We rented vans in 2001 and 2003, driving from Minnesota. It's a 2 1/2 day
trip as BSA has rules about mileage and hours on the road each day, even if
you have multiple drivers per van. We rented them by the week, for three
full weeks, and they give you a certain number of free miles in the fee. We
went over by about 20%, but that was with driving from Minnesota and doing
quite a bit of touring before getting to Philmont. We rented 15 passenger
vans and had them take out the back seat so we could keep all of our gear
inside. This worked very well, but we only had 6 people per van. With 24
people, you could probably put 8 people per van (two per seat) and only
need three vans, still having enough room for gear. We only had 12 people,
hence the 6 people per van.
We did a lot of calling to find a place that rented that size van -- many
car rentals only have mini-vans, and we also discovered most places won't
let you take them out of state! I wasn't expecting that, so we had
difficulty making arrangements that first year. The place we got them from
isn't part of a 'chain' so the hybrid approach wouldn't have worked for us.
You may also find it's more hassle than it's worth, and won't save you
money in the long run. We loved having our own transportation available to
us at all times, and it was still cheaper than the other transportation
options. For us, this was the best option and it's how we would do it
again.
One driver per van will also need to make sure they have enough insurance,
as the BSA also has a minimum requirement for that as well when driving 15
passenger vans. Even if you don't have 15 people IN the van, and even if
the back seat is removed and you CAN'T have 15 passengers, you still need
proof of enough insurance. My husband and I increased our insurance and we
were listed as the two drivers.
Other activities? We stayed at the Air Force Academy for two days and used
it as a home base for touring in the area. Scouts stay there for free, but
you will need someone with a current Dept. of Defense card in order to get
in. We went to Pike's Peak, and as they have a carload fee, we put all
twelve of us in one van for the day and saved a lot of money that way. We
left our gear in the other van. We also toured the Garden of the Gods
(awesome rock formations) in Colorado Springs which is free. We spent a
full day whitewater rafting which was a definite highlight for everyone. We
went through Dvorak's in Canon City, CO. They took great care of us, fed us
lunch and dinner (dinner was extra but WORTH every penny -- one of the best
steaks I've ever had!) and we stayed on their grounds that night -- also
well worth it.
We did our touring before Philmont - a little risky if you choose physical
activities, but we were all careful and didn't have any problems. By the
time we checked out of Philmont, we were ready to just head home and I
don't think we would have enjoyed side trips as much.
Have a great time!
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As you gather around this virtual campfire with fellow
Scouts and Scouters, do your best to be trustworthy,
loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient,
cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.
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Received on Wed Jul 23 14:19:52 2003
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