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Hiking & Backpacking Tours

• Destinations
• United States
• Hiking & Backpacking Tours

When it comes to immersing yourself in the great outdoors, nothing beats camping in the wilderness beneath a sky full of sparkling stars.

Have all the fun of an adventurous outdoor experience without any of the organizational hassle by embarking on a  hiking & backpacking tour  through some of the  USA’s most captivating landscapes  – the Intrepid way. Take in the sights of national treasures like  Zion National Park , Joshua Tree National Park, and Olympic National Park during the day, and at night, help your guide set up camp, swap stories with your fellow travelers, and let the sounds of Mother Nature slowly sing you to sleep. Simply put, unforgettable doesn’t even begin to describe it. 

Backpacking vs base camp vs hut-to-hut

Backpacking

Our backpacking trips are all about switching off and getting back to basics. Say goodbye to running water, and hello to cathole toilets! Carrying a backpack loaded with camping gear, personal items and group supplies, you’ll hike through untamed backcountry and set up a new camp each day with your group. Two words: pack light.

Our base camp trips are perfect if you don’t want to lug a backpack around, or if you'd prefer to camp with a few extra creature comforts. After enjoying daily hikes on front country trails, you’ll return to the same campsite each day equipped with proper toilets, showers, bigger tents and a camp kitchen.

If you’re an adventurous type who also likes sleeping on a real mattress (we don't blame you), our hut-to-hut trips could be for you. You’ll still need to carry your backpack as you hike through the backcountry, but you’ll stay in huts each night that range from basic bunkhouses to comfortable motels depending on the trip.

Our backpacking tours

Hiking and backpacking in yellowstone, 4 days from 1605.

See the best of Yellowstone on an Intrepid small group hiking and camping adventure...

Hiking and Backpacking Yellowstone's Bechler River Traverse

5 days from 2045.

Avoid the crowds and see the best of Southern Yellowstone National Park’s backcountry...

Hiking and Backpacking North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains

3 days from 1070.

Discover great trails, incredible views, spectacular summits and more on a small group...

Our base camp tours

Hiking and camping in zion, 3 days from 1560.

Experience Utah’s most famous national park as a standalone canyon country experience...

Hiking and Camping in Joshua Tree

4 days from 1775.

Experience Joshua Tree’s surreal landscapes, cool oases, and famous Joshua Trees on a 4...

Hiking and Camping in Yellowstone

5 days from 2230.

See the best of this iconic national park on five spectacularly diverse, hand-picked...

Hiking and Camping in Utah

6 days from 2360.

Experience Utah’s most famous national park destinations and see the best of Zion,...

Our hut-to-hut tours 

Hike new hampshire's appalachian trail and presidential peaks, 4 days from 1895.

Spend an incredible 4 days hiking the highest mountains in New Hampshire, the...

Highlights of our hiking & backpacking tours

Take in the sights of Yellowstone National Park

Leave the busy roads and noisy sounds of everyday life behind as you embark on an adventure through one of the USA’s most beloved parks. Brimming with epic natural features, Yellowstone National Park boasts landscapes that need to be seen to be believed and luckily for you, you’ll get to see them all on hikes during the day before resting your body and camping out under the stars every night. 

Marvel at the natural wonders in Yosemite

If you’re searching for remarkable sights that’ll give your camera its hardest workout yet, then search no longer – Yosemite National Park’s North Rim offers all that and so much more. Perfect for both outdoor enthusiasts and hardcore hikers, this trail boasts giant waterfalls, majestic peaks, and flower-filled meadows you’re bound to ooh and ahh over. And at night, set up camp, enjoy a hearty meal, and fall asleep under the night sky’s twinkling stars. 

Explore Utah's wild west

Picture this: you wake up to the peaceful sounds of Mother Nature and have your morning coffee surrounded by spring-fed creeks, huge canyons and colourful cliffs. Spend six days hiking in Utah ’s most iconic national parks and watch these otherworldly landscapes come alive. Trek through Bryce Canyon’s awe-inspiring “hoodoos” and natural amphitheatres, wade through the rushing waters of Zion’s slot canyons, and explore the labyrinth of potholes, arches, and grottos in the dreamy Escalante. 

Hike the Appalachian Trail

Explore one of the most beautiful sections of the Appalachian Trail on a three-day backcountry adventure through the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll journey deep into the wilderness of the Cradle of Forestry, wind through postcard-perfect grassy meadows and witness the majestic cascades of Looking Glass Falls – maybe jumping in for a swim to cool down. The best part? You’ll camp on the summit of the spectacular Shining Rock and enjoy lunch on huge ledges overlooking the rolling plains of Ivestor Gap.

Popular US National Parks

Our  US National Park Tours  offer something for all kinds of adventurers, explore our range below.

Yosemite National Park

Yellowstone National Park

Denali National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Zion National Park

Glacier National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Badlands National Park

Death Valley National Park

Arches National Park

Olympic National Park

Mount Rainier National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

Winter hiking and snowshoeing tours

Walking and trekking tours

Our hiking & backpacking tour reviews, essential info & faqs, what's the range of backpacking and hiking trips available.

We offer a wide range of all-inclusive backpacking and hiking tours in some of the USA's best national parks and scenic trails. Apart from getting yourself to the meeting point and bringing your personal items, everything is organised and provided for you including an expert hiking guide, permits and fees, meals, and most camping and hiking gear. Our trips range from base camp tours that include easy to moderate day hikes on front country trails to multi-day backpacking or hut-to-hut adventures in high mountains and backcountry routes. 

What do I have to carry when we hike?

On our backpacking and hut-to-hut tours you'll need to carry a backpack that weighs between 25-45 lbs (11-20 kg) depending on the itinerary and season. It'll be loaded will be with your personal items (clothing, camera, toiletries, water bladder, etc), camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc), and a portion of the group's food supplies or camping gear. Base camp tours are a bit different – we'll return to the same campsite each day so you can leave your main bag at camp. You'll still need a small daypack to carry your water bottle, snacks, camera and any other essential items while we're out hiking. 

Should I bring/pack anything special?

We'll provide you with camping gear including a daypack, trekking poles, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad and pillow. Essentials you'll need to bring from home include a three-litre water bladder or bottle, hiking clothes and boots, headlamp, toiletries and medication, camera and any other personal items you might need. Just remember, it's no fun lugging a really heavy bag around so try to pack as light as possible. 

How fit do I need to be to join?

While our range of backpacking and hiking trips differ in difficulty, it is recommended that you have a reasonable level of fitness so that the tour's enjoyable and you can get the most out of your holiday. To do this, try participating in some form of physical activity (such as long walks, running, cycling, etc) at least six weeks out from your trip. It's also a good idea to do some shorter test hikes with a backpack or something similar so you can become comfortable carrying your gear when the trip comes. 

To help you choose the trip with the right level of difficulty, our team will forward an assessment form to you at the time of booking, and we will be open to discussing your choice and making suggestions if need be. You won't be confirmed for the trip until your form has been received and reviewed. 

What sort of safety precautions are taken?

We value the safety of our customers, staff and fellow travellers very highly so you can rest assured that you'll be safe throughout the duration of your trip. Our leaders are well-trained and experienced (as well as insured) and don't cut corners when it comes to the wellbeing and safety of others. This means we only take well-researched trails and listen to all safety warnings when it comes to changing weather conditions. 

Do I need special insurance for backpacking trips?

The short answer is no and yes - you won't need any extra insurance to cover any additional or technical activities that come with a backpacking and hiking trip but you will need to have an insurance policy that covers activities such as hiking and trekking. To make sure you're appropriately covered, we recommend presenting your insurer with the trip's itinerary.

Are backpacking and hiking trips accessible?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to join a backpacking and hiking trip?

Travellers on this particular trip are not required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. However, any guest who has been in close contact with someone known to have COVID-19, or who develops flu-like symptoms (cough, fever, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, body aches/chills, recent loss of taste or smell), or who tests positive for COVID-19 within 14 days of their scheduled trip will not be allowed to join the trip without a negative COVID-19 test result.

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Trip Styles

• Destinations

Hiking and Trekking Tours

Join us for a hiking adventure you'll never forget!

All Inclusive, Expert Led Hiking Excursions Across the Globe

Immerse Yourself in Wilderness and Be Inspired

Award Winning Hiking Tours in the USA and Beyond

Find Your Ideal Wilderness Vacation

306 Trips Meet Your Criteria

Welcome to Wildland Trekking

Four key factors set us apart from other adventure and hiking companies.

All Inclusive Trips

Wildland hiking tours allow guests to focus 100% on the hiking experience. We provide all gear, meals, transportation, professional guides, permits, fees and much more!

Small Groups

Our hiking trips are always small group adventures, typically 4-12 people per trip. Join a personalized trekking vacation that prioritizes quality of experience above all else.

World-Class Destinations

Our trip diversity allows you to enjoy the world's inspiring landscapes in a variety of ways and at different times in your life, and we hope you'll sample them all!

The Best Guides in the Industry

These extraordinary men and women have the ability to turn a great get-away into an unforgettable, inspiring - and sometimes truly life changing - adventure.

Check out the current list of discounted tours

Save on a discounted tour.

Interested in enjoying one of our premier adventures, and saving 15-25% on the cost? See our list of discounted hiking and backpacking tours. Often these trips are coming up fast and require some flexibility with scheduling, but if one works for you it can pay off. Feel free to call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) with any questions!

World-Class Hiking Destinations

We operate premier hiking tours all over the USA from the deserts, to the canyons, to the mountains, to the seashores and beyond. We also operate internationally to life-list destinations like Kilimanjaro, Iceland, the Alps, Peru, Patagonia and more world-class hiking destinations. View all destinations

Alaska Hiking and Walking Tours

USA Hiking Vacations

Alps Guided Treks

Global Hiking Vacations

Bryce Hiking Tours

Utah Hiking Tours, USA

Canadian Rockies Hiking Tours

Canada Hiking Tours

Canyonlands Hiking Tours

Death Valley Hiking Tours

California Hikes & Tours, USA

Grand Canyon Hiking Tours

Arizona Hikes & Tours, USA

Iceland Hiking Trips

Olympic Hiking Tours

Washington Hiking Tours, USA

Patagonia Hiking Tours

Peru Hiking Tours

Rocky Mountain National Park Hiking Tours

Colorado Hikes & Tours, USA

Smoky Mountains Guided Hikes

North Carolina Hikes, USA

Tetons Guided Hikes

Montana and Wyoming Hikes & Tours, USA

Yellowstone Hiking Tours

Yosemite Hiking Tours

Zion National Park Hiking Tours

For people who love to hike and travel, Wildland has something for everyone.

Guided Backpacking Trips

Camping Hiking Tours

Inn-Based Hiking Tours

Hut to Hut Trekking Tours

Day Hike Tours

Portered Treks

Llama Treks

Ski/Snowshoe Tours

Women's Adventure Trips

Guides Choice Trips

Family Friendly Trips

Paddle & Hike

National Park Tours

Highly rated on.

For us quality of experience is only second to safety.

We are committed to providing world-class trekking experiences for our guests that go way above and beyond the mass-produced tours so common today.

The Mt. Rainier Inn trip with Wildland was perfect. The Inn was comfortable; the guide was an expert in his field; the pacing was just right to accommodate all those on the trip; the scenery was ideal. If you can go please do.

Why Join a Guided Hiking or backpacking Tour?

10,000+ people join our guided hiking tours and backpacking trips annually, and there are many reasons so many people make this choice.

Reserve A Trip

Trained Guides

Hiking with an experienced, trained guide helps to maximize the safety and enjoyment of your trekking adventure. This is especially true if your trip is in an unfamiliar area, which guided trips often are.

Everything Included

A specific hiking or backpacking trip may be on your "life list" and you don't want to purchase all the gear and equipment to do a single trip. In this situation going with a guide service where everything is included provides a tremendous benefit.

Knowledge & Learning

Some guests are most interested in learning as much as they can about the area(s) they're hiking through. Guides can bring places to life by sharing stories, knowledge, observations, context and personal passion.

Convenience

We handle all the trip planning and on-the-ground logistics. This service takes the burden of planning almost entirely off your plate. Additionally you can travel light and have everything waiting for you.

Learn from Experts

Some guests are new to the outdoors, backpacking, hiking, and/or camping and prefer to go with experts to learn best practices from professionals. Guided trips are an excellent way to get started.

A Perfect Combination

For most guests it's a combination of some or all of these reasons that they join guided hiking tours and backpacking trips. Whatever your reason is, we're ready to help you create the experience of a lifetime.

Explore with our Expert Hiking & Backpacking Guides

For the last 15+ years Wildland has been awing guests with the professional and inspiring service our exceptional guides and staff provide. The secret sauce to our award winning trips is our staff (guides, managers, adventure consultants, drivers and more) who are deeply passionate about wilderness, about adventure, and about sharing those loves with others.

Hermit Loop Backpacking Trip

Hiking and Backpacking Guide

If you want to truly experience the grandeur and thrill of walking through the Grand Canyon, the 4 day Hermit hiking journey is the best way to achieve this once in a lifetime experience. Our guide Josh was first rate and managed our hiking group with skill and flexibility!

— Michael A.

Choosing the Right Hiking Trip

Choosing the right trip is a key ingredient for enjoying your hiking vacation. We offer backpacking trips, horse/llama/porter supported hikes, inn-based hiking tours, basecamp hiking tours and day hike tours. For guests looking to challenge themselves and travel deep into the backcountry, a backpacking trip is the best choice. Some people want to explore the backcountry but without heavy backpacks, and for those folks we recommend horse/llama/porter supported trips. Inn-based and basecamp tours are multi-day hiking vacations that showcase the best hikes and highlights of an area and are either inn-based or camping-based, and are great for families, couples, and solo travelers. And, finally, day hikes with an award winning hiking tour company like Wildland are an exceptional way to maximize a short amount of time at one of America’s amazing national parks.

When and Where to Hike

For desert hiking destinations like Joshua Tree and Death Valley, the best seasons are spring, fall and winter. In mountain destinations like Yellowstone, Iceland, the Pacific Northwest, the Alps and others, the best seasons to hike are late spring, summer and early fall. Some destinations are great year round, regardless of whether they are in the desert or mountains; examples are Grand Canyon, Sedona, the Smoky Mountains, Yosemite, Yellowstone (ski and snowshoe tours), Peru, and Ecuador. Winter is, generally, the most underrated season for hiking and backpacking tours in many areas, as it’s a spectacular time of year to hike but largely skipped over by many people.

When choosing your next destination, it’s important to consider more than just the time of year. You can call us 7 days a week at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to speak with our Adventure Consultant Team.

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FIRST BACKPACKING TRIP IN 2024? HERE’S THE ULTIMATE BEGINNERS GUIDE & CHECKLIST!

HEADING OUT ON YOUR FIRST BACKPACKING TRIP IN 2024?

Check out our ultimate beginners guide below, perfect for those heading out on their first backpacking trip in 2024! Includes: The best backpack type and size, must-have backpacking accessories, Top 10 tips and best travel destinations and much more!

THE BEST BACKPACK FOR BEGINNERS

From our own personal experience, the best backpack brand is Osprey. This worldwide brand are an expert in their field, providing a huge range of backpack types, sizes and design configurations for people to choose their perfect backpack.

We personally use the Osprey Farpoint 70L Backpack with a detachable 13L daypack, which we both absolutely love and couldn’t recommend enough.

ALL BACKPACK SIZES EXPLAINED

Bizarrely, backpack sizes are measured by their volume capacity, listed in litres. For example, you will see backpack sizes listed as 30L, 50L, 70L.

Sometimes the description may not even show the ‘L’, just the number. But what does this mean for you? Here is a rough backpack size guide to follow:

Small backpacks (6-10 Litres) : Ideal for days out. Daypacks (10-30 Litres) : Ideal for a day walks or hiking trails Medium backpacks (30-50 Litres) : Overnight camping & hikes. Large backpacks (50+ Litres) : Long-term travelling.

BEST BACKPACK SIZE FOR TRAVELLING

If you are planning on doing a few months of continuous travelling, we would recommend investing in a larger backpack size, ideally between 50 to 70 litres.

We would not recommend a backpack that is more than 70 litres. While we fully understand it is tempting to pack everything you can including the kitchen sink “just in case you need it”, when you’re travelling, you realise you do not need much at all.

The key thing to remember is, you will be carrying this backpack around the entire time. You don’t want to feel like a carthorse with a broken back due to your panic packing.

BEST BACKPACK TYPE FOR TRAVELLING

The most important thing is to buy the type of backpack that opens from the side. We cannot stress this enough!

During our travels, we have seen first-hand poor travellers with backpacks that open only from the top, desperately rummaging to the bottom of their bags to find something super small. It really was the definition of looking for a needle in a haystack.

Avoid the frustration of pulling all of your personal contents out in public every time you need to grab one thing, by buying a side opening backpack.

Luckily, our recommended Osprey Farpoint 70L Backpack (that we personally own) is not only the perfect size at 70L, it also opens from the side! See below for further key details:

OSPREY FARPOINT 70L BACKPACK

BENEFITS OF THIS OSPREY FARPOINT 70L BACKPACK :

• It opens from the side.
• It comes with an additional 13L detachable daypack, which is ideal to use for day trips out.
• Multiple straps and harnessing points to help distribute the weight evenly on your back. These straps can be zipped away by a protection flap at the back when not in use.
• Deceivingly spacious inside. Lots of different internal compartments for organising.
• Very hardwearing – ours have been through the ringer and still have no tearing or marks on them!

