Safety Guidelines for Student Travel

Rustic Pathways’ Safety Rules and Expectations provide a clear, structured framework that keeps students protected, supported, and prepared during every phase of travel. These guidelines cover supervision levels, medical protocols, behavioral expectations, cultural responsibility, and emergency procedures—ensuring a safe, predictable environment where meaningful learning and global engagement can thrive.

More than 155,000 students have traveled with Rustic Pathways since 1983. Our safety policies are shaped by youth travel risk-management best practices, International SOS medical coordination, and industry-leading Program Leader training. The rules below outline what every student
agrees to uphold during their program, forming the foundation for responsible, community-centered exploration.

Why These Safety Rules Matter

Clear expectations reduce risk, support student well-being, and allow Program Leaders to maintain consistent supervision. They also strengthen:

• Personal Growth through age-appropriate challenge
• Cultural Understanding through respectful engagement
• Community Impact through long-term partnerships
• Group Cohesion through shared norms and communication

Core Safety Expectations

Medical & Health Protocols

Every program follows proactive health monitoring and access-to-care standards built around vetted facilities and trained staff.

• 24/7 Emergency Support via Rustic HQ and International SOS
• Certified Leadership: All Program Leaders hold Wilderness First Responder or equivalent certification
• Vetted Clinics & Hospitals near each program hub
• Daily Health Check-Ins and pre-trip medical reviews

Supervision & Accountability

Consistent oversight ensures students remain within safe boundaries suitable for age, maturity, and destination.

• Small Group Ratios for individualized support
• Comprehensive Background Checks for all staff
• 80+ Hours of Training in safety, youth development, and cultural sensitivity
• Anonymous Reporting Tools for student concerns

Student Rules & Expectations

These expectations apply to all Rustic Pathways students and are essential for maintaining a safe, inclusive, and respectful travel environment.

Essential Safety Rules

1. Remain in Supervised Activities unless otherwise instructed
2. Buddy System: Minimum groups of three at all times
3. Immediate Reporting of injuries, concerns, or incidents
4. Emergency Cards must be carried at all times
5. Quiet Hours: Respect curfews and room assignments

Behavioral Standards

Substance-Free Environment

• Zero tolerance for drugs, alcohol, vaping, and tobacco
• Prescription medication must follow program policy
• All incidents handled with a safety-first approach

Respect & Inclusion

• Respect for peers, staff, and community partners
• Inclusive, anti-bullying expectations
• Support for students experiencing challenges

Cultural Responsibility

• Appropriate dress for local cultures
• Learn basic local greetings and etiquette
• Ask permission before taking photos

Environmental Stewardship

• Follow Leave No Trace principles
• Reduce single-use plastics
• Respect wildlife and protected areas
• Participate in conservation initiatives

Virtual Program Expectations

Technical Requirements

• Use neutral or approved virtual backgrounds
• Camera on during sessions unless arranged otherwise
• Mute when not speaking
• Respect multiple time zones

Engagement Expectations

• Participate actively in discussions
• Complete pre-session tasks
• Respect all viewpoints
• Maintain confidentiality

The S.I.T. Framework

Rustic Pathways’ S.I.T. Framework—Safe Environment, Impact, Transformation—guides how every program balances safety with challenge, community engagement, and personal growth.

Safe Environment First

• Professional oversight and clear boundaries
• Freedom within structured limits
• Predictable routines for confident exploration

Meaningful Impact

• Community-led service (never voluntourism)
• Alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals
• Long-term partnerships and measurable outcomes

Personal Transformation

• Confidence through challenge
• Cross-cultural competence
• Resilience and adaptability
• Leadership development and communication skills

Consequences & Support

Our approach prioritizes student growth, fairness, and safety while maintaining clear boundaries.

Zero-Tolerance Violations

• Illegal substances
• Endangering self or others
• Harassment, bullying, or misconduct
• Leaving the group without permission
• Repeated violations after warnings

Student Rights & Resources

Every student has the right to feel safe, supported, and respected.

You Have the Right To:

• Feel safe throughout the program
• Receive appropriate medical care
• Communicate with family during scheduled times
• Report concerns without retaliation
• Access mental health support

Support Resources

• 24/7 Emergency Hotline
• International SOS medical and security assistance
• Parent Portal for updates
• Program Leaders trained in youth mental health first aid
• Country Directors stationed in each destination

Inclusive Community Standards

Rustic Pathways welcomes students of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities.

• LGBTQ+ affirming environment
• Accessibility accommodations as needed
• Dietary and religious support
• Mental health awareness and supportive care
• Cultural sensitivity and humility

Pre-Departure Expectations

Student Commitments

• Complete all medical forms accurately
• Attend pre-departure orientations
• Review cultural guidelines for your destination
• Sign acknowledgment of expectations
• Prepare mentally for challenge and growth

Family Engagement

• Discuss program expectations together
• Understand communication protocols
• Review our youth-development approach
• Speak with Program Leaders as needed