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What should you ask your school tour provider before booking?
Ask about safety checks, risk assessments, payment schedules, insurance, and how the itinerary supports your curriculum goals. Confirm what’s included in the price, cancellation terms, and 24/7 emergency support. Request multiple quotes for different group sizes and check SEND and dietary provisions. These questions help you book a safe, educational trip with confidence.
Planning a school trip is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching, but it comes with responsibility. Choosing the right school trip provider ensures your students have a safe, educational and memorable experience. Before you book, here are the key questions to ask.
Why start with the right provider?
Your provider should understand your curriculum goals and practical needs. They’ll help you design an itinerary that works for your students and your school. Start early – most Party Leaders book 9–12 months in advance to allow families time to budget and pay.
Questions to ask:
- Are you an accredited school tour operator and a member of recognised industry bodies?
- Will I have a dedicated Regional Account Manager to guide me through planning and amendments?
- Can you share examples of similar curriculum-based trips and references from other schools?
- How do you support risk assessments and safeguarding?
“I would highly recommend Travelbound for your next school trip. With a high attention to detail and expert tour management staff, you will be in great hands. You can feel secure in the knowledge that your trip will be expertly planned and expectations exceeded. We have had a number of successful trips at affordable prices. Great company!”
– Bishop’s Hatfield Girls’ School
How to handle quotes
Once you’ve chosen your destination and dates, request a no-obligation quote. Most providers turn quotes around in 24–48 hours, but flights can take longer. Ask for multiple quotes based on different group sizes – this helps if numbers change later.
Questions to ask:
- What exactly is included in the price? Flights, transfers, meals, excursions?
- Are flight times and baggage allowances confirmed?
- What accommodation options are available – full board, half board or room only?
- What is the payment schedule? Can parents pay monthly?
- For long-haul trips, how much extra time is needed for deposits and balances?
Reviewing costs and planning ahead
Before you share a price with parents, check the full cost against your school’s requirements. Add contingency money for extras like meals, local transport or museum fees. Confirm staff cover costs and any damage deposits for accommodation. Your provider can help prepare documents for SLT approval.
Top tip:
On a tight budget? Travelling by coach can reduce costs and give you flexibility with your own transport.
The essential checklist
When speaking to your provider, cover these areas:
Safety and safeguarding
- How do you manage risk assessments?
- What are the recommended teacher-to-student ratios?
- How are accommodation and transport safety checked?
Insurance and cancellation
- Is school travel insurance included?
- What does it cover – medical, baggage, trip delay?
- What are the cancellation terms for individuals and the group?
Itinerary and learning outcomes
- How does the itinerary link to your curriculum?
- Are worksheets or pre-visit packs provided?
- Can timings be adjusted on the day?
Payments and admin
- What deposit dates and payment schedule apply?
- Can parents pay in instalments online?
- How are price changes handled if numbers drop?
SEND and dietary needs
- How is SEND provision managed?
- Can dietary requirements be confirmed in advance?
Emergency support
- Is 24/7 emergency assistance available?
- Who makes decisions if plans change?
- What is the process for medical incidents?
Visas and compliance
- Will you provide guidance on passports and visas?
- Can you issue letters for consulates or airlines?
A simple booking flow
- Research providers early to match your destination and curriculum.
- Request quotes for different group sizes and meal options.
- Agree your price to parents, including contingency.
- Secure SLT approval with provider support.
- Launch to families with clear payment plans.
- Prepare risk assessments and pre-trip materials.
- Travel with confidence, supported by 24/7 assistance.
“I have used other travel companies in the past, Travelbound is by far the best. Easily contactable staff, questions answered timeously and very competitive pricing.”
– Oban High School
With over 30 years of experience supporting UK schools, our Travelbound team are well placed to support your students’ next curriculum tour. Use our online enquiry form or call the team on 01273 244572.
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