Want to decorate your new backpack with your new travel memories? Check out how to put a patch on a backpack !

THE BEST BACKPACK ACCESSORIES

Meshed packing cubes.

Once you own packing cubes, you will never go back! These handy little luggage organisers will make packing, unpacking and your life so much more organised and easier when travelling.

BENEFITS OF PACKING CUBES :

• The best for housing all those small items that usually go all over the place like electronics and chargers, toiletries, underwear and socks!
• They’re incredibly light, but made with very durable material with a tough zip. No ripping!
• Breathable mesh on the front for freshness and visibility.
• Come in a range of sizes.

Click for product link to packing cubes ! 🧦🩲

A MEDICAL FIRST AID KIT

One thing you must take travelling is a medical first aid kit. With all the epic destinations and activities you will experience, this also opens up possibility for bad stomachs, potential dehydration, sunburn and minor injuries. Have your medical bag packed for all eventualities.

We highly recommend to pre-pack the basics for all key eventualities that you might encounter. Not only will it be cheaper to buy your medication back home, but it also gives you peace of mind that you know exactly what you are taking.

A few ideas of what to consider are below:

Injuries – Plasters and small bandages. – Small scissors / toenail scissors. – Antiseptic creams. – Cotton wool pads. – Muscle pain relief gels.

Insect bites – Antihistamine creams and tablets. – Allergy tablets for allergic reactions. – Deet free mosquito repellent (i.e. Incognito ). – Insect bite anti itch gel.

Feeling poorly – Diarrhoea relief tables. – Or, mild laxatives for constipation relief. – Headache tablets. – Vitamins (especially Vitamin C) in case of lowered immune system. – Throat lozenges for sore throats. – Decongestant nasal sprays / creams. – Pain and fever medicine. – Vapour rub – One for the girls – Cystitis relief tablets and creams. – Bonjela for mouth ulcer pain relief.

Sunburns – Aloe-based after sun to apply to burns. – Waterproof suncream (with high UVA and UVB protection) to prevent burns. Ideally 30+.

BENEFITS OF THIS 2 PCS FIRST AID MEDICAL BAG :

• Stylish, compact shape.
• Waterproof exterior.
• Comes in a variety of different colours to suit your aesthetic.
• Built in compartments for organisation.
• Very affordable (two items for under £10)!

Click for product link to this 2 Pcs First Aid Medical Bag! 🩹💊

HIKING BOOT BAG

Undoubtedly, the most annoying thing to pack up every time are your bulky hiking boots. Delighting in getting down and dirty travelling adventures will leave your boots filthy!

To avoid having to make them squeaky clean every time to not ruin the innards of your backpack and all your other belongings, a boots bag is perfect to keep them separate.

Likewise, if you are struggling for space in your backpack, simply carry your boots separately with the strong webbing carry handle whilst moving from place to place!

BENEFITS OF A HIKING BOOTS BAG :

• Waterproof design made from tough 600D polyester.
• Comes in multiple colour ways!
• Reinforced base with rubber stud feet.
• Strong webbing carry handle.
• Dimensions: 33 x 21 x 20 cm.

Click for product link to this hiking boots bag! 🥾

MICROFIBRE TOWEL

Two words that’ll change your travel life – Microfibre towels! The second most annoying thing to pack everyday are your towels.

Towels are usual a bulky item that you’ll constantly be worrying about getting dry to not stink out the rest of your clothes. This where microfibre towels come in, they really are a lifesaver.

BENEFITS OF MICROFIBRE TOWELS :

• Insanely thin and lightweight, making them a dream to pack in your backpack.
• The microfibre material means this towel dries out incredibly quickly – 3x faster than a regular towel!
• Brace yourself – sand does not stick to these towels! With just a shake down, your towel (and the rest of your backpack) will remain sand free!
• Can have multifunctional uses, from beach towels to a bath towel.
• Comes in a range of bold designs!

Click for product link to Nomandia microfibre towels! 🧖

UNDERCOVER MONEY BELT

Another incredibly helpful accessory to buy for your first backpacking trip is a flat undercover money belt.

Not only will it give you immediate access to items without taking off your daypack, the flat nature of the product means you can wear it underneath your clothes tight to your body.

This means you can easily keep any valuables i.e. phone, cash, passport close to you at all times without being on display.

BENEFITS OF AN UNDERCOVER MONEY BELT :

• Thin and lightweight, easy to conceal against your skin underneath your clothing.
• RFID Blocking technology.
• Multiple pockets inside to compartmentalise phone, loose money, credit cards, etc.
• Premium and durable material.

Click for product link to undercover money belt! 🥋

TOOTHBRUSH SILICONE CAPS

Who knew something so small could make such a difference? A few toothbrush silicone caps are a must-have to protect your toothbrush from picking up germs or getting bits stuck to it from your backpack.

We quite like these breathable silicone caps, nice colours and super affordable :

BENEFITS OF A TOOTHBRUSH SILICONE CAP :

• Breathable silicone caps, keeps toothbrush fresh.
• Comes in a range on colour ways.
• Super affordable (just over £3 for a pack of 5).

Click for product link to toothbrush silicone caps! 🪥

PORTABLE BATTERY CHARGER

Constantly using your phone for capturing photos, videos and using offline maps (for example), you will be running your phone battery down very quickly.

Don’t caught out and make sure you always carry a fully charged battery-pack charger in case of emergencies!

Click for product link to battery power banks! 🔋📲

10 TIPS FOR YOUR FIRST BACKPACKING TRIP

Tip 1: pack your backpack, then take out half of it.

This is the most common mistake most people make on their first backpacking trip (including us)!

No matter how many times people tell you ‘don’t pack too much’, that inner nagging voice – the one telling you to fill every spare crevice until your backpack is bulging – always seems to win!

After you’ve settled into travelling, you will get in this wonderful non-materialistic mindset where you don’t really care what you wear, and you’ll find you will wear 2 or 3 comfortable outfits over and over.

Not convinced? Think of it like this:

• You can always wash your clothes out there! Most hostels or accommodations have on-site washing and drying facilities for a small fee!
• Use the local laundrettes! Your clothes will come back smelling divine, all folded and ironed for a very small fee, and you will be supporting local businesses! Or, if you’re on a tight budget, you can always wash your own clothes in the bath / sink, especially small items, such as undies and socks.

• The less you pack, the less your back suffers unnecessarily and the more room you’ll have for epic souvenirs!
• Unless you’re going off the face of the Earth, you can always buy clothes or most essential items when you are out there.

TIP 2: PACK CORRECTLY FOR THE CLIMATE

Make sure you do your quick research on the expected temperatures across all the places you intend to visit. If you are heading to toasty and humid South East Asia, a thick coat and scarf are going to be a waste of time!

It’s also worth finding out if your destination has a ‘rainy season’ to make sure you are fully prepared for all weathers (i.e. a lightweight travel raincoat ).

We always recommend bringing just one spare jumper or fleece if you encounter a cold night!

TIP 3: INVEST IN GOOD TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is one thing you should never go cheap on when you go travelling. Make sure you invest in a premium package that covers you for all eventualities, including sickness and major injury.

It’s incredibly likely you will not need it, but if you did, you’ll have the peace of mind you’ll be safely insured and correctly covered.

Make sure you specify the correct dates of travel, even adding a few days extra from start to finish in case of airport delays etc.

Likewise, if you decide to extend your backpacking trip, be sure to extend your insurance to match. It would be sod’s law that something will happen when you are not insured.

TIP 4: TRY NOT TO HAVE A RIGID TRAVEL ITINERARY

This one I am very guilty of, who doesn’t love a good itinerary? We would recommend of course researching top things to do in certain areas and book some trips in advance to avoid disappointment (i.e. Uluru tours in the Outback for example).

However, we would leave the rest of your trip relatively loose and see what spontaneous events each day brings!

TIP 5: CREDIT CARD WITH NO INTERNATIONAL CHARGES

This one is also incredibly important. Travelling for a long period of time to multiple places, it’s going to become problematic having wads of different currencies stuffed in your backpack.

Of course, we would recommend having a small amount of each currency in cash for emergencies, or for more remote areas where an ATM isn’t easily accessible (i.e. remote islands). Collect this money before you travel, as international banks usually charge you every time you withdraw money from a bank!

You will find most “non-remote” places however should mostly accept card anywhere. When we visited Australia and New Zealand for example, we had no cash on us whatsoever! We always used our card.

It is important to sign up for a credit card that is specifically set up to have no international travel fees. This privilege however does usually come with a price, a much higher interest rate if you were to not pay the required balance back on time.

The key takeaway is as long as you are sensible, stick within your budget and pay the full monthly balance required back in time via online banking – it is a great and simple tool to have!

TIP 6: SAVE SO MUCH MONEY BY COOKING YOUR OWN FOOD

One way to save an incredible amount of money on your first backpacking trip (particularly when travelling to more expensive countries such as Australia and New Zealand) is by buying your own food from local supermarkets.

Most hostels have shared kitchen facilities to use for free, likewise you could treat yourself to an accommodation with a private kitchenette, or at least a kettle and microwave.

This means, when you do go out for dinner it will be a special occasion, and you won’t be resentful for the amount of money you would have otherwise wasted!

This is less applicable to places like South East Asia or Indonesia (i.e. Bali for example), where to eat out is actually very cheap and by doing so, you will be helping out local businesses.

TIP 7: AVOID TAP WATER & ICE IN LESS DEVELOPED COUNTRIES

Travelling to less developed countries (again, like Indonesia or South East Asia) comes with a slight cost of untreated tap water.

Drinking this tap water, or equally consuming frozen ice made from tap water could make you incredibly sick and has the potential to ruin a good chunk of your first backpacking trip.

To avoid this as much as you can we suggest:

• Always have a bottle of water on you, ideally a re-usable one. It is important you do keep fully hydrated day to day, and having a bottle on you allows you to fill up with treated drinking water.
• Brush your teeth using bottled drinking water. No really, don’t even use the water to brush your teeth, as you will still be putting yourself at risk.
• Try not to swallow the water when showering. Of course this water is fine to shower in (it’s not acid!) but just try not to swallow any, for the same reasons above.
• Do not eat fruit that have been washed in tap water. We did accidentally in Bali and well, the few days that ensued after we still try to fully erase from our memory! Your safest bet is eating fruit with a protective skin (i.e. bananas, oranges).

This tip is less relevant in developed countries such as Australia and New Zealand, whose water mains are predominantly treated and safe to drink, like in the UK.

TIP 8: OCCASIONALLY TREAT YOURSELF TO NICE ACCOMMODATION

Though hostels are great for budgeting on your first time backpacking, be sure to book a nicer hotel room every 4 to 5 days if you can.

It doesn’t have to be The Ritz by any means, but you will be so grateful for the privacy and added bit of comfort, giving you a night or so to rest properly. After all, always being on the go can also be very tiring!

After all, while of course being budget conscious is important, you want to enjoy every aspect of your first backpacking trip!

TIP 9: STAY VIGILANT AND KEEP PERSONAL SAFETY IN MIND

Backpacking for the first time can be a thrilling and enlightening experience, though if you are not careful, can also be dangerous.

To avoid putting yourself in these types of situations, try not to excessively drink or make yourself vulnerable, especially if you are a solo traveller or not travelling with trusted friends.

Likewise, always keep all your super valuable items close to you and concealed. This is where our previously mentioned undercover money belt comes in handy!

TIP 10: PICK A TRAVELLER FRIENDLY DESTINATION

If this is your first backpacking trip, it is best to start with a country that is very accommodating to backpackers.

This will save you from coming face to face with an overwhelmingly unaccommodating culture shock.

Destination ideas great for first time backpackers:

• New Zealand
• Bali, Indonesia
• Gili Islands, Indonesia

GUIDED GROUP TOURS FOR FIRST TIME BACKPACKERS

Heading out solo and feeling nervous about your first backpacking trip? If you are finding the idea of doing it alone daunting, you don’t have to!

There is the option to join guided backpacking trips for beginners, where you will experience an amazing travel itinerary with a group of other travellers with an experienced local guide. This is a great way to experience a country with no stress and easily meet new friends!

From our own personal experience, the tour company we highly recommend is TruTravels .

We went on their 9 Day “Komodo Island Hopping” tour during our first backpacking trip, and had a brilliant time with them!

TruTravels offer tours across South East Asia, Europe, Latin America and now Oceania to people of all ages, though the majority are a younger crowd between 18 to mid 30’s, with a good mix of solo travellers, groups of friends and couples.

Some of their best tours that we think you would love are:

CONCLUSION: YOUR FIRST BACKPACKING TRIP IN 2024

In conclusion, if you are heading out on your first backpacking trip abroad this year, this of course might feel slightly alien to you or out of your comfort zone. We know we felt the same before we embarked on our backpacking trip!

However, believe us when we say your first time backpacking is a freeing and revolutionary experience. You truly realise that you really don’t need half of what you think you do in life, and whatever is in your backpack is all you need!

Again, we highly recommend our personally used Osprey Farpoint 70L Backpack (with detachable daypack), as this is all you really need. They really are great and reliable backpacks.

Whether you are heading out by yourself, with friends or as a couple, an easier backpacker friendly destination is recommend at the very start just to get your confidence up!

A guided group tour is a brilliant way to warm yourself up to the backpacking life, complete with that added security and the chance to meet lots of new backpacking friends who are in the same boat. asyou!

We truly hope you have the most incredible time backpacking for the first time. We love to hear your travel stories, so if this post has been helpful in any way, do get it contact and let us know. We would love to hear from you!

This blog post was written by… Jordie Flain! Founder of TheFlainsTravel.com, Travel Itinerary Creator & Wildlife Enthusiast

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Jordie Flain is the owner and author of The Flains Travel, a travel blog with emphasis on ethical wildlife experiences, "seen to be believed" natural beauty and "real magic" phenomena, such as the northern lights. Jordie crafts every itinerary and post to perfection for travellers to follow and get the very most out of their time in a destination.

9 Best Travel Companies for Walking Tours and Hiking Tours in 2024

Enjoy some of the world's most beautiful landscapes at the speed of your own two feet..

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There’s something extra special about seeing someplace on foot the way you do on a walking tour, hiking tour, or guided trek. Maybe it’s the slower pace and the ability to actually admire sights you might just zip by in a car, bus, or train. Maybe it’s the easy opportunity for connections and conversations with local people. Or maybe it’s being out in the fresh air, enjoying and appreciating the natural setting of the location you’re visiting.

It’s probably some combination of all three that make walking tours, trekking tours, and hiking tours a popular way to travel. Whether you prefer an easygoing amble, a moderate hike, or a challenging summit, there are some great foot-fueled tours from hiking tour companies that explore famous locales and off-the-beaten-path spots all over the world. Here are my picks for the nine best travel companies offering walking tours and guided hiking trips.

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1. G Adventures

Small group tour specialist G Adventures  places a special focus on creating guided trips that benefit the destinations visited. The company offers a big range of hiking and trekking tours that let you experience iconic destinations in an active way . Many of these trips are physically challenging excursions, like the  Trans Bhutan Trail and trekking tours in places like  Nepal , Patagonia , and the  Alps . Hiking tours with G Adventures take you all over the world, too, from  Southern Iceland  and  Northern Greece  to  Alaska  and U.S. national parks.

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Tour descriptions feature a handy “Is this tour for me?” section that includes the physical rating, service level of accommodations, and visa requirements. Hiking and trekking tours can be filtered by budget, destination, and service and physical levels. And if this kind of travel is new to you, the G Adventures website has answers to commonly asked questions about its hiking and trekking tours, like the effects of altitude and where and how you’ll sleep. 

Quick Facts about Hiking Tours and Trekking Tours with G Adventures

• Average guided tour group size: 10 to 12 people.
• Price range: Pricing varies, with most tours in the $1,000 to $5,000 range.
• What’s included:  Accommodations, some meals, staff and guides.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip airfare, some meals.
• Primary audience: Standard tours are open to adults and children ages 12 years or older when accompanied by a parent. Family Adventures are open to families with children between six and 17 years of age. The company also offers tours just for  18-to-30-somethings .
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Central America, Europe, Middle East, New Zealand, North America, and South America.

2. Explore Worldwide

Adventure travel company Explore Worldwide  has four decades of experience leading immersive, once-in-a-lifetime trips featuring well-crafted itineraries, top local guides, small group sizes, and a commitment to responsible travel. More than 400 tour options take you to 120 countries on all seven continents. Explore offers a range of small-group guided walking tours and trekking tours in locations around the world . Expert guides lead the walks along the planned-out routes, and Explore takes care of elements like accommodations and luggage transfers.

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Walking tours are available at different activity levels so you can choose one that best matches your interests and physical abilities. Easy to moderate options in 2024 include a walking and wine tasting tour of Spain and Portugal , a walking holiday on the Amalfi Coast , and a walking tour of Jordan’s Spice Trails . More challenging treks and bucket-list-types of trips include  Kilimanjaro  and  Mont Blanc  trips. 

In addition to detailed information included in the description for each tour (activity level, information on accommodations and meals, daily itineraries, etc.), the active travel company also offers lots of insight about walking, trekking, and hiking tours in general on its website. You can find answers to  seven common questions about walking vacations and other advice and guidance. 

