Get 10% off all tours with code SUMMER10

Get 10% off all tours with code SUMMER10

What should I do if I cannot find my driver?

Call your group leader using the number sent in your welcome email. They will assist you.

What are the passport requirements?

Your passport must have at least six months’ validity and two blank pages. You should also have proof of onward travel.

Is my money protected?

Absolutely. Your payment is secure. Backpacking Tours is a licensed tour operator in Thailand (TAT Licence No. 11/12642), and we use trusted international payment providers. Your booking is safe, and our team is here to support you every step of the way.

What travel insurance do you recommend?

We highly recommend that you travel with insurance for complete peace of mind. Please click here.

How will I access money while I’m away?

We recommend using a Wise travel card. It works in most places and supports Apple Pay and Google Pay. ATMs are widely available, but some places may accept cash only, so it’s good to carry some local currency.

Do I need travel insurance for the tour?

Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. You’ll need to show proof of your policy to your group leader upon arrival (on your phone or printed). You can get a quote and purchase your travel insurance here.

(Volunteer Program) What should I wear? Is there a dress code?

It depends on which project you have chosen. Some projects require formal dressing. Therefore, packing a few formal clothes won’t harm

(Volunteer Program) Do I need to be fit/in shape for my project?

We should always be healthy and maintain our fitness. However, it depends on the project you choose and you should always be ready to work.

(Volunteer Program) How old do I have to be?

We accept participants aged from 16 and above. Participants under the age of 18 must travel with a parent or legal guardian. There is no upper age limit however, we recommend participants to check with the program options that are available.

(Volunteer Program) How can I prepare mentally?

Our Culture week program covers most of the topics including culture shock and how to adapt to Culture and Traditions. One should come with an open mind. We suggest you to go through the program guide.

Can I contact other people who have booked onto the same tour as me?

Of course! We encourage everyone to talk over our social networks. You can find a list of them at the bottom of this page. If you’ve joined a tour, we will send you an invite to a dedicated Facebook group made for your tour a few weeks before it starts. Your tour guide and a tour manager will also be in the group to answer any questions you may have. You can also join the General Discussion Board on Facebook!

Does it matter if I arrive before my starting date?

No problem at all - just make sure to arrive at the hotel for the starting date of the tour! We can arrange early night’s accommodation at the hotel and airport transfer or provide easy-to-use directions for getting from the airport in Negombo to our hotel where there are many other accommodation options if you prefer to shop around for pricing.

Can I do this tour alone?

Yes, many travellers—both male and female—travel alone throughout Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. Most group members on our trips will be solo travellers and we absolutely love it. Upon arrival, we will pick you up from the airport, you will meet your travel mates and the adventure begins.

Is there an age requirement to join a tour?

We have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old to join the tour. Group members aged 16-17 years old are welcome to join the tour but only with a family member that will act as their guardian whilst on tour. Aside from that, no age requirements at all! While our target age is 18-35, we have had many 35+ year old group members join us on tour. It is more about mindset than anything else so if you are looking for a backpacking experience, with backpacker style accommodation and expectations for transportation and evening activities (always optional), then we invite you to join us for an adventure.

Do I need any vaccinations?

Yes, please arrange an appointment with your local physician and explain your travel plans. Most hospitals have travel clinics with helpful information and vaccinations on site. We suggest doing this well before your trip is to begin to ensure there are no unexpected waiting periods during this process! Please visit here for more information: CDC