Get in touch with the Heelman team and start the journey.
Booking a spot with Heelman is a straightforward process. First, fill out the contact form on this page with your details, including your child's age and any specific outdoor experience they might have. Our team, led by Chuanwei Liu, will review your inquiry and get back to you within 24-48 business hours to schedule a preliminary consultation call. During this call, we will discuss the best program fit for your child, go over the dates, and explain the pricing structure. Once you decide to proceed, we will send you a secure digital enrollment packet that includes medical release forms, liability waivers, and the initial deposit invoice. Please note that spots are highly competitive and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. We strongly recommend reaching out at least six months prior to the desired departure date.
All children traveling with Heelman must have a valid United States passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the planned date of return from Australia. Additionally, US citizens require an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or an eVisitor visa to enter Australia. Heelman provides comprehensive assistance with the visa application process. Once your child is enrolled, our administrative team will supply you with step-by-step instructions on how to apply for the ETA online, which is typically a quick and inexpensive process. We will also require notarized consent forms from both parents or legal guardians authorizing the child to travel internationally with our staff, in accordance with US and Australian border control regulations.
Safety is the absolute cornerstone of the Heelman experience. Every single one of our lead guides is a certified Wilderness First Responder (WFR), which is a rigorous medical certification specifically designed for remote environments where definitive medical care is hours away. We maintain a strict, low student-to-guide ratio to ensure constant supervision. Our base camps and expedition teams are equipped with comprehensive trauma kits, satellite phones, and emergency locator beacons (PLBs). Before departure, we collect detailed medical histories for every child, including allergies and required medications. In the event of an emergency, we have established evacuation protocols with Australian emergency services, including aeromedical rescue if necessary. We also monitor weather and fire danger ratings continuously, altering itineraries proactively to avoid hazardous conditions.
Packing correctly is vital for comfort and safety. Upon enrollment, you will receive the official Heelman Gear Guide, which details every required and recommended item. Generally, the focus is on lightweight, moisture-wicking, and UPF-rated clothing. Essential items include a high-quality, properly fitted hiking backpack, sturdy and broken-in waterproof hiking boots, a lightweight sleeping bag rated for appropriate temperatures, and a waterproof shell jacket. Because Australia's sun is incredibly strong, wide-brimmed hats, polarized sunglasses, and bulk supplies of broad-spectrum sunscreen are mandatory. We discourage bringing unnecessary electronics; our goal is to disconnect. Heelman provides all group gear, including tents, cooking equipment, water purification systems, and specialized safety gear like climbing harnesses or snorkeling equipment.
We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, making it necessary to cancel a trip. Our cancellation policy is designed to be as fair as possible while covering the significant upfront costs required to secure permits, accommodations, and staffing in Australia. The initial deposit is non-refundable. Cancellations made 90 days or more before the departure date will receive a 50% refund of the remaining balance paid. Cancellations made between 31 and 89 days prior to departure will receive a 25% refund of the remaining balance. Unfortunately, no refunds can be issued for cancellations made 30 days or less before departure. We strongly advise all participating families to purchase comprehensive 'Cancel for Any Reason' (CFAR) travel insurance immediately upon booking, which can protect your investment in case of illness, family emergencies, or other unexpected events.
Our team usually responds within 24 hours. Let us know how we can help plan your child's next big adventure.