Quick Facts about Walking Tours and Trekking Tours with Explore Worldwide

• Average guided tour group size: 12 guests.
• Price range: Explore’s walking tours and trekking tours start at $530 per person and go up to $7,650, with most in the $2,000 to $5,000 range.
• What’s included: Accommodations, meals (number of meals vary by tour), tour excursions, leaders and guides.
• What’s not included: Flights to and from tour start/end points (there is an option to purchase them through Explore), some meals, gratuities, and optional excursions
• Primary audience: Solo travelers, couples, and friends who like small group travel and active vacations. Explore guests tend to range from 40 to 70 years of age; about 65% of attendees are female and about 65% are solo travelers.
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, New Zealand, North America, and South America.

3. Intrepid Travel

In its more than 30 years in business,  Intrepid Travel  has taken guests on thousands of trips to all seven continents with a commitment to responsible travel. That means focusing on things like community-based tourism, animal welfare, diversity and inclusion, and climate change when planning trips and itineraries.

The company offers a range of walking tours that allow you to explore destinations on foot in a way that works best for you, e.g., walking, hiking, or trekking. Walking tours travel on defined tracks and smooth surfaces, and you don’t need any special equipment or preparation. Hiking tours take to trails, mountainsides, and other rugged terrain and make for a great in-between option. Trekking tours travel to remote destinations on challenging terrain that requires both specialized equipment and the ability to rough it. 

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Intrepid also offers creative alternatives to overcrowded trekking routes. For example, the 12-day Great Inca Road  trek avoids the highly popular Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and brings tourism to new communities along a less-traveled trekking route in Peru. Other good options for walkers, hikers, and trekkers include the company’s tours along  Camino de Santiago , treks to  Everest Base Camp  and  Kilimanjaro , and hiking tours of  U.S. national parks .

You can search trips by region and activity types, and tour descriptions include info on itineraries and inclusions as well as helpful sections labeled “Is this trip right for you?” and “Why you’ll love this trip” to assist with choosing the right adventure. There’s also a  FAQs section  that answers common questions about these kinds of tours and lots of  reviews  for firsthand traveler insight.

Quick Facts about Hiking Tours and Trekking Tours with Intrepid Travel

• Average guided tour group size: 12 people.
• Price range: Prices vary widely; the average price for a 12-day tour is $3,000.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transportation during the tour, most meals, included activities, leaders and guides, and all hiking permits.
• What’s not included: Airfare and travelers’ insurance.
• Primary audience: Tours attract all audiences; there’s an age minimum of 15.
• Destinations: Africa, the Americas, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, and the Middle East.

4. The Natural Adventure Company

Founded in the United Kingdom in 2009 by a pair of avid adventurers and explorers,  The Natural Adventure Company  aims to make walking holidays and cycling vacations financially accessible for travelers interested in exploring areas in a nature-focused way. Most of its tours are self-guided, with itineraries that include stays in small, locally owned accommodations and an emphasis on responsible tourism.

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Popular 2024 walking tours from the company include a self-guided tour of the  trails of the Albanian Alps , a self-guided journey along  Portugal’s coastal Fishermen’s Trail , and a privately guided walking holiday in Morocco . Newer offerings for folks who like to travel by foot range from self-guided walking tours in  the Balkans  and the  Swiss and Italian Alps  to a two-week guided tour of the  Corsica GR20 long-distance walking trail . 

Online tour descriptions include a day-by-day itinerary and information on what to expect in terms of everything from accommodations and meals to level of difficulty, terrain, and weather conditions. Reviews from past travelers and photo galleries provide further insight on the trips. You can search tours by destination or holiday type, then further filter by difficulty grade. All walking tours include accommodations, transport, luggage transfers, support from the tour company, and suggestions for food and activities. Some tours also include meals.

Quick Facts about Walking and Hiking Tours with The Natural Adventure Company

• Average guided tour group size: Most tours are self-guided. Guided tours tend to range from eight to 10 guests.
• Price range: Tour prices start at around $300 and average about $1,200.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transport, luggage transfers (as per itinerary), 24/7 phone support. Some tours also include meals.
• What’s not included: Air, train, or bus fare to the destination; connecting transfers; meals not mentioned in itinerary; travel insurance (required); and local tourist taxes.
• Primary audience: Participants on these tours tend to be active and outdoorsy, digitally savvy, and in their 40s and up. Most travel with a partner, but some travel with a family member, friend, or solo.
• Destinations: The majority of the company’s tours are in Europe, but it also offers tours in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. 

5. Exodus Travels

Exodus Travels  led some of the first group trekking trips through the Nepalese Himalaya more than 45 years ago, and today that legacy lives on. The company offers a range of walking and trekking tours  around the world led by experienced trekkers and local guides. Exodus operates in more than 100 countries and focuses on low-impact tourism and contributing to local communities. Walking and trekking tours are available at several different activity levels, from leisurely and moderate trips to challenging and extremely difficult treks.

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Tour groups often stay in locally owned accommodations, and the company’s guided (and self-guided) walking tours allow you to really connect with a destination at your own pace and with a low carbon footprint. Popular tour options include a walking tour of Italy’s Prosecco Hills , a classic trek along Peru’s Inca Trail , and an  Everest Base Camp trek . Newer walking and trekking tour offerings include a coastal walking tour in the French Riviera , a self-guided walking tour on Malta , and a walking excursion on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast . 

Tour descriptions detail daily itineraries and distances traveled each day, information about the local weather and terrain, and reviews from past participants. In addition to filtering the company’s walking and trekking tours by activity level, you can search trips by types of adventure (summits, coastal walks, etc.), price range, and destination. 

Quick Facts about Walking Tours and Hiking Tours with Exodus Travels

• Average guided tour group size: Four to 16 guests.
• Price range: Tours average $2,000 to $4,000 per person.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals, airport transfers in destination, services of a local guide, some gratuities, admission to any sites on the itinerary, and any specialized gear needed.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip airfare, some meals, and some gratuities.
• Primary audience: Travelers who like to move. Tours with an activity level of one (leisurely) just require that you be healthy enough for a standard weekend walk. Moderate trips require a basic fitness level since there will be some walking at higher altitude and occasional longer/harder days. Challenging and tough tours require a high level of fitness and often previous experience. 

6. Boundless Journeys

When  Boundless Journeys  puts together its small-group travel tours, it aims to create trips featuring active itineraries, cultural encounters, and authentic experiences. Local guides bring destination-specific knowledge and insight to the tours, and the company has appeared multiple times among the Top 10 World’s Best Tour Operators in  Travel + Leisure ’s World’s Best Awards. The company’s hiking and walking tours allow you to immerse yourself in a destination by seeing it on foot. Local guides take you to the best trails and walking routes in the region. Accommodations are locally run hotels and inns, mountain lodges, and seaside resorts.

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The  Tour du Mont Blanc adventure rates as the company’s most-popular waking and hiking tour, taking you through the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps and stopping to admire sweeping vistas and small Alpine villages along the way. Other options include a walking tour of the lesser-known villages and coastline of  Italy’s Puglia region  and a tour that includes hiking along Japan’s Nakasendo Trail  (a historic inn-to-inn walking route linking Kyoto and Tokyo). Trekking tours are also available for a more challenging experience . 

Walking tour descriptions include detailed itineraries, the activity level of each trip, and a “What to Expect” section with a range of information about the destination and the tour. Tours range in duration from seven to 13 days and extensions are offered in certain destinations.

Quick Facts about Walking Tours and Hiking Tours with Boundless Journeys

• Average guided tour group size: Eight to 10 people.
• Price range: Depending on the length of the tour, location, and the type of tour, prices range from $4,895 per person based on double occupancy to $9,895. 
• What’s included: Accommodations, guides, all on-tour transportation, all activities noted in the itinerary, entrance fees, all or most meals.
• What’s not included: International flights to and from destinations, optional meals and activities.
• Primary audience: Boundless Journeys guests tend to be well-educated, well-traveled, active individuals; generally hail from North America; and range in age from 40s to 70s.
• Destinations: Asia, Europe, Latin America, New Zealand, and North America.

7. Backroads

Active travel outfitter Backroads  has been a force in adventure travel since 1979, leading walking tours, hiking tours, biking tours, and multi-adventure tours all around the world. The company offers more than 130 walking and hiking trip itineraries  that take you through rugged spots like  Alaska  and  Patagonia  and scenic locales like  Cinque Terre  and the  Cotswolds . Walking and hiking tours are offered at many different activity levels and for different kinds of travelers.

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Dolce Tempo tours  move at a more leisurely pace and are well-suited for novices to active travel. Some walking and hiking tours are available for families with older teenagers or kids in their 20s, while others are best suited for adults with a strong fitness level. Tours include almost everything, and accommodations range from casual hotels to more luxurious lodging options. Small group sizes make for a more intimate experience and guides help travelers find the best views and special spots along the way.

Quick Facts about Active Tours with Backroads

• Average guided tour group size:  Backroads hiking and walking trips average 16 guests with a maximum of 20 in the U.S.
• Price range: Prices vary depending on destination and trip length, starting around $2,999 per person double occupancy four a four-day trip.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals, trip leaders and guides, private guided tours at some sites, all gratuities at hotels and restaurants, special events (like wine tastings) mentioned in the tour itinerary, park and other entry fees, transportation during the tour, and baggage transfers and porterage.
• What’s not included: Airfare, alcohol, and trip leader gratuity.
• Primary audience: Participants range from couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers to families with older teenagers or kids in their 20s.
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, and North America.

8. Country Walkers

Walking tour company Country Walkers  took its first steps as a tour operator out of an old barn in Vermont in 1979. Today the company helps travelers explore the world on foot in destinations near and far, with a focus on authentic travel and local engagement. The company offers two types of experiences for travelers. Small-group guided walking tours take you beyond just the usual spots for hands-on experiences and connections with members of the local community. For self-guided walking tours, Country Walkers takes care of all the logistics and planning so you can explore at your own pace. 

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Local restaurants and small, family-owned or locally based accommodations are part of the equation no matter which option you choose, part of the company’s commitment to sustainable travel, responsible tourism, and the slow food movement. Tours are classified by activity level and range from anyone-can-do-it easy walking tours to challenging excursions where you’ll walk for miles each day, sometimes at high elevations. Each tour description includes information on daily mileage as well as reviews from past travelers to help guests choose the best fit for them.

Options in 2024 include self-guided tours of the  Portugal coast  and  England’s Cotswolds region  and guided walking excursions of  Italy’s Puglia coast ,  Greece , and  Norway’s fjords . Country Walkers offers a number of guest benefits, from the option to book air travel along with the tour to a referral program, plus options for solo travelers.

Quick Facts about Walking Tours with Country Walkers

• Average guided tour group size: About 18 people.
• Price range: Tours range from $2,098 to $8,798 per person, double occupancy.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals, and guides or access to assistance for self-guided tours.
• What’s not included: Airfare to and from the destination, airport car service. (You can choose to book a flight-tour combo through Country Walkers to get these and other add-ons.)
• Primary audience: Country Walkers’ main demographic is travelers ages 55 to 80. But the company also welcomes people traveling with their adult children and/or teenage grandchildren. 
• Destinations: Africa, Asia and South Pacific, Europe, Middle East, North America, and South America.

9. World Expeditions

World Expeditions  took its first group of trekkers to Nepal in 1975. Since then, it’s become a go-to operator for travelers interested in small-group active tours, responsible tourism, and “taking the path less traveled.” World Expeditions was the first operator to offer cycling holidays in India (1977) and China (1978) and trekking trips in Mongolia (1980), Tibet (1981), and Japan (1999), and is also the first to offer fully supported commercial treks along the entire length of the  Nepal section of the Great Himalaya Trail .

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The company believes that active outdoor travel helps people better experience a destination, no matter the activity level of a trip or age of a participant, and offers both  guided  and  self-guided  walking and trekking tours. On the guided excursions, expert local guides and adventurers enhance the trips with knowledge and expertise. Tours range in difficulty from introductory treks to highly challenging trips. Tour prices include the cost of accommodations, most food, and transport.

Among the company’s unique offerings are tours that help you explore the  Armenia Transcaucasian Trail and  Georgian Transcaucasian Trail  in the Caucasus Mountains. World Expeditions is one of the first operators to offer the option to trek selected sections of the long-distance Transcaucasian Trail in both countries, and you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking vistas and cultural sites along the way.

Quick Facts about Walking Tours ands Trekking Tours with World Expeditions

• Average guided tour group size:  8 to 10 people (maximum of 16).
• Price range:  Upscale, price varies greatly (World Expeditions offers hundreds of itineraries ranging from a few of days to 150 days). 
• What’s included:  Services of an expert local guide, accommodations, private transportation, most meals, sightseeing and national park fees.
• What’s not included:  International flights, alcoholic beverages, tips and gratuities, and travel insurance.
• Primary audience:  Active travelers ages 40 to 65 and older.
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Middle East, North America, and South America.

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11 Best Great Ocean Road Tours To Take In 2024

READY TO BOOK YOUR GREAT OCEAN ROAD TOUR?

Then you’ve come to the right article as I’m about to show you the 11 best Great Ocean Road tours.

The Great Ocean Road is one of the best things you can do in all of Australia, and there’s no better way to see the coastline than by taking a tour.

It’s one of my favourite days I’ve ever had, and I know how important it is to have a good tour, and how hard it can be to pick the good from the bad.

So that’s why I’ve done all the hard work for you and put together a list of the 11 best Great Ocean Road tours which I recommend.

This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps me to keep my site up and running! Read my disclaimer for more information.

🏆 EDITOR’S PICK: Best Tour = Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne with thousands of 5-star reviews. Book now!

Ready to explore the best options and book your tour? Let’s get straight into it!

My Top 3 Picks: Great Ocean Road Tour

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne ✔️ 3700+ 5 star reviews ✔️ Viator Experience Award ✔️ 14 hour tour

Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour ✔️ Beat the crowds ✔️ Max 12 people ✔️ 2200+ 5 star reviews

From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip ✔️ 9+ stops ✔️ All the iconic sights ✔️ Rainforest Walk

Best Great Ocean Road Tours

It can be hard to choose the good tours from the bad, that’s why I’ve handpicked the 11 best Great Ocean Road tours that are sure to give you an unbelievable experience without breaking the bank. Each one is packed with must-sees, from the 12 Apostles to rainforest walks, book any of these tours and you’re in for a great time.

1. Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (3700+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 14 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 6 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

The best Great Ocean Road tour is the Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne which has nearly 4000 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!

• Spot wild koalas along the way
• Experience Great Otway National Park’s rainforest and wildlife
• See iconic rock formations, including the Twelve Apostles

Have you ever dreamed of seeing the Great Ocean Road in person? Well, you might want to try the Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne to experience one of the most scenic drives in the world. 

When booking a tour, no matter what tour it is, I always like to go with the tried and tested option. Having a 5/5 rating after nearly 4000 reviews is incredible and speaks to the standard of this tour.

I personally had the best day ever and I can’t recommend it enough! It’s more than passed the test of travellers before both you and me.

What I like about this tour straight away is that it includes hotel pickup. After picking you up from your selected hotel in Melbourne, you’ll head to the coast.

Keep your eyes peeled and try to spot wild koalas in the trees. This eco-tour is focused on observing these adorable furry creatures in their natural habitat, which is honestly, the best way to experience them.

Next, you’ll explore the lush rainforest of Great Otway National Park, where you might see kangaroos and wallabies hopping around. Your guide will tell you all about the plants and animals that live here, and how they adapt to the changing seasons.

I love animals and having a guide so knowledgeable on all of the wildlife in Australia was really great!

The highlight of the tour is Port Campbell National Park, where you’ll get to see the iconic Twelve Apostles and other rock formations. They really are a sight to behold. Seeing them in real life is surreal- pictures don’t do it justice.

But speaking of pictures, you’ll be given plenty of time to take photos and take in the views.

During the tour, you’ll have the chance to stop for coffee or tea breaks. You can opt to bring your own lunch like I did because I was on a budget, or the guide will also suggest some great places to eat local food along the way.

To summarise the quality of the tour, it has a Viator Experience Award , making it one of the best tours in the whole world.

Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne is a great introduction to the Great Ocean Road with a focus on the ecology of the region, and I encourage anyone looking to take a tour to book this one.

2. Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour – Max 12 People

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (2200+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 10 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

If you want to avoid the crowds, Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour – Max 12 People is the best tour for you.

• All-day reverse beat-the-crowd tour of Victoria’s Great Ocean Road
• Knowledgeable local guide sharing history and culture
• See the formations of London Bridge, the 12 Apostles, and the Great Otway

Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour – Max 12 People is also super highly thought of, with more than 2000 5-star reviews. The quality of these tours is so impressive!

This Great Ocean Road tour is a bit different – that’s because it’s in the reverse of what most other tours offer.

But going in reverse means you aren’t going to the same places at the same time as most people, and you’ll also start your tour early to beat the crowds , and by early, I mean 7 a.m.

And you have quite a personable experience on the tour too, as it’s a small-group tour, limited to 12 people. It really feels like the guide is part of the group.

There are plenty of stops along the way including the stunning London Bridge and the Twelve Apostles. You’ll also get to explore the rugged landscape of Great Otway National Park. 

As cheesy as this sounds, this is more than a tour; it’s a journey of discovery!

The National Park fees are also included in this tour price, so there are no surprises along the way. You can choose to bring a lunch with you, however, there are plenty of stops along the way for food and drink. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or not, I highly recommend Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Boutique Tour – Max 12 People as an opportunity to explore the Great Ocean Road like never before and with minimal crowds.

