Yes! For safety purposes we recognize that students having their phones is important. School rools apply during the day with their phones and we do like to participate in something we like to call, "Digital Detox Moments."

A Digital Detox Moment is a space of time being free from electronics. When chaperones encourage these moments, we find that travelers are able to give their whole time and attention to their guides and gain new connections with peers and the group leaders. They are able to be fully present -- laughing and joking-- with their peers, which will turn into moments they’ll remember the rest of their lives because they were fully there!

Throughout the trip, chaperones will intentionally enact digital detox moments. This may look like:

• Electronic devices not being allowed during meals. This encourages students to chat among their peers and enjoy. 

• Electronic devices are not being allowed while a tour guide is talking or while the group is in motion. Our guides WANT students to take pictures, so they will always provide stops to make sure they can get the perfect views of D.C. or Baltimore

• During small trips on the bus, cell phones will not be used. This encourages active listening while our tour guide is sharing about D.C. or Baltimore. 

We love that you want to be involved, but to emphasize the educational aspect of this trip, we are able to fill our chaperone spots with staff members from Petoskey Middle School! 

We always lean toward suggesting anywhere between $50-$150. This seems to be a good amount for souvenirs. We do try to stop at a souvenir store in Washington D.C., but beyond that, students can shop at museum stores for any keepsakes they're interested in. 

Many locations are cashless, so setting up ApplePay, GPay, or a different electronic payment on your child's phone is not a bad idea. The museums and souvenir store do still accept cash! 

We do not recommend taking Visa gift cards anymore. On a previous trip, students' were unable to access their funds and the cards were declined. 

Yes! In late November, students will get to pick their roommates, and they'll also be on the same bus together. 

We always recommend that a traveler find a partner to make the pairing process a little simpler. But, if a traveler doesn't have a partner, we will definitely find someone to pair them up with in November. 

Yes! We will have snacks for them, but they are welcome to bring their own. We ask that you please do not send them with energy drinks or dairy products. 

We do expect our Northmen Travelers to represent our schools, and part of that is through what they wear. We like to say that we're elevating their academic trip by elevating their dress. We ask that on days we are not traveling for multiple hours that students be conscious of NOT wearing jeans, sweatpants, or pajamas. They are welcome to wear nicer pants, tops, and leggings with longer tops or dresses, and tennis shoes for walking. Please references this infographic for more dress code ideas!