing packages in the Rocky Mountains; and Scuba diving in Hawaii or Florida.
• River cruising is growing in popularity in the U.S. -- you can cruise the  Mississippi River , the Intracoastal Waterway, the Columbia River; and many others to get a new perspective on the landscape.
• If you’re a history or literary buff, look for river cruises that have the Civil War, Mark Twain or other themes of interest.
• Don’t overlook the “flyover states” that lie between the East and West coasts; there’s much to discover in the Midwest, the South, Great Plains and Rocky Mountain states, including:
• Chicago -- America’s “second city”;
• The five Great Lakes;
• Mt. Rushmore and the Badlands in South Dakota;
• New Orleans, with French-influenced architecture and outstanding music and food;
• The burgeoning cities of San Antonio, Houston and Austin in Texas;
• The incredible rock spires in Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park;
• Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado;
• The white-sand Gulf Shore beaches of Florida and Alabama; and Yellowstone and Glacier national parks in Wyoming and Montana.

Additional details

Best Time to Travel to the United States

When is the best time to travel in the US? It depends on the time of year and region you're visiting. But, while the thought of heading to the cold northeast in winter might bring chills, there’s nothing like New York at Christmas time where you can ice skate in Central Park, ooh and aah at the shop windows on 5th Avenue bedecked with holiday decorations and catch the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. That said, no matter where you’re coming from, here are some things to consider when traveling to the US:

Summer vacations for Americans fall between June and August. This is also the time when the majority of primary, secondary and college level schools and universities take their summer break. This is especially important when considering the big tourist attractions such as national parks , Disneyland and Los Angeles, both in California as well as the theme parks of Orlando, Florida. The lower airfare and lodging rates are a sign that the high summer travel season has ended come late August, early September.   

Spring break time for students can start as early as mid-February and go to early April depending on the school but for most it falls the second week in March. As in summer, air travel and lodging is more expensive during this time of year. Orlando, Florida and Los Angeles, California again make the list for being overrun with tourists during Spring Break but also, Las Vegas, Nevada; Honolulu, Oahu; the island of Maui in Hawaii and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. 

At the end of the summer and winter ski seasons, in some heavily visited destinations and tourist attractions alike, you might find closed attractions, shops and restaurants or they may have shorter hours. The mud season in mountain ski towns refers to thawing snow that causes muddy conditions on back country trails. In Telluride, Colorado, for example, not all shops and restaurants are open during mud season and in the Fall after a summer season filled with festivals and other mountain attractions, the gondola shuts down for a period of time for maintenance. 

Understand weather conditions before you go, pack and set expectations accordingly. There are always things to discover no matter the weather but if you abhor rain, it’s best not to travel to a destination during the rainy season if you can help it. 

San Francisco, located on the central coast of California , doesn’t have the warmer temperatures of Southern California. Summer temperatures in San Francisco average in mid-60s with lows in the mid-50s, sometimes low-50s. Wind and fog can make these temps seem even colder. 

In the Great Lakes region, there’s the late Fall and Winter lake effect. Cold air usually coming from Canada sweeps across the open waters of the lakes, warming and collecting moisture from the relatively warm, unfrozen waters. As this air rises, clouds form and grow. They are capable of producing snow at a rate of 2-3” or more per hour. Heavy snow may be falling in one location while just a mile or two away it can be sunny. 

Rain is another consideration. Several locations in Oregon and Washington top the list for US locations with the heaviest annual precipitation with levels between 100-130” per year. And in Rochester, New York, located on the shores of Lake Ontario, it’s either raining or snowing 167 days of the year (on average). 

Common US Tour Routes 

• New England
• American south
• Pacific Northwest

Start your trip planning in the U.S. by narrowing down the region or regions you’d like to visit. Each will have its own flavor and highlights whether you plan a trip to New England, the East Coast, American South, Southwest, Pacific Northwest or the West Coast. And in some regions like the West Coast, Seattle, Washington, will be very different from Los Angeles, California.

San Francisco, while a coastal town like Los Angeles will have its own very unique vibe.  Venturing into the wilds of Alaska or Hawaiian island hopping are yet other itineraries although they are more often stand-alone trips given their location quite far from the contiguous 48 states. Here are some common week plus to 2-week long tour routes in the U.S. 

1. New England - Consider starting in historic Boston, Massachusetts then traveling north to the seaside towns of Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine. While in Maine, visit Acadia National Park then travel west through the White Mountains of New Hampshire to the four-season resort town of Stowe, Vermont. Traveling south will take you back toward Massachusetts.

Take a detour on your way back to Boston by continuing south through Connecticut and into Newport, Rhode Island. There you can gape at the opulent historic mansions that were built during Newport’s gilded age.  

2. East Coast Cities - A trip through Boston, Massachusetts; New York City, New York; and Washington, D.C. will be an incredible one over ten days or so, depending on your pace of travel. East coast tours often include a visit to Niagara Falls in upstate New York and even the Canadian cities of Ottawa, Toronto and, or Quebec City given their proximity to New York.

If you have more time in the region, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania located between New York and D.C. is another destination to consider.  To venture out of the big cities, include charming Cape Cod in your itinerary. The Cape is a peninsula of Massachusetts with the resort islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket just a short ferry ride away.  

3. American South - On a trip through New Orleans, Louisiana; Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Charleston and Savannah, South Carolina; and Georgia, Atlanta, you’ll discover country music, mouth-watering barbeque, the darker side of American history - slavery - the home of Elvis and more.

If you have more time, skip further south into Florida where you can visit Orlando, home to more than a dozen theme parks including Disney World and Universal. Miami, Florida's southern tip, is a popular vacation spot with its trendy nightlife, beaches, art, and plush hotels.  

4. Southwest - An altogether different experience than those you’ll find in the South and on the East Coast is a trip to the American Southwest. A New Mexico, Southern Colorado, and Arizona itinerary often includes glitzy Las Vegas, Nevada which is just over four hours by car from Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona).

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park on the Arizona Utah border is not far from the Grand Canyon. On a 17-mile drive through the Valley, try to avoid too much looking through the camera - the cluster of towering sandstone buttes is one of the most photographed places on Earth.

In Southern Colorado not far from Monument Valley, visit Mesa Verde National Park - you’ll be amazed to see how the Ancestral Puebloans lived. The town of Santa Fe, south of Mesa Verde and located in New Mexico, is the oldest capital city in the U.S.

It’s here you’ll find influences from Native Americans, Spanish, and the Old West.  Other areas to consider in the Southwest include the desert town of Sedona and Tombstone, Arizona; Taos, New Mexico; and Moab and Canyonlands of Utah. 

5. Pacific Northwest - A trip to the Pacific Northwest might include Vancouver, Canada; Seattle, Washington; Portland, Oregon; and San Francisco, located on California’s central coast, even though most don’t consider it to be a Pacific Northwest city. Plan on some outdoor excursions in Vancouver, Seattle, and Portland as the mountainous areas surrounding these cities are lush with trees and vegetation.

The lofty peaks of the Cascade Range will give you plenty of activities to choose from no matter what time of year. And outside of San Francisco raising a glass in the world-renowned wine country of Napa and Sonoma is a must along with a visit to charming seaside communities like Carmel. 

6. West Coast - Seattle, Washington; San Francisco and Los Angeles, California is a wonderful and diverse itinerary with so much to see and do not to mention the attractions located within a four-hour drive or less from each city. Seattle has many natural wonders outside its back door.

From San Francisco, it’s well worth visiting the wine country of Napa and Sonoma, the seaside communities both north and south along the coast, Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe. From Los Angeles, there’s Disneyland, Santa Barbara, Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park, and Laguna Beach among many other places to visit.

Cross Country US Tours

Told through innumerable books, songs, movies and television series, the lore of the American highway is ingrained in its culture. And on a guided cross country tour you can take one without having to worry about where the next gas station or rest stop is. You also get to leave timing between destinations to your tour guide. Best of all, you can see a great number of attractions in a relatively short period of time. 

Most trips are under $200 a day. The most expensive trips take you to various attractions and cities in Alaska, a remote region requiring more logistics than trips in the lower 48. Trips in the US range from one to weeks with two weeks being more common. This gives you time not only to cover more ground but also, to get a better feel for what the region has to offer. 

Note that tour companies may name a trip after the region where you’ll be spending the most time. This can be confusing but most trips have a map image so you can see the route. Typical cross country routes and sample itineraries:

Pacific Northwest/West Coast - On Cosmos’ Pacific Coast Explorer  for example , you’ll land in Los Angeles and from there drive north along the rugged Pacific Coast all the way to Oregon. Not to miss stops along the way include Santa Barbara, Carmel, San Francisco, the wine country, Redwood National Park and once in Oregon, Coos Bay. See what remains of Mt. St. Helens and ascending over 14,000 feet, Mt. Rainier on your way to the Emerald City of Seattle so called because of its forested surroundings. 

East Coast into the Midwest/Great Lakes - Visit New York; Philadelphia; D.C. the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains; Nashville; Louisville; Detroit; Chicago and Niagara Falls on Intrepid Travel’s East USA Adventure . 

West - Tours to the west are often focused on national parks in the region. These parks are wildly diverse and some of the most visited in the country.  On Trafalgar’s Scenic Parks tour, the trip will start 550 feet above the Las Vegas strip on the world’s tallest observation wheel. You’ll visit Zion, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands and Arches National Parks in Utah; Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks in Wyoming; Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado and last but not least, the immense Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona before you return to Las Vegas. 

Cross Country - These trips often start in New York. They take a southern route across the US. On Intrepid Travel’s New York to Las Vegas tour you’ll start in New York and head south to Washington, D.C. before touring to Nashville and Memphis in Tennessee, stopping along the way to camp in the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains. From there, you’ll travel through Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico and Colorado. Your trip culminates with the stunning Grand Canyon and last but not least, Las Vegas.

Another cross country trip takes you along the famed Route 66. It was one of the first US highways linking Chicago to Santa Monica, in the county of Los Angeles. Highlights of Route 66 will give you the vibe of travel between the 1920s and 1960s and an appreciation for cultural and economic impact of Route 66. You’ll take some side trips, including a visit to the Grand Canyon.

What to Pack

Check weather conditions. When joining a tour, they will likely have a packing list to help you pack for maximum comfort and safety. Consider these travel essentials no matter where you are traveling:

Cell phone and if traveling from outside the US, pay as you go or unlimited cell service plans - buy in the US or before you go, download Whatsapp for text and voice, etc. 

A copy of your passport and credit/ATM cards with contact numbers kept separate 

A notebook for the above which can also double as a travel journal

The right credit card - some charge foreign transaction fees, some do not. Some offer access to airport lounges.

Itinerary and confirmation numbers for hotel, rental car, etc. 

In-flight entertainment and medications

Headphones/ear plugs

Adapters/converters 

Power charger(s)

Disinfecting wipes

Emergency contacts 

Medications list

Travel blanket and pillow 

Slippers/flip flops 

Empty water bottle to fill after security

Snacks/gum/mints

Make a list of clothes and toiletries in the days prior and check off that list as you pack to make sure you remember to bring everything 

Sun protection - hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, protective clothing

American Culture 

If you’ve read about the regions of the U.S., you have an idea of how difficult it is to describe American culture as anything but incredibly diverse. Its flavor comes from Indigenous habitants and immigrants of African, Asian, European, English and Pacific Island descent. People of Hispanic or Latino/a origin have also greatly influenced U.S. culture. 

This is all the more reason why stereotypes, applied to most cultures as a matter of fact, generally don’t apply. After all, no matter where you travel in the world you discover that in actuality the stereotypes are only reflected in the behaviors of a few. In the U.S., the vast majority of people you meet will be friendly, hospitable, generous and open.

They will often smile if you make eye contact with them while walking along the street, for example, and they are a freedom-loving and creative people, highly influenced by technology and materialism. 

U.S. Religion . While the vast majority of Americans consider themselves Christian, nearly every known religion and spiritual practice can be found in the U.S. It’s not uncommon to meet people who do not practice a particular religion or spirituality yet they still consider themselves to be religious or spiritual. 

U.S. language . There is no one official language but Spanish, Chinese, French, and German are the most commonly spoken languages and in Hawaii, the official language is both English and Hawaiian. Business is conducted in English.

American Style . Fashion in the U.S., as you might have guessed, is varied. It’s also mostly casual and greatly influenced by movie and television celebrities. The Red Carpets of annual award shows are media frenzies complete with reviews that include the best and worst dressed right down the to the shoes and accessories.

American Sports . There are millions of sports fans across the U.S. American football has the highest number of fans but baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, tennis, golf, wrestling/boxing, and auto racing have their share of fanatics. Sports played at the college/university level are also popular; again, football being number one. 

Holidays in the U.S. Americans aren’t known for taking extended holidays. Generally, they take a week-long summer vacation and perhaps make a long weekend or week (especially in the case of Thanksgiving and Christmas) of a national holiday. Some Federal holidays aren’t recognized by businesses as they are for schools, the U.S. Postal Service, and government organizations. In addition to Easter (celebrated on a Sunday between late March and late April) and other holidays that may or may not be celebrated, there are several Federal holidays:

• New Year’s Day - January 1
• Martin Luther King Day: 3rd Monday in January
• President’s Day: 3rd Monday in February
• Memorial Day: last Monday in May
• Independence Day: July 4
• Labor Day: First Monday in September
• Columbus Day: second Monday in October
• Veteran’s Day: November 11
• Thanksgiving Day: 4th Thursday in November
• Christmas Day: December 25

Weather in the United States

Pinpointing a prime time to visit the United States based on weather is difficult. It’s a large country with varied terrain, coastlines and an expanse that crosses multiple latitudes.

Florida, in the south eastern U.S., is closer to the equator thus almost tropical and the Hawaiian Islands, 2,000 miles off the coast of California and even closer to the equator, are tropical .

Northernmost destinations like Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, the upper part of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine see long, often frigid, snowy winters and moderately warm summers . In the northwestern U.S. you’ll find arctic conditions in the extreme north of Alaska and in Washington and Oregon, conditions are mild and quite rainy.

Mt. Rainier, on the Western slope of the Cascade Range in Washington, is the snowiest place in the U.S. receiving on average about 53 feet of snow per year. 

Between the months of June and November, hurricanes can hit the coastal states on the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic (mostly southern Atlantic states). During the month of February and between April and June tornadoes can develop in a north/south swath between South Dakota and northern Texas called “Tornado Alley” and in “Dixie Alley,” an area between Oklahoma and Ohio. 

There are four desert areas in the contiguous United States . These deserts extend from the southeastern tip of California and most of Nevada into western Utah, southern Arizona, southern New Mexico and the westernmost part of Texas.

They are the Mojave, home to Death Valley; the Sonoran, Chihuahuan and Great Basin Deserts. While winters can be cool, destinations like Palm Springs, California; Las Vegas, Nevada; Phoenix, Tucson, Scottsdale and Sedona, Arizona are desert cities that can be scorching hot during the summer . 

Other notable weather patterns include high altitude Yellowstone National Park where even in July, temperatures only reach the mid-70s. Lows can hover around -20 degrees fahrenheit. In Chicago, Illinois, cold air can blast down from Canada’s arctic region dropping winter temperatures to around -18 degrees while in the summer, expect humidity with temperatures that can climb above 90 degrees.

It’s a warm, temperate climate in the central part of the eastern U.S. in places like Dallas, Texas; Memphis, Tennessee; New Orleans, Louisiana and Atlanta, Georgia. Winters are mild but plan for a hot, muggy visit if traveling during the summer.

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Travel by Beth

Beth Booked It!

Group Travel

If making travel plans for one person isn’t complicated enough, planning for a group trip can feel downright impossible. Whether you are planning a family reunion, arranging an incentive trip for employees, or you’re just ready for a fun friends’ getaway, Travel by Beth can make the planning process easy for you. We will create a custom itinerary or vacation package for your private group and get you on your way to good times.

We can recommend established group tours and packages for your group to join, and Travel by Beth also custom designs our very own group tours alongside our radio station partners, and guided by Travel by Beth agents:

Bounce to the Beach 2024 – SOLD OUT !!

Steph & Beth Take Alaska –  July 2024 – SOLD OUT !!

CU in the Alps October 2024 – ON SALE NOW !! 

WIXY CU in Paradise: The Emerald Isle – November 2024 ON SALE NOW !!

Affiliations & Certifications

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Traveling with kids can sometimes make you insecure about your ability to manage grand-scale trips, whether you are a fearless adventurer who once backpacked across Europe during your college years or your travels are relegated to a few transcontinental business trips a year. Even the best of us can be intimidated by the logistics of bringing young kids and/or unimpressed teens on what is meant to be an adventure of a lifetime.

Just how does one manage to find all modes of transport between multiple destinations; the right attractions and activities to appease every family member, regardless of age; and hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly -- on top of all the other pieces we need to put into place?

Enter tour groups. Before you grumble that these are meant for an older set and are guaranteed to include more bus rides than activity time, we're here to inform you that family tour operators have really gotten it right with a great array of travel options, services and family fun.

