How do flights work?
In most countries, you are responsible for booking your own flights to the US. In a small number of countries, Camp Leaders arranges flights for first-time participants as part of the program. Check the travel and flights section of your Camp Leaders profile to see which applies to you.
How do I book my own flights?
Only book your own flights if Camp Leaders is not arranging them for you. Your Camp Leaders profile and local office will confirm which applies to you. If flights are included in your program, booking your own means paying twice.
When you're ready to book, keep the following in mind.
You must fly to the airport specified by your camp and arrive on or before the date they've set.
Many US cities have multiple airports with similar names, so double check you're booking to the correct one.
Read the onward travel information in your profile before booking so you know the required landing time and any pickup schedules.
If your camp is picking you up and no pickup time is listed, plan to arrive as early as possible.
Allow at least one hour to pass through passport control and collect your luggage.
Book a flexible return ticket that allows date changes.
Your J-1 visa allows up to 30 days of travel after your contract ends, and your return flight must depart the US within that window. Overstaying can negatively affect your future travel to the US.
Once your flight is booked, upload your return flight itinerary to the documents section of your profile.
Read the airline's terms and conditions before booking. You're responsible for any fees related to changes, cancellations, or missed flights.
If you have any concerns about your arrival date, arrival airport, or onward travel, contact the Camp Leaders team before booking.
When should I book my own flights?
You'll receive communication and guidance from the Camp Leaders team on when to book. Camp Leaders typically recommends waiting until your J-1 visa is approved before booking.
Flight prices tend to rise as your departure date approaches. Local and global events such as the World Cup or Olympics can also push prices up and reduce availability around certain dates, which may make booking earlier the better option. If you choose to wait for your visa before booking, monitor prices in advance so you're ready to book as soon as your visa is approved.
Booking early can help you secure a better price and take one thing off your pre-departure list. If you decide to book before your visa is approved, follow these guidelines to protect yourself in case your visa is delayed or refused:
Booking a fully flexible or free-to-cancel fare, which most airlines offer at a higher cost
Booking a fare with low change fees so you can adjust dates if your visa is delayed
Avoiding non-refundable, non-changeable flights
Whichever path you choose, the Camp Leaders team is here to help. Contact them before booking if you're unsure.
What if I can't arrive by my official start date?
Do not book a flight that would have you arriving after the official arrival date on your placement. Arriving after this date may result in being denied entry to the United States, as your DS-2019 form specifies your authorized start date.
If you know you'll be arriving after your official start date, contact the Camp Leaders team immediately. Your DS-2019 dates must be updated and your revised arrival date approved by your camp before any flights are booked.
What if Camp Leaders is arranging my flights?
In a small number of countries, flights are arranged by Camp Leaders for first-time participants. If this applies to you, the cost is built into your program fee and your pocket money will reflect this. You will need to complete a flight request through your profile, which involves selecting your departure airport, preferred return date, and return airport. You can also add any special requests.
Your fees must be paid in full before Camp Leaders can book your flights. Once your request is submitted, the flight team will book based on departure date. Please be patient as your flight may be booked as late as 14 days before your departure. Once booked, your flight details will appear in the travel and flights section of your profile.
You can choose which airport to return from. New York City is the most popular option and can usually be arranged at no extra charge. If you already know your travel plans, you can request a different return airport, though this is subject to availability and surcharges may apply.
What airports do I fly into?
The airport you fly into depends on where your camp is located. Your onward travel information in your Camp Leaders profile will specify which airport to arrive at and how to get to camp from there.
How do connecting flights work?
If you have a connecting flight outside of the United States, your luggage will usually transfer automatically to your next flight. You do not need to collect it.
For any flights connecting within the United States, you will need to collect your luggage at the first US airport, pass through customs and immigration, and then re-check your luggage for your next flight. Follow the signs for connecting flights.
Can I change my flights?
If Camp Leaders booked your flights, you can request changes through the travel and flights section of your profile. Date changes are permitted, but changing your departure city requires airline approval. Any changes are subject to a fee set by the airline.
Changes to the return leg of your flight need to be made while you are in the US, at least 72 hours before your departure date.
If you booked your own flights, contact your airline or travel provider directly.
What does it cost to change a flight?
Flight change fees depend on the airline and the new travel date. The fee is set by the airline, not by Camp Leaders. Check the travel section of your profile for more information.
What if my flight is delayed?
If your flight is significantly delayed at your home airport, contact your local Camp Leaders office and let them know. They will follow up and coordinate with the US team, so by the time you arrive in America, your onward travel will be updated.
If your connecting flight is delayed within the US, call the Camp Leaders US helpline. Camps also keep an eye on your flight status and most likely already know about the delay.
What if I miss my connecting flight?
Go to the airline's customer service desk at the airport, even if Camp Leaders booked your flights. Only the airline can rebook your flight or offer alternative options. Let Camp Leaders know about any changes as well.
If a cancelled or missed connection requires an overnight stay, US airports do not allow passengers to sleep in the terminal. Check with your airline about hotel vouchers. If none are available, contact Camp Leaders for help.
Should I bring cash?
It is a good idea to have some cash and a credit or debit card with you when you arrive in the US. You may need to take a bus or train to camp, or your card might not work immediately when you arrive. Having some cash on hand gives you a safety net for emergencies and those first hours in the country.