Atomic Trips Bylaws & Member Agreement | Book Four • Codes 30-40

Important – relationship to Terms & Conditions

These Bylaws and Member Agreement (the “Bylaws”) are incorporated into and form part of the Atomic Trips Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”). By joining the $5 Travel Club or booking or participating in any Atomic Trips program, you agree that:

1. The Terms & Conditions are the primary contract between you and Atomic Trips.
2. These Bylaws supplement the Terms by setting more detailed membership, conduct, operational, and safety rules.
3. If there is a direct conflict between these Bylaws and the Terms, the Terms will control, except that any stricter conduct, safety, or operational requirements in these Bylaws will apply in addition to the Terms.
4. Nothing in these Bylaws is intended to waive any non-waivable statutory rights under applicable law. The enforceability of these Bylaws and the Terms will be determined in accordance with the governing law, venue, and dispute resolution provisions set out in the Terms.

30. COMPLIANCE WITH LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

30.1 Purpose

30.1.1 This Section requires every traveler to follow the laws, regulations, and cultural norms of host countries and venues. It protects your safety, preserves vendor relationships, and avoids legal exposure for you and Atomic Trips.

30.2 General Legal Compliance

30.2.1 You must obey all national, regional, and municipal laws, including identification, public order, alcohol service, controlled substances, photography, currency, consumer, and public decency laws.

30.2.2 Where a venue’s private rules are stricter than local law, the venue rules control as a condition of entry.

30.2.3 Ignorance of the law is not a defense. Atomic Trips provides guidance as a courtesy but is not a legal advisor.

30.3 Identification and Police Checks

30.3.1 Carry legally required identification and provide it to authorities when lawfully requested. Some countries require you to carry your passport or a certified copy at all times.

30.3.2 Cooperate respectfully during police checks or transport inspections. Do not record officers where prohibited by law.

30.4 Alcohol and Public Conduct

30.4.1 Public consumption, open container, and public intoxication laws vary. Follow posted signs and staff instructions.

30.4.2 Offensive or disorderly conduct, including loud arguments or harassment in public places, can result in detention or fines. See Section 14 for alcohol rules.

30.5 Controlled Substances and Medications

30.5.1 Possession or use of illegal drugs is prohibited. Penalties can be severe, including detention.

30.5.2 Prescription and over the counter medications that are legal at home may be restricted abroad. Ensure your medications and quantities are lawful in destination and carry documentation. See Section 33.

30.6 Photography, Drones, and Restricted Areas

30.6.1 Many museums, religious sites, military facilities, and border areas restrict photography. Obey signs and guide instructions.

30.6.2 Drone use is regulated. Do not fly drones without local permits. Unauthorized flights may trigger fines or confiscation.

30.6.3 Do not enter staff only corridors, scaffolding zones, or taped off restoration areas.

30.7 Religious Sites and Dress Standards

30.7.1 Dress and conduct expectations apply at churches, temples, mosques, and synagogues. Bring modest attire when requested, remove hats where required, and maintain quiet decorum.

30.7.2 Disrespectful behavior, disruptive photos, or staging skits in sacred spaces is prohibited and may result in removal from the activity without refund.

30.8 Customs, Imports, and Exports

30.8.1 Comply with customs limits on alcohol, tobacco, food, art, antiquities, stones, shells, and wildlife products. Items that seem common can be restricted or require permits.

30.8.2 Declare items when required. You are responsible for duties, VAT, seizures, or fines.

30.8.3 Do not remove cultural artifacts, stones, sand, or flora from protected areas.

30.9 Money Handling and Tipping

30.9.1 Use legal tender and reputable exchange outlets. Street exchanges can be illegal and unsafe.

30.9.2 Respect local tipping norms explained by staff. Forced tipping or scams should be declined politely and reported to staff.

30.10 Transportation Laws and Etiquette

30.10.1 Use seat belts where provided. Respect quiet cars, priority seating, and validated ticket rules on public transport.

30.10.2 Do not obstruct aisles or doors. Follow crew instructions during boarding and disembarkation.

30.10.3 Cycling, scooter, and e bike rules vary. Helmet and speed laws must be followed.

30.11 Protests, Demonstrations, and Crowd Events

30.11.1 Avoid protests and political gatherings. Participation or photographing security responses can expose you to legal risk.

30.11.2 If an unexpected demonstration occurs near the group, follow staff directions to reroute.

30.12 Commercial and Street Vendor Interactions

30.12.1 Aggressive bargaining, bait and switch sales, and counterfeit goods exist in some markets. Buying counterfeit or contraband items is illegal and can result in fines or confiscation.

30.12.2 If a dispute arises, do not escalate. Step away and notify staff.

30.13 Environmental and Heritage Protection

30.13.1 Follow rules that protect fragile environments, including stay on path orders, no flash photography, and no touching artifacts.

30.13.2 Fines for damage or prohibited contact are the traveler’s responsibility.

30.14 Weapons and Replicas

30.14.1 Knife, pepper spray, stun device, and firearm laws vary widely and are often stricter abroad. Do not purchase or carry weapons, weapon like souvenirs, or realistic replicas. See Section 32.

30.14.2 Even decorative blades and antique items may be treated as weapons or be illegal to export.

30.15 LGBTQ and Personal Status Considerations

30.15.1 Laws and social norms regarding sexual orientation, gender identity, and public affection vary by country. Staff can advise on safer practices.

30.15.2 Discretion about public displays of affection may be recommended in conservative areas to avoid unwanted attention.

31. PASSPORTS, VISAS, AND ENTRY COMPLIANCE

31.1 Purpose

31.1.1 This section sets traveler responsibilities for lawful entry, exit, and transit. It protects schedule integrity, vendor contracts, and the experience purchased by all travelers.

31.2 Traveler’s Sole Responsibility

31.2.1 You are solely responsible for obtaining and carrying valid passports, visas, electronic authorizations, entry forms, vaccination proofs, and any other documents required by the destination and transit countries.

31.2.2 Atomic Trips is not a legal advisor and cannot guarantee entry. Guidance provided by staff is informational only.

31.3 Passport Validity and Condition

31.3.1 Your passport must be valid for the duration required by each country you visit or transit. Many countries require at least six months of validity beyond the date of return and at least two blank visa pages.

31.3.2 Passports must be undamaged and machine readable. Torn covers, loose photo pages, or water damage can cause denial of boarding or entry.

31.4 Name Match and Document Consistency

31.4.1 The name on your booking must exactly match the name on your passport. Middle names and hyphenation must be consistent.

31.4.2 If you change your name after booking, contact Atomic Trips immediately to ask whether a vendor name change is possible and what fees apply. Airline, rail, and event tickets may be non changeable.

31.4.3 Bring the same government ID used for any domestic segments or age restricted venues.

31.5 Visas and Electronic Travel Authorizations

31.5.1 Many countries require a visa, an electronic travel authorization, or an online pre arrival registration. Examples include electronic authorizations similar to ESTA or eTA and regional systems with advance approval.

31.5.2 Apply only through official government channels and allow enough time for processing. Third party look alike sites often charge unnecessary fees.

31.5.3 Some nationalities require advance visas that cannot be obtained on arrival. You must confirm requirements for your nationality and itinerary, including transit countries.

31.6 Transit Visas and Airport Transfers

31.6.1 Transiting without clearing immigration may still require a transit visa depending on your nationality and the airport.

31.6.2 Separate tickets on different airlines increase risk because checked bags may need to be reclaimed and rechecked, which can require entry permission.

31.6.3 Missed connections caused by visa issues are the traveler’s responsibility. See Section 13.

31.7 Schengen and Other Regional Rules

31.7.1 Regions that use cumulative stay limits, such as the Schengen Area with its 90 days in any rolling 180 day window rule, require careful counting of prior entries and exits.

31.7.2 Overstays or repeated long stays can trigger fines, bans, or future entry refusals. Maintain your own day count and keep copies of entry and exit stamps.

31.8 Criminal Records, Prior Overstays, and Entry Interviews

31.8.1 Criminal history, prior overstays, deportations, or visa denials can cause refusal of boarding or entry.

31.8.2 Answer border interview questions truthfully and succinctly. Be prepared to show lodging confirmations, onward tickets, and proof of sufficient funds.

31.9 Health Documents and Vaccinations

31.9.1 Some destinations require specific vaccinations, proof of recent immunizations, or health declarations.

31.9.2 Requirements can vary by nationality, recent travel history, and transit points. Verify whether proof must be digital, paper, or in an official language.

31.9.3 Atomic Trips does not provide medical advice. Consult qualified health providers for vaccination and medication guidance.

31.10 Minors and Consent to Travel

31.10.1 For travelers who are minors under the applicable trip tag, carry required parental consent letters, custody documents, or notarized permissions as required by airlines, hotels, or border authorities.

31.10.2 Some countries require consent from non traveling parents or guardians for minors. Failure to present proper documents can result in denial of exit or entry.

