FAQ

Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Planning an international tour comes with big questions—and we believe in clear, straightforward answers. Below you’ll find what athletes, families, and coaches most often want to know about USAthlete Tours, from competition and travel logistics to safety, costs, and preparation. Our goal is to help you feel confident, informed, and excited about the experience ahead.

USAthlete Tours are thoughtfully planned to maximize cultural, historical, and educational experiences while remaining efficient and well-paced. Daily itineraries often include one—or occasionally two—guided sightseeing experiences highlighting iconic landmarks, architecture, and local culture. We also intentionally build in free time, allowing athletes and families to explore independently based on personal interests. These periods often coincide with “traveler choice” meals, giving participants flexibility to discover local food, attractions, or experiences at their own pace.

Each tour includes scheduled practices and multiple international competitions, arranged in collaboration with your coaching staff. Competing abroad while representing your team, school, and community is a unique and meaningful experience—one that builds confidence, perspective, and lasting memories. Our tours are designed to ensure all athletes have meaningful playing opportunities that support growth, development, and enjoyment of the sport.

Sport is deeply valued in the countries we visit, and competition is taken seriously. We work closely with trusted international partners to schedule appropriately matched contests that challenge athletes while promoting growth and sportsmanship. Some matchups may favor your team; others may push you to perform at your highest level. These international “friendlies” consistently result in competitive, respectful, and rewarding athletic experiences.

Yes—family members are welcome and encouraged to attend. It is common for up to half of participating athletes to have one or more family members traveling with them. Tours naturally balance team bonding time with opportunities for athletes and families to share special moments together. Many family travelers also form lasting friendships during the journey.

Adult tour rates may be slightly higher (typically under $100) than student-athlete rates. Siblings may attend when traveling with a parent and may qualify for student pricing if enrolled. Extended family members have also joined past tours. Travelers should be comfortable walking long distances, sometimes on uneven terrain or inclines.

Tour inclusions vary slightly by itinerary and are outlined in the Traveler Information document. Packages may include international airfare, with land-only options available. All tours include accommodations, daily breakfast, most dinners, ground transportation, site admissions, and guided touring as scheduled. A full-time bilingual tour manager and a USAthlete Tours coordinator provide on-site support throughout the journey. Some tours may also include special gifts or souvenirs.

Current pricing is published for each tour and professionally quoted. Final pricing is confirmed closer to departure and accounts for currency exchange rates and airfare-related costs. Pricing changes are uncommon and typically minimal; historically, no supplement has exceeded $150.

Yes. Travelers may arrange their own flights and meet the group at the arrival city, paying the land-only rate. In some cases—and with head coach approval—athletes may also travel independently with family. USAthlete Tours can assist with coordination to ensure a smooth arrival.

Many athletes combine saving and fundraising to support their tour. Upon registration, each athlete receives access to a personal online contribution page that can be shared with family, friends, and supporters. Contributions go directly toward the athlete’s tour account.

Additional fundraising ideas include requesting contributions in place of holiday or graduation gifts, sending sponsorship letters to mentors, or reaching out to local service organizations and offering to share the educational and cultural value of the experience.

All travelers must have a valid passport that remains valid through the end of the calendar year of travel. If a passport is expiring, renewal should begin as soon as possible. New applicants should apply immediately, as processing times may take up to four months. Be sure all information matches official documents exactly.

For current details, visit travel.state.gov/passport.

Athletes typically room with teammates, though some choose to room with a parent or sibling. Single-room accommodations may be available for adults for an additional supplement. We work to accommodate preferences whenever possible.

Travelers should budget for souvenirs, snacks, and any traveler-choice meals not included in the itinerary. Tipping is generally not required at included meals; however, rounding up is customary at traveler-choice dining. A modest gratuity for the tour manager (minimum $10 per week) and motor coach driver ($5) is expected.

Safety is a top priority. USAthlete Tours and our partners closely monitor travel advisories and local conditions. Experienced tour managers oversee daily operations, and private motor coaches are used for secure transportation. The regions we visit are statistically very safe, with visible security at major sites.

USAthlete Tours follows all public health policies set by the countries we visit. At this time, there are no travel restrictions affecting our tour destinations.

In the months leading up to departure, travelers receive detailed preparation materials, including Tour Tips, Packing Guidelines, and Departure Instructions. These resources cover weather, currency, electronics, communication, meals, and other practical considerations to ensure a smooth and well-prepared experience.

View our general Packing Guidelines and FAQ