Travel With Purpose. Inclusion Without Limits. Friendship without Borders.
Best Buddies Travel is an inclusive, staff-led program that brings people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) together to explore the world, while building independence, confidence, and lifelong friendships.
More than a trip, it’s a program.
Every experience includes life skills and travel training, guided support, and meaningful connection before, during, and after each journey.
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What Is Best Buddies Travel?
Best Buddies Travel combines inclusive travel experiences with structured preparation and real-world skill-building. Participants engage in life skills and travel-readiness training prior to departure, receive ongoing staff support while traveling, and reflect on their experience afterward, ensuring growth that lasts well beyond the trip itself.
Trips are intentionally designed for small groups and include participants with and without IDD, creating a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone belongs.
Who Can Participate
Best Buddies Travel is open to individuals with and without IDD who are interested in inclusive travel and personal growth. Participants apply through a structured registration process to help ensure readiness, safety, and a positive group experience.
Upcoming TripsLife Skills & Travel Training
Before and throughout each trip, participants build confidence and independence through guided training in:
- Travel readiness and airport navigation
- Packing, planning, and organization
- Budgeting and money management
- Communication and self-advocacy
- Decision-making and problem-solving
- Navigating new environments and routines
- Independent hygiene and personal care skills, such as maintaining daily routines, managing personal belongings, and preparing for shared travel environments
These skills are practiced in real time, with support from trained Best Buddies staff.
The Travel Experience
Each Best Buddies Travel experience is thoughtfully planned to balance adventure, connection, and support. Trips include:
- Accessible destinations and accommodations
- Structured group activities and shared experiences
- Built-in downtime and flexibility
- Small group sizes to foster connection
- Ongoing staff guidance and support
From domestic destinations to international opportunities, every trip is designed to be engaging, empowering, and fun.
Safety & Support
Participant safety and well-being are our top priorities. Every trip includes:
- Trained Best Buddies staff leadership
- Pre-trip preparation and clear expectations
- Emergency preparedness planning
- Accessibility and support assessments
- Medical and safety protocols
- Travel Insurance
Our team is committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where participants can explore with confidence.
Upcoming Trips
New York City
October 1 – October 5, 2026
4 Nights / 5 Days
Sightseeing plus the Best Buddies Challenge: New York
Ages 21+
Cost: $2,500
Does not include travel to New York, NY
See Trip Details
Experience the energy, culture, and iconic landmarks of New York City. Travelers will also have the chance to take part in the Best Buddies Challenge: New York, a signature event that unites thousands of participants in support of inclusion while showcasing the excitement and spirit of the city.
Trip Itinerary:
- Thursday – Arrival to New York, NY and Midtown Experience
- Friday – Downtown Exploration
- Saturday – Uptown Enjoyment and the Best Buddies Challenge: New York
- Sunday – Brooklyn Visit
- Monday – Depart New York, NY for Home
What’s Included:
- Bed in shared room at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel New York – Times Square West
- Specialized BB Travel merch
- Three meals per day, beginning with dinner on Thursday through breakfast on Monday
- All scheduled activities with the group including a view of the Statue of Liberty, Broadway show, museum and botanic garden visits, and more
- Transportation within the city to all scheduled activities and meals
- Flexible events and down time
- Support of Best Buddies Staff 24/7
- Travel insurance
- Programming prior to trip including: travel readiness, packing, planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with other travelers
Dublin, Ireland
September 13-19, 2026
6 Nights / 7 Days
Sightseeing
Ages 21+
Cost: $4,500
Includes travel from New York to Dublin, does not include travel to New York
See Trip Details
Experience the beauty, history, and culture of Ireland on this unforgettable 6-night Best Buddies Travel adventure. From the lively streets of Dublin to the scenic landscapes of County Kerry and the iconic Cliffs of Moher, travelers will enjoy immersive cultural experiences, accessible sightseeing, local cuisine, music, and meaningful connection with peers while exploring some of Ireland’s most famous destinations.
