Faq
Answers for You
registration
When is registration?
Official Registration Week will run from December 5-9, 2022, with priority given by age, oldest to youngest. After this, we will continue to run the lottery until all of our trip spots fill up. 2023 locations are not live yet, but will be updated before registration! Click here for more details about our registration process.
What day can I register for my trip?
Starting on December 5th, and each consecutive day after, a different age group is allowed to register. The order will go as follows: Monday (Parent Builders, 19-year-olds), Tuesday (18-year-olds), Wednesday (17-year-olds), Thursday (16-year-olds), Friday (15- and 14-year-olds). Click here for a 2023 Registration calendar.
Your age group day is based on the age you will be on September 1, 2023.
When will I figure out what trip I've been placed on?
Within 12 hours of the most recent lottery run (during registration, we will run the lottery every night at 12 AM MT), you’ll get an email notifying you that you have been placed on a trip. You can log into your Builder Portal to see which location you’ve been assigned to! If all of your preferences were full, you’ll receive an email notifying you that you’ve been placed on the waitlist, with tips for getting off the waitlist and on to a trip.
How old do you have to be to go on a trip?
If you’re between 14- and 16-years-old, you can sign up for a mainland trip. If you’re between 16- and 19-year-old, you can sign up for an international trip. This is consistent for all of our offerings (Build XP and Summit XP).
These age limits are based on what age you will be on the first day of your trip, so as long as you are within the range above by then, you are good to go! Age for official Humanitarian XP Registration Week (the day you can register) will be calculated based on your age on September 1, 2023.
How do I choose which trip to go on?
Short answer? There’s not really a wrong choice! Start by picking a factor that’s most important to you (sightseeing, service, region, date range, etc.), then whittle your list down from there. All our programs use the tried and true HXP structure, so at the core, every trip will be similar. We encourage everyone to look at the options, pray for guidance, and see what you connect with. For more tips on picking a trip, click here.
How do I add an additional Builder?
If you already have a Builder with a portal and you want to add an additional one you will need to log out and log back in. Create an account with the Youth Builder email and keep the parent email the same. Keeping the Parent emails the same will link the accounts. If you cannot figure out how to log out, try creating a new account on another computer or through an incognito browser.
Can I connect my account to someone else's so we can go together?
Humanitarian XP trips are all about building relationships, which is why we encourage every Builder to come alone and meet other people who are also seeking growth opportunities and adventure. Because of this, HXP’s registration system is strategically designed to make it very difficult to get on the same trip as someone that you know.
Click here to read about the Smith and White families, and why they suggest signing up solo for your HXP trip.
How many people go on a typical Humanitarian XP expedition?
International Trips (16- 19 year olds): 23 people (19 Youth Builders, 2 Parent Builders, 2 Trip Leaders)
Domestic Trips (14-16 year olds): 16 people (12 Youth Builders, 2 Parent Builders, 2 Trip Leaders)
For more information on domestic vs. international trips, click here.
Can I accompany my son or daughter?
We would love to have you come on a trip as a Parent Builder! Click here to for more information about your role during the expedition and how to apply.
Can I attend Humanitarian XP if I live outside of the U.S.?
Yes. All participants regardless of home state or country are responsible for round trip transportation to and from the meetup departure airport in the U.S., Because the majority of our participants are American, we make travel, visa, and immunization plans with them in mind. Additional requirements and charges may vary when it comes to Be aware that there may be additional charges and immunization requirements from countries outside the U.S. or Canada.
I'm not a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, can I still attend Humanitarian XP?
Of course! We would love to have you. We just require that you commit to and sign the code of conduct and follow LDS principles and standards. For those “Deal Breakers” explained, click here. The group will also participate in LDS scripture study and church services.
What if my preferred trip is full?
