10 Best Surprise Vacation Companies in 2024

10 Best Surprise Vacation Companies for 2024

The year is 2024 and it is time for you to find an awesome surprise vacation company! Below is a list of ten amazing surprise vacation companies, with many offering mystery trips, starting with yours truly Competitours.com:

1. Competitours

Year Founded: 2009
Destinations: Europe (including France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Switzerland)
Additional Info: Competitours offers a unique "Amazing Race"-style adventure with challenges in different cities. Travelers don’t know where they are going or what activities are planned until the trip begins. The trips focus on team-building, problem-solving, and fun competitions.
Price Range: $4,295 per person for a 10-day adventure (excluding airfare).
Social Media: Instagram

2. Pack Up + Go

Year Founded: 2016
Destinations: USA (including New Orleans, Charleston, Denver, and smaller hidden gems)
Additional Info: Pack Up + Go specializes in domestic surprise trips within the U.S. Based on traveler preferences, they plan 3-day getaways that could be via road trip, plane, or train. The company handles all the logistics and sends travelers to a destination they won’t find out about until the last minute!
Price Range: Starts at $400 for road trips, $650 for plane trips (per person).
Social Media: Instagram

3. The Vacation Hunt

Year Founded: 2017
Destinations: Worldwide (including cities like Paris, Tokyo, and Cape Town)
Additional Info: The Vacation Hunt specializes in fully planned surprise trips that cater to all types of travelers. You choose your budget, and they handle the details, with travelers discovering their destination just a few days before departure. They offer both domestic and international trips.
Price Range: $1,200 - $5,000+ (depends on trip length and destination)
Social Media: Instagram

4. Journee

Year Founded: 2019
Destinations: Europe (London, Amsterdam, Lisbon, Copenhagen, etc.)
Additional Info: Journee plans surprise trips with a focus on personalized travel experiences in Europe. They work closely with you to understand your preferences and style to craft a vacation tailored to your taste but with an element of surprise. Journee is known for adding unique experiences like private tours, tastings, and more!
Price Range: £750 - £2,000 per person.
Social Media: Instagram

5. Whisked Away Surprise Travel

Year Founded: 2018
Destinations: Worldwide (US, Europe, Asia, etc.)
Additional Info: Whisked Away focuses on creating completely customized surprise trips, whether it’s a romantic getaway, solo adventure, or family vacation. They tailor the trip to your preferences, but keep the location hidden until the last minute. Whisked Away also offers the ability to surprise a loved one with a trip reveal!
Price Range: $1,500 - $6,000 per person.
Social Media: Instagram

6. Magical Mystery Tours

Year Founded: 2010
Destinations: Worldwide (including Europe, Asia, South America, and the U.S.)
Additional Info: Magical Mystery Tours provides customized surprise vacations based on traveler preferences such as weather, activities, and budget. They handle all the planning while keeping the destination secret until it's time to go. They also offer honeymoon and group travel options.
Price Range: $900 - $5,000 per person (depending on destination and trip length).
Social Media: Instagram

7. Wonderlust

Year Founded: 2017
Destinations: Europe and North America (including places like Italy, Canada, and Spain)
Additional Info: Wonderlust curates surprise vacation packages designed for solo travelers, couples, or groups. Their trips often feature cultural experiences, off-the-beaten-path locations, and sustainable travel practices. They work closely with local guides to enhance the mystery vacation experience!!
Price Range: Starts at $2,000 per person.
Resources:Trip Advisor

8. Surprise Me Trips

Year Founded: 2019
Destinations: Europe, North America (including Iceland, Greece, Portugal, and the U.S.)
Additional Info: Surprise Me Trips offers personalized travel experiences where you don’t know your destination until the day you travel. They focus on unique experiences, such as hidden gems and local cultures. They also offer "special occasion" trips for birthdays, anniversaries, and honeymoons.
Price Range: $800 - $4,000 per person.
Social Media: Instagram

9. Wanderjack

Year Founded: 2016
Destinations: Europe (Italy, Portugal, Spain, Croatia)
Additional Info: Wanderjack specializes in surprise vacations that revolve around authentic and immersive cultural experiences in Europe. Their trips are made to allow travelers to explore local lifestyles, food, and traditions. They emphasize sustainable travel and often include unique activities like cooking classes, wine tasting, and hiking!
Price Range: €1,000 - €3,500 per person.
Social Media:Trip Advisor

10. Blind Experiences

Year Founded: 2015
Destinations: Worldwide (including places like Sri Lanka, Morocco, and Argentina)
Additional Info: Blind Experiences offers ultra-luxurious surprise trips to exotic and remote destinations. This high-end service includes curated, tailor-made experiences such as yacht trips, hot air balloon rides, and private tours. Perfect for honeymooners or those seeking an extraordinary travel experience.
Price Range: Starts at €3,000 per person.
Social Media: Instagram

These companies all provide mystery vacations with different levels of customization and price ranges to suit various travel styles.

