Traveling is life’s great educator. As Saint Augustine once said, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”   The world is a big place and, for good reason, many people leave the US to see what is far afield. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, there are also many, so many awesome places to see right here in the good ole’ U.S. of A. From Savannah Georgia to Seattle Washington!

Unfortunately, many parents are hesitant to let their kids travel, for fear of their safety. If you watch the news regularly, it’s easy to see why. However, the truth of the matter is traveling has never been safer! With the developments in technology and our certified organizers and chaperones, you can sleep easy knowing your student is safe in our hands. Here are our safety tips & advice for educators and parents.

Cross Off the Little Things:

The lion’s share of travel complications can be avoided by taking a few simple precautions before you ever leave. The old line, “failing to prepare is preparing to fail” is extra applicable in regards to traveling. Here is our quick do’s and don’ts.

Travel Insurance: Whether you get it through Gerber Tours or one of many insurance companies, travel insurance is the most handiest “break in case of emergency” lifeline you can have when traveling. Chances are you’ll never use it, but that’s a good thing.

Notify Your Bank: This is typically an international travel tip. Nevertheless, many banks will freeze your debit and credit card if it is used in a state they don’t think you live in.

Pack According to Your Destination: This may seem overly simple, but many times people are so excited about their trip, they forget to consider the weather!

Organize an Orientation:

The point of traveling is to see new places and have new experiences. However, it is very helpful to know the people you’re traveling with a little bit before you go. An orientation also gives educators an opportunity to lay down the expectations and have students sign a “conduct contract.” We highly recommend a conduct contract for educators as it sets the tone for the trip to come. Giving students guidelines and potential consequences can help squelch their innermost mischievous selves.

Many kids will have never left their home state and an orientation acts as a briefing, giving them an idea of what to expect. During the orientations, educators can go over some the activities, as well as in the procedures for checking in and out of wherever you’ll be staying. In our experience, the more you can grease the wheels of what students will be doing, the better.

Create A System:

There is a reason why the “buddy system” is still used today. Thanks to technology and Gerber Tours, the buddy system has been taken to a whole new level with their travel app. The Gerber Tours travel app is a lifesaver and worry-killer all in one. Parents, educators and students alike have access, through the app, to itineraries, where they are staying, contact info and even their exact location! This app truly takes any trepidation or worry that educators or parents may have about sending their kids out on their first great adventure.

An education isn’t complete with just books and exercises. Students need real-life experience to get the most out of their education. Gerber Tours has been safely and successfully expanding the minds of young people for over 45 years. So check out our site and come on an adventure!

By Kellar Ellsworth