Below we have everything you need to know about booking our group tours, plus answers to frequently asked questions.
We also have plenty of information about travelling in Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia and beyond, gap year travel and adventure travel, plus some general backpacking tips.
Since 2005, we’ve been creating life changing travel experiences for 18-40 year olds. Offering 30+ trips across 10 different and exciting destinations, our travel experiences are designed to help you connect, explore, taste and give back to the world, all whilst making an awesome bunch of new mates along the way. Check out our full story.
All your accommodation, transport, a bunch of meals and (most importantly) all activities are included in the price. Unlike most other tour companies we include all our amazing activities. We don’t charge local payments or offer loads of optional extras that cost you money. Almost all our trips also include a personal airport pick up.
Any additional meals or drinks not listed in our inclusions, international flights to or from our destinations (unless stated as included), travel insurance or visa fees.
At INTRO giving you peace of mind that your trip will be safe, stress-free and totally amazing is our top priority. For more info on how we do this, check out our Travel with Confidence page.
South East Asia is one of the most stunningly beautiful and absolutely fascinating regions on the planet.
From the tropical islands, postcard beaches, crazy nightlife, and endless smiles you'll find in Thailand, to the raw natural beauty, mouthwatering food and endless adventure of Vietnam.
In Indonesia you have the hedonistic lifestyle, awesome accommodation, and amazing wildlife (think cruising with wild dolphins, snorkelling with turtles and spotting wild monkeys) of Bali, contrasted with the ancient wonders, dark history and intriguing culture of Cambodia.
If you're looking to go further throughout Asia, one of our absolute favourites is Sri Lanka. This island's incredible mix of ancient ruins, exotic wildlife, golden beaches, rolling green tea plantations and warm, welcoming culture will seriously blow you away. And if you're after even more wow-factor, Japan will not disappoint. From futuristic cities to ancient Samurai culture, stunning scenery and delicious food, Japan will transport you into another world each and every day.
It's quite common for people to choose Asia as a short holiday destination, or as the starting point for a longer backpacking adventure or gap year.
Whatever your choice, jumping on one of our South East Asia Group Tours will mean you'll experience the absolute best of each destination, make friends for life, and have the kind of adventure you'll brag to your grandkids about.
For loads more info, advice and tips on travelling in Asia, check out our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking South East Asia, our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Sri Lanka, our travel blog, or just contact us!
With thousands of pristine white sandy beaches, stunning ancient rainforests, world-class cities full of laid-back locals, unique wildlife, the incredible Outback, and of course the iconic and breathtakingly beautiful Great Barrier Reef, there's little doubt why Australia is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world.
Whether you plan on taking a short holiday, working holiday, gap year or just backpacking around Australia until your money runs out, there are many things to consider, sort out and prepare yourself for so you can make the most of your time in the Land Down Under.
Our Oz Intro work & travel package was created to take the hassle out of your big adventure and transform you into the ultimate backpacker. We start with helping sort your visa, flights, travel insurance and answering all your important (or silly) questions before you go. On arrival in Sydney you'll get an instant crew of friends and an incredible 9 day group tour showing you the best of Sydney and beyond. Plus, we'll sort everything you'll need to live and work in Australia, along with helping organise all your awesome onward travel plans. We'll be there every step of the way to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime!
Our Oz Adventure trip is the same amazing itinerary as Oz Intro, just without the work help. So it's perfect for those coming to Australia on a Tourist visa.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling Australia please contact us or check out our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Australia and travel blog.
Working abroad should be a fun, rewarding experience. Most common backpacker jobs in Australia such as bar work, office/admin, construction and farm work generally pay quite well, starting at around $18-25 per hour.
But finding a job in a new country can be difficult.
By doing Oz Intro you don’t need to worry. We’ll give you everything you need to find work in Australia, including exclusive access to our own ‘Oz Jobs’ Program.
Before You Start: There's a bunch of important things you’ll need before you start working in Australia such as an Aussie bank account, tax file number and Aussie phone number. You'll get all of this sorted for you on Oz Intro.
Training Courses: Certain jobs such as bar work and construction require you to complete specific training. We’ll explain what’s needed and can book you onto all necessary training courses after Oz Intro.
Oz Jobs Program: You’ll get 12 months membership to our Oz Jobs Program. This includes exclusive access to our Oz Jobs App, where we post lots of great job opportunities every day from our Australia wide network of employers.
