How To Organize a Large Group Travel Trip

Organizing a large group travel trip can be a cumbersome process. How can a volunteer organizer keep track of all the details it takes to successfully execute a group travel plan?

Here are some tips to help you handle the logistics of organizing a trip for your large group.

Set Clear Limitations

Don’t drive yourself insane by trying to fulfill everyone’s desires. Set some clear boundaries at the beginning of the trip planning process to reduce frustration.

• Limit the number of travelers. Extra travelers can complicate prearranged accommodations like bus seating, event admission, and dining options. Set a date and make participants aware that no additions to the travel roster will be accepted after that date.
• Specify payment dates and amounts as soon as the information is available. Make travelers aware of cancellation dates and potential fees to avoid confusion or hurt feelings.
• It’s never a good idea to accept IOUs or promises of future payment. Resist the urge to cover any portion of someone else’s travel expenses.

Realistic limitations let you plan the best trip possible while preventing stressful situations.

Open the Lines of Communication

When planning a large group travel event, communication is key. Use the one or more of the following techniques to make sure your travel buddies always have access to the latest trip information.

• Set up a social media page for your travel group. Post reminders, inspirational photos, and discussions on trip activities. Use online polls to get your members’ opinions on trip-related subjects.
• Create an email address that you use only for trip communications. Add group members to your distribution list, then easily forward copies of receipts, confirmations, and other trip data.
• Help your travel group members get to know each other better by sharing details of each traveler on the group’s social media page. Include a picture, the traveler’s name, and a short blurb that reveals their personality.

Make sure there’s a way for travelers to express their opinions as well. A constant flow of data between you and your large group travel companions eases your efforts to coordinate a large group of diverse individuals.

Distributing Large Group Travel Data

Use these tips to keep your large group travel members from getting lost or left behind during the trip.

• Provide each traveler with printed instructions at the start of the trip. Include bus line names and numbers, the trip travel itinerary, and scheduled activity times and locations.
• Check that each traveler has all required tickets and documentation before embarking on your trip. This includes airplane, admissions to attractions or event venues, passports, and valid state-issued identification.
• Create a travel phone tree and encourage the buddy system to reduce delays from stragglers or forgetful partygoers.

With a little planning and some firm boundaries, you can enjoy large group travel with your friends and loved ones.