Trip Itinerary:
- Sunday – Overnight flight from New York to Dublin
- Monday – Arrive in Dublin with visits to Trinity College Dublin, a vintage afternoon tea bus tour, and a welcome dinner with live Irish music and dance at Johnnie Fox’s Pub
- Tuesday – Explore the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Powerscourt Waterfall, and a traditional Irish sheepdog demonstration before dinner and an evening in Temple Bar
- Wednesday – Discover Dublin’s history at Kilmainham Gaol, enjoy Irish music and dance experiences, tour the Guinness Storehouse, and experience Dublin nightlife
- Thursday – Visit Howth Harbour for coastal views, shopping, an optional cliff walk, and a scenic River Liffey cruise before a relaxing final evening in Dublin
- Friday – Full-day excursion to Cliffs of Moher and Galway featuring dramatic coastal scenery, the Burren region, Irish villages, and a final celebration dinner
- Saturday – Departure day and return flight home
What’s Included:
- Roundtrip flights from New York to Dublin
- Accommodations at Trinity City Hotel
- Three meals per day
- All group activities, tours, and excursions included
- Exclusive Best Buddies Travel merchandise
- Travel Insurance
- Private and public group transportation throughout Ireland
- 24/7 support from Best Buddies staff throughout the trip
- Pre-trip programming focused on travel readiness, packing, planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with fellow travelers
Disney World
February 11 – 15, 2027
4 Nights / 5 Days
Ages 18+
Cost: $3,000
Does not include travel to Orlando, FL
See Trip Details
Experience the magic of Walt Disney World on an unforgettable adventure filled with fun, friendship, and lasting memories. Spend three exciting days exploring the parks, enjoying world-class attractions, entertainment, and unforgettable moments alongside fellow travelers. This trip combines the excitement of Disney with the joy of community, creating a vacation you’ll never forget.
Trip Itinerary:
- Thursday – Arrival to Orlando, FL and Meet Fellow Travelers
- Friday – Park Visit
- Saturday – Park Visit
- Sunday – Park Visit
- Monday – Depart Orlando, FL for Home
What’s Included:
- Bed in shared hotel room in an All-Star Disney Resort
- Specialized BB Travel merch
- Three meals per day, beginning with dinner on Thursday through breakfast on Monday
- Resort-refillable mug
- 3 days of park admission
- Support of Best Buddies Staff 24/7
- Travel insurance
- Programming prior to trip including: travel readiness, packing, planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with other travelers
Additional Support & ServicesTo help make Best Buddies Travel accessible to as many participants as possible, optional support services and trip enhancements may be available for an additional fee. These may include airport transfers, one-to-one planning calls, and other individualized supports based on traveler needs. Our Best Buddies Travel team is here to help you explore available support packages and find the best fit for your travel experience.
Miami & Royal Caribbean Bahamas Cruise
March 7 – 12, 2027
5 Nights / 6 Days
Ages 21+
Cost: $2,600
Does not include travel to Miami, FL
See Trip Details
Set sail on an unforgettable Caribbean adventure with stops in Nassau, Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay. This trip combines relaxation, adventure, and community while enjoying one of the world’s most exciting cruise ships.
Trip Itinerary:
- Sunday – Arrival to Miami, FL and Group Bonding
- Monday – Depart Miami, FL on the Wonder of the Seas
- Tuesday – Perfect Day Cococay, Bahamas
- Wednesday – Nassau, Bahamas
- Thursday – Cruising
- Friday – Dock in Miami, FL and Depart for Home
What’s Included:
- Bed in shared standard hotel room in Miami on Sunday evening
- Group dinner on Sunday evening in Miami
- Bed in shared room while onboard the Wonder of the Seas
- All meals while onboard the Wonder of the Seas
- Standard, non-alcoholic Royal Caribbean beverage package
- Wifi while onboard the Wonder of the Seas
- Specialized BB Travel merch
- Planned activities with group
- Flexible events and down time
- Support of Best Buddies Staff 24/7
- Programming prior to trip including: travel readiness, packing, planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with other travelers
Travel insurance
Additional Support & ServicesTo help make Best Buddies Travel accessible to as many participants as possible, optional support services and trip enhancements may be available for an additional fee. These may include airport transfers, one-to-one planning calls, and other individualized supports based on traveler needs. Our Best Buddies Travel team is here to help you explore available support packages and find the best fit for your travel experience.
Washington, D.C.
April 22 – 26, 2027
4 Nights / 5 Days
Ages 21+
Cost: $2,800
Does not include travel to Washington, D.C.
See Trip Details
Explore the history, culture, and excitement of Washington, D.C. with unforgettable experiences, from iconic monuments and museums to exciting entertainment and local attractions. This trip combines sightseeing, fun, and friendship for a memorable adventure in the nation’s capital.
