Frequently Asked Questions
Is my child ready to travel without me?
Absolutely. Many of our students are traveling without their parents for the first time. Our experienced U.S. Teacher-Leaders and local Program Directors provide guidance, encouragement, and support every step of the way, helping students build confidence while ensuring they feel safe, supported, and included throughout the journey.
How do parents stay informed during the trip?
Parents receive regular updates throughout the program, including photos and messages shared by Teacher-Leaders through private Facebook or WhatsApp groups. While students are encouraged to stay present during activities, families can expect frequent updates so they can follow along from home.
What happens in an emergency?
The health, safety, and well-being of our students is our highest priority. Every program is supported by experienced U.S. Teacher-Leaders, a dedicated local Program Director, trusted local partners, and senior GCP staff in the U.S. who are available 24/7.
Because we work with an established network of local hotels, transportation providers, guides, medical facilities, and in-country partners, we are able to respond quickly and make informed decisions if an unexpected situation arises. If an emergency occurs, families are contacted promptly, kept informed throughout the situation, and supported every step of the way.
What is an average group size?
Our programs average approximately 25 students, although some groups may be smaller or larger depending on the destination and program requirements.
How many leaders/chaperones are on each program?
For school group programs, the number of Teacher-Leaders is determined by each school's policies and requirements. Most schools travel with approximately an 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio, although this may vary based on the school's preferences and the age of the students.
For our Teen Summer Travel Programs, we maintain approximately a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
In addition to our U.S. Teacher-Leaders, every program is accompanied by a dedicated local Program Director who meets the group upon arrival and remains with them throughout the journey. Program Directors manage all daily logistics, transportation, reservations, and operations while sharing their local knowledge and culture. This allows our Teacher-Leaders to focus on what matters most—supporting, mentoring, and caring for their students
What is the age range on programs?
For school group programs, each program is privately organized by the participating school/group. Therefore, the teachers or school determines the grade levels and age range of the students traveling.
Our Teen Summer Travel Programs are designed for students 13–18 years old, bringing together middle and high school students from across the United States.
Can my child enroll on a Teen Summer Travel Program by themselves, or with a friend?
Absolutely! Students are welcome to enroll on their own or with one or more friends.
Many of our summer travelers join independently and quickly build lasting friendships with fellow students from across the United States. Others choose to enroll with friends from home and experience the adventure together. Either way, our Teacher-Leaders work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where every student feels comfortable, connected, and part of the group from day one.
How does rooming work?
For school group programs, rooming arrangements are determined by the participating school and Teacher-Leaders. Students typically room with other students of the same sex, with 2–4 students per room, depending on the hotel and destination.
For our Teen Summer Travel Programs, students also room with other students of the same sex, with 2–4 students per room, depending on the hotel. Every student is guaranteed their own bed—we never ask students to share beds.
To help create a welcoming and inclusive group experience, roommate assignments change at each hotel whenever possible. This gives students the opportunity to get to know more of their fellow travelers, build new friendships, and return home feeling connected to the entire group, not just the students they started the trip with.
What if my child gets homesick?
A little homesickness is completely normal, especially during the first couple of days. Our experienced Teacher-Leaders are excellent at helping students feel comfortable, make new friends, stay engaged, and quickly become part of the group. Most students settle in quickly as they become immersed in the experience. We will also cover this at our pre-travel meetings, and share tips for both students and parents to minimize homesickness.
What if my child has health, allergy, or dietary restrictions?
Approximately 60 days before departure, families complete a comprehensive health form where they can share medical conditions, allergies, dietary restrictions, medications, and any other important information.
Our team carefully reviews every health form in advance, communicates dietary needs with restaurants and partners throughout the program, and ensures our Teacher-Leaders and Program Directors are fully informed. We encourage families to schedule a one-on-one conversation with their Teacher-Leaders before departure to discuss any concerns and help us provide the best possible care for their child.
What is your cell phone policy?
For school group programs, we follow the individual school's cell phone policy.
For our Teen Summer Travel Programs, students are welcome to use their phones during designated free time, such as at the hotel or during scheduled breaks. Phones should not be used during program activities (except for taking photos) and are not permitted during meals.
