Overwhelmed by 130+ teen travel options? You’re not alone.
Every year, 10,000+ families use this guide to find the perfect program matching their teen’s interests, your budget, and those all-important college application goals. Whether it’s your anxious 14-year-old’s first student travel trip abroad or your confident 18-year-old’s gap year adventure, we’ll help you navigate the decision in under 10 minutes.
Build schools in Guatemala, protect sea turtles in Costa Rica, or teach English in Thailand. These programs deliver the community service hours colleges love while creating genuine impact.
Perfect for: Teens who want to make a difference, need service hours, or are exploring healthcare/education careers
Alumni outcome: 89% use experiences in college essays; 73% continue volunteering after returning
Top program: Costa Rica Turtle Conservation ($2,895, ages 14-18)
Surfing in Fiji, trekking to Machu Picchu, or navigating Mongolia’s wilderness. These programs build resilience through calculated challenges within our 40-year safety framework.
Perfect for: Confident teens seeking personal growth through physical challenges
Alumni outcome: 92% report increased self-confidence; 78% overcome a major fear
Top program: Peru Sacred Valley Service ($4,495, ages 15-18)
Live with host families, practice Spanish daily, celebrate local festivals. These programs create global citizens who navigate cultural differences with ease.
Perfect for: Language students, future international relations majors, naturally curious teens
Alumni outcome: 67% maintain international friendships; 45% return to study abroad in college
Top program: Thailand Come With Nothing ($6,995, 28 days, ages 16-18)
Related: Language Student Travel Programs
Earn certifications, lead community projects, develop college-ready skills. These programs transform followers into leaders with documented outcomes.
Perfect for: Student council members, aspiring entrepreneurs, teens targeting top universities
Alumni outcome: 94% receive leadership roles in college; 81% report clearer career direction
Top program: Climate Leaders Fellowship (Application-based, ages 16-18)
| Duration | 7-Day Introduction | 2-Week Sweet Spot | 28+ Day Transformation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Investment | $1,099–$3,395 | $2,495–$4,495 | $5,995–$11,995 |
| Best For | First-timers, busy athletes, toe-dippers | Most teens (45% choose this) | Gap year students, independence-seekers |
| College Impact | Introduction to service | Substantial essay material | Life-changing narrative |
| Homesickness Risk | Low (home soon) | Manageable (week 2 breakthrough) | Overcome by week 3 |
| Popular Program | Hawaii Spring Break ($3,395) | Costa Rica Pura Vida ($2,495) | Thailand Come With Nothing ($6,995) |
| Parent Insight | 40% book longer programs next | Optimal service impact | Mid-program check-ins included |
| Transformation Level | Confidence boost | Perspective shift | Complete worldview change (92%) |
Start here: Best Programs for First-Time Travelers
Level up: Programs with more independence, leadership roles, challenging locations
Look for these non-negotiables:
Programs that deliver results:
Making programs accessible:
Filter and compare programs by:
Average investment: $3,500-$4,500 for 2-week programs including all fees. Budget an additional $300-$500 for flights (we arrange these), $200 for gear/vaccines, and $150-$300 for spending money. Many families start with a 7-day program ($2,000-$3,000 all-in) to test the waters.
With 155,000+ alumni and zero major incidents in 40 years, our safety record speaks for itself. Every program includes 24/7 supervision, background-checked leaders (1:8 ratio), comprehensive insurance, and established emergency protocols. Our full-time Medical Director and Mental Health Director oversee all programs. Read our complete safety protocols.
Admissions officers consistently mention our Climate Leaders Fellowship, Dominican Republic Public Health, and any program combining service with language immersion. The key is the reflection and growth students demonstrate. 89% of our alumni successfully incorporate their experience into college essays, and 98% of our gap year alumni get into their first-choice colleges.
One week works for building confidence and sparking interest; many of our 7-day participants return for longer programs. However, for significant personal growth and college application impact, we recommend 2+ weeks. The transformation really happens in week two when comfort zones fully expand.
Our leaders are trained in youth mental health first aid and homesickness prevention. We maintain a 1:8 leader ratio (1:5 for younger teens), conduct individual check-ins within 24 hours of arrival, and have protocols for everything from mild homesickness to anxiety management. Parents have 24/7 access to our support team, and our full-time Mental Health Director provides leader backup.
We accommodate everything from severe allergies to daily medications. Each program has a designated medical officer, and our full-time Medical Director reviews all participant health forms. We’ve successfully included students with diabetes, autism spectrum disorders, severe allergies, and mobility challenges. Discuss specific needs with an advisor.
Answer 8 questions about your teen’s interests, your budget, and preferred dates. Our algorithm matches you with 3-5 perfect-fit programs. Start the Matching Quiz
Browse all 130+ programs with filters, photos, and alumni reviews. Download detailed itineraries and compare up to 4 programs side-by-side. View All Programs
Free 30-minute consultation with a Program Advisor who’s been to your destinations of interest. They’ll help narrow options and answer parent-specific concerns. Schedule Your Consultation
With 155,000+ alumni since 1983, we’ve refined the selection process to a science. The average family considers 5-7 programs and makes their decision within 3 conversations. Whether you’re planning a year in advance or need something for next month, we’re here to guide you through it.
Next steps: Download our Parent Guide | Read Safety Protocols | Calculate Costs | View Application Process