By plane or by coach? First camp abroad
Traveling by Plane
Traveling by plane is a fast and convenient way to reach your first camp abroad. For many people, it’s also an exciting experience, especially if it’s their first time flying. However, despite the clear advantages, it’s also worth considering some inconveniences associated with air travel.
Advantages of Traveling by Plane
✅ Shorter travel time – The airplane is by far the fastest means of transportation, making it possible to reach even distant destinations within a few hours. Compared to long, and sometimes even multi-day, coach journeys, flying offers a huge time savings.
✅ Less fatigue – Due to the shorter travel time, passengers do not experience the same level of exhaustion as during long coach rides. Onboard, it's possible to relax or even take a nap, which means travelers arrive more rested and ready to start the camp.
✅ New experience – For those who have never flown before, taking a flight can be an interesting and valuable experience. Learning about airport procedures like check-in, security checks, and baggage claim can be a useful lesson for future trips.
Disadvantages of Traveling by Plane
❌ Need to arrive early at the airport – Unlike coach travel, where arriving a few minutes before departure is often enough, flights require early check-in. It’s usually recommended to be at the airport at least 2–3 hours before departure, which significantly extends the overall travel time.
❌ Baggage restrictions – When flying, travelers must adhere to strict rules regarding baggage size and weight. Many low-cost airlines allow only a small carry-on bag, and checked luggage often involves additional fees. This can be problematic, especially when a camp requires packing more items.
❌ Higher costs – Although cheap flights can sometimes be found, in general, flying is a more expensive option compared to taking a coach. In addition to the ticket price, extra charges often apply for baggage, airport transfers, or onboard snacks. For group trips organized by travel agencies, flying can significantly increase the overall cost of the camp.
Despite some disadvantages, flying is often the best option for those who want to reach their destination quickly and comfortably. However, it’s worth carefully considering your needs and budget to make the best decision.
On the GoFunlo platform, you’ll find camps that offer air travel. We fly to Greece, Bulgaria, and Spain.
Bulgaria – Golden Sands – Hotel Helios – Ages 14–19 – By Plane
Golden Sands is a popular Bulgarian resort, perfect for young people looking for active relaxation and fun. The camp offers beach time, sports activities, urban games, excursions to Aladzha Monastery, as well as evening parties and optional trips around Bulgaria. Accommodation is provided at Hotel Helios with an All-Inclusive plan, pools, and beach access. Activities include sports, group bonding, and sightseeing.
Spain – Lloret de Mar – Royal Star – Ages 14–19 – By Plane
Lloret de Mar is a Spanish town known for its nightlife and beautiful beaches, ideal for young tourists looking for fun. The camp program includes a trip to Barcelona, beach time, water sports, and parties. Participants can also enjoy optional excursions and boat trips. Accommodation is at the Royal Star hotel, which features a pool, gym, and convenient access to the beach and local attractions.
Greece – Corfu – Sandy Beach Complex – Ages 14–19 – By Plane
A camp on the island of Corfu is an ideal option for water lovers and fans of active holidays. Participants can enjoy a waterpark, trips to the Blue Lagoon, diving, beach sports, and evening events. Accommodation is in the Sandy Beach Complex, just 20 meters from the beach. The hotel offers a pool, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. The camp program also includes island tours and relaxing moments by the pool.
Coach Travel
Traveling by coach is a popular option for group trips, including international camps. Although it takes more time than flying, it has its advantages—especially when it comes to cost and luggage flexibility. However, it’s also important to consider some of the drawbacks before choosing this mode of transportation.
Advantages of Traveling by Coach
✅ Lower cost – Traveling by coach is usually cheaper than flying, making it a more accessible option for those on a limited budget. Ticket prices often include all fees, with no need to pay extra for luggage or additional services.
✅ Fewer luggage restrictions – Unlike air travel, coaches have more relaxed baggage rules. This means camp participants can bring larger suitcases without worrying about extra fees or strict weight limits. It's especially useful when packing sleeping bags, sports gear, or other essentials.
✅ Sightseeing along the way – Coach trips often include stops in interesting locations, offering the chance for short sightseeing breaks or rest in scenic places. For many people, this makes the journey more appealing than flying, where most time is spent in airports and the air.
Disadvantages of Traveling by Coach
❌ Long travel time – One of the biggest downsides of coach travel is the duration. For longer routes, the journey can take many hours or even days. This can be exhausting and monotonous, especially if it involves overnight travel.
