GUIDE 2026Group Travel

Group Travel for Clubs

Planning a club trip? Complete guide to organizing successful group travel: Best providers, booking tips, and how to get the best group discounts.

6 Group Specialists
Up to 20% Discount
Updated 2026

Why Book as a Group?

Whether you are organizing a sports club outing, a choir trip, a veterans association excursion, or a hobby group adventure, booking as a group offers significant advantages over individual bookings. Tour operators are eager for group business and offer substantial discounts to win it.

Group travel also means shared experiences, simplified logistics (one booking instead of many), dedicated support, and often extras like private guides or exclusive experiences that would not be available to individual travelers.

This guide helps you navigate the group travel market, choose the right provider, and organize a successful trip that your club members will remember for years.

Group Discount Overview

Group SizeTypical DiscountFree PlacesNotes
10-14 people5-10% discountRarelyMinimum for most group rates
15-19 people10-15% discount1 free place commonSweet spot for small clubs
20-29 people15-20% discount1-2 free placesBetter negotiating power
30+ peopleCustom pricing2+ free placesBest rates, most flexibility

6 Steps to a Successful Club Trip

1

Survey Your Members

Find out: preferred dates, budget range, destination wishes, mobility needs, and dietary requirements.

Tip: Use online surveys (Google Forms, Doodle) to collect preferences efficiently.

2

Set Budget & Timeline

Determine total budget per person, including contingency. Start planning 6-12 months ahead for best prices.

Tip: Collect deposits early to secure commitment and lock in group rates.

3

Get Multiple Quotes

Contact at least 3 providers with your requirements. Compare not just price but included services.

Tip: Ask about free places, single room options, and cancellation policies.

4

Negotiate Terms

Group bookings allow negotiation. Ask for extras, better rooms, or additional free places.

Tip: Mention you are considering competitors - providers often match or beat offers.

5

Manage Bookings

Create rooming list, collect passports/documents, handle special requests, and track payments.

Tip: Use a spreadsheet to track all participant details and payment status.

6

Communicate Clearly

Send regular updates, final itinerary, packing list, and emergency contacts to all participants.

Tip: Create a WhatsApp group for trip communication and last-minute updates.

Group Travel Provider Comparison

Eberhardt Travel

Group tours and club trips

Min. 20 people4.2/5
Group Discount

Up to 20% group discount

Price Range

Budget-Mid

Trip Types

Bus toursRiver cruisesCity tripsCustom itineraries

Group Services

  • Free planning consultation
  • Dedicated group coordinator
  • Flexible payment terms
Best for: Traditional club outings and bus tours

DER Touristik Groups

Full-service group travel

Min. 15 people4.4/5
Group Discount

1 free place per 15-20 paying

Price Range

Mid-range

Trip Types

Worldwide destinationsPackage holidaysCustom programsMeet & greet

Group Services

  • Dedicated account manager
  • Rooming list management
  • Special meals coordination
Best for: Larger clubs wanting comprehensive service

TUI Groups & Incentives

Premium group travel

Min. 10 people4.5/5
Group Discount

Negotiated group rates

Price Range

Mid-Premium

Trip Types

Premium destinationsTUI hotelsFull customizationEvent organization

Group Services

  • 24/7 support
  • Branding options
  • Special experiences
Best for: Clubs wanting quality and memorable experiences

Studiosus Gruppenreisen

Cultural group tours

Min. 15 people4.6/5
Group Discount

Group pricing on request

Price Range

Premium

Trip Types

Expert guidesEducational contentCultural depthQuality accommodation

Group Services

  • Customizable itineraries
  • Expert consultation
  • Pre-trip materials
Best for: Cultural clubs and educational groups

Olimar Gruppenreisen

Portugal and Spain specialists

Min. 15 people4.3/5
Group Discount

1 free place per 20 paying

Price Range

Mid-range

Trip Types

Iberian expertiseWine toursGolf groupsBeach destinations

Group Services

  • Regional expertise
  • Custom wine tastings
  • Golf arrangements
Best for: Groups interested in Portugal/Spain

BVB Bus Tours

Coach travel specialists

Min. 20 people4.1/5
Group Discount

Competitive bus charter rates

Price Range

Budget

Trip Types

Bus chartersDay tripsMulti-day toursAirport transfers

Group Services

  • Modern fleet
  • Experienced drivers
  • On-board facilities
Best for: Clubs organizing own programs needing transport

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people do we need for a group booking?

Most tour operators consider 10+ people a group booking eligible for discounts. The best rates typically start at 15-20 people. Some providers offer group services from as few as 6-8 people for specific destinations or activities.

What is a "free place" in group travel?

A free place (Freiplatz) means one person travels free when a certain number of paying guests book. Typically 1 free place per 15-20 paying guests. This is often given to the trip organizer. Free places are negotiable for larger groups.

How far in advance should we book a club trip?

Start planning 9-12 months ahead for the best prices and availability, especially for popular destinations or peak season travel. For complex itineraries or large groups (30+), start 12-18 months ahead. Last-minute group bookings (3-6 months) may get discounts but have limited options.

Can we customize the itinerary for our group?

Yes, most group travel providers offer customization. You can often adjust destinations, activities, meal plans, and schedule to suit your club interests. Fully custom trips require larger groups (usually 20+) and longer planning time.

What happens if someone cancels from the group?

Cancellation policies vary by provider and timing. Early cancellations (60+ days) often allow replacement with another person at no cost. Late cancellations may incur fees. The group rate may be affected if you fall below minimum numbers - negotiate guaranteed rates.

Who handles the money and payments?

Typically, the club treasurer or trip organizer collects payments from members and makes a single payment to the provider. Some providers offer individual payment options. Always get clear payment schedules and keep detailed records.

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