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There aren’t many times in your life when you have an opportunity to take a couple weeks break to explore the world at your leisure. With no more school to stress about and some time before you enter the workforce, taking a graduation trip is simply a right of passage. Whether you just finished high school, college, or a postgraduate degree we think you deserve to swap your diploma for a boarding pass! With the whole world to explore the options can be dauntless, and there are a lot of things to factor such as budget, who you are traveling with, and getting inspiration for grad trip ideas. Dreaming of lounging by the beach? Exploring historical cities? Camping through national parks? Don’t worry, we’ve compiled a list of graduation trips catered to all kinds of travelers.
8 Graduation Trips for Every Kind of Traveler
- US National Park Tour
- Eastern Europe Backpacking Trip
- Explore the UK
- Road Trip through Italy
- Solo Travel in the US
- Discover Portugal
- South African Adventure
- Coast to Coast in the US
National Park Tour
If the idea of jetting off on an international flight to a far off destination for your graduation trip doesn’t quite appeal to you, then we suggest lacing on your hiking boots and trekking through some of America’s most beautiful national parks. With 63 national parks to choose from spread across 50 different states, there’s adventure waiting just for you. If you are looking for a mountainous trek head to Rocky Mountain State Park in Colorado. For out of this world rock formations consider hitting the “Mighty five” in Utah. Hit the open road, rent a car, and uncover the hidden gems of the U.S. landscape. While iconic parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite draw millions, consider veering off the beaten path for a graduation trip filled with serene moments amidst lesser-known national parks.
Eastern European Backpacking Trip
Embarking on a backpacking adventure across Europe has become somewhat of a rite of passage for many recent college graduates, offering a chance to explore the world before diving into the workforce. However, with the popularity of certain European cities soaring, along with their temperatures, the summer crowds in places like Rome, Paris, and Amsterdam can be overwhelming. That's why it's time to consider some of the lesser-known but equally as beautiful cities of Eastern Europe. From the enchanting streets of Prague to the idyllic coastal towns of Croatia and the majestic mountains of Montenegro, Eastern Europe beckons with its charm and beauty. What's more, getting around is a breeze, thanks to an efficient network of trains, buses, and planes.
Explore the UK
Looking for somewhere that language isn't a barrier, then how about a refreshing journey to Northern Europe, where the United Kingdom beckons with its rich tapestry of history and culture. Begin your adventure in iconic London, where you can hop aboard a classic double-decker bus and marvel at the timeless grandeur of Big Ben. But why stop there? Elevate your graduation trip by venturing beyond England's capital to discover the captivating landscapes and vibrant cultures of Scotland and Wales. Cruise through the misty Scottish Highlands, where ancient castles and breathtaking scenery await around every bend, or immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Wales, with its rugged coastlines and verdant valleys. With summer temperatures averaging at comfortable levels (55 to 77 degrees), you'll find yourself truly able to savor the essence of these remarkable destinations.
Road Trip in Italy
If your heart is set on indulging in mouthwatering pizza and leisurely sipping Aperol Spritz in Italy for your graduation trip, why not make it an unforgettable Italian road trip? Cruising the winding roads of Italy not only grants you the freedom to uncover quaint spots in lesser-known cities but also allows you to bypass the hustle and bustle of crowded airports. Picture yourself cruising through picturesque landscapes, from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast, each bend in the road revealing a new chapter in your Italian adventure.
Discover Portugal
When you want a graduation trip full of sunshine and coastal views, then you head over to Portugal. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie looking to catch the best waves on Nosara, an explorer who is making their way through the island of Madeira, or simply ready to take in the timeless cities of Porto an Lisbon, Portugal has it all.
US Solo Travel
Thinking about a solo graduation trip? Plan one right in your own backyard. Well, not literally. The US is a grand place to explore on your own especially as a way to celebrate your graduation milestone. With cities and states you've never explored before this is your chance to hit the road, or take a flight across the country. Take in the city lights in New York City, or visit the historical towns in Georgia, each state unique with its own charm. If you've been thinking about taking a solo trip then take this as a sign to pull the plunge!
South African Adventure
For a graduation trip brimming with adventure and relaxation, set your sights on South Africa. Begin your journey with thrilling safaris in Kruger National Park, where you can spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo) in their natural habitat. Indulge your senses in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, South Africa's premier wine regions, for world-class wine tasting amidst picturesque vineyards. Then, head to the coastal paradise of Cape Town, where pristine beaches like Clifton and Camps Bay await, offering sun-drenched sands and azure waters perfect for unwinding.
West Coast to East Coast
Looking for a more affordable graduation trip idea, then get ready for a coast to coast road trip through the USA. Embark on an epic coast-to-coast graduation adventure, starting from the sun-kissed beaches of Southern California and ending in the vibrant coastal cities of Florida. Cruise through iconic spots like Santa Monica and Miami Beach, with stops to explore along the way. From the laid-back vibes of California to the sun-soaked bliss of Florida, this road trip promises unforgettable memories with friends.
Graduation Trip Ideas: Make it Memorable
We hope this guide has helped you find inspiration on where to travel for you much deserved graduation trip. Whether you are traveling or a loved one is heading off soon the best gift to give them is the experience of a lifetime. Let your graduate know how proud you are of them by helping them enjoy their graduation trip to the fullest.
Send them to a far off destination of their dreams with a flight gift card that they can redeem with over 400 airlines to over 980 global destinations. You can personalize this custom gift card with a sweet photo and sentimental message. The best part is they can redeem this flight gift card to wherever they want! With the whole world to discover your soon-to-be graduate is sure to appreciate this thoughtful graduation gift.