Unlimited Help & Advice: Your Group Leader will give you a comprehensive ‘Work in Oz’ presentation, as well as 1-on-1 advice and support on CV building, job finding, interview skills, and anything else you’ll need to secure a great job in Australia.
Office Support: Our Sydney office is your home away from home and base for finding work. We've have unlimited free internet, printers, jobs boards and loads of friendly staff to help you!
Farm Work & 2nd Year Visas: If you do 88 days of regional or farm work in Australia you can apply for a 2nd Working Holiday Visa. We’ll give you lots more info on this during Oz Intro, will help you find farm work and will also help you apply for your 2nd Year Visa.
Tax Stuff: We’ll help you understand how tax and superannuation works in Australia, and can organise any refunds you may be due so you’ll have more money to spend on your travels.
Living in Australia: It can always be daunting finding somewhere to live on the other side of the world. We’ll give you all the assistance needed in finding hostels to stay in or places to rent whilst in Australia.
Jaw dropping scenery, adrenaline-pumping adventure, laid-back locals - you’ll find them all and so much more when travelling in New Zealand! From the snow-capped slopes of Queenstown to the rolling hills of Hobbiton, New Zealand is a country of wilderness, wonder, and opportunities galore.
Whether you plan on taking a short holiday, working holiday, gap year or simply backpacking around New Zealand until your money runs out, there are so many things to organise for you to make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of the world.
And that’s where we come in! Our NZ Intro Work & Travel packages are designed to take the hassle out of your big adventure and transform you into the ultimate backpacker. We’ll sort your visa, travel insurance, and answer all of your questions - silly or serious - before you go. Once you land in New Zealand we’ll pick you up from the airport and introduce you to your instant crew of new friends. Our 9 day group tours of the South and North Island, or full 17 day tour of both, take you around the highlights of New Zealand, including ALL of your activities. Plus, we’ll sort everything you need to live and work in New Zealand, help organise your onward travel plans, and will be there every step of the way to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime!
If you just want to travel the best of New Zealand with a group, then our NZ Adventure group tours are for you! Same impeccable itineraries, same hand-picked inclusions, and same group tour experiences for those travelling on a Tourist visa.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling in New Zealand please contact us or check out our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking New Zealand and travel blog.
Working abroad should be a fun, rewarding experience. Common backpacker jobs in New Zealand such as seasonal work on ski fields, hospitality, office/admin, construction, and farm work generally pay quite well, with the minimum wage starting at $20/hr.
But we get it - finding a job in a new country can be daunting.
By doing NZ Intro you don’t need to worry about a thing! We’ll give you everything you need to find work in New Zealand, including exclusive access to our own ‘NZ Jobs’ program.
Before You Start: There's a bunch of important things you’ll need before you start working in New Zealand such as a NZ bank account, IRD number and New Zealand phone number. You'll get all of this sorted for you on NZ Intro.
Training Courses: Certain jobs such as bar work and construction require you to complete specific training. We’ll explain what’s needed and can book you onto all necessary training courses after your New Zealand tour.
Oz Jobs Program: You'll get lifetime membership to our job program that includes exclusive access to an app where we post loads of job opportunities from our wide network of employers. Perfect if you don't want to stress about finding backpacker jobs when you should be having the time of your life!
Unlimited Help & Advice: Your group leader will give you a comprehensive 'Work in New Zealand' presentation, as well as one on one advice and support on CV building, job finding, interview skills, and anything else you'll need to secure a great job.
Tax Stuff: We’ll help you understand how tax and superannuation works in New Zealand, and can organise any refunds you may be due so you’ll have more money to spend on your travels.
Living in New Zealand: It can be intimidating finding somewhere new to live, especially on the other side of the world! We’ll give you all the assistance you need in finding hostels to stay in or places to rent while living in New Zealand.
Africa truly is a continent of contrasts. From ancient origins as the cradle of civilisation, Africa is a massive continent boasting jaw-dropping natural beauty, exotic wildlife found nowhere else on earth, a unique melting pot of cultures, and authentic experiences around every corner. Seeking real adventure? Look no further than travelling Africa.
