Your teen is packed, excited and ready to go. Then a message arrives on day two: “I miss home.” For many parents, this is the hardest moment of a school trip. Homesickness is a normal reaction to being away from familiar people and routines, and it usually becomes easier with time and support.
In this guide, we explain what homesickness looks like, how it relates to culture shock, and what parents can do before and during the trip. We also cover how to stay in touch, when to contact trip staff, and how Engaged Education programs support student wellbeing abroad. Every student is different, so use these tips as a starting point and adapt them to your own child.
What is homesickness?
Homesickness is the distress or longing students may feel when they are away from home. It can show up as sadness, worry, trouble sleeping, low appetite, or frequent thoughts about home. Some students feel it on the first night. Others feel it midway through the trip, when the excitement fades and they get tired.
A clinical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics, written by Christopher Thurber and Edward Walton and published in Pediatrics in 2007, focused on children away at camp and in other settings. It described homesickness as very common and highly preventable and treatable (ScienceDaily summary). Many of its practical suggestions also apply to teens on school trips.
Homesickness and culture shock
Abroad, homesickness often overlaps with culture shock. New food, a new language and a different schedule make daily life feel harder. A tired student may miss home more. Rest, routine and support help with both.
How parents can prepare before the trip
The weeks before departure are when parents can make the biggest difference.
Involve your teen in the plan
Read the itinerary together. Look up the places they will visit. Let your teen help choose what to pack. Our international trip packing list is a useful starting point. Knowing what to expect can help students feel more in control.
Talk about feelings in advance
Explain that missing home is normal and does not mean the trip is going badly. Agree on a few coping ideas, such as writing in a journal, talking to a roommate, or speaking with the group leader.
Avoid a “pick-up promise”
The AAP report advises parents not to promise they will bring their child home if they feel homesick. That kind of deal can signal doubt in your child’s ability to cope. Safety and health always come first. Ask the school how staff will reach you if there is a real concern.
Practice time away
If your teen has rarely been away from home, a weekend with relatives or friends can help. They get to practice handling small moments of homesickness.
Share health information with the school
If your teen takes medication or has a physical or mental health condition, tell the school and program staff before departure. Talk with your teen’s healthcare provider about the trip. Pack medications in their original containers and keep the usual schedule.
Staying in touch during the trip
Agree on a contact plan
Decide together how often you will talk. A short daily message or a call every couple of days works for many families. Too much contact can make it harder for some students to settle in.
Keep your tone calm and encouraging
If your teen says they are homesick, listen first. Acknowledge the feeling. Then ask about something good from the day, such as a meal, a new friend or a place they saw. Avoid saying how much you miss them or what they are missing at home.
Know when to contact staff
Reach out to the trip leader or teacher if your teen is not eating or sleeping, seems very distressed for over a day, mentions feeling unsafe, or has a health concern. Staff on the ground can check in directly. Our parent’s guide to educational trips explains more about supervision and communication.
How Engaged Education supports student wellbeing
Engaged Education programs include structure that helps students feel settled.
In the Language Immersion in Lima program, a group leader meets students at the airport. The first day includes an orientation and safety overview. Students stay together in twin rooms, and evening and final reflection sessions give them space to talk.
In the Language Immersion in Cusco program, a group leader meets students at the airport. An orientation and safety meeting takes place on day two. The program ends with a reflection session.
The Spain Global Impact Fellowship 2027 begins in Barcelona with a welcome meeting with the tour leader and a welcome dinner. Shared meals each day give students regular time with their group. For more on how adults support groups abroad, read our field trip chaperone guide.
FAQ
Is homesickness normal on a school trip?
Yes. Many students miss home at some point while traveling. It is usually strongest when they are tired or adjusting to something new, and it often eases as they settle into a routine.
Should I call my child more if they are homesick?
Not necessarily. Keep your planned contact schedule, listen, and stay encouraging. Frequent calls can sometimes make it harder to settle in. Contact the trip leader if you are worried.
When should parents contact trip staff about homesickness?
Contact staff if your teen is not eating or sleeping, seems very distressed for over a day, says they feel unsafe, or has a health concern.
Help your teen travel with confidence
With some preparation and a calm contact plan, students can usually work through homesickness and enjoy their trip. Our Language Immersion programs in Lima and Cusco and our Spain Global Impact Fellowship 2027 include a group or tour leader and an orientation or welcome meeting at the start. Fill out our form to learn more.
Start your journey by downloading the Engaged Education Brochure and learn more about our immersive programs in Peru, Spain, and beyond. Interested in creating lasting impact around the world? You can directly assist communities in need by becoming a monthly donor through MEDLIFE’s Moving Mountains initiative.