To date, a Danube River cruise with Adventures by Disney is one of my family's favorite trips. The kids adored the Adventure Guides, who felt like part of the family before the cruise ended, and they met other children their age to play with during the nonactive periods along the river. Outings were included and set up by age groups. We had choices of what we wanted to do, and with multigenerational trips including kids as young as 6 up to grandparents, this 10-day adventure through various countries was enjoyable and, actually, a piece of cake. Disney did all of the heavy lifting!

Can I Use Miles to Pay for a Group Tour?

While tour companies aren't as connected to the miles world as hotel chains and airlines, there are ways to both earn and use miles to pay for a group tour. To apply points to a group tour, you'll want to dip into fixed-value miles from programs that allow you to "erase" a travel purchase from your credit card statement: Think Capital One miles that you earn with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, or Barclaycard Arrival miles that you earn with the Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite Mastercard.

In the case of Capital One, you can "wipe out" any travel-coded purchase that's hit your statement in the past 90 days. Redeem your miles at a fixed rate: 1 mile equals 1 penny. You can redeem for a partial credit but need to redeem at least 2,500 miles.

Barclaycard Arrival miles work in a similar fashion with 1 mile equaling 1 penny in redemption. You can erase any travel-coded purchase you've made in the last 120 days. The downside in this case is that you need to have all of the miles in your account to erase the entire charge; Barclaycard doesn't offer partial redemptions. But you will get 5% of your redeemed miles refunded, so that's a nice bonus after the fact.

If you don't have fixed-value miles to help reduce the cost of your group tour, make sure to use a credit card that rewards for travel purchases when you book. The Chase Sapphire Reserve, for example, offers 3x the points for every dollar you spend on travel (excluding $300 travel credit). Considering tours can be a bit pricey (you are paying for convenience, after all), you could easily earn enough points for a cheaper future getaway.

Family-Friendly Group Tour Companies

Looking for tour operators that cater to families? Here's a look at the companies TPG has its eye on. All tour prices are per person without airfare.

Thomson Family Adventures

Since 1998, the Thomson family has offered small-group tours geared toward families like them who want to travel deeper by connecting to a country and its culture. Tours include a "Rafiki," or a friend, who will break the ice with the group and help keep things entertaining for the kids, while local expert guides show you around at a pace comfortable for everyone.

Thomson creates family itineraries that will take your brood back to ancient civilizations for tours that are not only family-friendly and fun but also educational. (Shh, the kids won't know they are learning on this vacation!) Trips are organized by activity level, so parents can select those best-suited to their children's needs. Multigenerational trips scheduled for 2019 can whisk your family off to exotic destinations like China, Egypt and Tanzania, as well as swings through the Caribbean and Europe.

Not only does your child get to explore faraway lands but he or she will also get to cultivate new friendships. Through the company's Friends Across Borders program, kids are paired with a child of similar age in the country you will be visiting so they can write to each other before and after the trip, and meet up at some point during your tour to potentially kick off a lifetime of friendship. We don't know of any other tour group that provides this.

Best Ages: 6 and up

Sample Starting Price: Thomson's popular seven-day Costa Rica Multi-Sport Adventure starts at $3,130 per person as of press time. On this trek, your clan will visit a sea turtle conservancy, learn to make chocolate and leave no stone unturned in Tortuguero National Park.

REI Adventures

The outdoor-lovers' go-to shop began uniting its customers with adventure tours more than 30 years ago, with many accommodations of the canvas tent or ecolodge variety. REI Adventures features 150 different trips across every continent (although the family junkets won't get you to Antarctica).

Family forays can be all-out exotic with rambles to Thailand and Machu Picchu , or within the national parks of the US, such as the Great Smoky Mountains or Zion and Bryce Canyon national park tours that will have the entire family enjoying the great outdoors. (Here are some tips for visiting national parks with kids.) You'll find three- and seven-day weekend getaway options, as well as seven- to 15-day adventures. REI has been committed to the environment since its founding in 1938. Every trek organized by the company practices green initiatives: using recyclable and reusable materials, minimizing environmental impact and following high ethical standards. The company also works in conjunction with host countries by offering meaningful cultural exchanges and patronizing local businesses.

Best Ages: Due to the tours' physical activities, REI Adventures is best-suited for active teens who can keep up with the hiking, kayaking, river rafting and biking that are often at the forefront of the tours.

Sample Starting Price: A three-day hiking weekend is $1,599 per person (with REI member discounts bringing the price down to $1,449), while a 10-day Thailand trip starts at $3,309 ($2,999 for members).

Points Perks: REI loyalty begins with $20 for a lifetime membership. As a member, you'll get discounted tours, as well as discounted classes, events, services and merchandise at REI locations around the world. Sign up for the REI Co-op World Mastercard and you'll get an additional 5% back on purchases at REI, as well as 1% back on everyday purchases with no annual fee. Plus, every purchase means a donation to the National Forest Foundation.

Intrepid Travel

By pairing three to five families with like-minded individuals, especially matching children of similar interests and ages, Intrepid Travel works to create lasting friendships along with its tours. Keeping the groups to no more than 10 people means more focus on you, and kids 17 and younger receive 10% off trip prices.

Family voyages are uber-exotic with Intrepid. You can explore the desert landscape of Morocco, the African valleys of Kenya and the opulent palaces of India. Any one of the action-packed journeys will combine activities that coincide with your child's school curriculum or hobbies.

Intrepid doesn't just show you the world, it gives back as well. Through the nonprofit Intrepid Foundation, funds have been distributed to support local and grassroots projects, including sustainable development, environmental conservation and wildlife protection.

Best Ages: Age minimums vary but start at 5 and up, depending on the location. Most children on these trips fall between 8 and 18 years of age.

Sample Starting Price: Imagine Morocco with the kiddos for eight days starting as low as $675 per person, not including airfare. Cross wind-swept dunes, ride a camel in the desert and get lost in the alleyways of bustling markets. (Single parents will love Intrepid, as well, because of its solo parent options with other solo moms and dads.)

Points Perks: Intrepid has its own loyalty program: After nine trips, you'll earn $1,800 toward a 10th tour when you become an Intrepid Legend.

Adventures By Disney

If you think creating "The Happiest Place on Earth" is all Disney can do, you haven't tried Adventures by Disney, the high-end, "we take care of everything" family travel company. You'll pay a pretty penny to join these tours, offered since 2005, but your entire family is guaranteed to have a blast with tours that include Disney-trained local guides who stay with you for the entire journey.

Immersing your family into the cultures you visit, ABD (as it is known by its fans) offers more than 30 adventures across six continents. Go deep into China with a visit to the Forbidden City, Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong, or traverse across Australia, from the Great Barrier Reef to Ayers Rock to the Gold Coast to Sydney. (Here are the best ways to use points and miles to fly from the US to Australia .) Disney goes big when it creates its cruising adventures and has partnered with AMAWaterways for ABD cruises throughout Europe. Trips range from three-day weekends to two-week adventures.

With backstage, one-of-a-kind tours, you'll skip lines and do things you wouldn't do on other tours like visit the Good Morning America studios in New York City or take an after-hours tour of the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel in Rome. From the moment you step off the plane, you'll have Adventure Guides with you so you feel like a VIP from start to finish.

Best Ages: Minimum ages start at 4 or 6 years of age, depending on the destination.

Sample Starting Price: Disney's tours are so great that its pricing falls under the "if you have to ask" category. They are expensive. A 12-day/11-night tour of China starts at $8,949 per person while a four-day/three-night tour of New York City starts at $2,929 per person.

Points Perks: The Chase Disney Visa returns 1–2% back in the form of Disney dollars, which can be used on Adventures by Disney tours. Or, put your ABD vacay on your Disney card, and use your rewards for a future Disney outing.

Lindblad Expeditions

Launched in Sweden by the explorer Lars-Eric Lindblad, the Lindblad family combines a National Geographic partnership with highly engaging expeditions that kids not only learn from but also will enjoy. With this program, certified field educators serve as tour directors and guides, helping your children connect with nature

Family and multigenerational expeditions make it easy for ages 8 to 80 to enjoy explorative travel together, all aboard adventurous small ship cruises that allow you to get up close to the wildlife of the Galapagos, Alaska, the Amazon River basin and even Antarctica. Kids under 18 get $500 off, and specials often include free airfare for everyone and bar tabs for parents. (Yes, it's a family affair, but it doesn't deprive parents on the journey.)

Best Ages: All trips designated Family Travel do not have any age minimums, although these explorations often require children to be old enough to handle active adventures.

Sample Starting Price: Spend 10 days touring the Galapagos starting at $7,290. 2019 is the 50th year Lindblad has been conducting expedition cruises to the land of Darwin, where kids will encounter giant tortoises and sea lions.

Tauck Bridges

Tauck has provided tours around the world for more than 90 years, but it is the Bridges arm of the company that was developed specifically for families, with tour directors who love kids and aim to please.

Tauck Bridges offers 20 different family experiences to choose from in 2019 and 2020. You'll find river cruises down the Danube, rafts through the Grand Canyon, wildlife safaris in Tanzania or horseback riding in America's cowboy country, and everything in between, including trips to Europe's most charming cities.

Tauck's commitment to the environment extends to its partnerships with esteemed National Geographic filmmaker Ken Burns on its Ken Burns American Journeys, while Earth Journeys is a partnership with BBC Earth.

Best Ages: Children must be a minimum of 4 years old for river cruises, 5 years old for safaris and 6 years old for its Galapagos cruise.

Sample Starting Price: Cross the border to the Canadian Rockies for a seven-day tour through Western Canada's famed national parks, Banff and Jasper. Your family will ride the river rapids, climb glaciers and hike in the beautiful hills starting at $3,640 per person.

Bottom Line

Let someone else do all of the planning and work so you can truly enjoy a vacation by taking a group tour that was specifically designed for families. The best way to lessen the cost of a big trip like this is by using your miles to get your family to the tour's embarkation point, and then focus on fixed-value points that can help "erase" all or part of the tour cost.

Have you booked a group tour for your family? Which company did you use and would you do it again?

Here are some more trip-planning resources:

• The Best Credit Cards for Family Travelers
• The Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Families in 2019
• How to Get a Family of 4 or More Into an Amex Centurion Lounge
• Tips for Using Frequent Flyer Miles for Family Travel

10 tips to make traveling with a large group hassle-free

Posted: June 2, 2023 | Last updated: August 3, 2023

10 tips for traveling with a large group

Traveling with a large group can be wonderful. Bigger numbers mean more people to do things with, more memories to be made, and more folks to split expenses between. But without careful planning, group trips can also be miserable. There's nothing worse than misaligned expectations, budgets, and disagreements about the adventure ahead.

Bounce has assembled a list of first-rate tips for big-group travel in order to ensure the best group trip possible. Whether you're planning a long-awaited family reunion, a coworker offsite, or an adventure with friends, these tips are sure to make your trip go off without a hitch.

Of course, before you take off, or get too far into your planning, be sure to check the CDC for guidance on travel during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The first step to a successful getaway is making sure everyone in your squad is safe and in adherence to current regulations.

Assign a group leader

Establishing a group leader or two should be one of the first steps when group traveling. These leaders aren't in charge of making every decision about the trip, but rather they are responsible for coordinating most aspects of travel: assigning tasks—like making dinner reservations or booking off-site adventures, disseminating information throughout the group, and booking tour guides or event tickets.

This will help make sure everyone going on the trip is aware of all dates and activities, on board with the plans, and conscious of how much everything will cost. Good leaders help maintain healthy social dynamics and assure no one feels out of the loop or uncomfortable with any proposed plans.

Plan in advance

Once you've established a group leader, get everyone together for a general planning meeting. Use this time to pick dates that align with everyone's work, family, and life schedules, identify a general destination, and come up with a broad framework for your vacation itinerary.

Now is the perfect time to decide things like whether you're all after a more active trip or a more relaxed getaway, if you want to stay in an all-inclusive resort or check out home shares, etc. Don't worry about the smaller details, like where to have dinner every night or what airline to fly, just yet—there will be plenty of time for those decisions down the line.

Establish budget preferences

One specific thing your group should discuss in a planning meeting is the budget. It's likely everyone will have different ideas about how much they're able or willing to spend, and getting on the same page about finances early on is a key part of a successful group trip.

During this time, ask everyone about what they aren't willing to pay for—like alcohol or fancy dinners out—and the things they are willing to pay for—maybe private airport transfers or admission to cultural sites. Knowing where every member of your party stands on these issues can help you hammer out more detailed itineraries or even multiple itineraries for different subsets of the group. Arguably there are few instances more awkward than on-the-spot fights about splitting a dinner bill or staying behind on an excursion.

Document itineraries and preferences

Most group trips can often take weeks for everything—from flights to restaurant reservations—to get pinned down. While in the planning phases of travel, keeping everyone in the loop on itineraries and any new information will smooth out the trip overall.

Curating lists and itineraries on platforms like Google Docs or shared iPhone notes can help keep the party up to date. Dropping links for everything from the hotel to that one off-site day trip you're going to take—as well as notes about price, reservation time, etc.—ensures that everyone knows exactly what's being planned and can raise questions and concerns beforehand. And of course, group chats on platforms like WhatsApp can facilitate discussions.

Check for group discounts

Many airlines, hotels, ground transportation companies, and tours offer group discounts to larger parties. As you're booking the various pieces of your trip, be sure to inquire about the possibility of a deal. Worst-case scenario, the company will tell you no, and best-case scenario, you'll be able to save a few of your hard-earned coins. This tip is particularly important for groups looking to travel on a budget or groups dealing with a huge budget disparity among their members.

Create a routine

Before you go on the trip, consider establishing a routine for the members of the group. We're not talking about a hard and fast schedule broken down into 15-minute increments, but rather a general plan of how you want the days to go.

How long do you want to spend at each event? An hour at breakfast for example, or two hours at the pool each morning. Most importantly, what time should the group be awake by each day? Keeping the broad strokes of each day the same will help everyone feel calmer and in more control over their time away.

Consider homestays or group lodging

While hotels and all-inclusive resorts tend to be the first type of accommodations thought of when planning vacations, consider a homestay or group lodging instead. Unless you're after a very specific experience or destination, staying in a rented house or group of houses might be a better option. These properties are often more affordable and spacious.

Additionally, they offer more opportunities for cooking meals together or spending downtime as a group. After all, if you've chosen these specific people to go away with, you likely want to be with them as much as possible.

Avoid too many activities in one day

While spending time together is likely your top concern on a group trip, be conscious of how you plan to spend said time. Scheduling too many activities in a single day can leave people feeling tired and stressed, which can cause them to act irritable and anxious. And likely the last thing you want is to be stuck far from home with a group of cranky folks.

Limiting the number of activities you do in a day allows everyone to slow down and enjoy the moment rather than mentally rushing ahead to the next thing. Being less ambitious with planning also helps conserve energy for building happy memories rather than expending it all too early and burning out.

Play to each person's social strengths

In any group of friends, coworkers, and family members, there are likely a variety of social and mental strengths. There might be one person who is exceptional with directions, another who's good at math and can always calculate the tip accurately, and a third whose outgoing nature makes it easy to ask strangers questions.

Whatever the strengths in your travel group, allow them to shine while you're away together. Giving everyone different jobs keeps any one person feeling overburdened and discourages anyone from turning into a control freak.

Plan some time for solo exploration

Make sure you leave some time for solo exploration. Even if your group is in agreement about almost every aspect of the trip, there will always be at least one activity not everyone wants to do—and that's natural.

Scheduling time where everyone can head off and do their own thing increases the likelihood of each member of your group leaving the trip feeling happy, fulfilled, and satisfied. And as a bonus, you'll have a wealth of interesting stuff to talk about when you all reunite at the end of the day.

This story originally appeared on Bounce and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.

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Best travel groups to join

Interest in travel groups is booming , especially among the new generations; They are a great option for people to make new friends, discover fascinating places, have their travel planning taken care of and go on a trip even if they don’t have anyone to travel with.

While we love solo travel, group tours offer many advantages such as:

• Sharing costs and avoiding the single supplement
• Have a host/guide that takes care of everything during the trip
• The convenience of having everything planned out for you
• Help keeping safe
• The opportunity to visit destinations that may be hard, expensive or challenging solo
• Make new friends who share a love for travel

There are thousands of groups for travel out there, and sometimes loads of options can be overwhelming and confusing. This is why we’ve narrowed it down to this list of the best. 

Besides regular travel groups, we’ve also included niche and specific options that specialize in a certain travel style, age range or community. This is the only travel group list you need.

• 1 Women-only travel groups
• 2 Mixed gender travel groups 
• 3 Adventure travel groups
• 4 Mature & senior travel groups
• 5 Educational travel groups
• 6 Boutique/niche travel groups
• 7 Black travel groups
• 8 LGBT+ travel groups
• 9 Groups to find travel buddies
• 10 Facebook travel groups

Women-only travel groups

Travel groups for women who want to travel solo, but in a group. Small group trips are a safe, affordable and convenient way to visit challenging destinations or to test solo travel in a predefined way.