The Ultimate FAQ Guide for Surprise Vacation Companies

1. What is a surprise vacation company?

A surprise vacation company plans and organizes trips for travelers, but the destination and details are kept secret until right before departure or during the journey. These surprise vacation companies tailor the trip based on the traveler's preferences, including budget, activities, and travel style, while maintaining an element of surprise.

2. How does the process work?

Typically, you fill out a questionnaire detailing your interests, preferences, budget, and any restrictions (like travel dates or destinations you want to avoid). The company then curates a trip that suits your criteria but keeps the destination and itinerary a secret until shortly before or on the day of your departure.

3. How much does a surprise vacation cost?

Prices for surprise vacations vary widely depending on the company, destination, and trip length. Budget trips can start around $400 per person, while more luxurious or international trips can range from $1,500 to over $6,000 per person. Costs usually include accommodation, some activities, and sometimes meals but typically exclude airfare unless specified.

4. What information do I get in advance?

You usually receive a weather forecast, packing list, and departure details (like whether it’s a road trip, flight, or train) to ensure you're prepared. Some companies provide hints or clues about the destination before the trip, but the actual location is revealed last minute.

5. Can I specify certain preferences?

Yes. Most surprise vacation companies ask for your input on various factors, including:

Destination types (e.g., beach, mountains, cities)
Activity preferences (e.g., relaxation, adventure, culture)
Food restrictions or dietary preferences
Travel style (e.g., luxury vs. budget)
Health or accessibility needs

6. What happens if I don’t like the destination?

Since the trip is tailored to your preferences, companies generally aim to select destinations that match your travel style and interests. However, flexibility and a sense of adventure are key aspects of enjoying a surprise trip. If you have specific locations or experiences you want to avoid, you can usually communicate that ahead of time.

7. Are flights included?

This depends on the company. Some surprise vacation companies include airfare in the package, while others focus on accommodation, transportation, and activities but require you to book your own flights. Be sure to check the specifics of the package you select.

8. How do I know what to pack?

Before your departure, most companies will provide a packing list based on the weather forecast and activities they have planned for you. You may not know the destination, but you’ll be given enough information to pack appropriately for your trip.

9. Is it safe to travel without knowing the destination?

Yes, surprise vacation companies prioritize safety. They plan trips to popular, safe destinations and make all necessary arrangements (accommodation, transportation, etc.) to ensure a smooth experience. You’ll also be provided with emergency contact information and support in case you need assistance while traveling.

10. Can I travel internationally on a surprise vacation?

Yes, many companies offer both domestic and international surprise vacations. However, if international travel is an option, you may need to provide your passport information and confirm your ability to travel abroad. Some companies focus exclusively on domestic trips, while others offer global itineraries.

11. Can I book a surprise vacation for a special occasion (e.g., birthday or honeymoon)?

Yes, many companies offer special occasion packages where the trip is designed around a milestone such as a birthday, anniversary, or honeymoon. These trips often include personalized touches, special activities, or more luxurious accommodations to make the experience extra memorable.

12. Are meals included?

This varies by company and package. Some surprise vacation packages include meals, especially breakfast or pre-arranged dinners. However, in many cases, meals are not included, allowing travelers to explore local dining options on their own.

13. What happens if there’s a travel disruption (e.g., flight cancellations, bad weather)?

Reputable surprise vacation companies have contingency plans in place for travel disruptions, such as flight cancellations or weather issues. They work to resolve problems quickly and may alter the itinerary if necessary. You are typically provided with a point of contact in case of any issues during your trip.

14. Can I cancel or reschedule a surprise vacation?

Cancellation and rescheduling policies vary between companies. Some offer flexible cancellation policies with a refund or credit, while others may have stricter terms. Be sure to review the cancellation policy before booking.

15. How far in advance should I book a surprise vacation?

It’s best to book a surprise vacation at least 1-3 months in advance to allow the company ample time to plan your trip. However, some companies offer last-minute options, and others may require even more lead time depending on the complexity of the trip and time of year.

16. What types of activities are included?

Activities vary based on the destination and your preferences. Common activities include sightseeing, cultural tours, hiking, cooking classes, and adventure sports. You can specify your activity preferences in the initial questionnaire, and the company will plan accordingly.

17. Can I bring my family or friends?

Yes, surprise vacation companies offer packages for families, couples, and groups. If traveling with a group, you’ll likely have the option to customize the trip to suit everyone’s preferences.

18. What if I have dietary restrictions or other special needs?

Most companies accommodate dietary restrictions and special needs. You can provide this information in the initial questionnaire, and the company will work to ensure your trip is enjoyable and safe.

19. Are these trips good for solo travelers?

Yes, many surprise vacation companies offer packages specifically designed for solo travelers. They often focus on safe, friendly destinations with activities that can be enjoyed independently or with other travelers.

20. Can I specify a maximum budget?

Yes, you can set a budget when booking. The company will plan your trip based on the budget you provide, and the pricing often includes accommodation, some activities, and possibly transportation. Always verify which costs are covered in your package to avoid surprises.

A surprise vacation is ideal for those who enjoy spontaneity and adventure, with the reassurance that the logistics are handled for you!