Even if your first choice is full, there are probably still some awesome choices that have openings! If you’re looking for a trip that’s similar to what you had your heart set on, try looking at other trips in the same region. Each trip comes from a similar structure, so you’ll have a great experience wherever you end up. At the end of the day, the trip you’re placed on is yours to make great! Your mindset and preparation for it will make all the difference. For more tips on how to pick a trip, click here.
How does the waitlist work?
After Official Registration week, we’ll run the lottery each weekday at 9 AM MT. This will try to place you on one of your 10 preferences. If all of those trips are full, you’ll be placed on the waitlist.
As long as you remain on the waitlist you can request a refund for the $500 deposit up until August 31st, 2023. Read more here.
Can I be registered on a trip and also be on the waitlist?
No. A participant is either registered on an expedition or on the waiting list, it isn’t possible to be on both. If a participant is registered on an expedition and applies for the waiting list, he/she will lose the spot on the expedition.
What information will I provide to register?
Upon registration, you’ll need to provide Youth Builder and parent full name, email address, phone number, and address. Youth Builder t-shirt size, grade, and high school is also asked.
At this time, you’ll also agree to several HXP policies, which can be viewed here.
For full details about Registration Week logistics, tips, and tricks, including a video walk through, click here.
Do I have to pay the $500 deposit when I register?
Yes! Your $500 deposit is the final step of the registration process, and is the trigger for our system to run you through the lottery and place you on a trip. For more information about 2023 Registration, click here.
I missed official registration week, can I still get on a trip?
Yes! Create an account through the “Login” button in the top right corner, and make sure to check out our Waitlist and Refund Policies for your cancelation and payment policies.
I can't log into my Humanitarian XP account. What do I do?
After you create your HXP account, you will receive an account confirmation email from us. This email may take a few minutes to arrive. You must click the link within 20 minutes of it sending or it will expire—so make sure to use an email address you have immediate access to when you sign up! If you can’t remember your password, you are able to reset it.
If these tips don’t work, please email us at info@hxp.org or call us at (801) 900-4111.
payment/finances
What is/isn't included in the cost of a Humanitarian XP trip?
Click here for a trip cost breakdown. Your trip cost covers every aspect of your experience from meetup at the airport to the end of the trip when you return to that airport (food, lodging, sightseeing, etc.). It is your job to cover the cost of domestic transportation to the meetup location and bring spending money for any extras you want to buy on your trip (souvenirs, extra snacks, etc.). If your specific trip has additional preparatory costs such as required visa/vaccinations and/or baggage cost, it will be specified in your Builder Portal.
Will I need to bring spending money for food and souvenirs?
We suggest bringing anywhere from $50-$200 for spending money, based on what kind of spender you are. If you plan on buying a lot of treats and souvenirs, pack accordingly! Builders bring cash to exchange or a card to pull out local currency once they arrive in country, but we’d suggest also bringing a card in case you run out of money. The best way to exchange money and average spending differs from trip to trip, so ask your Trip Leaders what they’d suggest! For more packing tips, click here.
When does the $500 deposit become non-refundable?
Upon registration, you must pay a $500 deposit to finish your sign-up process. These funds become non-refundable once you are placed on a trip.
If you register during Official Regsitration Week, you can cancel with a full refund until December 23, 2022, at 11:59 PM. After that, the deposit becomes non-refundable 48 hours after you are booked on a trip. Review our 2023 Refund Policy for further details.
If you are never booked on a trip, you can request a refund for the $500 deposit up until August 31st, 2023. Review our waitlist policies here.
When are payments due?
Your $500 deposit is due at registration, halfway payment is due around January ($1500 for international Builders, $500 for domestic Builders), and the remaining trip balance is due in February. Payment deadlines will be updated as we get closer to official Registration Week.
Click here to view the 2022 payment calendar as an example.
I don't think I can afford an Humanitarian XP trip, what do you suggest?
Regardless of your financial situation, we encourage Builders to earn a portion of their trip cost. This is a great way to get invested in your trip before you leave. For some pointers about how most Builders pay for their trips and other fundraising ideas, click here.