3. From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip

⭐ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars (1200+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 13 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 9 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

Another really good Great Ocean Road Tour is the From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip , again with more than a thousand positive ratings!

• Small group tour along the iconic Great Ocean Road
• Spot koalas at Kennett River
• Explore the rainforest of Great Otway National Park and Shipwreck Coast
• Optional 15-minute helicopter rides offer a thrilling aerial view

Are you ready for an amazing adventure along Australia’s Great Ocean Road? If your answer is yes, then From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip is definitely made for you!

This full-day Great Ocean Road tour features a little bit of everything. You’ll see koalas in the wild at Kennett River, walk through a stunning rainforest in the Great Otway National Park, and visit the spectacular Shipwreck Coast – where you’ll visit the famous 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Gibson Step.

If you’re feeling adventurous, or are celebrating a special occasion then you opt to take a helicopter ride and fly over the coast.  It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget!

Just imagine the views you’ll get from up there! It’s a perfect example of a situation I use the quote “Money always comes back, memories are priceless.” It’s expensive, yes, but so worth it!

All of the guides for all of these tours are really friendly, but the guides on this tour even treat you to a delicious and refreshing morning cup of tea!

Your guide will also take care of everything for you from pick up and drop you off at selected hotels in Melbourne. All you have to do is turn up and enjoy this full-day immersive experience. 

If you want a deep dive into the Great Ocean Road with some unique perks, From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip this is the tour for you.

4. From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour

⭐ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars (1500+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 13.5 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 8 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

If you’re an animal-lover like me, then From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour just might be the tour you’ve been looking for! And guess what? Once again, it’s incredibly well-rated with over 1500+ positive reviews.

• Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the world’s most spectacular coastlines
• Go on a guided forest walk among the world’s tallest trees
• Encounter native koalas and parrots in their natural habitat

As a wildlife lover, I’m actually excited to tell you about From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour . Unlike the other tours I’ve mentioned, this one has an animal focus to it, where you’ll get the chance to see some of the best Australian wildlife up close.

You’ll start the tour by seeing some incredible sights along the way. Keep a look out for things like adorable koalas and colourful parrots in their natural home. Australia is famous for a lot of things, and wildlife is one of the main things.

What I also love is that you also get to walk through the rainforest with your guide pointing out various species as you go.

After your wildlife encounters, you’ll carry on to the stunning and infamous coastline. Here you’ll get to witness some of the country’s most impressive views.

You’ll stop off to see the famous landmarks, like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. And of course, you’ll get plenty of time to take photos or simply sit and take in the view. 

Everything is included on this full-day tour. You’ll get picked up from your hotel in Melbourne and enjoy a refreshing morning tea before your full adventure starts. There are plenty of options for lunch during this tour. 

If you’re a wildlife buff, then From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour is a tour you don’t want to miss!

5. Great Ocean Road Full-Day Guided Trip

⭐ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars (500+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 14 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 10 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

Great Ocean Road Full-Day Guided Trip is yet another amazing Great Ocean Road Tour. The guides are some of the funniest guides in the world on this tour!

• Enjoy a road trip along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and visit the charming town of Apollo Bay on the surf coast
• Discover the iconic Shipwreck Coast, Loch Ard Gorge, and the 12 Apostles.
• Spot koalas, and native birds, and wander amidst the lush trees and ferns

Great Ocean Road Full-Day Guided Trip covers all the classic highlights of this iconic road trip and more!

You’ll not only see stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush rainforest along this amazing route, but you’ll also visit the Shipwreck Coast, where you’ll find the 12 Apostles and the Loch Ard Gorge as well as Apollo Bay! So many bucket-list sights in just a few hours.

During this tour, you’ll also get to meet some of Australia’s cutest wildlife, like koalas and native birds. Trust me when I say that you’ll feel a special bond with nature as you walk among the tall trees and ferns of the Otway Ranges.

Taking a Great Ocean Road tour leaves you really appreciating life by the end of the day, it’s one of those types of experiences where it makes you love life.

You’ll have plenty of time to take in the vibes of Apollo Bay, a surf town with a relaxed vibe and to use ChatGPT’s favourite phrase, “a coastal charm”. You can opt to walk on the beach or soak up the local culture – the choice is up to you!

The tour includes your transportation with a knowledgeable local guide who knows everything about the area like the back of their hand. There are plenty of stops along this tour to pick up food and drink, or you could pack a picnic to have on the beach.

Great Ocean Road Full-Day Guided Trip is an excellent tour that includes all of the highlights of a Great Ocean Road trip with a few nice extras on top.

6. Boutique All-Inclusive Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles and Rainforest Experience

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (160+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 13 hours |🗻 STOPS: 10 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

If you want a really personable Great Ocean Road tour, and one that includes absolutely everything, then Boutique All-Inclusive Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles and Rainforest Experience is the tour you’ve been looking for.

• Enjoy a local cafe lunch in a charming coastal township
• Travel in style with extra legroom in a premium vehicle
• Experience the convenience of a drop-off service at your central Melbourne hotel

Boutique All-Inclusive Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles and Rainforest Experience is an amazing all-inclusive adventure that will surely provide a memorable experience and comfort at the same time!

You’ll travel in style and comfort in a Mercedes mini-van . These are not your average tour buses—they’re spacious, luxurious, and equipped with everything you need to relax. You’ll feel like a VIP as you cruise along the scenic route!

You’ll also get to taste the best of the region with a delicious cafe lunch in a charming coastal town. Whether you’re craving classic Australian fare, or something a little different, they’ve got you covered! And the best part is, it’s all included in the price .

Your guide will take care of everything for you, so you can just sit back and enjoy the ride. They’ll pick you up at your hote l or Southbank at the start and drop you off at the end of the tour at whichever location is more convenient for you.

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Boutique All-Inclusive Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles and Rainforest Experience is not your ordinary tour and is the epitome of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

7. Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers aged 18-35

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (125+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 10 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

If you’re backpacking Melbourne , then you won’t find a better tour than Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers aged 18-35 . It’s designed for younger people and solo travellers.

• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Take unlimited photo stops to capture unforgettable moments
• Experience the stunning Australian coastline and forest

Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers aged 18-35 is exclusively designed for the young and adventurous! Tailored for anyone aged 18-35, this Great Ocean Road tour ensures a vibrant and energetic day from start to finish!

You’ll start the day with a pick-me-up cup of tea or coffee to get you ready for the day ahead. Then you’ll be transported around in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and have plenty of chances to snap some awesome photos along the way.

Also, don’t be shy to ask the driver to stop whenever you see something you want to hop out and take a photo of. If there’s one thing I know about Aussies it’s that they’re very laid back , so if there’s an unplanned stop, it’s no big deal to them.

Quite the contrast from when I visited Iceland and took a Golden Circle tour and we were told off for being 1 minute late back to the bus!

You’ll head to the Australian coastline, with its iconic rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and turquoise waters.

But that’s not all, you’ll also get to visit the rainforest where you can try to spot local wildlife that lives there. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see koalas and kangaroos, so keep your eyes open!

Although the coastline is amazing, I absolutely love exploring the rainforests in the area. It’s such a diverse place, and I felt like a proper explorer walking through it.

This tour is more than just a sightseeing trip —it’s a chance to have fun, make new friends, and experience one of the world’s most famous road trips with like-minded people.

If you want to have a blast with your fellow travellers, sharing stories and laughs along the way, book the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour for Backpackers aged 18-35 .

8. Great Ocean Road Tour Plus Koalas, Forest Walk And Morning Tea

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (350+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 13 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 13 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

Great Ocean Road Tour Plus Koalas, Forest Walk And Morning Tea is one of the tours with the most stops on this list, with at least 13 named stops. But as I said, the tours are all mostly laid back and usually have a few spontaneous stops.

• Drive along the Great Ocean Road and see the 12 Apostles from different angles, including Gibson Steps
• Encounter wild koalas and parrots at Kennett River
• Enjoy lunch in Apollo Bay and have dinner in Colac savoring the local culinary delights

Great Ocean Road Tour Plus Koalas, Forest Walk And Morning Tea includes incredible sights and unforgettable experiences along the way!

One of the highlights is undoubtedly the 12 Apostles, a group of massive limestone pillars rising from the ocean. Would it really be a Great Ocean Road Tour without visiting the highlight of the National Heritage Site ?

During this tour, you’ll get to see them from different perspectives , including the Gibsons Steps, where you can feel the spray of the waves and the awe of nature.

You’ll also have the chance to spot local wildlife, like koalas and parrots, at Kennett River, a stop not included in most of these tours. It’s difficult to resist seeing these adorable creatures in their natural environment, and if you’re lucky, try to get a photo with them.

Seeing all of the animals in Australia is so much better than seeing them in zoos. It creates precious memories. I remember one time I was fortunate enough to see a platypus which is quite rare to see, it was incredible.

You’ll also stop off to enjoy delicious local food in Apollo Bay and Colac, two charming towns with great options for lunch and dinner (not included in the price). You can choose whatever you like, from fresh seafood to hearty burgers.

Morning tea is provided during the tour, along with everything else you need for a comfortable and memorable experience. All you have to do is relax and have fun on this full-day excursion!

To get unreal views of the 12 Apostles, book the Great Ocean Road Tour Plus Koalas, Forest Walk And Morning Tea today.

9. Small-Group Great Ocean Road Classic Day Tour from Melbourne

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars (200+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 13 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 7 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

If you love guides who are passionate about storytelling, then you should book the Small-Group Great Ocean Road Classic Day Tour from Melbourne .

• Experience a day trip along the Great Ocean Road
• Explore the enchanting Otway Ranges and visit the historic Cape Otway lighthouse
• Discover the tale of the Loch Ard Gorge shipwreck and wander at the majestic Twelve Apostles rock formations

If you love both landscapes and adventure, then join this full-day Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne!

The Small-Group Great Ocean Road Classic Day Tour from Melbourne begins the day with a drive through the Otway Ranges, where you’ll see giant eucalyptus trees create a fragrant and tranquil forest. Quite the unique way to start, right?

You’ll also stop at the Cape Otway lighthouse, the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia  – this one definitely holds a significant history and role in guiding ships to safety. I love the atmosphere here.

Next, you’ll visit the Loch Ard Gorge, where a shipwreck in 1878 left only two survivors. Be prepared to be moved by their story and the beauty of the gorge, with its cliffs and caves. Unfortunately, you can’t actually see the shipwreck from the surface, but the story gave me goosebumps.

You’ll then continue your journey to see the Twelve Apostles, the most famous attraction on the Great Ocean Road. It’s difficult not be stand in awe by their mighty size and shape – you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities! They’re much more impressive in real life.

Throughout the day, the guide will make your trip fun and informative, sharing their knowledge and stories along the way. I had a guide named Red and he was amazing.

And as the name suggests, the group is small too so you really get to know the guide rather than just listen to them.

If this is your first time in the area, then Small-Group Great Ocean Road Classic Day Tour from Melbourne allows you to enjoy the best that the region has to offer.

10. Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Day Trip from Melbourne

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (300+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 13 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 9 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

The penultimate Great Ocean Road tour on this list comes in the form of the Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Day Trip from Melbourne which still has remarkable reviews. Remember, these are the best of the best out of hundreds of tours, all of these options are top-class.

• A full-day tour of the Great Ocean Road to the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge
• Delicious lunch overlooking Apollo Bay, soaking in the famous coastal scenery
• Experience a temperate rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park and spot Australian wildlife in their natural habitat

Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Day Trip from Melbourne features all the typical GOR highlights.

You’ll start your adventure by visiting the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, starting the day off on a high. Here you’ll see the mighty cliffs looking out over the endless ocean. I know that you’ll be amazed by these natural wonders – it’s hard not to be – and even though it’s an unforgettable view , you’ll also have plenty of time to take photos.

Next, you’ll enjoy a tasty lunch at Apollo Bay, where you’ll get to enjoy the local cuisine whilst taking in the tranquil coastal vibe . Trust me, you’ll love the views and the atmosphere. It’s a really quaint place, I love it there. It reminds me of being home in Northern Ireland.

Then, you’ll hop back on to your transportation, enjoying the scenic drive. That’s one of the most underappreciated things about any Great Ocean Road adventure- the drive is just as beautiful as all of the stops. Even when you’re driving for an hour, it goes so quickly.

You’ll then stop at Great Otway National Park, where you’ll walk among the ancient rainforest trees , taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

You’ll hear hundreds of birds and if you’re lucky maybe spot some local wildlife! Speaking of wildlife, you’ll also get to see some of Australia’s most adorable animals, like kangaroos and koalas.

All in all, Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles Day Trip from Melbourne offers a day filled with bucket list experiences, that offer memories you’ll cherish forever.

11. Great Ocean Road (12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge) 1-Day Tour

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (100+ reviews) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 12-13 hours | 🗻 STOPS: 9 or more | 🌊 BOOK NOW

Last but by no means least of these Great Ocean Road tours is the Great Ocean Road (12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge) 1-Day Tour and it really is a case of “last but not least” as it still has more than 100 positive reviews.

• Spectacular coastal views along the Great Ocean Road, including the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge
• Complimentary chocolate and ice cream tastings at the renowned Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery
• Spot cute koalas, and visit historical landmarks like the Memorial Arch, and the charming seaside town of Apollo Bay

Do you love adventure, nature, and… chocolate? Then you’ll love Great Ocean Road (12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge) 1-Day Tour .

You’ll start your day with a sweet stop at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, where you can enjoy free samples of chocolate and ice cream. Yum!!! How many people include that on their Great Ocean Road itinerary ? Not many, but more should!

Next, you’ll see the Memorial Arch , a beautiful tribute to the people who built this incredible road. Again, another unique stop, but this is why I love this tour- it goes beyond the “must-dos”.

After the memorial, you’ll watch the surfers in action at Lorne, a famous beach break where the ocean meets the land. 

For lunch, you’ll have some time to explore Apollo Bay, a lovely seaside town with lots of options for places to eat to suit your taste and budget. 

After that, you’ll visit the Loch Ard Gorge, a stunning site with a sad story of a shipwreck. Be prepared to be moved as your guide tells you its fascinating history. As I said earlier, the story gives me goosebumps every time.

Finally, you’ll get to visit the infamous Twelve Apostles with plenty of time to take photos before heading back to Melbourne.

What an amazing day Great Ocean Road (12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge) 1-Day Tour offers- it’s extraordinary.

Great Ocean Road Tours: FAQ

Below are some FAQs related to these Great Ocean Road tours along with my answer to each question.

Not at all! You can drive the Great Ocean Road on your own. This way, you have the freedom to stop wherever you want and for as long as you like. But if you don’t want to drive or plan the trip yourself, a tour can be a great choice too.

There are eight of the 12 Apostles still standing. Even though they’re called the ’12’ Apostles, there were only nine to begin with. The ocean is slowly but surely wearing them down, but they’re still an amazing sight.

Yes, a Great Ocean Road tour is worth it if you want to sit back and enjoy the ride without the stress of driving or planning. On a tour, you get to hear cool stories and facts about the places you’re seeing too. It’s also a fun way to meet other travellers.

Great Ocean Road Tours: Conclusion

And there you have it, a complete list of the best Great Ocean Road tours.

Remember, the best tour is the Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne with thousands of 5-star ratings.

But no matter which of these tours you decide to take, you’ll have the most amazing time. The Great Ocean Road does not disappoint!

Now that you’ve got one of your days planned for your trip to Melbourne, why not plan another day and take a hot air balloon tour over the city?

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

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The 10 Best Backpacker Bus Tours in New Zealand 🎒 [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, which new zealand backpacker bus tour to choose.

Want to see New Zealand on an adventure-packed tour with a bunch of like-minded travellers? Then you need to jump on a backpacker bus tour. Don’t worry, New Zealand has heaps and probably a lot more than you realised! From super flexible hop-on hop-off bus tours around the country to hassle-free all-inclusive tours, there’s an amazing selection to give you the trip of a lifetime. We go through them all in this comparison of the best backpacker bus tours in New Zealand!

Most of the backpacker bus tours in this list offer multiple tours just exploring the North Island or the South Island or just a bit off both if you are on super limited time. We suggest taking a look at all the offerings of each backpacker bus company. However, to make this comparison as easy to follow as possible, we have compared each backpacker bus company’s biggest tours around New Zealand.

For more information on the types of buses available in New Zealand, take a look at Travel by Bus in New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide .

5 Things to Compare Between the New Zealand Backpacker Buses

We believe that there is no “best” backpacker bus company, as we are all looking for different travel experiences. However, it’s almost impossible to not have a blast on every single one of these bus tours. But to help you make the best decision for yourself, here are a few tips!

1. Compare the Type of Tour

Are you a fully independent traveller that wants a cheap way to travel ? Choose a coach network. Do you want some flexibility to leave the tour to make the most of an extended trip to New Zealand or working holiday ? Choose a hop-on hop-off bus. Or do you want an experience with the least organising to do as possible and just want to make the most of your limited time in New Zealand? Choose an all-inclusive bus tour!

2. Compare the Activities and Accommodations

You’ll get the best value for money if the tour includes activities that you want to do or at least gives you the option to. If accommodation is important to you, then compare accommodations, as some will be in tents, hostels, hotels, cabins and more. Is there a chance to upgrade to a private room if you want to?

3. Compare What the Passengers are Like

Taking a backpacker bus tour is a social experience and you’re bound to meet some amazing people! People often make (or break) the experience. We’ll do our best to tell you what type of passengers to expect on each tour in the comparison below.