Traveling with a group of like-minded women means a group of new travel friends and the beginning of genuine connections and long lasting friendships. 

Here are our recommendations for the best women travel groups out there.

Solo Female Travelers 

Join us in bucket list destinations and unusual places for life changing connections with local women, great food & wine, fabulous company, culture, nature, wildlife and so much more! 

Our trips are designed by women, for women and are led by women. We offer a range of luxury, personally curated experiences that have all the ingredients of a well-deserved vacation and adventure expeditions to unheard of places.

What sets us apart from all other group travel companies is that our tours are focused on women; we provide employment opportunities to women in the destinations we visit, we engage them in conversations about women’s rights and learn more about a country through the eyes of their women. We believe that the best path to peace and understanding is through building bridges between cultures and do that on all our trips.

For that extra something, many of our female travel tours are accompanied by our photographer to capture unforgettable moments and candid instants that will stay with you.

Come solo and we’ll pair you with another traveler or book with a friend, and get ready to have an unforgettable experience. These are the places we take you to – click on the image to see the detailed itinerary.

Mixed gender travel groups 

If you’re longing for a group vacation but less concerned about connecting with local women, in this section we will suggest group travel companies that offer a wide range of options for all ages and genders. 

These travel groups accept female and male guests, with a mix of solo travelers, couples and families, so they’re great for meeting people . These tour companies guarantee an exciting and fun holiday abroad. Take a look!

Contiki is a tour company that focuses on social travel, that is, people traveling together to make memories. 

They offer group trips all around the world, great for people from 18-35 years old. Almost 60% of their travelers are solo, so it’s perfect for meeting people, making friends and creating meaningful connections abroad if you are in your younger years.

All the tours are culturally immersive led by expert guides, and center on exploring new places without hassle. They have everything from short trips, festivals, hiking, ski & snowboarding, to island hopping and safari tours. 

Most of their tours have a lot of in-built free time and some meals so make sure you look at the inclusions carefully to estimate extra expenditure.

Their most popular trips are: Egypt & the Nile, Ireland and East Africa Safari. 

• Who’s Contiki for: 18-35 years old travelers who want all the planning sorted out
• Destinations: More than 350 trips across 6 continents
• Duration: short trips of a few days up to 4+ week trips 
• Group size: they have trips with 15 people or less, trips with 16-30 people and trips with 30+ people 
• Single supplement: They pair you up with a roomie. If you want a private room for yourself, they can arrange it for a small supplement

Exodus Travels offers unique tour experiences such as cycling in Croatia or hiking in Morocco, that guarantee you’ll have the best time and share memorable moments with like-minded people in whatever activity level you choose: leisurely, moderate or challenging. 

Compare the tours and find the one that matches your interests. Have a detox of the ordinary and make the most of your singles vacation going to a bucket list trip like Pyramids and Pharaohs in Egypt, Cabernet and Capers in South Africa or Street food and Sunshine in Sicily. 

• Who’s Exodus for: adventurous people who like unique experiences 
• Destinations: More than 100 countries across 6 continents
• Duration: from 3-23 days
• Group size: 8-16 people
• Single supplement: Their tours have no single supplements as they will put you in a shared room with a fellow traveler of the same gender. Occasionally, you may end up with your own room

A UK adventure travel company, Explore creates unforgettable experiences for small groups and were recommended by members of our community. 

They have a wide variety of tours including the classic ‘Discovery’ tours, walking holidays, cycling trips or solo holidays. They also have unique special tours like Polar trips. Some of their bestsellers are: Costa Rica wildlife tour, Cycle Turkey trip and Maldive cruise. 

• Who’s Explore for: travelers looking for adventure and fun
• Duration: from 4-19 days
• Group size: average is 12 people
• Single supplement: As a single traveler you won’t have to pay any extra charges for traveling alone. A twin room is included in their trip price and they will pair you with another individual of the same sex. You can opt to pay a single room supplement, available on most of their tours

Solos Holidays

With more than 40 years of experience, Solos Holidays is a tour company that hosts especially crafted holidays designed for single and solo travelers. 

They focus on creating sociable experiences where one can travel independently, but with the convenience of traveling in a group and having a tour leader. 

In order to appeal to a wider range of travelers, they have many holiday types with specific activities that match almost any interest. There are solo travel groups for the active which include activities such as hiking, cycling, water sports, yoga, golf, whale watching. They also have ClubSolos which is an exclusive tour in luxurious accommodation.

• Who’s Solos Holidays for: independent travelers seeking the support of traveling in a group
• Destinations: more than 45 countries in all of the 7 continents
• Duration: from 7-14 days
• Group size: average size is 15, but can be up to 20 or 30 people, depending on holiday type
• Single supplement: there are no single supplements on all of their holidays

Adventure travel groups

Feeling bold and brave? Join one of these adventure travel groups. 

The companies in this section specialize in outdoor intrepid holidays and will make sure you have the time of your life while making new friends and staying safe.

You don’t have to be super fit or have the best physical condition to join one of these tours. There are tours with different activity levels, look for the one that suits you best.

Mt Sobek 

It all started in 1969 with their first Everest Base Camp trek. MT Sobek creates small group adventure travel vacations with unique itineraries. They have a wide range of trips with more than 150 in different categories such as trekking, hiking, safaris, rafting, kayaking, cruising and cultural voyages. 

They were recognized as a preferred travel outfitter by Smithsonian Journey and the New York Times Journeys. 

• Who’s MT Sobek for: adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities
• Destinations: more than 60 countries
• Duration: from 4-15 days 
• Group size: fewer than 10 people per group
• Single supplement: if you’re comfortable sharing your room with a same-gender roommate, you pay no single supplement through their Single-Share Program. If you want a private room, you do pay a low single supplement

Duvine is an international adventure company that specializes in cycling tours around the world. Their bike tours offer much more than cycling; they involve the local culture, culinary experiences (including wonderful local wines!), luxurious accommodation and passionate people to connect with. 

Duvine provides top-quality bikes and all the necessary gear to explore the world by bike. Their most popular bike trips are in Tuscany, Provence and Mallorca.  

• Who’s Duvine for: travelers who like biking and cultural & culinary experiences
• Destinations: 30 countries across Europe, Latin America, US and Africa 
• Duration: from 4-8 days 
• Group size: up to 14 people
• Single supplement: their bike tours are priced based on double occupancy. If you ask the tour coordinator, they can pair you with another solo traveler in order to waive the single supplement

Recreational Equipment, Inc (REI) was founded in 1938 and has been one of the top outdoor companies in the world. Best known for selling outdoor gear and apparel, REI hosts exciting outdoor adventure tours throughout the US. Activities on the trips include hiking, backpacking, cycling, kayaking, mountain biking, and rafting.

In REI Adventure trips you can discover places like a local, explore at your own pace and eat delicious food. REI also makes uniquely crafted women’s adventures . Some of their best selling trips are: Yosemite Hiking and Camping, Grand Canyon Backpacking, and Alaska Cycling.

• Who’s REI for: travelers who love outdoor adventures
• Destinations: 6 national parks and 8 states across the US
• Duration: short trips are 4 days or less, the rest are from 5 to 13 days 
• Group size: 4-16 people
• Single supplement: prices are based on double occupancy. If you request single accommodation, you will be asked to pay the single supplement fee

Mature & senior travel groups

Mature adults and seniors are an important and growing segment in the travel industry and according to a US study , by 2025, seniors will be traveling more than ever before and should account for 13 percent of all international travel. 

If that’s you, you are in luck because more and more travel companies are ready to cater to your needs. Here are some good senior travel groups options.

Expat Explore

Founded in 2005 by two South African travelers, Expat Explore specializes in coach tours mainly in Europe and the UK, but also offers travel experiences in USA and Canada, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America. Expat Explore was recommended by many members of our community. 

They’re known for covering the highlights as well as the hidden gems of a destination, in a very convenient and affordable way. Their coach tours are most aimed at adults and seniors and there’s a wide variety of options: from those trips that cover many countries in a few days, to those which explore the region more in-depth. The tour prices include accommodation, transport, and many meals. 

Their most popular trips are Greece, Turkey & Croatia, Egypt and Eastern Europe. 

• Who’s Expat Explore for: adults looking to travel affordably and comfortably in a group
• Destinations: more than 50 tour packages across Europe, UK, USA, Canada, Africa, Asia, Middle East and South America
• Duration: from 5-26 days
• Group size: 40-50 people
• Single supplement: they pair-up solo travelers of the same gender in twin-share rooms, and if you prefer to have your own room, they have that option available at an affordable  extra cost

Rick Steves 

American Rick Steves is an expert in European travel and has a best-seller guidebook series, a TV show, a radio show and a travel column. 

His company gives tours throughout Europe and focuses on fun, affordable and culturally broadening trips. Some tours have a large group size, while others limit to small groups. His travel groups were recommended by members of our Facebook group.  

Some of their top sellers tours are Heart of Italy, Best of the Adriatic and Best of Scotland. 

• Who’s Rick Steves for: people looking to immerse culturally in a European country
• Destinations: more than 20 countries in Europe
• Duration: from 7-21 days
• Group size: 24-28 people
• Single supplement: they offer solo travelers the option  to  either  share a room with another  solo  tour member of the same sex  or  pay a single supplement to secure a private room

Overseas Adventure Travel

Established in 1978, Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T) is the first US travel company to offer adventure trips to travelers aged 50 and over. Their tours specialize in providing travelers an active experience in exotic places, without losing the comfort and service components. They offer adventures by land and by small ships. 

O.A.T travel groups are ideal for adult & senior solo travelers, according to their stats : 46% of all O.A.T. travelers join the company as solos— which has increased significantly from 44% in 2015 and 27% in 2010. Also, 85% of O.A.T.’s solo travelers are women who travel solo regardless of their marital status.

Their most popular tour destinations are Morocco, Iceland and Botswana on safari. 

• Who’s O.A.T. for: adults & seniors who want to travel off the beaten path in a small group
• Destinations: more than 70 countries across the globe
• Duration: from 5-30 days
• Group size: 8-16 people in tours by land and 20-25 people aboard ship tours
• Single supplement: 92% of their single spaces are free on all 2022 adventures. The remaining 8% have low single supplements. They also offer free single supplements on every trip extension and stopover

Insight Vacations

Travel in style with Insight Vacations , a tour company that creates premium small group trips in outstanding destinations. Their trips are fancier than most tour companies and offer stylish accommodation, fine dining, and unique experiences. 

Insight Vacations have out of the box experiences in many of their tours like Twirling on the dance floor in Vienna, savoring Egyptian sun bread in a local village and learning about Oyster farms in Croatia.

Their top destinations are Croatia, Switzerland and Italy.  

• Who’s Insight Vacations for: travelers looking for unique experiences in a premium tour
• Destinations: Europe, Britain & Ireland, Americas, Asia, North Africa
• Group size: 12-40 people
• Single supplement: many of their tours have a solo traveler supplement discount, from 15% to 100% off. Find the deals here

Educational travel groups

Who says going on a trip means laziness and not being productive? This is a huge myth about traveling , and these tour companies prove it. 

Make your next trip a worthwhile vacation by learning deeply about the culture and history of a destination, or learning a new skill like cooking or painting. Take a look at these companies that create memorable educational holidays.

Road scholar 

Road Scholar states that they are “a diverse community of knowledge seekers and explorers, united in the belief that lifelong learning is a vital part of overall wellbeing”. 

They specialize in learning trips for people of 40+ years old and, according to their PR Director, Kelsey Knoedler, almost 30% of their travelers in 2021 came solo and 80% of them were women. 

They have a massive variety of destinations, travel styles and trip lengths. Immerse yourself in the Latin American ambience going on their South American Odyssey (Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Peru), discover Morocco in their Melting Pot of Cultures, or dive into the Cultural Highlights of Japan. 

This is a very unique way to have a single holiday, focused on learning about the destinations, connecting with new people, and making the best of your vacation. 

• Who’s Road Scholar for: intellectually curious travelers
• Destinations: more than 100 countries across the Americas, Europe, Australia, Asia, Africa and Antarctica
• Duration: short trips from 2-6 days and longer tours from 6-29 days
• Group size: 10-24 people
• Single supplement: they offer a roommate option to avoid paying a full single supplement

Flavours Holidays

Created in 1998, Flavours Holidays gives unique learning tours for solo travelers: quality cooking, painting, pilates, language and photography holidays. 

All the trip destinations are picturesque sites in Italy, Spain and the UK, where guests can learn from passionate chefs and experienced tutors. All their tours are custom-made for solo travelers, with over 70% of their guests coming without a travel partner. 

Our top pick is the cooking holiday in Italy, they have options in many Italian sites: Tuscany, Puglia, Amalfi, Venice, Bologna and Sicily. 

Other great options for your singles holiday can be a painting tour in Andalusia, Spain or in the Scottish Highlands. These holidays are perfect for singles over 40 who want to learn something new while discovering places and cultures.  

• Who’s Flavours Holidays for: people who want to learn a new skill while traveling
• Destinations: Italy, Spain, UK
• Duration: 4-8 days 
• Group size: 8-10 people
• Single supplement: they don’t charge single supplements, so you can have a comfy room for yourself

EF (Educational First) is a well known company that focuses on student travel. Their trips promise to widen student’s perspectives through experiential learning. Expert educators and teachers lead each tour, and EF works hard to ensure safe travel for all students. 

EF has a wide variety of tour types and destinations, which give students the opportunity to immerse themselves culturally and have life-changing experiences. Discover the Galapagos Islands or taste traditional Italian cuisine, or choose another adventure from their exciting itineraries.

• Who’s EF for: students or solo travelers looking for a cultural travel experience
• Destinations: 40+ countries across Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia
• Duration: 7-32 days 
• Group size: 14-38 people
• Single supplement: If you wish to have a single room, a single room supplement will be charged

Boutique/niche travel groups

Whether you want to see a destination through a professional photographer’s eyes or have an active fitness holiday, these niche travel groups craft exciting tours. Check them out! 

Under30Experiences

Founded in 2012 in the US, Under30Experiences makes travel accessible for young people with a focus on Millennial travel on a budget.

U30X’s adventures are small groups aimed at people from 21-35 years. These travel groups are very focused on solo travelers (more than 70% come solo), so they make it easy for you to make new friends from the start. They also provide optional experiences if you wish to try new things, or you can always opt out and explore at your own pace.

Whether you want to explore Petra in Jordan, kayak in Greece, or hike in New Zealand, Under 30 Experiences has a wide variety of trips to choose from.

• Who’s U30X for: young vibrant travelers from 21-35
• Destinations: 20+ trips across 6 continents
• Duration: 4-11 days 
• Group size: up to 16 travelers
• Single supplement: they don’t charge single supplements, as they pair you up with a roommate

Fit & Fly retreats

Founded by attorney and travel writer Rebecca, Fit & Fly offers fitness, wellness and cultural retreats in beautiful locations. They empower women to take special care of themselves and make meaningful connections with other women. 

If you want to workout and get a vacation at the same time, this is the travel company for you. The retreats include stylish accommodation, fitness classes, delicious eats, wellness activities, spa experiences, cultural excursions and more. You don’t have to be super fit or be great at workouts to join, Fit & Fly has a supportive environment and instructors that tailor workouts to be challenging but doable, depending on the person’s capabilities.

Their top retreat destinations are Bali, Dubai and Maldives, with a few more exotic places to choose from. 

• Who’s Fit & Fly for: women who want to take care of themselves in a wellness retreat
• Destinations: Palm Springs, French Riviera, Ibiza, Iceland, Tuscany, Dubai & Abu Dhabi, Maldives, Bali
• Duration: 5-7 days 
• Group size: 12-20 women
• Single supplement: a single supplement is charged if you want a private single room

Black travel groups

These travel groups offer fabulous experiences specially designed for the Black community. Make new friends, have a blast and explore destinations surrounded by an amazing group of people.

Wind Collective

Wind Collective is a global travel company that combines adventure and creativity. They host monthly group travel experiences for those travelers who are curious and brave enough to explore the world creatively. 

All of their tours are immersive experiences in fascinating destinations, curated by the creative team in partnership with local businesses and with a healthy dose of music and creative endeavors including dynamic photoshoots and Give back sessions. 

• Who’s Wind Collective for: curious travelers who love to try new things from local culture
• Destinations: Cuba, Colombia, Morocco, Los Angeles, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Bulgaria, Brazil, South Africa, Jordan, Dubai, South Korea, Bali
• Duration: 4-9 days 
• Group size: 8-12 people 
• Single supplement: no single supplement for solo travelers as they will be paired with another solo traveler in double accommodation. There’s an additional charge only if they request a private single room

LGBT+ travel groups

Have a trip of a lifetime in a tour specially curated for and by LGBT+ community members. These companies host incredible trips and make sure you feel safe and welcome as a LGBT+ traveler.

