Must-Know Itinerary Information (FAQs)

Know Before you go!

On this page you can find practical information to help you prepare for your trip, get excited about the places you are going to visit and fun travel tips to make most of your memorable experience.

WeVenture Travel will provide you with a detailed day-by-day itinerary description and booking confirmation for the experience you have selected. You will also receive a suggested packing list depending on the trip style you are traveling with, if you go camping we want to make sure you have everything that helps you feel comfortable. If you visit one of our major cities we want to ensure you are prepared for the local common culture in how daily life is experienced. This information shared with you will also contain all the needed details to get to the meeting point, meet your follow travelers and your local expert guide to join your next great adventure. Please make sure you read through these details and of course connect with us if you do have any questions about the send information.

We strive to ensure you have the best possible holiday experience, but due to the nature of travel and the destinations we visit, unforeseen issues may occasionally arise. If any problems occur during your trip, it is essential to inform your Trip Leader immediately. This will allow them to address the situation promptly and minimize any potential disruption to your journey. Our Trip Leaders are in close contact with the WeVenture Travel-er Support team that is available around the clock to respond to challenges. 

You contact us on [email protected] or if you are already on our tour or making your way to meet your group you can call us on +1 (888) 836-2636. Save this number in your phone, it will also function as your emergency contact number in case you would need it.

In case of an emergency, local authorities can be contacted by calling 911 – this is the toll free phone number for the police, the fire department and the ambulance in the USA and Canada. 

Come with an open mind, things can change

We keep our itineraries updated throughout the year based on your valuable feedback and the latest developments in each destination. This means the pre-trip information you receive might differ from what was available when you first booked. We encourage you to review it before you travel to stay fully informed. Once you’re on the trip, factors such as weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, or unforeseen events might require further adjustments to your plans. Additionally, local customs, traditions, or cultural events unique to the area may present unexpected opportunities or considerations. For example, a vibrant festival might lead to altered routes or a rare chance to immerse yourself in local celebrations. Your trip leader or our support team will keep you informed and work to ensure you make the most of these experiences. Flexibility and curiosity are key to embracing the dynamic nature of travel and discovering the charm of each destination.

Optional Activities

 

Our knowledgeable local Trip Leaders are always ready to enhance your travel experience by suggesting optional activities that have been popular with previous travelers. These activities provide an excellent opportunity to dive deeper into the culture, history, or adventure unique to your destination. Since these activities aren’t included in the trip package, they may vary in availability, cost, and format, with some being join-in experiences alongside other travelers. If you’re interested, simply ask your Trip Leader for details—they’ll gladly share recommendations, help with arrangements, and answer any questions to ensure you make the most of your trip.

However, it’s important to note that not all activities are permitted or supported. Your safety is our top priority, so any activities considered high-risk, potentially harmful, or incompatible with the group tour’s ethos won’t be offered or facilitated by your Trip Leader. Examples of high-risk activities might include extreme sports, unregulated excursions, or those in areas with significant safety concerns. If you’d like a comprehensive understanding of what’s not approved, your Trip Leader can provide more information. As a general rule, activities that pose a danger to participants or others are strictly prohibited to ensure everyone enjoys a safe and memorable journey.

Accommodations on tour

Our tours offer a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. You can expect a mix of comfortable budget hotels, charming 3-star boutique hotels with unique local character, and luxurious 4-star premium chain hotels known for their exceptional amenities and service. Each property is carefully selected to enhance your travel experience, providing a perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and authenticity throughout your journey.

When it comes to camping in the United States, WeVenture Travel embraces it as an extraordinary opportunity to fully immerse travelers in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature and the rich diversity of National Parks. From pitching tents beneath star-studded skies to waking up to the sounds of the wilderness, camping allows for a closer connection to the landscapes you’re exploring. Whether it’s setting up near the towering red rocks of Utah or along the serene shores of a glacial lake, camping provides a unique chance to experience the raw beauty of these protected areas firsthand. It’s not just about spending the night outdoors; it’s about soaking in the tranquility, marveling at natural wonders, and forging deeper connections with fellow travelers.

While accommodations may vary, we always strive to ensure a clean, safe, and comfortable experience. Our goal is to provide you with a mix of practicality and authenticity, creating memorable moments that reflect the character of each destination. Regardless of where you rest your head, every stay is designed to complement your adventure and offer a true taste of the places you visit.

