The Ultimate Beginner Guide To Travelling With Contiki
Jan 14 2026
Travelling the world is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, but planning an international trip can feel overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. Between arranging transport, finding accommodation, budgeting, and creating an itinerary, there's a lot to think about. That's where Contiki comes in.
Designed exclusively for travellers aged 18 to 35, Contiki makes exploring the world simple, social, and stress-free. Whether you're dreaming of backpacking through Europe, island hopping in Greece, exploring Japan's vibrant cities, or experiencing Australia's natural beauty, Contiki handles the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.
If you're wondering whether Contiki is right for you, this beginner's guide covers everything you need to know before booking your first trip.
What Is Contiki?
Contiki is a group travel company that specialises in guided tours for young adults aged 18-35. Since its founding in 1962, it has helped millions of travellers explore more than 75 countries through carefully planned itineraries that combine sightseeing, local experiences, adventure activities, and free time.
Unlike traditional package holidays, Contiki focuses on creating unforgettable experiences while giving travellers the opportunity to meet like-minded people from around the world.
Whether you're travelling alone or with friends, you'll join a group led by experienced Trip Managers and local guides who ensure everything runs smoothly throughout your journey.
Why Choose Contiki?
One of the biggest reasons people choose Contiki is convenience. Instead of spending weeks researching routes, hotels, trains, or attractions, everything is organised for you.
Some of the biggest benefits include:
Feature | Why It Matters |
Pre-planned itineraries | Saves hours of travel planning |
Group travel | Meet travellers from around the world |
Expert Trip Managers | Local knowledge and support |
Comfortable transport | Coaches, trains, ferries, and flights on selected tours |
Flexible free time | Explore destinations independently |
Unique experiences | Local food, culture, and adventure activities |
This balance between structured travel and personal freedom makes Contiki particularly appealing for first-time international travellers.
Who Can Travel With Contiki?
Contiki tours are exclusively designed for travellers between 18 and 35 years old.
The majority of guests are:
Solo travellers
University students
Young professionals
Couples
Friends travelling together
Gap year travellers
Solo travellers often make up a significant portion of each tour, making it easy to connect with new people and build lasting friendships.
What Is Included in a Contiki Tour?
The exact inclusions vary depending on the itinerary, but most Contiki tours include:
Accommodation
Accommodation can range from hotels and hostels to unique stays such as cabins, lodges, or locally owned guesthouses.
Transportation
Most internal transport is covered, including:
Private coaches
Ferries
Trains
Selected domestic flights
Airport transfers on certain itineraries
Meals
Many tours include breakfasts and selected lunches or dinners. Local food experiences are often part of the itinerary.
Guided Experiences
You'll visit famous attractions while learning from experienced local guides who provide historical and cultural insights.
Trip Manager
Every Contiki tour includes a dedicated Trip Manager who coordinates logistics, answers questions, and ensures everything runs smoothly.
What Isn't Included?
It's important to budget for additional expenses.
These commonly include:
Usually Not Included | Examples |
International flights | Flights to and from your destination |
Travel insurance | Strongly recommended |
Visas | Where required |
Optional experiences | Adventure activities and excursions |
Personal spending | Shopping, souvenirs, snacks |
Some meals | Depending on the itinerary |
Understanding these additional costs helps avoid surprises during your trip.
Popular Contiki Destinations
Contiki offers hundreds of itineraries across multiple continents.
Some of the most popular destinations include:
Region | Popular Trips |
Europe | Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, Croatia |
Asia | Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Bali |
Oceania | Australia, New Zealand |
North America | USA, Canada |
South America | Peru, Argentina, Brazil |
Africa | South Africa, Morocco, Kenya |
Europe remains one of Contiki's most popular regions, especially for first-time travellers.
What Is a Typical Day Like?
No two days are exactly the same, but a typical itinerary often looks like this:
Morning
Breakfast
Coach departure
Scenic drives
Walking tours
Afternoon
Explore landmarks
Local experiences
Museums
Shopping
Optional activities
Evening
Group dinners
Nightlife
Cultural performances
Free time with fellow travellers
The pace is generally active, allowing you to experience multiple destinations during a single trip.
How Much Does Contiki Cost?
Pricing depends on:
Destination
Trip duration
Season
Accommodation style
Included activities
Short trips are naturally more affordable, while longer multi-country adventures cost more due to additional transport and experiences.
To maximise value, consider booking during seasonal promotions or taking advantage of early booking offers.
Tips to Save Money On Your Contiki Trip
Travelling doesn't have to break the bank.
Here are some practical ways to save:
Book early for better pricing.
Watch for seasonal promotions.
Use verified Contiki discount codes when available.
Travel during shoulder seasons.
Budget separately for optional activities.
Bring a reusable water bottle.
Limit excess luggage to avoid airline fees.
Small savings throughout your journey can significantly reduce your overall travel costs.
Essential Packing Checklist
Packing smart makes travelling much easier.
Documents
Passport
Visa (if required)
Travel insurance
Flight confirmations
Emergency contacts
Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothes
Warm layers
Rain jacket
Swimwear
Electronics
Phone
Charger
Universal travel adapter
Power bank
Camera
Health
Prescription medication
Basic first-aid kit
Sunscreen
Reusable water bottle
Safety Tips for First-Time Travellers
Travelling with a group is generally easier than travelling independently, but it's still important to stay prepared.
Remember to:
Keep copies of important documents.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Follow local laws and customs.
Stay aware of your surroundings.
Keep emergency contacts accessible.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure.
Is Contiki Good for Solo Travellers?
Absolutely.
One of Contiki's biggest strengths is its welcoming social environment. Many travellers join alone, which means you're likely to meet others in the same situation.
Group activities, shared accommodation options, and organised excursions make it much easier to form friendships compared to travelling independently.
For many people, a Contiki tour becomes the start of lifelong travel friendships.
Final Thoughts
For first-time international travellers, Contiki offers an excellent balance of convenience, adventure, and social connection. By taking care of accommodation, transportation, and much of the planning, it allows you to experience new destinations with confidence while meeting fellow travellers from around the world.
Whether you're exploring iconic European cities, discovering Japan's culture, or embarking on an Australian road trip, your first Contiki adventure can be the beginning of many unforgettable journeys. With the right preparation, a realistic budget, and an open mind, you'll be well-equipped to make the most of every moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Contiki only for people aged 18-35?
Yes. Contiki tours are exclusively for travellers aged 18-35, creating a fun and social environment where everyone is in a similar stage of life. This makes it easier to connect with fellow travellers and enjoy group experiences together.
Can I travel alone?
Absolutely! Contiki is a popular choice for solo travellers, and many guests join tours on their own. It's a great way to meet new people, make friends from around the world, and enjoy the safety and convenience of group travel.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended and may be required for certain trips. It helps protect you against unexpected situations like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, or travel delays.
Are flights included?
In most cases, international flights are not included in the tour price. However, many Contiki trips include transportation between destinations, and some itineraries may also include domestic flights.
Are optional activities worth it?
Definitely! Optional experiences let you customise your trip with unique adventures, cultural activities, and local attractions. While they're not mandatory, many travellers consider them some of the most memorable parts of their Contiki journey.