Out Adventures

Founded in 2009, Out Adventures creates small group experiences for the gay community around the world. They have an expert team that takes care of everything including how to navigate local customs and attitudes towards the LGBT community. 

Their carefully made itineraries include local restaurants, authentic experiences, boutique hotels and friendly partners, who make members of the LBGT community feel truly welcomed. 

Out Adventure’s small group tours offer a balance between time to explore the destination’s highlights and time for guests to enjoy on their own.

• Who’s Out Adventures for: Gay community travelers looking for unique experiences
• Destinations: 40+ countries across 6 continents 
• Duration: 4-12 days 
• Group size: up to 16 people, cruises up to 40 people
• Single supplement: they pair you with another solo traveler in double-bed rooms. If you want your own room, you have to pay a single supplement

Outstanding Travel

Outstanding Travel is an Israel-based group travel company that hosts Mediterranean LGBTQ+ adventures especially for gay travelers. Their tours immerse in rich history and culture, culinary experiences, and the LGBTQ+ scene. 

All their travel groups have a tailor made approach and promise an unforgettable cultural experience involving beaches, fabulous people and vibrant nightlife.

Their top tour destinations are Jordan and Israel. They also offer Pride Events special tour packages. They also offer a feature that lets you design your custom trip , choosing the dates, destinations, how many people are joining, activities you wish to do, accommodation type, and more. 

• Who’s Outstanding Travel for: LBGTQ+ travelers seeking a cultural vacation with lots of fun
• Destinations: Jordan, Israel, Greece, Egypt
• Duration: 7-10 days 
• Group size: 10 – 40 people
• Single supplement: there’s a single supplement if you want a private single room

Groups to find travel buddies

We love traveling solo, but sometimes it’s nice to share some parts of the journey with other travelers or even with locals. There’s something special about making connections far away from home, and the possibility to transform them into long lasting friendships that makes finding a travel buddy all the more appealing. Here are travel groups designed just for that.

SFT Connections

Since there are always so many people interested in connecting with other travelers, we created a subgroup of our main group called Solo Female Travelers Connection , set up just for women who want to find travel buddies, a host, other travelers or locals to meet up or hang out with, even someone to pet sit their house or to swap homes with. 

Join the group , post your travel details, house/pet sitting offer or request and connect with others who match up. This is a great way to meet new people and make friends abroad.

Meetup is a great site for meeting people. This isn’t only for global travel, but is also a great way to meet people locally who share your interests.

You join a meetup in the area you’re situated, which is basically an event or activity, and meet people for anything, from sunrise yoga to kayaking. 

Travel-related Meetup groups are a great way to find a travel buddy as you can connect with people who have shared interests and friendships may form. And remember meetups are for anyone, both locals and international travelers, so you never know who you’re going to meet.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a free version of Airbnb, or shall we say Airbnb is a paid version of Couchsurfing since they were first!

You get to immerse yourself in the culture as you stay with a local for a short period of time for free sleeping on their couch, bed or a mattress. 

Like Workaway, Couchsurfing offers a meetup feature where you can either meet with another traveler one-on-one or you can create a group meetup for similarly-minded people who like to do the same activities as you, from hiking to wine tasting. 

Join my trip

Join My Trip is sort of like a local guided experience where you can tag along with other travelers on a local journey around a specific part of the world.

The trips vary in price as some are with professional guides while others are just for tagging along with other solo travelers who want to share transportation fare (what they call a “seat filler”). The trip leader can charge a small fee to organize the entire trip.

They also have a “Global Greeter Network” where you pay the annual membership and then can request someone to pick you up at a designated spot. You can then go on for a guided tour, a walk around the city, or just be dropped off somewhere.

In this way, you get to find out more about the area from a local without worrying about having to find a taxi. Other categories include “Travel buddies”, “Group Travel”, and “Female Travel”. 

Host a Sister

Created by Host A Sister, a company that promotes cultural exchange through women sharing their homes and friendships with other female travelers for free. This is a great community where you can find travel buddies or meet up with a new friend. 

You can even seek for a host to stay with or offer your own home as free accommodation for other women. The group is properly moderated and all of the posts follow a certain format to make every request clear and straight to the point.    

Facebook travel groups

Looking to connect with like minded travelers? Facebook is a great place to find them, as well as handy tips and resources for your next trip. Here are a few of the best travel Facebook groups out there, find the rest here .

Solo Female Travelers

This is our group and consists of well over 272,000+ member community of brave, fearless and independent women with a shared passion for traveling solo.

Our Facebook Group is the heart of our community, where women are empowered to explore the world solo, safely and on their own terms. In this group you will find meaningful conversations, travel tips and resources to make solo travel as a woman rewarding, enriching and safe. 

If you love to travel solo, dream of doing it in the future or just want to get travel inspiration from diverse women from all around the globe, this group is for you.

We strictly enforce our values of inclusion, open-mindedness, courage, positive impact, and union and keep the group free from spam and trolls. We love to travel solo, but we also meet up for women-only tours to travel together . 

Travel Community

This group was created by Scott’s Cheap Flights , a company that delivers amazing flight deals to your inbox.

Travel Community is very well run by a group of expert moderators that contribute to keep the posts that are going to add value or answer questions from the community. The group members are very interactive and engaged, almost every post has dozens of comments. 

Also, the posts are relevant and range from many topics like travel tips, how to find great deals and discounts, personal experiences, itinerary suggestions, among many other travel related topics. The group is often updated on news from Scott Cheap Flights and how to take advantage of their website.

Digital nomads around the world

Digital Nomads Around the World is a resourceful group by Digital Nomads Nation , which is the world’s first e-nation, connecting global digital nomads with the shared passion of working remotely as a lifestyle and traveling the world. 

You can go to their website and navigate the company’s resource platform, where you’ll be able to do research on career opportunities and access their talent database and find remote job opportunities from worldwide companies. 

The Digital Nomads network offers a lot of perks and benefits like attending on and offline talks and events or doing networking with fellow professionals. They have taken the idea of a virtual digital nomad community further with a range of services and resources that are specifically targeted at those without a fixed lifestyle.

Join this Facebook group where fellow travelers share their insights around digital nomad life, whether you are an experienced digital nomad or are looking to get started, the group will give you knowledge based on the experience and advice of members.

Travel Divas

Travel Divas is an online community where black female travelers share their stories and experiences traveling as a woman of color. Admins and moderators do a great job avoiding any solicitation of promotion posts, so the feed may stay organized and resourceful for all.

Join this awesome group if you want to get inspiration and insight from the perspective of someone like you, which will help you to make the best of your next trip.

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Home » Blog » Best travel groups to join

Solo Travel Vs Group Travel: Pros and Cons

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: January 22, 2024

Categories Solo Travel

Home » Travel » Solo Travel » Solo Travel Vs Group Travel: Pros and Cons

When planning a trip, one of the more important decisions you have to make is whether you’re going to travel alone or with a group. This choice depends on a number of factors including personal preferences, where you’re traveling, your budget, and more. There is no right or wrong way to travel. This guide lists the pros and cons of solo travel vs group travel to help you decide which type of travel is best for your trip. We’ll cover costs, the social aspect, safety, freedom, difficulty, and more.

I’ve been solo traveling for the past 12 years to over 65 countries. I’ve also taken a few group tours and traveled with friends. In this guide, I’ll share my experience with solo traveling and group traveling.

I’ve also made this YouTube video to outline the pros and cons of solo travel.

Key Takeaways

– Solo travel gives you more freedom and independence. You can set your own pace and your own budget. You don’t need to find a travel partner. It’s easier to meet people while you travel alone. Solo travel is also adventurous. It builds character. – Group travel is safer. It’s also easier because you don’t need to plan everything yourself. It’s also less lonely. You’ll always have the group around. You’ll also have a tour guide to keep you on track. You can see more in less time. – Solo travel is the better choice for those who value independence, introverts, those seeking solitude, those who value flexibility and spontaneity, adventure seekers, those looking for cultural immersion, those on a tight budget, and digital nomads. – Group travel is better for social travelers, first time travelers, those with mobility issues, those who value convenience, those concerned with safety, and those who only have a limited amount of time to see everything.

Table of Contents

Solo Travel Pros

Solo travel cons.

• Group Travel Pros
• Group Travel Cons

1. Solo travel gives you complete freedom and independence

When you travel alone, you are in complete control of your trip. There is no one there telling you where to go, when to go, or what to do. You don’t have to take anyone else’s preferences into consideration when choosing a restaurant, hotel, or itinerary. You have absolute freedom and independence.

For example, maybe you fall in love with a particular city and want to extend your stay. You can do that. Maybe you spot some interesting street food that you want to try. You can go try it. Maybe you don’t like museums. Then skip the museum and go to the beach instead.

There are no compromises in solo travel. You can be spontaneous. It’s your vacation. You make your own schedule. This feeling of absolute freedom is one of the best parts of solo travel.

2. You get to spend time alone

Introverts will love this point. While solo traveling, you don’t have to talk to anyone or interact with anyone if you don’t want to. You can sightsee and eat by yourself. During your downtime or while in transit, you can think, read, listen to music, or write. This allows you to really take in your destination and unwind. As an added bonus, you really get to know yourself when you spend so much time alone.

3. You can travel at a faster or slower pace

As a solo traveler, you can see more in less time. The reason is that you don’t have to wait around for other people. For example, every time I travel with friends, I end up wasting time waiting for somebody to get ready. There is always a slow packer in the group. If one person gets sick, everyone has to wait until they get better. The more people in the group, the more slowdowns you’ll experience. This adds up to a lot of wasted time that could have been used for traveling and seeing the sites.

You can also slow travel when you’re alone. For example, maybe you really enjoy a particular city and want to spend a month getting to know it better. You can do this. For example, I spent a month exploring Mexico City alone last year. Maybe you’re just tired and you want to move more slowly. You can do this if you’re by yourself. On a group tour, you must maintain the pace of the group.

4. You can stick to your own budget

We all like to spend our money on different things. Maybe you prefer to spend money on nice meals than a fancy hotel room. Maybe you’d rather take a bus than fly to save yourself $100. You can also hunt for bargains and discounts. While solo traveling, you control exactly how you spend your money.

When you’re on a group tour, everything is already paid for upfront. You can’t adjust your spending as you go. When you’re traveling with a group of friends, you may feel peer pressure to spend more money. For example, maybe your friends want to eat at a fancy restaurant but you just want to eat street food. Of course, you don’t have to go with them but you may feel pressured to.

5. You don’t have to worry about finding a travel partner or having your travel partner flake out

If you don’t want to book a tour, finding someone to travel with is not easy. This is particularly true if you enjoy traveling to off the beaten path destinations. After all, how many of your friends really want to travel across Africa by bus ? Your travel buddy also needs to have the money to travel, similar interests, and a personality that you can get along with for weeks or months on end. Finding a suitable person to travel with can be a challenge.

If you do manage to find a travel buddy, there is a good chance that they’ll flake out on you before your trip begins. Some travelers end up not going on their trip simply because they couldn’t find someone to travel with. Solo travelers don’t have to worry about this. Of course, this point only applies if you’re traveling with friends. If you book a group tour, you don’t have to worry about this point.

6. You get to meet a wide variety of people

Every time you check into a hostel you meet a new group of interesting travelers from all over the world. Just walk into the kitchen or common area and chat some people up and chances are, you’ll have some new friends. You’ll also meet people while in transit, on day tours, and while out and about sightseeing.

As an added benefit, as a solo traveler, you’re also much easier for others to approach than a group. You may receive invitations to go sightseeing, go out to a bar, or even travel with others. Locals often approach you and strike up a conversation. While solo traveling, you’re rarely alone.

Group travelers, on the other hand, tend to stick to their group. They don’t meet as many people because they already have each other. When you’re on an organized tour, you’re pretty much stuck with the tour group.

If you’re worried about not being able to make friends during your trip, check out my guide: 19 Ways to Meet People While Traveling. 

7. Solo travel builds character, teaches you about yourself, and helps you develop as a person

Personally, I’m not a fan of the ‘travel to find yourself’ meme. Having said that, solo travel can absolutely make you a better person.

When you travel alone, there will be hardships to deal with. For example, you may have to deal with a language barrier and navigate bureaucracy. You may be discriminated against. You might even fall victim to a crime. During your trip, you will experience loneliness, depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and confusion. This is all part of the journey. These experiences build character. The way you deal with these feelings and situations can tell you a lot about yourself. You’ll also be better prepared to deal with similar situations back home.

When you solo travel, you become more independent, more adaptable, more confident, more courageous, more patient, and more accepting of others. These are all positive traits that make you a better all around person.

8. It’s easier to meet locals while solo traveling

One of the most rewarding parts of solo travel is making local friends. Chatting with locals is a great way to experience the culture and get to know the country better. For example, locals can recommend you different restaurants to try, cities to visit, and foods to try. They can show you the non-touristy sides of your destination and give you a local perspective of current events. If you’re lucky, you might even get invited into their home.

While solo traveling, you meet locals when going about your day to day life. For example, when you take public transportation, eat in a restaurant, shop in a market, or just walk down the street, you could make an interesting local friend. Because a single person is much less intimidating to approach and talk to than a group, local people are more likely to chat you up if you are alone. My favorite way to meet locals is through online dating. Couchsurfing is another great way to meet locals while traveling alone.

On a group tour, you’re kind of isolated with your tour group. The only locals you meet will be those working in the tourism industry. When you’re traveling with a group of friends, you’re less likely to be approached by locals.

9. Solo travel feels like an accomplishment

Solo travel is a personal challenge. During your trip, you’ll have to deal with adversities such as a language barrier, loneliness, getting lost, going outside of your comfort zone, dealing with new situations, etc. Something as simple as learning how to navigate a new public transportation system or ordering a meal in a foreign language feels like an accomplishment.

After crossing a continent by yourself, you’ll feel proud and accomplished. You will know what you are really capable of. You don’t get that feeling when you take a group tour because all of the difficult parts of traveling are handled for you.

10. You’re not stuck with the same people

If you grow tired of one of your new travel buddies or you don’t get along with someone at the hostel, you can just leave. Move to a different dorm, hostel, or go on to the next city. You never have to see or talk to that person again.

This isn’t an option when you’re traveling with a group tour or friends. You’re stuck with the annoying individual until the trip is over.

11. Random and unique experiences

Solo travel allows you to be spontaneous. You never know what kind of interesting opportunity will present itself. For example, while visiting the Omo Valley, I spent an afternoon with a woman from the Hamar tribe in Dimeka, Ethiopia. We spent the day walking around town, drinking, and eating. We didn’t share any language in common. In Addis Ababa, I spent a day hanging out with an Ethiopian con man. He explained his scams and introduced me to his girlfriend, who lived in the slums. I wouldn’t have had these wacky experiences if I was traveling on a tour.

Group tours are much more predictable. Every day is pre-planned. You don’t have time to stray too far from the group.

12. You can travel with others if you want

The whole trip doesn’t have to be done alone. If you meet a group of people and really hit it off, you can travel together for a while. You can even change your itinerary if necessary. If a friend wants to meet up somewhere along your journey, you can travel together for a time. It’s up to you how social you want to be. Solo travel doesn’t have to be lonely. For example, while traveling in Kenya, I met an Irish guy at the hostel. We ended up spending the next three months traveling to Cape Town together.

13. Solo travel is more adventurous

You have only yourself to rely on. If things turn south, it’s up to you to remedy the situation. Sometimes you feel like a pioneer or explorer when you’re out in the middle of nowhere all alone. It’s exciting. 

For example, when traveling across Malawi, the police detained the bus I was riding because they suspected it was carrying some kind of contraband. I ended up having to find a place to stay in the town of Mzuzu, Malawi in the middle of the night. I ended up staying in a nice hostel and spending an interesting day exploring the town before catching a bus the next night. This experience wouldn’t have happened if I was traveling on a group tour.

1. Solo travel is lonely

While solo traveling, you can be surrounded by other people and still feel lonely. This loneliness can make you depressed, homesick, isolated, and sometimes anxious. When you get feeling down, you have to be able to pick yourself back up.

Traveling by yourself gets lonely at times. There is no avoiding it. During your trip, you may spend days on end without having a conversation with another person. You will spend countless hours on busses, trains, and walking around without speaking a single word. Sometimes you’ll check into a hostel and not meet anyone. You will eat alone and sightsee alone. This is just part of the solo travel experience.

The best way to deal with this feeling of loneliness is to find someone to talk to. If you’re a naturally social person, this is easy. There are friendly people everywhere. If you’re socially anxious, striking up a conversation can be a challenge.

To meet people while traveling, you can stay in a social hostel, use social media and online dating, go to a bar or club, join a day tour or walking tour, go couchsurfing, take a class, or volunteer. You can also call your friends and family back home.

2. Solo travel is more expensive

When you travel alone, you have to cover the full cost of hotel rooms, taxi rides, food, or tours by yourself. You can’t split costs with friends or take advantage of group discounts. As a result, solo travel ends up costing more than group travel.

