As soon as you're accepted for a trip, we will send you a Trip Information Packet which will include travel information, the itinerary for your trip, and a packing list to help you prepare for your adventure! Be sure to call us with any questions you may have while reading over your packet!

How will I know how to prepare for my trip?

Your Trip Information Packet will help you tremendously as you begin planning your travel and packing your duffel. We can give to the names of other students who have done your trip in years prior if you'd like to ask them any questions as well. Remember, we're always here too.

How will I know what to pack?

Most trips require the same basic clothing and use the same layering system so if you or a friend has done a trip in the past, you may have most of the clothing you'll need. Your packing list that you'll receive shortly after you're accepted will list everything you may want or need while on a Moondance trip -- from a fly rod to a camp chair, it's on the list!

Do I need to buy any special equipment to do a trip?

Most of the equipment you need for a trip you already have or can borrow from friends. A few essential items will be a backpack, a sturdy pair of boots, sleeping bag, ground pad, good rain gear, and personal clothing. A complete clothing and equipment list will be sent to you upon your acceptance. You can also find this list by going to each individual trip on our website. Moondance will supply all of the group equipment such as tents, stoves, cooking supplies, technical gear, etc...

How much spending money will I need?

You will want a small amount of money for incidentals such as souvenirs, gifts, showers, and personal ATM cards rather than cash.

Can I bring my camera?

Absolutely. A picture is worth a thousand words and we strongly encourage everyone to bring their camera. Though disposable cameras are great to have, many students will bring 35mm or digital cameras to get the best pictures possible of their trip. Every year we have students who have photos featured in our catalog. Leaders will have digital cameras and Moondance will create a photo CD of each trip ($20) for interested students.

Can I bring my Discman? Walkman? Cell phone?

You may bring a Discman or Walkman along on the trip to be listened to with headphones ONLY on the plane ride. Your Discman can be used in the van during travel days only if everyone can hear it. We don't want you to use their headphones during our courses simply because it removes you from the group. To listen to the rhythm of the river or immerse yourself in conversation with other group members is a big part of the whole experience. Moondance does not allow students to use a Discman or Walkman while in the backcountry. Likewise cell phones can only be used on opening and closing days to get in touch with parents. Under no circumstances will they be allowed during the trip. They will be taken up on opening day and returned once we get to the airport on closing day. Other electronic devices such as pagers, gameboys, etc. are not allowed and will be taken up at the start of the trip and returned when you leave. Moondance will not be held responsible for the loss or damage of your Discman, Walkman, cell phone or other electronic device.

Will I be able to do laundry on a trip?

Remember, this is a wilderness experience and most of our expeditions will be out for several days at a time, so we give up some of the creature comforts like a daily shower. That is the beauty of the backcountry experience, because everyone gets equally as dirty! Everyone soon forgets about this and enjoys the time together with their group. Of course, we take advantage of those dips in the lakes and streams to clean up. In between activities we take time to re-supply food, as well as shower and do laundry if facilities are available.

Is there travel insurance in case I have to cancel my trip?

Yes! To insure you against unforeseen emergencies, we strongly urge parents to secure their investment by purchasing an inexpensive tuition refund insurance policy. This reimburses you should you have to cancel due to unforeseen reasons. Please call our office for more details.

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