A New Era of Purpose: DreamTrips Celebrates 20 Years With the Return of Bottle Schools

As DreamTrips celebrates its milestone 20th anniversary and an exciting global re-launch, we’re proud to announce the return of one of our most meaningful partnerships — our renewed relationship with Hug It Forward, the grassroots organization behind Guatemala’s transformative Bottle Schools.

Where Sustainability Meets Community Power

Hug It Forward’s mission is simple yet powerful: they unite communities to build environmentally responsible classrooms using eco-bricks — plastic bottles packed with inorganic trash — turning waste into opportunity. By empowering local families to take part in every step of the building process, HIF not only creates sustainable educational spaces, but also sparks long-term awareness around trash management, environmental responsibility, and community ownership. Their work proves that when people come together, lasting change is possible.

A Legacy Written in Schools, Not Just Memories

And together, we’ve already proven just how big that change can be.

Over the past decade, DreamTrips members and Hug It Forward have built 150 Bottle Schools across Guatemala — one of the largest social impact legacies in the entire travel industry. These schools didn’t just open doors for children in rural communities… they opened hearts, shifted perspectives, and connected travelers to a deeper sense of global purpose.

“When People Travel With Intention, Incredible Things Happen.”

Zach Balle, the Co-Founder & President of Hug It Forward shared:

“At Hug It Forward, we’ve always believed that meaningful travel can change lives — not only for the communities we serve, but also for the people who show up to serve alongside them. That’s why our partnership with DreamTrips feels so special. Their travelers bring heart, curiosity, and a genuine willingness to connect with Guatemalan families as we build bottle classrooms together. This new chapter of collaboration fills us with gratitude and optimism. When people travel with intention, incredible things happen — and DreamTrips continues to create those opportunities in a way that honors community, culture, and impact.”

Bottle Schools Return in 2026 — The Next Chapter Begins

Now, as part of our renewed commitment to service and community transformation, Bottle Schools are officially making their return in 2026 — opening up an exciting new chapter of hands-on, purpose-driven travel.

A Trip That Builds More Than Classrooms

DreamTrips Members will once again have the opportunity to:
• Volunteer side-by-side with local families
• Help construct eco-friendly classrooms
• Immerse themselves in the culture, beauty, and spirit of Guatemala
• Experience travel that leaves a lasting imprint — both personally and globally

“It Became a Mission for Me.” — A DreamTrips Member’s Life-Changing Journey

DreamTrips Member and Bottle School Trip Leader Jon Clash said:

“My first bottle school trip changed my life. It was beyond what I ever expected! I thought it would just be a trip that I would go on and come home and go about my life but it became a mission for me to attend every year and lead others to join us. It’s been an honor to lead these life changing trips and I’m excited to continue to leave an impact alongside DreamTrips.”

Not Just a Comeback—A Reawakening

The DreamTrips re-launch isn’t just about elevating the way the world travels. It’s a powerful reminder that travel can transform lives — not only for the traveler, but for the communities we touch along the way.

This is more than a comeback.

It’s a return to our heart.

It’s the beginning of DreamTrips’ next era of impact, purpose, and possibility.