Unplug for Adventure: Why Broadreach’s Phone-Free Teen Summer Programs Help Students Thrive
By: Broadreach HQ October 16, 2025 High School Adventures, Middle School, Parents
At Broadreach, we believe real adventure starts when you unplug. That’s why all Broadreach summer programs for teens are cell phone-free experiences designed to help students step outside their comfort zones, form genuine connections, and truly live in the moment.
In today’s world, teens are more connected than ever. According to a 2022 Pew Research Center survey, 97% of teens use the internet every day, with nearly half saying they’re online almost constantly. Between school, social media, and screens, that’s a lot of digital noise — and it can be exhausting.
Our unplugged summer programs give teens the chance to take a break from constant connectivity, build confidence, and rediscover what it feels like to be fully present.
Why We Believe in Unplugged Adventures
The American Psychological Association recommends that teens spend regular time offline to reduce stress and improve social connections. A Broadreach adventure gives students exactly that: an opportunity to connect face-to-face, explore new places, and grow in independence.
For many teens (and their parents!), the idea of being phone-free can feel like a big adjustment. But after a few days of sailing Caribbean waters, spotting wildlife, or watching the sunset from deck, students tell us they don’t even miss their phones.
As one Broadreach parent, Wendy, shared:
“My son came back ‘unlocked’ from electronics — happier, more engaged, and in touch with the world.”
How Communication Works on a Phone-Free Program
We know how important peace of mind is for families. That’s why we make sure communication stays open — just not constant.
Arrival day: Students can use their phones or an instructor’s phone to check in with home before handing them over to instructors.
Weekly calls: Phones are safely stored and returned once a week for scheduled calls home. Or, students can use an instructor’s phone to call home.
Daily updates: Each program posts a daily trip blog written by students, along with photos uploaded to a shared album. Parents can follow along as their teen’s adventure unfolds.
As Broadreach parent Lori put it:
“I loved how Broadreach kept us informed. Every day, we’d get an update written by one of the kids, along with photos. It was really well done!”
And of course, instructors always carry phones to stay in touch with Broadreach HQ and reach parents if needed.
Capturing the Moment Without a Phone
Just because students leave their phones behind doesn’t mean they can’t capture memories. We encourage them to bring a digital camera or adventure-ready GoPro to snap photos and videos. Instructors also take pictures daily, so families and students have plenty of memories to look back on.
Music Without the Screen Time
Music is a big part of the Broadreach experience — from sing-alongs on deck to sharing playlists with new friends. Students can bring an old iPod or a simple MP3 player for tunes on the go.
Modern, offline options like the Campfire Player let students download songs from Spotify or Apple Music before departure, so they can enjoy their playlists without needing Wi-Fi or a smartphone.
A Digital Detox That Builds Confidence
At first, going without a phone can feel strange. But within hours, students begin bonding with their crew, diving into hands-on learning, and laughing late into the night. Soon, they realize how freeing it feels to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the world.
Many return home more confident, independent, and socially connected than ever before — proof that a little digital detox can go a long way.
Ready to Unplug and Explore?
At Broadreach, our unplugged teen travel programs are more than just screen-free — they’re life-changing. Students return with new friends, real-world skills, and a more profound sense of who they are. We hope students (and their families!) embrace the challenge of unplugging from technology and experience their Broadreach adventure to the fullest.
