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Amazing Strangers + Days
We'll Never Forget + Destinations: Unknown

The Announcement

Typically, trips are announced a few months ahead of time and the announcement is shared across our socials and to our mailing list. Be sure to sign up on the mailing list when the pop up appears so you’ll get it directly in your inbox. Be on the look out and be prepared!

Signing Up

When you pay your trip deposit, you’ll also send us the information we need to get your ticket and the info to ensure you’re not one of those folks we don’t want on the trip (see below). This is when the anticipation kicks in and you start wondering where you’re headed. Patience, young grasshopper.

Begin The Adventure

Now it’s time to get to know the folks you’ll be experiencing these incredible moments with. In the group chat, you’ll meet your trip facilitator, fellow travelers, and learn more about one another as you get information about your flight and clues about your secret destination.

The Price

All trips include Flight + Lodging. Specialty trips will include so much more. Be sure to read the sign-up page to find out what additional things are included on your trip.

The Friendships

Many have stepped out of their comfort zones and come on Passport Required trips solo. Most have returned home with new friends and travel mates they’ll keep forever.

Life Depends On It

Your friends have canceled on too many trips, your year is speeding by, and your joy is disappearing. You’ve earned this trip and it’s beyond time you treat yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions (Must Read)

Q: How do I know you won’t take my money and run off?
A: You don’t. But I was raised properly, so I wouldn’t.

Q: Are we staying in hostels, hotels, AirBnB, basements, gas station parking lots, or what?
A: Yes.

Q: Can I fly from my home airport instead?
A: Of course you can! The price is generally far more than it’d cost you to get to the departure city, however. Once the deposit deadline comes, and we have an accurate number of people, ask for the difference.

Q: Are trips or deposits refundable?
A: Nope. No. Not At All. They Aren’t. So make sure you are able to go!

Q: Can you please provide me with more information about you and your credentials?
A: I could, but a question like that means you don’t need to go.

Q: What happens when a person’s attitude brings down the energy of the trip?
A: The rest of the group sneaks away quietly, leaving them wherever they are.

Q: How do I know you won’t cancel the entire trip at the last minute?
A: That’d never happen. Even if I am no longer able to go for some unforeseen reason, the trip is still on!

Q: Do you go on all the trips?
A: No. Sometimes I get my dope travel buddies to lead trips. Don’t worry, they’re just as amazing!

Q: Why are your trips so cheap? What’s the catch?
A: No catch. I just don’t believe in hustling my folks. Money isn’t important to me. Happiness is everything. Why not share that?

Q: What about luggage? How much am I allowed?
A: This is the hardest part for most people. Unless told otherwise, your luggage must not weigh more than 22lbs (10kg) and it must fit under your seat.

Q: How will I know what to pack?
A: In the GroupMe we create to communicate, you will be given all necessary information.

Q: How safe are we on these trips?
A: Are there travel sites that intentionally put you in danger? You’ll be fine. Come on.

Q: What type of people don’t do so well on your trips?
A: Those who let weather stop their adventure, those who are closed off to trying new foods, and those who buckle under unplanned mistakes. Oh! And those who have no respect for time.

Q. The signup page asked if I wanted travel insurance. How do I get it without knowing the destination?
A. Once you know the destination, you can get it.

Q. My job needs to know my destination in advance. Is that possible?
A. Yes. We’ve had many military and government employees and regular folks come who’ve had to give notice weeks prior to the trip. Simply let us know. If they need more than 5 day’s notice, let us know.

Q. What if I don’t like the destination?
A. We certainly wouldn’t want you in a place you hate because that could ruin the group energy. Don’t feel bad about leaving us behind and going to a place you’d like more.

Q. What’s the age limit for these trips?
A. 18 – 389. 390 Is too old for us.

Q. When do we find out where we’re going?
A. Just days before departure.

Q. When you say “hostel,” are you saying we’re staying in a room with other people? Men and women?
A. Exactly. Could be 1 other person. Could be 25 other people.

Q. What happens if I’m late to pay?
A. We have a 5 day grace period. After that, you will be charged a $100 late fee for each date missed.