The price difference depends on where you’re traveling. Some destinations are more suited to solo travel than others. For example, in Central America and Southeast Asia, there are hostels, shared busses, and street food. You can solo travel cheaply. On the other end of the spectrum, much of Africa is expensive to solo travel because there are few hostels. You must spend most nights in overpriced hotels. Costs add up when you have no one to split the room with.

There are always ways to cut costs when solo traveling. You can walk, hitchhike, or take shared busses instead of taking taxis or Ubers. Camping and couchsurfing are excellent ways to reduce your accommodation cost. If you adopt a minimalist lifestyle, you can travel with shockingly little money.

3. Solo travel is more dangerous

A single person is more likely to fall victim to a crime than a group. The risk of getting mugged, drugged, assaulted, scammed, or victimized in some way is higher when you travel alone simply because you are an easier target for criminals. After all, it’s much easier to trick or overpower an individual than a group of people.

When you travel alone, you also don’t have anyone you trust to help you out if you find yourself in a dangerous situation. For example, if you get sick, injured, or arrested, you don’t have any friends to take care of you or call your emergency contact. You’re pretty much on your own.

Of course, if you take some basic safety precautions, solo travel is a perfectly safe way to travel. Read up on the travel advisories of the country you’re visiting. Avoid wandering into sketchy neighborhoods after dark. Don’t carry valuables or dress too flashy. There is no need to be paranoid about safety while solo traveling if you’re cautious.

For more info, check out my guide Is Solo Travel Safe: Avoiding Crime, Scams, and Injury While Traveling Alone.

4. You have to eat alone and cook for one

Having to eat alone is one of the most difficult parts of solo travel. Probably because eating is such a social activity. When you’re eating your meal, you’ll feel lonely and homesick at times. It’s easy to feel self-conscious sitting in a restaurant alone. When you travel solo, you’ll have to get used to this feeling. You will eat alone regularly.

If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll probably want to cook some of your own meals. Unfortunately, it’s hard to motivate yourself to cook when you’re alone. Buying ingredients and cooking is a time-consuming and annoying little job. It’s tempting to forget about cooking and just eat something quick. This is less healthy and oftentimes more expensive.

5. You have to plan and arrange everything by yourself

Planning an international trip takes quite a bit of work. You must create a budget, plan a route, arrange visas, research transportation, book accommodation, research activities, and more. A complicated trip can take weeks or months to plan. When you’re in the country, you’ll have to research and book hotels, find restaurants, and figure out the public transport system. This takes quite a bit of time.

Some aspects of travel are tedious and annoying to deal with. For example, when you travel alone, you must research transport schedules and book tickets, navigate unfamiliar cities, negotiate prices, and more. You must take care of everything related to the trip by yourself. These little jobs get exhausting after a while.

When you travel in a group tour, you have a guide to take care of all of the planning and most of the annoying little jobs. When you travel with friends, you can delegate tasks so everyone has less work to do.

6. The friendships you make don’t last long

You will meet plenty of new people while traveling alone. It’s easy to form quick friendships with other solo travelers as well as locals. After spending a few days in a hostel, you may feel like you’ve known your new friends for years.

The problem is that these quick friendships fade quickly. After you move on to the next hostel, you’ll meet a new group of people and quickly forget about your previous travel buddies. When you return home and get back to your regular schedule, the friendships you formed during your trip will fade further.

7. Solo travel doesn’t suit all personality types

While solo traveling, you’ll spend many hours alone with your own thoughts. There’s no getting away from it. Sometimes there just isn’t anyone around to talk to. This is often the case while in transit. Sometimes you’ll check into a hostel and find the other guests to be unfriendly. If you’re an extrovert and you’re not used to being alone, this can be a challenge. For some, it can even be frightening to spend so much time alone with your thoughts.

8. You have to rely on yourself for everything

Coming to the realization that you are completely alone in a foreign country, can be anxiety-inducing. If you fall ill, get injured, get robbed, run out of money, lose your passport, or get arrested, you’re on your own to deal with it. There is nobody there to help you out.

In addition, you have to research, plan, and book everything by yourself. This realization can feel overwhelming and scary. In fact, some people may not be competent enough to solo travel. On the first day of my first solo trip, I wondered if I was in over my head. Luckily, I figured things out.

9. You’re more likely to get scammed

Scammers tend to target solo travelers. The reason is that it’s easier for them to trick an individual than a group of people. A fast-talking con man can approach you and swindle you out of some money. There are some elaborate scams out there. You can’t catch them all. Maybe you’re tired and you’re not thinking straight. For example, a scammer sold me a fake bus ticket in Ethiopia. That cost me $10.

For more info, check out my guide to 19 Common Travel Scams.

10. You’re more likely to get pickpocketed

Pickpockets often target solo travelers. The reason is that it’s easier for them to distract an individual than a group. After all, you only have one set of eyes to keep track of all of your belongings. A pickpocket can distract you while their accomplice steals your wallet, phone, or camera.

For some tips, check out my guide: How to Avoid Getting Pickpocketed While Traveling.

I’ve been pickpocketed twice in my travels. Once in Tanzania and once in Tijuana. In both cases, the pickpocket took my phone. Miraculously, I was able to get it back both times.

11. There is no one to share your excitement or suffering with

Humans are very social. Sometimes we want to experience the beauty of a destination or the absurdity of a situation with another person. While traveling alone, there is no one to share your comments or thoughts with. You have to keep your amazement to yourself. This makes the experience feel a bit less special. Visiting a major destination with a good friend makes it feel more memorable.

Sometimes you want someone else to commiserate with. Enduring an unpleasant experience is much easier if there is someone there to share the suffering with. For example, some of my lowest points while traveling have been during long night bus journeys. The loneliness becomes excruciating. While traveling with a friend, the same long bus journey becomes fun. You can joke around and chat to pass the time.

12. Sometimes you’ll feel like the third wheel

When going out with a group of other travelers from the hostel, you may be the odd one out as a solo traveler. This may happen when you spend time with a couple or group of friends. Hanging out with people who share a common language that you don’t speak can also be awkward. If they start speaking among themselves in their language, you’re left out of the conversation. The good thing is, if you’re not having a good time, you can just go off on your own or find another group of people to socialize with.

13. Solo travel can limit be limiting

There are some places that you might not want to travel alone. For example, you may not feel comfortable traveling too far off the beaten path by yourself out of fear of getting lost or stranded. You may choose to limit yourself to the tourist trail instead to be safe. I felt a bit nervous while visiting the Omo Valley alone because I was so far from a hospital and embassy. If something went wrong, I may have been in trouble. Some solo travelers may not feel comfortable going out drinking alone or visiting certain neighborhoods alone out of fear of getting drugged or robbed. With a group, you may not have these fears.

There may be some activities that you don’t want to do alone. This is often the case in romantic destinations. For example, you probably wouldn’t want to go for a gondola ride in Venice by yourself. You wouldn’t want to go to a romantic restaurant alone. You may not want to go hiking alone for safety reasons.

14. Sometimes you feel awkward

Going to a bar or restaurant alone takes some getting used to. Some tourist sites are best experienced with a friend. Even after solo traveling for years, I still don’t enjoy going out for a drink alone. I also hate taking selfies but do so anyway on occasion if there is no one around to take a photo for me. It can be an awkward and embarrassing experience sometimes.

15. You have to carry and keep track of all of your gear by yourself

When you travel alone, you must carry everything you need for your trip in your backpack or suitcase by yourself. There is no one else to help you carry gear. In addition, you have to keep an eye on your gear at all times to make sure it doesn’t get stolen. You cannot leave your gear unattended while you go grab a coffee.

When you travel with a group, you can share some items among the group. This way, everyone carries less weight. There are also more eyes to watch everyone’s gear.

16. People feel sorry for you

Occasionally, someone will ask you where your friends or family are. They may ask why you’re alone. Many people just don’t understand solo travel. In these cases, people may pity you or think you’re weird. To me, this gets kind of frustrating and depressing. Some people just can’t get through their heads that I’m traveling alone by choice. 

17. You have to take selfies

When you travel alone, it’s difficult to get a decent picture of yourself. Much of the time, your only option is to take a selfie. Unfortunately, selfies are often low quality and kind of cheesy. It’s hard to get a good shot of yourself.

Another problem is that some solo travelers feel self-conscious when taking selfies. Particularly when everyone around has a friend to take pictures of them. It can feel kind of embarrassing and awkward to take selfies.

There are some solutions. You can ask a stranger to snap a photo of you. You can also pack a tripod and use your camera’s timer to take photos of yourself. Still, your photos won’t be as good as if you had a friend helping you get the best angle.

Pros of Group Travel

1. You develop a close bond with your travel group

When you travel with friends, you’ll grow closer to them. Even if you’ve known them for years. Overcoming hardships, navigating unusual situations, and viewing incredible sites together strengthens friendships. For the rest of your lives, you will share memories of your travel experiences together. You’ll always have an interesting travel story to reminisce about.

When you travel on a group tour, you spend the entire duration of your tour with your tour group. During that time, you will bond with your new friends. It’s not uncommon for lifelong friendships to form.

When you travel alone, it is difficult to form a strong bond with anyone you meet because you’re moving around so frequently.

2. Meeting people

When you take an organized group tour, you are guaranteed a built-in group of people to hang out with, travel with, explore with, and get to know for the duration of your trip. You never have to be alone. Organized tours also introduce you to like-minded people from around the world that you otherwise would never have met. You’ll meet a different type of travelers than you would meet when traveling alone.

Organized tours are also an excellent choice for shy travelers because they make it easy to meet people. You’re guaranteed to make friends with some of the people in your group because you are forced to spend so much time around them. It’s easy to strike up a conversation with someone you’re traveling with because everyone shares the same interest in the destination country.

3. Group travel can be cheaper

You can split the cost of hotel rooms, taxi and Uber rides, food, and tours with your friends. For example, if a taxi ride from the airport to your hostel costs $15, it only costs you $5 if you split it with two friends. If you want to hire a tour guide to show you around a site, you can split the cost with your friends. When you travel alone, you can’t split costs with anyone.

4. You can split work up amongst the group

Travel involves a number of annoying and tedious little tasks. Examples include looking up train schedules, negotiating the price of a taxi, cooking, and buying bus tickets. When you travel with a group, you can divide these little jobs among your group members. If one person gets sick and needs a break, the other group members can continue planning the trip. When you travel alone, you have to take care of all aspects of the trip by yourself.

5. Group travel is safer

As the saying goes, there is safety in numbers. When you travel in a group, you are far less likely to fall victim to crimes like mugging or assault. A criminal can’t overpower a group as easily as an individual. For this reason, bad guys are far less likely to target a group of travelers.

In addition, you’re less likely to get lost when you’re with a group because there are multiple minds navigating. If you get injured or fall ill, your group members can help you get to a hospital and call your emergency contact for you. When you’re on an organized group tour, the guide will make sure you only visit safe destinations. When you’re alone, you’re on your own.

6. The tour guide

Every organized group tour has a guide. The guide is usually a local with a deep knowledge of the region and training in hospitality. They can teach you about the sites you’re seeing, make sure you stay safe, translate the local language, help you navigate the culture, assist with immigration, and smooth out any bumps. The guide can also be your friend. A good guide can really make a group tour.

7. Sometimes you have no choice but to travel in a group

There are a handful of countries that prohibit independent travel. If you want to visit, you are required to be on a tour. Sometimes this requirement depends on your nationality. A few examples of countries with this requirement include North Korea, Iran, Bhutan, Turkmenistan, and Tibet.

In some cases, it’s simply easier to travel in a group. For example, many travelers choose to travel Africa on an overland tour instead of independently.

8. You can carry less gear

For some items, you only need one to share between the group. For example, you could get away with carrying only one water filter, tent, camp stove, and a bag of food for the whole group. Each person can carry part of the load. Everyone carries less weight as a result. When you travel solo, you have to carry everything by yourself.

9. It’s easier because there is no research and planning required

When you book a group tour, the tour company takes care of all researching, planning, reservations, and logistics for you. You don’t have to worry about reading hotel and restaurant reviews, making bookings, or looking at transport schedules. You pay one fee then you can relax and enjoy your trip. It’s easier. The guide can help you navigate the language barrier if there is one.

10. No wasted time

Most people have a limited amount of time to travel. Usually 1-2 weeks. When you take an organized tour, the company sets the pace and makes sure that time is utilized wisely. There is a rigid itinerary that the tour sticks to. You will visit all of the major attractions and a few hidden gems. You won’t miss any major sites when you take an organized tour.

When you travel alone, it’s easy to get lazy and miss out on some sites. You also have to waste time taking care of boring tasks like finding a restaurant or researching a bus schedule.

11. Someone is always there to help you out

If you catch malaria or sprain your ankle, your friends are there to take you to the hospital or carry your backpack for you. If your debit card gets stolen and you run out of money, your group members can lend you some cash so you’re not stranded. It is comforting to know that someone you trust is there and willing to help you out if you need it. You don’t have to rely on yourself for everything.

12. Falling victim to a scam is less likely

Scammers don’t approach groups as often. The reason is that it’s more difficult to trick a group of people than an individual. Chances are, someone will identify the scam before it takes place because are multiple minds analyzing everything. Of course, a group can still get conned. There are some shockingly elaborate scams out there.

13. Theft is less likel y

It is also harder for pickpockets to steal from a group because there are multiple sets of eyes watching everyone’s gear. You can also ask your group members to keep an eye on your gear while you go to the bathroom or into a shop.

14. Someone is always there to experience the moment with you

When traveling with friends, you always have someone there to share the beauty or misery with. Sometimes you just want to complain about the situation or comment on your surroundings. Sometimes you want someone to appreciate a site with. If you’re all alone, you don’t get to do this. Some destinations are best experienced with friends by your side.

15. You can travel further into the middle of nowhere

When you’re alone, you have to consider how you will get back to civilization in the event of an unexpected accident or event. When you have friends with you, someone can go for help if the worst happens. For example, imagine if you fell while hiking and broke a leg. If your friend is there, they can carry you or find help. You may not feel comfortable wandering as far by yourself. 

16. No Experience Required

You don’t need any skills or travel experience to travel in a group. The guide takes care of all of the difficult parts of the trip for you and helps you stay safe. You can travel wherever you want. Also, some people just aren’t suited for solo travel.

For some destinations, you may need some travel experience if you want to visit alone. For example, most people wouldn’t feel comfortable traveling to Nigeria or Afghanistan on their first solo trip.

17. You’ll get better travel photos

When you travel with a group, there is always someone there to take pictures for you. You don’t have to bother with selfies. You can also take group pictures. It’s fun to look at pictures with your new friends together. At the end of the trip, you can swap photos with your group members. If you’re lucky, you’ll get some awesome candid shots of yourself as well.

Cons of Group Travel

1. You have to make compromises

When you travel with a group, you can’t always get your way and do what you want to do. For example, maybe your travel group wants to go to the beach and you want to go to a museum. Maybe one person wants to eat at a fancy restaurant and you want to eat street food. Everyone has their own preferences.

When disagreements occur, you must negotiate and compromise with your group members. You don’t get to do what you want all of the time. When you travel with a group, it’s not your trip. It’s the group’s trip. This can be difficult to accept.

When solo traveling, there is no compromise. You make all of your own decisions and do whatever you want.

2. You have less freedom and independence when traveling in a group

When you travel on an organized group tour, the itinerary is already set. You don’t get to choose which hotel you stay at, which restaurant you eat at, when you wake up, or when you go to sleep. You follow the pre-planned itinerary. There is very little freedom or independence.

When you travel with a group of friends, you have a bit more freedom but you still must follow the group. If all of your friends want to fly to your next destination but you want to take the train, you’re out of luck. You could go off on your own but then you’re not really traveling with a group.

When you travel alone, you have absolute freedom to control every aspect of your trip. You can be as spontaneous as you wish.

3. There will be arguments and disagreements

Traveling in a group can be a real test of your patience and relationships. Disagreements and arguments will happen. it’s inevitable. Even if you’re traveling with your best friends.

Arguments are common for a number of reasons. First, travel gets stressful. For example, maybe you’re running late for a flight. Some people become snappy when they get stressed. Travel is also exhausting. For example, you may get a poor night of sleep while taking a night bus across a country. Some people get cranky and argumentative when they’re tired. While traveling, you are also forced to spend a great deal of time in close proximity to your group members. Sometimes different personalities don’t mix well.

All of this makes for a perfect environment for disagreements and arguments to happen. A tense atmosphere is uncomfortable for everyone in the group. If arguments aren’t resolved and the relationship between your group members turns toxic it could ruin the trip. Friendships can even end.

If you get in an argument with one of your group members, try to distance yourself from them for a while. Give yourself and your group some space and let things cool down if possible. Don’t be afraid to apologize if you made a mistake.