❌ Limited comfort – Although modern coaches provide comfortable seats and air conditioning, they still don’t match the comfort level of a plane. Limited legroom, cramped space, or lack of an onboard toilet in some coaches can reduce comfort. Additionally, traffic and unforeseen delays can extend the journey beyond the expected time.
❌ Frequent stops – Coach trips require regular breaks for rest, meals, or refueling. While these breaks are necessary and allow travelers to stretch, they also add to the total travel time and may involve stops in places that aren't particularly interesting.
Coach travel is a good choice for those who want to save money and bring more luggage. However, before making a decision, it’s worth considering the distance and your personal preferences for comfort and travel time.
Coach travel has undeniable advantages—stopping at interesting locations along the way and discovering local attractions makes the journey part of the holiday adventure. Many GoFunlo camp offers include such experiences, allowing you to explore fascinating places before even reaching your final destination.
GOLDEN SANDS – PARTY TIME VIP – CARNIVAL 2025
A coach trip to Golden Sands is a unique chance to explore interesting places along the way, such as Budapest. Participants will have the opportunity to see St. Stephen's Basilica, the Opera House, and the Parliament, as well as relax at the Palatinus thermal baths. On the way to Bulgaria, there’s also a planned stop in Nessebar—one of Bulgaria’s most beautiful cities, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
SPAIN – BLANES – ESPLENDID – 2025 – PARIS AND GARDALAND
A coach trip to Spain is a great opportunity to explore Paris on the way to Blanes. Camp participants will visit iconic French landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. A visit to Gardaland amusement park is also planned en route to Spain, offering a day full of fun.
Youth Camp – Crazy Paris – Disneyland and Parc Astérix
This Paris trip combines sightseeing iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Montmartre with visits to Parc Astérix and Disneyland. Traveling by coach allows for a richer travel experience, offering great views and time to rest before the intensive sightseeing begins.
What to Pack for a Camp by Plane
Main luggage (suitcase, max. 20–23 kg, depending on airline):
✅ Clothes for the entire stay (light, comfortable, climate-appropriate)
✅ Jacket or sweatshirt for cooler evenings
✅ Swimsuit, beach towel
✅ Shoes: comfortable walking shoes, flip-flops, sports shoes
✅ Toiletries in containers up to 100 ml (if in hand luggage)
✅ Medications (regular use + basic first aid)
✅ Phone charger and power bank (in hand luggage)
✅ Sunglasses, cap
✅ Sunscreen
Hand luggage (backpack, max. 8–10 kg):
✅ Documents: passport/ID, EHIC card, money
✅ Snacks, water (after security check)
✅ Sleep mask, travel pillow (for longer flights)
✅ Book, headphones, tablet for entertainment
✅ Small toiletries: wet wipes, deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste
❌ Do NOT pack in hand luggage:
❌ Liquids over 100 ml
❌ Sharp objects (scissors, nail files, pocket knives)
What to Pack for a Camp by Coach
Coach travel allows more freedom in packing, but comfort during long rides should be considered.
Main luggage (large bag/suitcase):
✅ Clothes for the entire stay, including something warm for cooler evenings
✅ Beach and bath towels
✅ Swimsuit
✅ Shoes for different occasions: comfortable for sightseeing, flip-flops, sports shoes
✅ Toiletries and hygiene products
✅ Medications, basic first aid kit
✅ Charger, power bank
Carry-on bag (coach backpack):
✅ Documents, money, phone
✅ Water, snacks
✅ Travel pillow, blanket
✅ Wet wipes, deodorant
✅ Book, headphones, games on phone/tablet
✅ Motion sickness medicine (if needed)
Extra Tips:
Keep a spare sweatshirt handy – coach air conditioning can be strong.
Pack light snacks, avoiding heavy or greasy food.
If your luggage is stored in the coach's hold, keep essentials within reach.
At What Age to Go on a Camp Abroad?
Youth camps abroad usually start from age 12, though many programs are aimed at participants aged 14 and up. The age depends on the camp type—language, sports, or adventure camps often have different age thresholds.
The best age for a first international camp is usually between 12–14, when a child is independent enough to handle new environments but still benefits from full supervision. Older teens (15–18) can enjoy more freedom and richer programs, including evening outings or more intensive thematic activities.
Summary
Choosing transportation for your first international camp depends on personal preferences and budget. Plane travel is fast and comfortable but comes with higher costs and baggage limits. Coach travel is cheaper and allows more packing flexibility but requires longer travel time and may be less comfortable. This article presents the pros and cons of both options, along with practical packing tips.
