Travel Planning & Exploration
Learn how to plan trips, from weekend adventures to dream vacations. This pathway teaches you research skills, budgeting, itinerary planning, and how to explore new places safely and meaningfully. Whether you’re planning a local day trip or dreaming of international travel, these skills will help you become a confident explorer.
Building your Award:
Find Bronze Award examples to support activity planning
Example SMART Goal: I want to plan an actual trip my family could take! For 13 weeks, I’ll spend an hour each week researching destinations, comparing prices, and creating a detailed itinerary with a realistic budget.
Example Assessor: Teacher, school travel club advisor, or community program coordinator
Example Log: Used Google Flights to compare prices for different dates – learned that flying on Tuesdays is usually cheaper! Also started a spreadsheet to track costs. Looking into accommodation options next.
Example SMART Goal: Cycling is a great way to explore! For 13 weeks, I’ll ride my bike for at least an hour each week, gradually increasing my distance. My goal is to comfortably complete a 15 km route by the end.
Example Assessor: Gym teacher, cycling club leader, or recreation center staff
Example Log: Rode 8 km today on a new trail I’d never tried before. Found a really cool lookout point! Legs felt good, definitely getting stronger.
Example SMART Goal: Airports can be confusing for travelers! I’m volunteering an hour each week at the local transit hub or visitor center, helping tourists and travelers with directions and information.
Example Assessor: Transit authority supervisor, visitor center coordinator, or volunteer manager
Example Log: Helped a family from another country find their connecting bus today. They were so relieved when I showed them the route on a map! Getting better at explaining directions clearly.
(Completed as a team. Participants will work together to plan and complete their journey.)
Example Activity: Local Explorer Challenge! Plan and execute a trip to discover hidden gems in your own community. Research interesting spots you’ve never visited, create an itinerary, budget for any costs, and document your adventure.
Example Team Goal: Our team will discover at least 5 places we’ve never been, stay within a $20 per person budget, document everything with photos and notes, and create a “local travel guide” for other youth.
Example Assessor/Supervisor: Teacher, Award Leader, or recreation program coordinator
