Strategies for Successful Bidding at the ATCF Auction
📅 Mark Your Calendars! The world’s largest and most respected adventure travel and gear auction benefiting conservation is back !
On Saturday, September 27, 2024, World Tourism Day, the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund Auction returns following last year’s outstanding success, raising $114,000 for important conservation efforts globally.
Travelers can get a preview of the items that will be up for bidding from September 27 to October 22 by going to the Travel Conservation Auction page. Best practices recommend keeping an eye on a favorite item in order to not be “scooped” at the last minute. And as every dollar goes to the conservation work of the ATCF, people are reminded to bid early, bid often, and bid high.
In all, some 75 adventure trips, lodging, and gear are being auctioned. Donors include such respected travel companies as World Expeditions, Hurtigruten, VBT Bicycling Vacations, Wilderness Safaris, Mountain Lodges of Peru, Angama, OARS, Volcanoes Safaris, Polar Latitudes, Quasar, and Enchanted Expeditions.
With so many exciting options, you may want to check out our list of Strategies for Successful Bidding:
Online auctions for global adventures—whether it’s a luxury safari, a private yacht charter, or a guided trek through the Himalayas—are thrilling opportunities to secure once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But before you dive in and start clicking “bid,” it’s wise to plan a smart strategy to increase your odds of success while staying within budget.
The first step is research. Review the auction catalog thoroughly and note the destinations, inclusions, and restrictions. Pay particular attention to travel blackout dates, expiration terms, and any hidden costs, such as flights or gratuities. Don’t let excitement overshadow practical details.
Next, set a realistic budget. Assign a maximum number you’re comfortable with and stick to it. Auctions move quickly, and competitive energy can tempt you to overspend. To avoid regret, mentally commit to walking away once your limit is reached.
Timing your participation also matters. Observe the bidding activity early on to gauge interest and potential competition. Sometimes it’s better to hold back until the closing moments, while in other cases, placing an early bid can establish your presence.
Stay flexible and consider backup choices. With multiple adventures available, you’ll have a stronger chance if you’re open to a range of destinations or experiences.
Finally, remember the bigger picture: this process should be enjoyable. Win or lose, participating in an auction is part of the adventure. With preparation, patience, and strategy, you’ll maximize both your chances of winning and the satisfaction of the journey ahead.