The accommodation style listed in the itinerary serves as a guideline and may change if our preferred options are unavailable. In such cases, we will arrange accommodations of a similar standard. While we request that rooms be ready upon arrival, especially for early check-ins, this may not always be possible. If immediate check-in isn’t available, luggage storage will be provided, and you can explore the destination or, on some trips, use shared day rooms until your room becomes ready.

What should you bring to a hotel tour?

The Ultimate Hotel Packing List
Here’s the ultimate hotel packing list—items you may not have thought of, but will definitely need during your stay!

After years of travel, it’s clear that certain hotel essentials make a stay more comfortable. This list includes everything needed to feel at home in your hotel room, whether staying for a few days or longer. Here’s what should be packed for every hotel stay:

Hand Soap
Hotel soap bars are often small and ineffective. Bring a pump of hand soap for easy washing, and be sure to pack it in a zip-top plastic bag to prevent leaks.

Dish Soap & Sponge
For longer stays or trips with reusable bottles, dish soap and a sponge are essentials. Set up a small dishwashing station near the sink to handle bottles or dishes.

Reusable plastic Cup
Plastic cups are handy for a variety of uses—mouth rinsing, washing hair, organizing small items like jewelry, or simply for drinking and perhaps even bring it to the breakfast room. 

Reusable Utensils & Plate
Packing reusable plates, cups, and utensils is a practical solution for takeout or in-room snacks. They’re also great for impromptu meals. Again, perhaps also bring it to the breakfast room.

Ziploc Bags
Ziploc bags are versatile and useful for packaging snacks, small souvenirs, or even covering hotel remote controls to keep them clean.

Pop-up Hamper
A pop-up hamper is a must-have for keeping dirty laundry organized. It packs flat and makes it easy to take laundry to the hotel laundry room, ensuring your room stays neat.

Travel Steamer
Instead of using the hotel iron, a travel steamer helps remove wrinkles from clothes quickly and easily, leaving outfits looking fresh and neat.

Power Strip
A power strip ensures there’s enough charging space for all your devices, especially when hotel outlets are limited or inconveniently located.

Disinfecting Wipes
Disinfecting wipes are great for cleaning surfaces in your hotel room and wiping down your items when heading out for the day.

Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are essential for staying organized. They make it easy to unpack and store your clothes in hotel drawers without touching potentially unclean surfaces.

These items will help ensure a well-organized and comfortable hotel stay, leaving you more time to enjoy your travels.

Hotel Stay Essentials
In addition to comfort items, it’s important to bring the basic essentials for a hotel stay. Make sure to pack your travel documents, phone, chargers, toiletries, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. A small daypack or tote is useful for carrying items needed throughout the day. Comfortable clothing and shoes are ideal for sightseeing or casual outings, and a light jacket or sweater will be perfect for cooler evenings. These essentials will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay while you’re ready to explore your destination.

This list will ensure you’re fully prepared for a comfortable and organized hotel stay!

 

Is camping a travel style for you?

Travel Conditions
During our trips, you will spend time traveling in a private vehicle with your group. Space may be limited, and the environment could feel somewhat cramped. However, this adds to the excitement and allows you to bond with your fellow travelers. Be sure to check the itinerary for travel time estimates.

Camping Experience
This journey may include partial or full camping, giving you the chance to reach more remote locations, as well as the pleasure of sleeping under the stars by a campfire. This is a participatory experience—meaning you’ll be more than just a passenger; you’re part of the team! Be ready to pitch in with tasks such as preparing meals and cleaning up afterward. It’s all about teamwork, and nobody enjoys setting up a tent alone!

Food Kitty
Teamwork extends to the optional food kitty, which is about USD 15 per day. This fund covers the cost of meals and eliminates the hassle of figuring out where to eat or calculating sales tax. Bulk buying and self-cooking help keep costs down. However, there will be opportunities to splurge on treats like a pizza night! While the kitty is optional and designed for convenience, those with special dietary needs can opt out and handle their own food purchases and cooking.

