1. Don’t expect. Be surprised.
Most group press trips are comped by the sponsoring
organization/company. Some parts are not included. The writer is responsible paying: phone calls, gratuities, that razor you forgot, tampons, souvenirs, and any activities done on your own.
2. Don’t complain because champagne wasn’t waiting you when you arrived.
Not all companies have the budget to seduce writers with gifts. The airfare alone can bankrupt a CVB. I once encountered a writer who couldn’t believe therewasn’t a bottle of champagne in her room, comped of course.
3. Read your itinerary and do some research prior to the trip.
You will mostly likely know exactly what activities are planned before you arrive for a press trip. This can help you develop story angles or plan your extra time (if any).
4. Drink in moderation.
Sure, it’s your first press trip. You can’t believe that you were even included…and the drinks are “free”! Trust me; you’ll be paying for it the next morning at 7am when the group is ready to leave for a full day of tours and activities. Know your limits. You are representing a publication. Editors don’t want to hear about drunken escapades.
5. Bring 20 more business cards than you think you’ll need.
6. Pack some sealed snacks. (unless flying abroad)
You’ll have some long days. The schedule may state that lunch is at noon, but plan on lunch at 2pm. I always keep something in my pack because I like to eat all the time. Protein bars just don’t do it for me.
7. Adopt the motto, “To be early is to be on time. To be on time is to be late.”
Have respect for the other writers, and the person putting the trip together. This is not a vacation, it’s your job. Be on time and be organized.
8. Anticipate your own needs.
If you are prone to headaches when traveling, bring your own medication. If you get the sniffles, bring your own tissue and cold medication. If you have IBS, bring your own Imodium. These things are hard to find when you are out in the wild.
9. Pack necessities in your carry-on.
This wouldn’t be the first time an airline misplaced baggage. I always keep my toiletries, a swimsuit, and a change of clothing in my carry on, if checking a bag at all.
10. Invest in a disposable rain poncho.
These are available for around $1 at your local market. Buy a $1.50 first aid kit while you’re there, too.
11. Always pack a swimsuit, even when going to the cold places.
12. Don’t have an affair with a fellow traveler.
All the other writers will know, and word will get around. You wouldn’t believe what I and my fellow travel writers have heard.
13. Wear a cheap watch.
You never know when you may need to trade it for your freedom. The same goes for cheap canvas tennis shoes.
14. Don’t discuss previous trips you’ve been on in front of the coordinator of your current trip.
The world of travel writing is small. Coordinators may know who you are referring to or may feel slighted if
their budget doesn’t “wow” you like another trip. This is their moment. Let the current trip shine.
15. Don’t discuss politics or religion.
If you decide to discuss these things, refrain from being condescending. Remember, if you are in a foreign country; just don’t discuss these things at all.
16. Let the Trip Coordinator know any dietary concerns BEFORE the actual trip.
They will try and accommodate you, but this is not always possible. Be considerate. If you are a vegetarian and are served meat, just move it aside and say nothing for the moment. Don’t make a big fuss, just mention to the coordinator before the next meal. However, if allergies are involved, it is a different situation.
17. Watch your language.
18. Go over your itinerary.
If you see that hot air ballooning is on the schedule and you are afraid of heights, let the coordinator know
before leaving for your trip. He/she may be able to schedule another activity for you. Likewise, if you have trouble walking long distances, don’t sign up for an adventure press trip. It’s just not fair to the other attendees or yourself.
19. Write handwritten thank you notes to all of your hosts when you return.
If you aren’t into hand writing, send an email upon your return, at the very least.
20. Send copies of printed articles resulting from your press trip to the sponsor or host.