Trip Preparation
Preparing for your Backroads trip? You've come to the right place! Here you'll find useful information on your destination, travel advice, reading lists and more.
Travel insurance may help protect you and your investment from unforeseen circumstances before and/or during your trip. These are most commonly related to injury, illness or an unexpected family emergency. In addition to being familiar with our cancellation policy, having coverage can make it easier to change your plans when things come up. We recommend that you purchase travel protection. Backroads offers the Arch RoamRight Travel Protection Plan or you can acquire one through your travel advisor.
For help arranging air transportation, pre- and post-trip hotels, rental cars or rail tickets in conjunction with your Backroads trip, we suggest you work with your own travel advisor, the airline or hotel directly or an online travel site.
If you don’t already have a travel advisor, you may also choose to work with our preferred travel agency. Their team of professional travel advisors are experienced insiders with knowledge and expertise of Backroads and our worldwide destinations. Please note that they are an independent travel agency and consulting and ticketing fees may apply, based on the services requested. Simply ask your Backroads Trip Consultant to connect you!
Online Resources:
- Google Maps: View maps and get driving directions. Pro tip: download routes in advance to use when WiFi connections aren't available.
- Mappy: A multimedia service across Europe offering route planning services, maps, tourist and other practical information.
- U.S. National Park Service: National park listings, entrance fees and maps.
- Weather Channel: Current and forecasted weather conditions for any U.S. city, state or major international destination.
The Travel Planner you will receive after reserving your Backroads vacation contains details about documentation required for your trip. International travel requires a valid passport and U.S. citizens may also need to obtain a visa for certain countries. If you do not have a passport and/or need a visa, contact the appropriate consulate. You should note that most countries require your passport to be valid for a specified amount of time beyond your departure date (up to 6 months)—be sure to check the expiration date.
The U.S. State Department Passport Services offers online passport application and renewal information for U.S. citizens.
If you need your visa or passport expedited, contact VisaCentral. Backroads guests receive exclusive savings! Just mention code 73013. Order online or call 866-788-1100.
Wherever your European journey takes you, Rail Europe can help you explore the real Europe by train, assisting you with rail passes, high-speed trains, reservations and more.
Call 888-382-RAIL for details or access fares and schedules online at www.raileurope.com.
Luggage Free's door-to-door luggage shipping service is easy, safe and guaranteed to arrive on time. You can breeze through the airport when you ship luggage to your Backroads destination where it will be awaiting your arrival. Luggage shipping provides total travel convenience. Visit www.luggagefree.com/backroads.