What’s the average age of people taking part?

People of all ages sign up to take part in our challenge events, ranging from 18 to 70. We welcome people from 16 years old if accompanied by a parent or guardian.

How fit and healthy do I need to be?

You don’t need to be super fit, but proper training and taking the challenge seriously is paramount to your enjoyment and completion of the challenge. We ask all participants to complete a medical form, which may have to be signed by your doctor depending on the trip you are undertaking and whether you have any pre-existing medical conditions. 

Will I be able to keep up with everyone?

None of our events are a race. The aim is for everyone to complete the challenge and to go at their own pace. There will be regular breaks and rest stops. On bike rides we have back up vehicles and on some treks we have mules or ponies if you are unable to continue or need a rest. It is your responsibility to make sure you are as fit as possible prior to the departure of the trip. The fitter you are the more you will enjoy it.

What’s normally included on the challenge?

This varies from event to event. Typically, flights and in country transfers, shared accommodation in hotels and/or tents, camping equipment (excluding camping mat and sleeping bag), full board (apart from on previously indicated free days), water whilst on bike/trek, an experienced tour leader and guides and transfer of luggage. 

What won’t be included on the challenge?

This varies from event to event. Typically, vaccinations, travel insurance, visas, airport taxes, gratuities, optional tours, personal expenses and of course your registration fee and sponsorship money. 

What kind of back up will there be?

We have a strong support team on each event. There will be full medical back up, leaders and guides (plus mechanics on bike events) and where practical we have vehicle back up. The support team members usually carry radios and a satellite phone in case of emergencies. 

What type of accommodation will we use?

Depending on the destination and group size we typically use a good standard of hotels, hostels and camping. The rooms are usually twin or multi-share. Sometimes the accommodation will be basic but this is all part of the challenge! 

What’s the food like?

The food will be tasty and plentiful. We can cater for any specific dietary requirements on our trips, however on the whole food will be good quality local dishes. Food will be high in carbohydrates in order to provide you with energy for your challenge. We recommend that you take some snacks/sweets for during the day particularly if there is something that you can’t live without! 

Do I need any specialist kit?

This depends on the trek that you are undertaking. Either the charity or UTC will provide you with a comprehensive kit list. If you are trekking, the only specialist kit you will need is a pair of well worn in walking boots, some waterproofs and usually a sleeping bag. If you are cycling you will need a helmet, padded cycling shorts and gloves. 

Will I have to carry my own kit?

No. On all of our trips your main luggage will be transported from camp to camp in a support vehicle, by porters or by mules. During the day you will carry your day pack which will contain your waterproofs, sun cream, camera, water and personal first aid kit. 

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, you must have adequate travel insurance in order to take part in all events. In your event pack we will provide you with details of the level of insurance required for your specific event. UTC recommend Snowcard - www.snowcard.co.uk and Preferential - www.preferential.co.uk (not suitable if trekking above 4000m) for travel insurance.

What if people think my challenge is a holiday?

None of the challenges we organise should be considered a holiday. To participate, you will need to commit yourself to several months of training and fundraising and the money you raise will make a significant difference to the charity you are supporting.

On the actual event you will undertake a physically demanding and often mental challenge. The facilities will often be basic but you'll visit parts of the world you may never have dreamed of going to, sometimes in extreme temperatures and at high altitude.

All these things take commitment, time and effort and are definitely not to be considered a holiday. 

Can I extend my trip after the event?

Yes it is possible to extend your trip after the event. The cost of extending your flight is £95 per person and is strictly subject to availability and airline rules. You should contact UTC if you would like to do this.

How much sponsorship do I have to raise and how much will go to charity?

This depends on your chosen trip and charity. As with any fundraising events there are some costs involved and these include your flight, ground and accommodation costs. Your chosen charity will set you a minimum sponsorship target taking into account these costs. Usually at least 50% of your minimum sponsorship will be retained by the charity. 

I want to take part in an Open Challenge, which charity can I support?

If you are taking part in an Open Challenge then you are able to support any registered charity of your choice.