Q. How many people will be on my trip?
A. No more than 8. No less than YOU!

Q. How long are travel times?
A. We ask that you keep your entire departure date and home arrival date clear. Depending on destinations, layovers and flights may be long.

Q. What happens if we get to the destination and decide to arrange different lodging.
A. If it’s because you’re closed-minded, then you’ll no longer be part of the group. Legitimate reasons are understandable.

Who We Don't Want | Who We Want

WE DON’T WANT PEOPLE WHO:
Are hoping for a luxury trip
Can’t roll with the punches
Allow rain to ruin their fun
Have control issues that prevent them from having fun
Folks we require itineraries
Find negativity in everything
Judge others before getting to know them
Aren’t able to leave their ego at home

*without exception, we will dismiss you from the group chat and / or trip to prevent a decline in the vibe*

WE WANT PEOPLE WHO:
Dance in the rain with their mouths open
Practice kindness daily

We Want You, You Amazing Coddiwompler

Things To Note & The Passphrase

Because too often, over the past few years, we still get folks who join us on these incredible journeys with expectations they shouldn’t have since everything is laid out throughout the site and often on the sign-up sheet. To reiterate:

You are leaving America. If you want American comforts, stay in America.

If you are choosey about the airline you use, this isn’t the trip for you.

Unless your lodging is unsafe, we will not change it.

All trips will not have a facilitator. For those that don’t, travelers will be well-equipped to have an incredible journey on their own – together.

You must let us know prior to signing up if your job requires you to know the destination within a certain time frame (and provide proof).

When things go wrong (lodging is flooded, you saw a bedbug, the car is too small, etc), as they sometimes will, Passport Required will do everything in our power to get back on track. If you cannot handle the time it takes for that to happen, this trip is not for you.

Passphrase To Enter On Sign-Up Page: I’ve Read This, And I Will Not Be The Problem.

Testimonials

“I remember growing up watching Road Rules on MTV and wishing I was old enough to travel how they did on the show. Well we’re obviously past that era of reality show adventure, but Passport Required has definitely taken over that niche of sending a group of strangers on an adventure into the unknown. Out of this experience Ive gained a whole new view of travel and actually possibly so new friends. Our group bonded so well that we already started planning a trip with all of us together in the coming months. Do I recommend this company? Absolutely. Will you have to be open-minded? Fortunately, yes! You have to experience this for yourself. Book the trip and get your LIFE!” – Clinton Deamer | Peru Trip

 

“From dancing in a field in Montreal to being stranded in the middle of a Colombian jungle with a broken down Uber, I’ve trusted Passport Required and Darnell Lamont Walker with my life, and honestly, even when in that jungle, these were some of the greatest moments in my life. Passport Required has opened me to the world of traveling, and since these trips, I’ve seen so much of the world. Would I recommend others to do it? Yeah, but only if you can handle spontaneity, good times, and the occasional unplanned, but hilarious mistake. Yeah. Go!” – Tiffany Malone | Colombia Trip

 

“Do you know how crazy it is to tell your family and friends you gave $650 to a man you don’t know to go to an unknown place to do unknown things? I didn’t say a word to them until I returned. Saying it to myself was hard enough. I regret nothing! Thank God. I can’t remember a time I lived as much as I lived with Passport Required. LIVED! And I’d do it again, and gladly tell my people ‘I have no idea where we’re going, but it’s cool.’ The one thing I hate about Passport Required is that it’s gotten me bit by that travel bug again, and that thing is worse than mosquitoes.” – Chanel Sartor | Colombia Trip

 

“This trip was about letting go of fears, embracing the unknowns, seeking and finding adventure, and making new friends. Thank you for the opportunity to join you and 5 others on the Sockless Summer trip. You have a gift for bringing people together, helping them step outside their comfort zone, and making it easy to trust the strangers that embarked on this adventure with you.” – Eugenia McDaniel | Curacao Trip

 

“Passport Required is so necessary! Our trip to Hong Kong was absolutely amazing and flawless. Well, except for almost leaving our passports in the hostel. But other than that, perfect! Thank you, Darnell! You’re dope!” – Naomi Doby | Hong Kong Trip

