Arrive Healthy, Stay Healthy
We believe the Backroads style of travel is particularly well-suited to these unusual times. Thousands of guests have traveled with us since we got back out on the roads and trails in June 2020, and their positive feedback underscores how glad we are to be providing folks with the opportunity to be traveling again and actively exploring the great outdoors. We will continue to build on what we've already learned as the world continues to reopen, allowing us to responsibly operate trips in more and more regions across the globe.
*Our policies will evolve to consistently balance convenience with safety, please check back as your trip date approaches.
On-Trip Requirements & Safety Measures
Backroads recommends but no longer requires guests to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or to test via PCR or rapid antigen prior to joining a trip. Please note that many regions (especially international destinations) have requirements and/or documents needed for entry. See up-to-date details by destination on our Regional Entry Requirements page.
See here for CDC vaccine guidance.
See here for the testing site nearest you, or see here for more about at-home testing options.
What if someone has symptoms on trip? We have a robust internal protocol in place to safely address any COVID-19 related situations. If someone experiences symptoms on trip, they are asked to let the Trip Leaders know immediately. The Trip Leaders will ask the symptomatic person to isolate from the group and help facilitate a COVID-19 test. If the test is negative, no further action will be taken.
What if someone tests positive for COVID-19 on trip? Following our internal protocol and CDC guidance, if a member of the group tests positive, we will ask the individual to exit the trip and follow CDC isolation guidelines. We may also ask any travel partner(s) (if sharing a room) to exit the trip for the well-being of the greater group. Trip Leaders will help facilitate this as well as share next steps with the other members of the group who may have had close contact with the positive individual. Help protect your trip investment and learn more about Arch RoamRight Travel Insurance and the Backroads Flexible Cancellation Plan here.
Backroads strongly urges all eligible guests to be vaccinated. Regional requirements are constantly evolving, often with very little notice, so traveling unvaccinated is likely to cause trip disruption. Backroads will not offer reimbursement to those unable to join a trip or take part in certain activities due to not meeting requirements.
Staying Informed & Keeping You Up to Date
We’re always monitoring what’s happening in the world and how it impacts our trips. The COVID-19 crisis is no exception. We’ll communicate any pertinent information related to your departure by email so you’re always in the loop.
As Near Or Far As You Want To Be
Face Masks
Following CDC guidance, wearing masks is recommended but not required in Backroads vans and shuttles. Masks are optional for all other Backroads activities. Please carry a mask with you, as local regulations or vendors may require them in certain settings; these local requirements will supersede Backroads policy on our travels.
Social or on Your Own–Your Choice
Group activities, including cultural events, will be as optional as ever this season, with no pressure to join but with every precaution taken should you choose to partake. If you prefer not to attend our group route raps, not a problem—we’ll deliver the information to you personally. And our GPS units on biking trips and written directions on hikes give you the freedom to go at your own pace, whichever route you take. Similarly, the vast majority of our meals are included, and we'll work to ensure you have the flexibility to dine as you wish - together as a group or on your own. We'll avoid large tables as we build in more opportunities to taste the best the region has to offer and to socialize however you feel comfortable.
Backroads Terms and Conditions
See more information about the Backroads terms and booking policies here.