Activities
Can I opt out of certain activities if I want to?
Yes. In most situations the itineraries provided are flexible so as to enable you to build your own holiday.
The trip leader may be able to help you make any specific alternative arrangements - please notify us at the time of booking. The only exception to this rule is when we are trekking, or travelling from one place to the next night's stop.
Please note anything organised outside of the group activity will be at your own cost.
How difficult is the trek on my trip?
For all travellers we recommend that you check out the Physical and Culture Shock Rating that applies to the trip you are considering and make your own judgement according to your fitness levels.
The rating for each trip is provided in the 'is this trip right for you?' information box. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search' which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'.
Take note of the Trip Code for future reference. Once you are on the trip page, scroll down to the Physical Rating and check out the rating. For more details on the rating system, click on 'rating definitions' or refer directly to the fine print.
TOP
Amenities
Are there western toilets available?
Some trips have regular access to western toilets while others don't. As a general rule, the more remote the place the less likely you are to find western bathroom facilities.
Arrival Information
Are airport transfers included in the trip price? If not, how much will a taxi cost from the airport?
Transfers are generally not included in the price for most The Backpacker Co trips.
Many The Backpacker Co Independent trips are the exception however as they often do include an arranged transfer.
Please refer directly to your Trip Notes to find out whether a transfer is included in your trip. In order to obtain Trip Notes please visit the trip specific page on the web.
If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'.
Once in the trip facts screen, you will see the option to download the Trip Notes. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'.
Take note of the Trip Code for future reference. If a transfer is not included, The Backpacker Co are able to arrange transfers for you at an additional cost. Prices for transfers as well as pre and post accommodation are available at the back of our brochure. Alternatively, instructions for catching a taxi and guidelines to the expected cost are provided in your Trip Notes.
What time can I check in?
Generally check-in in Asia is midday, for Australasia & Europe it is around 2.00pm. For specific details, as there are exceptions, please refer to your Trip Notes for details. In order to obtain Trip Notes please visit the trip specific facts page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'.
Once in the trip facts screen, you will see the option to download the Trip Notes. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.
TOP
Travelling with Children
Can I take my young children on The Backpacker Co trips?
We do not accept children under 12 years of age on The Backpacker Co group trips. Please refer to our The Backpacker Co Family or The Backpacker Co Independent itineraries which have many options suitable for younger children.
If there is a group of 3 consisting of 2 adults with 1 child, it is often not possible to obtain triple rooms.
In such cases, one of the adults will share with the child and the other adult will share with another adult passenger in the group.
TOP
Flights
Are flights included?
The prices you see on our website and in our brochures are quoted 'land only'. We recognise that everybody has different airline preferences and affiliations and may choose to book their international flight with their travel agent, directly with an airline or via an online site.
In Australia, New Zealand and the UK, we also offer the option to purchase international air tickets with The Backpacker Co through our call center or our retail stores.
TOP
Group Trip Information
How many people are on my trip?
You can check out your group size on this web site. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference. Once you are on the trip page, click on 'dates & availability' or go straight to the 'Book This Trip' and look for your departure date! Check out the number of spots available and that will tell you how many travellers are already booked. Please note if the availability advises 7+ then there could be from 0-4 people booked on the trip. Our, Group Adventures have an average group size of 10 people.
I don't want to travel in a group. Do you have set itineraries for individuals?
Yes, our The Backpacker Co Independent itineraries offer fabulous trips for those not wishing to join a group. Find out more about The Backpacker Co Independent trips on the web. To find out what The Backpacker Co Independent trips are on offer - simply select 'trip styles', scroll down to The Backpacker Co Independent and click on 'search for trips in this style
I am over 60 - am I too old for your trips?
The Backpacker Co group adventures are designed for travellers of all ages - we seem to have found a travelling style that suits all ages - assuming you are fit and healthy - and take travellers from 12 to 80 (12-17 year olds must be accompanied by an adult). The trips work brilliantly, with great group dynamics and social interaction. The majority of travellers are in the 25 to 45 age range. The Backpacker Co Basix is different - the majority of travellers are in the 18 to 30 age range.
Who will be my leader?
This depends on the trip. The Backpacker Co's Group Adventures are led by a range of Western leaders, who have a passion for the destination, and local leaders who have worked with The Backpacker Co for a long time and know their own country intimately. Essentially, it is whoever works best for that destination and trip. Please refer to the Trip Notes for your particular trip, as this will vary from trip to trip - particularly with The Backpacker Co Independent. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip facts page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'. Once in the trip facts screen, you will see the option to download the Trip Notes. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.
Is it possible to make any changes to the itinerary of my group trip?
No. It is not possible to make any changes to our group trip itineraries. Our Independent trips may be able to offer you some flexibility upon request. Find out more about The Backpacker Co Independent trips on the web.
While on my group trip can I add in an extra night en route?
No. It is not possible to make any changes to our group trip itineraries. Our Independent trips may be able to offer you some flexibility upon request. Find out more about The Backpacker Co Independent trips on the web.
TOP
Local Payment
What is a local payment?