4. Compare the Destinations Visited

Does the bus company visit the New Zealand locations on your bucket list? Remember, even if they don’t stay the night in every destination around New Zealand, it’s likely that they will pass through giving you enough time to at least quickly visit. All the destinations in the comparison below are where the buses stay overnight.

5. Compare Prices

Prices are important, right?! We’re not made of money! With all the inclusions taken into consideration, is the price worth it? A trick we like to do is to divide the price by the number of minimum travel days on a bus pass – the result will give you a better idea of how much you are paying for the bus pass and its inclusions per day. For more advice on budgeting for a bus trip, see our 5 Tips to Save Money on a Bus Tour in New Zealand .

The Best Way to Compare Backpacker Buses

To compare most bus tours offered in New Zealand you can use TourRadar which combines most operators under one roof. It will help you set the length of your trip as well as other criteria and give you a list of tours that best match you. Using TourRadar along with our reviews below you should be able to pick the best match for you in no time. Plus, prices are often discounted!

Backyard Roadies

Type of tour: all-inclusive bus tour.

Backyard Roadies runs bus tours following a set route around the country. Accommodations and all breakfasts are included, as well as a few dinners. Some activities are included in the pass with options to add on paid experiences. The ferry crossing between islands on the national pass is also included. For more information, head straight to backyardroadies.com .

Activities with Backyard Roadies

Paid activities are on an optional pay-as-you-go scheme which you book with your driver. There are some paid activities included in the pass, such as a Maori cultural show and hangi dinner at Te Puia , a private sailing cruise on Lake Taupo , a Milford Sound cruise, a greenstone carving workshop in Franz Josef and more. There’s also the opportunity to do free activities like hikes and stop by free attractions along the way.

Accommodation and Food with Backyard Roadies

Accommodations are also included in the form of locally-run hostels and lodges where you will share a room with fellow passengers. What’s more, breakfast is included each day, as well as approximately four lunches/dinners throughout their full national tour.

Typical Passengers on Wild Kiwi

Backyard Roadies passengers are 18-40+ years old. In other words, they welcome just about anyone looking for a fun small-group adventure. There is a range of nationalities, usually from Europe, Australia, the Americas, Asia and even New Zealanders. Group sizes are kept small with up to a maximum of 16 passengers.

Destinations Visited with Backyard Roadies

There are multiple passes to suit travellers’ different travel times. Backyard Roadies’ full national bus pass has a minimum travel time of 21 days hitting the following locations:

• Taupo / Tongariro
• River Valley ( Taihape )
• Christchurch
• Lake Tekapo (with Mt Cook day trip)
• Lake Te Anau (with Milford Sound day trip)
• Queenstown (with Arrowtown day trip)
• Franz Josef
• Arthur’s Pass (day trip)

Typical Prices

The full price for a national pass (21 days) with Backyard Roadies  is NZ$5,632 per person.

Wild Kiwi runs bus tours following a set route around the country. Accommodations and all breakfasts are included, as is one group dinner per week of travel. Some activities are included in the pass with options to add on paid activities. Flights between islands on the national pass are also included. For more information, see our guide to Wild Kiwi or head straight to wildkiwi.com .

Activities with Wild Kiwi

Paid activities are on an optional pay-as-you-go scheme which you book with your driver. There are some paid activities included in the pass, such as the breathtaking geothermal park of Wai-O-Tapu and wine tasting in Marlborough . There’s also the opportunity to do free activities like hikes and stop by free attractions along the way.

Accommodation and Food with Wild Kiwi

Accommodations are also included in the form of hostels and cabins where you will share a room with fellow passengers. Private room upgrades are available at an additional cost. What’s more, breakfast is also included each day, as well as one group dinner per week of travel (so if you travel for the full three weeks you get three group dinners).

Wild Kiwi passengers are 18-30-somethings. In other words, they welcome anyone up until their late 30s. There is a range of nationalities, usually from Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas. Group sizes are kept small with up to 18 passengers.

Destinations Visited with Wild Kiwi

There are multiple passes to suit travellers’ different travel times. Wild Kiwi’s full national bus pass has a minimum travel time of 21 days hitting the following locations:

• Marlborough
• Abel Tasman
• Lake Tekapo

The full price for a national pass (21 days) with Wild Kiwi is NZ$5,887 per person.

Haka Tours ‘ bus tours follow set routes around the country with specialised tours in snowsports, mountain biking and adventure. They also offer private tours and premium tours with extra comforts. They have a set of tours for 18 to 49-year-olds and tours for 30 to 70-year-olds. Accommodations and breakfasts are included. Some activities are included in the passes with options to add on paid activities.

Activities with Haka Tours

Paid activities are optional for either pre-booking before the tour or on a pay-as-you-go scheme during the tour. There are a few paid activities included in the tours (depending on which tour you choose), such as mountain bike rentals, ski field lift passes, Maori hangi experience, Maori cultural night, pounamu/greenstone carving and more. There are always free activities such as hikes and stopping at free attractions along the way.

Accommodation and Food with Haka Tours

Accommodation and breakfasts are already arranged, with the accommodation being twin-share rooms in 3-4-star hotels on their Haka Plus Tours and in 4-6-bed dorms on all other tours. Accommodation upgrades are available. Breakfasts are included but all other meals are at your own expense.

Typical Passengers on Haka Tours

Haka Tours does a good job and making sure passengers are either with a younger or older crowd, depending on what you prefer. Their “ Adventure Tours ” are set for 18-49 years old, while their “ Haka Plus Tours ” are for 30-70 years old. Passengers are usually from the UK, the US and Australia. Group sizes are an average of 12 people with a maximum of 16. Around 70% of passengers on Haka Tours are travelling solo.

Destinations Visited with Haka Tours

There are multiple passes to suit travellers’ different travel times and interests, particularly snowsports and mountain biking. Haka Tours’ full national bus pass has a minimum travel time of 23 days hitting the following locations:

• MacKenzie Country

Typical Price of Haka Tours

The price for a full national pass with Haka Tours is approximately NZ$5,700 for Adventure Tours (20 days) and NZ$9,700 for Haka Plus Tours (20 days).

Flying Kiwi

Type of tour: all-inclusive hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Flying Kiwi is mainly travelled as a set bus tour taking one set route around the country. Food (mainly breakfast and dinner) is included as well as camping accommodation. However, there is the option to “hop off” the bus anywhere along the route and then “hop on” another bus at an arranged time and date. For more information on how Flying Kiwi works, see this guide to Flying Kiwi .

Activities with Flying Kiwi

Paid activities are on an optional pay-as-you-go scheme where the bus driver will book activities and transport you to those activities. There is the odd paid activity included in the tour, such as  Marlborough wine tasting. There are always free options such as hikes and stopping at free attractions along the way. Hiring a bike is a popular option with Flying Kiwi, where the team will have your hired bike on board and stop at plenty of bike trails along the way.

Accommodation and Food on Flying Kiwi

Accommodation and food are already arranged, with the accommodation being in two-man tents, with upgrades available in some campsites.

Typical Passengers on Flying Kiwi

Although Flying Kiwi claims to have passengers of 16-60 years old, they mostly have passengers aged between 20 years old to 40 years old with an average being the mid-20s. The trips are popular with UK and European travellers, however, you will still find the odd mix of travellers from the Americas. Group sizes are around 10-20 people per bus.

Destinations Visited with Flying Kiwi

There are multiple passes to suit travellers’ different travel times. Flying Kiwi’s full national bus pass has a minimum travel time of 23 days hitting the following locations:

• Tongariro National Park
• Kapiti Coast
• Milford Sound
• Glacier Country
• New Plymouth

Typical Price of Flying Kiwi

The full price for a national pass (23 days) with Flying Kiwi is approximately NZ$6,705.

Type of Tour: National Coach Network

InterCity is a coach service used by locals and travellers alike in New Zealand. It’s used mostly as an affordable way to get between towns and cities across the country. InterCity offers a couple of different bus passes to travellers: the FlexiPass and the TravelPass . FlexiPass gives travellers a set amount of “hours” to travel anywhere in the country, while the TravelPass is a set route around the country typical of other backpacker bus tours in New Zealand. Find out more about how they work in What’s the Difference Between InterCity Backpacker Bus Passes?

Activities with InterCity

Travelling with InterCity is a much more independent travel option in comparison to other bus tours, so accommodation and activities are not typically included in your bus ticket. However, some TravelPass bus passes have activities included, such as a Milford Sound day trip and cruise, Hobbiton Movie Set and a Cape Reinga day tour. The ferry between the North Island and the South Island is also included in the national TravelPass. You will need to book other activities and accommodations, as well as buy food independently.

Typical Passengers on InterCity

InterCity has the broadest range of passengers out of all the backpacker bus tours on this list due to the fact that it is the largest (and only) national coach network in New Zealand. There will be a mix of travellers from all over the world and New Zealanders.

Destinations Visited with InterCity

With InterCity, you can travel almost anywhere in New Zealand with more than 140 daily departures . With the FlexiPass , you decide the destinations. With the TravelPass , you choose one of the set routes on offer. It’s best to browse the InterCity website to see the vastness of their network.

Typical Prices with InterCity

A full national TravelPass with activities included is NZ$530, while a 60-hour FlexiPass costs around NZ$520 (which will get you to around 13 destinations from the top of the North Island to the bottom of the South Island and back again).

Contiki is a bus tour following a set route around the country. At least one meal a day is included (usually breakfast), as well as accommodation and some activities. For more information on how Contiki works, see Contiki Vs. G Adventures: Comparison for New Zealand .

Activities with Contiki

Some activities are included in your bus pass, such as a Maori hangi meal, a visit to a wildlife rescue centre and more. For other paid activities you can either add them to your tour when booking your pass or book with the driver as you travel.

Accommodation and Food with Contiki

Accommodation is included in Contiki bus tours in the form of hotels and lodges. You may share a room with 1-4 other passengers or upgrade to get a private room. Food is also included in Contiki tours, usually breakfast and dinner and occasionally lunch or dinner.

Typical Passengers on Contiki

Contiki tours are aimed at 18-35-year-olds with the majority of passengers being 18-25. There is usually a ratio of more females to males. There can be a mix of nationalities, however, most passengers are from the Americas and Australia. Group sizes are usually a full large coach in the peak season and about half a large coach in the shoulder seasons.

Destinations Visited with Contiki

There are multiple passes to suit travellers’ different travel times. Contiki’s full national bus pass has a minimum travel time of 21 days hitting the following locations:

Typical Prices of Contiki

A full national pass with Contiki is around NZ$6,140 but the pass is very often on sale. You can usually pick up a national pass for around NZ$5,220.

Kiwi Experience

Type of tour: hop-on hop-off bus tour and all-inclusive bus tours.

The hop-on hop-off bus with Kiwi Experience follows a set route in one direction around the country. Passengers have the opportunity to “hop off” the bus anywhere along the route and “hop on” another bus at a prearranged time and date. Certain passes allow “unlimited travel” meaning you can do the route multiple times while your pass is valid (usually 12 months from your start date) as long as you travel in order and when there is availability. For a complete review of Kiwi Experience, head to What is it Really Like to Travel with Kiwi Experience?

Kiwi Experience also operates a number of all-inclusive bus tours called “ Small Group Tours “. They follow a set route around the country in a predetermined number of days. Accommodations and some meals are included (mostly breakfast). Some activities are included in the pass with options to add on paid activities.

Activities and Accommodations on Kiwi Experience’s Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

Paid activities are on an optional pay-as-you-go scheme where the bus driver will book activities and accommodation (mainly hostels) for you as you travel. However, you can choose to arrange your own activities and accommodation as you wish. There are opportunities to do free activities as you go, as your driver will stop at free walks and attractions along the route. Learn more about what it’s like to travel with Kiwi Experience in  A Day in the Life of a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Passenger .

Activities, Accommodation and Food on Kiwi Experience’s Small Group Tours

On Kiwi Experience’s Small Group Tours, accommodation is included in hostels, usually on a shared basis but there are opportunities to upgrade to a private room at an extra cost. Activities included are a guided tour of Te Puia geothermal park, a stargazing tour with Dark Sky Project , the Ruakuri Cave tour in Waitomo, wine tasting in Marlborough , greenstone carving and more. The tour also stops for plenty of free walks and hikes. Most breakfasts are also included, as well as a couple of dinners.

Typical Passengers on Kiwi Experience

Kiwi Experience’s hop-on hop-off tours boast a bus tour experience for 20-something adventurous backpackers. 18-25-year-old passengers from the UK and Europe are often the majority with a larger ratio of females to males. Nevertheless, you will still find a diverse range of people outside of the “typical” age range and nationality. Expect group sizes to fill two large coach buses in the peak season and almost fill one large coach bus in the low season.

On the Small Group tours, the maximum group size is 16. While the age limit is between 18 and 49 years old, the tours attract those in their early 20s to early 30s.

Destinations Visited with Kiwi Experience

There are multiple passes to suit travellers’ different travel times. Kiwi Experience’s full national bus pass has a minimum travel time of 25 days hitting the following locations:

• Bay of Islands & Cape Reinga
• Kaiteriteri ( Abel Tasman )
• Lake Mahinapua ( Hokitika )
• Queenstown & Milford Sound

Typical Prices for Kiwi Experience

The full price for a national pass (25+ days) is around NZ$1,900 but you will never pay the full retail price for a Kiwi Experience bus pass. Sales on bus passes happen year-round, usually bringing you around NZ$1,500 for a full national bus pass. Small Group Tours cost approximately NZ$4,600 for their most complete tour (19 days).

For budget tips for hop-on hop-off bus travel, check out  How to Budget for a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Trip Around New Zealand .

Stray Travel

Note that Stray’s hop-on hop-off bus passes are suspended until further notice. Their all-inclusive bus tours (Journey Tours) are currently operating. 

Stray Travel  follows a set route around the country in a predetermined number of days. Accommodations and some meals are included (mostly breakfast). Some activities are included in the pass with options to add on paid activities.

Activities, Accommodation and Food on Stray

On Stray’s tours, accommodation is included in a mix of hotels, boutique accommodations and lodges, usually on a shared basis but there are opportunities to upgrade to a private room at an extra cost. Activities included are a cultural and Maori hangi experience, a canoe trip on the Whanganui River and a Milford Sound cruise. Most breakfasts are also included.

Typical Passengers on Stray

Stray boasts tours for 20-something-year-old backpackers wanting to get more “off the beaten track”. While you will find a diverse range of ages and nationalities, Stray passengers are more likely to be anywhere between 18 and 30 years old. There is usually a ratio of more females to males, mainly coming from the UK, Europe and the US. They typically have a smaller group size to a maximum of 24 people.

Destinations Visited with Stray

There are multiple passes to suit travellers’ different travel times. Stray’s full national tour lasts 24 days and stays in the following destinations:

• Hahei ( Coromandel )
• Lake Aniwhenua
• Marahau ( Abel Tasman )

Stray’s  longest all-inclusive tour (24 days) is approximately NZ$7,000 but can usually be found on sale for around NZ$5,700.

G Adventures

G Adventures offers bus tours following set routes around the country. At least two meals a day are included, as well as accommodation with some activities. For more information on how G Adventures works, see Contiki Vs. G Adventures: Comparison for New Zealand .

Activities with G Adventures

Some activities are included in your bus pass, such as boat tours, kayaking tours, surf lessons, Maori cultural experiences and more. For other paid activities you can book with the driver as you travel.

Accommodation and Food with G Adventures

Accommodation is included in G Adventures bus tours in the form of hostels, lodges and budget hotels. You may share a room with other passengers or upgrade to a private room. Food is also included on tours with G Adventures, usually, breakfast every day and some dinners.

Typical Passengers on G Adventures

Most of G Adventures’ classic New Zealand tours are aimed at “18-30-something” year-olds. The majority of passengers are usually in their mid-20s. A mix of nationalities can be found on the G Adventures buses from Europe, the Americas, Australia and more.

Different tour styles that G Adventures offers are slightly catered to different groups, such as the “National Geographic” tours and “Multisport” tours have a more welcoming age range of anyone over 12 years old (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult). Therefore, expect these classes of tours to not quite be “backpacker”.

Destinations Visited with G Adventures

There are multiple passes to suit travellers’ different travel times and styles of travel. G Adventures’ full national bus pass has a minimum travel time of 21 days hitting the following locations:

A full national pass (21 days) with G Adventures is around NZ$5,400 but the pass is very often on sale.

Topdeck offers a bus tour following a set route around the country. Breakfasts and a couple of dinners are included, as well as accommodation and some activities. The ferry between the North Island and South Island is also included.

Activities and Accommodations with Topdeck

Accommodation is included in Topdeck bus tours in the form of hotels, lodges, cabins, hostels and a Maori marae. You may share a room with 1-4 other passengers or upgrade to get a private room. Some activities are included in your bus pass, such as a Maori cultural performance and the ferry between the North and South Islands. Other optional paid activities are booked with the driver as you travel. Food is also included in Topdeck tours, all breakfasts and a couple of dinners if you are taking the full national pass.

Typical Passengers on Topdeck

Topdeck tours are aimed at 18-30-year-olds with the majority of passengers usually 18-25 years old. There is usually an even ratio of males and females. There can be a mix of nationalities, however, most passengers are from the Americas and Australia. Group sizes are usually a full large coach (36 people) in the peak season and about half a large coach in the shoulder seasons.