I'm a donor, is there anything I should know?
Your donation may be tax deductible! Click here for more helpful information about making a donation in behalf of an HXP Builder.
parents at home
Will I be able to communicate with my child while they are on their trip?
Because of Humanitarian XP’s Digital Detox, you won’t have access to direct communication with your Builder throughout their trip. We’ve set up three touch points (country page Instagram accounts, letters home, and Humanitarian XP On-Call line) so you have the reassurance that they are alive, well, and having a great time away from home! For more information about communicating with your Builder while they’re on their trip, click here.
What if I need to let my child know about something urgent while they are on their trip?
In case of emergency, we have a 24-hour hotline during the summer. If there’s an emergency at home or on your child’s trip, Humanitarian Experience HQ will get you in touch quickly. This phone number will be emailed to you the week your Builder leaves on their trip. Read More
Parent builders
What does a parent builder do?
Parent builders ensure the safety of the trip, exemplify spiritual leadership, and commit to loving the builders and Trip Leaders. Read more here.
Can both my spouse and I go as Parent Builders on the same trip with our child?
No. HXP trips are not designed to be family trips. The male and female parent builders must be from different families.
Read more here.
What do you expect of Parent Builders?
- Pray about how you can personally impact each builder
- Support and encourage the Trip Leaders
- Honor the rules, set an example and stay with the group
- Attend and review your mandatory pre-training
- Seek to stretch and grow beyond your comfort zone
Read more here.
builders 16–19
What does an average day look like for a Builder?
During weekdays, you’ll spend most of your day at your project worksite; on the weekend, you’ll do sightseeing activities; and on Sundays, you’ll attend church. Your trip will be about 17 days long. For a general idea of what the day in the life of a Humanitarian XP Builder looks like, click here.
What is my role as a Builder?
As a Builder, you are on your trip to do just that: build up your project, build up your friends, and build up your testimony. Show up with a positive attitude, excited to try new things and develop strong relationships, and you will have an incredible experience. Follow the rules, support your Trip Leaders, be smart so you stay safe, and don’t forget to have fun! For more tips for preparing for your trip, click here.
Can I still come on a trip if I have food allergies, diabetes, or other restrictions?
We’ll collect health information as part of your Builder Checklist after you’ve been placed on your trip, then let your trip leaders and our in-country food providers know about any restrictions. Sometimes food options are limited or unlabeled, so it’s your job to monitor what you eat during your trip. Most of the time, local food providers are able to accommodate those with food allergies or restrictions, but bring snacks that you can eat in case you are unable to eat a certain meal.
If you use a phone app to monitor blood sugar or administer insulin, you will must find an alternative during the trip because of our Digital Detox.
What do I need to do about my passport and visa?
Unless you are going to Puerto Rico, Hawaii, or our Mainland locations, you’ll need a passport for your international trip. If you don’t have a valid passport through March 2024 (six months after you return home from your trip), you won’t be able to participate in your trip. For more passport tips, check out this blog post.
Unless your trip page and Builder Portal indicate that you need a visa, you will not need to apply for a visa prior to your trip. The visa application process is time sensitive and unique to each location, so make sure to follow the instructions in your Builder Portal closely when they go live. This process will not take place until a few weeks before your trip, and we will notify you when it’s time to start the process.
When will I get my packing list?
Packing lists are trip specific and can be found in your Builder Portal. For packing tips, click here.
What do I need to know to fill out/upload my Authorized Notarization?
For common questions about Authorized Notarization and a step-by-step tutorial about uploading documents, click here.
How does the Digital Detox work?
The Digital Detox is an irreplaceable part of HXP trips. The complete separation from technology combined with full exposure to a new culture provides an extremely unique opportunity for Builders to build their relationships, testimonies, and perspective.