31.11 Proof of Funds, Lodging, and Onward Travel

31.11.1 Be ready to present recent bank statements, cash or card proof, hotel confirmations, and onward or return tickets.

31.11.2 Atomic Trips can provide a participation letter upon request that confirms your group lodging and program dates. This letter does not guarantee entry.

31.12 Customs and Import Rules

31.12.1 Declare items as required. Many countries restrict food, plants, seeds, animal products, medications, currency amounts, and antiques.

31.12.2 Duty free allowances and prohibited items vary. Confiscations, fines, and delays caused by customs issues are the traveler’s responsibility.

31.12.3 See Section 32 for weapons and realistic replicas, which must not be purchased or transported.

31.13 Airline Document Checks and Boarding

31.13.1 Carriers may deny boarding if your documents do not meet entry rules. This is a carrier obligation and is outside Atomic Trips control.

31.13.2 If denied boarding, notify Atomic Trips and your insurer immediately. The group program proceeds on schedule.

31.14 Denied Entry or Removal by Authorities

31.14.1 If a traveler is refused entry, detained, or removed by authorities for any reason, all related costs are the traveler’s responsibility, including additional transport, lodging, meals, and penalties.

31.14.2 Atomic Trips will assist with information and notify your emergency contact when permitted by law, but cannot intervene with authorities.

31.14.3 Trip payments are non refundable in these circumstances. See Section 24 and Section 18.

31.15 Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport While Abroad

31.15.1 If your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, notify Atomic Trips staff promptly. We will help you locate your consulate, obtain passport photos, and identify translation resources when feasible.

31.15.2 File a police report if directed by your embassy. Replacement documents and emergency travel certificates may take time and can alter the itinerary.

31.15.3 All costs related to replacement documents, extra nights, or transport are the traveler’s responsibility and may be claimable to travel insurance. See Section 25.

31.16 Document Security and Copies

31.16.1 Carry your passport securely and avoid leaving it in jacket pockets, open bags, or unattended in public spaces.

31.16.2 Keep photocopies or digital images of the data page, visas, and insurance card stored separately and in a secure cloud folder with offline access.

31.16.3 Do not post images of passports or boarding passes online. Mask barcodes and personal data in any shared image.

31.17 Pre Departure Checklist

31.17.1 Confirm passport validity and blank pages.

31.17.2 Confirm visa and electronic authorization needs for each country you visit and transit.

31.17.3 Confirm airline document rules for boarding at each segment.

31.17.4 Enter your insurance policy number and emergency contacts in the app and carry them physically.

31.17.5 Print or download hotel confirmations and the first day meet point.

31.18 Assistance Letters and Confirmations

31.18.1 Upon written request, Atomic Trips can provide a participation letter that lists the program dates, main hotels, and a 24 hour contact number.

31.18.2 Some consulates require confirmed return flights or proof of funds that Atomic Trips cannot supply. These remain the traveler’s responsibility.

31.19 Examples

31.19.1 Acceptable: traveler with a passport valid for eight months after return, two blank pages, completed electronic authorization, printed hotel list, and proof of onward travel.

31.19.2 Unacceptable: traveler with a passport expiring one month after return who arrives at check in expecting the airline to waive destination rules.

31.19.3 Acceptable: traveler transiting an airport that requires a transit visa, who obtained it in advance and remains in the sterile area.

31.19.4 Unacceptable: traveler on separate tickets who must reclaim baggage and recheck but lacks the required entry visa for the transfer country and misses the onward flight.

31.20 Cross References

31.20.1 Section 2 for onboarding documentation and deadlines
Section 7 for mandatory travel insurance and health readiness
Section 13 for missed connections and catch up procedures
Section 24 for cancellation, refunds, and chargebacks
Section 26 for force majeure limits and vendor recoveries
Section 30 for compliance with local laws and customs
Section 32 for weapons and prohibited items

32. WEAPONS, PROHIBITED ITEMS, AND WEAPON LIKE SOUVENIRS

32.1 Purpose

32.1.1 This section protects traveler safety, vendor relationships, and legal compliance by prohibiting weapons and clarifying how look alike or souvenir items are handled. It also explains what happens if a traveler purchases a prohibited item during the trip.

32.2 Core Prohibition

32.2.1 You may not bring, buy, carry, display, transfer, ship, or attempt to ship any weapon or weapon like item during any Atomic Trips program.

32.2.2 Prohibited items include firearms, firearm parts, magazines, ammunition, explosive materials, fireworks, pepper spray and OC products, batons, stun devices, switchblades, gravity knives, fixed blades beyond local legal limits, martial arts weapons, collapsible batons, knuckle devices, realistic replicas, and any item that local law treats as a weapon.

32.2.3 Local definitions vary and are often stricter than at home. When in doubt, the item is not allowed.

32.3 Replicas and Decorative Items

32.3.1 Decorative swords, daggers, chef knives purchased as souvenirs, antique bayonets, ceremonial blades, letter openers that resemble knives, heavy clubs, and realistic prop guns are treated as weapon like items and are prohibited within group spaces.

32.3.2 Even when sold openly in markets, many such items are illegal to carry in public or to export.

32.4 Museum Props, Attractions, and Staged Photos

32.4.1 Do not handle or pose with weapons or realistic replicas at venues or street displays. Do not bring any such items into group photos.

32.4.2 Toy guns with orange tips, airsoft, pellet, or BB devices are prohibited within group spaces.

32.5 Transport and Carrier Rules

32.5.1 Airlines, trains, ferries, and coaches enforce strict rules on weapons, blades, sprays, and explosive materials.

32.5.2 Many items are banned from both carry on and checked baggage. Airline acceptance in checked baggage does not override local possession or export laws.

32.5.3 You are responsible for complying with carrier and security rules. Violations can lead to fines, detention, and missed travel at your expense.

32.6 If You Already Possess a Prohibited Item at Trip Start

32.6.1 Do not bring it to any group environment. Contact staff privately before day one. You must dispose of the item safely and lawfully before participation can continue. Costs and logistics are your responsibility.

32.7 If You Purchase a Weapon or Weapon Like Souvenir During the Trip

32.7.1 Do not bring the item to any group environment, transport, venue, or hotel contracted through Atomic Trips.

32.7.2 Notify the Trip Lead immediately. Staff will not store, transport, or hold the item.

32.7.3 Your options are limited to the following, subject to local law and vendor consent:

32.7.4 Same day return to the merchant for a refund or store credit. You must handle the conversation and transport independently.

32.7.5 Immediate surrender to local authorities at a police station if the item is illegal to possess. Atomic Trips cannot guarantee return or any refund.

32.7.6 Destruction or disposal through a lawful channel where available. Proof of disposal may be requested by staff.

32.7.7 Shipping the item home is generally not permitted. International and domestic carriers frequently refuse weapons, blades, sprays, and replicas. Customs and export permits are complex and often unavailable. Atomic Trips will not assist with shipping and will not list our hotel or staff addresses for deliveries.

32.8 Searches and Venue Screening

32.8.1 Many venues have bag checks or magnetometers. Security may confiscate prohibited items and can refer possession to police.

32.8.2 If a traveler causes a security incident, staff may exclude the traveler from the activity and seek cost recovery for delays or penalties.

32.9 Consequences for Violations

32.9.1 Possession, purchase, attempted shipping, display, or transport of a prohibited item is grounds for immediate exclusion from activities or removal from the trip under Sections 11 and 18.

32.9.2 No refunds or credits are issued for missed services due to a violation.

32.9.3 Any fines, confiscations, legal fees, shipping costs, or vendor penalties are the traveler’s responsibility.

32.9.4 If a venue or carrier refuses service to the entire group due to one traveler’s item, the offending traveler is responsible for all related costs and may be removed from the trip.

32.10 Knives and Culinary Classes

32.10.1 If a cooking class provides knives or tools, they must remain on site. Do not remove class knives, whetstones, or similar tools from the venue.

32.10.2 Knife purchases for home kitchens are subject to the same rules as above. Assume they are prohibited in group environments and transport.

32.11 Pepper Spray and Self Defense Items

32.11.1 Many countries classify sprays, stun devices, and batons as weapons. These items are prohibited in all group spaces and are frequently illegal to import or possess.

32.11.2 Do not attempt to buy or carry them as personal protection. Use common sense safety practices and group movement protocols instead.

32.12 Cultural and Religious Items

32.12.1 Some traditional items may meet the legal definition of a blade or weapon. Souvenir versions are still prohibited in group spaces and transport and may be illegal to export.

32.12.2 If in doubt, do not buy the item.

32.13 Hotel and Property Rules

32.13.1 Hotels may expel guests for possessing weapons or replicas. Any room eviction or fees arising from a violation are the traveler’s responsibility.

32.14 Staff Rights and Field Decisions

32.14.1 If staff reasonably believes a traveler has a prohibited item, staff may instruct the traveler to step aside and resolve the issue before rejoining the group.