Trip Itinerary:
- Thursday – Arrive in Washington, D.C. and Meet Fellow Travelers
- Friday – Iconic Washington, D.C. Experiences
- Saturday – Explore the Nation’s Capital
- Sunday – D.C. Entertainment and Attractions
- Monday – Depart Washington, D.C. for Home
What’s Included:
- Bed in a shared room at a hotel in Downtown D.C.
- Specialized Best Buddies Travel merchandise
- Three meals per day, beginning with dinner on Thursday through breakfast on Monday
- All scheduled group activities, which may include visits to iconic monuments and memorials, guided tours, entertainment, sporting events, and more
- Transportation within Washington, D.C. to all scheduled activities and meals
- Flexible activities and free time
- 24/7 support from Best Buddies staff
- Travel insurance
- Pre-trip programming covering travel readiness, packing, trip planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with fellow travelers
Additional Support & Services To help make Best Buddies Travel accessible to as many participants as possible, optional support services and trip enhancements may be available for an additional fee. These may include airport transfers, one-to-one planning calls, and other individualized supports based on traveler needs. Our Best Buddies Travel team is here to help you explore available support packages and find the best fit for your travel experience.
Boston and Hyannis Port
June 10 – 14, 2027
4 Nights / 5 Days
Ages 21+
Cost: $2,800
Does not include travel to Boston, MA
See Trip Details
Participants will experience the charm and history of Boston before traveling to beautiful Hyannis Port on Cape Cod. During this trip, travelers will also have the unique opportunity to be part of the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, an inspiring event that brings together supporters from across the country for a weekend of inclusion, community, and celebration.
Trip Itinerary:
- Thursday – Arrival to Boston, MA and Group Bonding
- Friday – Boston Adventure Experiences
- Saturday – Hyannis Port Day Trip
- Sunday – Boston Historical and Cultural Experiences
- Monday – Depart Boston, MA for Home
What’s Included:
- Bed in shared room at the Omni Parker House Hotel
- Specialized BB Travel merch
- Three meals per day, beginning with dinner on Thursday through breakfast on Monday
- All scheduled activities with the group (TBA)
- Transportation to and from Hyannis Port
- VIP access to Best Buddies Challenge events, including a concert and lobster bake
- Flexible events and down time
- Support of Best Buddies Staff 24/7
- Travel insurance
- Programming prior to trip including: travel readiness, packing, planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with other travelers
Miami & Royal Caribbean Bahamas Youth Cruise
June 20 – 25, 2027
5 Nights / 6 Days
Ages 16-22
Cost: $2,800
Does not include travel to Miami, FL
See Trip Details
Embark on an unforgettable Caribbean adventure for young adults ages 16–22, featuring stops in Nassau, Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Enjoy exciting adventures, meaningful friendships, and unforgettable experiences aboard one of the world’s most exciting cruise ships.
Trip Itinerary:
- Sunday – Arrival to Miami, FL and Group Bonding
- Monday – Depart Miami, FL on the Wonder of the Seas
- Tuesday – Perfect Day Cococay, Bahamas
- Wednesday – Nassau, Bahamas
- Thursday – Cruising
- Friday – Dock in Miami, FL and Depart for Home
What’s Included:
- Bed in shared standard hotel room in Miami on Sunday evening
- Group dinner on Sunday evening in Miami
- Bed in shared room while onboard the Wonder of the Seas
- All meals while onboard the Wonder of the Seas
- Standard, non-alcoholic Royal Caribbean beverage package
- Wifi while onboard the Wonder of the Seas
- Specialized BB Travel merch
- Planned activities with group
- Flexible events and down time
- Support of Best Buddies Staff 24/7
- Programming prior to trip including: travel readiness, packing, planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with other travelers
- Travel insurance
Additional Support & ServicesTo help make Best Buddies Travel accessible to as many participants as possible, optional support services and trip enhancements may be available for an additional fee. These may include airport transfers, one-to-one planning calls, and other individualized supports based on traveler needs. Our Best Buddies Travel team is here to help you explore available support packages and find the best fit for your travel experience.
