Every holiday season, someone asks the same question: “What do you want for Christmas?”
And every year, the answer gets a little harder. Another sweatshirt? A new pair of sneakers? A gift card that will probably disappear into a drawer?
But what if this year’s gift was a little different?
For students heading to Washington, DC, New York City, Orlando, or somewhere even abroad this spring, a contribution toward their trip could be the perfect gift. Instead of another thing to unwrap, they’re getting closer to an experience they’ll remember for years.
And for teachers and group leaders trying to help families make these trips affordable, the holidays offer a great opportunity to get creative.
Make Holiday Giving Simple With ETA’s Student Fundraising Links
Every student traveling with Educational Travel Adventures gets their own personalized fundraising link, making it easy for family and friends to contribute toward their trip.
Instead of another sweater or gift card, grandparents, relatives, and friends can give something more meaningful: a contribution toward an unforgettable travel experience.
Students can share their fundraising link through text, email, or social media. Family and friends can donate directly through the link, and contributions go toward the student’s trip balance. No collecting cash, tracking donations, or managing payments.
Holiday Travel Tip: Encourage students to include their personal fundraising link on their holiday wish lists or share it with relatives who ask what they’d like for Christmas.
A little help can go a long way
Not every family member can contribute hundreds of dollars toward a trip. That’s okay!
A $25 gift from an aunt, $50 from a grandparent, or a little something from a family friend can start to add up. For students with several people asking what they’d like for the holidays, those contributions could make a real difference.
Students might even enjoy sharing what they’re most excited about: seeing their first Broadway show, performing with their band, visiting the Smithsonian, or boarding an airplane for the very first time.
It’s a lot more personal than asking for money. They’re inviting someone to be part of an experience that matters to them.
Make it easy for families to spread the word
Teachers and group leaders, this is where you come in.
A quick reminder to families before the holiday shopping season gets underway could be all it takes to plant the idea.
You don’t need to organize a major fundraiser or add another project to your already full calendar. Just let parents know that contributions toward the trip make wonderful holiday gifts.
Here are a few ideas students and families can try:
- Create a travel wish list. Instead of asking for traditional gifts, students can let relatives know they’re saving for their upcoming trip.
- Send a personal note. A short message explaining where they’re going and what they’re excited to experience can make a gift feel more meaningful.
- Set a small holiday goal. Whether it’s $100 or $300, having a specific amount in mind can make fundraising feel more manageable.
- Make the gift fun to give. Families can wrap a photo of the destination, a homemade boarding pass, or a little travel-themed card to represent the contribution.
And remember, families should use their group’s approved payment or fundraising process to make sure contributions are credited correctly.
Here’s a message you can share with parents
Feel free to copy, personalize, and send this along:
“With the holidays coming up, here’s a little idea for families with students traveling this spring! If grandparents, relatives, or family friends are looking for gift ideas, consider asking them to contribute toward your child’s upcoming trip. Even small amounts can add up, and it’s a wonderful way to help give an experience they’ll remember long after the holidays.
Instead of another gift card, how about a little help getting to [DESTINATION]?”
Don’t forget the other fundraising opportunities
Holiday contributions are just one piece of the puzzle!
If your group is traveling this spring, now is also a great time to revisit your fundraising plans. Local businesses, community organizations, school events, and other creative activities can all help students get closer to their travel goals.
Not sure where to start? ETA’s guide on how to fundraise for a school trip offers practical ideas and tips to help teachers and group leaders make student travel more affordable.
And if you haven’t already, ask your ETA Trip Planner about available scholarship opportunities for your group.
The gift they’ll remember
A few years from now, students probably won’t remember every present they opened this holiday season.
But they will definitely remember the first time they saw the New York City skyline. The excitement of performing somewhere new. The moment they stood in a place they’d only read about.
And maybe they’ll remember that Grandma helped make it happen.
This holiday season, give them something to look forward to.
Explore ETA’s teacher resources for more ways to help make student travel possible.
