As airlines and tour operators continue grappling with rising costs, Intrepid Travel is taking a different approach for 2026: no added surcharges on booked trips.
The adventure travel company confirmed it will not introduce additional fees on existing or new bookings this year, positioning the move as part of a broader focus on pricing transparency and traveller confidence.
For 2026, customers who book will pay the advertised price, with no added fees linked to fuel, currency or operational pressures across eligible tours.
The commitment applies to Intrepid’s tour and flight-inclusive packages, excluding Polar expeditions and Tailor-Made trips.
While some operators continue reviewing surcharge options, Intrepid says it plans to absorb increased costs wherever possible rather than pass them on to customers after booking.
“Travel should feel exciting, not uncertain,” Intrepid Australia-New Zealand managing director Brett Mitchell said.
“We know confidence matters when booking a trip, and that starts with clarity on price. Our focus is on delivering incredible, locally led experiences without unexpected add-ons or last-minute increases.”
Intrepid also highlighted its flexible booking conditions, including low deposits, staged payments and clear cancellation policies.
“At its core, this is about doing right by our customers,” Mitchell added.
“We believe in being upfront, standing by our pricing, and giving travellers the confidence to book their next adventure.”
International flights booked independently remain subject to airline pricing and surcharge policies.
Full booking conditions are here.
This week, Intrepid Travel revealed the winner of its ‘Golden Gap Year’ consumer competition, geared to reward one over-55s Australian with 12 months of trips to take a long-awaited midlife do-over.
KARRYON UNPACKS: In a market where travellers are increasingly wary of surprise costs, pricing certainty has quietly become a major selling tool. For travel advisors, that confidence can be just as valuable as the itinerary itself.
