Planning an international adventure is exciting—but deciding how to structure your trip can be just as important as picking the destination. Whether you’re chasing pints in Ireland, uncovering hidden breweries in the UK, or sipping your way through Europe, the way you travel shapes your experience. Below is a comparison of four popular travel styles: large group tours, small group tours, custom private trips, and self-guided travel.
Large Group Tour
(60+ people on a bus with a guide)
Best for: First-time travelers, those who want convenience and structure.
Large group tours typically involve 50–60 people on a motorcoach following a set itinerary. A professional tour guide manages logistics and offers insight along the way. Meals, hotels, and activities are usually pre-arranged, and the group sticks together from start to finish.
- Economies of scale make it cost-effective.
- Everything is planned for you—minimal stress.
- Great for meeting new people.
- Less flexibility or spontaneity.
- Can feel rushed or impersonal.
- Time is dictated by the group schedule, not personal preference.
Verdict: Efficient and easy, but best for those who don’t mind traveling at a group pace.
Small Group Tour
(10–15 people with a guide/driver)
Best for: Travelers looking for a balance between structure and intimacy.
Small group tours offer a more personalized experience. You still follow a set itinerary, but with fewer people and access to more unique places that large buses can’t reach—like countryside breweries or cozy local pubs. Guides often have more time to engage with each traveler.
- A more relaxed and intimate group dynamic.
- Easier access to local experiences.
- Still convenient with logistics handled for you.
- Less flexibility than custom trips.
- Slightly higher price point than large group tours.
Verdict: A great option for beer lovers who want structure with a more personal touch. (Hint: It’s our style of choice for Epic Beer Trips!)
Custom/Private Tour
(4–6 people with a guide/driver)
Best for: Families, friend groups, or seasoned travelers with specific interests.
Custom tours are built around you. You’ll travel in a private vehicle with a guide/driver, but unlike packaged tours, you help shape the itinerary. Want to spend extra time at a brewery, skip the castle tour, or eat at a specific restaurant? You can.
- Fully tailored experience.
- Maximum flexibility and comfort.
- Ideal for special interests or celebrations.
- Higher cost per person.
- Requires more pre-trip communication and planning.
Verdict: Ideal for travelers who want control without the hassle of driving or logistics—especially great for craft beer connoisseurs on a mission.
Self-Guided Travel
(You plan and guide yourself)
Best for: Independent travelers who enjoy research and spontaneity.
With this option, you book flights, hotels, transportation, and activities yourself. You decide where to go, how long to stay, and what to see—on your own schedule. It’s a rewarding path, especially if you enjoy the challenge of uncovering hidden gems solo.
- Total freedom and control.
- Often the most budget-friendly.
- Allows for spontaneous discoveries.
- Requires significant planning.
- You’re on your own for language barriers, transport hiccups, or emergencies.
- Can be overwhelming in unfamiliar destinations.
Verdict: Rewarding for confident travelers who enjoy creating their own path—but may miss out on deeper insights and effortless access to beer experiences.
Ready to Travel With Fellow Beer Lovers?
At Epic Beer Trips, we specialize in small group tours that blend expert planning, authentic experiences, and a shared love for craft beer. Want to sip imperial stouts in Sligo, visit independent breweries along Ireland’s coast, or toast with new friends in a centuries-old pub?
Join us for our next beer adventure! Our expertly guided trips features brewery visits, cultural excursions, and unforgettable memories. Spaces are limited—check out our upcoming trips and reserve your spot!
