What training do I need for travel?
The training you need depends on the type of trip you’re taking. If you are staying in a building (hotel/hostel/lodge, etc.) with flush toilets, you must complete Camping 101 training, which is online in gsLearn. Log in using the MY GS link on our website.
If you plan to camp on your trip and build a fire, you must complete Camping 102, a hybrid training with an online portion and an in-person, hands-on assessment. Link to that training page we have been using
For all troop travel, from local field trips to international voyages, at least one volunteer accompanying the group must complete First Aid/CPR training with an accredited organization that includes an in-person assessment. We do NOT accept online-only courses. Medical professionals may also act as your first-aid-certified adult. For some adventure travel, additional training may be required.
When do I need additional travel insurance?
Additional insurance is only required when traveling internationally with Girl Scouts. You can purchase coverage through Girl Scouts or your tour group/company.
Optional additional accident and sickness coverage is available at a rate of $.70 per person per day. This plan may be appropriate for immunocompromised participants or adults who do not hold their own insurance policies.
How can I use Cookie Dough for EF Tours or Girl Scout Destinations?
If you have Cookie Dough, you must use it by September 30. To apply, complete our redemption form.
What documents should I take when our troop travels?
Ensure that volunteers traveling with girls have a current Heath History and Annual Permission Form for each girl at the party. It is also a good idea, but not mandatory, to have a form for each adult on the trip.
When does my troop need approval to travel?
Council approval is required for the following travel experiences:
- High-risk activities
- A day trip more than 3 hours from home
- An overnight that is not at either Camp Prairie Schooner or Camp Tongawood
- 3-4 night regional trips
- 4+ night trips anywhere in the USA
- International travel
Approval is not required for the following:
- Local field trips
- Day trips in your local area – within 3 hours of home
- Overnight trips at either Camp Prairie Schooner or Camp Tongawood. Your camp reservation covers your approval
Apply for approval using our Activity & Trip Application form.
What happens after I submit the Activity and Trip Application?
When an application is submitted, troops will receive an email within two weeks with one of the following answers:
- If the trip or activity is approved, no further steps are required.
- The trip or activity is tentatively approved. This email will describe additional steps.
- A trip or activity is not approved.
Once full or tentative approval is granted, troops may begin booking the trip. If plans change, a new application must be submitted.
What do I do if there is an accident?
First, provide all possible care for anyone who is injured. Seek emergency medical assistance, if warranted, and let GSKSMO know there was an accident by calling our emergency line: 816-759-3040.
Detailed accident information can be found on page 16 of the Safety Activity Checkpoints under First Aid.
Submit an Incident Report as soon as possible after any incident, injury, or accident involving girls or adults participating in a Girl Scout activity.
Can our troop raise travel funds beyond the Girl Scout Cookie and Fall Product programs?
Yes! Troops must participate in the Girl Scout Cookie Program but can supplement cookie proceeds with additional troop money-earning activities.
Money earning must adhere to GSKSMO policies, be age and skill-appropriate, properly supervised, and be decided upon with the girls’ input.
All money-earning must be approved prior to participation by completing the Money Earning Application at least four weeks before the project.
For further information on troop money earning, please see the Troop Money Earning section of our Leader Resources webpage.
Do I need to submit an Activity and Trip application for a Service Unit event?
Service Units should follow the same trip and activity guidelines as if a troop was planning the event. The SU Event Consultant or event-specific volunteer will submit one Activity and Trip Application for everyone attending the event. Individual troops do not need to submit the form.
Keep in mind the following requirements:
- Daisies who have completed Kindergarten can participate in a one-night overnight within GSKSMO Council boundaries
- All drivers and adult helpers must be an approved Girl Scout volunteer
Is it possible to visit Girl Scout properties that are not owned by GSKSMO?
Yes! Girl Scout Councils across the country have properties and camps that your troop can utilize. Find sites by consulting GSUSA’s Property Directory map.