Adventure, history, scenery and so many other marvels of the continent are concentrated in South Africa, which is why we've created our South Africa Adventure group tour to show off all the highlights (and throw in some off the beaten path adventures). Imagine cruising the savannah on safari one day, soaring above Cape Town on Table Mountain the next. Backpacking South Africa will take your breath away.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling South Africa or Africa in general please contact us or check out our travel blog.
Combine Mayan ruins dripping in mystery with lush rainforests, charming colonial towns, cloud-shrouded volcanoes, plunging waterfalls, palm-fringed Caribbean coastlines, bustling marketplaces, joyous fiestas and welcoming locals... you've got Latin America. Seeking to add a little bit of colour and spice to your backpacking adventures? Latin America delivers.
Mexico's intoxicating energy that will entice you back again and again, which is why we've created our Viva Mexico group tour to show off all the sights, sounds, and salsa this vibrant country has to offer. From the cultural splendour of Mexico City to the beaches and nightlife of Yucatan - and everything in between - backpacking Mexico will leave a lasting impression.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling Mexico or Latin America please contact us or check out our travel blog.
If you're struggling to convince your friends to join you on an adventure, you're not alone!
Travelling solo on a group tour can be one of the most exciting ways to experience a new destination, and you won't have to wait around for your mates to be ready. You leave yourself open to meeting amazing people, making new friends, and can keep yourself and your onward travel plans flexible.
The majority of our group members are solo travellers, so joining one of our group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends. Before your trip starts we'll put you in touch with the rest of your group so you can start chatting and get to know each other. And after the trip a lot of people continue travelling with the new friends they've made.
Our groups fill up fast, so the earlier you book, the better.
Payment
If it's more than 30 days before your start date you can reserve a space on a group by completing a booking and paying a deposit. Full payment must be made at least 30 days before your start date.
If you're making a new booking within 30 days of your start date you’ll need to pay in full to confirm your space.
Payment Plans
You also have the option to pay off your trip in easy, interest free instalments whenever you like from the time you pay your deposit until 30 days before your travel date. Payment plans are a popular choice as you avoid having to pay your entire outstanding balance just before you travel.
Flexible Deposits
Stuff happens, plans change, so if you can’t travel for any reason you can move your date to any date in the future. You can even ‘open date’ your booking and decide your travel date later, or swap your tour for any other tour.
If you tell us more than 30 days before your start date then it's free to do this. If it’s within 30 days then there will be a minimum £100 / $200 charge. Additional charges may apply depending on your destination of travel and notice given.
Are flights included?
Flights to and from the destination are not included in the price of the trip, but our trips do include all your accommodation, an incredible itinerary with loads of amazing activities, a bunch of meals, and an airport pickup. If any of our tours show an internal flight as part of the itinerary, then it's included.
When should I book my flight to arrive?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date of our tours as there are no activities on the first day, so you’ll have plenty of time to recover from your flight and meet everyone in your group.
Please note that the below information is of a general nature and visa requirements can change, so it’s always best to check with your local embassy or consulate before travelling. If you’re unsure of your visa requirements or need further help please contact us.
Visas for Australia:
You must have a valid visa to enter Australia. Most of our Oz Intro group members get either a 12 month Working Holiday Visa or a 3 month Tourist Visa. We can apply for your visa so you don’t have to worry! There are a few different visas for going backpacking in Australia and it’s important you understand the conditions of your visa.
Click here to see your visa options.
Visas for Thailand:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and Brazil do not require a visa for Thailand. As long as you have a passport with at least 6 months validity then you will receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival. However some nationalities (e.g. Colombian, Mexican) must apply for their visa beforehand.
Visas for Bali:
Most nationalities will receive a 30-day visa on arrival in Bali. This visa is free for most nationalities and costs approximately $35USD for others. Some nationalities (e.g. Colombian) must apply for their visa beforehand.
Visas for Vietnam:
It’s important to check your visa requirements before entering Vietnam as rules can change with short notice. Depending on your nationality and how long you’re planning on staying in Vietnam there are a few options:
Visas for Cambodia:
Most nationalities are able to get a visa on arrival in Cambodia. The visa on arrival is for a maximum of 30 days and costs approx. $35USD and will be payable on arrival in cash. Some nationalities may need to make advance arrangements.
Visas for Sri Lanka:
Most nationalities require a visa or ETA (electronic travel authority) to enter Sri Lanka. The visa is typically for 30 days and can be done on arrival at the airport or online at http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/and costs approx. $35USD.
