Travel has always been considered an enriching experience for young people. According to a consumer survey conducted for USTOA, more than 75% of Americans placed value on a teacher‐led educational experience before college. However, before sending their children on a program, parents need to investigate them to make sure they are reliable.
The U.S. Tour Operators Association polled its members who specialize in student travel, and discovered that, while students are focused on fun and education, understandably their parents’ main concerns are safety and security. Accordingly, USTOA has developed a short list of questions parents should ask.
-How long has the company been in business?
Longevity can be one sign that a company has a solid track record of working with students and parents. Members of USTOA must have been in business at least three years under the same management or ownership.
-Does the company carry liability insurance for schools and teachers?
USTOA requires that each of its member companies post a minimum $1 million liability bond. However, many reputable companies will have an umbrella liability policy of at least $10 million, which covers students, teachers and school boards as well as traveling students, chaperones and guides.
-Is the company financially stable?
Membership in professional associations can be one indication. For example, USTOA requires each member company to meet a number of strict requirements, including 18 industry references and posting $1 million in security to protect travelers’ payments and deposits in the unlikely case the company goes out of business.
-Is there a 24‐hour customer service number?
Find out how you can communicate with your child while they’re traveling. Some companies have a 24‐ hour customer service number, while others may have an online diary through their web site where kids can post their comments and itinerary.
-What is the student to chaperone/guide ratio?
Depending on the itinerary, most USTOA student travel companies reported a ratio of 1 to 6 or up to 1 to 10 chaperones or guides per student.
-What is the group size?
Again, according to the poll, most USTOA student travel companies reported group size to range from 10 to 50. It’s important to know your child’s comfort zone. For kids who may be uncomfortable with a larger group, USTOA advises that parents ask whether large groups will be broken up into smaller entities.
