10 Questions To Consider When Hiring A Backpacking Tour Company?

The following are some things to consider if you are looking to hire a company to take you on a backpacking trip.

1.Insured – Accidents do happen, and so does negligence. You may be saving a few bucks by going with the lower price, but think about why it is a lower price. They may not have adequate coverage in the event of an unfortunate incident.

2. Permitted - Is the company legal in the area of your trip. The company most likely needs some form of commercial permit from a governing body of some sort. Examples are the National Park Service, National Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management to name a few.

If they are not permitted, they are most likely not insured.

3. Active Ownership - Is the owner/owners a current or former guide. This comes down to knowledge and practical experience. Who better to run a tour company that someone who has done, or is still doing the trips.

4.Qualified Guides/Trip Leaders – All guides should have medical training. Different areas have different regulations. A good company will encourage its staff to stay up to date on medical training.

5. Ask Questions - Call them and ask questions. If the person who is selling you a trip can’t answer specific logistics questions, do not book your trip. The person/persons selling the trip should be able to answer questions about every aspect of your trip.

6. Beware of the Internet - Purchase your trip from a person. Fancy websites are easy to create                 and may entice you into booking a trip. Shopping online is great. When you think you are ready to buy, call the company and speak to a representative.

7. Ask For References – Happy customers are a great way to get good information.

8. Be Open To Recommendations - If you have spoken to the company, discussed the requirements of the trip, and they seem to be guiding you towards another trip, it may be for a reason. A good company will be honest and not sell the trip if they believe the client isn’t capable of completing the trip. A good company has options available.

9.Food - Make sure they take into consideration any dietary restrictions for each member of your group. Some folks feel this should be higher on the list.

10. Trip Insurance - A good company will recommend that you purchase trip insurance. They recognize that unpredictable events do occur. A last minute illness could cancel your trip. Insurance would cover your cancelled trip cost. Sometimes you will be able to purchase trip insurance from your tour provider. Most times you will have to purchase through a third party.