As soon as you arrive in the country, your Trip Leaders will take your group’s phones (and any other technology), put them in a secure location, and keep them there until the end of your trip. This means you won’t have access to your phone during the duration of your trip. It may sound tough to cut ties with the outside world for 17 days, but we promise you’re going to love it!
Will I be able to call home when I'm on my trip?
Our goal is to make these experiences as mission-like as possible, so don’t expect to call home during the time you are away. As soon as your group has arrived safely, we’ll send your parents an email. Then, they can follow along with your trip via your country Instagram page (@hxp.tripname). You will have the opportunity to write a letter home half way through your trip, which your Trip Leaders will email to them. If your parent needs to get in touch with you during your trip, they’ll contact the Humanitarian XP office and we’ll get in touch with the Trip Leaders to relay the message. For more information about parent communication during your trip, click here.
Should I change money to the local currency before my trip?
You will exchange money once you arrive in country, no need to worry about doing so beforehand.
Will I be able to do laundry while on my trip?
Yes, you will have an opportunity to do laundry about halfway through your trip. You will cover the cost of this expense, so try to pack as efficiently as possible so you don’t HAVE to wash a lot of stuff. For more packing tips, click here.
Will I need to know the local language of my trip?
Nope! There are no language requirements to go on a Humanitarian XP trip, and your group will have a translator with you to help you communicate with local people. You will learn a handful of phrases in the local language while on your trip, so if you want to do a little preparing before, you’ll have a head start when you arrive. Check out Sage’s story about learning Arabic to prepare for her trip to Jordan.
Do I need to purchase Travel or Health insurance for my trip?
With the well-being of Builders as our top priority, Humanitarian XP purchases travel insurance for Builders for what happens during the trip, including medical insurance and evacuation, security evacuation, lost or delayed baggage, trip delay, and trip interruption. We recommend purchasing a Cancel for Any Reason policy to protect your investment in the event that YOU need to cancel from your trip from any reason. Regarding health insurance, Humanitarian XP’s travel insurance covers short-term medical emergencies, but you’ll need your own medical insurance just in case you have a problem that requires continued treatment. Humanitarian XP’s insurance will only cover after claims have been filed through primary insurance. For more information, click here.
Builders 14–16
What does an average day look like for a Builder?
During weekdays, you’ll spend most of your day at your project worksite; on the weekend, you’ll do sightseeing activities; and on Sundays, you’ll attend church. Your trip will be about 10 days long. For a general idea of what the day in the life of a Humanitarian XP Builder looks like, click here.
What is my role as a Builder?
As a Builder, you are on your trip to do just that: build up your project, build up your friends, and build up your testimony. Show up with a positive attitude, excited to try new things and develop strong relationships, and you will have an incredible experience. Follow the rules, support your Trip Leaders, be smart so you stay safe, and don’t forget to have fun! For more tips for preparing for your trip, click here.
What's the best way to travel as an unaccompanied minor?
Click here for our tips about most major airline requirements for you travelers flying as unaccompanied minors.
What if I have food allergies, diabetes, or other restrictions?
We’ll collect health information as part of your Builder Checklist after you’ve been placed on your trip, then let your trip leaders and our in-country food providers know about any restrictions. Sometimes food options are limited or unlabeled, so it’s your job to monitor what you eat during your trip. Most of the time, local food providers are able to accommodate those with food allergies or restrictions, but bring snacks that you can eat in case you are unable to eat a certain meal.
If you use a phone app to monitor blood sugar or administer insulin, you will must find an alternative during the trip because of our Digital Detox.
When will I get my packing list?
Packing lists are trip specific and can be found in your Builder Portal as soon as you are placed on your expedition. For packing tips, click here.
What do I need to know to fill out/upload my Authorized Notarization?
For common questions about Authorized Notarization and a step-by-step tutorial about uploading documents, click here.
How does the Digital Detox work?