32.14.2 Refusal to comply may result in immediate removal from the trip.

32.15 Examples

32.15.1 Unacceptable: purchasing a decorative dagger at a market and bringing it to dinner in a shopping bag to show others.

32.15.2 Unacceptable: buying pepper spray at a kiosk and placing it in a day bag for a night walk.

32.15.3 Acceptable: taking a photo of a museum display with signage permitting non flash photography from the visitor path.

32.15.4 Unacceptable: arranging a vendor to mail a replica firearm to the hotel under a false description and asking staff to sign for it.

32.16 Documentation and Reporting

32.16.1 Atomic Trips may document any weapons incident, including time, location, vendor details, and security response, to protect the group and to cooperate with authorities if requested.

32.17 Cross References

32.17.1 Section 10 for respect toward staff and immediate compliance with instructions
Section 11 for right to refuse participation and immediate removal criteria
Section 13 for catch up rules if you must step out to dispose of an item
Section 18 for non refundable removal and cost shifting
Section 26 for force majeure limits, which do not excuse possession violations
Section 30 for compliance with local laws and customs
Section 33 for medications and import rules that differ by country

33. PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS, OTC DRUGS, AND IMPORT RULES

33.1 Purpose

33.1.1 This section explains how to lawfully carry and use medications while traveling, what documentation to bring, how to store and transport medicines, and what substances are prohibited even if legal at home.

33.2 Traveler Responsibilities

33.2.1 You are solely responsible for confirming that your prescription and over the counter medications are legal in destination and transit countries, and for carrying proper documentation.

33.2.2 Atomic Trips is not a medical provider and does not give medical advice. Staff cannot carry, store, or administer medications.

33.3 Legality Varies by Country

33.3.1 Some medicines that are common at home are controlled or prohibited abroad. Examples include stimulant ADHD medications, certain anxiety or sleep medications, cough syrups with codeine, strong decongestants with pseudoephedrine, and hormone therapies.

33.3.2 Medical cannabis, CBD oils, hemp products, vape liquids with THC, and edibles are frequently illegal to import or possess. Do not bring them.

33.3.3 If a country bans a medication that you require, consult your clinician for lawful alternatives before booking.

33.4 Quantity Limits and Original Packaging

33.4.1 Carry only a personal supply consistent with the trip length plus a prudent buffer. Excess quantities may be treated as import for resale.

33.4.2 Keep all medicines in original pharmacy containers with your name, drug name, dose, and prescribing clinician visible. Use factory sealed packaging for OTC items when possible.

33.4.3 Do not mix different pills in a single unlabeled bottle. Travel pill organizers are acceptable for daily use but should be backed up by original containers for customs and security checks.

33.5 Documentation to Carry

33.5.1 A printed prescription or doctor’s letter that lists generic drug names, doses, and indications.

33.5.2 For controlled medicines or injections, a letter that explains medical necessity, the device used, and the expected quantity.

33.5.3 Translations of the letter into the destination language are recommended where practical.

33.5.4 A copy of your travel insurance card and emergency assistance number.

33.6 Security Screening and Needles

33.6.1 Advise security officers that you carry medically necessary liquids, gels, syringes, pens, pumps, or sharps. Present items for inspection in a clear bag with documentation ready.

33.6.2 Sharps must remain capped and stored in sturdy travel cases. Use hotel or pharmacy sharps containers for disposal. Do not discard needles in regular trash.

33.7 Cold Chain and Storage

33.7.1 If a medication must be kept cool, bring an insulated pouch and cold packs that meet airline and security rules. Many hotels can store a small cold pack for you but cannot store prescription drugs.

33.7.2 Do not rely on minibars that auto charge by weight. Request a small refrigerator when available or use ice from hotel machines if permitted.

33.8 Daily Carriage

33.8.1 Keep a day’s supply of essential medications in your personal day bag, not in checked luggage or coach holds.

33.8.2 Split your overall supply between two bags in case one is lost. Record refill information and your clinician’s contact details.

33.9 Refills and Replacements Abroad

33.9.1 Foreign pharmacies may not recognize an out of country prescription or may dispense different strengths under different brand names.

33.9.2 If medicine is lost, stolen, or spoiled, staff can help you locate a reputable pharmacy or clinic but cannot guarantee supply. Replacement costs are the traveler’s responsibility. Keep receipts for insurance claims. See Section 25.

33.10 No Sharing or Trading

33.10.1 Never share prescription medicines with other travelers. Never accept or purchase prescription drugs from unverified sources. This includes painkillers, sedatives, antibiotics, or performance drugs.

33.10.2 Possession of someone else’s prescription can be treated as illegal possession.

33.11 Use and Impairment

33.11.1 Follow label directions and be aware of side effects that can affect balance, heat tolerance, or alertness.

33.11.2 Alcohol can interact adversely with many medicines. Choose non alcoholic alternatives when there is any interaction risk. See Section 14.

33.12 Allergies and Ingredient Differences

33.12.1 Formulations and inactive ingredients vary by country. If you have allergies to dyes or fillers, carry your known safe version from home and a doctor’s note describing the sensitivity.

33.13 Herbal Products and Supplements

33.13.1 Many countries regulate supplements differently. Some ingredients are restricted or banned. Import rules for powders, teas, and tinctures vary and can trigger inspections. When in doubt, do not bring them.

33.14 Airport and Border Scenarios

33.14.1 Expect questions about quantities or purposes. Answer calmly and show your documentation.

33.14.2 If a medicine is prohibited in that jurisdiction, authorities may confiscate it and may impose fines. Atomic Trips cannot intervene with authorities. See Section 30.

33.15 Mailing or Shipping Medications

33.15.1 Do not ship medications to hotels or to staff. International shipment of medications is often illegal without import permits and will be rejected or seized.

33.15.2 Coordinate refills only through lawful, pre approved channels before departure.

33.16 Loss, Theft, or Damage of Medications

33.16.1 Treat medication loss as a priority. Notify staff promptly for help locating pharmacies or clinics.

33.16.2 File a police report for theft when appropriate and document purchases for insurance. See Section 16 and Section 17.

33.17 Special Devices and Medical Equipment

33.17.1 For CPAP and similar devices, bring adapters, extension cords, and any necessary filters or distilled water options. Hotels may not supply medical grade water.

33.17.2 For pumps or wearable injectors, carry spare infusion sets, batteries, and tapes. Keep manuals offline on your phone.

33.18 Minors and Controlled Medicines

33.18.1 If traveling on a 14 years old and older departure with a minor, the guardian must manage the minor’s medications and documentation. Some countries require notarized parental permission for controlled medicines carried for a minor.

33.19 Examples

33.19.1 Acceptable: carrying a three week supply of a prescription in original labeled bottles, plus a doctor’s letter, and a small ice pouch for a temperature sensitive pen.

33.19.2 Unacceptable: bringing six months of mixed pills in a single unlabeled organizer and claiming they are “vitamins” at customs.

33.19.3 Acceptable: informing security you carry prefilled syringes with a letter and presenting them in a clear case.

33.19.4 Unacceptable: packing pepper spray and CBD gummies “for safety” and “sleep” where those items are illegal.

33.19.5 Acceptable: asking staff to point you to a reputable pharmacy after a lost bag, then contacting your insurer about reimbursement.

33.19.6 Unacceptable: asking staff to store narcotics in a staff bag or to distribute pills to other travelers.

33.20 Cross References

33.20.1 Section 7 for essential eligibility, self care, and required insurance
Section 14 for alcohol interaction and substance policies
Section 16 and Section 17 for safeguarding, loss, and recovery steps
Section 25 for Medical Emergency Release and care coordination
Section 30 for compliance with local laws and customs
Section 31 for passports, visas, and entry compliance
Section 32 for weapons and prohibited items, including cannabis and sprays

34. DATA SECURITY, CYBER HYGIENE, AND DEVICE ETIQUETTE

34.1 Purpose

34.1.1 This section protects travelers and Atomic Trips from avoidable cyber risks, data leaks, and device related disruptions. It sets practical standards for secure connectivity, account protection, and respectful device use during group programming.

34.2 Scope

34.2.1 Applies to phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, wearables, and any device that connects to networks or stores sensitive information, including the Atomic Trips app and Official Channels.

34.3 Secure Connectivity

34.3.1 Prefer trusted networks. Use cellular data, roaming packs, or eSIMs over unknown public Wi Fi. When public Wi Fi is the only option, use a well regarded VPN.

34.3.2 Hotspot etiquette. If you create a hotspot, set a strong password and disable it when not in use. Do not share hotspot credentials beyond your room or immediate party.

34.3.3 Captive portals. Many hotels and cafes use sign in portals. Do not enter sensitive credentials on captive portals. Avoid banking or high risk logins on public Wi Fi.

34.3.4 Bluetooth discipline. Keep Bluetooth off unless actively pairing. Remove old rental car, speaker, or headset pairings that may auto connect.

34.4 Account and Device Hardening

34.4.1 Multi factor authentication. Enable MFA on email, cloud storage, banking, and the Atomic Trips app where available.

