How will I know how to prepare for my trip?
In your acceptance packet, we have included everything you will need in order to get ready for your trip including: clothing and equipment list, travel information, medical forms, liability releases, etc. This is extremely helpful in staying organized before the summer. Of course, you can always call the Moondance office and we would be happy to assist you in any way.
What if I can’t find my acceptance package? Can I find this online?
Yes, we have a place on our web site called My Moondance where you can locate all forms and paperwork. Refer to your specific trip. If a username and password is required, and you have misplaced that information along with your paper, please feel free to call the Moondance office for the password.
Do you recommend certain equipment for the trip?
We have a detailed clothing and equipment list that we send out in our acceptance packet that lets you know what gear you will need for your trip. We have fine tuned this over the years and find it to be most helpful to parents and students when preparing for their trip. The most important items will be your backpack, sleeping bag, hiking boots, rain gear, and water bottles. If you have any questions about gear that is on the list, do not hesitate to call us.
What equipment is included in the tuition?
All the group gear such as Mountain Hardwear tents, cooking supplies, extensive first aid kits, etc. are included in the tuition.
What kind of equipment will I need?
For most of our trips, you will need a backpack, sleeping bag, rain gear and a comfortable pair of hiking boots. If you are buying a new pair of boots, make sure you have plenty of time to break them in before the summer! All the needed equipment is listed in your trip information packet, and we are here to help with any questions you might have.
Do you rent backpacks?
We sure do. Moondance has a large inventory of ArcTeryx and Deuter backpacks that students can rent. We have found that many are coming on a trip for the first time and rather than invest in an expensive backpack, they can rent one that will be awaiting them at the beginning of their trip. Our leaders have thorough knowledge of how to properly fit each backpack. For more information, visit our “Get Your Gear>Rentals” section of our website or contact the Moondance office.
Is there any equipment I can purchase from Moondance?
Moondance has a limited supply of Patagonia capilene shirts, Alternative cotton tees, sweat shirts, Crazy Creek chairs, Klean Kanteen water bottles, trucker hats all with our logo on them to purchase. You can also buy a barely used ArcTeryx backpack for a discounted price as well as brand new 33 Liter backpacks. Order forms will be included in your acceptance packet. You can visit our “Get Your Gear” section to access our Moondance online store or to rent our buy a new or used backpack for your trip.
Why small groups?
Being with a group of 10 to 13 other students allows everyone to get to know each other very well over the course of a trip. Plus, being in a small group allows you to do and see more, not to mention, you have the flexibility to alter the plans if you opt to go for a swim, take a sunrise hike, or play another new game.
Can I find out the other participants on my trip before it begins?
We think that the element of surprise of meeting everyone in the airport is one of the most exciting parts of your group, so we do not issue names of other participants in advance.
Do I need to be in shape for my trip?
To truly enjoy this trip, you need to understand that it is going to be physical. With that said, the more you prepare for this, the better your experience will be. If you are already involved in sports at school, we recommend you stay active as the summer gets underway. If you are preparing for the trip, we suggest you run, play tennis, swim, ride your bike, etc. for a minimum of one hour a day, five days a week beginning at least a month before your trip.
