Is my group's money safe with Rayburn Tours?

Yes. We are ABTA bonded and can therefore guarantee total financial security. Booking with an ABTA bonded company like ours ensures peace of mind and guarantees financial security in the unlikely event of financial failure. In addition, our air travel packages are ATOL protected, (we hold an Air Travel Organisers Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority).

Can you provide Risk Assessments?

Yes. We will provide you with a Generic Risk Assessment Handbook which is relevant to all our trips. In addition, you will also receive Specific Risk Assessments which cover all our après ski events. These are very beneficial and will greatly assist you when completing your own risk assessments. In addition, we carry out audits of all our accommodation centres and we can provide copies of these on request.

Does the price include a courier?

Yes! All of our ski groups have one courier designated to them to take care of all the trip logistics and to ensure that everyone in the group enjoys their trip. The courier may meet you in resort but sometimes it is possible for them to travel to and from resort with your group.

Does the price include travel insurance?

Yes, we automatically include travel insurance in your price unless you advise us you do not require this at the enquiry stage. If you have your own insurance please let us know and we will amend your quote accordingly. We will then send you an insurance indemnity form to complete and return to officially confirm that alternative insurance cover has been arranged for your group.

Do the coaches you provide have seatbelts?

All UK coaches have seatbelts in accordance with the law. Please note that these are usually lap-belts rather than the three-point seatbelts which are fitted in cars.

Regarding foreign coach hire, it is important to note that coaches outside the UK vary in standard and specification. Whilst all coaches adhere strictly to both the safety and coach operator regulations, these may not be the same as UK regulations and whilst every effort is made to request coaches with seatbelts for our groups, it is not currently a legal requirement in the majority of European destinations.

Are après ski costs included in my price?

We now include a completely free après-ski pack which contains ideas and events to run easy in-house après events. However, there is also a number of additional activities available in each resort, please see our destinations pages or contact one of our Ski Trip Consultants for more information.

What is a collective passport and how do I get one?

A collective passport allows groups of under 18s to travel without their own individual passports, provided that they are part of a school or recognised youth group. All students travelling under the collective passport must be British nationals and the group leader must hold a full and valid UK passport. Group leaders can apply for a collective passport from all UK passport agencies and are advised to allow at least six weeks for your application to be processed. Please note that Rayburn Tours will reimburse you for the cost of the collective passport for use on coach trips.

Some members of my group have non-UK passports. Is this a problem?

All passengers with non-UK passports should check with the office from which their passport was issued to check entry and visa regulations for the destination country. It is also important to check that the holder of the passport may travel through all countries en-route. Please remember that non-UK nationals are not permitted to travel on a collective passport.

We often use a local coach company. Can we use them on our Rayburn Tour?

Yes. We understand what a positive difference a trusted coach company can make to the success of any trip and we are always happy to use your preferred operator. (Subject to availability).

Can we fly with low-cost airlines?

Yes. Scheduled airlines do offer greater reliability and peace of mind for groups, however, low cost airlines can often provide convenient routes at good prices. We can use either and are happy to discuss the pros and cons of using each one with you.

Can I undertake an inspection visit before I travel?

Yes. We understand how important inspection trips are to give a party leader complete peace of mind. We offer set departure inspection visits to allow party leaders the chance to familiarise themselves with resorts, the slopes, our hotel options and the general geography of the resorts we use. We are also happy to arrange bespoke inspection trips if necessary and will always do what we can to keep the costs low.

Can we cater for special needs and disabled passengers?

Yes. As long as we are informed at the enquiry stage we can work together to try and provide your group with any special arrangements or facilities which you may require. Read More...

Is there an emergency contact available at all times in the UK?

Yes, Rayburn Tours operate a 24 hour emergency service to all our groups whilst on their trip, maintained by a senior member of staff at all times. In addition we also have couriers accompanying our ski groups who can act as your first point of contact if any issues arise.

How do I get the students to sign up for the trip?

Usually the excitement of a ski trip is enough for students to sign up but Rayburn Tours is more than happy to assist you in gaining support for your trip with personalised posters, letter suggestions and reply slips. We can also help you increase interest in your trip through personal meetings and presentations, or we can host a parents evening to answer any questions that parents may have.

How far should I book in advance?

We recommend booking as early as possible. As a general guideline our trips generally book between 9 and 14 months in advance. For instance, if you are looking to depart in April, we recommend that you get in contact with us by July the preceding year. This allows us to ensure you get the best available rates and reservations for your hotels, flights or ferry crossings and any après ski activities you'd like. However, if you do have to enquire within 9 months of your trip departing, contact one of our representatives as soon as possible and they will do everything they can to ensure your trip's success