Do you love to travel? Are you keen to explore more of the world? Whether you have a few weeks free, are keen for a summer adventure or want to go backpacking after graduating, going on a tour can be one of the best experiences of yous life.
Lots of travel companies offer epic trip for young travellers aged 18-30 to destinations all around the world. From city hopping in Europe, island hopping in Thailand or Bali, going overland in Australia or New Zealand, seeing ancient ruins in Central and South America, road tripping the USA and Canada or getting close to exotic wildlife in Africa – there are so many trips and places you can go.
You can choose between lots of different types of tours, including small group adventures, overland trips, coach tours and sailing and island hopping trips.
Best Tour Companies for 18-30’s
If you are looking for your very first or next adventure these are some the most popular tour operators to book with.
Contiki
Contiki is a New Zealand-based tour company that caters to 18 to 35-year-olds, offering over 350 different tours in over 75 countries in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, North America, South America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It is a subsidiary of The Travel Corporation.
TruTravels
TruTravels creates life changing group travel experiences for 18 – Whatever year olds! Whether you’re a millennial, Gen Z-er or are just straight up young, you can find an epic trip for you. Popular destinations include Thailand, Bali, Philippines and Costa Rica.
G Adventures
G Adventures are the world’s greatest adventure travel company. They offer a wide selection of small-group tours, safaris and expeditions in 100+ worldwide destinations.
Topdeck Travel
Topdeck Travel is a tour operator providing trips for people aged 18 to 39 throughout Europe, North America, Africa, Egypt and the Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. Topdeck offers 330 different tours in 65 countries.
Stoke Travel
Stoke Travel are favourite choice for backpackers on a budget, the student with some study-abroad holidays to burn, the gap year gapper looking to do something outrageous, the solo traveller searching for travel buddies, soul mates, or just somebody to have a (lot of) laughs with, or the group looking to travel with an even bigger group of absolute legends.
Stoke Travel offer affordable tours and experiences at Europe’s wildest, most popular and craziest festivals and destinations with an authentic feel, a flexible schedule and options to suit your budget. The best fiestas are easily accessible with low cost, high fun trips. You could say travel parties and festivals around Europe are Stoke’s jam.
Why Book a Tour
Tours are perfect for solo travellers, friends and couples. You’ll get an experienced guide, accommodation, meals and some activities included.
On most tours you will travel in a group with around 8-16 from all around the world. These types of trips are a great way to discover new locations whilst having a lot of fun.
Tours are also perfect if you are worried about language barriers, safety or if just don’t want to travel alone.
Where to Go
There are hundreds of countries around the world, so where is best to go? Well, this really comes down to your personal preference, interests and budget.
If you are on a small backpackers budget then south east Asia is highly recommended. Here you can join lots of adventures, see beautiful islands, enjoy wild beach parties, see ancient temples and see animals like elephants and orang-utans. Popular countries include Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Philippines. Or if you are looking for a cultural destination without the party scene then consider places like Japan, Korea and China.
On a tour in Africa you can experience this magical continent, meet friendly people and go on a safari which really is one of the bucket list things you must do. Not much compares to seeing lions, elephants, rhinos and leopards in the wild. Top rated destinations include South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania but some travel companies offer epic overland trips which last months taking in multiple countries.
Europe is a continent to explore if you want to see world famous cities, countryside, beaches and islands. This region is very expeinsive to travel compared to Asia and Latin America but if you has a passion for art, history, culture and cities you will fall in love with countries like France, Spain, Germany, Austria Poland. Not to mention the beautiful coasts of Croatia, Italy and Greece. Countries in Eastern Europe like Hungary, Czech Republic, Bosnia and Albania also offer great value for money.
In North America you can get awestruck by the Rocky Mountains of Canada, or see iconic locations like Los Angeles and New York City. Road tripping Route 66′ and the stunning National Parks are also included on a lot of itineraries.
To experience different cultures and religions you might like to book a tour to the Middle East. Explore ancient ruins in Jordan, see biblical history in Israel, or experience super modern futuristic cities in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Oceania is a long way from everywhere, but it is home to some of the most spectacular locations on the planet. Some people book round the world trips and gap years in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. Highlights include the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney, Auckland, skiing, bungee jumping and islands hopping.
If you are interested in travelling after uni you might like to also view our tips for saving money to travel.