We have taken several Backroads trips in different parts of the world and we are often asked “Is Backroads worth it?”. If you are looking to book an active vacation in a great location, using a reputable tour organizer is highly advised. Backroads, a prominent name in the active travel industry, offers a variety of biking, hiking, and multi-adventure trips worldwide. But their trips are expensive and we are often asked “Is Backroads worth the investment?”. This comprehensive review examines customer experiences, employee insights, and overall value to help you decide.
Overview of Backroads
Founded in 1979, Backroads specializes in active travel experiences, including biking, hiking, and multi-adventure tours across the globe. Between us here at Well Traveled Men we have taken Backroads trips in France, Germany, Italy and Japan and everyone has been thoroughly enjoyable. The company emphasizes immersive cultural experiences, high-quality accommodations, and exceptional customer service.
Positive Customer Feedback
Exceptional Trip Leaders: Many travelers praise Backroads for its knowledgeable and attentive trip leaders. A guest review states, “Taking a Backroads trip is like enjoying the sweetest part of the watermelon; the planners and trip leaders trim away everything but the sweetest core of the trip.”
High-Quality Accommodations and Dining: Customers often highlight the premium accommodations and dining experiences. One traveler noted, “The food is really good and the scenery magnificent.”
Well-Organized Itineraries: Backroads is commended for its meticulously planned itineraries that balance activity and relaxation. A reviewer mentioned, “The job is demanding, and you need to be organized, quick-thinking, and adaptable.”
Personalized Experiences: The company’s commitment to personalized service is frequently mentioned. A guest shared, “Backroads is our favorite way to travel as a family. It is so nice to be able to just show up.”
Diverse Activity Levels: Backroads offers various activity levels to cater to different fitness levels, ensuring inclusivity. A traveler appreciated, “There are always some strong riders on a Backroads trip, so you’ll have company if you are planning on doing the supplemental longer routes.”
Negative Customer Feedback
High Cost: Some travelers feel that Backroads’ trips are expensive. A reviewer stated, “Backroads overpacks their trips and really gives you little for the price.”
Inconsistent Guide Quality: While many praise the trip leaders, some have encountered less knowledgeable guides. A traveler mentioned, “The guides needed us to translate for them, and their knowledge of local culture was limited.”
Overpacked Itineraries: A few customers feel that the itineraries are too packed, leaving little time for relaxation. A reviewer noted, “Backroads overpacks their trips and really gives you little for the price.”
Average Food and Wine: Some guests expected higher quality dining experiences. A traveler shared, “The wines were cheap, the food average, the guides average.” We have to say that on the trips that we have taken, the food and dining experiences have been outstanding, but we do understand that people have diverse tastes and it is hard to please everyone.
Accommodation Issues: There have been occasional complaints about accommodations not meeting expectations. A reviewer mentioned, “We had a problem on the trip with the accommodations and their reply…’It happens.'”. Again, our experiences have been very good, always coming away feeling that we have stayed in some unique and quality places.
Employee Insights
Employee reviews provide additional context to Backroads’ operations. On Glassdoor, Backroads has an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars, based on 240 reviews, indicating a generally positive work environment. Trip Leader employees have rated Backroads with 3.7 out of 5 stars, based on 155 reviews, suggesting that most Trip Leader professionals have a good working experience there and when the Trip Leaders are happy, their guests are happy!
Is Backroads Worth It?
Backroads offers high-quality, active travel experiences with well-organized itineraries and exceptional trip leaders. However, the premium pricing and occasional inconsistencies in guide quality and accommodations are considerations. If you value immersive cultural experiences, diverse activity levels, and personalized service, Backroads may be worth the investment. It’s advisable to review specific trip details and customer feedback to ensure alignment with your travel preferences.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re exploring other options, consider these tour operators:
- REI Adventures: Offers a variety of active travel experiences with a focus on outdoor adventures.
- Butterfield & Robinson: Specializes in luxury biking and walking tours with a focus on unique experiences.
- VBT Bicycling Vacations: Provides biking and walking tours with a balance of activity and relaxation.
- Country Walkers: Offers walking adventures with a focus on cultural immersion and local experiences.
Conclusion
Is Backroads worth it? Backroads has established itself as a leader in active travel, offering diverse and immersive experiences. While the cost is higher than some competitors, many travelers find the quality of service and unique itineraries justify the investment. Assess your travel goals, budget, and desired experience to determine if Backroads aligns with your expectations.