Camping in North America

Our campsites are chosen for their scenic beauty, proximity to attractions, or available facilities, offering a variety of camping experiences. If you’re new to camping, don’t worry—we provide all the essential camping and cooking equipment, including easy-to-pitch tents shared by two people, complete with foam mattresses and vinyl floors. Your leader will guide you through tent setup on the first day. Some trips also include stays in budget-friendly hotels, motels, or hostels (as detailed in the itinerary).

Important Notes:

  • Sleeping Bags: Not provided. Refer to the Packing section for details.
  • Facilities: Most campsites have toilets, showers (sometimes cold or requiring a small fee of $1–$3), and laundry services. Facilities may be limited or unavailable for brief periods, particularly at sites like Yosemite National Park. In such cases, stops for facilities may be arranged as we exit the park.
  • Quiet Hours: Campsites enforce quiet hours during which music, singing, and group gatherings must cease. Please respect these rules.
  • Rooming Arrangements: On trips with lodges or cabins, couples may be assigned separate accommodations as rooming is based on single-gender arrangements.

Weather and Flexibility:
Our high-quality camping gear is designed for outdoor adventures but may be affected by severe weather. In extreme conditions (e.g., snow or heavy rain), the group may choose to relocate to a nearby hostel or hotel, with any additional costs covered individually. Your flexibility and adventurous spirit will ensure an unforgettable experience, no matter the conditions.

What should you bring to a Camping tour?

We provide tents, basic sleeping mats, camp kitchen essentials, camp chairs, and campfire supplies. Luggage is carried in trailers or vehicles, so please limit yourself to one medium-sized bag, backpack, or suitcase (max 20kg/44lb). Your bag may be handled roughly, so choose something durable. You can bring a small daypack with essentials like a water bottle and camera.

If traveling in shoulder season (April, May, September, October), pack extra cold weather gear, as temperatures may drop below freezing. Even in summer, desert and mountainous areas can be chilly at night.

Essential items:

  • Sleeping bag: Bring one from home or purchase one before the trip. Temperatures can reach -5°C, and snow is possible. Consider donating it before returning home.
  • Towel
  • Travel pillow
  • Reusable water bottle (1.5 liters or more) to reduce plastic waste. Tap water is safe in the US, and refill stations are available.
  • Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
  • Quick-drying, breathable clothing: Layer for changing weather conditions. Even in summer, include a warm outer layer and waterproof jacket.
  • Closed-toe hiking shoes: Essential for protection against rough terrain, bites, or stings.
  • Bring personal travel documents such as your passport, visa, driver’s license, travel insurance, flight tickets, and Essential Trip Information. Keep photocopies of these documents in a separate location to help with replacements if needed.

Recommended:

  • Cell phone, camera, spare batteries, charger, and power/plug adaptor (Types A & B, 120V). Some vans have USB-2 charging ports.
  • Insect repellent (insects vary by location and weather).
  • Cotton bandana or scarf for evaporative cooling, sun or dust protection, or warmth.
  • Head torch/headlamp.
  • Plastic/waterproof toiletry bag for keeping clothes dry in camp showers.
  • Swimwear.
  • Shower shoes (rubber sandals for camp showers).
  • Personal medical kit with pain relievers, electrolytes, anti-diarrhea, antibacterial gel, wipes, and Band-Aids.

Optional:

  • Sleep sheet (for hot seasons).
  • Thermarest (extra comfort with a double mattress layer).
  • Lip balm and moisturizer (for desert areas).
  • Ear plugs (for noisy tent mates).
  • A book, journal, or headphones (for downtime).

Medical and Health Information

General Health
Travelers must be in good physical health to fully participate. All our trips have a physical 

If you’re unwell before the trip, please stay home and contact us to arrange alternatives. Review the itinerary to ensure it matches your abilities. If a group leader determines you cannot complete the trip safely, you may be excluded without a refund. Consult your doctor for travel health advice, vaccinations, and medication requirements. Bring a first aid kit and any medications in original packaging, checking for local restrictions.

Food and Dietary Requirements
Food tours
– When joining a food tour with WeVenture Travel, please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies at the time of booking. While we strive to accommodate various needs, certain restrictions may limit the availability of alternatives. Early communication helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Camping – On North American camping trips, an optional group fund (“kitty”) covers shared meal expenses. Cooking, cleanup, and meal prep are rotated among participants. Meals typically include grilled meats, salads, pasta, rice, and vegetables, while breakfasts feature staples like cereal, bread, and coffee. Travelers with dietary needs can opt out of the kitty and prepare their own meals. Speak with your leader for assistance in adapting to your requirements.