34.4.2 Strong passcodes. Use a six digit or longer device passcode or alphanumeric password. Avoid simple patterns.

34.4.3 Auto lock. Set auto lock to a short interval. Lock devices before handing them to others to share a photo or map.

34.4.4 Updates. Install the latest security updates and the current version of the Atomic Trips app before departure. Avoid major version upgrades while on trip unless directed for security.

34.4.5 Find my device. Turn on device location recovery and remote wipe features.

34.5 Handling Sensitive Information

34.5.1 Limit what you carry. Do not store full scans of passports, tickets, or payment cards in your photo roll without screen lock and MFA. Prefer a secure notes app with encryption.

34.5.2 Mask identifiers. If posting travel images, hide barcodes, booking numbers, room numbers, and QR codes.

34.5.3 Payment safety. Use contactless payments where available. If entering card data on a merchant site, verify the URL and certificate.

34.5.4 Shared computers. Do not log in to personal email or financial accounts on hotel business centers or borrowed laptops.

34.5.5 Screenshots and forwards. Do not screenshot internal group messages and forward them outside Official Channels. See Section 27.

34.6 App and Messaging Conduct

34.6.1 Official Channels only. Use the Atomic Trips app and the designated WhatsApp group for coordination. Do not spin up side groups that fragment information.

34.6.2 Pinned messages. Read pinned messages and documents inside the app rather than re posting or duplicating them.

34.6.3 Voice notes. Keep voice notes short and situationally appropriate. Avoid voice notes during briefings, queues, and quiet venues.

34.6.4 Attachments. Do not upload files that contain malware, macros, or unknown executables. PDFs and images should come from reputable sources.

34.7 Device Etiquette in Group Settings

34.7.1 Briefings and guided tours. Silence devices and avoid speakerphone in public areas. Take calls away from the group.

34.7.2 Photography courtesies. Step to the side to frame shots. Do not block aisles, altars, or doorways. Respect venue rules on flash and tripods.

34.7.3 Headphones. Use headphones for audio guides and reels. Do not play audio aloud on transport or in restaurants.

34.7.4 Battery planning. Carry a power bank. Do not unplug venue equipment or emergency devices to charge personal phones.

34.7.5 Night hours. Avoid notification sounds in rooms and hallways after quiet hours.

34.8 Phishing and Scams

34.8.1 Red flags. Be wary of emails or texts about delivery issues, fines, tolls, or missed packages. Avoid links to log in pages that arrive unexpectedly.

34.8.2 In person scams. Do not scan random QR codes in bars or on flyers. Some codes lead to payment pages or malicious apps.

34.8.3 Verification rule. If a message appears to be from Atomic Trips but asks for payment or credentials, verify through the app Help Center before acting. Atomic Trips will never request your password.

34.9 Shared Media and Storage

34.9.1 Cloud albums. If you create a shared album for the group, set view permissions and avoid uploading images that reveal room numbers, boarding passes, or minors without consent.

34.9.2 Storage hygiene. Clear caches and downloads that contain sensitive files after you no longer need them.

34.9.3 Drones and large files. Drones require written approval under Section 21 and Section 22. Large uploads must not saturate hotel networks needed for operations.

34.10 Lost, Stolen, or Compromised Devices

34.10.1 Immediate actions. Notify staff, trigger device location, and initiate remote lock or wipe if necessary. Change passwords for email and cloud services.

34.10.2 App session control. Use the Atomic Trips app settings to log out other sessions if a device is lost.

34.10.3 Police report. File a report when appropriate to support insurance. See Section 17 for recovery steps and Section 16 for responsibility limits.

34.11 Data Minimization with Vendors

34.11.1 At check in. Hotels may request passports for registration. Provide only what is legally required. Decline photocopies where local law allows and request a visual check instead.

34.11.2 Receipts. Do not leave receipts that display full card numbers unattended on tables or bars.

34.11.3 Free Wi Fi sign ups. Use a secondary email for non essential sign ups. Avoid linking social media accounts to captive portals.

34.12 Malware, Charging, and Accessories

34.12.1 Charging ports. Prefer your own charger and cable. Avoid unknown public USB hubs. Use a data block adapter if you must plug into a public port.

34.12.2 Sideloading. Do not install apps from unofficial stores or websites.

34.12.3 Rental car systems. When connecting to rental car infotainment, disable contacts and message syncing. Delete the device profile before returning the vehicle.

34.13 Content Boundaries and Respect

34.13.1 No doxxing. Never publish another traveler’s personal information, flight details, or room number.

34.13.2 No hidden recording. Do not place recording devices in rooms or private spaces.

34.13.3 Synthetic media. Do not post AI altered images or audio that misrepresents staff or travelers. See Section 21 and Section 22.

34.14 Compliance and Enforcement

34.14.1 Staff directives. Staff may ask you to disable a hotspot, turn down audio, or remove a risky post that reveals sensitive details.

34.14.2 Consequences. Repeated or serious violations may result in activity exclusion, app access limits, or trip removal without refund under Sections 18 and 20.

34.14.3 Costs. Any vendor fines, network surcharges, or damages caused by misuse are the traveler’s responsibility.

34.15 Examples

34.15.1 Acceptable: using a VPN on hotel Wi Fi to upload photos to a private album with location tags disabled.

34.15.2 Unacceptable: live streaming the briefing that shows tomorrow’s meet point and rooming list on a projector.

34.15.3 Acceptable: creating a hotspot for your roommate with a strong password and turning it off after the upload.

34.15.4 Unacceptable: connecting to a free kiosk PC to log in to your bank and forgetting to log out.

34.15.5 Acceptable: enabling MFA and remote wipe before departure and testing the features.

34.15.6 Unacceptable: scanning a QR code at a bar to get “free shots” and entering your card number on the linked page.

34.16 Cross References

34.16.1 Section 12 for Communication and Personal Responsibility
Section 16 and Section 17 for personal belongings and lost item procedures
Section 21 for Media and Privacy Consent
Section 22 for Social Content and Brand Guidelines
Section 27 for Confidentiality and Professional Conduct
Section 35 for Data Privacy and Information Use
Section 38 for limitations of liability

35. DATA PRIVACY AND INFORMATION USE

35.1 Purpose

35.1.1 This section explains what information Atomic Trips collects, why we collect it, how we use and protect it, when we share it, how long we keep it, and the choices and rights available to you.

35.2 Scope

35.2.1 Applies to data collected through the Atomic Trips app, website, booking forms, payment portals, WhatsApp and other Official Channels, on trip operations, surveys, and support tickets. This section operates alongside Section 27 on confidentiality and Section 34 on cyber hygiene.

35.3 What We Collect

35.3.1 Identity and contact. Name, address, email, phone, date of birth, passport or ID details, emergency contact.

35.3.2 Travel profile. Rooming preferences, dietary notes, allergies disclosed, mobility notes, insurance policy numbers, flight details, loyalty numbers you choose to store, visa status confirmations.

35.3.3 Payment and billing. Card token from our processor, transaction history, invoices and credits. We do not store full card numbers.

35.3.4 Operational data. App login logs, device type, IP address, notification tokens, message acknowledgements, read receipts where enabled.

35.3.5 Content you provide. Messages in Official Channels, Help Center tickets, surveys, reviews, testimonial submissions, and media you share for official use.

35.3.6 Incident and compliance records. Notes, statements, and limited evidentiary materials created under Sections 18 and 20 when enforcement is necessary.

35.3.7 Marketing preferences. Opt ins for email or push campaigns, contest entries, and referral tracking.

35.4 Why We Collect and How We Use

35.4.1 Contract performance. Create and manage bookings, rooming, manifests, vendor lists, tickets, and day of operations.

35.4.2 Safety and logistics. Coordinate meet points, headcounts, emergency contacts, and medical handoffs as described in Section 25.

35.4.3 Member services. Provide app features, reminders, updates, and customer support.

35.4.4 Payments. Bill deposits, installments, add ons, penalties for damages you caused, and refunds under Sections 23 and 24.

35.4.5 Compliance and enforcement. Investigate and document violations, manage removals, and handle disputes under Sections 18 and 20.

35.4.6 Legal and security. Detect fraud, protect the platform, respond to lawful requests, and enforce Section 27 and Section 27A.

35.4.7 Analytics and improvement. Measure trip operations and app performance using aggregated or de identified data where possible.

35.4.8 Marketing with consent. Send trip announcements and member offers when you opt in. You can opt out at any time.

35.5 Our Legal Bases for Processing

35.5.1 Contract necessity. To deliver services you request.

35.5.2 Legitimate interests. To secure systems, improve operations, and prevent fraud in ways that do not override your rights.

35.5.3 Consent. For optional marketing, certain health disclosures you choose to provide, and use of traveler submitted media.