Destinations Visited with Topdeck

There are a limited number of passes with Topdeck: a North Island tour, a South Island tour and a national tour. Topdeck’s full national bus pass has a minimum travel time of 17 days hitting the following locations:

A full national pass with Topdeck is around NZ$4,200, but the pass is very often on sale. You can usually pick up a national pass for around NZ$3,600.

Cheeky Kea Tours

Cheeky Kea offers bus tours following set routes around the South Island. Breakfast and some other meals are included, as well as accommodation with some activities.

Activities and Accommodations

Accommodation is included with Cheeky Kea bus tours. Some activities are included in your bus pass, such as a Milford Sound cruise, wine tasting and more. For other paid activities you can book with the driver as you travel. Breakfast is also included every day with some days having dinner included.

Typical Passengers

Cheeky Kea aims tours at 18 to 30-something-year-olds.

Destinations Visited

Cheeky Kea’s South Island bus pass has a minimum travel time of 14 days hitting the following locations:

• Queenstown (& Milford Sound)
• Abel Tasman National Park

A South Island bus pass with Cheeky Kea is around NZ$3,000.

[SUSPENDED] Sweet As Travel

Sweet As Travel has yet to announce its reopening dates post the COVID pandemic. We will update this page once their tours become available again. 

Sweet As Travel offers bus tours that follow a set route around the North Island that include all travel, accommodation, three meals a day and a variety of paid and free activities for 18-35-year-olds.

Activities and Accommodation

Accommodation is included in Sweet As bus tours in the form of hostels & lodges where you will share a room with 4-8 passengers. Tours offer optional extras such as private room upgrades and excursions that include boats or campsites. Some paid activities are included or can be booked in your bus pass, such as a Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park, Hawkes Bay Wine Tour, Waitomo Caves Tour, Raglan Boat Party and more. You can add further paid activities onto your tour when booking your pass or book with the driver as you travel. Otherwise, there are plenty of free activities, sights and attractions visited on the tour almost every day. Additionally, tours cater for all breakfasts, lunches and dinners that can also be optionally included if not in your package.

Sweet As Travel bus tours attract a diverse bunch of passengers due to their varied locations and activities. Aimed at 18-35-year-olds, you’ll find passengers across that entire age range and a mix of nationalities on board, coming from the UK, Europe, the US and Canada. Expect group sizes to between 6-22 people per bus.

There are multiple passes to suit travellers’ different travel times. Sweet As Travel’s full North Island bus pass has a minimum travel time of 1 day hitting the following locations:

• Cape Reinga

A full national pass with Sweet As Travel starts at NZ$1,250, but you’ll never pay the full retail price. Sales on bus passes happen year-round with discounts made to returning passengers, group bookings, last-minute bookings and paying early for your trip. Contact them directly for discounts.

[CLOSED] Naked Bus / Manabus

Naked Bus and Manabus are no longer operating in New Zealand.

We thought it would be worth mentioning them at the end of this backpacker bus tour comparison, as they have a long-standing reputation that will have a few of you wondering: “What about Naked Bus?” But it’s true, they are no longer around.

The closest comparison to Naked Bus and Manabus is InterCity .

More About Backpacker Bus Tours in New Zealand

That’s it for our list of the best backpacker bus tours in New Zealand. For more handy tips, take a look at the following guides:

• 15 Tips to Make the Most of Your Backpacker Bus Trip
• Bus Networks in New Zealand
• What is the Difference Between the Buses in New Zealand?

Finally, get the complete guide to all things “bus travel” in New Zealand with  How to Travel by Bus in New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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The Best Whitsundays Tours – Which Should You Choose?!

Trying to figure out the best Whitsundays tours for your Oz trip? Here’s my guide to the best options – inc days trips and sailing tours!

Figuring out the best Whitsundays tours for your trip up the East Coast of Australia can be a bit of a tough decision – there are so many awesome options to choose from and as one of the top things to do in Australia you don’t want to mess it up!

From day trips to overnight sailing adventures – here’s my rundown of the best Whitsundays tours so you can choose the right one for you!

For those who are tight on time or don’t have a huge travel budget to play with a day trip is going to be the most appeal Whitsunday tour to go for.

And most Whitsundays day tours still take in the main things to see and do too – so you wont be missing out on anything major!

Ocean Rafting

• Cost = from $169 (not including lunch)
• Max capacity = 32

One of the most popular Whitsundays tours in terms of day trips is certainly Ocean Rafting – who I jumped on board with for my first trip to the Whitsundays!

Taking in all the highlights of the Whitsundays – including Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. In fact they’re the only day trip provider who are allowed to moor up directly at Hill Inlet Beach.

Not only that but they offer 2 day trip options – the Northern Exposure and Southern Lights tour. Both include the same major highlights but the Northern Exposure trip includes more snorkelling time, whereas the Souther Lights has more beach time.

So take your pick!

The buffet lunch is an optional add on, but I’d highly recommend it as the food was pretty epic and more than enough to go around!

Click here for more info and to book

• Cost = from $189

Another day trip favourite is Thundercat – a custom built vessel designed to make your Whitsundays trip as smooth and comfortable as possible.

As with pretty much all the Whitsundays tour it takes in all the main highlights – including Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout – as well as a couple of awesome snorkelling spots too.

The trip is all inclusive – with lunch, snorkel gear and everything else all part of the package, so you can simply rock up (with your swimwear of course!) and enjoy an epic day out!

Party Boats

For a lot of backpackers travelling the East Coast a party boats is going to be the Whitsundays tour of choice. Load up the goon, set sail for a few days of party chaos and enjoy some rather drunken times with your new travel buddies!

The Atlantic Clipper

• Cost = from $449
• Max capacity = 53
• Departs = 3 x weekly
• Duration = 2 nights

Probably the most famous fo all the Whitsundays tours – or should I say infamous?! The Atlantic Clipper (aka the Clipper) has been providing backpackers with a boozy sailing option and has gained the reputation as the most party centric option in the Whitsundays!

With space for up to 53 customers it’s the biggest boat in the Whitsundays – super sociable and you’ll meet heaps of other travellers on board.

The 34m long Atlantic Clipper is geared up for all things party too – including on deck spa, awesome guides and even its own waterslide, so when you’re not exploring or snorkelling there’s plenty of things to keep you occupied.

If you want a break from partying (or something to do before you crack the first beer of the day!) they also offer scuba diving on board too, which is an epic way to explore the coral gardens around the Whitsundays

New Horizon

• Cost = from $429

The sister boat of the Atlantic Clipper, New Horizon is smaller, but still packs in heaps of awesome party vibes!

As with all the overnight sailing trips you’l check out all the top highlights of the Whitsundays, enjoy heaps of snorkelling and kick back amongst the stunning islands that dot the horizon.

It packs in heaps of party fun – with a diving board so you can walk the plank, jet boat/banana boat rides, SUPs and an inflatable waterslide, so there’s not excuse not to get involved in the chaos!

As with the Clipper you also have the option to add on a scuba dive – both certified dive or intro dive – so it’s the perfect opportunity to tick that off your bucket list too.

If you haven’t spent much time at sea or suffer from a bit of sea sickness then a Whitsundays catamaran trip is a great option – as this style of boat provides the most stability on the open ocean.

And luckily there are catamaran options for all styles and budgets too…

• Cost = $499
• Max capacity = 24

Out of all the Whitsunday tours I’ve tried out and recommended Tongarra is still my personal favourite – I had an absolute blast when I ran my Australia tour and everyone enjoyed our 2 night stay on this epic catamaran boat.

Great food, awesome crew and a itinerary packed with all the Whitsundays to dos made Tongarra a trip to remember.

As an 18-35 boat it is aimed at the backpacker and young traveller market but is certainly more mellow than the party boats!

One of the most unique things about Tongarra though has to be the sleeping arrangements. Instead of a cabin layout Tongarra has a custom built tent which covers the deck at the night – or if the weather is good you get to sleep under a blanket of stars. Sure that’s not going to be for everyone but if you’re up for adventure it’s well worth it.

• Cost = from $479
• Max capacity = 31
• Departs = 6 x weekly

Love the idea of Tongarra but not so keen on the sleeping arrangements? Well Wings offers the perfect alternative!

A stable, catamaran style boat there’s actually 2 boats in this feels – Wings 1 and Wings 2 – which although slightly different in layout, both offer everything you’d want from a fun, sociable Whitsundays experience.

Whilst you sail around the islands top up your tan on the spacious nets at the front (including spray for a cool down!) and you can enjoy the onboard jacuzzi too, which is the perfect place for a sunset beer.

Depending on availability and of course your budget they offer 4 cabin types – private double, shared twin, shared cabin and saloon cabin. The Saloon option is the cheapest, but you need to be aware that during the day you’ll need to pack your bed away as it becomes part of the common area. So if you want a bit more personal space the cabin options are the best bet.

• Cost = from $535
• Max capacity = 18

If you’re looking for a smaller group, more flashpacker style Whitsundays tour then Powerplay is the best option.

This beautiful catamaran departs 3 times a week from Airlie Beach and soak up all the amazing sights, sounds and destinations the Whitsundays has to offer. 

With a maximum of 18 its perfect for those who want to kick back and chill out, as well as being a favourite with couples.

When you’re not sailing around the islands make full use of the SUPs, kayaks, snorkelling equipment and of the  onboard jacuzzi!

Island Stays

Got more time than just a day trip but dont fancy sleeping on a boat? Or simply want a bit more luxury and space on your Whitsundays tour? Well there is an awesome Whitsunday Island stay that won’t break the bank…

Ride To Paradise

• Cost = from $599 (2 nights) or $299 (1 night)
• Departs = 3 x weekly (2 night option) every Friday (1 night option)
• Duration = 2 or 1 night options

Given the luxurious options across the Whitsundays islands a lot of people think and island stay is well out of their price range – but the Ride To Paradise option is the perfect balance of adventure and comfort!

You’ll spend your days exploring the best of the Whitsundays (yes that includes Whitehaven and Hill Inlet!) and in the afternoon you’ll head to your island base at the stunning Paradise Cove Resort.

Enjoy access to all the Resorts facilities – including beach, pool, spa and hammocks amongst the palm trees!

For solo traveller the shared dorm offers the best value and social option whereas couples can opt for private rooms – including the spacious Dream Villa which wont disappoint!

Have you done an awesome Whitsunday tour?

Which did you go for, related posts.

Travelling Around Australia – The Greyhound Australia Bus Pass Guide

Australia Opens For Tourism From Feb 21st!

The Best Hostels In Byron Bay (2023 Update)

Australia Is Opening Up From 1st Dec 2021!

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Interesting article and videos Chris! Thank you for sharing such awesome post about Australia. The breakdown of the cost will absolutely help for first timers visiting the place. Keep it up. Cheers!

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Home » Europe » Moscow

20 BEST Hostels in Moscow (2024 • Insider Guide!)

Far and away Russia’s largest city, the capital city of Moscow is a backpacker’s dream. By European standards it’s affordable, and by city standards it still feels super exotic.

But there are a ton of hostels in Moscow. Over 110 to be specific, and knowing which hostel to pick can be quite a task. Which is the exact reason we put together this list of the best hostels in Moscow.

We’ve organized this list of the best hostels in Moscow by different travel needs. So whether you wanna party or chill, hook up or wind down, with the help of this guide, you’ll be able to book the hostel that gets you where you wanna be!

Let’s take a look at the 20 best hostels in Moscow…

The 20 Best Youth Hostels in Moscow

What to pack for your moscow hostel, why you should travel to moscow, faq about hostels in moscow, more epic hostels in russia.

Moscow Style | Overall Best Youth Hostel in Moscow

The overall best hostel in Moscow is Moscow Style and you’re about to find out why. Not only does Moscow Style offer guests all the basics like free bed linen and free WiFi but have a late check-out, free breakfast and a guest kitchen too. Team this with kick-ass customer service, super comfy dorm rooms and the fact that it’s located in the heart of the city, you’ll easily see why Moscow Style is the best hostel in Moscow in 2021. To top it off, must-visit landmarks like the Kremlin and Red Square are just a five-minute walk away.

Comrade Hostel

Comrade Hostel is the joint best hostel in Moscow in 2021. Comrade Hostel is a highly recommended hostel in Moscow so if you wanna stay here you’ve gotta book your bed ASAP, especially if you and your travel buddies wanna stay in the same dorm room. Comrade Hostel is in Moscow’s old town known locally as Kitai-Gorod. The Comrade staff are always on hand to give you directions and useful tips on how to make the most of your every moment in Moscow.

Vagabond Hostel | Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Moscow

The best hostel for solo travellers in Moscow is the super popular Vagabond Hostel. For solo travellers early seeking a crew to explore the Russian capital city with your first port of call should be Vagabonds. Attracting a varied and interesting crowd Vagabond Hostel is the perfect Moscow backpackers hostel for solo travellers to hang out in. The free breakfast provides a cracking start to the day and you have the use of the guest kitchen too. Why not have a cook-off with your hostel mates?

Godzillas is a top hostel in Moscow and has been for years. For solo travellers keen to connect, Godzillas is a great start; tour operators often use Godzillas as their meeting hostel so there are always plenty wide-eyed and bushy-tailed travellers just like you around the place! The Godzillas team are super welcoming and always happy to help in any way that they can. If you’re a solo traveller keen to meet a wide of a range of people as possible, Godzillas is the place for you.

Chekhov House | Best Cheap Hostel in Moscow #1

The best cheap hostel in Moscow is Chekhov House, by far. Although at first glance the pink hues around Chekhov House may have you thinking it’s a women-only hostel, it is a place for everyone. The free breakfast, free WiFi and free luggage storage go a long way in making Chekhov House a great, cheap, youth hostel in Moscow. The Chekhov House team are keen to please and are always happy to help with directions. As a rookie in Russia, you may struggle to read local signage as they use a totally different alphabet!

Good News Hostel | Best Cheap Hostel in Moscow #2

The good news is that Good News Hostel is the best budget hostel in Moscow! Too cheesy?! Anyway, you’ll love Good News Hostel for its bright and spacious dorm rooms and wonderful communal areas. The outdoor deck is the ideal spot to hang out in on a sunny Russian summers day although if you’re heading to Moscow in the winter you need to bring your thermals. Super close to the Komsomolskaya metro station, you can easily connect to all of Moscow’s tourist hotspots from Good News Hostel.

Jazz House | Best Cheap Hostel in Moscow #3

Light and bright, Jazz House is a simple but ample budget youth hostel in Moscow. You’ll find very little to complain about here. The staff keep Jazz House in great shape and you’ll feel instantly at ease, once you’ve dumped your hefty backpack that is. The Kremlin is 3.5km away but the walk is a great way to experience real Moscow. If that feels like too much hop on the metro at Serpukhovskaya and you’ll be there in minutes. Once you’ve got your head around it the Moscow metro is pretty easy really.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

FriendHouse | Best Hostel for Couples in Moscow

The best hostels for couples in Moscow is FriendHouse. Simple? Yes. Ideal? Yes! With so much to see and do in Moscow , most travellers are looking for a cheap and cheerful place to crash and FriendHouse is perfect. They have reasonably priced private double rooms especially for couples like you. If you and your lover like meeting fellow backpackers all you need to do is head to FriendHouse’s monochrome yet cosy lounge of an evening and get introducing yourselves.

Star Wars Hostel

No, bear with me on this one! Believe it or not, another Star Wars Hostel is the best hostel in Moscow for couples who like a fancier style of accommodation. By name alone you’ll be thinking that it’s Star Wars through and through but, to its credit, Star Wars Hostel has only a subtle homage to the sci-fi series. The private rooms for a couple are cosy, even romantic and cottage like in their decor! Everyone who stays at Star Wars Hostel raves about it. Go on, give it a go!

Fasol Hostel & Bar | Best Party Hostel in Moscow

Fasol Hostel & Bar is, you’ve guessed it, the best party hostel in Moscow. This laid-back, charming and budget-friendly youth hostel is the perfect place to get your party on. To be fair, they don’t party crazy hard here as Moscow is hardly famed for its party scene but if you’re keen on a few beers, or a vodka or two, after a day of exploring Moscow Fasol is the place to stay. Overall, Fasol is a highly recommended hostel in Moscow, so whether you’re a party animal or not you’ll surely be drawn in by the on-point hostel vibes.

Safari Hostel

If Safari Hostel had its own bar it would easily be the best party hostel in Moscow, alas it’s nearly the best hostel in Moscow for a party. To be fair, Safari Hostel is a laugh a minute and all who stay here are game for a drink or two. Good job you can BYOB! The huge guest kitchen and dining room is the perfect place to get the beers following before you hit the town. The Safari team will be more than happy to recommend which pubs you hit up and when!

Hostel Derevo | Best Hostels for Digital Nomads in Moscow

Hostel Derevo is the best hostel for digital nomads in Moscow for sure! Not only do they have free and unlimited super-fast WiFi but modern spaces to work in. Derevo is the coolest hostel in Moscow for digital nomads and there is something to be said for feeling more productive when working in an inspiring environment. Derevo is, in fact, a co-working hostel, the whole place has been designed for digital nomads like you. Snap up your spot ASAP, they’re about to get even more popular in the rise of the digital nomads in 2021.

Netizen Hostel

Netizen is an ideal Moscow backpackers hostel for digital nomads, their bar and cafe is a great place to work from. The Netizen team have created an open and welcoming vibe here but there is a calmness and quietness about the place too. Netizen is a super clean hostel and the room service team work around the clock to keep the hostel in immaculate order. As a highly recommended hostel in Moscow Netizen is great for digital nomads looking for a home from home and an office all rolled into one.