 

Working with the communities we visit

Our experiences uplift local businesses, foster economic growth, and support community development. We promote respect for residents and cultures, valuing traditions and contributions to create sustainable, thriving communities.

We believe travel can be transformative when approached with care, intention, and respect. Partnering with Native American communities, we work to preserve heritage, support local economies, and promote cultural understanding. By amplifying their voices and sharing their stories, we aim to foster meaningful connections that honor both past and future.

We also collaborate with National Parks to preserve natural beauty, adhering to Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact. These practices protect our planet for future generations and deepen travelers’ connection to nature. We might even join ranger programs or help the parks get rid of litter while we travel through the parks

Different Cultures

The opportunity to experience different perspectives and ways of life is one of the most rewarding aspects of traveling. Visiting the United States provides a unique chance to engage with diverse viewpoints, understand varying cultural norms, and appreciate how and why things are done differently across regions and communities.

Respect differences: Whether it’s political opinions, daily habits, or social behaviors, we strive to respect and accept differences without attempting to change them or being vocally critical.
Learn through understanding: Travelers may encounter practices or beliefs they find unfamiliar or even challenging. We aim to help interpret these differences so they can be better understood and appreciated.
Practice patience and courtesy: The United States is a melting pot of cultures and viewpoints, which means interactions can sometimes require extra patience. A kind and respectful attitude can go a long way.
Stay calm and friendly: Even when encountering unexpected situations or differing opinions, maintaining a cheerful and open-minded demeanor fosters positive connections.
Embrace curiosity: Just as you may observe differences in locals’ behavior, they might find your own habits or perspectives equally intriguing. They may ask questions or express curiosity, which should be met with patience and politeness as a way to foster mutual understanding.

By approaching these interactions with respect and openness, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse social and cultural fabric of the United States, turning every experience into an opportunity for growth and connection.

Things to know about money

Budget appropriately for optional meals, drinks, shopping, activities, and souvenirs. Review the itinerary to understand what’s included in the trip price and what costs you’ll cover. ATMs are widely available in North America; check with your bank for international fees. Most optional activities accept credit cards. Cash apps are also widely accepted nowadays.

Tipping
Tipping is customary in North America, especially in tourism-related services.

  • Your Trip Leader: Consider tipping US$10–20 per person per day for excellent service, though the amount is up to you.
  • Local Guides: A tip of $5–10 per person is recommended for expert guides during included activities.
  • Restaurants: Tip 18%–22% of the bill.
  • Bars: Tip US$1 per drink.

Note: State and federal taxes are often not included in listed prices, so your bill may be slightly higher than expected.

Climate and Seasonal Information

Weather in North America
Given the vast size and varied topography of the US and Canada, the climate can differ greatly depending on the region. It’s important to consider both the season and the specific area you’re visiting to pack appropriately for your trip.

USA National Holidays
The following national holidays are observed in the US and can impact travel plans, as traffic may be heavy and shops, restaurants, and attractions may be closed:

  • New Year’s Day (January 1)
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday of January)
  • Washington’s Birthday (third Monday of February)
  • Memorial Day (last Monday of May)
  • Independence Day (July 4)
  • Labor Day (first Monday in September)
  • Columbus Day (second Monday of October)
  • Veterans Day (November 11)
  • Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday of November)
  • Christmas Day (December 25)

Trip Leaders

A trip leader or guide plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of a group tour. They are responsible for managing logistics, such as coordinating transportation, accommodations, and daily activities, while ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants. Beyond handling practicalities, the trip leader also acts as the main point of contact, providing insightful information about the destinations, local culture, and points of interest. They assist with problem-solving, address individual needs, and create a positive group dynamic, fostering a fun and enjoyable experience. The trip leader ensures that the tour runs on time, all inclusions are met, and that travelers have an informative and memorable journey.

Trip Leaders are also drivers
Our leaders in the US and Canada are responsible for both driving the van and navigating throughout the country. Driving hours are strictly regulated in North America to ensure that drivers remain well-rested and not overworked.

In many National Parks, it is prohibited for non-qualified rangers to provide information. As a result, our leaders will encourage travelers to visit the park’s information centers to learn more about the sites, as required by the park rangers.