The Digital Detox is an irreplaceable part of HXP trips. The complete separation from technology combined with full exposure to a new culture provides an extremely unique opportunity for Builders to build their relationships, testimonies, and perspective.
As soon as you arrive to your meetup spot, your Trip Leaders will take your group’s phones (and any other technology), put them in a secure location, and keep them there until the end of your trip. This may seem like a long time to go without communicating with the outside world, but we promise you’re going to love it!
Will I be able to call home when I'm on my trip?
Our goal is to make these experiences as mission-like as possible, so don’t expect to call home during the time you are away. As soon as your group has arrived safely, we’ll send your parents an email. Then, they can follow along with your trip via your location Instagram page (@hxp.tripname). You will have the opportunity to write a letter home half way through your trip, which your Trip Leaders will email to them. If your parent needs to get in touch with you during your trip, they’ll contact the Humanitarian XP office and we’ll get in touch with the Trip Leaders to relay the message. For more information about parent communication during your trip, click here.
Will I be able to do laundry while I'm on my trip?
While international Builders have a laundry day halfway through their trip, you will not. Because your trip is only 10 days long, we feel confident that you can make it through without washing clothes! To make sure you pack as efficiently as possible, make sure you check out our packing tips blog post.
Do I need to purchase Travel or Health insurance for the expedition?
With the well-being of Builders as our top priority, Humanitarian XP purchases travel insurance for Builders for what happens during the trip, including medical insurance and evacuation, security evacuation, lost or delayed baggage, trip delay, and trip interruption. We recommend purchasing a Cancel for Any Reason policy to protect your investment in the event that YOU need to cancel from your trip from any reason. Regarding health insurance, Humanitarian XP’s travel insurance covers short-term medical emergencies, but you’ll need your own medical insurance just in case you have a problem that requires continued treatment. Humanitarian XP’s insurance will only cover after claims have been filed through primary insurance. For more information, click here.
Trip Leaders
When can I apply to be a Trip Leader and when will I hear back?
Early Admissions will close August 31, 2022 with interviews to follow in October. The final application deadline is February 1, 2023. Acceptances will be sent on a rolling basis, trip dates will be communicated on February 24th, and trip locations will be announced on March 3rd.
Apply here.
How long is my commitment as a Trip Leader?
We ask that Trip Leaders have an available of 3-5 weeks to be able to lead an HXP trip!
Do I get to choose where I go as a Trip Leader?
No, as a first-year Trip Leader, you will not get to choose where you’d like to serve; we will assign you a location based on a variety of factors, including how your personality type will match up with your co-leader, your language ability, and lots and lots of prayer. More about this process here.
Can I stay in the country and travel around at my own expense after my trip is over?
No. The 19 youth builders that we trust you with are your number one priority from the first moment you meet to the last moment at your connecting airport. It is extremely crucial that you are there with them to make sure they get to their domestic flights properly.
Is the Trip Leader position paid?
No, the Trip Leader Position is a volunteer position you will apply for. All your travel costs on the trip are covered.
What training will I receive as a Trip Leader?
For summer 2023 Trip Leader Training will be three days long in May 2023 (dates TBD). This is mandatory! If you cannot attend this training you will not be invited to be a Trip Leader with us for this coming year.
Other important dates include March 3rd. This is our infamous “sorting day” where you will meet your tribe and together it will be revealed what trip you will be a part of!
Can I go with my spouse?
Married individuals can (and should) apply to be Trip Leaders! Every year, many of our new and veteran Trip Leaders are married. The same rules always apply for married Trip Leaders as well as single Trip Leaders. Read these rules here.
How do I know if I am qualified to be a Trip Leader?
We look for 21- 30 year olds that have a strong testimony of the restored Church of Jesus Christ and a life that reflects that belief. Other qualifications include previous international travel, experience working with 14-19 year olds, and you must commit to 3-5 weeks for your trip in the coming summer. Read the rest of our qualifications here.
When will I get my packing list/itinerary?
