Below are answers to some of the most Frequently Asked Questions we get every year. You can find FAQ about each specific expedition on the trip itinerary pages.

Choosing a Program
Q: There are a lot of programs here. How do I choose the program that is most appropriate for me?
A: Our programs are divided into 3 classifications: Adventure, Leadership, and Global. Check out our Trips Info page for more information on each type of trip.

Q: What kind of kid signs up for an expedition with Longacre?
A: In general, kids who enjoy the Longacre Experience are enthusiastic about the activities and the outdoors. Many have never engaged in adventure travel before but the idea sounds great to them. They are intrigued about testing themselves in a physically challenging environment. They like the idea of becoming part of a tightly knit group in which kids deal with each other in a caring manner.

General Trip Information
Q: Can I sign up for two expeditions in one summer?
A: You bet. There are several opportunities. Give us a ring. We'll be happy to hear any ideas you may want to bounce off us.

Q: When do your programs start to fill up?
A: Each year we have programs that are closed before December 31. Because our group size is limited (10 to 16 kids per trip) and since we try to bring some balance to the boy/girl ratio, there could only be 5 spaces for a boy on a 10-person trip. To have the best shot at getting on of those spaces, you will want to act quickly and reserve your spot.

Q: Can I come with a friend?
A: The answer is yes, but there is one thing to remember about the Longacre Experience. This is a group activity. That means that we expect you and your buddy to put as much energy into the other kids on the trip as you do into each other. Sometimes old friends who cling to each other early on in the trip end up losing out on valuable getting-to-know-you time. By the time they feel comfortable enough to branch out, they have to play catch-up and the time to do so is limited.

Q: How long has Longacre been running trips for teens?
A: We have been offering wilderness-based adventure travel experiences for teenagers since 1981.

Q: Do I need to have experience to join Longacre?
A: A good attitude is essential. The kids who join us want to be with us and want to give each activity their best shot. Participants on programs that snowboard and ski should be comfortable going down intermediate slopes. If biking is a part of a program you are interested in, you should know how to ride a bike. Students who join us for Costa Rica should have completed Spanish II.

Q: Do I have to be in super shape to do these expeditions?
A: Longacre Expeditions is a physical experience. The better shape you come in, the more time you are going to spend enjoying the experience rather than worrying about getting to the top of the next hill. If you play sports, the chances are you will be fine. If, however, you get little exercise outside of gym class, we recommend a springtime exercise program that will at least get you into good enough shape to lessen your worries.

Q: What is the standard boy/girl ratio for your trips?
A: Although we try to balance the boy/girl ratio evenly on all of our trips, it is not always possible. Some trips have a majority of girls while others have a majority of boys. We can never predict exactly which way the trips will work out. However, we do maintain a minimum number of three or four of either sex on a given trip.

Food & Gear
Q: What kind of food will I eat?
A: Our motto at Longacre is food is love. We take pride in the quality, quantity, and variety of food we prepare during the summer. One of the things that we do well is to meet kids' special dietary needs. Part of our springtime packet requires the completion of a Camper Information sheet, which includes a section on likes/dislikes. Your leaders will use this information when designing the trip menu.

Q: Are there any extra expenses beyond the tuition?
A: Yes, families should be prepared to incur some other expenses associated with an expedition with Longacre. Upon receipt of the enrollment agreement, we send a list of required clothing and equipment for that specific trip. It is the responsibility of each family to make sure that the participant comes properly equipped with appropriate gear, including such items as hiking boots, sleeping bag and pad, and rain suit. Tuition does not include the cost of transportation to and from the course area. We recommend that kids come with a limited amount of spending money. $25 per week is standard. Feel free to contact us if you have more questions about what is and is not covered.

Q: What gear and equipment will I need?
A: To find out what you need for a specific expedition, check out the Clothing and Equipment List for the trip you are interested in on each trip page.

Q: Do you sell any of the stuff that I will need for my expedition?
A: There are many manufacturers of outdoor gear, and the salespeople at most reputable outdoor stores are knowledgeable about their equipment. For the convenience of our participants and their families, we sell a large variety of quality gear from the Longacre Store. There is no such thing as bad weather...only bad gear.