Frequently Asked Questions
Safety and medical information
I am concerned about the political stability of the country through which my trip will travel.
The safety of our passengers, leaders, and operators is a major priority for Royal Derby. With this in mind, we monitor world events very closely and Royal Derby makes operational decisions based on informed advice from a number of sources, in particular the level of travel advisory. If this advisory is at Level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ then Royal Derby will either cancel the Royal Derby Travel operated trip or reroute the itinerary to avoid the areas concerned.
How safe are my belongings while on the trip?
While we take all the precautions we can to make sure your belongings are safe, we are traveling to some exciting destinations that are sometimes home to some pretty skilled thieves. Travel insurance is a must, and a lockable bag or money belt will always help too.
What is the best way to carry money?
We recommend having access to money from a variety of sources – cash, cards, and travel money cards are all commonly used. Check your Trip Notes and the relevant Destination Page on our website for more country-specific information.
Visa information
How do I find out about the visa requirements for the trip I am interested in?
While we do include information in our Trip Notes about visa requirements, we always recommend that passengers check with their local embassy as visa rules can change without warning. Embassy websites in your home country will always have information about requirements, visa costs and will provide the required forms. If you are uncomfortable with the visa process, you can visit a travel agent who can arrange these for you at a cost.
How do I organize my visa?
Please contact the relevant local embassy, or visit a travel agent, to organise your visa/s.
Do you help with Visas?
Royal Derby can’t assist in the actual application of visas, but you can do this through the embassy or with the support of a travel agent.
My application says I need a letter of invitation or other supporting documentation, do you provide these?
There are certain destinations where you will need support documentation from Royal Derby in order to apply for your visa. The ‘visa section’ of you Trip Notes will include information about what you need to send to us (scanned passports, employment letters etc.).
What should I bring?
What type of luggage do you recommend I take?
On most Intrepid trips you will be required to carry your own luggage, sometimes up stairs and on and off transport. We therefore recommend you travel with a backpack. For a full list of what to take on your adventure see our Ultimate Packing List.
Can I store excess luggage at the starting point hotel?
Most starting point hotels can store your excess luggage for you; however, this is at your own risk. Often a nominal fee is charged for this service. Of course, this is only an advantage if your trip is circular (i.e. returning to the same starting point).
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
We only have a handful of itineraries where sleeping bags are required and these are generally trips that involve camping. When we use homestays, blankets are provided but some travellers feel more comfortable with their own sleeping bag or sleep sheet. This decision is a personal preference. Refer to your Trip Notes if you are unsure whether a sleeping bag is required.