FIT stands for Foreign Independent Traveller: a trip you plan and book yourself, with full control over your itinerary rather than following a fixed group tour. In the travel trade the term also covers the agents and operators who sell those independent trips, which is the type of FIT work Cashel Travel handles as a destination management company.
FIT: the flexible way to travel
What is FIT?
Here at Cashel Travel, the term or acronym FIT stands for Foreign Independent Traveler, but it isn’t necessarily the same in other organisations. Some people or companies refer to it as a Fully Independent Traveler, Frequent Independent Traveler, Free Independent Tourist, Frequent Individual Traveler and we’re sure there are many more. But as you can see, they’re all very much the same thing.
On paper, FIT is a travel style where you plan and book all aspects of your trip yourself, giving you complete control over your itinerary and experiences. But if you choose to work with a tour operator, who also work with FIT’s, they will allow you to access great package tours, while keeping the option to customize your journey to your specific interests and preferences.
Why Choose FIT?
- Flexibility: FIT offers unparalleled flexibility. Wether you choose to travel to Scotland, England, Wales or Ireland, we can create a truly personalized experience for you.
- Independence: As a FIT traveler, you keep control over your itinerary and can choose your own pace. There’s no need to follow a rigid schedule or conform to group activities. Simply follow our recommendation and keep the liberty to make a detour whenever you want!
- Authentic Experiences: FIT allows you to immerse yourself in local culture and have more authentic experiences. You can interact with locals, try local cuisine, and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
- Adventure: FIT is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy exploring new places and stepping outside their comfort zone. You can embark on hiking trails, try water sports, or even volunteer in local communities.
Planning your next FIT trip with our sister-company Great British Trips
Our sister company Great British Trips is specialised in FIT trips to England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Get in touch with our team today to start planning your next trip. Here is what we can offer:
- Research: No need to research your next destination, we are true experts of the countries we sell. Our team and offices are scattered around in the England, Scotland and Ireland, and we know all the inside-tips that will make a difference (including attractions, transportation options, accommodations, and local customs).
- Budget: Discuss about your budget with our team, to make sure it is realistic and to know what you can expect in our destination for the funds allocated.
- Itinerary: We can create a flexible itinerary, allowing for spontaneous changes and unexpected discoveries.
- Bookings: We take care of book your flights, accommodations, and transportation in advance for you (it is important, especially during peak travel seasons).
- Stay Informed: As experts of our destinations, we always stay updated on local news, weather conditions, and any potential travel advisories.
FIT travel: common questions
What does FIT stand for in travel?
FIT stands for Foreign Independent Traveller. Some companies expand it as Fully Independent Traveller or Free Independent Tourist, but all of them describe the same thing: a traveller who books a trip independently rather than joining a fixed group tour.
What is the difference between FIT and group travel?
A group tour runs to a set itinerary with a set departure date and a shared coach or guide. FIT travel is built around one traveller, couple or family, with their own dates, pace and choice of hotels and experiences.
Does FIT mean travelling without any help?
No. Many FIT travellers book through a travel agent or tour operator who arranges the hotels, transport and experiences while leaving the itinerary flexible. That is what Cashel Travel and our sister company Great British Trips do for FIT clients in Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland.
What does FIT mean for a travel agent or DMC?
For the trade, FIT describes the business of selling independent, tailor made itineraries rather than series group departures. A destination management company like Cashel Travel supplies the ground arrangements for those itineraries to agents and operators overseas.