If you are accepted to be a Trip Leader with us all the information you need will be on your Trip Leader portal. Further information on this process will come in your acceptance email.
Flights
Which flight costs do I pay separate from my trip cost?
While we cover international airfare, you are responsible for purchasing domestic flights to/from the “meet up” airport, and the luggage on that. You will also be responsible for any additional luggage you bring that is not covered in the luggage allotment, detailed in your travel information in your Builder Portal (standard limits listed below).
For more details about what is/isn’t included in the cost of your HXP trip cost, click here.
What airport am I flying out of?
Upon registration, your “meet up” airport will be listed under the trip information. Additional flight details will be sent to you 90 days before your trip departure date.
How do I know where to meet my group at the departure airport?
Your Trip Leaders will set a designated meeting area for your group, and send details of where in your trip’s GroupMe. The meeting area is outside of security, you will be able to check into the international flight with the whole group! Click here for more travel tips.
How much luggage can I bring?
For international trips you can bring 1 personal item, 1 standard sized carry-on item, and 1 standard sized checked bag. For Domestic trips you can bring 1 personal item, and 1 standard sized carry-on item.
Can I use miles or flight vouchers to pay for my international flight?
HXP works closely with the airlines to secure the best prices for our Builders. However, this is contingent upon our purchasing the tickets as a group. We are therefore unable to permit the use of miles or flight vouchers in order to best serve all of our Builders.
COVID-19
Are HXP participants required to have the Covid-19 vaccine?
With the end of the COVID-19 Pandemic in sight, we will not be requiring the vaccine for all 2023 Builders like we did in 2022. As always, we will be complying to the travel guidelines of the areas we visit, so some restrictions/limitations may apply based on location regulations.
By the time 2023 Registration begins, we will have a much better idea of requirements for different trips, and you will be able only pick options that match your timeframe, itinerary, and vaccine preferences.
What is HXP doing to make this trip safe?
At Humanitarian XP, safety is our top priority. When it comes to COVID-19 protocol, we closely follow local guidelines in the countries and states we serve in. For more detailed information about our company-wide COVID-19 guidelines and contingency plans, check out our COVID-19 Health and Safety page.
What if trips get cancelled/we can't travel internationally?
Check out our COVID-19 response for more information about how we’ve handled travel amidst the Pandemic in past years. Renewed policies for 2023 will be updated before Official Registration Week.
Miscellaneous
Is HumanitarianXP the same thing as HEFY?
In 2021, we updated our nickname from “HEFY” to Humanitarian XP (HXP). This update did not affect our methodology in any way. Our key elements (the positive peer groups, the digital detox, the incredible Trip Leaders, and the grueling hard work) remain the same. Additionally, prayer, scripture study, and church attendance will continue to be a central part of all our experiences. Click here to learn more.
Is HXP part of BYU’s EFY program?
While Humanitarian Experience and EFY share many of the same beliefs, standards, goals, and objectives, Humanitarian XP is an independent non-profit organization and is not affiliated with EFY, BYU, or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Humanitarian XP programs are open to youth of any denomination that agrees to follow the code of conduct. Prayer, scripture study, and church attendance are an important part of each program.
Are these experiences sightseeing trips?
While each trip offers world-class sightseeing, service is our mantra. Builders can expect to spend about 60 hours on the construction project work-site, with weekends are set aside for sightseeing. Humanitarian XP believes in immersing youth in the communities and among the people of the countries they visit to help them understand the genuine joy that comes from serving others.
Is this a rehabilitation program of some type?
HXP expeditions are designed to change lives through service. However, they are not designed for teens experiencing serious emotional, moral, substance abuse, or discipline problems. While our Trip Leaders are outstanding individuals, they don’t have professional training to deal with youth with significant challenges. If the Trip Leaders encounter teens with disruptive challenges that have difficulties following Humanitarian XP rules, they are instructed to send them home early so that they can receive professional care.