Trip Planning

Wagstaff et al. (2007) use a model called GO PREPARED to guide their trip planning. According to Wagstaff et al. (2007), “The foundation of an effective trip plan is well-edited program goals and objectives (GO)” (p. 188). The acronym of PREPARED stands for participants, resources, equipment and clothing, plan, access, rationing, emergency plan, and don’t forget about logistics (Wagstaff et al., 2007). The trip leader must learn who their participants are including age, motivation, and skill sets (Wagstaff et al., 2007). It will also be important to determine what resources are available to execute the trip, such as funding (Wagstaff et al., 2007). A trip leader also needs to determine the necessary equipment and clothing needed for individuals and the group (Wagstaff et al., 2007). When developing the plan, a facilitator should create a detailed itinerary with all activities and determine what permits they may need to access trip areas (Wagstaff et al., 2007). Rationing stands for determining a food menu that meets the needs of all students (Wagstaff et al., 2007). Lastly, a trip leader must develop an emergency plan to deal with incidents and plan for all the logistics related to food, equipment, and participants (Wagstaff et al., 2007).

Below is a detailed list of factors that should be considered when planning a trip.

• Educational Rational: What educational purpose does this trip serve?

• Curriculum Goals and Expectations: What curriculum goals and standards will this trip work to achieve related to student learning?

• Participant and Chaperone Numbers: How many students do you have and how many chaperones will you need to effectively provide a safe trip?

• Transportation Requirements: How will you get all students, chaperones, and gear to and from the trip location? Personal vehicles, school vehicles, etc.?

• School Medication Forms: Student health forms and medication distribution procedures for students during the trip.

• Informational Letter to Parents: Provide parents with a detailed explanation of the trip and its purpose.

• Waiver/Permission Slip: Provide an explanation of potential risks and get parents’ permission.

• DNR permit request/waiver: Do you need parking permits for a state park? Can you get a waiver to bring a school group camping at a state park?

• Reservation Information: Bus reservation, campsite reservations, parking reservations, equipment reservations, etc.

• Equipment List: What equipment is needed by individuals and for the group?

• Plan for Food: Are there any students with allergies? Will students plan their food in small groups? Will the trip leader take responsibility for all the food?

• Cost Breakdown for School and Students: Cost breakdown for factors including transportation, food, equipment, camp fees, vehicle passes, toiletries, hiking fees, etc.

• Itinerary: Detailed plan for trip activities from the time of departure to arrival back at school.

• Risk Plan: Completion of a risk management plan. This plan will include many of the details listed above. Please see the example below for a completed risk management plan.

References

Wagstaff, M., Attarian, A., & Drury, J. (2007). Teaching and leading outdoor adventure pursuits. In D. Prouty, J. Panicucci, & R. Collinson (Eds.), Adventure education: Theory

and application (pp. 181-206). Human Kinetics.