Our goal is to help students be fully present in the experience—engaging with the people, culture, and destinations around them rather than looking down at a screen. We want students building friendships, participating in activities, and creating memories they'll remember long after they return home.
How do I enroll?
Simply complete the online enrollment form found on each program itinerary page and submit your initial deposit. Your place on the program is secured once your enrollment and deposit are received. Programs fill on a first-come, first-served basis.
Do I need a passport or visa?
A valid passport is required for all international programs. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
If your destination requires a visa, or if you are not a U.S. citizen, you are responsible for obtaining any required travel documents before departure.
We recommend applying for or renewing your passport as early as possible. Visit the U.S. Department of State website for current passport requirements and application information.
Should my child bring a copy of their passport?
Yes. Please provide a printed copy for your Teacher-Leaders, leave another copy with someone at home, and keep a digital copy stored on your child's phone.
How much spending money should my child bring?
This varies by destination and your family's preference. Students generally only need spending money for lunches, snacks, beverages, and souvenirs. Your Teacher-Leaders will discuss recommended amounts during the pre-departure meetings.
Should my child bring a credit or debit card?
Many families find a debit or credit card to be the easiest option for travel. We recommend contacting your bank before departure to notify them of your travel dates and discuss any international transaction fees.
What cell phone plan should we purchase?
Contact your mobile carrier before departure to discuss international travel plans. Most major carriers offer affordable international add-on packages.
Will there be Wi-Fi?
Most hotels provide complimentary Wi-Fi. Availability in public areas and while traveling between destinations may vary.
What are the best apps for staying in touch?
We recommend WhatsApp for communicating while abroad. Families will also be invited to a private Facebook or WhatsApp group where Teacher-Leaders regularly share updates and photos throughout the program.
What should my child pack?
You'll receive a detailed packing list designed for your program about 90 days before departure, and your Teacher-Leaders will review packing recommendations during the pre-departure meetings.
What size luggage can my child bring?
Most airlines allow one checked suitcase and one carry-on. We recommend bringing a backpack as the carry-on instead of a rolling suitcase. Students should be able to comfortably manage all of their own luggage throughout the journey.
Please check directly with your airline once flights are assigned, as baggage allowances and size restrictions vary. Please note that checked bag fees charged by the airline are the responsibility of each traveler and are paid directly to the airline at check-in or when checking in online, depending on the airline's policies.
How much can the suitcase weigh?
We recommend keeping checked luggage under 44 pounds to allow room for souvenirs while helping avoid overweight baggage fees. Airlines typically charge additional fees for bags over 50 pounds.
Please check your airline's baggage policy for exact baggage limits and fees.
When will we receive flight information?
Electronic airline tickets are typically distributed approximately 45-30 days before departure.
What if my child needs to travel as an Unaccompanied Minor?
Some students on our Teen Summer Travel Programs fly from their local airport to a designated hub airport, where they meet their Teacher-Leader before the international flight.
If your child is required to travel as an Unaccompanied Minor on their domestic flight, families are responsible for contacting the airline directly to arrange the service and pay any applicable fees. Unaccompanied Minor policies and age requirements vary by airline.
If you have questions about your child's flight arrangements or whether Unaccompanied Minor service is recommended, our team is happy to help guide you through the process.
What type of power adapter is needed?
A universal travel adapter is recommended for all international programs. Additional guidance will be provided during the pre-departure meetings and included on your packing list.
What vaccinations are recommended?
We recommend consulting your physician or healthcare provider to ensure your child is current on any recommended vaccinations for the countries they will be visiting.
When are the pre-departure meetings?
Teacher-Leaders begin hosting online pre-departure meetings approximately 3–4 months before departure. These meetings cover flights, packing, safety, health information, cultural expectations, communication, spending money, and everything students and families need to feel prepared and excited for their journey.
Still have questions?
We're always happy to help. Please contact us anytime, and we'd be glad to connect you with one of our Teacher-Leaders or an alumni family so you can learn more about the Global Citizen Program experience firsthand.
