Best Group Travel Companies for 18–20-Somethings: Fun, Affordable & Social Adventures for Young Travelers

Quick Take

• The best group travel companies for 18–20-something year olds combine fun, affordability and a friendly social vibe.

• Popular picks include Contiki, Topdeck, EF Ultimate Break, TruTravels, and Intrepid.

• Whether you want nightlife, adventure or meaningful cultural experiences, there’s a perfect style for you.

• Looking for something older? Skip to the end for the ideal 30–49 / 45–59 alternative.

Why Group Travel Works So Well in Your Late Teens & Twenties

Group travel takes the pressure off planning and gives you an instant circle of friends, which is ideal when you’re traveling solo or heading abroad for the first time. Young-adult group trips are typically social, budget-conscious and built around unforgettable shared experiences.

What to Look for in a Group Travel Company (18–29 Age Range)

• Age range fit: Look for 18–35 or 18–29 groups for the best social match.

• Budget: Many companies offer affordable accommodation + payment plans.

• Social energy: Some brands lean party; others focus on culture or adventure.

• Pace: Do you want fast city-hopping or slower immersive travel?

• Safety & support: Key for first-time international travelers.

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⭐ Best Group Travel Companies for 18–20-Something Travelers

1. Contiki — The Classic 18–35 Social Travel Brand

Contiki: https://www.contiki.com/

Contiki is the go-to name for group travel in your late teens and twenties. It’s high-energy, social and packed with iconic destinations.

Why it’s great for young travelers:

• Age range: 18–35

• Big social scene

• Fast-paced itineraries

• Affordable and well-organised

Best for: Travelers who want sightseeing + nightlife + new friends.

2. Topdeck — Social, Affordable & Big on Adventure

Topdeck: https://www.topdeck.travel/

Topdeck is similar to Contiki but slightly more adventure-oriented and not quite as party-heavy.

Why it’s great for 18–29s:

• Competitive pricing

• Young, friendly groups

• Balanced itineraries across Europe, Asia & Oceania

• Very solo-friendly

Best for: Adventure-loving young adults who still enjoy a bit of nightlife.

3. EF Ultimate Break — Perfect for First-Time Solo Travelers

EF Ultimate Break: https://www.efultimatebreak.com/

A great pick for students or first-time travelers who want structure, safety and easy payment options.

Why 20-somethings love it:

• Payment plans

• Social and welcoming vibe

• Everything organised for you

• Big range of beginner-friendly destinations

Best for: Nervous first-timers + students wanting travel made simple.

4. TruTravels — Social Small-Group Adventures for Young Backpackers

TruTravels: https://www.trutravels.com/

A lesser-known gem in the youth travel space, TruTravels offers fun, boutique-style backpacker trips with a strong community vibe. It’s aimed at 18–30-year-olds who want authentic experiences, beach time, and a social group without the “party tour” feel.

Why it’s great for 18–20-somethings:

• Age range: 18–30

• Small groups that feel friendly and personal

• Destinations include Thailand, Bali, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Vietnam

• Mix of adventure, culture, beaches and chill time

• Known for relaxed, community-focused itineraries

Best for: Young travelers wanting a fun, social trip without nonstop partying — ideal for beach lovers and backpacker-style explorers.

5. Intrepid Travel (18–29s) — Responsible, Immersive Small-Group Adventures

Intrepid 18–29: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-styles/18-to-29s

Intrepid’s 18–29 range is ideal for thoughtful young travelers who want real cultural immersion and sustainable travel.

Why younger travelers enjoy it:

• Age range: 18–29

• Small groups

• Expert local leaders

• Focus on ethical, community-based experiences

Best for: Curious 20-somethings who want meaningful travel over partying.

Comparison Table: Best Group Travel for Young Adults

Company	Age Range	Vibe	Best For
Contiki	18–35	Social, high-energy	Party + sightseeing
Topdeck	18–30	Fun + friendly	Balanced adventure
EF Ultimate Break	18–29	Approachable + supportive	First-time travelers
TruTravels	18–30	Social + beachy	Backpacker-style fun
Intrepid	18–29	Immersive + ethical	Thoughtful travelers

Choosing the Right Trip for Your Vibe

• Want nightlife + big energy? → Contiki

• Want adventure + chill balance? → Topdeck

• Want safe & social first-time travel? → EF Ultimate Break

• Want beaches + backpacker vibes? → TruTravels

• Want meaningful cultural immersion? → Intrepid

🌟 Looking for Something Older (More Premium)?

If you’re turning 30 or want more comfort, boutique hotels and a deeper cultural vibe, check out Flash Pack — the top choice for stylish solo travelers.

Flash Pack offers small-group adventures for two age ranges:

• 30–49

• 45–59

Perfect for travelers who want incredible experiences, beautiful stays and a like-minded group.

Explore Flash Pack here:https://www.flashpack.com/us/solo