Visas for Japan:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and Brazil will generally receive a 90-day visa on arrival for free.
Visas for the Philippines:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and most South American countries will generally receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival for free. Brazilian passport holders can receive a 59-day visa exemption on arrival for free.
Visas for South Africa:
Passport holders from the UK, Australia, Canada, Denmark, New Zealand, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and some other select countries are not required to have a visa when entering South Africa for an intended stay of 90 days or less. Citizens of other countries are required to obtain a Visitor’s Visa.
Visas for Mexico:
If you are a permanent resident of the United States, Canada, UK or Japan you do not need a visitor visa to enter as a tourist. Most other passport holders do not need a visitor visa if staying in Mexico for less than 180 days.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. Click here to organise a quote and policy for yourself.
To participate in any INTRO Travel tour you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with a recognised vaccine for your destination of travel, or have a medical exemption certificate from a medical professional along with a negative test no more than 72 hours prior to day 1 of the tour. You will be asked to provide either proof of vaccination or medical exemption with negative test to your Group Leader prior to starting the tour.
There are no other mandatory vaccinations needed to enter any of our destinations, however there are a variety of recommended vaccinations you should consider before travelling. If you are unsure or need advice we recommend discussing your travel plans with your local GP. There are also many helpful resources online, such as this fit for travel page from the UK government.
How much spending money will I need?
All activities, accommodation, transport and some meals are included on our trips, so you’ll just need money for extra meals, drinks, shopping and onward travel. We recommend bringing at least £150 / $300 spending money for every week you're away.
Australia: If you’re on a Working Holiday Visa and plan on staying in Australia for at least a few months then we recommend arriving with at least £2000 / $3000.
What’s the best way to access my money?
It’s best to take a Visa or Master Card debit, credit or travel money card. There are ATM’s available throughout all our destinations so it’s easy to get access to cash. Some places accept credit card, but not all.
Australia: If you’re on a Working Holiday Visa then we’ll open up a local bank account for you. So we recommend transferring your money into your new Aussie bank account to avoid international bank fees.
Responsible travel is a philosophy we take seriously.
Some important areas of our responsible travel policy include:
Beyond the basic principles of responsible travel, our own socially conscious initiative Small Change is focused on making a positive difference to the destinations we operate in. One key part of Small Change is our commitment to plant 10 trees for every booking we receive.
Once you book you’ll get access to our Manage My Booking area to complete all parts of your booking and ensure you're ready to go.
You'll also be prompted to download the INTRO Travel App, which has all the important information you'll need for your trip including stuff to get sorted before you go, a packing checklist, your full itinerary, country info, and everything you'll need to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
Backpack or suitcase? And how much should I bring?
We always recommend travelling with a backpack and packing light! 10 - 20kgs of stuff should be plenty. And because it’s often quite hot in our destinations, dragging around a huge suitcase is not fun!
When is the best time to travel?
Most of our trips operate 12 months of the year. Although our destinations have unique seasons that can bring different weather, there’s no real ‘bad’ time of year to travel with us!
Most of our trips provide a personal airport pickup. Before you travel you’ll receive detailed info on where to go to start your INTRO tour, including exclusive access to the INTRO Travel app.
You will also be personally contacted by your group leader and be connected with other group members before you depart to ensure the start of your trip is totally stress-free.
If you have any questions that aren’t covered in the INTRO app, or any other pre-departure info we provide, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help you.
How many people will be in my group?
Our groups average 12-16 people with a maximum group size of between 16-22 depending on the trip.
What happens if I’m travelling alone?
Our accommodation is a mix of twin, triple or multi-share depending on the trip, so we will put you in a room with someone of the same gender. Occasionally there are private room options for an extra charge.
Will I get by without knowing the local language?
In the majority of places we visit the locals speak English. We’ll also teach you some key words and phrases to help you get by, connect with locals, and have more fun!
There's also basic language translations along with other relevant country info on our INTRO Travel app.
A big part of the INTRO Travel difference is our after-trip support. Your group leader will spend enough time as needed to ensure you are totally comfortable and confident with where you’re going next. And can help organise and book whatever you need, including any transport, accommodation or trips you may want. We'll also provide 24/7 support and advice after your trip, and will always be there to help when you need it.
Please head to our terms & conditions page for our full T&C's & Privacy Policy.
GET IN TOUCH
If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact us.