4. It can be difficult to make decisions

When you travel with a group, you have to take everyone’s preferences into consideration and make sure everyone is content with every decision. The more people in the group, the more difficult it becomes to make a decision. Everyone has an opinion. You can’t make everyone happy.

One problem that can arise is that one group member takes the role of the leader. This is often the group member with the strongest personality. This person may try to take over the trip and make your decisions for you.

If this happens, you must make sure that your voice is heard. Speak up and tell the group what you want to do. This can be difficult if you’re a passive perosn. If you take the leadership role, you must listen to your group members and consider their desires. You need to be a team player, listen, and sometimes compromise.

5. You may dislike your group members

When you travel on an organized group tour, you don’t get to choose who you’re traveling with. You won’t know who is in your group until you meet everyone when the tour starts. An average-sized group tour has 10-20 people. It is highly likely that you won’t get along with at least one of them.

There are plenty of reasons why you may not get along. For example, maybe one of your group members is always complaining. Maybe someone is rude to the locals. Maybe you have nothing in common with your group members. Whatever the case, traveling with someone you don’t like can be awkward and annoying. It could even ruin your trip. This is a major risk of booking yourself on a group tour.

There are a couple of ways to reduce your chance of getting stuck in a bad group. First, you can book yourself on a small tour. The fewer people there are, the less likely that there will be an annoying member. You can also book yourself on a tour that fits your age and personality. For example, if you’re young and active, book yourself on a tour that is designed for backpackers. Don’t book yourself on a tour for retirees.

Of course, you could also find that you don’t get along with your group if you’re traveling with friends. Some people behave differently when abroad. Some people just don’t travel well. In this case, you could go off on your own.

6. No privacy or alone time

When you travel with a group, chances are you’ll be sharing hotel rooms, eating together, and taking the same transport as your group members. You don’t get any privacy or time to yourself. Spending so much time in such close proximity to your group can be a challenge. Particularly for travelers who are more introverted.

When you’re traveling with friends, you can usually split up from your group for some time. Maybe you spend a day exploring by yourself then meet up with your group for dinner. When you’re on an organized group tour, you may not have this luxury. Generally, the itinerary is so tight that you’re with your group for the entire duration of the tour.

7. Meeting other travelers is harder

When traveling in a group, you tend to stick to your group. There is less incentive to socialize. You’re not lonely. You already have friends and don’t need to make new ones. When on an organized group tour, you’re staying in hotels instead of hostels so you’ll have fewer opportunities to meet other travelers. Other travelers are also less likely to approach you or invite you out for meals, sightseeing, or activities because it is intimidating to approach a group. As a result, you’ll meet fewer people. You may miss out on a new friendship or relationship.

8. Finding a group to travel with can be a challenge

It’s not that easy to find a group of people to travel with. Friends often flake out at the last minute. Many people don’t have enough money. Some have different interests. If you decide that absolutely have to travel with a group, you may end up not going at all. Finding a suitable person to travel with is a challenge. 

Of course, if you really want to travel with a group but you don’t have any friends that want to go, you can always book yourself on a tour.

9. You don’t get to explore an area in detail

Most group tours just hit the main sites. You might only stay in a city for 1-3 days before moving on to the next destination. You miss out on the smaller tourist sites. The tours move at a fast pace as well. You don’t have any time to stop and smell the roses. You’ll encounter the same problem when traveling with friends. Chances are, they’ll want to keep moving.

When you travel alone, you can spend as much time as you want in each city or country. If you fall in love with on place, you can spend a month there and explore it in detail.

10. Group travel can be more expensive

When you travel on a group tour, you are paying the tour agency to plan the trip for you. They take care of all logistics, bookings, and maybe even visas. You are also paying for a guide for the duration of the tour. Both of these costs are baked into the price of the trip. At the end of the trip, you’ll also be expected to give the guide a tip if they provided a good service.

Prices are also locked in. You are paying for all of your food, accommodation, transportation, and activities at the time of booking. You can’t eat street food or stay in a cheaper hotel to save money because you have already paid for everything when you booked.

When you travel alone, you can cut corners, bargain hunt, and adjust your budget as you go. If you’re frugal, solo travel can be cheaper than group travel.

11. Your group can slow you down or rush you

With more people, more problems come up. For example, someone could get food poisoning on a travel day. That means you lose a day waiting for them to get better. Someone could have their phone pickpocketed. That means you have to spend time going shopping for a new one. While traveling in a group, it seems like there is always a crisis. This slows everyone down .

Your group can also rush you. For example, maybe you’re a not a morning person but your group likes to start the day early. You may feel rushed. Maybe you like to spend 6 hours in museums but your group rushes through in an hour. You’ll feel like you missed out.

12. Group travel is less adventurous

When your friends are around, it just doesn’t feel like an adventure. It’s just too familiar. There is always someone there to rely on and talk to. It feels more like you’re just hanging out. You don’t have to deal with the loneliness or struggles of solo travel. As a result, you won’t really grow as a person or learn as much.

13. Meeting local people is more difficult

When you travel on an organized group tour, you probably won’t meet many locals. The locals that you do meet will be those who work in the tourism industry. The reason is that group tours tend to stick to touristy areas that regular locals avoid. You stay in hotels and eat in restaurants that are frequented by tourists. When you travel from one destination to the next, you’ll sit next to a group member or take private transport. You are somewhat isolated from regular locals when you travel on a group tour.

Local people may also be less likely to approach you to chat when you’re traveling in a group. It can be intimidating to approach a group of foreigners.

When you travel alone, you encounter locals while in transit, while eating, and while out walking around. Solo travelers are also much easier to approach. You also have the freedom to seek out local friends.

My Experience

I have been traveling, off and on, for the past 10 years. The vast majority of this time has been spent solo traveling. I prefer it for a number of reasons. First, solo travel just better suits my personality. As an introvert, I prefer to spend most of my time alone. When I want to socialize, I can always meet some fellow travelers in the hostel. I also value having the freedom to do what I want without compromise.

On the few occasions that I have traveled with a group, I have thoroughly enjoyed it. Group travel is great in small bursts. For a short trip, I may even prefer group travel. After a while, I inevitably grow tired of my travel buddies. That’s just what happens if you spend too much time in such close proximity to another person.

In my experience, the first 2 weeks of each solo trip can be a bit rough. It takes time to get into the solo travel mindset. Living in close quarters in hostels, spending long hours on buses, and navigating unfamiliar places alone takes some getting used to.

During this time, I sometimes think to myself, why do I do this? After that rough couple of weeks ends, I’m back into the swing of things and don’t want to travel any other way. The absolute freedom of solo travel is addictive.

Final Thoughts

Solo travel certainly isn’t for everyone. It’s lonely, more difficult to plan, and slightly riskier. With that said, it’s definitely something that everyone should try at least once. It’s one of those things that you just never know whether or not you’ll like unless you give it a try. After my first solo trip, I was hooked.

Having said that, sometimes group travel is the better choice. A short trip with friends can be an excellent bonding experience. Group tours are a great way to visit difficult or dangerous destinations safely and easily. Group travel is also a bit safer and less stressful. Even if you’re a hardcore solo traveler, consider giving a group tour a try.

In the end, this decision comes down to personal choice. There is no best way to travel. Hopefully, this guide helps you decide which style of travel is best for your next trip.

Where do you stand on the solo travel vs group travel debate? Share your experience in the comments below!

More from Where the Road Forks

• ls Solo travel Safe? Avoiding Crime, Scams, and Injury While Traveling Alone
• Solo Travel Tips: Save Money, Stay Safe, and Make Friends While Traveling Alone
• How to Plan a Round the World Trip
• How to Provide Proof of Onward Travel: 8 Options Including the Fake Ticket Method
• Summer Travel Tips: Beat the Heat, Avoid Crowds, and Save Money
• Am I Too Old for Hostels?
• How to Make an Accurate Budget for Long Term Travel

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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Wednesday 28th of September 2022

T love this. I enjoy solo traveling due to its flexibility. You can enjoy anywhere you choose for as long you want. However, I sometimes dabble into group travel because this enables us to split the cost of travel.

jasonlikestotravel

Saturday 13th of July 2019

Great read. I agree everyone should at least try traveling solo to see if it's for them. I'd probably also agree that I prefer solo travel although there are pros to having company.

wheretheroadforks

Yeah, there are definitely benefits to having company. Particularly during a long bus or train ride. Overall, I really enjoy traveling alone.

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• 88 Must-Know Travel Statistics by Age Group for 2024

After years of travel restrictions, the hospitality and travel industry bounced back thanks to record-breaking travel spending . Of course, not all travelers are interested in the same kind of experience. Road trips , international travel, and weekend getaways appeal to different people. However, one factor can dramatically change travel preferences: age. 

Whether you want to keep up with trends or find inspiration for your next trip, we’ve compiled a list of travel statistics by age group to show you how different generations travel solo and together. We’ll also share statistics about destinations, methods, reasons for travel, and accommodation preferences.

Travel Statistics by Age Group

While baby boomers prefer to use all of their vacation days, millennials aren’t afraid to dip into debt to plan their dream trip. Read on to learn how age impacts travel in today’s post-pandemic landscape.

Baby Boomer Travel Statistics

Thanks to their established careers, baby boomers have the resources to travel longer and more often. Here are the specifics: 

• Baby boomers’ vacations typically last a week or more, the longest of any generation ( Expedia ). 
• Baby boomers take the most time to plan their trips, often booking months in advance ( Expedia ).
• Only 66% of baby boomers believe it’s important to book your entire trip online, less than any other generation ( Hilton ).
• Baby boomers expected to take an average of four to five trips in 2023 ( AARP ).
• 54% of baby boomers let environmental changes factor into travel planning, less than any other generation ( Hilton ).
• 25% of baby boomers look for hotels advertising quality mattresses for a good night’s sleep ( Hilton ).
• 86% of baby boomers seek out local and regional cuisine when traveling ( Hilton ).
• Baby boomers are more than twice as likely as other generations to prioritize the human factor in hospitality over technology services ( Hilton ).
• 62% of baby boomers prioritize using all of their vacation days each year ( AARP ).
•  59% of baby boomers refuse to bring work with them on trips ( AARP ).

Gen X Travel Statistics

Gen X travelers often balance careers and family obligations with their travel plans. With that in mind, here are some statistics on Gen X travel:

• Gen X plans to travel the least, with only 76% of Gen Xers planning to increase or maintain their travel levels from previous years. By comparison this number jumps to 77% for baby boomers, 79% for Gen Z, and 84% for Millennials  ( Avail ).
• 68% of Gen Xers list rest as their main reason to travel, more than any other generation ( Hilton ).
• 45% of Gen X travelers prioritize restaurants and culinary experiences when traveling ( Hilton ).
• Gen X takes an average of 17.9 days off a year and dedicates 8.2 of those to travel ( U.S. Travel Association ).
• 79% of Gen X expect their personal devices to work when traveling ( Hilton ).
• 84% of Gen X say they want to experience something new when traveling ( Hilton ).
• 78% of Gen X say they want to feel pampered and taken care of while traveling ( Hilton ).

Millennial Travel Statistics

Here are some of the top millennial travel and vacationing statistics:

• 65% of millennials save money specifically for travel ( Expedia ).
• 42% of millennials have traveled alone, more than any other generation ( Expedia ).
• 27% of millennials have posted about their trip plans on social media to source opinions before booking ( Expedia ).
• Two-thirds of millennials turn to social media for food recommendations when traveling ( American Express ).
• 22% of millennials pack a favorite pillow for more comfort when traveling ( Hilton ).
• 37% of millennials want a wellness-focused travel experience ( Hilton ).
• While 60% of millennials want to rest and recharge when traveling, 52% still want an element of exploration and adventure ( Hilton ).
• Millennials seek out diverse travel experiences—33% prioritize cultural events, 30% want live music experiences, and 26% want to attend sporting events ( Hilton ).
• 84% of millennials want to increase or maintain their travel levels from previous years, more than any other generation ( Avail ).
• 77% of millennials try to use all of their vacation time each year ( AARP ). 
• 78% of millennials bring their work with them on trips  ( AARP ).
• Millennials are the most willing generation to take on debt for travel ( Travel Pulse ).
• 23% of millennials report meeting fellow travelers as a main reason to take trips ( WYSE Travel Confederation ).
• 45% of millennials take trips to learn more about themselves ( WYSE Travel Confederation ).

Gen Z Travel Statistics

While many Gen Zers haven’t reached adulthood, trends have begun around the ways they travel. 

• 74% of Gen Z travelers like to bundle their entire trip’s reservations and services with their hotel bookings entirely online ( Hilton ).
• 75% of Gen Z says QR codes improved their dining experiences when traveling ( Hilton ).
• 11% percent of Gen Z have delayed a breakup with a significant other to go on a planned trip ( Expedia ).
• 81% of Gen Z travelers feel obligated to text significant others or their families before a flight takeoff and after landing ( Expedia ).
• 36% of Gen Z base their travel destinations on places they saw on social media ( Expedia ).
• 71% of Gen Z report they would get a part-time job to save money needed for a trip ( Expedia ).
• Gen Z is the most intentional about winding down for a good night’s sleep when traveling, with 25% avoiding alcohol before bed and 21% regulating their workout routine ( Hilton ).

Reasons for Travel Statistics

Different generations travel for different reasons. Here are a few statistics showing how:

• Gen Z travelers prefer travel experiences involving exploration, adventure, and trying new activities ( Expedia ).
• Baby boomers prioritize sightseeing, touring, and traditional travel experiences ( Expedia ).
• Millennials and Gen X travelers are most likely to use travel as a way to relax ( Expedia ).
• 74% of travelers fulfilled travel expectations over low costs ( American Express ).
• 78% of travelers see leisure travel as a budgeting priority ( American Express ).
• 48% of travelers like destinations they can show on social media ( American Express ).
• 64% of travelers have been inspired to try a destination after seeing it on a TV show, movie, or news segment ( American Express ).
• 57% of travelers take vacations to prioritize wellness ( American Express ).

Destination Travel Statistics

Different generations prioritize different destinations. Review these area tourism statistics to understand how:

• In the next year, 69% of American travelers want to vacation in the United States. By contrast, 12% prefer international trips ( Avail ).
• New York City remains the most popular domestic destination, followed by Orlando and Las Vegas ( Hopper ).

• Europe is the highest-demand international travel destination for Americans, followed by Asia ( Hopper ).
• Warm weather destinations, including Mexico, the Antilles, and various Central American countries, create 20% of international search demand in the U.S. ( Hopper ). 
• 19% of Americans would consider domestic and international travel in the next year ( Avail ).
• 59% of Americans plan to stay in a hotel during their upcoming trip ( Avail ).
• 89% of travelers want to visit destinations they’ve never been to before ( American Express ).

Spending and Cost of Travel Statistics

Your age and income play a key role in travel spending. Discover how: 

• 57% of Americans currently save money for travel ( Expedia ).
• Low-income travelers prioritize quality time with friends and family on trips,  and middle-income travelers prioritize sightseeing and tourism. The highest earners see travel as a chance to relax ( Expedia ).

• 49% of millennials and Gen Zers would sell clothes or furniture to afford a trip ( Expedia ). 
• Cost plays the largest role in shaping travel decisions, with 61% reporting it has the greatest impact on their plans ( Avail ). 
• 84% of Americans paid more for travel in 2023 than 2022. This increase stems from rising costs and more frequent travel ( Hopper ).
• Travelers who fly midweek save an average of $90 on domestic flights and over $140 on international trips ( Hopper ).

Method of Travel Statistics

Here are a few statistics on how different age groups prefer to travel:

• Personal vehicles, flights, and rental cars top the list of preferred methods for reaching a destination ( Avail ).
• Most travelers prefer driving or walking when traveling around their destination ( Avail ).
• Younger travelers show the most interest in using car or bus sharing to reach their destination, especially when it cuts down on costs ( Avail ).
• Air travel demand grew 12% in summer 2023 compared to summer 2022 ( U.S. Travel Association ).
• In 2023, the number of passengers going through Port Everglades, one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, was 77% higher compared to 2022 ( NPR ).

Booking and Accommodation Travel Statistics

Where and when you book accommodations correlates to age in a few key ways:

• 90% of travelers plan to book a vacation in the next 12 months, with the majority claiming COVID-19 has not impacted their sense of safety enough to change travel plans ( Avail ).
• 33% of Gen Z travelers will pass on a hotel because it doesn’t offer free internet access ( Expedia ).
• Millennials and Gen Zers prefer to book vacations over long weekends that last  three to five days ( Expedia ).
• Younger generations usually book accommodations less than 30 days in advance ( Expedia ).
• Older travelers prefer to book accommodations about two months before their trip ( Avail ).

• 80% of Americans prefer to book all their accommodations, rentals, flights, and reservations on one website. That number jumps up to 87% for Gen Z ( Expedia ).
• Half of Gen Z and 48% of millennials prefer to book transportation and accommodations by visiting an online travel agency ( Expedia ).
• Personal finances and travel expenses play the largest role in booking and accommodation decisions. However, Gen Z is the only group to prioritize safety and security over cost when booking accommodations ( Avail ).
• Hotels are the most common accommodation travelers book when planning trips. Staying with friends and family comes second ( Avail ).
• 38% of travelers prioritize booking with extra deals or free upgrades to their accommodations ( Expedia ).
• 35% of travelers made travel plans where they stayed in one- to three-star hotels in 2023 ( Expedia ).

