How to Plan a Field Trip

Want to create a unique, hands-on learning experience for your class? Going on field trips offers a fun and exciting way to apply knowledge to real-life scenarios and make memories at different places around your community. Follow these tips to create an organized, well-planned schedule with safe and reliable transportation.

1. Select a School Trip Location

Brainstorm a list of local places you’d like to go with your class. Do you want to visit a library, museum, nature park, farm or zoo? Ensure the destinations are well-suited for the ages and learning abilities of your students, especially with elementary school grade levels. 

2. Align the Trip With Your Curriculum

Research the engaging and informative activities a location offers. Set clear learning objectives so your students and chaperones know what to expect and can stay accountable throughout the experience.

3. Contact the Site for Availability and Prices

Discuss schedules and availability with the location. Ask if they offer discounted rates and ways to save on certain days when larger groups and classes want to take a field trip.

4. Request Permission From Your Administrator

Create a detailed plan of your itinerary, how the experience aligns with your curriculum and how much the class trip will cost. Get approval from your administrator and ensure the scheduled day won’t conflict with any mandatory school activities. 

5. Get Signed Permission Slips and Health Forms

Let your class and the parents know about the upcoming event. Share if students need to wear hats and sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toed walking shoes. Inform students to pack a lunch and bring cash to cover expenses if necessary. Send permission slips home and request signed health documentation as needed. 

6. Arrange for Supervision and Ask for Volunteers

Encourage volunteers to sign up early so you can plan a month or two in advance and make the trip as great as possible. Feel free to arrange a meeting with all the chaperones to discuss expectations and guidelines. Answer questions and share a point of contact so everyone knows who to communicate with in certain situations or an emergency. 

7. Plan the Schedule and Reserve Your Transportation

Finalize your itinerary with the times you want to gather your class supplies, load everyone onto your rental buses, reach your destination, complete certain activities, eat lunch or snacks, take restroom breaks and arrive back at school.

To find the best rates for rental school buses or charter buses, search the directory from BusRates. Or, submit a quote request to discover pricing options today!