Travel Tips & Tricks
Preparing For Takeoff
The adventure typically begins with travel to the city where your program starts! Most of our students will fly, but those living locally or close by may opt to drive. Either way works for us! Typically our students fly alone (without a parent), knowing that a WA Trip Leader will be waiting for them upon their arrival.
Each program at WA has specific travel windows that we ask students to arrive and depart within to ensure we do not end up spending full days at the airport. Your specific travel information is available on your CampInTouch account.
Travel Day Tips
- While all WA programs are device-free, we do advise students travel with a phone in the case of travel hiccups. We will collect and store all electronic devices (phones, smart watches, e-readers, etc.) upon arrival.
NOTE: Digital cameras or GoPros are welcome and encouraged! - Upon their arrival, you (the parent) will receive a phone call from the Trip Leader and your student confirming their arrival.
- Student cell phones will be returned on departure day with time for charging before boarding their flight.
- Please wear your 2026 Wilderness Adventures shirt on travel day! Everyone in your group (including your Trip Leaders) will be wearing the same shirt, making it easier to find your peers!
NOTE: If you live outside of the United States, your Trip Leaders will have your t-shirt for you upon your arrival - Be sure to pack things like medications, your toiletry kit, water, snacks, chapstick, and maybe even an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bag in the case that the arrival of your checked bag is delayed.
- If your student will be making a connection, we encourage you to plan a connection time that is longer than necessary; at least 2 hours. This will minimize any disruption caused by delayed flights.
- Policies regarding minors traveling alone vary among airlines. Please consult with your airline of choice directly or reach out to Aspen Travel for more information. More complete unaccompanied minor travel information.
- If your child is traveling as an unaccompanied minor, please note that patience is essential: only ONE Trip Leader is assigned to meet all unaccompanied minors for that program. With many students arriving in close succession and often in different terminals, it can take time for the appointed unaccompanied minor Trip Leader to reach each child. Understanding this in advance helps ensure a smoother and less stressful start to the experience. We will provide the airline-required unaccompanied minor pick-up information (name, phone number, and address) one week prior to your child’s trip.
Aspen Travel Agency
WA highly recommends the services of Aspen Travel in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Aspen Travel has been assisting WA families since 1977 and their professional team specializes in high-quality group travel service.
Contact Aspen Travel
800-223-4059 or 307-733-7893
[email protected]
Aspen Travel can enhance your experience by:
- Notifying WA in the event of a last-minute change, delay, missed connection, or other issue
- Finding the best fare within your arrival and departure window
- Reviewing your itinerary with the WA team before purchasing
- Coordinating flights with other students traveling from the same area
- Assisting you in resolving any problems during travel
*Please note that you are not required to use the services of Aspen Travel. You may book your travel independently if you prefer!