Grant’s Hostel | Best Hostel with a Private Room in Moscow

Grant’s Hostel is a top hostel in Moscow if you’re departing by flight as they offer a free airport transfer. So no need to stress about finding a Moscow hostel near the airport. You don’t wanna focus on leaving before you’ve arrived though! You have Grant’s Hostels super spacious dorm rooms and cosy cafe to look forward to; as well as the team’s wonderful hospitality. Grant’s Hostel is a great shout for couples, they have four private double rooms just waiting to be snapped up! Get booking!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

More of the Best Youth Hostels in Moscow

Sputnik hostel.

Sputnik is the coolest youth hostel in Moscow but also one of the only boutique options available in the city. If you’re more of a flashpacker than a shoestring slumming-it kinda traveller you’ll feel right at home in the modern yet rustic dorms of Sputnik. If you have an eye for design you’ll love Sputniks minimalist style. Flashpackers you’ll be pleased to hear Sputnik’s is on the same street as Prada and all the posh restaurants. Main Moscow attractions like the Kremlin are just a 10-minute walk away.

3 Penguins Hostel

3 Penguins is a super cute Moscow backpackers hostel with reasonably priced dorm rooms and a homely feel. 3 Penguins have been impressing their guests time and time again and as such has become a highly recommended hostel in Moscow. There’s a kind of grandeur about the private rooms at the 3 Penguins that couples will surely kind romantic if a bit OTT. The staff are super helpful and will always give you a hand when they can.

Captial Hostel

Captial Hostel is a clean and homely Moscow backpackers youth hostel, located in the heart of the city. A far cry from a party hostel, Captial is ideal for travellers who like to stick to business when they’re on the road; for those who like to get a quiet and calm night’s sleep ready to hit up all the city sights in the morning. Captial Hostel has private dorm rooms and is therefore ideal for groups of mates who are travelling together and need a bit of space away from random dorm mates. It’s ok, we all feel like it sometimes!

Blagovest Hostel

Blagovest is a top hostel in Moscow, especially if you’re travelling with your crew. They have both open and private dorms available. The private dorms can sleep up to five people and is a great way of pooling the costs of travel. Blagovest Hostel comes highly recommended by all who visit, in part due to their great location but mostly because of their lovely staff. It should also be mentioned that Blagovest has dead comfy orthopaedic mattresses on all their beds. You’ll sleep like a baby!

Kremlin Lights

If you’re having a quick turnaround in Moscow and need to hit up all the sights and landmarks super quickly and easily you need to book a bed at Kremlin Lights. They’re located just 190m from the Kremlin, no other Moscow backpackers hostel is closer. Kremlin Lights is a bright and welcoming hostel that is super clean and as we’ve established, perfectly located. By being in the heart of Moscow the surrounding food outlets can be a little pricey so be sure to cook for yourself in the Kremlin Lights kitchen to save some money.

Jedi Hostel

Sci-Fi haters don’t dismiss Jedi Hostel on the name alone. Although there’s a subtle theme Jedi Hostel is a cracking youth hostel in Moscow, regardless of your feelings towards the films! Jedi Hostel is a funky and bright hostel located in the heart of Moscow. From here you can easily access all the tourist hotspots, great bars and some cool restaurants too. Each dorm bed is in capsule style for a little added privacy. Jedi is a super friendly hostel and you’ll defiantly find yourself tempted to extend your stay!

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out our definitive  Hostel Packing list  for our top packing tips!

Moscow is an unforgettable experience, so be sure to book a hostel that sets yourself up for success. With the help of this guide, you’ll be able to pick a hostel that best suits your travel-style, your your time in Russia can be nothing short of awesome.

And, just in case you can’t pick from one of the best hostels in Moscow – go with Moscow Style. It’s location, price and stellar reviews means you’ll have a great time and can worry about one less thing on your Russia trip.

Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Moscow.

What are the best hostels in Moscow, Russia?

Here you go! Our top 3 of the best hostels in Moscow: Moscow Style Vagabond Hostel Chekhov House

What’s the best party hostel in Moscow?

Fasol Hostel & Bar is the perfect place to get your party on. They don’t go wild there, but it’s a sick laid-back hostel with a nice bar to chug a few drinks.

What’s the cheapest hostel in Moscow?

If you’re looking to save some money down in Moscow, book your stay at one of these hostels: Chekhov House Good News Hostel Jazz House

Where can I book a hostel for Moscow?

Most of our favorite hostels are found through Hostelworld. If you’re looking for an epic place to stay in Moscow, start your search there!

What are the best hostels in Moscow for couples?

FriendHouse is an ideal reasonably-priced hostel for couples in Moscow. It has a monochrome yet cosy lounge of an evening.

What are the best hostels in Moscow near the airport?

If you’re departing by flight, there is no need to stress about finding a Moscow hostel near the airport. Grant’s Hostel, our best hostel with private rooms in Moscow, offers a free airport transfer.

Travel Safety Tips for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Moscow.

Planning an epic trip all across Russia?

Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

For more cool hostel guides around Russia, check out:

• Best hostels in Saint Petersburg
• Best hostels in Kiev
• Best hostels in Warsaw
• Best hostels in Tbilisi
• Best hostels in Oslo

Over to you

By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Moscow has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!

If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!

• Check out the best places to stay in Moscow before you arrive.
• Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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The 10 best personal item bags, tested & reviewed.

Find your best carry-on companion with our top editor picks.

The Best Personal Item Bags

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

When you're traveling on an airplane, there are certain items like your wallet, phone, passport, medications and earbuds that you always want to keep close. These are the items you'll want to pack in your personal item bag, along with other in-flight comfort items or perhaps a few souvenirs you're bringing home with you. When it comes to a personal item, there are many options that could be right for you, though keep in mind what airlines will allow can vary.

What size is a personal item bag?

This item can be a purse , bag or backpack that easily fits under the seat in front of you. For most domestic airlines, your personal item should be 18 x 14 x 8 inches or smaller. Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag that goes into the overhead bin and one personal item bag that can be stowed under the seat. For both carry-on and personal item bags, it's important to check your airline's carry-on luggage size requirements and policies.

To help you decide what personal item bag meets your needs, our editors shared their go-to bags they personally use when traveling by air.

Best Foldable: Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hip Pack: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack

Best tote: everlane the recycled nylon tote, best backpack: away the everywhere zip backpack, best organization: nomad lane bento bag, best washable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best laptop backpack: fila argus 5 laptop backpack, best for adventure travel: osprey nebula 32, best affordable: gorilla wear duncan backpack, best duffel: lipault city plume 24h bag 2.0.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of personal item bags are height by width by depth.)

Nicola Wood | U.S. News

Price: $155 or less

Travelers will frequently spot this classic tote at airports and hotels around the world for good reason. It folds up easily for storage when not in use, and it has a roomy main compartment with a small interior pocket for a phone, boarding pass and a cardholder. Longchamp's Le Pliage Large tote is made of the brand's durable water-resistant nylon and finished with its signature embossed leather trim.

What our editors say:

I love traveling with my Longchamp Le Pliage tote. It's big enough to hold a laptop and all other essentials, and it has both a zipper and a snap-close leather flap, so you won't have to worry about anything falling out during travel. It is versatile enough to use throughout your vacation as a handbag, or you can fold it up and store it away once you reach your destination. The Le Pliage tote is made of nylon, so it is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean after traveling. There is a small interior pocket that can hold a boarding pass, phone or cardholder, or you can pop in a separate organizer from Amazon for multiple interior compartments. The Le Pliage tote comes in a variety of colors, so there's something for everyone. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $30 or less

If you're looking to travel light and maximize leg space, this Cotopaxi hip pack is ideal. Strap it around your waist or shoulder for hands-free travel, and reach your wallet or passport quickly. There's a spacious main compartment for your phone, wallet and boarding pass. Plus, a front zippered compartment can hold things like gum or earbuds. Constructed of 100% fabric scraps, each hip pack is sustainable and one-of-a-kind.

My top priority when traveling by plane is ample leg room, so Cotopaxi fanny packs are the perfect under-the-seat choice. I like the smaller Kapai 1.5 L Hip Pack for storing my essentials on shorter flights: phone, wallet, tissues, lip balm and earbuds. (There's also a 3L version .) For longer flights, the larger Allpa X 4L Hip Pack can fit a lot more, including a small book, Nintendo Switch and snack. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $85 or less

This versatile tote is constructed with recycled nylon, which makes it easy to clean as well as sustainable. The padded bottom helps to protect your laptop and other contents. The main compartment has a zippered pocket and a 13-inch laptop sleeve. You can carry the bag with its tote straps or over the shoulder, and there's an exterior slip pocket for small items.

My favorite thing about this bag is that it's structured, but also easily pliable when it's time to stow it underneath my seat. The exterior pocket allows for easy access to small items like earbuds and hand sanitizer, and the larger main compartment is roomy enough for my laptop, 32-ounce water bottle, snacks, a small toiletry bag and a book. I also appreciate its sleek simplicity and sustainable materials. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $195 or less

This backpack from Away has a variety of interior and exterior pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve with a magnetic locking zipper, an interior mesh pocket for a small water bottle and two external hidden pockets. It has a versatile design that works for trips to the office, day tours and leisure trips. For carrying options, the backpack has comfortable padded shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve to secure it to your favorite carry-on bag.

For my personal item, I'm all about function over fashion and this bag manages to hit both marks. I especially love the interior key clip – I actually use it for my wallet so I easily find my ID and credit card and not risk losing them. – Amanda Norcross , Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $298 or less

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag has a sleek and professional look that makes it work for both personal and business travel, especially with the 16-inch padded laptop sleeve that you can access from the top. It comes with a toiletries pouch and an electronics organizer that tuck inside two exterior pockets, so you can easily remove them at security. The bag has a variety of organizational pockets, including a trolley sleeve that converts into a pocket. It works well as a personal item bag, and can be used as a weekender bag if you're a light packer.

The Bento Bag is truly exceptional for organization. Not only can it fit a ton for its size, but I love how it also keeps my belongings separated and neat while still easy to access on the go. When I travel with it, the bag is comfortable to carry and fits under the seat in front of me with no issue. I also just appreciate how sophisticated it looks. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

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Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

This timeless design has sturdy straps to comfortably carry the bag through airports and more. It's affordable, durable and machine washable. The interior compartment can accommodate everything from a toiletry bag to souvenirs, yet it still fits under the seat with a comfortable amount of room for your feet.

I've used this Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag as my personal item for years. I love the soft-sided design of this bag and it can fit an impressive amount. There's also an interior zippered pocket and two smaller open pockets for organization. Typically, I'll pack my laptop, various chargers, one to two books, an extra set of clothes and shoes, my wallet, my makeup bag, AirPods, snacks, a water bottle, and my phone. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Suzanne Mason | U.S. News

Price: $70 or less

Perfect as a work, gym or travel bag, this durable backpack has multiple pockets to keep everything organized wherever you roam. The budget-friendly backpack has a spacious main compartment with an internal mesh pocket and a separate 15-inch laptop compartment. Its padded straps provide comfort while carrying the bag for long periods of time, and the front zippered compartment is ideal for a boarding pass, pen or phone.

I love my Fila Argus 5 Laptop Backpack. I use it for both travel and for work. The backpack has a pocket in the back separating the main space in the back. I usually carry my iPad or laptop there and use the rest of the space to carry any items I couldn't fit in my luggage or trinkets that I'm bringing back for souvenirs. The front pocket I love because it's a zippered space where I can put my important traveling documents and other miscellaneous items needed for my travels. The backpack straps are wide and padded making it comfortable to wear on my back. The backpack is small enough to fit under a plane seat if you need to access the bag while in flight. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

Zach Watson | U.S. News

Price: $140 or less

This spacious backpack offers the design features of a more technical backpack − like a removable webbing belt along with top and bottom compression straps − but with an emphasis on everyday needs. There are numerous interior pockets to keep all of your travel essentials securely stowed, a TSA-approved laptop sleeve and a front zippered organization pocket. The exterior has two deep, adjustable side pockets that can fit two Nalgene-size water bottles. The Osprey Nebula 32 features two padded straps and a breathable back to help make carrying the bag more comfortable, even in humid climates.

My Osprey Nebula 32 is in the running for my oldest personal possession; I've used it for over a decade. That means this Nebula pack started as a college backpack, lugging my textbooks between classes in Chicago snowstorms before joining me in Washington, D.C., where it kept my belongings safe on my humid (and occasionally rainy) bike commutes. Now, I primarily use my backpack for hiking and flying, and it still holds up remarkably well despite my regular mistreatment. I don't intend to replace my go-to personal item anytime soon, so this Osprey backpack has absolutely justified its admittedly high upfront cost. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Alissa Grisler | U.S. News

Price: $59.99 or less

Durable and ideal for everyday use or adventures afar, this backpack has a simple design with plenty of packing space. The spacious interior can hold a lot, including your toiletry bag, reading material, change of clothes and more. The laptop sleeve and variety of compartments help to keep items organized and in place. The exterior offers adjustable padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for comfort, a headphone opening, two mesh pockets and a front zippered compartment.

When purchasing a bag, I am looking for something that is durable and multifunctional. With its many storage compartments and large carrying capacity (perfect for the chronic over-packer or anyone who just can't say no to a souvenir), this bag is perfect for both travel and everyday use. – Alissa Grisler , Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $135 or less

Lightweight and constructed with water repellent nylon, this bag is durable, yet sophisticated. There are two large front pockets for smaller items like a 3-1-1 bag, headphones, wipes and small travel essentials, plus a side pocket for a water bottle or small items. Inside, the spacious interior compartment has a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets and a mesh pocket for keeping things organized, in addition to room for a toiletry bag, in-flight needs and souvenirs you find along the way. The bag features a separate zippered laptop compartment on the back, along with a trolley sleeve to attach it to your carry-on bag, like the coordinating Plume Cabin Size Spinner . What's more, it folds flat to save space when not in use.

I bought my original Lipault City Plume bag for my first trip to Europe over a decade ago. It's been a top pick for my travels for years, and it still looks and works great. The updated City Plume 24H Bag 2.0 is beautifully constructed, stays looking great even through the rigors of travel, fits perfectly under the seat and holds a lot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood strives to be a carry-on only traveler. Over the years she's tested a variety of bags from multiple brands at an array of prices. To curate this article, she asked her team of editors to share their favorite personal item bags that have worked for all types of travel scenarios.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Checked Luggage, Tested by Editors
• The Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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THE 10 BEST Moscow Tours & Excursions

Moscow tours.

• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• Boulevard Ring
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

2. Put-in Tours

3. Spanish Guide Moscow - Day Tours

4. Walks With Folks

5. Guia de Moscú

6. Happy Moscow Tours

7. Moscow Bike Tours

8. IdeaGuide - Your Personal Guide in Moscow

9. Moscow Private Tours

10. Bridge to Moscow

11. Tsar Visit

12. Excursions in Russia

13. MoscowMe

14. Moscow Navigator

15. Real Russia

16. Tour of Moscow - Day Tours

17. Tour Gratis Moscu

18. Moscow Free Tour

19. Mosstreets

20. Tour-Moscow

21. Moscow through the Eyes of an Engineer

22. Friendly Local Guides Moscow

23. Go Russia Travel Company

24. Three Whales

25. Moskovskiye Gulyaki

26. GuiaRus - Day Tour

27. Privilege Tour

28. Katya & Nikita — Local Moscow Guides

30. Kremlin Tour

What travelers are saying

• The Red Arrow
• Put-in Tours
• Spanish Guide Moscow - Day Tours
• Walks With Folks
• Happy Moscow Tours
• IdeaGuide - Your Personal Guide in Moscow
• Moscow Private Tours
• Tour Gratis Moscu
• Moscow Free Tour
• YourLocalGuide Moscow
• Moscow Bike Tours
• Moscow Navigator
• Moscow through the Eyes of an Engineer
• Angel Taxi - Day Tour
• Your Moscow Guide & Driver
• Gulyayem po Moskve
• Tanksdriving
• PandaPark Fili
• Excursions in Russia
• Vadim Pavlov Guide and Driver in Moscow

Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

• General Information
• What to see
• How to get to Moscow
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

Why visit Moscow?

Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.

The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful  St Basil's Cathedral . 

Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people,"  as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the  All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?

Introducing Moscow is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

Mike 'The Situation' Sorrentino 'Reality Check' book tour a hit at the Jersey Shore

2 minute read.

The author is here.

“Jersey Shore” star Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino was a hit at his April 14 book signing for “Reality Check: Making the Best of The Situation – How I Overcame Addiction, Loss, and Prison” at the Barnes and Noble of Brick. The appearance drew a long line of fans.

“The day was awesome!! So glad I got to experience this with my daughter!!” commented one attendee on Sorrentino's social media. Representatives of Barnes and Noble of Brick were unavailable to comment by press time.

Sorrentino's book tour continues with a visit to Books and Greetings in Northvale at noon Sunday, April 21. Attendees must purchase a book to attend. Visit booksandgreetings.com for more information or to register.

“Reality Check” details Sorrentino's rise from Manalapan to reality TV stardom and the pitfalls of life in the spotlight. Those pitfalls include an addiction to pain killers and prison time.

“My life has been a wild ride,” said Sorrentino in a statement. “The public has a general idea about some of those chaotic events, but not fully. In 'Reality Check,' I divulge all the details about making 'Jersey Shore' and open up about my crippling drug addiction during those years, eventual recovery and sobriety, time in prison, and experience starting my beautiful family.

