Spontaneous travelers continue to push the envelope on what a vacation looks like, encouraging us to be more open-minded and free-spirited. A 2023 Booking.com survey found that 52% of travelers are open to booking a surprise trip where everything – including the destination—is a mystery until the day of.
This might sound heart-attack-inducing for those who associate travel with Pinterest boards, flight tracking, and other elaborate planning methods. However, these trips are gaining traction, especially with young professionals who don’t always have the time to plan an entire trip.
Learn more about the increasingly popular mystery vacations, and find out why more and more travelers are opting for these atypical experiences.
What is the Appeal of Surprise Vacations?
These trips challenge travelers to embrace the unknown and break out of the routine of everyday life. By surrendering control of your vacation, you learn to be present and enjoy the journey without prior expectations.
Surprise vacations are also great for those not enjoying the planning process. They can just show up and are handed their accommodations, activities, and everything. For example, newlyweds planning an entire wedding may opt for a surprise vacation as their honeymoon.
Another benefit is that travelers are matched with destinations they may have never considered. Domestic surprise trips are charming in a country like the United States, which is full of underrated quirky cities and gorgeous national parks. These trips are more affordable and less stressful, allowing travelers to discover new spots that check their boxes.
How do Surprise Vacations Work?
It may seem like a roll of the dice, but these vacations are planned by organizations that craft surprise itineraries. Depending on what travelers are looking for, these trips can be international, domestic, urban, or rural.
One extreme example is Black Tomato’s Get Lost service. They call this “the ultimate experience for helping people to disconnect, engage in the moment, and push themselves.” To sign up, travelers work with a team member to discuss how lost they hope to get and what kind of environment they prefer (jungle, forest, mountains, etc.). They’ll arrive at their destination with equipment and navigate their way through a series of mapped-out check-in points, all while being closely tracked by an experienced expedition team.
Travelers who want to dip their toes in a bit more gradually can also book with domestic organizations like Pack Up + Go. With this tour operator, you can share some of your travel restrictions, including your preferred accommodations and budget and your hobbies and interests. From there, you’ll get an envelope with your departure details before your trip.
As interest in surprise vacations increases, more tour operators offer unique approaches. These are available for solo travelers, couples, families, groups of friends, and anyone looking to mix up their trip.
What to Know Before Planning a Surprise Vacation
As with any travel booking, read the organization’s reviews and policies before committing to the trip. Some may expect travelers to pay for experiences or meals out of pocket, whereas others are all-inclusive. For example, Pack Up + Go only includes one guaranteed activity depending on prices, so travelers should expect to pay more than the initial booking fees.
Check what your budget includes, whether or not you need insurance, and if your booking company provides 24/7 assistance in case of any travel mishaps. If they are booking your flights and accommodation, it’s also important to double-check the information you give them, including your full name, date of birth, and passport number. Also, be sure to share any health or medical concerns.
Each company’s requirements will vary depending on whether you will be out in nature or exploring a new city. By following the instructions and trusting the process, you’ll be all set to jump off into the unknown.
