Health & Safety at Rustic Pathways

Teen Travel Safety is Our Promise 

At Rustic Pathways, safety isn’t just a priority. It’s a promise. For over 42 years, Rustic Pathways has set the industry standard in student safety, pioneering best practices that other companies now follow.

We go beyond traditional risk management with real-world safety data, world-class emergency support, and unmatched supervision policies. Our approach is designed to provide parents with peace of mind and ensure that every student has a safe, rewarding travel experience.

Key Takeaways:

  • ✅ Student to Leader ratio: 7:1 student-to-leader ratio
  • ✅ Emergency response: 24/7 with real-time parent communication
  • ✅ Medical partnerships: HX Global, local clinics 24/7 telemedicine
  • ✅ Accommodations & transport: Prescreened hotels and guesthouses, seatbelt-required transportation
  • ✅ Flight chaperones: Available upon request for select flights
  • ✅ Leading industry certifications (WYSE, SYTA, ACA, BBB accreditation)
  • ✅ Real safety data transparency—no other competitor shares this level of detail

The Rustic Pathways Medical Director is Dr. Will Smith. Dr. Smith, alongside the Director of Operations, Nicholas Pompa, spearheads our family communications and safety protocols.

Medical Support & Emergency Care

  • Our health risk management system includes pre-trip screenings to assess student well-being and ensure a safe travel experience.
  • On-the-ground medical partnerships in every country.
  • HX Global: Emergency evacuation & real-time crisis support.
  • 24/7 telemedicine & emotional support for all students.
  • Closest clinics identified pre-trip for immediate access.

Safety Data: How We Keep Students Safe

Unlike other teen tour companies, Rustic Pathways shares real-world safety data to demonstrate our effectiveness.

2024 Safety Record

  • 90.5% of all reported incidents were minor (Green Level).
  • 8.4% were moderate (Yellow Level, e.g., dehydration or lost items).
  • Only 1 serious (Red Level) incident occurred—an amoebic infection requiring one-night hospitalization and full recovery.

Rustic Pathways Safety Record (2024 Year)

Rustic Pathways shares anonymized safety data to lead the educational travel industry. 

In 2024, we reported 95 incidents, most of which were minor:

  • 90.5% of incidents were classified as green
  • 8.4% of incidents were classified as yellow

One incident was classified as a red. A student consumed unfiltered tap water and contracted an amoebic infection. The incident required an overnight visit to the hospital and a multi-day medication treatment plan. The student recovered quickly.

These classifications help us track and manage safety incidents effectively. See how we define each category:

Incident Classification Severity Level Examples
Green Minor Diarrhea, constipation
Yellow Moderate Lost item, dehydration
Red Severe Amoebic infection, broken arm

Handling Student Incidents

83% of student incidents can be handled with items you likely already have at home:

  • Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for pain relief
  • Pepto Bismol for stomach pain
  • Gatorade for electrolytes
  • Benadryl for allergy relief
  • Rash cream for skin irritation
  • Antibiotic cream and bandaids for minor cuts

Program Leaders

    Our Staffing Team spends four months vetting applicants to find the most qualified and passionate leaders.

    Many of our Program Leaders have experience in teaching, education or international development. 

    All staff undergo background checks, child protection training, and country-specific training before each program. They also hold a variety of certifications based on program needs, which may include:

    Flight Chaperones (Flight Leaders)

    Flight Chaperones, also called Flight Leaders, are available on select flights to assist students during their first international travel experience, helping them feel comfortable and relaxed.

    Here’s how it works:

    1. Available on specific group flights, Flight Leaders meet students at major hub airports (JFK, EWR, MIA, LAX).
    2. They guide students through airport procedures, help students board safely and remain available during the flight.
    3. Upon arrival, they assist with customs and hand off students to in-country staff.

    Note: Flight Chaperones are an optional service and must be arranged in advance.

    Code of Conduct & Adult Mentorship

    Program Leaders live, work, and engage with students throughout the program, providing guidance and support at all times.

    • Supervised Group Activities: While there is limited unstructured free time, any independent time is within a structured environment and under staff guidance.
    • Daily Leader Check-Ins: Program Leaders ensure student well-being and help prevent conflicts.
    • Zero-tolerance policy: Strictly enforced for drugs, alcohol, and bullying.
    • Structured Accountability System:
      • First warning → Leader discussion.
      • Second offense → Parental contact.
      • Major violations → Immediate dismissal at family’s expense.

    Creating A Supportive Environment

    We prioritize students’ emotional well-being alongside physical health. Here is how we help:

    • Homesickness & Emotional Support: Program Leaders regularly check in with students, offering a listening ear and reassurance if they feel overwhelmed.
    • Open Communication: We keep parents informed and are available for students and families to reach out anytime.

    Support For Early Returns: If a student needs to return home early for emotional or physical reasons, we coordinate with the student and family to ensure a smooth transition.

    Rustic Pathways Travel Insurance

    We partner with RoamRight to offer a travel protection plan which includes:

    • Trip cancellation and interruption benefits
    • Lost or delayed baggage benefits
    • Emergency accident and sickness medical coverage
    • Medical evacuation coverage
    • Eligible coverage for pre-existing conditions under certain conditions
    • 24/7 emergency assistance*

    *Support services not covered by insurance

    Transportation & Accommodation Safety

    • Pre-screened accommodations with program leaders always on-site and on-call.
    • All buses & private transport require seatbelts.
    • Vendor vetting process ensures only the safest partners.
    • Flight Chaperones are available to assist students with customs & security upon request.