Group Travel Statistics

Some new trends in group travel have emerged in the past few years. To highlight these changes, consider the data on travel with family, friends, and coworkers.

Family Travel Statistics

When looking at the ways families travel together, keep these statistics in mind:

• Gen Z is the most likely generation in adulthood to travel with their parents, with 54% reporting they usually or always travel with family ( Expedia ).
• 58% of Gen Z travelers report their parents paid for trip expenses when they traveled together in the past year ( Expedia ).
• 24% of millennials report their parents pay for travel costs when they vacation together ( Expedia ).
• Family-friendly travel options are a high priority for 91% of millennial parents ( Hilton ).

Work Travel Statistics

Whether it’s for business or business and leisure, here are a few statistics on work travel:

• 52% of remote workers report their work flexibility affects how they plan business and personal trips ( Hopper ).
• 1 in 3 Hopper users have traveled or expect to travel for work in the next year ( Hopper ).
• 46% of full-time or self-employed workers travel for business and leisure, or “bleisure.” ( Hilton ).
• Over 1 in 3 millennials and gen Z workers plan to extend work vacations for more leisure time before or after business obligations ( Hilton ).

Friend Group Travel Statistics

Here are a few data points about how friends travel together:

• Over half of travelers booking rentals with their friends report amenities are one of the most important criteria ( Expedia ).
• 38% of travelers cook to cut down on vacation costs ( Expedia ).
• 41% of friends traveling together cook shared meals to bond as a group ( Expedia ).
• 46% of friend groups traveling together make dining reservations before booking their trip ( American Express ).
• 45% of travelers use travel as a means to reconnect with friends ( Hilton ).

How Age Affects Travel

While age doesn’t have a one-to-one effect on how people travel, these statistics show a few key correlations. Here are some of the most significant points:

• Duration of trips: Baby boomers and Gen X have more to spend on traveling, largely because they’re more established in their careers. As a result, older generations tend to take longer trips than millennials or Gen Z. 
• Working while traveling: millennials are more likely to work while traveling than Gen X or baby boomers. Because their trips are shorter and more spontaneous, this allows them to take a trip without taking too much PTO.
• Cost of trips: There’s a direct correlation between age and the amount travelers are willing to spend for their trips. While millennials and Gen Z are happy to save or take on a part-time job, baby boomers still spend the most on their vacations.
• Travel destinations: Because far-away destinations cost more to reach, older generations travel abroad more often. That said, domestic travel is popular among all generations. 
• Solo and group travel: Younger generations have a greater interest in traveling alone. They are also interested in adventurous experiences that don’t suit family trips and that they can book at the last minute. As a result, solo travel is on the rise.

Plan Your Next Trip With GOGO Charters

Even after years of turbulence, every generation still wants the chance to travel by air, car, or bus . While each generation travels differently, reviewing these travel statistics by age group reveals a few common threads. Whether you’re trying to go abroad or have a weekend getaway, the chance to travel is well worth the investment. 

To help you get where you’re going, try GOGO Charters. Our extensive fleet includes minibus and charter bus rentals . Our rentals suit every occasion, from family reunions to corporate retreats, by offering customization to fit your needs.

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Travel statistics by age group (2023) // latest research.

• Bill Widmer
• Updated: June 14, 2023

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With the average worker taking 17.2 days of vacation per year and spending $3,500 to $6,000   per trip, there ‘s a lot of money in the travel industry. Millennials, in particular, travel 35 days a year and like to spend all their free time traveling.

Age is often a significant factor when it comes to making travel decisions.

Since each age group has its own unique set of needs and characteristics, each one is influenced and motivated in different ways. 

This report seeks to share insights on each age group and contains over 70 travel statistics.

See the Table of Contents below for an overview!

Table of Contents

Essential travel statistics by age group, which age group spends the most on leisure travel in the united states, what are the most popular travel destinations for different age demographics, what age group travels the most & how do they compare, what inspires baby boomers, gen xers, gen z & millennials to travel, how do different generations like to travel, what influences travel plans & booking habits.

• Most people who worked in America took a total of 17.2 days of vacation a year.
• 70% of Millennials preferred to stay in a hotel or motel during their travels.
• Those part of Gen Z use online travel agencies to plan and book their trips, and 43% of them stay for 29 days.
• The total amount spent by Baby Boomers on travel reached $157 billion last year.
• Millennials and those who belong to the Gen Z age group spend $60 a day on travel, averaging $3,500 spent while traveling.
• 35% of Millennials choose stay in luxury resorts when traveling.
• Social media factors into the vacation decisions of 90% of Gen Z travelers.
• Most Millennials take 35 vacation days a year and prefer to travel for all or most of the time they are not working.
• Gen X travels the least at 29 days , followed by Gen Z.
• 40% of Millennials and their friends are planning to travel in 2020.
• Most Gen Z travelers seek adventure during their trips.
• A quarter of people who belong to the Gen Z age group spent a quarter of their travel budget on flights.
• 83% of Millennials want all-inclusive vacation packages.
• More Millennials ( 77% ) use the entirety of their vacations for travel as opposed to 62% of Baby Boomers.

Travel statistics by age group indicate that Millennial travelers seem to be the most diverse traveler group in terms of socioeconomic status and with whom they travel. Those who travel alone, with friends, or with partners tend to take more adventurous trip packages. However, those with children prefer family-friendly leisure activities and are increasingly likely to bring their children along with them on vacation.

Generation Z is still young and is thus limited in terms of its spending power. The younger generation seems to want to make the most out of their trips, spending the most time abroad.

• 25% of Gen Z travel budgets are spent on air travel.
• The vast majority of those who belong to Gen X look for the best deals before booking a vacation.
• 57% of boomers determine their trips based on their budgets, compared to 81% of those who belong to Gen Z.
• Tours and sightseeing make up 13% of Gen X vacation budgets.
• Boomers spend at least $1,865 per person on summer vacation travel.
• Boomers spent a total of $6,600 or more on trips in 2019.
• A one-week vacation costs 56% of Millennials between $500 – $1,000.
• Millennials spend $1,373 per person as an average on summer vacation travel.
• Gen X spends the most on summer vacations, at  $2,628 .
• The age group most likely to borrow money to travel are Millennials.
• 1 in 3 Millennials are wealthy enough to afford to pay $5,000 or more on a vacation.
• Baby boomers spend the most overall, able to afford over $6,000 on a single vacation.

Baby boomers lead the way when it comes to spending on vacation. This ability to afford more on their travels comes from their financial strength and stability. Most boomers over the age of 53 no longer have children living with them at home. Many are nearing or have already reached retirement age, which means they have more time and money to spend on vacations.

However, Generation X is the group most likely to spend more on vacations. The reason may be due to their responsibilities as parents of children who are still in school. More family members and a high-traffic travel season, like spring break or summer vacation, mean additional expenses.

Generation Z is the most restricted when it comes to financing travel. Air tickets alone often account for a quarter or more of their total budget.

Although both domestic and international travel is popular, domestic travel remains the most accessible to all age groups, and the most cost-effective.

• 51% of both boomers and Gen Xers will go on domestic trips compared to 42% of Millennials.
• Millennials averaged 19% in their tendency for international travel.
• People from the UK above the age of 65 prefer to visit Portugal, Italy, Spain, and France.
• 12% of people who belong to the Generation X age group traveled outside of their countries in 2019.
• 46% of Gen Xers, 51% of those aged 25 to 34, and 43% of baby boomers forecast traveling to both international and domestic destinations in the coming year.
• A small minority ( 7% Millennials, 6% of Boomers and 3% of Gen Xers) will only travel internationally in the upcoming year.
• Baby boomers plan and book their trips months in advance, at a rate of 56% .
• Gen X is less likely to travel abroad as opposed to other generations.
• Gen Z preferred to visit Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo, Buenos Aires, San Francisco, and Sydney.

Since they are older, those who belong to Gen X and the boomer age groups are more likely to be able to afford an international and domestic trip. Only a small number of people from all age groups plan to travel only to international destinations in 2020, the largest group being Millennials at 7% , followed by boomers at 6% .

The youngest generation in these statistics, Gen Z, prefers to go to cities more than other groups and likes to visit well-known and accessible cities. The most organized in terms of trip planning and also considered more responsible are boomers. The vast majority of baby boomers book months in advance for a trip and are more likely to seek luxury accommodations.

• Baby boomers who take both international and domestic vacations total 42%.
• Millennials take the longest vacations and average 35 total days a year.
• Generation Z takes the second-longest vacations, numbering 29 days.
• Baby boomers are most likely to take 27 days off for travel.
• Generation X has the fewest vacation days, at 26 total.
• Baby boomers will likely take 4-5 trips in 2020.

Baby boomers, by far, are the group most likely to travel and be able to afford it comfortably. They are expected to travel an average of 4-5 times a year , both to national and international destinations. However, they do not stay on vacation the longest. That number belongs to Millennials, who take the most extended vacations abroad and use up most, if not all, of their vacation days on trips.

As for Generation Z, they hold the spot for the second-longest vacation times but spend little compared to Gen Xers. Gen Xers travel less frequently than Gen Z, but they spend more money and usually go on different types of vacations due to their tendency to have family accompanying them.

There are different types of travelers in the United States. Each one has unique needs and plans their trips based on their age and lifestyle.

• Self-discovery was cited as the #1 reason for travel by 45% of Millennials.
• Baby boomers who travel to visit loved ones total 56% .
• Half of all trips taken by Millennials are to see their families.
• Millennials are 13% more interested in visiting historical and cultural sites as opposed to other age groups.
• Most Millennials ( 83% ) prefer all-inclusive travel deals.
• Gen Z ( 40% ) and Millennials ( 47% ) like to take soothing vacations.
• People from the Gen Z age group mainly travel to visit family members at 56% .

Traveling is more than just sightseeing for the vast majority of people who expect their vacations to not only be enjoyable but memorable and bring them personal value. Being able to travel alone has several positive effects on people, such as broadening their world view. Furthermore, many people are motivated to find themselves while they rely entirely on themselves in a foreign country.

Millennials are most likely to seek options that give them the least amount of hassle and headaches as possible. Although they are not restricted to guided experiences, Millennials seem to want them to avoid any unforeseen issues along the way. 

An increasing percentage of the younger generations, specifically Gen Z and Millennials, are now opting to take vacations solely for relaxation purposes.

Depending on the distance, travelers have a wealth of options when it comes to choosing a mode of travel.

• 35% of Millennials prefer to have professional accommodation options like hotels.
• Most millennials ( 96% ) have no issues with solo travel.
• Baby boomers are most likely to go on vacation cruises, followed by Millennials and Gen Xers.
• Millennials are the group most likely to travel to a major city at 38% .
• 43% of those who are part of Gen X use a car to travel domestically.
• Millennials do 70% of hotel bookings.
• Since most Gen Xers have children, 70% take family-oriented trips.
• Millennials are most likely to take an unconventional vacation.
• A quarter of boomers extend their business trip stays to enjoy leisure time.
• Weekend trips are most popular with Gen X ( 16% ) followed by baby boomers ( 11% ) and 12% of those aged 25-34 (Millennials).
• It is estimated that 40% of Millennials will book a trip with friends in 2020.
• 3 out of 10 boomers choose cruises to go on vacation trips.
• Millennial parents with children below the age of 5 travel at a rate of 62% .

As the industries that cater to different travel experiences increase in number, people now have different options that range from short, one-day or weekend vacations to package deals on cruises that take them to several different countries or islands.

Air travel remains the most convenient, safe, and accessible mode of travel. Air travel is especially popular when it comes to international destinations.

In terms of where they prefer to stay, most travelers still use hotels, motels, and hostels for accommodation. These accommodations differ based on the nature of the trip since travelers on cruises sleep in their cabins.

Millennials and Gen Z are the leading groups when it comes to city-based trip experiences. While older travelers are looking for more exotic experiences, the groups who grew up with technology were more likely to seek modern forms of travel and accommodations.

• Only 1 in 10 Baby Boomers rely on social media to make travel-related decisions.
• Gen Z is the group most likely to be influenced by social media at 90% .
• 36% of Gen Z is influenced by social media when it comes to travel.
• More than half of those who belong to Gen X use online travel agents to book their travels ( 55% ).
• Boomers are the group second most likely to be influenced by travel ads, at 66% .
• The group that is most influenced by advertising is Millennials, at 72% .

Based on the age group, the use of social media, the internet, and advertisements in general are touted as the most effective ways to influence travel plans. The group that is least influenced by advertisements are Gen Z, while those who are most influenced are Millennials.

Another noteworthy trend is the reliance on online reviews and social media to motivate travel decisions. Those who have been raised alongside technology are more likely to resort to online resources when planning their travels. Boomers were least likely to be influenced by social media posts or internet advertisements that cater to travelers, as they spend less time online than younger generations.

Travel agents and travel agencies still book trips, although the process has been digitized. These agencies often advertise for their own deals, and older age groups are more likely to book through them than to do so themselves.

Therefore, based on age, financial stability, and lifestyle, travel decisions are influenced by a multitude of factors. Boomers remain the biggest travel spenders, and women are quickly topping the lists for solo and group travel. When it comes to travel, each generation does it, and they all have their own ways of booking and enjoying their vacations.

Sources: Skift , Groupstoday , Accessdevelopment , Businessinsider , AARP , Avanti , GlobeTrender , Groupaccommodation , Expedia

Other statistic pages:

• Travel Statistics by Age Group
• U.S. Tourism Statistics
• Solo Travel Statistics
• Female Travel Statistics
• Baby Boomer Travel Statistics
• Millennial Travel Statistics
• Car Accident Statistics
• Best Places to Travel (Poll)
• Digital Marketing Statistics
• Mobile Marketing Statistics
• Video Game Statistics

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The biggest family travel trends for 2024 start in Florida

From multigenerational trips to slow travel to ecotourism, the Sunshine state has it all.

By Keri Setnicka April 8, 2024

This article is sponsored by Visit Florida. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Motherly and mamas.

Picture this: the sun is shining, laughter echoes, and you’re enjoying quality time with your favorite people. It’s not a dream; it’s Florida —and it’s just the best for family travel in 2024. In the ever-evolving landscape of family travel, several key trends have emerged, reflecting a shift toward more meaningful and sustainable experiences. The Sunshine State is the ultimate all-in-one destination, perfectly tailored for families seeking the best in slow travel, multigenerational bonding, educational adventures and eco-friendly escapades. 

No matter what travel trend fits your family’s vacation vibe this summer, it’s time to pack your bags and head south, because Florida is ready to make your getaway truly unforgettable.

Our favorite 2024 travel trends to try—and Florida has them all

Slow travel.

Amidst the daily hustle of school, work and extracurriculars (and 35 meals a week, plus snacks, but who’s counting?), families are gravitating toward slow travel—a more laid-back and immersive approach that prioritizes rest and relaxation. In Florida , this trend aligns perfectly with the state’s family-friendly charm, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a slower-paced experience. 

If planning a family getaway feels overwhelming, slow travel may be your ticket to family vacation bliss. What sets slow travel apart is its simplicity. Once accommodations are set, families can live like locals and let the days unfold organically. Explore local parks, visit coffee shops and seek recommendations from friendly baristas for the best family-friendly activities.

In Florida, slow travel is more than sun-soaked sightseeing; it’s a journey into the state’s diverse cultural tapestry. Families can attend lively local festivals and events, wander through time at historical sites , and dive into community events that offer a genuine glimpse into the state’s vibrant spirit. It also means exploring the authenticity of its culinary scene, from savoring Cuban delights to indulging in Floribbean fusion cuisine. 

Slowing down has universal appeal. For kids, it means exposure to different cultures and environments, fostering an appreciation for diversity. It provides them the opportunity to engage authentically, creating lasting memories beyond typical tourist attractions. The unhurried pace sparks curiosity, ignites imagination, and allows for genuine connections, ensuring family adventures in Florida are both relaxing and enriching.

Multi-generational trips

With extended families often scattered across various cities, the trend of multigenerational travel is on the rise—an ideal way to create shared memories and strengthen bonds across different age groups. As a destination that caters to diverse needs and interests and offers activities and accommodations suitable for everyone, Florida is a no-brainer for families traveling with toddlers, grandparents and everyone in between.

Embracing multigenerational travel is akin to an all-inclusive experience, and Florida’s abundant offerings cater to everyone. Delving into Florida’s rich cultural heritage by visiting historical sites is a great place to start. Enter a world steeped in tradition at the Miccosukee Indian Village in the Everglades, where water and seagrass stretch in all directions. From airboats and alligator demonstrations to a museum filled with historical documents, archival photographs and original artifacts, every member of the family will walk away with a memory made and a story to tell.