Below we have everything you need to know about booking our group tours, plus answers to frequently asked questions.
We also have plenty of information about travelling in Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia and beyond, gap year travel and adventure travel, plus some general backpacking tips.
Since 2005, we’ve been creating life changing travel experiences for 18-40 year olds. Offering 30+ trips across 10 different and exciting destinations, our travel experiences are designed to help you connect, explore, taste and give back to the world, all whilst making an awesome bunch of new mates along the way. Check out our full story.
All your accommodation, transport, a bunch of meals and (most importantly) all activities are included in the price. Unlike most other tour companies we include all our amazing activities. We don’t charge local payments or offer loads of optional extras that cost you money. Almost all our trips also include a personal airport pick up.
Any additional meals or drinks not listed in our inclusions, international flights to or from our destinations (unless stated as included), travel insurance or visa fees.
At INTRO giving you peace of mind that your trip will be safe, stress-free and totally amazing is our top priority. For more info on how we do this, check out our Travel with Confidence page.
South East Asia is one of the most stunningly beautiful and absolutely fascinating regions on the planet.
From the tropical islands, postcard beaches, crazy nightlife, and endless smiles you'll find in Thailand, to the raw natural beauty, mouthwatering food and endless adventure of Vietnam.
In Indonesia you have the hedonistic lifestyle, awesome accommodation, and amazing wildlife (think cruising with wild dolphins, snorkelling with turtles and spotting wild monkeys) of Bali, contrasted with the ancient wonders, dark history and intriguing culture of Cambodia.
If you're looking to go further throughout Asia, one of our absolute favourites is Sri Lanka. This island's incredible mix of ancient ruins, exotic wildlife, golden beaches, rolling green tea plantations and warm, welcoming culture will seriously blow you away. And if you're after even more wow-factor, Japan will not disappoint. From futuristic cities to ancient Samurai culture, stunning scenery and delicious food, Japan will transport you into another world each and every day.
It's quite common for people to choose Asia as a short holiday destination, or as the starting point for a longer backpacking adventure or gap year.
Whatever your choice, jumping on one of our South East Asia Group Tours will mean you'll experience the absolute best of each destination, make friends for life, and have the kind of adventure you'll brag to your grandkids about.
For loads more info, advice and tips on travelling in Asia, check out our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking South East Asia, our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Sri Lanka, our travel blog, or just contact us!
With thousands of pristine white sandy beaches, stunning ancient rainforests, world-class cities full of laid-back locals, unique wildlife, the incredible Outback, and of course the iconic and breathtakingly beautiful Great Barrier Reef, there's little doubt why Australia is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world.
Whether you plan on taking a short holiday, working holiday, gap year or just backpacking around Australia until your money runs out, there are many things to consider, sort out and prepare yourself for so you can make the most of your time in the Land Down Under.
Our Oz Intro work & travel package was created to take the hassle out of your big adventure and transform you into the ultimate backpacker. We start with helping sort your visa, flights, travel insurance and answering all your important (or silly) questions before you go. On arrival in Sydney you'll get an instant crew of friends and an incredible 9 day group tour showing you the best of Sydney and beyond. Plus, we'll sort everything you'll need to live and work in Australia, along with helping organise all your awesome onward travel plans. We'll be there every step of the way to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime!
Our Oz Adventure trip is the same amazing itinerary as Oz Intro, just without the work help. So it's perfect for those coming to Australia on a Tourist visa.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling Australia please contact us or check out our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Australia and travel blog.
Working abroad should be a fun, rewarding experience. Most common backpacker jobs in Australia such as bar work, office/admin, construction and farm work generally pay quite well, starting at around $18-25 per hour.
But finding a job in a new country can be difficult.
By doing Oz Intro you don’t need to worry. We’ll give you everything you need to find work in Australia, including exclusive access to our own ‘Oz Jobs’ Program.
Before You Start: There's a bunch of important things you’ll need before you start working in Australia such as an Aussie bank account, tax file number and Aussie phone number. You'll get all of this sorted for you on Oz Intro.
Training Courses: Certain jobs such as bar work and construction require you to complete specific training. We’ll explain what’s needed and can book you onto all necessary training courses after Oz Intro.
Oz Jobs Program: You’ll get 12 months membership to our Oz Jobs Program. This includes exclusive access to our Oz Jobs App, where we post lots of great job opportunities every day from our Australia wide network of employers.