Safety on Tour

Most governments provide regularly updated travel advice on safety issues. We recommend checking your government’s travel information before departure and ensuring your insurance covers all destinations and activities on your trip. For added security, we suggest using a neck wallet or money belt to keep your passport, flight tickets, cash, and valuables safe. It’s also best to leave jewelry at home, as it’s not needed while traveling. Many of our hotels offer safety deposit boxes, the most secure option for storing valuables, and we recommend locking your luggage. Your leader will be with you during all included activities, but you will also have free time to explore or relax. While your leader will assist with options during this free time, please note that any optional activities are not part of your booked itinerary, and WeVenture Travel does not guarantee their safety or the quality of the operators. Always use your judgment when choosing an activity. Your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if safety concerns arise.

Rules of the Road

We are committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all travelers. Any form of violence (verbal or physical) or sexual harassment, whether between customers, involving our leaders, partners, or local communities, will not be tolerated. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a customer are strictly prohibited.

The use or possession of illegal drugs is not allowed. If you choose to consume alcohol during your travels, we encourage responsible drinking and expect compliance with local alcohol laws. In the U.S., the legal drinking age is 21, and in Canada, it is 18 in Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec, and 19 in other provinces and territories. Our leaders are unable to assist underage passengers in purchasing alcohol.

We do not support the sex tourism industry, which exploits vulnerable individuals and harms communities. Engaging with sex workers is not permitted during our trips.

By traveling with us, you agree to follow these rules and comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange, and drug regulations of all countries visited. You also agree to travel in line with our Responsible Travel Guidelines.

The group leader’s decision is final on matters affecting the safety or well-being of any traveler or staff member. Failure to comply with the group leader’s instructions or behavior that disrupts the group may result in immediate removal from the trip with no refund, and we may choose not to carry you on future trips.

If you witness inappropriate behavior during your trip, please inform your trip leader right away.

Travelling in a group

When traveling as part of a group, you’ll experience both the joys and occasional challenges of shared travel. Fellow travelers may come from diverse backgrounds and age groups, and it’s important to be considerate of everyone’s needs and preferences. Patience and understanding will help ensure that everyone enjoys the journey. Additionally, respect the group’s schedule—if asked to be somewhere at a certain time, please be punctual. We’ve found that the best trips are those where the group dynamics are positive, and this requires a little effort from everyone.

For privacy reasons, we cannot share personal contact information of fellow travelers prior to departure.

Solo Travelers
Many of our travelers join solo, seeking to meet and share experiences with others. We pair solo travelers with others of the same gender, based on the details in our booking system. If your gender identity differs from the one listed on your passport, please inform us in advance.

For those who prefer a private room, we offer an optional single supplement on most tours, which applies only to accommodation during the trip. Pre- and post-trip accommodations booked through us are automatically single-room. Some tours may have shared, open-gender accommodation, which will be detailed in the send booking confirmation and trip details. 

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all international trips. At a minimum, your coverage should include medical expenses and emergency repatriation. If you’re traveling within your home country or region, ensure you can easily access public medical services in case of an accident. We highly recommend having a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage or personal items. For international trips, you cannot join the group until you provide proof of travel insurance and the 24-hour emergency contact number of the insurer.

If you’re using credit card insurance, your leader will need the insurer’s details, coverage level, policy number, and emergency contact number, not just your bank’s name or credit card information. Please check with your bank for these details before arriving.

For travelers from the European Union or Switzerland, basic international health insurance is provided, so travel insurance isn’t mandatory under EU law. However, it doesn’t cover emergencies like rescues, private healthcare, or repatriation, so we strongly recommend comprehensive coverage.

Responsible Travel

At WeVenture Travel, we are committed to promoting responsible travel practices that minimize our impact on the environment and local communities while traveling in the United States. We strive to make thoughtful choices that respect local cultures, support local economies, and protect natural resources. However, we recognize that traveling as a group can sometimes place pressure on local resources, and we work to mitigate this by encouraging sustainable practices such as reducing waste, supporting eco-friendly accommodations, and being mindful of our actions. We appreciate the cooperation of our travelers in helping us ensure that their experiences benefit both the places they visit and the people they meet.

Get in Touch

Get in touch with us by filling out the form here and we will reply as soon as we can.