When Juliette Gordon Low started Girl Scouts, she created a program that encourages girls to take risks, experience new things, and indulge their sense of curiosity. You can do just that when you travel internationally with Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania.

Before you pack your bags, you might have some questions. Lucky for you, we have answers! Check out these FAQs, and then set off on your next adventure!

Why should I consider traveling abroad?

International travel helps girls grow, explained Brynne Hall, program coordinator – girl leadership for Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania. Traveling abroad exposes girls to diversity, helps them embrace different cultures, builds confidence and independence, and promotes leadership skills.

Why should I travel with Girl Scouts?

Girl Scouts provides travel peace of mind. Hall notes that traveling with Girl Scouts takes away the stress of planning the details of a trip and comes with the knowledge that you will be traveling with Girl Scout staff and volunteers who put safety first, providing the best experience for girls to grow and see the world.

Where can I travel with Girl Scouts?

In the summer of 2023, Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania traveled to Belize, and a trip to London and Paris is planned for this summer. Next year, we’ll be heading to Iceland!

How does Girl Scouts prepare girls for international travel?

Girl Scouts emphasizes travel progression. The youngest Girl Scouts in Daisies might take a day trip with their troop, while Brownies may try overnight camp, and Juniors might travel to destinations within the country. By the time girls reach Cadette level and beyond, international travel is a natural next step in the progression as girls gain confidence and travel experience at each level.

How do I know a destination is a good choice for me?

“Research the location first to see if it is somewhere you want to go,” Hall said. “Since it is an investment, make sure you want to spend seven-plus days in that location.” Consider the weather, food, customs, and more.

How can I learn more about a specific Girl Scout trip?

We regularly hold information sessions prior to international trips, and we provide recordings of the session for anyone to access anytime, Hall noted. You’ll learn what is planned for a specific trip and what to expect.

What can I do to prepare myself for international travel?

Ask questions! “If you know someone who has traveled to the location you are considering, ask them what they liked, what tips they have, and how to get the most out of that location,” Hall suggested. Once you’re signed up for a trip, participate in the bi-monthly and monthly Zoom meetings, where we cover all possible topics travelers need to know before they go!

What do I do next?

Ready to hit the road? We are still taking girls for our Iceland trip in the summer of 2025, with registration accepted as space allows through Sept. 30. Find out more at www.eftours.com/2664748pf

Iceland: Glaciers and Geysers | EF Tours for Girls↗

Written by Cathy Molitoris, Marketing Coordinator for Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania.