Many groups choose to travel with startups or companies that are new to the industry because they are the most inexpensive. Many of those companies go out of business before the actual trip, taking the group’s payments with them.
Even if the trip does happen, it is frequently filled with errors and mistakes that create a negative experience. A solid track record of experience is important. Check with national organizations like the Student and Youth Travel Association (SYTA) to see if the tour operator is a member in good standing. This organization is the national voice for student travel and membership requirements are strict.