Frequently asked questions about traveling with NPCA on a Travel Collection trip.
Who can participate in an NPCA trip?
One traveler per group must be an active member of the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) to participate in (or be waitlisted for) an NPCA trip. NPCA members are those who give $15 or more annually. NPCA is the only independent, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advocacy on behalf of the National Park System. We are 100% privately funded and we rely on donations from individuals like you. For more information on member benefits, or to become a member, visit npca.org/give/join.
How do I book a trip with NPCA?
For current availability and detailed trip itineraries, and to reserve your space on a trip, visit npca.org/travel or please contact NPCA’s National Parks Experiences Program at travel@npca.org or 1-800-628-7275.
What is included in the trip cost?
The trip cost typically covers a range of amenities and services to ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable experience. While the specifics may vary from trip to trip, our standard inclusions typically encompass meals, accommodations, snacks, interpretive guides and special speakers, and transportation within the itinerary destination(s). Please refer to the individual trip webpage and trip brochure for specific details for each departure; these resources provide comprehensive information about each trip’s inclusions, exclusions, and any additional services or activities offered.
Are flights included in the trip cost?
Flights are generally not included in the trip cost. As travelers have different preferences, schedules and departure locations, we leave the flexibility of booking flights to each participant. This allows each traveler to choose the most convenient and cost-effective options to suit their needs.
Does NPCA offer travel protection insurance?
While NPCA does not offer travel insurance, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that will cover you for a variety of travel-related contingencies, such as trip cancellation, interruption, and/or delay; baggage loss, theft, damage or delay; accident and/or sickness medical expenses; accidental death; as well as evacuation/repatriation coverage. Please note that a Pre-Existing Condition waiver is available if you purchase the policy within 21 days of making your initial trip payment. Also consider the optional “Cancel for any Reason” protection, which will provide coverage if you decide not to travel because of fear. It is important to note that “fear” of traveling will not be covered under regular travel insurance – if this coverage is important, you would need to purchase “Cancel for any Reason” within 21 days of making your initial trip payment. All questions regarding the plan’s coverage or COVID-19 related questions should be directed to Travel Insurance Select through USI Affinity at 1-800-937-1387 or by visiting their website.
Why are your cancellation terms and final payment dates different from trip-to-trip?
NPCA works with a number of experienced tour operators, carefully selected for their expertise in small-group educational travel to national parks. Because each itinerary (with the exception of our small-ship cruises) is custom-designed and specifically curated to highlight NPCA’s important contributions to park protection, we select tour operators who can provide the best value for our members. Each tour operator establishes their own cancellation terms and payment schedule based on a variety of factors.
What does the trip minimum mean?
In order to maintain the small group size of our trips, each of our tour operator partners requires us to have a minimum number of guests to ensure the trip is economically feasible. Because each NPCA trip is all-inclusive (including meals, accommodations, snacks, interpretive guides, special speakers and transportation within the destination) and custom-designed to highlight NPCA’s important contributions to park protection, the value of the trip is specifically based on having a specified number of participants. The benefit of this is that it allows NPCA to feature exclusive experiences within the parks and special behind-the-scenes access to National Park Service staff, NPCA partners and other local experts.
Please note: If the trip minimum is not met by the registration deadline, we may need to make the difficult decision to either cancel or postpone the trip. While this is disappointing, it ensures that we can deliver the same exceptional experience for all participants and maintain the financial viability of the trip. In the event that a trip is canceled or postponed, our team will provide you with alternative options, including transferring your registration to a future departure, exploring other NPCA travel opportunities or issuing a refund.
Why do you have a single supplement?
The single supplement is an additional cost for solo travelers. To maintain the small group size of our trips, we have limited hotel rooms available for each itinerary. Consequently, the prices listed for our trips are typically based on double occupancy, with two people sharing a room. In some cases, our tour operator partners may be able to arrange room-sharing opportunities for solo travelers to avoid paying the single supplement. However, this option depends on availability and the agreement of both travelers to share accommodations. If you are interested in exploring the possibility of sharing a room, please let us know so that we can determine feasibility.
How does participating in an NPCA trip support the organization’s conservation efforts?
When you travel with NPCA, you’re directly supporting our mission to protect and preserve national parks. For each trip, a portion of each trip’s fee goes directly to supporting NPCA’s vital park protection work. While this contribution is not tax-deductible for travelers, it plays a meaningful role in advancing NPCA’s efforts to safeguard these treasured places for future generations.
What is the physical fitness level required for NPCA trips?
Our trips are appropriate for people in good health with overall good mobility. Please refer to a trip’s individual webpage and trip brochure for specific details regarding its activity level rating and details. Travelers are responsible for choosing an NPCA trip consistent with their ability, fitness and overall health. Generally speaking, travelers should be prepared for full days of physical activity, which can include hiking, walking or standing for extended periods (sometimes on uneven terrain) and climbing stairs or ladders. Any physical conditions requiring special attention, diet or treatment should be reported to the applicable tour operator when booking to determine what accommodations can be made.
What do I need to bring on my trip?
In advance of trip departure, each of our tour operator partners will provide a detailed packing list. In addition, NPCA will host an optional pre-trip welcome call, which includes a review of (and opportunity to pose questions regarding) packing, weather, and other important information to help prepare you for departure.
Are NPCA trips environmentally responsible and sustainable?
Embracing the principles of responsible travel, NPCA prioritizes minimizing our environmental footprint while maximizing our contributions to local communities. Partnering with like-minded tour operators, we source locally whenever possible, abide by Leave No Trace principles, and emphasize wildlife protection, responsible waste management and the respect of local cultures.
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