    Vendor Vetting

    We partner with third-party suppliers for transport, accommodation and activities, regularly conducting safety standard tests. We ensure they meet our safety criteria and communicate regularly for real-time updates. This allows us to quickly adjust itineraries if safety issues arise.

    Parent Communication: Transparent Update System

    • Daily trip updates via email & social media.
    • Real-time emergency alerts via text, phone, and email.
    • Trip photo updates so parents can follow along.
    • 24/7 emergency contact lines for parents.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    General Safety FAQs

    Rustic Pathways’ medical team coordinates immediate care. Parents are contacted immediately, and our 24/7 crisis response team handles all logistics.
    We work directly with families to arrange flights and ensure a smooth transition. Support is provided throughout the process.
    Program Leaders immediately coordinate with the local embassy to issue a replacement. The student is accompanied at all times.
    All meals are planned with allergy & dietary needs in mind. We work with local chefs to provide safe, delicious options.
    Our leaders provide emotional support and personal check-ins to help students adjust.
    Rustic’s team works with students and families to adjust plans as needed. If a student arrives late due to a delay, a staff member will be there to meet them.
    For those who book their own airfare, they are responsible for rebooking directly with the airline.

    Safety, Supervision & Well-being

    The most frequently reported incidents were minor and treatable on-site:

    • Gastro-related cases: 43 incidents (nausea, stomach pain, vomiting).
    • Illnesses: 15 cases (fever, sore throat, infections).
    • Minor injuries: 14 cases (sprains, cuts, fractures).
    • Physical health issues: 10 cases (dehydration).
    • Nature-related injuries: 5 cases (bug bites).
    • Allergy-related issues: 3 cases (skin irritation, rashes).
    • Other: 4 cases (lost items).

    Takeaway: 90.5% of all incidents in 2024 were minor (Green Level), requiring only basic first aid or hydration.

    We use a multi-layered risk assessment process, including:

    • Government advisories: U.S., UK, and Australian state departments.
    • Health monitoring: WHO and CDC updates.
    • Security intelligence: HX Global for real-time risk tracking.

    Our industry-leading 7:1 student-to-leader ratio ensures full-time guidance.

    • Leaders accompany students at all times during activities, transportation, and excursions.
    • Free time is structured, monitored, and follows strict buddy-system policies.

    We foster a respectful and inclusive travel experience through clear policies:

    • Behavioral issues: Private leader discussions for minor infractions. Major violations (e.g., bullying, property damage) lead to warnings, parental notification, or dismissal.
    • Conflict resolution: Leaders step in quickly to mediate disputes.
    • Rooming adjustments: If needed, room assignments are changed to promote a better group dynamic.
    Anytime. Students are encouraged to check in with parents during free time, and in case of any discomfort, our Program Leaders facilitate direct communication.

    Rustic Pathways ensures comprehensive support for students with chronic conditions through:Pre-Trip Medical Planning:

    • Parents complete a detailed medical form outlining conditions, medications, and action plans.
    • Our team reviews the information and adjusts itineraries if necessary for safe participation.
    • Direct communication with families before departure for customized care planning.

    On-Trip Medical Management:

    • Medications are securely stored and administered per parent instructions.
    • Leaders are trained in emergency response for asthma attacks, allergic reactions, and glucose monitoring.
    • 24/7 access to local medical clinics and telemedicine consults if needed.

    Emergency Protocols:

    • Severe allergic reactions: EpiPens are carried and administered by trained staff.
    • Diabetes management: Leaders monitor meal schedules and activity levels.
    • Asthma care: Leaders ensure access to inhalers and minimize exposure to triggers.
    • Parents are notified immediately of any health concerns, and emergency action plans are activated if necessary.

    Travel, Accommodations & Logistics

    We take dietary restrictions very seriously and work directly with families to accommodate special food needs.

    • Pre-trip: Parents provide details via our medical form.
    • On-site: Our teams coordinate with local chefs, vetted restaurants, and meal providers.
    • Allergy protection: We eliminate cross-contamination risks and provide alternative meal options.

    Accommodations vary, but every program ensures:

    • Separate gender bedrooms & bathrooms.
    • Pre-screened accommodations with program leaders always on-site and on-call.
    • Leaders available on-site for supervision.

    Our team encourages students to learn and use the local language. Each group is supported by:

    • Program leaders who facilitate interactions and ensure a smooth experience.
    • Experienced local guides who understand cultural norms and assist with communication.

    Our policy on lost and stolen items is:

    • Immediate leader assistance in locating lost items.
    • Collaboration with local authorities for stolen passports or valuables.
    • Parent coordination for replacements of essentials.

    Preparing for Your Trip & First-Day Essentials

    Before departure:

    • Complete the Medical & Emergency Form (health history, medications, allergies).
    • Contact your Personal Travel Advisor for visa, vaccinations, and packing tips.
    • Attend the Pre-Trip Information Session (online or in-person).

    On the first day of the program:

    • Meet Airport Coordinators: Assistance with check-in & luggage.
    • Travel with a Rustic Pathways Flight Leader: Ensures smooth security & customs processing.
    • Connect with Program Leaders: Available 24/7 to answer questions and provide medical assistance.

      Ready to Learn More?

      📩 Email us: Click Here
      📞 Call us: (440) 975-9691
      📍 Visit our office: 6082 Pinecone Drive, Mentor, OH 44060

      Rustic Pathways is the safest, most trusted teen travel company. Contact us today to give your child a secure, unforgettable adventure!