FAQs — accommodations vary by trip, gender-aligned tents and rooms
Accommodations vary depending on the trip. Some trips are entirely camping-based whereas others use private-housing accommodations, hostels, or hotels. Participants stay in rooms and/or tents congruent with their gender identity, as communicated to the Director Team at The Road Less Traveled. If a participant identifies as non-binary, we will discuss their preference when it comes to room and/or tent assignments. When possible, we will also provide the option of a private room and/or tent accommodations.
For a teen who has not spent much time away from home, a domestic trip can make sense. They still get the core RLT experience: small-group travel, phone-free days, shared meals, service, outdoor activity, and leaders who are with the group throughout. But they do not also have to manage international travel, customs, a passport, a larger time change, or the extra layer of being in a country where routines may feel less familiar. Maine is our shortest trip at 7 days, which can be a useful first RLT experience for some students.
Our programs are designed with beginners in mind. Most of our participants have either never traveled like this before or come from a traditional overnight summer camp background and are looking for that next step in independent adventure travel. Our trip leaders are experienced at teaching new skills, whatever your child's starting point. It is completely normal if your child is a bit nervous before their first trip.
Mission and values — Leader of the Day, leadership practice
Leadership isn't a title here, it's what you do when no one's watching. Every traveler takes a turn as Leader of the Day: planning meals, reading the map, making the calls.
Food — all dietary needs accommodated, teen cook crews
All Diets Welcome — We accommodate all allergies and dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten free, nut free, vegan, dairy free, etc). Cook Crew — Each day, a few teens team up to plan, prep, cook, and clean. Leaders offer guidance, but it's teen-led. Simple + Fresh — Think hearty, easy-to-make meals like burrito bowls, pancakes, pasta, veggie stir-fry, and trail lunches with wraps and fruit.