35.5.4 Legal obligations. To maintain records required by law and to respond to lawful requests.

35.6 What We Do Not Do

35.6.1 We do not sell your personal information for money.

35.6.2 We do not publish passport numbers, room numbers, or payment details.

35.6.3 We do not request or store social security numbers unless legally required for specific payments or tax forms.

35.7 When We Share Information

35.7.1 Vendors that deliver your trip. Hotels, transport providers, guides, activity venues, and restaurants receive only what they need to perform.

35.7.2 Payment processors. Card networks and processors receive billing and fraud screening data.

35.7.3 Technology providers. Cloud hosting, email, app analytics, and customer support systems under confidentiality and security obligations.

35.7.4 Insurance and medical providers. On your request or in an emergency, we may share limited details to coordinate care under Section 25.

35.7.5 Authorities and legal. When required by law or necessary to protect safety or enforce our rights, including arbitration filings under Section 28.

35.7.6 Business transfers. In a merger, acquisition, or restructuring, information may transfer subject to this section.

35.8 International Transfers

35.8.1 Your information may be stored or processed in other countries with different data protection laws. We use commercially reasonable safeguards such as contractual commitments, access controls, and encryption in transit and at rest where appropriate.

35.9 Security Measures

35.9.1 We use layered security including least privilege access, password policies, transport layer encryption, encrypted backups, and monitoring for suspicious activity. No system is perfectly secure. You must also follow Section 34 to protect your own devices and accounts.

35.10 Retention

35.10.1 Operational records. Kept for the life of the booking plus a commercially reasonable period for accounting and dispute purposes.

35.10.2 Enforcement records. Kept for a period sufficient to administer membership decisions and to defend against claims, then archived or deleted.

35.10.3 Marketing records. Kept while you remain opted in and deleted or anonymized after you opt out, subject to suppression list requirements.

35.10.4 Incident media and chat logs. Retained only as long as needed for safety, training, audit, or legal defense.

35.11 Your Choices and Rights

35.11.1 Access and correction. You may request a copy of your profile and correct inaccuracies.

35.11.2 Deletion. You may request deletion of certain data. We may retain data we are legally required to keep or need to protect our rights, including enforcement records under Sections 18 and 20.

35.11.3 Portability. On request we can provide a basic export of your profile fields where technically feasible.

35.11.4 Marketing opt out. Unsubscribe links are provided in emails and in app settings.

35.11.5 Cookie and analytics controls. Browser and device settings can limit cookies and ad identifiers. App settings allow you to control notifications.

35.11.6 Jurisdictional rights. Depending on where you live, you may have additional rights under local law. We will honor valid requests consistent with identity verification and legal limits.

35.12 How to Exercise Rights and Contact Us

35.12.1 Submit requests through the Help Center in the app or by email to the address listed on your booking confirmation.

35.12.2 For arbitration or legal notices, use the notice method and mailing address set in Section 28.

35.12.3 We will verify your identity and respond within a reasonable time consistent with applicable law.

35.13 Children and Minors

35.13.1 Our standard trips are 21 years old and older. Select holiday departures are 14 years old and older with a parent or legal guardian under Section 29.

35.13.2 We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under the minimum age permitted by law without a parent or guardian’s involvement.

35.14 WhatsApp, Groups, and User Generated Content

35.14.1 Messages in Official Channels may be retained as part of the operational record.

35.14.2 You are responsible for what you post. Do not share other travelers’ personal data without permission. See Section 22 for social guidelines and Section 27 for confidentiality.

35.15 Media and Likeness

35.15.1 Media captured by staff is handled under Section 21. Opt outs and takedown requests are honored where feasible, subject to limits described there.

35.15.2 Traveler submitted content used by Atomic Trips is governed by the license you grant when you submit it.

35.16 Cookies and Tracking

35.16.1 Our website and app may use cookies, SDKs, and analytics to operate, remember preferences, and measure performance. You can manage settings in your browser or device. Disabling certain tools may limit functionality.

35.17 Third Party Links and Services

35.17.1 Links to airline check in, insurance portals, or vendor sites are provided for convenience. Those services have their own privacy terms. Atomic Trips is not responsible for third party privacy practices.

35.18 Data Incidents

35.18.1 If we discover a security incident that affects your personal information, we will investigate, take containment steps, and notify you and authorities when required by law.

35.18.2 You agree to notify us promptly if you suspect unauthorized access to your account or if your device with app access is lost or stolen.

35.19 Special Categories and Health Information

35.19.1 Health and dietary information is collected only to the extent you choose to provide it for safety and operational planning. We do not create medical profiles.

35.19.2 Do not upload clinical records beyond what is necessary for the trip. Sensitive disclosures are voluntary and can be withdrawn, though that may limit our ability to accommodate.

35.20 Data Minimization and Need to Know

35.20.1 We limit internal access to those who need information to perform their job. Vendors receive only the minimum necessary to deliver contracted services.

35.21 Updates to This Section

35.21.1 We may update this section prospectively to reflect legal or operational changes. Material updates will be posted in the app and emailed to members. Continued participation after the effective date signifies acceptance.

35.22 Examples

35.22.1 Acceptable: uploading your insurance policy number and emergency contact in the app profile and opting in to push notifications for schedule changes.

35.22.2 Unacceptable: posting a screenshot of the rooming list in a public Facebook group.

35.22.3 Acceptable: requesting deletion of marketing preferences while agreeing that enforcement records related to a prior incident remain on file as permitted by law.

35.22.4 Unacceptable: demanding that we erase payment history that is required for accounting and tax compliance.

35.23 Cross References

35.23.1 Section 12 for communication and acknowledgements
Section 21 for media consent and takedowns
Section 22 for social content and brand use
Section 23 and Section 24 for payments and refunds
Section 27 and Section 27A for confidentiality and non compete
Section 28 for notices, jurisdiction, and arbitration
Section 34 for cyber hygiene and device etiquette

36. ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF CLAIMS

36.1 Purpose

36.1.1 Travel and group activities involve hazards that cannot be eliminated without destroying the value of the experience. This section explains those hazards, confirms that participation is voluntary, sets the scope of the risks you accept, and contains a release of certain claims against Atomic Trips within the limits allowed by law.

36.2 Voluntary Participation and Capability

36.2.1 You choose to participate of your own free will and confirm that you meet the essential eligibility requirements described in Section 7 with or without reasonable accommodations that do not materially alter the program.

36.2.2 You are responsible for your own preparation, fitness, hydration, and self care and for following staff instructions intended to protect safety and schedule integrity.

36.3 Inherent and Unavoidable Risks

36.3.1 By joining, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks of domestic and international travel and group activities, including without limitation:

36.3.2 Illness, food borne and water borne exposures, allergies, and communicable diseases.

36.3.3 Fatigue, heat or cold stress, dehydration, altitude effects, and motion sickness.

36.3.4 Slips, trips, falls, stairs, uneven terrain, crowd surges, and transportation movements on coaches, trains, boats, and aircraft.

36.3.5 Weather, natural events, and environmental conditions.

36.3.6 Delays, cancellations, overbookings, strikes, and schedule changes by carriers or venues.

36.3.7 Crime risks including pickpocketing, theft, fraud, and data compromise.

36.3.8 Differences in building codes, accessibility standards, medical systems, and emergency services.

36.3.9 Vendor errors, shortfalls in service, or last minute closures beyond Atomic Trips control.

36.4 Third Party Providers and Independent Contractors

36.4.1 Airlines, rail operators, bus companies, rideshares, ferries, hotels, restaurants, attractions, guides, activity providers, and equipment rental firms are independent contractors and are not agents or employees of Atomic Trips.

36.4.2 Atomic Trips is not responsible for their acts, omissions, negligence, or property rules. Participation in any activity operated by a third party is at your own risk. See Section 40 and Section 41.

36.5 Your Duty of Care to Yourself and the Group

36.5.1 Follow staff directives, meet posted timings, use required safety equipment, and heed venue rules and warnings.

36.5.2 Disclose relevant health conditions in the Traveler Profile that could affect emergency response and carry your own medications and devices.

36.5.3 Refrain from alcohol or substances when an activity requires balance, attention, or coordination. See Section 14.

36.5.4 If you feel unwell or unsafe, notify staff immediately and step out as described in Section 13 and Section 25.

36.6 Release of Claims Against Atomic Trips

36.6.1 To the fullest extent permitted by law, you agree to release and discharge Atomic Trips, its owners, officers, employees, contractors, and agents from any and all claims, demands, damages, or causes of action arising out of or related to your participation, except to the extent caused by the proven gross negligence or willful misconduct of Atomic Trips. This release includes, without limitation:

36.6.2 Claims based on the inherent risks listed above.

36.6.3 Claims arising from acts or omissions of independent contractors and third party providers.

36.6.4 Claims for loss, theft, or damage to personal property as addressed in Section 16.

36.6.5 Claims for schedule changes, substitutions, or force majeure events as addressed in Section 26.

36.6.6 Claims for incidental or consequential damages to the extent disclaimed in Section 38.

36.6.7 Nothing in this section releases claims that cannot be released under applicable law. Nevada law and any mandatory protections for consumers apply as set by Section 28 governing law.