Utah Outdoor Adventure
August 5 – 9, 2027
4 Nights / 5 Days
Ages 16-22
Cost: $2,800
Does not include travel to Park City, UT
See Trip Details
Adventure awaits in Park City, Utah on this unforgettable trip for participants ages 16–22 at the National Ability Center. From mountain biking and water sports to equine experiences, campfire s’mores, and exploring downtown Park City, this getaway is filled with fun, friendship, and new adventures.
Trip Itinerary:
- Thursday – Arrive in Park City, UT and Meet Fellow Travelers
- Friday – Outdoor Adventures at the National Ability Center
- Saturday – Challenge Course and Park City Exploration
- Sunday – Water Sports and Lake Day
- Monday – Depart Park City, UT for Home
What’s Included:
- Bed in a shared room at the National Ability Center
- Specialized Best Buddies Travel merchandise
- Three meals per day, beginning with dinner on Thursday through breakfast on Monday
- All scheduled group activities, including archery, equine assisted learning, water sports, mountain biking, challenge courses, and much more
- Transportation within Park City, UT to all scheduled activities and meals
- Airport transfers to and from Park City and the National Ability Center
- Flexible activities and free time
- 24/7 support from Best Buddies staff
- Travel insurance
- Pre-trip programming covering travel readiness, packing, trip planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with fellow travelers
Additional Support & ServicesTo help make Best Buddies Travel accessible to as many participants as possible, optional support services and trip enhancements may be available for an additional fee. These may include airport transfers, one-to-one planning calls, and other individualized supports based on traveler needs. Our Best Buddies Travel team is here to help you explore available support packages and find the best fit for your travel experience.
Royal Caribbean Cruise to Europe
September 11 – 19, 2027
8 Nights / 9 Days
Ages 21+
Cost: $5,000
Includes travel between New York and Rome, does not include travel between home city and New York
See Trip Details
Dive headfirst into adventure on a 7-night cruise to Europe. Depart from Rome, Italy on Odyssey of the Seas on your epic journey through unforgettable landscapes and world-renowned cities. Gaze in awe and wonder at wow-worthy architecture and natural beauty as you travel throughout the region.
Trip Itinerary:
- Saturday - Depart New York, NY for Rome, Italy
- Sunday – Depart Rome, Italy on the Odyssey of the Seas
- Monday – Cruising at Sea
- Tuesday – Santorini, Greece
- Wednesday – Ephesus, Turkey
- Thursday – Mykonos, Greece
- Friday – Cruising at Sea
- Saturday – Naples / Capri, Italy
- Sunday – Dock in Rome, Italy and Return to New York, NY
What’s Included:
- Bed in shared standard hotel room in Rome before the cruise departs
- Bed in shared room while onboard the Odyssey of the Seas
- All meals while onboard the ship
- Standard, non-alcoholic Royal Caribbean beverage package
- Wifi while onboard the Odyssey of the Seas
- Specialized BB Travel merch
- Planned activities and excursions with group
- Flexible events and down time
- Support of Best Buddies Staff 24/7
- Programming prior to trip including: travel readiness, packing, planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with other travelers
- Travel insurance
Additional Support & ServicesTo help make Best Buddies Travel accessible to as many participants as possible, optional support services and trip enhancements may be available for an additional fee. These may include airport transfers, one-to-one planning calls, and other individualized supports based on traveler needs. Our Best Buddies Travel team is here to help you explore available support packages and find the best fit for your travel experience.
New York City
September 30 – October 4, 2027
4 Nights / 5 Days
Ages 21+
Cost: $2,800
Does not include travel to New York, NY
See Trip Details
Participants will experience the energy, culture, and iconic landmarks of New York City. Travelers will also have the chance to take part in the Best Buddies Challenge: New York, a signature event that unites thousands of participants in support of inclusion while showcasing the excitement and spirit of the city.
Trip Itinerary:
- Thursday – Arrival to New York, NY and Midtown Experience
- Friday – Downtown Exploration
- Saturday – Uptown Enjoyment and the Best Buddies Challenge: New York
- Sunday – Brooklyn Visit
- Monday – Depart New York, NY for Home
What’s Included:
- Bed in shared room at a hotel located in Times Square
- Specialized BB Travel merch
- Three meals per day, beginning with dinner on Thursday through breakfast on Monday
- All scheduled activities with the group including a view of the Statue of Liberty, Broadway show, museum visits, and more
- VIP access to Best Buddies Challenge events, including a concert and banquet
- Transportation within the city to all scheduled activities and meals
- Flexible events and down time
- Support of Best Buddies Staff 24/7
- Travel insurance
- Programming prior to trip including: travel readiness, packing, planning, navigating new environments, managing personal belongings and daily routines, and building community with other travelers
News & Stories
Best Buddies Travel launched its inaugural Youth Cruise, promoting friendship, independence, and inclusion.
