Grad Trip Pro Tips

Why Take a Grad Trip?

After years of studying, exams, and hard work, you deserve a break! A grad trip is more than just a vacation—it’s a chance to:

  • Travel while you're relatively free of responsibilities.

  • Gain valuable life skills that can look great on your resume.

  • Immerse yourself in new cultures and perspectives.

  • Make new friends and expand your network.

  • Reflect on your life goals before diving into your career.

  • Explore opportunities to work or volunteer abroad.

  • Impress recruiters with your willingness to take risks and embrace new experiences.

  • Make memories you’ll never regret!

Check out this article for even more reasons why traveling after graduation is a fantastic idea: Why You Should Travel After Graduation.

Choosing Your Travel Style

Group Tours: Stress-Free, Social, and Structured

Contiki & Topdeck (Ages 18-30s)
If you want to see the world and party while doing it, Contiki and Topdeck are top choices. These tours cater exclusively to young travelers and offer:

  • A mix of budget-friendly to premium accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and unique stays like French chateaus and Swiss chalets.

  • Large, comfortable coach tours and marine-based adventures (like Mediterranean sailboats and Vietnamese junkboats).

  • A well-thought-out itinerary with included meals, excursions, and an experienced tour guide.

  • The chance to travel solo or with friends—private group tours are also available!

Adventure Tours: G Adventures & Intrepid
For those who want a more immersive experience, these small-group tours focus on cultural connections, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and eco-conscious travel. Highlights include:

  • Smaller groups and more intimate experiences.

  • A range of itineraries and accommodation styles.

  • Options for private groups (great for a close-knit grad crew!).

  • Unlike Contiki and Topdeck, these tours aren’t age-restricted, so they’re also great for family trips.

Cruises: A Floating All-Inclusive Resort

Cruising isn’t just for retirees! Cruise lines now cater to all types of travelers, including young adults:

  • Carnival: Best for budget-conscious travelers who want a fun, party atmosphere.

  • Royal Caribbean & Norwegian: Great for thrill-seekers with onboard activities like escape rooms, climbing walls, and Broadway-style shows.

  • Virgin Voyages (Adults-Only): Perfect for those seeking a stylish, Instagram-worthy experience with top-notch dining.

Cruises offer excellent value, especially for groups, with perks like onboard credits and group discounts!

All-Inclusive Resorts: Ultimate Relaxation & Party Spots

If your goal is sun, sand, and unlimited cocktails, an all-inclusive resort might be your ideal grad trip. Destinations like Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica offer everything from beachside relaxation to epic nightlife. Bonus: No surprise expenses—your food, drinks, and entertainment are covered!

Custom Trips: Tailor-Made for You

Prefer to go your own way? Whether it's Vegas, Orlando, Europe, or Asia, a customized itinerary lets you build the perfect trip. Travel solo, with family, or as a group—each option has its pros and cons:

  • Solo Travel: Maximum freedom, personal growth, and the opportunity to meet new people.

  • Family Travel: A great way to celebrate together, especially if you’ve been away for school.

  • Group Travel: More fun, and group perks like discounts or even free trips for organizers!

Planning Your Grad Trip: Where to Start

Step 1: Define the Basics

  • How long can you travel? Lock in your travel duration before you start planning.

  • When can you go?

    • Good: Pick a season.

    • Better: Choose a month.

    • Best: Set an exact departure date.

Remember, availability for tours, hotels, and flights depends on your final dates!

  • What’s your budget? Make sure everyone in your group is on the same page. Prices vary by season, so book early for the best deals.

  • Where do you want to go? Be flexible! Some destinations are better suited for specific seasons or trip lengths.

Step 2: Research & Budgeting

  • Consider budget-friendly destinations: Spain, Czech Republic, Croatia, Thailand, Portugal, Greece, Vietnam.

  • Look into student discounts: Get an ISIC card for savings on flights, attractions, and more.

  • Compare costs for accommodation, food, and transport to maximize your budget.

Step 3: Booking & Logistics

  • Decide who’s managing the trip: Someone needs to take the lead on planning, booking, and troubleshooting. Or, make it easy on yourself—let a travel consultant (like me!) handle it.

  • Plan essential logistics: Travel insurance, necessary IDs and documents, and packing lists.

Why Plan Now?

The earlier you start planning, the more choices you’ll have, and the better deals you’ll find! Plus, having a trip to look forward to makes the post-grad transition even more exciting.

Need help making your grad trip a reality? I offer a complimentary consultation to kick off the planning process. I’ll work with you to create an itinerary that fits your budget, preferences, and timeline—so all you have to do is pack and enjoy!

Let’s start planning your unforgettable grad adventure today!

Glen Brophy