36.7 Medical Treatment Authorization and Release

36.7.1 In an emergency, you authorize Atomic Trips to seek or arrange medical evaluation and transport as described in Section 25.

36.7.2 You release Atomic Trips from liability for the good faith selection of medical providers or transport options and for the disclosure of limited information necessary to obtain care.

36.7.3 All medical costs are your responsibility and are typically addressed by required travel insurance under Section 7.

36.8 Equipment and Personal Gear

36.8.1 You accept responsibility for the selection, fit, and maintenance of any personal gear you bring, including footwear, weather layers, and medical devices.

36.8.2 Where an activity provider issues safety equipment, you agree to use it as instructed. Refusal may result in exclusion without refund. See Section 18.

36.9 Transportation and Movement

36.9.1 You understand that movements involve boarding and exiting vehicles, handling luggage, crossing streets, and navigating crowded platforms. You accept the risks of these movements and agree to follow staff and crew instructions.

36.10 Free Time and Optional Activities

36.10.1 Activities undertaken during free time or booked directly with third parties are outside the scope of the group program and are at your own risk.

36.10.2 Atomic Trips is not a party to contracts you make with third parties during free time and is not responsible for their performance or safety standards. See Section 41.

36.11 Photography and Recording

36.11.1 You accept that incidental capture of your image and voice may occur during official programming and consent to the uses permitted in Section 21, subject to opt out procedures stated there.

36.12 Indemnification Crossover

36.12.1 You understand that your separate duty to indemnify Atomic Trips for certain losses you cause is set out in Section 37. This Section 36 is a release of claims against Atomic Trips. Section 37 is your promise to protect Atomic Trips if your conduct causes loss.

36.13 Acknowledgment of Insurance

36.13.1 You acknowledge the requirement to carry travel insurance as described in Section 7 and that insurance is your primary remedy for many losses or disruptions, including trip interruption, delay, baggage issues, and medical costs.

36.14 Severability

36.14.1 If any portion of this section is found invalid under applicable law, the remaining provisions remain enforceable to the maximum extent permitted.

36.15 Examples

36.15.1 Acceptable: declining a cliffside viewpoint in windy conditions and rejoining at the café, understanding that skipping the viewpoint does not entitle you to a refund.

36.15.2 Unacceptable: walking off a marked path to take a photo on wet stones, slipping, and later alleging that Atomic Trips guaranteed hazard free terrain.

36.15.3 Acceptable: using a rail as a handhold on historic steps and informing staff of lightheadedness before a climb so pacing can be adjusted for you to rejoin safely.

36.15.4 Unacceptable: ignoring a guide’s instruction to keep phones away while boarding a boat, dropping a phone in the gap, and demanding compensation from Atomic Trips.

36.16 Cross References

36.16.1 Section 7 for essential eligibility, self care, and required insurance
Section 14 for alcohol and substance guidelines
Section 16 and Section 17 for personal property and lost and found
Section 18 for non refundable removal and payment consequences
Section 19 for liability disclaimer
Section 26 for force majeure and vendor recovery limits
Section 28 for jurisdiction and arbitration
Section 40 and Section 41 for third party providers and optional activities

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37. INDEMNIFICATION

37.1 Purpose

37.1.1 This section explains when and how a traveler must defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Atomic Trips and related parties from losses caused by the traveler’s acts or omissions. It preserves operations, protects vendor relationships, and allocates costs fairly.

37.2 Parties Protected

37.2.1 The indemnity covers Atomic Trips LLC, its owners, officers, employees, contractors, trip leads, agents, successors, and assigns.

37.3 Your Indemnity Obligation

37.3.1 To the fullest extent permitted by law, you agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the parties protected above from and against any and all claims, demands, causes of action, losses, liabilities, fines, penalties, costs, and expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expert fees, arising out of or related to:

37.3.2 Your breach of these bylaws, the Member Agreement, trip brief rules, or lawful staff instructions.

37.3.3 Your negligence, reckless conduct, or intentional misconduct.

37.3.4 Your violation of local laws, venue rules, intellectual property rights, privacy rights, or publicity rights.

37.3.5 Your property damage to hotels, coaches, boats, trains, venues, restaurants, or equipment, including cleaning or alarm fees.

37.3.6 Your defamation, harassment, discrimination, or unlawful recording of staff, vendors, or travelers.

37.3.7 Your possession, purchase, display, or attempted shipment of prohibited items under Section 32.

37.3.8 Your social postings that disclose confidential information, trade secrets, vendor contacts, or operational details in breach of Section 27 or Section 22.

37.3.9 Your chargebacks initiated in breach of Section 24 that cause investigation costs or bank fees.

37.3.10 Your organization or promotion of competing group trips in breach of Section 27A.

37.3.11 Your failure to control visitors or guests you invite or attempt to invite into group spaces, rooms, or vehicles.

37.4 Third Party Claims and Vendor Demands

37.4.1 If a vendor, venue, carrier, authority, or third party asserts a claim against Atomic Trips because of your conduct, you will indemnify Atomic Trips for that claim to the extent caused by you.

37.4.2 Examples include a hotel billing for room damage, a restaurant assessing a disruption fee, or a venue seeking compensation for schedule impacts due to your violation of rules.

37.5 Duty to Defend and Control of Defense

37.5.1 Upon written notice from Atomic Trips of a claim that appears subject to this indemnity, you will promptly provide a defense at your expense using counsel reasonably acceptable to Atomic Trips.

37.5.2 Atomic Trips may elect to assume its own defense with counsel of its choice. If Atomic Trips elects to control the defense, you will reimburse reasonable defense costs to the extent the claim is within your indemnity.

37.5.3 You may not settle any claim in a manner that imposes injunctive relief, admissions, or ongoing obligations on Atomic Trips without written consent.

37.6 Tender, Cooperation, and Information

37.6.1 You must respond promptly to a tender of defense, cooperate in good faith, and provide documents, screenshots, statements, or other information reasonably needed to evaluate or defend the claim.

37.6.2 Failure to cooperate may itself constitute a breach and may increase your responsibility for costs.

37.7 Allocation Where Multiple Parties Contribute

37.7.1 If a loss results from the combined acts or omissions of you and one or more other persons, your indemnity applies proportionally to the extent of your contribution to the loss.

37.7.2 Nothing in this section requires you to indemnify Atomic Trips for its own proven gross negligence or willful misconduct.

37.8 Mitigation and Cost Control

37.8.1 Atomic Trips will take commercially reasonable steps to mitigate losses and avoid unnecessary costs. You agree to do the same.

37.8.2 Where quick action reduces risk to the group, Atomic Trips may pay a vendor charge, cleaning fee, or rebooking cost and then invoice you for reimbursement consistent with Section 23.

37.9 Security Deposit and Charge Authorization

37.9.1 Consistent with Section 23, you authorize Atomic Trips to charge the payment method on file for indemnified amounts that are due and documented in writing, including vendor penalties, damages you caused, and reasonable administrative expenses. An itemized statement will follow any charge.

37.10 Relationship to Insurance

37.10.1 Required travel insurance under Section 7 is your primary remedy for covered losses. Your indemnity does not shift the cost of your insured losses to Atomic Trips.

37.10.2 If Atomic Trips is paid or credited by an insurer or vendor for a loss you caused, you remain responsible for any uncovered amounts such as deductibles, exclusions, or non recoverable administrative expenses.

37.11 Notice of Claims Timeline

37.11.1 Atomic Trips will provide written notice of any claim subject to this section within a reasonable time after becoming aware of it. Delay in notice will not relieve you of obligations except to the extent you are materially prejudiced by the delay.

37.12 Survival

37.12.1 Your obligations under this section survive the trip, membership termination, refunds, and any dispute, and remain in effect to the maximum period permitted by law.

37.13 Examples

37.13.1 Property damage. You smoke on a hotel balcony in violation of Section 15 and the property assesses a cleaning and odor remediation fee. You indemnify Atomic Trips for the fee and any related charges.

37.13.2 Confidential leak. You post the run sheet with private vendor emails in a public group, leading to spam complaints and a vendor cancellation fee. You indemnify Atomic Trips for the fee and reasonable mitigation costs.

37.13.3 Weapons incident. You purchase a replica firearm and security halts the group transfer. Rebooking and delay penalties are charged by the coach company. You indemnify Atomic Trips for those costs.

37.13.4 Social defamation. You publish false statements about a guide that trigger a legal demand. You indemnify Atomic Trips for defense costs and any settlement you approve.

37.14 Cross References

37.14.1 Section 10 for respect toward staff and immediate compliance with instructions
Section 18 for non refundable removal and payment responsibilities
Section 20 for enforcement and dispute resolution
Section 22 for social content rules
Section 23 for payment methods and charge authorization
Section 24 for chargebacks and cancellations
Section 27 and Section 27A for confidentiality, non solicit, and non circumvent duties
Section 32 for weapons and prohibited items
Section 38 for limitations of liability and damages cap
Section 28 for arbitration and venue in Clark County, Nevada

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38. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY AND DAMAGES CAP

38.1 Purpose

38.1.1 This section sets fair and predictable limits on the financial liability of Atomic Trips for claims related to membership, bookings, and participation in trips, consistent with the risk allocation elsewhere in these bylaws.

