Why join a group trip? Who are they even for? Pros and cons as a budget traveler: How to decide if this method of travel is right for you.
“Why would I pay all that money for a group trip when I could just go alone and figure it out myself?”
A common take on the internet… and I get it, I used to have the exact same thoughts. As a budget traveler, someone who literally travels as cheap as possible, even the lower price tags I was seeing for these trips couldn’t be justified. I never would have considered it at all if Worldpackers hadn’t reached out to me one day, asking if I’d be interested in hosting a group on one of their new Epic Trips. I’ve been on both sides of the coin now, so here are my honest reflections, pros vs cons, and advice for anyone wondering if a group trip would be “worth it” for themselves.
What type of person are these trips for?
As I started spreading the word about my first group trip, I had conversations with my audience, other creators, and Worldpackers representatives to feel out what kind of person might be interested in an experience like this (the answer is different for every trip— some are based around adventure travel, some are meditation retreats… hone your interests into basically any niche you can imagine and you’ll find a group of like-minded people making a plan somewhere).
In general, a group trip might be meant for you if:
You want to travel but aren’t sure how to start.
You’re looking for a “stepping stone” to help ease into the practice of solo traveling.
You want to make connections with like-minded people on your travels.
You like to ‘go with the flow’ when you travel, without worrying about an itinerary or logistics
Different types of group trips: finding & choosing the right one
Interested in seeing what’s out there? There are countless platforms advertising countless experiences. A quick google search brings me to companies such as G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, TrovaTrip, and more. I don’t personally have experience with any of these brands, so be sure to read plenty of reviews and do thorough research before booking. But I can tell you about Worldpackers Epic Trips.
One of my favorite things about this company is their ethos— it’s what really cemented my decision to go with them. As you browse their trips, you’ll notice that each one has an element of education, sustainability, or cultural immersion. They’re big on conscious travel, which is important to me. Their prices are comparatively affordable (depending on the destination/activities), payment plans are available, and they offer 24/7 support from booking until the end of the trip. I was kept updated and informed about every part of the process.
Another great way to find the right trip for you is to take to social media. Search something along the lines of “group trip” and find a creator in your demographic who’s promoting a trip that interests you. Check out their profile, send them a message, and see if you vibe!
Pros and Cons:
Alright, I’ll give it to you straight. Here’s what I think the pros and cons are if you choose a group trip over a solo trip. Keep in mind that these are my raw opinions; as someone who has had all kinds of experiences solo traveling, and one amazing experience on a group trip!
Pros:
Your itinerary is handled for you. You’ll be provided accommodations (and sometimes meals). No need to stress over organizing, activities, or logistics.
You’ll get to connect with like-minded people who love travel as much as you do (hello future travel buddies!). There’s always someone to share a chat or a laugh with, and you won’t have to navigate a new place alone.
This is probably one of the safest ways to ‘solo’ travel— especially if you’re going international. You’ll have 24/7 support (at least, you will with Worldpackers) as well as your host and fellow trip members looking out for you on the ground.
You’ll end up trying and learning things you never would have imagined. There’s a huge benefit to having a local guide, and you’ll get to see and do a lot in a short amount of time, often for a cheaper price than going on your own.
Someone is always available to take your photo :)
Cons:
You’re not really on your own agenda. If you prefer to plan your days spontaneously, you might feel limited in the structure of these trips and in moving with the group.
They can get pricey. Look closely at what each experience includes, and bear in mind that almost all of them will require you buy your own plane tickets/transportation separately.
A good group dynamic isn’t guaranteed. You might not get on with everyone you’re traveling with.
There aren’t always opportunities for alone time, and sleeping arrangements/sharing rooms can get tedious!
At the end of the day…
Whether or not you should sign up for a group trip comes down to the type of person you are, and the type of trip you join. Know yourself, do your research, and if you’re up for it, take a leap of faith! It might just change your entire life.
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