Frequently asked questions

BackpackerXP isn’t just about organizing trips—it’s about creating unique, memorable adventure experiences. Founded in the Himalayas, we have firsthand knowledge of the terrain, culture, and challenges, allowing us to offer genuine adventure travel that’s both exhilarating and safe. We specialize in high-altitude trekking, cultural immersions, and have even pioneered India's first-ever ‘All Women Himalayan Cycling Expedition’. Our focus is on quality, safety, and authenticity, giving you a well-rounded and memorable adventure with a community feel.

Our cancellation policy is designed to be fair and clear. You can cancel your booking up to 30 days in advance for a full refund (minus the booking amount), or choose to shift to a different batch at no charge. As the trip date approaches, cancellation fees apply incrementally: 25% for cancellations 29-21 days before, 50% for 21-15 days, and 100% for 14-0 days before departure.

Our payment policy allows flexibility. If you book more than 30 days in advance, a booking amount reserves your spot. For bookings 29-21 days prior, a 50% payment becomes compulsory, while a full 100% payment is needed if booking within 14-7 days of the trip. We recommend early payment to ensure your participation, especially during peak seasons.

We provide extensive support throughout your journey. Our professional guides are trained to handle everything from route navigation to emergency situations. Additionally, each trip is equipped with a first-aid kit, and our team assists with any logistical needs, ensuring a safe and smooth experience from start to finish.

Absolutely! We offer trips for all levels of experience, from easy and moderate to challenging. For beginners, we recommend choosing easier treks, tours, or cultural experiences that allow you to enjoy the journey without physical strain. Our team is always available to suggest trips suited to your fitness level and preferences.

In the rare event of an emergency, our guides are trained to act swiftly and prioritize safety. Each trip has a set protocol for emergencies, including contacting local authorities if needed, evacuating participants, and arranging medical assistance. We strongly recommend that travelers have personal travel insurance to cover emergencies, particularly on high-altitude and remote expeditions.

We provide accommodations suited to the nature of each trip, including camps, guesthouses, and boutique homestays. Our priority is comfort, hygiene, and proximity to the natural surroundings. For bike tours or road trips, we often stay at local accommodations that give travelers an authentic experience of the region.

For most trips, we provide essential equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and trekking poles. For bike trips, riders need to bring or rent their own bikes and gear, but we can recommend rental partners. We advise all travelers to bring personal items and specific gear as outlined in the packing list.

While we don’t require travel insurance for all trips, we highly recommend it, especially for high-altitude treks, adventure sports, or international trips. Ideal travel insurance should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, delays, and baggage loss. Make sure to choose insurance that includes coverage for adventure activities, as many standard policies exclude them.

Yes, we understand that plans can change. If you need to reschedule, you can shift your booking to a different batch at no extra cost if done at least 30 days in advance. For rescheduling closer to the trip date, we recommend contacting our support team to discuss options.

Each trip varies in difficulty. We recommend moderate fitness for treks and bike trips, as they can involve sustained activity at high altitudes or rugged terrains. Our team can provide guidance based on your fitness level, so feel free to reach out for recommendations that align with your capabilities.

Yes! BackpackerXP can organize custom or private tours for groups, families, or corporate teams. Our team will work closely with you to design an itinerary tailored to your group’s interests, schedule, and preferences, ensuring an unforgettable and personalized experience.

Safety is our top priority. Our guides are certified in first aid and trained to manage emergencies. For high-altitude or strenuous trips, we bring essential equipment like oxygen cylinders and medical kits. Our team also monitors weather forecasts and has contingency plans for any unforeseen circumstances.

For most trips, we provide essential equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and trekking poles. For bike trips, riders need to bring or rent their own bikes and gear, but we can recommend rental partners. We advise all travelers to bring personal items and specific gear as outlined in the packing list.

Most of our trips include meals as per the itinerary, focusing on local, hygienic, and nutritious options. Meals vary based on location; for instance, in high-altitude areas, we provide energy-rich, simple meals. On other trips, travelers may get a taste of regional cuisine as part of the cultural experience.

Choosing the right trip depends on your interests, physical fitness, and availability. If you’re unsure, our customer service team can help you pick the best fit based on your preferences and experience level. Whether you’re interested in a relaxed cultural trip, an adventure-filled trek, or a thrilling bike expedition, we’ll guide you towards the ideal choice.

Altitude sickness can affect anyone at elevations above 8,000 feet. To mitigate risks, we advise gradual acclimatization, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol. Our guides monitor each participant's health during high-altitude treks and carry essential supplies to manage mild symptoms. In case of severe symptoms, immediate descent is the safest course of action.

Absolutely, solo travelers are more than welcome! Many of our participants join solo and enjoy meeting like-minded adventurers on our trips. Our group settings are designed to be friendly and inclusive, so even solo travelers feel comfortable and part of the experience. Plus, solo travel allows for flexible schedules and personal growth.

We’re deeply committed to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the places we explore. BackpackerXP follows a Leave No Trace policy, ensuring we minimize waste, respect wildlife, and support local communities. We encourage travelers to do the same by using reusable water bottles, minimizing single-use plastics, and respecting local customs and ecosystems. Sustainable and responsible tourism is core to our values, and we believe it’s essential for a positive impact on the environment and local culture.

We’re here to help! You can reach us via email, WhatsApp, or the contact number on our website for pre-trip queries. Once your trip begins, our team will provide direct contact details for your guides and support team, ensuring you have help whenever needed.