Museums are plentiful in the Sunshine State and many of them offer multigenerational appeal. The Daytona Beach Museum of Arts and Sciences has something for everyone—including 2,600 Florida-themed paintings, an extensive collection of race cars and mid-century train cars, one of the largest collections of Coca-Cola memorabilia in the world, an interactive children’s museum, and a captivating planetarium.

Multigenerational travel in Florida is truly special. More than just spending time together, grandparents can reminisce, parents can explore, and kids can discover, all while creating core memories and finding joy in shared experiences. 

School may be out for summer, but family vacations that combine fun and learning are in high demand, and when it comes to memorable and educational travel opportunities, Florida tops the list. Commonly referred to as “edutourism,” this trend highlighting educational and learning-focused trips is gaining popularity, and there is no shortage of enriching destinations in the Sunshine State. 

For those interested in environmental conservation and natural sciences, Florida is a treasure trove. Visit The Turtle Hospital in the Florida Keys, where guided tours provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the veterinary hospital dedicated to rehabilitating sick and injured sea turtles. Or, venture to the Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation , where more than 100 exotic and rare animals reside in expansive, natural enclosures.

Florida’s allure extends to science and space enthusiasts, with the unmissable Kennedy Space Center beckoning visitors into the realm of space exploration. Meanwhile, the IMAG History and Science Center stands tall as a family-friendly haven, boasting interactive exhibits, an aquarium, 3D theater and a unique 3D Virtual Reality experience. Focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), IMAG also delves into the history of Southwest Florida, offering hands-on experiences and educational programs that will spark curiosity and an appreciation for the region’s natural wonders and rich history.

Learning is fun, and you’ll be surprised by how enthusiastic about learning your little ones will be after embarking on an educational vacation. With a plethora of destinations to explore in Florida, the educational opportunities seem endless. Rest assured, they’ll likely still be sharing their newfound knowledge when they head back to school in the fall!

Sustainable and eco-friendly travel, known as “ecotourism,” has been on the rise for solo travelers for decades, and we’re starting to see an increased number of families embracing eco-friendly travel by choosing destinations that prioritize the environment, opting for green accommodations, and diving into activities that promote conservation and sustainability. It’s not just about reducing our carbon footprint; it’s a hands-on lesson for the whole family on why we need to protect our planet. From eco-hotels to nature excursions, Florida is an ideal destination for families who want to reduce their impact, maximize fun and create lifelong memories.

Hotels and vacation rental owners are not only acknowledging the growing demand for sustainability practices, but hundreds in Florida have made a commitment to conserve and protect the state’s natural resources—and they’re doing more than just offering paper straws. Start your search by exploring options accredited by the Florida Green Lodging Program and the Green Key Global Eco-Rating Program. Take your sustainable stay a step further by pitching a tent under the stars at one of Florida’s State Parks that offers camping—an experience your kids will never forget.

On a smaller scale (that makes a big impact), consider eco-friendly options that combine food and fun activities. If you’re traveling with kids and managing a budget, consider grabbing berries at local farmers’ markets (or pick your own!) and dining at family-friendly farm-to-table restaurants that not only contribute to the local economy but also play a role in supporting the thriving local ecosystem. The Redlands region of Miami-Dade County in the Everglades is chock-full of these types of experiences, from several pick-your-own strawberry farms that kids will love to Fruit & Space Park , a tropical botanical garden showcasing exotic foods that don’t grow anywhere else in the country. 

Beyond eco-conscious stays and excursions, Florida offers a range of natural wonders, from pristine beaches and lush national parks to wildlife-rich ecosystems. It’s an ideal destination for families that will leave everyone with a greater appreciation for the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.

You’ll find it in Florida

Florida has it all. Whether you’re looking to slow down, plan a multigenerational escapade with your parents and in-laws, or embark on educational and eco-friendly adventures, you’ll find it in Florida. So buckle up and get ready to make some epic memories, because in the Sunshine State, family travel isn’t just a trend, it’s a way of life filled with culture, natural beauty—and a whole lot of fun.

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8 Norwegian Cruise Passengers Stranded on African Island Catch Up to Ship After Traversing 7 Countries

The group of stranded American and Australian passengers included four elderly people, one with a heart condition and a pregnant woman

Natalia Senanayake is an Editorial Assistant, Lifestyle at PEOPLE. She covers all things travel and home, from celebrities' luxury mansions to breaking travel news.

Sipa via AP

• Nine Norwegian Cruise Line passengers were reportedly left behind on the African island of São Tomé and Príncipe on March 27 
• The group was on a guided excursion that got delayed, leading them to miss the ship’s "all aboard" call 
• A statement from Norwegian Cruise Lines noted that all guests are responsible for returning to the docked ship at the designated call time 
• Eight people were able to catch up to the ship on Tuesday morning after reportedly traversing seven countries.
• One, who had fallen ill before the incident, has safely returned to the U.S.

Multiple passengers were stranded on an island in Africa after their Norwegian Cruise Line ship reportedly left them behind. After several days of uncertainty and a trek across seven countries, they're now back on board the vessel.

On Wednesday, March 27, South Carolina couple Jill and Jay Campbell were enjoying a guided tour on the island of São Tomé and Príncipe located off the continent's western coast, ABC15 News reported at the time. The pair was with six other American and Australian passengers when they realized they wouldn’t make it back to the ship on time due to their tour taking longer than planned.

Though the tour operator contacted the cruise ship’s captain to inform them of the delay, the captain refused to let them back on the still-anchored ship when they arrived at the port because it was after the "all aboard" call, per the outlet. 

The São Tomé and Príncipe Coast Guard allegedly then took them by boat directly to the ship where the captain again did not permit them to board. 

The group later encountered another stranded passenger, an 80-year-old woman, who was hospitalized on the island after a cruise line tour, the outlet stated. The woman reportedly experienced memory and vision loss due to a medical emergency. 

In addition to the ill passenger, the group also includes one person who is pregnant, one with a heart condition and four elderly travelers. 

The majority of the group left their medications and credit cards on the ship except for the Campbells, who have reportedly paid over $5,000 for food, accommodations, and other necessities for their fellow passengers. 

On Sunday, the U.S. Embassy in Angola allegedly arranged for the group to fly to the West African country of Gambia, the ship's next planned port of call, so they could reboard. 

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Unfortunately, the group discovered the cruise ship wasn’t docked at the port in Gambia as planned because it had to spend another day at sea due to low tides. ABC News 4 reports the passengers spent fifteen hours traveling through six countries to make it to the port on Sunday. 

“We have to cross the ferry to get into Senegal,” Campbell told the outlet on Monday, marking their seventh country. “We just learned from the gentleman that the ferry hadn’t been working, but he said no problem, if the ferry is not working we will get another little boat and then pick up a car on the other side. And then once we get on the other side of Senegal, it’s another four-hour drive.” 

In a statement to PEOPLE, Norwegian Cruise Line said, “On the afternoon of March 27, 2024, while the ship was in São Tomé and Príncipe, an African island nation, eight guests who were on the island on a private tour not organized through us missed the last tender back to the vessel, therefore not meeting the all aboard time of 3 p.m. local time."

The statement continued, “While this is a very unfortunate situation, guests are responsible for ensuring they return to the ship at the published time, which is communicated broadly over the ship’s intercom, in the daily print communication and posted just before exiting the vessel.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

The cruise line added that guests are “responsible for any necessary travel arrangements” to meet the ship at the next port and that they had each of their passports “delivered to the local port agents to retrieve” when they missed their all aboard call.

The group was finally able to catch up to the vessel. They reached Dakar, Senegal, its next port, on Monday night, PEOPLE confirmed.

After what they'd been through, Jill told NBC News in a story published on Tuesday, "We are considering whether or not we are going to board the ship. We believe there was a basic duty of care that they had forgotten about, so it does concern us." While she allowed that Norwegian technically followed protocol, she says, "I believe that they really forgot that they are people working in the hospitality industry and really the safety and well-being of the customers should be their first priority."

On Tuesday morning, the eight passengers, less the person who had fallen ill and later safely returned home to the United States, chose to board the cruise. Norwegian confirmed the news to PEOPLE in a statement.

"Despite the series of unfortunate events outside of our control, we will be reimbursing these eight guests for their travel costs from Banjur, Gambia to Dakar, Senegal. We remain in communication with the guests and are providing additional information as it becomes available,"

The Norwegian Dawn departed from Cape Town, South Africa, on March 20 for a 21-day trip that will end in Barcelona on April 10.

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Who is Don Hankey, the billionaire whose insurance firm provided Trump a $175 million bond payment?

By Aimee Picchi

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: April 3, 2024 / 11:04 AM EDT / CBS News

Former President Donald Trump and his co-defendants in his New York civil fraud case on Monday posted a bond of $175 million , following a judge's ruling that they had for years misrepresented the value of his properties. The bond is underwritten by an insurance company run by a billionaire, who got his start making high-risk, high-interest loans to car buyers with poor credit.

Don Hankey, the executive whose company provided the bond, is a little-known mogul who built his $7.4 billion fortune through car dealerships and providing subprime auto loans, according to Forbes magazine . That makes him richer than Trump, whom Forbes estimates is worth $6.4 billion, including his multibillion stake in the newly public Trump Media & Technology Group.

Hankey, who told The Associated Press he has never met nor spoken with Trump, said his Knight Speciality Insurance company provided both cash and bonds as collateral for Trump's appellate bond. That bond is now essentially a placeholder that will guarantee payment if the judgment against Trump is upheld on appeal. 

"This is what we do at Knight Insurance, and we're happy to do this for anyone who needs a bond," Hankey told the wire service. 

Hankey didn't immediately respond to CBS MoneyWatch's request for comment.

Who is Don Hankey?

Hankey, 80, got started in the auto industry when his father bought a stake in a Ford dealership in Los Angeles in 1958. A teenager at the time, Hankey started out washing cars during the summer, but later stepped into a salesman role, he told the Los Angeles Business Journal last year. 

While Hankey was studying finance at the University of Southern California, his father died and his family lost its stake in the car dealership. But a few years after Hankey's graduation, his family repurchased the dealership with a $250,000 loan.

How did Hankey get into the car loans business?

After buying the dealership, Hankey courted buyers that other car sellers often rejected: subprime borrowers. His dealership provided the loans, unlike other car dealers which typically turn to banks to provide financing for auto purchases. 

Hankey told the Los Angeles Business Journal that his showroom was often filled with people arguing over terms they believed were unfavorable.

"We had beefs going on, and at the same time people coming in, buying cars," Hankey said . "But it all worked. And you would think that somebody buying a car would hate to see somebody else arguing about a payment, but it didn't seem to matter."

What other businesses does Hankey own?

Hankey expanded beyond auto dealerships when he realized that there was demand for subprime auto loans outside of Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles Business Journal. 

He incorporated Westlake Financial Services, which Forbes said now works with more than 30,000 car dealerships across the U.S. to provide auto loans to people with poor credit histories. Westlake is now part of the Hankey Group, which also oversees other financial services companies, including Knight Insurance Group, the enterprise that provided Trump's bond. 

Is Hankey a Trump supporter?

Hankey told Bloomberg News he voted for Trump, but said that his support for the real estate developer didn't play into his decision to extend the bond. 

"Yes, I voted for him in the past, but this is a business deal and this is what we do," Hankey told the publication. "I have never met Donald Trump, nor talked to him on the phone."

Hankey has been a generous donor to political candidates, almost exclusively Republicans, including Donald Trump. Leading up to the 2016 presidential election, Hankey and his wife gave $80,000 to the Trump Victory Fund, with $5,400 going to the Trump campaign and the rest to the Republican National Committee, according to Open Secrets.

Axos Bank, in which Hankey is one of the biggest non-institutional investors, provided the funding to refinance Trump Tower and take out a $100 million loan in 2022, when the Trump Organization's real estate valuations were under scrutiny due to the New York fraud case , Bloomberg reported. Hankey told the publication he wasn't aware of the deal until after it was completed.

How does the $175 million bond work?

Appeal bonds are used when a defendant appeals a court ruling, which essentially freezes enforcement of the financial judgment as the legal process continues.

Insurers typically provide the bond after they have proof of collateral and charge a fee, which ranges from 1% to 2% of the bond amount, according to insurance broker NFP. That means Trump could be paying as much as $3.5 million on an annual basis for the bond guarantee from Knight Insurance. 

If Trump wins his appeal of the ruling, he won't have to pay the state anything and will get his money back.

"As promised, President Trump has posted bond. He looks forward to vindicating his rights on appeal and overturning this unjust verdict," said one of Trump's lawyers, Alina Habba.

—The Associated Press and CBS News' Dan Klaidman contributed to this report.

• Donald Trump

Aimee Picchi is the associate managing editor for CBS MoneyWatch, where she covers business and personal finance. She previously worked at Bloomberg News and has written for national news outlets including USA Today and Consumer Reports.

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I'll only allow clapping on a solar eclipse flight: Here's what it was like onboard

Millions of people across North America watched the total solar eclipse Monday, but I was one of the few in a lucky group to see it from the sky.

It was certainly a different perspective. On the ground, the main event is, of course, seeing the moon fully obscure the sun. But from the sky, the real show was seeing the shadow of totality sweep over the landscape below, to watch as street lights flickered on in that temporary darkness while daylight reigned just over the edge.

I flew as a guest of Delta Air Lines on flight 1010 from Dallas-Fort Worth to Detroit, and we encountered the experience of totality for about four minutes over southeastern Missouri.

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Because the eclipse itself was only visible to those on the south side of the plane, the team at Delta planned ahead and got special permission to execute turns during totality so everyone onboard could see – about two minutes per side.

“For us it’s a normal flight. For this flight just knowing where the sun was going to be, just trying to maximize the opportunities for the passengers,” Alex Howell, chief standards captain for Delta’s Airbus A320 fleet and pilot in charge on flight 1010 told me just after we landed in Detroit. “It was great. It really went off without a hitch.”

Onboard, the mood was festive. I can’t remember the last time I was on a flight where there was applause after almost every announcement, at the start of the takeoff roll, again when we lifted off the ground, and once more when we landed. Usually I’m not a fan of this kind of clapping, but for the solar eclipse, I could make the exception.

Delta’s representatives told me it was a cross-company effort to get the flight I was on, and another eclipse special from Austin, off the ground. It was a good reminder that the miracle of flight can unlock many other experiences for passengers.

How the flights were planned

According to Chris Clisham, a Delta flight superintendent, the first step in planning these special eclipse flights was determining the timing.

“What went into it is seeing where we wanted to intersect that shadow, where we wanted to see that totality and work backward from there,” he said. “Then we backed up and said, ‘OK, what kind of departure time do we need for that?’”

After that, the planning happened much like any other flight, although some extra, advanced communication with air traffic control was involved.

“The planning was, on one hand, routine, what we do for every flight, every day sort of a thing, but on the other hand, as we got closer to the event today, the focus became on cloud cover,” Warren Weston, Delta's lead meteorologist, told me in Dallas before we boarded. 

It was cloudy as we departed Dallas, and even at cruising altitude (ha!) there was some wispy coverage, but it broke just before the moon and sun did their tango.

What else you can see from a plane

Of course, eclipses are fairly rare events, but they’re hardly the only natural wonders visible from commercial flights.

Mark Vanhoenacker , a Boeing 787 pilot for British Airways and author of “Skyfaring” and “Imagine a City,” told me flying is a constant reminder of the magic going on in the sky.

“The northern lights are, I think they’re probably the most amazing thing we see from the flight deck,” he said. “It’s such an amazing thing and they shimmer and they kind of have this quality of milk landing in coffee, they have this very slow motion that you almost can’t perceive until you look away from them and then you look back and it’s different.” 

Vanhoenacker said auroras and eclipses aren’t the only spectacles out the window of a plane, either.

“I joke in ‘Skyfaring’ that we kind of run out of wishes. You see so many shooting stars. It’s a challenge to maintain our childhood excitement at that kind of thing, about all the wonders of flying, really,” he said. “One of the things that’s most special about flying is being above the clouds. A lot of people are not going to see the eclipse. One of the best ways to ensure you see any phenomena of the night sky is to be above the clouds.”

What it was like onboard

That idea of nearly guaranteed eclipse sighting was certainly a draw for passengers on flight 1010.

Many told me they had seen eclipses before and wanted to get a new perspective, and the mood onboard was friendly and celebratory – I, again, note all the clapping.

Clisham made a prediction ahead of the flight that turned out to be true: “The biggest difference is you’re going to see all the window shades up for once,” he said. “Everyone’s going to want to look out the window.” 

As I sit in an aisle seat writing this on another flight where almost all the shades are down, I wish my fellow travelers would bring Vanhoenacker’s sense of wonder to every flight rather than just those that are marketed for what’s going on outside the window. Even if it’s not an eclipse, there’s always a lot to see from 35,000 feet. 

The reporter on this story received access to this flight from Delta Air Lines. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]