A new program designed to create inclusive, supported travel experiences that bring people together, build confidence, and create lifelong friendships through shared travel opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question not answered below, contact us at Travel@bestbuddies.org.
Who can participate?
Best Buddies Travel is open to individuals with and without IDD who are interested in traveling in an inclusive group environment. Participants must be currently enrolled in an active Best Buddies program, or alumni of a Best Buddies program and willing to undergo a background check.
All participants complete a registration and screening process to ensure the trip is a good fit.
Is there an age requirement?
Most Best Buddies Travel experiences are designed for participants ages 18 and older, though some trips may have specific age guidelines depending on the destination or activities.
What does the cost of the trip include?
Trip costs generally include:
- Accommodations
- Group dinners and select activities
- Staff support throughout the trip
- Pre-trip virtual training sessions
- Program materials and travel preparation
- Expert trip planning and coordination by Best Buddies, so travelers can enjoy a well-organized experience without the stress of planning the details themselves.
Transportation to the departure city/destination is typically not included unless otherwise noted.
Do you offer scholarships?
Unfortunately, at this time scholarships are unavailable; however, we do offer fundraising and other payment plans upon request.
Can participants fundraise for their trip?
Yes! Participants are welcome to fundraise to help offset the cost of their trip. Best Buddies can provide tools and guidance for:
- Personal fundraising pages – bestbuddies.org/fundraise
- Community fundraising events
- Support from friends and family
- Social media campaigns
Fundraising is a great way to involve your community while preparing for the experience.
What preparation happens before the trip?
Participants take part in six weeks of virtual programming focused on travel readiness and life skills, including:
- Aiport and travel navigation
- Budgeting and money management
- Packing and travel preparation
- Personal hygiene and daily routines while traveling
- Safety and communication
- Building friendships and group travel expectations
These sessions help participants feel confident and prepared before departure.
What skills will participants gain?
Best Buddies Travel is designed to help participants develop independence, confidence, and real-world life skills. Through both the training sessions and travel experience, participants practice:
- Communication and social skills
- Decision-making and problem solving
- Budgeting and money management
- Personal responsibility and independence
- Travel navigation and planning
- Confidence in new environments
- These experiences help participants grow personally while building meaningful relationships with others.
For those without IDD, traveling with people of all abilities provides a powerful opportunity to expand perspectives, challenge assumptions, and experience inclusion in action.
What kind of support is provided during the trip?
All trips are staff-led and designed to balance independence with support. Best Buddies staff travel with the group and provide guidance, coordination, and safety oversight throughout the experience. Best Buddies does not provide any of the following: 1) hands-on personal care (e.g. bathing, toileting, dressing, etc), 2) hands-on medical care (e.g. injections, blood testing, blood pressure monitoring, application of topicals, etc), 3) 24-hour line-of-sight supervision.
Can someone travel with a friend, buddy, or caregiver?
Yes. Participants are welcome to travel with a friend, buddy, or chapter member. In some cases, caregivers may also attend depending on individual support needs. Please note that any additional travelers are responsible for registering and covering the cost of their own trip.
Are all activities required?
No. While we host group dinners and select shared experiences, many activities are optional so participants can choose what interests them most.
How are roommates assigned?
Participants may request to room with a friend or buddy. If no preference is indicated, Best Buddies staff will assign roommates thoughtfully based on compatibility and participant needs.
What is the refund policy?
Refund policies vary by trip and depend on booking timelines and vendor requirements. Detailed cancellation and refund information will be shared during the registration process.
How can I support the Best Buddies Travel program?
Supporters can help expand access to inclusive travel by sponsoring participant scholarships, donating to the Travel program, or supporting fundraising efforts.
Why it Matters
Travel builds confidence, independence, and connection. Best Buddies Travel creates opportunities for people with and without IDD to grow together, develop life skills, and experience the world in an inclusive, meaningful way.
Join the Journey
The Best Buddies Travel Program launches with a pilot in 2026, featuring domestic and international trips.
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