What is the 30-day grace period?
Once your camp contract ends, you have up to 30 days to travel in the United States before returning home. This is one of the best parts of the program and a chance to explore America with the friends you have made at camp.
When does the 30 days start?
Your 30-day grace period begins the day after your camp program ends. For example, if your last day at camp is August 15, your 30-day period runs from August 16 to September 14 and you must leave the US by that date. Camp Leaders recommends planning to leave on or before your last day at camp to be safe.
When booking your return flight, make sure to account for your travel time. Plan ahead for any post-camp travel so you are not rushing at the end.
Where can I travel?
You can travel anywhere within the United States during your grace period. Popular destinations include New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, national parks, and road trips along the coast.
If you want to visit Mexico, Canada, or the Caribbean and then re-enter the US, there are additional visa requirements. See the Re-entering the US article for details.
Can I work during the travel period?
No. The 30-day grace period is for travel only. You are not permitted to work during this time, regardless of your visa category. Working during the grace period is a violation of your visa terms and could affect any future US visa applications.
What is a realistic daily budget?
Plan for around $100 to $200 per day to cover food, accommodation, and activities. Cities like New York and San Francisco are significantly more expensive than smaller towns or national parks.
Start thinking about your travel plans while you are still at camp. Make a rough plan and set your budget so you know how much you can spend and where.
Accommodation tips
When booking accommodation for your post-camp travel, keep these things in mind. Choose places with a 24-hour reception. You may need to be over 21 to check in to some hotels and hostels, so always check the terms before you book. Book accommodation with free cancellation where possible, as your plans may change. Hostels are a popular budget option, especially in cities.
Renting a car
If you want to rent a car, you must be at least 21 (some companies require 25). You will also need a valid driver's license and a credit card, as many rental agencies only accept major credit cards. Take out additional coverage on the vehicle, and check your insurance to see if rental car coverage is included, especially if you upgraded your Camp Leaders insurance.
If you are from a country where English is not the primary language, you will need an international driver's license to rent a car in the US.
Always carry the original copies of your documents and do not leave your passport in hostels or hotels.
Driving in the US
If you plan to drive, there are a few things to keep in mind. In the US, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are posted in miles per hour and vary by state and road type. Right turns on red are permitted in most states unless a sign says otherwise. Always wear your seatbelt, and never use your phone while driving.
Traffic laws are enforced strictly, and fines can be high. If you are pulled over by police, stay calm, keep your hands visible, and follow their instructions. You will need to carry your driver's license at all times while driving.
Booking internal flights
When booking flights within the US, check for nearby airports. Smaller regional airports are often cheaper than major city airports. Always check for hidden costs like baggage fees.
Boarding time is the time you should be at the gate, not the departure time. Keep an eye on screens for gate changes. If you miss a flight, go to the airline's customer service desk. Only the airline can rebook or offer alternatives.
Travel ideas and popular routes
Popular post-camp travel options include East Coast road trips, cross-country drives, national park tours, and city-hopping between major destinations. The Camp Leaders team have all traveled in the US and are happy to share recommendations.
Check the perks section of your Camp Leaders profile for exclusive discounts on post-camp tours and travel services.
Should I extend my insurance for travel?
Camp Leaders and your visa sponsor recommend maintaining insurance coverage throughout your travel period. The cost of medical care in the US without insurance can be extremely high.
The amount to extend your insurance is small compared to the potential cost of treatment. Visit the insurance section of your Camp Leaders profile for instructions on extending your coverage.
Your standard insurance covers you for 120 days. If your camp program plus travel period exceeds this, you will need to extend or upgrade before you depart.