What Do Parents Ask?
Flights & Cost
How do flights work?
Students join a chaperoned group flight from a U.S. gateway airport. A Rustic Pathways Flight Leader travels with the group. International students arrange independent flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.
What's included in the price?
Included: Lodging, all meals, in-country transport, all activities, 24/7 staff.
Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, personal spending ($150–200).
Do you offer financial aid or scholarships?
Yes. Monthly payment plans are available for all families, and Rustic Pathways offers both need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Explore scholarships and financial aid
Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is not included in the program tuition. Rustic Pathways recommends that families purchase travel insurance. Get a quote from our recommended provider →
Supervision & Safety
Who's supervising my child?
Rustic Pathways Program Leaders complete a four-month vetting process, and programs maintain a median of one staff member per 4.37 students (4.37:1), with no program exceeding 7 students per staff member (7:1). All Program Leaders are first-aid certified, and every program includes at least one leader with 3 or more years of field experience. Program Leaders range in age from 22 to 45.
Are rooms gender-separated?
Yes. Students room with same-gender peers. Staff stay in adjacent rooms.
What about medical emergencies?
All Program Leaders are first-aid certified. Nearest hospitals are mapped out in all locations. Our health & safety team reviews all medical forms before departure and works with families to plan medications, allergies, and dietary needs.
Communication
Can I reach my child?
Yes. Students can call, text, or WhatsApp during free time. Parents can reach Rustic Pathways’ 24/7 emergency line at any time.
How will I know they're okay?
Parents receive daily photo updates throughout the program from staff on the ground.
What is the phone/device policy?
Rustic Pathways allows students to keep their phones and does not confiscate them, but encourages students to actively participate in the program experience. Students may contact home as often as they like.
Wi-Fi is available at accommodations.
Group & Logistics
How big is the group and how old are the participants?
Groups average 15 students and most programs cap at 20, with a median of one staff member for every 4.37 students. Students are ages 14–18, with most being 15-17.
Can international (non-U.S.) students join this program?
Yes. Rustic Pathways alumni come from 53 countries. International students book their own flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.
Do students come with friends, or on their own?
Most students travel solo without knowing anyone. Program Leaders run ice-breakers on day one, and friendships form quickly. Friends are welcome to enroll together.
What is the accommodation like?
Students stay in locally operated lodging with shared rooms accommodating 2-4 students. Accommodations include private bathrooms and common areas.
Can friends room together?
Yes. Roommate requests are accepted during enrollment.
Program Details
Will my child have unsupervised time?
Students have structured independence during free-time blocks with staff always nearby. There is no unsupervised time in public areas.
Can you accommodate dietary needs & food allergies?
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and common food allergies are accommodated with advance notice. Dietary needs are collected during enrollment.
How much spending money?
$150–200 recommended for souvenirs and incidentals. Tipping is included in the program tuition.
Do we need a visa?
Visa requirements vary by passport and destination. Contact a Rustic Pathways travel advisor for guidance specific to your student’s nationality.
Support
What if my child gets homesick?
Homesickness is common in the first few days. Rustic Pathways staff are trained to support students through it. Read more about managing homesickness
Do you support neurodiverse students?
Rustic Pathways welcomes all students and works with families to provide appropriate support. Learn about Rustic Pathways’ approach to inclusion