 

“They say the best experiences often arise from engaging in the unexpected. I’m so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and booked. It was scary at first all the unknown but well worth the risk. I visited places I would have never ventured to on my own & now have beautiful memories. I met some wonderful people, ate amazing food, & learned how to stop being a tourist and be a traveler. I will travel with Passport Required again.” – Melise Smith | European Backpacking Trip

 

“Our time in Peru was an experience to remember. The intimate group of five shared memorable stories, yelled across the table during a great debate and fellowshipped over delicious food. Our adventurous side came out in Huacachina, Peru as we screamed our way down the sand dunes. This is my second trip with PR and they only seem to be getting better. I highly encourage traveling with PR, you won’t regret it.” – Ashley Kelly

 

“Things don’t always go right or as expected. The trip was a reminder that if you commit to having a great time, step out of your box and embrace what’s in front of you, nothing can go wrong. We were a family, for better or worse, we had gone through some shit. Laughing, sharing meals, sharing one bathroom — making necessary bathroom rules. We got to know each other. We asked awkward questions and supported each other through it all; Throwing only as much shade as we knew a person could handle. That IS family. In San Salvador airport a call came out for passengers to give up their seats on our flight. Normally, not an option. But normal had shifted somewhere between sleeping on the ground and jumping off a bridge. Our group tried to take advantage of the upgrade – lounge access and a flight voucher. They only needed one. I learned a hard but valuable lesson, just like with the hawaiian rolls: if you want something and it’s being offered, take it – politely or not (preferably politely) don’t pass on the opportunities you want. That way when you’re writing your story you can talk all about the sweet taste of adventure, hawaiian rolls, and complimentary airline lounge drinks. Just like that beyond a pink pillar in the distance Darnell disappeared like a genie, wishes of travel and adventure being granted. In short, pay the man offering you the magic beans. It’s worth it! The money I sent to passportrequired was the best use of my dollars in 2017.” – Roger Grandison | Ecuador Trip

 

“After I signed up for my passport required trip, I sat for a minute and thought, oh no, what have I done. Could I really go out of the country for the first time, with a bunch of people I didn’t know, and only take a backpack?? Especially, not having a clue where we would end up. The answer is I absolutely could, and I did. My trip to the Bahamas was an absolutely amazing experience. I did things I probably would never have done, and made friendships that I hope will last forever. I can’t wait to sign up for my next trip, and go somewhere equally as awesome, with some cool people. I can’t stop telling people what a fantastic opportunity this is. Definitely NO regrets!!!!” – Allison Wagner | Bahamas Trip

How To Pack

When preparing for a Passport Required adventure, efficient packing is key. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the most of your 22 lbs. allowance and ensure your bag fits neatly beneath your seat (typical bag size: 15.75in x 7.87in x 9.84in):

1. Weight Limit: Remember, you have up to 22 lbs. (around 10 kg) to work with. Be mindful of this limit as you select what to bring along. We do this so it’s easier for you to move about the world.

2. Check Destination Temperatures: We’ll provide you with destination temperatures to assist in your packing decisions. This way, you’ll know if you need to pack for warm beaches or chilly mountaintops.

3. Pack Versatile Clothing: Opt for versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched. Neutral colors and layers are your friends. Consider the weather and activities at your destination.

4. Roll or Fold: Save space by rolling your clothes or using packing cubes to keep everything organized and compact.

5. Limit Footwear: Shoes can be heavy and take up space. Bring only the essentials, and consider wearing the bulkiest pair during your travels.

6. Toiletries and Essentials: Use travel-sized toiletries to save weight. Make a list of essentials and double-check it before you go.

7. Electronics and Chargers: Don’t forget chargers and adapters. Make sure they fit in your bag’s pockets or compartments.

8. Travel Documents: Keep your passport, tickets, and important documents in a secure, easily accessible pocket.

9. Space-Saving Bags: Consider compression bags for items like sweaters or jackets to maximize space.

10. Final Check: Before zipping up your bag, weigh it to ensure you’re within the 22 lbs. limit.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your Passport Required adventure, with a perfectly packed bag that fits beneath your seat. Safe travels!