BIP Tour Info Pack Key Points

Teams are given Info Packs a few weeks prior to tour. These packs include both important logistical information and interesting information on the cities we visit. It is imperative that these packets are shared with all participants, and that they are read and understood. To highlight key points or items that are more relevant in this new era of travel, some of the most important things to know and remember are outlined here:

Flexibility: Remember that BIP tours are based around the matches, and this means that we need to be prepared for last-minute changes, or even cancelations. Players and staff won’t receive minute-by-minute itineraries and need to be prepared to adapt.
Uniforms: We ask that all teams play all matches in uniforms, even if that means a numbered t-shirt and matching shorts. Sometimes the host team will be less formally dressed, or an assistant coach is the match’s informal referee, but all tour teams need to prepare for each match as a “uniformed match”.
Laundry: Laundry services are never included (except for teams spending 3 nights in Maribor, Slovenia) so teams need to know that everyone (even Top Power 5 Schools) does uniform laundry in their sinks.
Drinking Water: Bottled water is only provided on tours outside of Europe. In Europe, most tap water is drinkable, so having a water bottle is necessary, especially for matches. Note that ice is often hard to come by, so athletes used to getting ice after training or matches need to be prepared for this. Trainers should have breakable “ice packs” for injuries as well.
Air Conditioning: Most hotels that we use have air conditioning, especially in the summer, but sometimes it’s not as strong as what we’re used to in the USA. We will do what we can to mitigate this, but everyone should remember that we are not in Marriott Hotels in the USA; we’re in Europe.
Pick-Pockets: In big busy cities, especially on crowded trains, buses, and bridges (Venice) pick-pockets continue to be a problem. Be very careful with your belongings; no items in your back pocket, backpacks & purses in front of you, and never hang anything on a café chair or have your phone on the table where it can be grabbed.
Baggage: Travelers should have a single checked bag of less than 50 pounds and a small carry-on and backpack. It’s important not to overpack due to luggage space on buses and trains. Players should have a pair of shoes and uniform in their carry-on, as well as important personal items for 1-2 days since there are more lost and delayed bags these days than ever. Put all medications and prescriptions in your carry-on, it is difficult to get the same medications in foreign countries. Be prepared to potentially be the person waiting 2-3 days for your bag.
Walking & Public Transportation: There is a lot more walking and use of metros, trams, and city buses on tour than most Americans are used to. Be ready. And please read the “Walking & Public Transportation” page in the info packet.
Passport: Make sure your passport does not expire for at least 6 months, you will not be able to travel if it expires in 6 months from your return. Make a copy of the inside cover of your passport and keep it in a separate location. This is helpful if you lose your passport.
Money: The best way to get local cash is with an ATM card. Your credit card will be accepted just about everywhere as well. The main new thing to know is that many card machines and ATM machines now offer to “convert” your charge directly into dollars. You want to decline this “service” as the rates are usurious. Always choose “local currency”.
Electrical Items: You generally just need a small adapter as your iPhone or Computer charger has the converter built in. Heat tools such as hair straighteners or curlers will break due to the electrical voltage differences. You need a converter if you are bringing heat tools, otherwise, leave them at home.
Personal Items, Favorite Snacks, a Water Bottle, a small towel, and any needed medications (with a copy of the prescription) are all covered in the “Team Checklist” section of your packet. Please ensure that this is read.