Unlimited Help & Advice: Your Group Leader will give you a comprehensive ‘Work in Oz’ presentation, as well as 1-on-1 advice and support on CV building, job finding, interview skills, and anything else you’ll need to secure a great job in Australia.
Office Support: Our Sydney office is your home away from home and base for finding work. We've have unlimited free internet, printers, jobs boards and loads of friendly staff to help you!
Farm Work & 2nd Year Visas: If you do 88 days of regional or farm work in Australia you can apply for a 2nd Working Holiday Visa. We’ll give you lots more info on this during Oz Intro, will help you find farm work and will also help you apply for your 2nd Year Visa.
Tax Stuff: We’ll help you understand how tax and superannuation works in Australia, and can organise any refunds you may be due so you’ll have more money to spend on your travels.
Living in Australia: It can always be daunting finding somewhere to live on the other side of the world. We’ll give you all the assistance needed in finding hostels to stay in or places to rent whilst in Australia.
Jaw dropping scenery, adrenaline-pumping adventure, laid-back locals - you’ll find them all and so much more when travelling in New Zealand! From the snow-capped slopes of Queenstown to the rolling hills of Hobbiton, New Zealand is a country of wilderness, wonder, and opportunities galore.
Whether you plan on taking a short holiday, working holiday, gap year or simply backpacking around New Zealand until your money runs out, there are so many things to organise for you to make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of the world.
And that’s where we come in! Our NZ Intro Work & Travel packages are designed to take the hassle out of your big adventure and transform you into the ultimate backpacker. We’ll sort your visa, travel insurance, and answer all of your questions - silly or serious - before you go. Once you land in New Zealand we’ll pick you up from the airport and introduce you to your instant crew of new friends. Our 9 day group tours of the South and North Island, or full 17 day tour of both, take you around the highlights of New Zealand, including ALL of your activities. Plus, we’ll sort everything you need to live and work in New Zealand, help organise your onward travel plans, and will be there every step of the way to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime!
If you just want to travel the best of New Zealand with a group, then our NZ Adventure group tours are for you! Same impeccable itineraries, same hand-picked inclusions, and same group tour experiences for those travelling on a Tourist visa.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling in New Zealand please contact us or check out our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking New Zealand and travel blog.
Working abroad should be a fun, rewarding experience. Common backpacker jobs in New Zealand such as seasonal work on ski fields, hospitality, office/admin, construction, and farm work generally pay quite well, with the minimum wage starting at $20/hr.
But we get it - finding a job in a new country can be daunting.
By doing NZ Intro you don’t need to worry about a thing! We’ll give you everything you need to find work in New Zealand, including exclusive access to our own ‘NZ Jobs’ program.
Before You Start: There's a bunch of important things you’ll need before you start working in New Zealand such as a NZ bank account, IRD number and New Zealand phone number. You'll get all of this sorted for you on NZ Intro.
Training Courses: Certain jobs such as bar work and construction require you to complete specific training. We’ll explain what’s needed and can book you onto all necessary training courses after your New Zealand tour.
Oz Jobs Program: You'll get lifetime membership to our job program that includes exclusive access to an app where we post loads of job opportunities from our wide network of employers. Perfect if you don't want to stress about finding backpacker jobs when you should be having the time of your life!
Unlimited Help & Advice: Your group leader will give you a comprehensive 'Work in New Zealand' presentation, as well as one on one advice and support on CV building, job finding, interview skills, and anything else you'll need to secure a great job.
Tax Stuff: We’ll help you understand how tax and superannuation works in New Zealand, and can organise any refunds you may be due so you’ll have more money to spend on your travels.
Living in New Zealand: It can be intimidating finding somewhere new to live, especially on the other side of the world! We’ll give you all the assistance you need in finding hostels to stay in or places to rent while living in New Zealand.
Africa truly is a continent of contrasts. From ancient origins as the cradle of civilisation, Africa is a massive continent boasting jaw-dropping natural beauty, exotic wildlife found nowhere else on earth, a unique melting pot of cultures, and authentic experiences around every corner. Seeking real adventure? Look no further than travelling Africa.
