![“Tanning exposes your skin to [ultraviolet (UV)] light, and UV light is a known carcinogen, which means it can alter your DNA,” Biotechnology and biology teacher Gillian Boyd said. “It can change the sequences of DNA bases. The more exposure you have, the more risk you have to develop [skin] cancer.”](https://smhsponyexpress.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_0071-1200x798.jpeg)
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With summer on the horizon, most students, especially upperclassmen, are more than excited for a few months of summer travel. From European vacations to senior trips with friends, the summer after high school graduation offers an opportunity for students to travel with or without their family. The excitement of trips without parents or guardians sparks a sense of independence for many seniors. Even for students who may have traveled with their parents, traveling alone or with friends is a different story.
While traveling as a young adult can be unsafe, there are many things one can do to have a safe and enjoyable experience. It is important to understand the social and cultural norms of the country one is visiting. While some countries may have similar customs to the United States, others may not. Understanding the slight differences when going out to dinner, tipping amounts, and safety in specific areas in cities can allow travelers to feel more confident.
When traveling to experience nature, many look to backpacking. Backpacking can be easier for students because many parks and trails do not require 18 or 21-plus identification proof. Unlike hotels or flights, it is relatively inexpensive and accessible. However, backpacking requires travelers to have proper equipment and knowledge to spend the night in remote areas.
San Marin High School senior Parker King backpacked more than 30 miles on the Northwestern Pacific Railroad over spring break.
“I went backpacking in Humboldt County along the Eel River with one friend,” King said. “I have done lots of solo trips with friends and I have been backpacking many times.”
King has always enjoyed the outdoors, but specifically loves how backpacking allows the traveler to be removed from chaotic urban environments. When going on longer trips, lists are helpful.
“To prepare for the trips I make lists so I don’t forget things I need and I plan out what I’m going to do or how far I will be going on each day of the trip,” King said. “I like backpacking because it allows me to connect with nature and to destress from school life.”
Senior Talbot McAndrews traveled to Europe with her Girl Scout troop in the summer of 2023. Although there were adult troop leaders there, the girls organized the majority of the trip themselves. Girl Scouts encourages participants to learn independence and responsibility. To plan, she researched reputable hotels and safe areas where her troop could stay.
“Traveling without my parents was a lot of fun,” McAndrews said. “I was definitely more aware of our itinerary and what we were doing. I wasn’t waiting for someone to tell me what was next. It was fun to make my own decisions and plan my own trip.”
For students either trying to travel by themselves or looking for more opportunities, online resources and social media travel guides can be helpful. Finding videos on social media giving advice for new travelers or speaking to friends who have recently been to your local airport or destination can offer additional information.