Most of our trips require a compulsory local payment, which is part of the contract with you (the customer) and The Backpacker Co Travel Pty Ltd. This amount is the final payment for your trip and is to be paid in the specified currency, in cash to your leader upon arrival. The local payment is non-refundable, and is considered part of the total trip payment.
Why did The Backpacker Co introduce local payments?
It is expensive to transfer funds to many countries - so by making a Local Payment you help us keep your costs low.
What is the Local Payment used for?
The Local Payment is used for paying for local services such as hotels and transport.
Can I pay the Local Payment before I leave?
No, as the money is used to pay for local services these cannot be paid elsewhere.
Is the Local Payment for a food kitty?
No, the Local Payment will not be used to purchase food. On some Overland trips you will contribute to a Kitty instead of a Local Payment. It funds accommodation, camp meals and activities which the group does as a whole.
What is a Kitty?
On some Overland trips you contribute to a Kitty instead of a Local Payment. The Kitty is a compulsory local payment put into a central fund and overseen by the travellers and the crew. It helps fund accommodation, camp meals and activities which the group does as a whole. The kitty amounts published in the brochure may change. Current Kitty amounts can be found on our website so please check for the up to date Kitty amount 48 hours prior to your trip commencement.
TOP
Pricing Information
Why are your prices so low?
The Backpacker Co Travel recognises many travellers like to build their own holiday while still following a basic itinerary. As a result we offer trips with a mixture of organised activities and free time to do your own thing. However don't fear, value is far more important than price. Look a little deeper and you'll see we do actually include many extra things to make your trip special. The Backpacker Co trips are also run on a twin share basis, so single travellers do not have to pay a single supplement. And because we know the best of what to see and do, we save you money by using your time efficiently.
TOP
Room Types
Can we book a triple room?
All The Backpacker Co trips are organised on a twin share basis. Some places will be able to provide a triple room however the majority of our hotels do not have such rooms available. Triple rooms can never be guaranteed.
Can I book a single room?
You can book pre and post accommodation on a single basis however throughout your The Backpacker Co trip, rooming is organised on a twin share basis.
Safety and Medical Information
I am concerned about the political stability of the country through which my trip will travel?
The Backpacker Co Travel runs trips in keeping with a basic travel safety policy. Should either the relevant consulates and/or our operations groups on the ground deem an area unsafe, trips will be cancelled so as to minimise risks to our groups. Please keep up to date with destination travel advisories as issued by your government's foreign affairs department. The Backpacker Co also provide regular safety updates on the web. This page also provides direct links to relevant embassy travel advisories.
Will refrigeration be available for medicines? eg. Insulin
Availability of refrigeration cannot be guaranteed. As a general rule, many of our city hotels provide access to small fridges however outside of this, especially when trekking or in homestay environments, you cannot rely on access to refrigeration.
What medical and vaccination requirements are there?
Medical and vaccination requirements differ between nations. For detailed recommendations specific to your trip, please refer to your Trip Notes. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip facts page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'. Once on the trip page, you will see the option to download the Trip Notes. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.
I am over 60 - do I need a medical certificate?
The Backpacker Co do not require a medical certificate from travellers over 60. We do however recommend that you observe the Physical and Culture Shock Rating that applies to the trip you are considering, and make your own judgement according to your fitness levels. The rating for each trip is provided on the trip page. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference. Once you are in the trip facts screen, scroll down to the Physical Rating and check out the rating. For more details on the rating system, use 'rating definitions'.
TOP
What to Pack
Can I take a suitcase rather than the recommended back pack?
We strongly advise that you do not bring a suitcase as they are bulky and difficult to carry and can be difficult to secure on trains etc. While your trip may not involve carrying your bags for any great distance, we would still recommend that you bring a backpack or soft bag. Porters are not always available to carry your luggage for you.
Can I store excess luggage at the starting point hotel?
Most starting point hotels can store your excess luggage for you however this is at your own risk. Often a nominal fee is charged for this service. Of course this is only an advantage if your trip is circular, i.e. returning to the starting point.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
Most trips don't but some do. As a general rule, trips that involve trekking or overnight stays in homestays do require a sleeping bag or sheet. Please refer to the packing 'checklist' on your Trip Notes. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.
What clothes and footwear should I take on treks?
Please refer to the packing 'checklist' on your Trip Notes. In order to obtain the Trip Notes for your trip please visit the trip page on the web. If you have the Trip Code, use 'trip search', which you will find on the top right of all our main web pages - enter the code and click 'find matching trips'. If you do not have the Trip Code, select the continent, country & trip (optional) and then click 'find matching trips'. Take note of the Trip Code for future reference.
TOP
Once in a lifetime holidays
How many people in the groups?
We cap our walking trips at 14 particpants and our bike trips at 16 participants. We will run trips with a minimum of 6 participants for our regularly scheduled trips.
Where do your clients come from?
We have a mix of clientele. Our trips are not prohibitively expensive so we get a nice cross section of people, geographically, demographically and socio-economically. Most of our travellers are from the United States with the majority of them coming from the Pacific Northwest. About 15% of our clientele are from Australia, New Zealander, and Canada.
What is the age range of people on the trips?
