Frequently Asked Questions

Trips/Clinics

Q. How do I sign up for a trip?

A. Trip release is held the second week of classes each semester. Any RAC fee paying member can sign up. Payment is accepted by cash, check, or card. Staff members can give you trip descriptions and any additional information you may need.

Q: What is Trip Release?

A: Because our trips are in high demand, trips and clinics are filled using a first come, first serve number system event called Trip Release. Trip Release is held on Monday of the second week of classes. Students arrive at the Southern Adventures Rental Center before 4 pm. SA staff begin handing out numbers promptly at 4:00 pm, and our quota is typically reached by 4:02 pm. (Those determined to get a spot on a trip are encouraged to arrive early!) Students are allowed one number each initially, but may return to the end of the line to receive a second number – either for themselves or for a friend. Students return at 8:00 pm to the MAC gym for the Trip Release event. When their number is called, students may sign up for one trip and any number of clinics. If a student wishes to sign up for an additional trip, they may request an additional number and wait until that number is called, but are not guaranteed a spot.

Q: What if I have class/an obligation at 4:00 pm and cannot stand in line to get a number?

A: If you are unable to stand in line for a number, a friend may stand in line to pick up a number for you. Please note that if your friend also wants to sign up for a trip, they will only be handed one number and must return to the back of the line to get an additional number. Your best option is to find someone who is uninterested in going on a trip, but who loves you dearly enough to grab a number in your place.

Q: What if I have class/an obligation at 8:00 pm and cannot attend the Trip Release?

A: If you are unable to attend Trip Release, a friend cannot sign up for a trip for you. Because there are a number of forms that must be signed and payment is expected at sign-up, you must be present to sign up for a trip. There are no exceptions to this rule. If you are not present when your number is called, the next number will be called and you will miss your opportunity to sign up for a trip. Realistically speaking, if you hold #57 in your hand, your number will not be called at 8:00 pm. If you arrive late because you hold a higher number, however, you assume the responsibility and risk for missing the sign-up.

Q. What do I need to bring on the trip?

A. All trip participants are responsible for all of their own clothing, spending money, as well as personal items such as toiletries, water bottles, and eating utensils. Southern Adventures will provide all gear related to the activity . A personal gear checklist will be provided at the pre-trip meeting.

Q. Why are pre-trip meetings mandatory?

A. Pre-trip meetings are important for a number of reasons. Important information is covered, paperwork is completed, participants are sized for gear, and most importantly it is a chance for all participants to meet each other prior to the trip.

Q. What does the price of the trip include?

A. All Southern Adventures trip prices include transportation, leaders, group gear, and all specialized gear related to the activity. Extended trips may also include some food. All gear issued is discussed at the pre-trip meeting.

Rental Center

Q. What are some of the items that are rented out?

A. Canoes, kayaks, tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, camp stoves, cook sets, bikes, backpacks, snorkeling gear, and resource books.

Q. What are the different types of boats that you rent out?

A. We have three different types of sit on top kayaks that are available. Two different styles of single sit on tops, and one style of a tandem sit on top. We also have sit in sea kayaks available; however, you must either have gone on a kayaking trip with us or through our sea kayaking 101 clinic before being able to rent out a sit in kayak. We also rent out tandem canoes.

Q. If I rent a boat, do I pay extra for the paddles and life jackets?

A. If you rent a kayak or canoe the price given for the boat will include all needed accessories including tie down straps, paddles, and life jackets.

Q. What is the best way to transport a boat if I rent one?

A. It is easiest to place a boat on a SUV or car. Trucks with short beds and tool boxes make it difficult because you must have at least 3/4 of the boat secured in the bed. If you have questions about transportation of boats please call or email us.

Q. Can I have a friend bring back gear that I have rented?

A. No, items will only be checked back in if the individual who rented them out is present for check in.

Challenge Course

Q. Is it Safe?

A. Our number one priority is safety. While there are risks involved with everything you do in life, the challenge course is an extremely safe environment. Our staff members are all highly trained, and our equipment and facility is maintained and inspected on a regular basis.
Participation in a challenge course program is typically no more dangerous than playing tennis or going for a hike.

Q. How many people can participate on the challenge course at a time?

A. For both types of programs we require a minimum of 10 participants in order to schedule a course. The low challenge course programs can accommodate groups up to 100+ people in size (split into smaller groups), but the ideal size for a single group is between 10-20 participants. The high ropes course can accommodate up to 25-30 participants maximum during a four hour time block. But again the ideal size is 10-20.

Q. Do I have to be in good shape to do the challenge course?

A. While many of our challenges can be physically and mentally demanding, most of our activities can be modified to accommodate 
persons with special concerns. We also practice the concept of “Challenge by Choice” which states that individuals choose their level of participation, and group members are never forced to do something they are not comfortable with doing.

Q. When should I put in my reservation request?

A. In order for us to be able to process your challenge course request and organize our staff to facilitate your course we ask for a minimum
of 2 weeks. If it comes in within the 2 week deadline we won’t be able to guarantee that your request will occur. That being stated, the sooner you get in the request the better, whether that be 1 month to 10 months.

Q. What if I need to cancel my reservation?

A. Whether you are an off-campus or campus group the sooner you know and alert us the better. That way we can notify our staff, and that they don’t have to make any unnecessary preparations. Remember though that if you are an off-campus group if you cancel with the 7 days prior to the course that you lose your deposit of $50.00. You can also always reschedule at a later date too.

Climbing Wall

Q. I know how to belay, can I belay at the Georgia Southern University Climbing Wall?

A. You will need to pass our belay test before you are able to belay at the rock wall.

Q. How tall is the climbing wall?

A. The shorter wall is 35’ and the taller wall is 41’.

Q. Do you have to know how to climb to be able to use the wall?

A. Not at all. We have student employees available that are very passionate about climbing and teaching others how to climb. We welcome all climbing skill levels at the climbing wall.

Q. Is there specific attire I need to wear in order to use the climbing wall?

A. You must wear closed toe shoes at the wall. Rental climbing shoes are available at the equipment checkout desk. Athletic clothing is recommended and jewelry is not permitted.