38.2 Maximum Recovery

38.2.1 To the fullest extent permitted by law, the total aggregate liability of Atomic Trips to you for any and all claims arising out of or related to your membership, booking, or participation in a single trip is limited to the greater of the amount you actually paid to Atomic Trips for that specific trip or one thousand United States dollars, excluding amounts paid for independent purchases you made directly with third parties.

38.2.2 This cap applies regardless of the legal theory asserted, whether in contract, tort, statute, or equity, and regardless of the number of incidents or claims.

38.3 Excluded Categories of Damages

38.3.1 Atomic Trips is not liable for any indirect, incidental, special, exemplary, punitive, or consequential damages, including lost profits, lost business, loss of goodwill, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.

38.3.2 Atomic Trips is not liable for costs you incur outside our direct contracts, such as airfare purchased directly from an airline, visas, vaccinations, independent hotel nights, rideshares, personal shopping, or optional activities booked directly with third parties.

38.4 Independent Contractors and Third Parties

38.4.1 Vendors and activity operators are independent contractors. Atomic Trips is not liable for their acts, errors, omissions, negligence, overbookings, cancellations, or property rules. Any remedy for vendor performance issues lies against the vendor, subject to Section 40 and Section 41.

38.5 Force Majeure, Substitutions, and Schedule Changes

38.5.1 For events beyond reasonable control, remedies are limited to vendor recoveries as set in Section 26. Comparable substitutions or resequencing that preserve program value do not create liability for refunds or additional damages.

38.6 Property Loss and Personal Effects

38.6.1 Atomic Trips is not liable for theft, loss, or damage to personal property, luggage, devices, documents, or cash. See Section 16 for your responsibilities and Section 17 for recovery steps.

38.7 Personal Decisions and Assumption of Risk

38.7.1 You accept the inherent risks of travel and group activities in Section 36. Atomic Trips is not liable for injuries or losses resulting from risks you agreed to assume, including terrain, weather, crowds, personal health conditions, and your independent choices during free time.

38.8 Carve Outs Where the Cap Does Not Reduce Rights

38.8.1 Nothing in this section limits liability to the extent it cannot be limited under applicable law, including for proven gross negligence or willful misconduct by Atomic Trips.

38.8.2 Nothing in this section limits your statutory consumer rights that cannot be waived under Nevada law or other mandatory law that applies under Section 28.

38.9 One Year Limitations Period

38.9.1 To the extent permitted by law, any claim against Atomic Trips must be filed within one year after the claim accrues. Claims filed after one year are permanently barred. This timing rule works together with the arbitration timelines in Section 28.

38.10 No Expansion by Refunds or Credits

38.10.1 Issuing a goodwill credit, courtesy refund, or accommodation does not admit liability and does not increase the cap stated in this section.

38.11 Apportionment Where Multiple Causes Exist

38.11.1 If a loss results from combined causes, including vendor actions, force majeure, and your own acts or omissions, Atomic Trips liability, if any, will be apportioned only to the extent of Atomic Trips proven responsibility and then subject to the cap.

38.12 Insurance as the Primary Remedy

38.12.1 Required travel insurance under Section 7 is your primary remedy for many losses, including trip interruption, delay, medical events, and baggage issues. Recovery under an insurance policy does not increase Atomic Trips cap.

38.13 Relationship to Other Sections

38.13.1 This section works in concert with Section 19 Liability Disclaimer, Section 26 Force Majeure, Section 36 Assumption of Risk, and Section 37 Indemnification. If there is a conflict, the most protective limitation in favor of Atomic Trips applies to the extent permitted by law.

38.14 Severability and Survival

38.14.1 If a court or arbitrator finds any portion of this section unenforceable, the remaining provisions remain in effect to the maximum extent permitted by law.

38.14.2 These limitations survive trip completion, membership termination, refunds, credits, and any dispute.

38.15 Examples

38.15.1 Acceptable: a venue closes due to a strike and Atomic Trips provides a comparable substitute. No additional damages are owed.

38.15.2 Unacceptable: demanding compensation for lost profits from content you planned to film on the trip. Such consequential damages are excluded.

38.15.3 Acceptable: a missed rail connection due to a national signal failure is handled through Section 26 and your insurance policy.

38.15.4 Unacceptable: seeking reimbursement from Atomic Trips for a luxury hotel you independently booked after leaving the group early for personal reasons.

38.16 Cross References

38.16.1 Section 7 for mandatory travel insurance
Section 16 and Section 17 for property responsibility and lost item procedures
Section 19 for liability disclaimer
Section 26 for force majeure and vendor recovery limits
Section 28 for jurisdiction, venue, arbitration, and the one year filing rule
Section 36 for assumption of risk and release
Section 37 for indemnification

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39. MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS, NOTICES, AND OFFICIAL CHANNELS

39.1 Purpose

39.1.1 This section defines what counts as an official communication, how and where Atomic Trips will contact you, how you must contact us, expected response times, message etiquette, and how operational notices are recorded and enforced.

39.2 Official Channels

39.2.1 Primary channels. The Atomic Trips app, the designated trip WhatsApp group, and the email addresses listed on your booking confirmation are the Official Channels for trip communications.

39.2.2 Help Center. The in app Help Center ticketing feature is the official method for submitting requests that require tracking, including cancellations, grievances, lost and found reports, and post trip appeals.

39.2.3 Field voice contact. Phone numbers posted in the app or trip brief are for same day operational issues such as delays, urgent safety concerns, and rendezvous.

39.2.4 Private messages. Direct messages to staff are acceptable for quick coordination but do not replace Help Center tickets for matters that affect refunds, policies, or enforcement.

39.3 Member Contact Obligations

39.3.1 You must maintain a working email address and working mobile number in your profile and enable app notifications for your trip.

39.3.2 You must remain in the trip WhatsApp group for the duration of the program and until the post trip wrap message is sent. Leaving the group or muting notifications does not excuse missed information.

39.3.3 If you change your number or email, update your profile within 48 hours.

39.4 Delivery and Receipt of Notices

39.4.1 Operational notices delivered in any Official Channel are deemed received when sent. These include timing adjustments, meet points, dress code reminders, weather advisories, and vendor rule changes.

39.4.2 Administrative notices that start a response period, such as payment reminders, cure notices, or enforcement summaries, are delivered by email and may be duplicated in the app.

39.4.3 If an email bounces, in app and WhatsApp messages will serve as alternate notice. You are responsible for keeping contact information current.

39.5 Response Time Expectations

39.5.1 Operational day of travel. Acknowledge staff messages that request a direct acknowledgment within 30 minutes during waking hours in destination.

39.5.2 Payment and admin. Respond to payment cure notices within 48 hours as set in Section 23.

39.5.3 Complaints and appeals. Submit any formal complaint or post trip appeal within ten business days under Section 20.

39.5.4 Emergency. For safety issues, call or message the field number immediately and follow up with a Help Center ticket.

39.6 Message Etiquette and Format

39.6.1 Keep messages concise and specific. Include date, time, location, and any names involved.

39.6.2 Use threads or reply features when available to keep related messages together.

39.6.3 Do not flood the group with off topic content during logistics windows such as morning briefings or hotel check outs.

39.6.4 Respect quiet hours posted by staff. During quiet hours, limit group messaging to urgent operational matters.

39.7 Multilingual Communications and Translations

39.7.1 The official language of trip communications is English. Where staff provide translated summaries, the English version controls if there is a conflict.

39.7.2 If you require assistance understanding a notice, request clarification promptly. Do not assume that a lack of understanding excuses non compliance.

39.8 Changes and Corrections

39.8.1 If a notice contains a correction to an earlier message, the most recent message controls. Staff will label corrections clearly in the app or in pinned posts.

39.8.2 If you see a conflict between two messages, follow the most recent message and alert staff to the conflict.

39.9 Pinned Posts and Documents

39.9.1 Staff may pin key posts such as daily schedules, meet points, rooming lists without room numbers, and dress codes. You are responsible for reading pinned posts and attachments.

39.9.2 Do not repost or export pinned documents outside Official Channels. See Section 27 for confidentiality.

39.10 Announcements Hierarchy

39.10.1 Time critical logistics are announced in the app and mirrored in WhatsApp when appropriate.

39.10.2 The app itinerary tab remains the source of truth for planned timing. Last minute deviations are announced in the group with a timestamp and are controlling for that movement.

39.11 Traveler Initiated Notices to Atomic Trips

39.11.1 Submit cancellations, medical disclosures, accessibility requests, vendor incident reports, and enforcement appeals in the Help Center to create a time stamped record.

39.11.2 If the app is unavailable, send an email to the address on your booking confirmation with a clear subject line that includes your trip name and travel dates.

