Student Safety on School Trips
School trips are immersive learning experiences for students. Traveling to new places and doing hands-on exploring helps contextualize lessons from the classroom and deepens student understanding. While students are busy making life-long memories, student safety on school trips must be a constant priority. Here are several important safety tips to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience for everyone on the trip.
1. Stay With the Group
First and foremost when considering student safety on school trips, always stick with your assigned group and follow the instructions of your Tour Director, chaperones or teachers. They will ensure that your trip is a safe, engaging experience.
2. Use the Buddy System
One of the safest practices on a school trip is having a buddy. Find a friend — or make a new one! — and look out for each other. Stay together at all times.
3. Keep Emergency Contact Information Handy
Carry a list of emergency contact numbers, including your parents or guardians, teachers and school administrators. Consider sharing your location with a trusted family member, guardian or friend.
4. Know the Meeting Points
Familiarize yourself with designated meeting points in case you get separated from the group. Know the name of the hotel or building where you are staying in the event you might need to ask for directions. Write them down on a piece of paper in case your phone battery runs low.
5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Though you might be in a new place or following a routine unlike the one you follow at home, make sure to drink water regularly and eat balanced meals to maintain your energy and health throughout the trip. Don’t skip breakfast, and pack a reusable water bottle and nonperishable healthy snacks. Check out some great tips for Eating Healthy on the Road.
6. Be Aware of Your Surroundings and Stay in Designated Areas
Pay attention to your environment. In new cities, be cautious when crossing streets and walk in areas designated for pedestrians. Avoid restricted areas or climbing unfamiliar structures. Leave your name tag in your pocket when walking in public areas.
7. Follow All Rules and Guidelines
Listen to your Tour Director and chaperones and follow all safety rules, whether they involve behavior, equipment or other guidelines specific to your trip. This will ensure everyone stays safe and ends up where they need to be.
8. Use Sunscreen and Stay Protected From the Elements
Especially if your trip involves outdoor activities, use sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays and wear appropriate clothing. Feeling sick or getting dangerously overheated or burned can prevent you from participating in the fun activities on your trip.
9. Stay Informed
Keep informed about the itinerary and any changes or updates provided by your Tour Director, teachers, chaperones or trip organizers.
Music Travel Consultants makes staying in the know easy with the Trip Account App, which provides one convenient place to access the trip itinerary, rooming and travel details, group messaging, emergency notifications and more.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. With vigilance and cooperation from students, chaperones and trip organizers, school trips are an immensely positive experience with lasting educational value.