"My life has been a roller coaster, and I’m excited to share with the world the depth of my lows and the remarkable comeback that no one saw coming.”

More: Angelina says she left 'Jersey Shore' because Mike the Situation broke her heart

More: 'Jersey Shore' cast welcomed to Seaside Heights: 'You guys are great kids'

Sorrentino, who lives in Holmdel with his wife Lauren Sorrentino and their three children, currently stars on “Jersey Shore Family Vacation,” which airs 8 p.m. Thursdays on MTV.  Visit mikethesituationbook.com for more information on “Reality Check.”

'Reality Check' book tour

• Books and Greetings, Northvale, noon Sunday, April 21
• Barns and Noble, Moorestown, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 25
• Barnes and Noble, Staten Island, 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 1
• Barnes and Noble, Holmdel, 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 8
• A Great Notion, Auburn, Massachusetts., 6 p.m. Friday, May 10   
• Black Rock Books, Fairfield, Connecticut, 7 p.m. Friday, May 17
• Barnes and Noble, East Brunswick, 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 22
• Next Chapter, Huntington, Long Island, New York, 7 p.m. Thursday, June 6.

Subscribe to app.com for the latest on New Jersey celebs.

Chris Jordan, a Jersey Shore native, covers entertainment and features for the USA Today Network New Jersey. Contact him at @chrisfhjordan; [email protected]

Power Rankings: RBC Heritage

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Other than the soft landing of Harbour Town Golf Links, the site of the annual destination post-Masters, there’s another promise for the field of 69 at this week’s RBC Heritage – no cut.

It’s the fifth of eight Signature Events this season. Of the commits, 54 competed at the first major last week, so they’ll leave some of that sweat in the rearview mirror.

Scroll or swipe past the golfers projected to contend for details of the tournament, the host course and more.

No time for the proverbial hangover after the Masters this time around as there are four rounds to be played on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. In addition to the usual spoils, the field is chasing 700 FedExCup points and $3.6 million for victory.

Although Harbour Town trails the Masters in the migration, it’s fair to wonder how fitting it’d be as a tune-up in advance of the major. Augusta National Golf Club requires the full bag and skill set with its unique combination of other prerequisites to be considered a force pre-tournament, but a primary objective there is to be properly positioned on approach. This is not dissimilar to the strategy to find the best angles at Harbour Town.

The par 71 in the Lowcountry stretches to a modest 7,213 yards, but because of routing, overhanging trees and some of the smallest greens on the PGA TOUR (at just 3,700 square feet on average), drivers will be holstered often. There are ball-strikers’ paradises, and then there’s a shot-maker’s track like this one.

Fields have understood that downshifting is required. Harbour Town annually ranks among the shortest in distance off the tee, while also typically among the easiest in splitting fairways. With targets yielding an average of about 11 greens in regulation per round, the small ball plays up. The only rough is just 1¼ inches high this year.

To that end, it’s a good week to be a bad putter on the overseeded Bermudagrass greens prepped to touch a familiar 12½ feet on the Stimpmeter. Tee-to-green tacticians always have an edge with small greens, and there’s a reason why Harbour Town led all courses in each of the last two seasons in total hole-outs. With a field about half the size from last year, it won’t be in the aggregate this week, but its conversion percentage from off the green will align with history.

Favorable conditions are expected until a risk of rain enters the equation on the weekend. Daytime highs right around 80 degrees will be accompanied by southeasterly winds off the Atlantic Ocean. They could kick up late Thursday and linger into Friday, but they shouldn’t be as challenging as what was faced by those who competed in the Masters.

ROB BOLTON’S SCHEDULE

MONDAY: Power Rankings (RBC Heritage) TUESDAY: Power Rankings (Corales Puntacana); Sleepers (Heritage) WEDNESDAY: Golfbet Insider SUNDAY: Points and Payouts (Heritage); Points and Payouts (Corales); Medical Extensions; Qualifiers; Reshuffle

* Rob is a member of the panel for PGATOUR.COM’s Expert Picks for PGA TOUR Fantasy Golf, which also publishes on Tuesday.

Rob Bolton is a Golfbet columnist for the PGA TOUR. The Chicagoland native has been playing fantasy golf since 1994, so he was just waiting for the Internet to catch up with him. Follow Rob Bolton on Twitter .

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2024 RBC Heritage: Predictions, expert picks, odds, field rankings, golf best bets for Harbour Town

Many of the best players in the world look to shake off a major hangover for a pga tour signature event.

The most important event of the year is followed by one of the biggest on the PGA Tour calendar as players make the trip from Augusta, Georgia, to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, for the latest signature event at the 2024 RBC Heritage at Harbour Town Golf Links. 

In total, 69 players will tee it up in the Palmetto State with 26 of the top 30 players in the Official World Golf Rankings jostling to enter the winner's circle. While some big names like Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas and Wyndham Clark were nowhere to be seen over the weekend at Augusta National, they need not worry about that this week with the RBC Heritage being a no-cut event.

As such, the stars will be around for all four days, and there are none shining brighter than world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. Scheffler's grip on the world of golf tightens by the week as he can do no wrong when he steps onto a golf course. Fresh off his Masters victory, the Texan remains in the field for the RBC Heritage and searches for yet another trophy to add to his mantle. The impending birth of his first child may be the only thing to get in the way of his fourth win in his last five starts.

Just because other players may be helpless does not mean they are not playing quality golf in their own right. Xander Schauffele has been brilliant in 2024, Ludvig Åberg's stock has skyrocketed and Tommy Fleetwood remains ultra consistent, but none of that has been enough to usurp Scheffler.

Rory McIlroy has been solid as well, but he looks to add a spark to his season following another disappointing Masters outing. The Northern Irishman makes only his third start at Harbour Town after missing out on last year's festivities. Defending champion Matt Fitzpatrick, 2022 champion Jordan Spieth and other big-time names like Max Homa, Will Zalatoris and Collin Morikawa look to enter the winner's circle for the first time in 2024.

2024 RBC Heritage schedule

Dates:  Apr. 18-21 |  Location:  Harbour Town Golf Links — Hilton Head Island, South Carolina Par:  71 |  Yardage:  7,213 |  Purse:  $20,000,000

2024 RBC Heritage field, odds

• Scottie Scheffler (4-1)
• Xander Schauffele (10-1):  If not for Scheffler, Schauffele's game would be getting a lot more praise. He is now up to No. 3 in the OWGR and ranks second in total strokes gained over the last three months behind only Scheffler. Schauffele has simply been brilliant in 2024 with seven top 10s in 11 tournaments, including close calls at the Players Championship and Genesis Invitational. While he has not yet crossed the finish line, the Olympic gold medalist should sooner rather than later if he keeps up this level of performance.
• Rory McIlroy (12-1): McIlroy has been good but not great in 2024. He has rattled off six straight top-25 finishes with his T22 at the Masters, but that is hardly the barometer by which the four-time major champion gauges his success. He continues to drive the golf ball effectively, but shortcomings in his game appear with his short irons and short game. McIlroy skipped this event last season after a disappointing missed cut and will be making his first appearance since 2020 when it was held in June due to COVID-19.
• Ludvig Åberg (12-1): It's hard not to consider Åberg as one of the top five players in the world at the moment. The young Swede has now finished inside the top 25 in seven straight tournaments with runner-up results at last week's Masters and the shortened AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. He's doing everything well at the moment; his iron play has made a significant step since his rookie season and his putter has been lights out. It's only a matter of time he picks off another trophy.
• Patrick Cantlay (14-1)
• Tommy Fleetwood (18-1)
• Collin Morikawa (18-1): The Masters reminded us that Morikawa is a gamer. Even without his best stuff, the two-time major champion finds a way to muster together something and contend on golf's biggest stage. His play at Augusta National marked his best ball-striking performance since The Sentry, so he has some momentum going forward. Morikawa had been experiencing a frustrating few months, but if the form is for real, then those shortcomings should be no more.
• Max Homa (25-1)
• Matt Fitzpatrick (25-1): It has been a really strong month for the Englishman. Fitzpatrick has now experienced three straight quality outings with a top five at the Players Championship, top 10 at the Texas Open and top 25 at the Masters. His putter has been carrying the load, but don't be shocked if the defending champion's iron play makes the trip to Harbour Town. In addition to his win, Fitzpatrick has three top 15s in his last six appearances.
• Will Zalatoris (28-1)

2024 RBC Heritage expert picks

Who will win the RBC Heritage, and which longshots will stun the golfing world?  Visit SportsLine now to see the projected leaderboard and best bets , all from the model that's nailed 11 golf majors and is up nearly $10,000 since June 2020.

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Karol G’s Mañana Será Bonito Latin America Tour: Best Fashion Moments

From anime-inspired schoolgirl miniskirts to tejano looks, here are some of her best outfits.

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Karol G has traveled across Latin America with her Mañana Será Bonito Tour, paying homage to the countries she’s performing in by wearing a special outfit that represents each country’s respective flag colors. It may be a simple wardrobe choice, but it’s thoughtful and attention to detail that really marks the difference.

Throughout her sets, she has a few outfit changes, from anime-inspired, schoolgirl mini-skirts paired with fuzzy snow boots to show-stopping sparkly long dresses with a flower on her hair as an accessory.  She’s also worn flowy cargo pants with cropped T-shirts and a tejano look with cowboy hat and all. The Colombian hitmaker has perfected an aesthetic for this tour that has become an extension of her artistry.

Karol G’s Latin America tour kicked off Feb. 8 in Mexico City, and has made stops in Colombia, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Venezuela and Perú, among other countries. “These last few days have been busy,” the Grammy-winning artist recently wrote on social media . “Between the tour, the recording studio and everything to come, but I feel infinitely happy and grateful for the moment of my life I’m going through!”

According to Billboard Boxscore, in 2023, Karol — who was honored with woman of the year at  Billboard ‘s 2024 Women in Music event — grossed $155.3 million and sold 925,000 tickets from 20 shows. She landed at No. 11 on the 2023 Year-End Boxscore Charts. The tour is named after her 2023 history-making album, which became the first Spanish-language album by a female artist that has topped the Billboard 200 .

Her LatAm stint continues in countries like Chile, Brazil and Argentina before she heads out to Europe this summer.

Below are some of the best looks from Karol’s Mañana Será Bonito Tour in Latin America.

Mexico City, Mexico

Karol G performed in a show-stopping sparkly long dress during her show at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. 

Mexico City

Sporting Mexico’s flag colors — green, white and red — Karol accessorized the two-piece outfit with pink snow boots, arm warmers and ear muffs. 

Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico

One of Karol’s more relaxed and casual looks, she elevated the outfit wearing a pink daisy in her hair. 

Guatemala City, Guatemala

Karol G opted for neon colors and a blue cowboy hat for her show at Explanada Cardales de Cayalá in Guatemala City.

Guatemala City

Karol G traded her pink miniskirt for a blue-and-white one as an homage to Guatemala’s flag colors. Even her snow boots and socks matched the outfit’s aesthetic. 

San Salvador, El Salvador

Karol G was all smiles in her San Salvador show where she wore a black crop T-shirt stamped with the El Salvador flag in shape of a heart. 

San José, Costa Rica

Karol G was a vision in pink during her performance at Estadio Nacional in San José. 

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Even Karol G’s snow-boot laces turned blue and red to represent the DR’s flag colors. 

Santo Domingo

Karol G wore a stylish rhinestoned jumpsuit with a white crop top underneath, and a pink flower in her hair during her show in Santo Domingo. 

Caracas, Venezuela

Half of Karol’s pink miniskirt was yellow, blue and red in honor of Venezuela’s flag. She paired it with a white crop T-shirt that had the country’s flag in shape of a heart stamped right in the middle. 

Bogotá, Colombia

In her native Colombia, Karol was dressed in yellow, blue and red from head to toe. 

Karol G has rocked a tejano-inspired look more than once during her Latin America tour. In Bogotá, she sparkled in a red cowboy hat that accentuated her flowy pink curls. 

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2024 RBC Heritage best bets, predictions: PGA Tour odds, picks

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While I’m sad that we have to wait another 52 weeks for another Masters , I am happy to report that we had a tremendous week of PGA Tour betting.

We had four picks on the card last week and cashed three of them – Scottie Scheffler to win, Xander Schauffele to finish in the top 10 and Tiger Woods to make the cut.

When you add in the Stephan Jaeger outright at +5000 from a few weeks ago, this has been a great start to the season. Let’s try to keep the momentum going at the RBC Heritage. 

The course in play this week is Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head, S.C. It is a par-71 that measures a little more than 7,200 yards.

Like most Pete Dye courses, this is not one that can be overpowered off the tee. With narrow fairways, doglegs, overhanging tree limbs and water hazards lurking everywhere, this is more of a positional course off the tee.

In other words, you don’t have to be a bomber to play well there. 

The greens at Harbour Town are extremely small (3,400 square feet) and difficult to hit on average. This places an emphasis on both approach play and scrambling.

The three main statistics I am looking at this week from players are strokes-gained approach, strokes gained around the green and bogey avoidance.

Course history has been fairly predictive over the years, so I don’t mind leaning on golfers who have played well here in the past. 

2024 RBC Heritage best bets

Cameron young to win (+3000, fanduel ).

Young has yet to pick up a win on the PGA Tour, but he has been in contention so many times.

In his short career, he has seven runner-up finishes and two third-place finishes. It’s only a matter of time before he gets the breaks he needs on a Sunday.

And the fact he’s won twice on the Korn Ferry Tour shows he knows how to win.

While this is a less-than-driver course for the most part, nearly 40% of approach shots are hit from 150-200 yards. Young is one of the best in the field when it comes to approach shots from that distance.

He’s been in solid form all year and nearly won this event in 2022. 

Wyndham Clark to win (+3500, DraftKings )

Clark missed the cut at the Masters last week, which has led to a very enticing price point in the outright betting market.

If he had made the cut and had a decent weekend, his odds would likely be in the +2000 range. Instead, it’s nearly double that.

He seems to love these Signature Events, as he won at Pebble Beach and finished second at both The Players Championship and the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

He doesn’t have a weakness in his game and he plays this event every year.

If you want to play the regional narrative, he won on a Carolina course last year (Quail Hollow). 

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Shane Lowry top 10 (+330, FanDuel)

Lowry was close to making my outright betting card this week, but his number cratered before I had the chance to bet it. Instead, I will settle for a top-10 finish.

His T33 result at the Masters doesn’t look like much on paper, but he lost eight strokes putting. Had he been just even with the field on the greens, he would have finished in the top 10.

His irons and his play around the green are excellent, and he clearly likes the course. In his last five appearances at Harbour Town, he has finished in the top 10 three times. 

Russell Henley top 20 (+115, DraftKings)

I can’t think of a better course for Henley’s game. He’s accurate off the tee, he’s elite on approach and he’s very good around the greens.

On top of all that, he seems to have found something with his putting this year.

In a field of only 70 golfers, I love his chances of finishing in the top 20. He’s been able to hit that mark in full-field events in eight of his last 13 starts and has hit that mark in two of his last three trips to Harbour Town. 

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Paris Olympics: See the venues of the Summer Games

This summer's Olympics will unfold in more than 30 venues throughout Paris and other cities throughout France. This story is best viewed on mobile in the NBC News app .

by Chet Hill, Jiachuan Wu and Nigel Chiwaya

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The Olympics will transform Paris, with dozens of competitions and events expected to draw huge crowds to one of the world’s most iconic cities. Take a tour of some of the Games’ more noteworthy venues.

The River Seine, which flows through the heart of Paris, will be a central location throughout the Games.

The Seine will be the site of the opening ceremony on July 26, when 10,000 athletes aboard more than 160 boats will parade on the water in front of crowds of up to 300,000. In the following weeks, swimming, triathlon, 3-on-3 basketball, skateboarding and gymnastics competitions will also be held at venues along the river.

Beach volleyball will be played at a temporary stadium, currently under construction, in the Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower Stadium will offer a spectacular view of one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks.

Judo and wrestling competitions will take place at a temporary arena in the Champ de Mars.

The arena will be dismantled after the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Olympic village lies along the Seine’s northern bank and will house more than 20,000 athletes during the Olympics and Paralympic Games combined.

The village is located about a mile away from Stade de France, which will serve as the main Olympic stadium and host major events such as rugby, shot put and track and field.

The Roland Garros Stadium, built in 1928 in western Paris, is traditionally the home of the annual French Open tennis tournament.

During the Paris Olympics, the Roland Garros will host tennis, boxing, wheelchair tennis and sitting volleyball competitions.

The Olympics are not limited to Paris, as events will take place in other French cities, too. Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes and Nice will host soccer games. Sailing competitions will take place at the Marseille marina, and Villeneuve-d’Ascq in northern France will host basketball and handball competitions.

The farthest event of the Games will take place almost 10,000 miles away, in the French Polynesian island of Tahiti.

Teahupo’o, which is home to some of the biggest waves on the planet, will host surfing competitions.

Visual Credits

3D satellite imagery via Google Earth. Photo rendered images: Seine riverbank, Eiffel Tower Stadium: Paris 2024. Champ de Mars Arena: Paris 2024 /Rmngp/Wilmotte&Associes. Stade de France: Paris2024 / Stade de France © - Macary Zublena et Regembal Costantini - Architectes © ADAGP - Paris. Roland-Garros: Paris 2024 /Cédric Lecocq / FFT. Tahiti: Manea Fabisch/Tahiti Tourisme.