Adventure, history, scenery and so many other marvels of the continent are concentrated in South Africa, which is why we've created our South Africa Adventure group tour to show off all the highlights (and throw in some off the beaten path adventures). Imagine cruising the savannah on safari one day, soaring above Cape Town on Table Mountain the next. Backpacking South Africa will take your breath away.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling South Africa or Africa in general please contact us or check out our travel blog.
Combine Mayan ruins dripping in mystery with lush rainforests, charming colonial towns, cloud-shrouded volcanoes, plunging waterfalls, palm-fringed Caribbean coastlines, bustling marketplaces, joyous fiestas and welcoming locals... you've got Latin America. Seeking to add a little bit of colour and spice to your backpacking adventures? Latin America delivers.
Mexico's intoxicating energy that will entice you back again and again, which is why we've created our Viva Mexico group tour to show off all the sights, sounds, and salsa this vibrant country has to offer. From the cultural splendour of Mexico City to the beaches and nightlife of Yucatan - and everything in between - backpacking Mexico will leave a lasting impression.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling Mexico or Latin America please contact us or check out our travel blog.
If you're struggling to convince your friends to join you on an adventure, you're not alone!
Travelling solo on a group tour can be one of the most exciting ways to experience a new destination, and you won't have to wait around for your mates to be ready. You leave yourself open to meeting amazing people, making new friends, and can keep yourself and your onward travel plans flexible.
The majority of our group members are solo travellers, so joining one of our group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends. Before your trip starts we'll put you in touch with the rest of your group so you can start chatting and get to know each other. And after the trip a lot of people continue travelling with the new friends they've made.
Our groups fill up fast, so the earlier you book, the better.
Payment
If it's more than 30 days before your start date you can reserve a space on a group by completing a booking and paying a deposit. Full payment must be made at least 30 days before your start date.
If you're making a new booking within 30 days of your start date you’ll need to pay in full to confirm your space.
Payment Plans
You also have the option to pay off your trip in easy, interest free instalments whenever you like from the time you pay your deposit until 30 days before your travel date. Payment plans are a popular choice as you avoid having to pay your entire outstanding balance just before you travel.
Flexible Deposits
Stuff happens, plans change, so if you can’t travel for any reason you can move your date to any date in the future. You can even ‘open date’ your booking and decide your travel date later, or swap your tour for any other tour.
If you tell us more than 30 days before your start date then it's free to do this. If it’s within 30 days then there will be a minimum £100 / $200 charge. Additional charges may apply depending on your destination of travel and notice given.
Are flights included?
Flights to and from the destination are not included in the price of the trip, but our trips do include all your accommodation, an incredible itinerary with loads of amazing activities, a bunch of meals, and an airport pickup. If any of our tours show an internal flight as part of the itinerary, then it's included.
When should I book my flight to arrive?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date of our tours as there are no activities on the first day, so you’ll have plenty of time to recover from your flight and meet everyone in your group.
Please note that the below information is of a general nature and visa requirements can change, so it’s always best to check with your local embassy or consulate before travelling. If you’re unsure of your visa requirements or need further help please contact us.
Visas for Australia:
You must have a valid visa to enter Australia. Most of our Oz Intro group members get either a 12 month Working Holiday Visa or a 3 month Tourist Visa. We can apply for your visa so you don’t have to worry! There are a few different visas for going backpacking in Australia and it’s important you understand the conditions of your visa.
Click here to see your visa options.
Visas for Thailand:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and Brazil do not require a visa for Thailand. As long as you have a passport with at least 6 months validity then you will receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival. However some nationalities (e.g. Colombian, Mexican) must apply for their visa beforehand.
Visas for Bali:
Most nationalities will receive a 30-day visa on arrival in Bali. This visa is free for most nationalities and costs approximately $35USD for others. Some nationalities (e.g. Colombian) must apply for their visa beforehand.
Visas for Vietnam:
It’s important to check your visa requirements before entering Vietnam as rules can change with short notice. Depending on your nationality and how long you’re planning on staying in Vietnam there are a few options:
Visas for Cambodia:
Most nationalities are able to get a visa on arrival in Cambodia. The visa on arrival is for a maximum of 30 days and costs approx. $35USD and will be payable on arrival in cash. Some nationalities may need to make advance arrangements.
Visas for Sri Lanka:
Most nationalities require a visa or ETA (electronic travel authority) to enter Sri Lanka. The visa is typically for 30 days and can be done on arrival at the airport or online at http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/and costs approx. $35USD.
