How to Choose an Educational Travel Company: 7 Questions to Ask

Why the Company You Choose Matters as Much as the Destination

An educational tour is a wonderful way for teachers to explore the world with their students. No matter the destination, as guardians entrusted with the safety and well-being of students overseas, educators’ reputations are on the line, which means finding a trusted travel partner that makes everything run smoothly. But knowing how to choose an educational travel company can feel daunting in a market full of options.

These are 7 questions to consider when you’re researching which company is right for you.

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Question 1: What’s Actually Included in the Price?

When you book with ACIS, we’ll make sure every dollar you spend is well worth it. While bargain-priced tours may cut corners on key excursions, meals and transportation, ACIS offers a wide range of meaningful experiences to choose from. Our groups enjoy timed museum entries, convenient urban transportation and authentic cultural connections through local people, food and more. With a variety of customizable itineraries and unlimited public transit, you’ll be able to see the destinations and attractions that matter most to you, giving you back more time in your day.

Question 2: Who Will Be with Us on the Ground?

The Tour Manager is one of the most important factors in creating a great travel experience. Every ACIS Tour Manager completes a multi-day training before the trip to ensure they are fully prepared. We are committed to delivering a high-quality tour experience regardless of the destination, and this training helps Tour Managers deepen their knowledge of each location while developing the skills needed to be effective leaders. Tour Managers also stay with the group throughout the entire trip, providing consistent support and serving as a trusted resource whenever students or group leaders need assistance.

Question 3: What Happens When Something Goes Wrong?

ACIS’ top priority is ensuring every traveler feels safe, supported and welcome, no matter the destination. If any issues arise during a trip, participants have access to 24/7 on-the-ground support from their highly-trained Tour Manager. Travelers are also provided with direct contact information for the ACIS overseas office network, ensuring quick assistance with any logistical concerns. Before every trip, the ACIS team takes extensive steps to prepare for a wide range of situations, helping minimize potential challenges and ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Question 4: Where Will We Stay?

When choosing a hotel, location matters. With ACIS, you’ll stay in centrally located hotels in the heart of the action, giving you easy access to local attractions, restaurants and cultural experiences. Unlike some budget travel companies that may place groups more than an hour outside the city center, ACIS prioritizes convenience and immersion. Travelers can also choose the accommodations that best fit their needs, whether that means a private room or a budget-friendly option shared with a family member or friend. To ensure a comfortable and consistent experience, all hotels are carefully selected and rated three or four stars.

Question 5: How Will the Trip Connect to My Curriculum?

Educational travel is most impactful when it reinforces and enhances what students are learning in the classroom. With ACIS, Group Leaders can customize their itinerary to align with their educational goals, creating experiences that bring lessons to life beyond the school setting. Whether exploring historical landmarks, engaging with local cultures or learning directly from experts and community members, students gain valuable perspectives that deepen their understanding of the world. Thoughtfully designed programs encourage curiosity, critical thinking and personal growth, helping students build skills and memories that can influence their academic journey for years to come.

Question 6: What Support Do Group Leaders Get for Recruitment and Planning?

Planning an educational trip involves many moving parts, which is why having the right support system makes all the difference. With ACIS, Group Leaders are paired with a dedicated Program Consultant who helps guide them through the planning process, from building the itinerary to managing logistics and trip details. Group Leaders also receive promotional and informational materials to help introduce the trip to students, parents and families. To make planning as smooth as possible, ACIS provides clear flight timelines, flexible payment plan options and ongoing support every step of the way. This comprehensive approach allows Group Leaders to focus on the excitement of the experience while feeling confident that the details are taken care of.

Question 7: What Do Other Teachers Say?

We take pride in creating meaningful travel experiences that leave a lasting impact. More than 500,000 students have traveled with ACIS, and we remain committed to helping each traveler learn, grow and see the world in new ways. That commitment is reflected in the experiences we provide, with 98% of recent Group Leaders rating their trip as Good or Excellent.

Choosing a Partner, Not Just a Price

When comparing educational travel companies, it’s important to look beyond the initial price tag. The lowest-cost option isn’t always the best value, especially when factors like safety, support, accommodations, educational impact and on-the-ground expertise can significantly shape the travel experience.

As you evaluate your options, be sure to ask every company the same seven questions:

1. What’s included in the tour price?
2. How are Tour Managers trained and supported?
3. What safety measures and resources are available during the trip?
4. Where will travelers stay, and what accommodations are offered?
5. How does the program support educational goals?
6. What planning and logistical support is available for Group Leaders?
7. What do past travelers and educators say about their experience?

The answers to these questions can help you identify a travel partner that aligns with your goals and provides the level of quality, support and educational value your students deserve.

At ACIS, we’re proud of how we answer all seven. From personalized planning support and customizable itineraries to highly trained Tour Managers and a strong commitment to safety, every aspect of our programs is designed to help educators create meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom.

Ready to learn more? Connect with an ACIS Program Consultant today and discover how ACIS can help bring your educational travel goals to life.