On average, ages range from early 30’s to mid 60’s with the majority in the 40 to 55 bracket.
What are your clients like?
Many of our trip participants have travelled extensively while others may be on their first overseas trip. Generally, we get fun, easy going and interesting people. People who like to hike or bike and travel with a small group are just that way……Of course, when travelling with a group there is always the chance that there might be someone in the group who is a pain in the backside but that is a relatively rare occurrence. Furthermore, we design the trips to allow everybody time on their own, so if you need a break from someone, you can do so. Finally, if there is someone who really is a problem, our guides have our backing to ask anyone on the trip who really is a problem to leave the trip. Happily, in 14 years of doing trips we have only needed to do this on one occasion.
What about people who suffer from Vertigo?
The paths of the Cinque Terre walk and along the Amalfi coast that we use are safe. Only on a few instances do the paths become particularly narrow, and then only for a short stretch of not more than 10 metres. On these occasions the path traverses across the top of a stone wall that is part of the system of terraces are carved into the coastal hills. On one side of the narrow path is a stone wall that one can use as support and beneath you is a series of terraced vineyards that descend steeply down the hillside.
If you suffer from acute vertigo then there will be some moments during the course of the trip where you will feel uncomfortable. The paths are not overly exposed, however on some occasions those people with vertigo have to look away from the sea to face the inland part of the path in order to negotiate a certain stretch of pathway.
In the Dolomites, there are some exposed wide open stretches of paths that would be difficult to negotiate if you suffer from vertigo.
How many people do you need for a private trip?
We can do a private trip for one person, if that is what you want to do, but of course you will find it expensive. Usually a good number is between six and twelve people. This means your private group benefits from sharing the cost of the trip, while remaining small and flexible. Of course we can also do trips for large groups too!
TOP
Overland Holiday
How many people do you take on your overland trips?
On most of our overland holidays our vehicles carry 24 people in comfortable coach seats. Our local transport overland trips in Egypt and Peru have a maximum of 20 people per Tour Leader.
How long beforehand should I book?
It's difficult to say. The most popular times for overland holidays are from July till February when our overland holidays are usually full. It's advisable to book overland trips at least 3-4 months before departure.
Do you sell flights?
No we do not. Depending on where in the world you are, what time of year you are flying, your route, and how young you are affect flight prices greatly. For example, if you are embarking on gap year travel, prices will be cheaper as you will be eligible for youth fares. Please contact us with the above information about the overland trips you are interested in and we should be able to direct you toward a competitive flight agent. For further information, departure dates, detailed itineraries and list of optional excursions/activities please contact us by one of the methods below and we shall get back to you as promptly as possible.
What is the rest of the group like on your overland trips?
Our overland holiday groups are made up of mainly British, Australians and New Zealanders predominantly in their 20's. Some are on gap year travel and some are older. In Africa it is normal to have a fairly even mix of sexes, however, on our Caravan tour the mix is biased slightly toward females. Expect about half the group to have booked overland holidays on their own and the rest with a friend or in couples.
Why is The Backpacker Co such good value compared to other operators?
We rely mainly on direct sales and we do not subcontract our overland holidays. The office and workshop are combined out of London therefore avoiding unnecessary premises and high rental costs. By being small we also avoid extra staff such as operations manager, marketing manager etc.
How much spending money should I bring?
Again this is a bit difficult to accurately say, but generally on most overland trips we recommend between £120-£140/week. (Our Trans Africa Expedition is significantly less). It depends on the individual and how much you want to eat out in restaurants, drink etc. This amount is separate to the costs of the optional excursions on offer.
Do I need insurance for overland trips?
Definitely! We require everybody to have their own travel insurance on our overland holidays. The insurance we offer covers you for medical, baggage, repatriation, and currency. If you would like any more information regarding insurance then give us a call or email us.
What accommodation is provided?
We use either two person 'A' frame or 'Dome' type tents that are very robust and weather proof. They have an inbuilt ground sheet and mosquito netting on the doors. We tend to stay in either campsites or bush camp in Africa as well as pensions, hostels or budget hotels on our Middle Eastern, Egypt, Peru & South American tours.
How much time do we spend 'on the road'?
On our overland holidays a day normally starts at about 8.00am after breakfast and ends at about 5.30pm; stopping throughout the day for lunch, photo stops, markets or towns to stock up on food and water or have a snack. This breaks up the time spent on the truck into approximately two hour periods. Generally we will be on the road for eight hours on any given driving day on our overland holidays. There will be times when we do spend longer on the roads, but this is rare and then we will sometimes be parked somewhere for several days i.e. Zanzibar 4 days, Victoria Falls 4 days, Olympus 3 days, Dahab 4 days, Cuzco 6 days, Iguazu Falls, 3 days.
What about medical kits and vaccinations?
Each of our trucks carries a comprehensive medical kit, however we do suggest that everyone brings along their own personal kit. Our Pre Departure Dossiers for each tour details what to bring with you on overland trips as well as up to date information in regards to vaccinations and where to get them.
Is there somewhere for my money and valuables during my overland holiday?
Yes, all our vehicles have a safe on board where we recommend that you leave your monies, passport and valuables etc. |