39.11.3 Verbal notices do not control deadlines unless confirmed in writing by Atomic Trips.

39.12 Read Receipts and Acknowledgments

39.12.1 Staff may request a simple acknowledgment such as “seen” or a quick reaction icon to confirm you have read a time sensitive update.

39.12.2 Failure to acknowledge does not delay enforcement where safety or schedule requires a change, but may be considered in an enforcement review under Section 20.

39.13 Records and Retention

39.13.1 Atomic Trips may retain operational messages and attachments as part of the trip record to document notices given, timing of updates, and compliance with these bylaws.

39.13.2 Screenshots or exports of Official Channels may be used for enforcement as allowed under Section 20 and handled under Section 35.

39.14 Side Groups and Off Platform Communications

39.14.1 Do not create side chats that fragment official information. If travelers choose to create a social side group, it must not be used to relay or contradict operational instructions.

39.14.2 Operational questions posted in a side group are not considered submitted to Atomic Trips. Use Official Channels.

39.15 Contact Information for Legal and Arbitration Notices

39.15.1 Legal and arbitration notices must follow the process in Section 28 and be sent to the mailing and email addresses specified there. Operational staff are not authorized to accept service of legal documents.

39.16 Failure of Communications Infrastructure

39.16.1 If cellular or internet services are disrupted, staff will use pre arranged analog meet points and printed lobby boards when available. Continue to follow the last confirmed plan and proceed to the next published meet point unless instructed otherwise by a staff member in person.

39.17 Examples

39.17.1 Acceptable: replying “seen” to a meet time change, adding your estimated arrival time, and arriving on time at the new location.

39.17.2 Unacceptable: muting the WhatsApp group for a day and claiming you did not know about a schedule shift announced three hours in advance.

39.17.3 Acceptable: filing a Help Center ticket to document a vendor overcharge and attaching a photo of the receipt.

39.17.4 Unacceptable: posting a payment dispute in the group chat instead of submitting it through the Help Center.

39.18 Cross References

39.18.1 Section 1 for participation requirements and pre trip calls
Section 12 for communication and personal responsibility
Section 20 for enforcement and dispute resolution
Section 23 for payment plan notices and cure periods
Section 24 for cancellation, refunds, and chargebacks
Section 27 for confidentiality and professional conduct
Section 34 for cyber hygiene and device etiquette
Section 35 for data privacy and message retention

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40. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS, VENDORS, AND THIRD PARTY PROVIDERS

40.1 Purpose

40.1.1 This section clarifies that many trip components are delivered by independent third parties, sets the rules that apply when using their services, explains how service issues are handled, and allocates responsibilities and remedies.

40.2 Status of Vendors

40.2.1 Airlines, rail operators, bus and coach companies, rideshares, ferries, hotels, restaurants, caterers, guides, activity operators, ticket brokers, venues, and equipment rental firms are independent contractors.

40.2.2 They are not employees, agents, or partners of Atomic Trips. Their policies and safety rules control access to their services.

40.3 Applicability and Scope

40.3.1 This section applies to all vendor delivered elements in your program, including lodging, meals listed as included, scheduled transfers, guided activities, tastings, classes, museum entries, shows, and ticketed events.

40.3.2 Optional add ons and free time activities operated by third parties are additionally governed by Section 41.

40.4 Vendor Rules and Waivers

40.4.1 Vendors may require compliance with their house rules, safety briefings, weight or age limits, dress codes, sobriety standards, and equipment use instructions.

40.4.2 Vendors may require liability waivers or assumption of risk forms as a condition of participation. Refusal to sign may result in exclusion without refund.

40.4.3 Where a vendor or venue imposes a lawful restriction, Atomic Trips will not override that decision.

40.5 Safety Authority and Right to Refuse Service

40.5.1 Vendors and venue security retain authority to deny or terminate service to any traveler for safety, intoxication, harassment, non payment of incidentals, dress code violations, or other rule breaches.

40.5.2 If a vendor lawfully refuses service for cause, Atomic Trips may exclude the traveler from the affected component and the traveler is not entitled to a refund. See Sections 18, 20, and 29.

40.6 Service Levels and Variability

40.6.1 Service levels may vary due to staffing, seasonality, regional norms, and local regulations. Amenities advertised by vendors can change without notice.

40.6.2 Historic properties may have smaller rooms, varied bed sizes, limited elevators, or seasonal air conditioning. These differences are not service failures unless a contracted inclusion is not provided.

40.7 Tickets, Allocations, and Seating

40.7.1 Many components depend on limited allocations, timed entries, and vendor controlled seating. Seating preferences are courtesy requests and cannot be guaranteed.

40.7.2 Late arrival may forfeit timed entries or allocated seats without refund. See Section 13.

40.8 Tipping and Gratuities

40.8.1 Where gratuities are stated as included, Atomic Trips will handle them at the group level.

40.8.2 Where not included, staff will provide guidance on customary ranges. Additional personal tipping remains optional unless a venue posts a mandatory service charge.

40.8.3 Tips you choose to add directly are at your discretion and are not refundable.

40.9 Service Issues and Remedies

40.9.1 Report service shortfalls to the Trip Lead immediately while a fix is still possible. Vendors typically require the chance to cure on the spot.

40.9.2 Atomic Trips will work in good faith with the vendor to correct issues by reseating, resequencing, repairing, or substituting.

40.9.3 If a contracted component cannot be delivered and no comparable substitute is feasible, remedies are limited to vendor recoveries as described in Section 26 and refund rules in Section 24.

40.10 Property Rules, Damages, and Incidentals

40.10.1 You are responsible for your room incidentals and for any damages you cause to vendor property. Vendors may bill Atomic Trips if they cannot secure your card. You authorize reimbursement under Section 23.

40.10.2 Smoking or alarm fees, cleaning charges, minibar losses, or breakage caused by a traveler are the traveler’s responsibility.

40.11 Dietary, Allergen, and Accessibility Limitations

40.11.1 Vendors manage their own kitchens and facilities. Allergen cross contact controls, ingredient substitutions, and accessibility features vary by venue.

40.11.2 Zero cross contact environments and full allergen elimination cannot be guaranteed. See Section 6 for dietary realities and Section 7 for essential eligibility.

40.12 Alcohol Service and Refusals

40.12.1 Alcohol is served under local licensing laws. Vendors may cut off service to a traveler who appears intoxicated or underage.

40.12.2 Staff will not intervene to compel continued alcohol service. Refusals for cause do not create a refund right. See Section 14.

40.13 Substitutions and Rebooks

40.13.1 If a vendor cancels or becomes unavailable, Atomic Trips may substitute a comparable vendor or adjust sequencing to preserve program value.

40.13.2 Where a true substitute is not available, remedies follow Section 26 vendor recovery limits.

40.14 Independent Bookings and Side Deals

40.14.1 Do not attempt to negotiate personal discounts, back of house favors, or private group access using the Atomic Trips name, membership, or vendor contacts.

40.14.2 Personal purchases from a vendor during free time are independent contracts for which Atomic Trips is not responsible. See Section 27 and Section 27A.

40.15 Conflicts of Interest and Benefits

40.15.1 Atomic Trips may receive standard industry benefits such as net rates, group comps after thresholds, or preview access for itinerary design. These benefits help fund operations and are not owed to travelers unless expressly stated as an inclusion.

40.15.2 Staff may not accept personal gifts or barter that could compromise vendor neutrality. See Section 49.

40.16 Insurance and Liability

40.16.1 Vendors carry their own insurance as required by law in their jurisdiction. Atomic Trips does not insure vendor operations.

40.16.2 Your required travel insurance is the primary remedy for interruptions, delays, or losses associated with vendor performance outside our control. See Sections 7, 24, and 26.

40.17 Documentation and Follow Up

40.17.1 Atomic Trips may document material vendor incidents to support internal improvements, enforcement, or post trip reviews.

40.17.2 Post trip complaints should be submitted within ten business days under Section 20 with receipts or photos to support a vendor inquiry.

40.18 Examples

40.18.1 Acceptable: alerting the Trip Lead discreetly that a restaurant entrée was served cold so the kitchen can replate during the meal.

40.18.2 Unacceptable: posting a negative review while still seated and refusing the restaurant’s offer to replace the dish.

40.18.3 Acceptable: a winery declines to pour additional tastings for an intoxicated traveler and staff routes that traveler to water and a snack.

40.18.4 Unacceptable: demanding a refund from Atomic Trips because a heritage hotel lacks a large elevator when that feature was never included.

40.19 Cross References

40.19.1 Section 6 for dietary restrictions and allergen limitations
Section 7 for essential eligibility and required insurance
Section 13 for lateness, missed connections, and catch up rules
Section 14 for alcohol service rules
Section 18 for non refundable removal and cost shifting
Section 24 for refund mechanics
Section 26 for force majeure and vendor recovery limits
Section 27 and Section 27A for confidentiality and non compete obligations
Section 41 for optional third party excursions and free time activities