Visas for Japan:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and Brazil will generally receive a 90-day visa on arrival for free.
Visas for the Philippines:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and most South American countries will generally receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival for free. Brazilian passport holders can receive a 59-day visa exemption on arrival for free.
Visas for South Africa:
Passport holders from the UK, Australia, Canada, Denmark, New Zealand, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and some other select countries are not required to have a visa when entering South Africa for an intended stay of 90 days or less. Citizens of other countries are required to obtain a Visitor’s Visa.
Visas for Mexico:
If you are a permanent resident of the United States, Canada, UK or Japan you do not need a visitor visa to enter as a tourist. Most other passport holders do not need a visitor visa if staying in Mexico for less than 180 days.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. Click here to organise a quote and policy for yourself.
To participate in any INTRO Travel tour you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with a recognised vaccine for your destination of travel, or have a medical exemption certificate from a medical professional along with a negative test no more than 72 hours prior to day 1 of the tour. You will be asked to provide either proof of vaccination or medical exemption with negative test to your Group Leader prior to starting the tour.
There are no other mandatory vaccinations needed to enter any of our destinations, however there are a variety of recommended vaccinations you should consider before travelling. If you are unsure or need advice we recommend discussing your travel plans with your local GP. There are also many helpful resources online, such as this fit for travel page from the UK government.
How much spending money will I need?
All activities, accommodation, transport and some meals are included on our trips, so you’ll just need money for extra meals, drinks, shopping and onward travel. We recommend bringing at least £150 / $300 spending money for every week you're away.
Australia: If you’re on a Working Holiday Visa and plan on staying in Australia for at least a few months then we recommend arriving with at least £2000 / $3000.
What’s the best way to access my money?
It’s best to take a Visa or Master Card debit, credit or travel money card. There are ATM’s available throughout all our destinations so it’s easy to get access to cash. Some places accept credit card, but not all.
Australia: If you’re on a Working Holiday Visa then we’ll open up a local bank account for you. So we recommend transferring your money into your new Aussie bank account to avoid international bank fees.
Responsible travel is a philosophy we take seriously.
Some important areas of our responsible travel policy include:
Beyond the basic principles of responsible travel, our own socially conscious initiative Small Change is focused on making a positive difference to the destinations we operate in. One key part of Small Change is our commitment to plant 10 trees for every booking we receive.
Once you book you’ll get access to our Manage My Booking area to complete all parts of your booking and ensure you're ready to go.
You'll also be prompted to download the INTRO Travel App, which has all the important information you'll need for your trip including stuff to get sorted before you go, a packing checklist, your full itinerary, country info, and everything you'll need to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
Backpack or suitcase? And how much should I bring?
We always recommend travelling with a backpack and packing light! 10 - 20kgs of stuff should be plenty. And because it’s often quite hot in our destinations, dragging around a huge suitcase is not fun!
When is the best time to travel?
Most of our trips operate 12 months of the year. Although our destinations have unique seasons that can bring different weather, there’s no real ‘bad’ time of year to travel with us!
Most of our trips provide a personal airport pickup. Before you travel you’ll receive detailed info on where to go to start your INTRO tour, including exclusive access to the INTRO Travel app.
You will also be personally contacted by your group leader and be connected with other group members before you depart to ensure the start of your trip is totally stress-free.
If you have any questions that aren’t covered in the INTRO app, or any other pre-departure info we provide, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help you.
How many people will be in my group?
Our groups average 12-16 people with a maximum group size of between 16-22 depending on the trip.
What happens if I’m travelling alone?
Our accommodation is a mix of twin, triple or multi-share depending on the trip, so we will put you in a room with someone of the same gender. Occasionally there are private room options for an extra charge.
Will I get by without knowing the local language?
In the majority of places we visit the locals speak English. We’ll also teach you some key words and phrases to help you get by, connect with locals, and have more fun!
There's also basic language translations along with other relevant country info on our INTRO Travel app.
A big part of the INTRO Travel difference is our after-trip support. Your group leader will spend enough time as needed to ensure you are totally comfortable and confident with where you’re going next. And can help organise and book whatever you need, including any transport, accommodation or trips you may want. We'll also provide 24/7 support and advice after your trip, and will always be there to help when you need it.
Please head to our terms & conditions page for our full T&C's & Privacy Policy.
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If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact us.
