How it works
How a Bucketlister trip works
The practical stuff — how a trip runs, what's handled, what to expect, and how to tell if it's for you.
The overview
A trip, in a nutshell
Small groups — usually eight to twelve people, most of whom come solo. From the moment you land, almost everything is handled, so you can be fully present. The one thing that isn't included: your international flights to get there.
What we handle
Stays, local guides, cultural access, in-country transport, most meals, and the experiences worth crossing the world for.
What you bring
Your international flights, an open mind, and a little willingness to say yes.
Step by step
Set off solo, come home with people
Most people book on their own. Here's how a trip goes — from the deposit that holds your spot to the group chat that keeps going long after you're home.
1 — Book your spot
Find the trip that's been on your list and reserve with a $500 deposit (non-refundable) — it holds your seat in the small group. Once you're confirmed, book your flights.
2 — Before you go
The balance is due 90 days before departure and can be split into a payment plan. You'll get a pre-trip pack (visas, weather, packing), a short survey (flight details, dietary needs, emergency contact), and a few days out we open the group chat — so you land already knowing a few faces.
3 — On the trip
Your host leads the whole way — running the plan and smoothing the inevitable hiccups — so all you have to do is show up and be there.
4 — After you're home
We'll ask what you honestly thought, and the group chat usually keeps going long after everyone's back.
What to expect
What it's actually like
No surprises — here's what these trips are, and what they're not.
And a few things you're signing up for
- ✓You'll arrange travel insurance that covers medical care, emergencies, and trip cancellation.
- ✓You're in good enough health for the activities — and you'll tell us anything we should know in advance.
- ✓You understand these trips carry the normal risks of adventurous travel, and you'll follow your host's safety guidance.
- ✓You'll respect local customs, beliefs, laws, and the places we visit.
- ✓Recreational drugs are a no — local laws can be strict, and it's not our scene.
Before you sign up
This trip is for you if…
- ✓You're up for a small group of mostly-solo travellers
- ✓You can roll with it when plans shift on the ground
- ✓You're curious about other cultures, not just the sights
- ✓You want real experiences more than a party
- ✓You're happy that some nights are simple and some are special
Sounds like you? We'd love to have you along.
Good to know
Questions, answered
What's included — and what isn't?+
From the moment you land: stays, local guides, in-country transport, most meals, and the experiences. Not included: your international flights to the destination, travel insurance, and a few optional extras noted on each trip.
When should I book my flights?+
Once your spot is confirmed. The longer you wait, the pricier they tend to get.
I'm travelling solo — will I know anyone?+
Most people come solo, so you'll be in good company from day one. By the group-chat stage you'll already recognise a few names.
Can I get my own room?+
Trips are priced on a twin-share basis; a private-room upgrade is sometimes available for an added cost. Ask before you book.
I have dietary needs — is that ok?+
Yes. Tell us in the pre-trip survey and we plan around vegetarian, vegan, and other requirements.
Is there a payment plan?+
Yes — a $500 deposit holds your spot, the balance is due 90 days before departure, and it can be split along the way.
Why do prices differ between trips?+
We aim to run the best trip, not the cheapest — so the price reflects the trip itself. A private-villa-and-Belmond trip costs more than a more pared-back one, and each trip's page breaks down what its price reflects.
What's your cancellation policy?+
Your $500 deposit is non-refundable. After that: cancel more than 90 days before departure and we retain 30% of the trip cost; 46–90 days, 50%; 15–45 days, 80%; within 14 days, no refund. Some prepaid costs (peak-season stays, charters, booked experiences) can't be refunded either. Travel insurance is required, so we always recommend a policy that covers cancellation. Full terms are in your booking agreement.
