In coal mining, a trip refers to a train of mine cars used to haul coal, supplies, or miners into or out of a mine. A man trip is a trip primarily transporting miners. Additionally, the elevators in vertical shaft mines are also known as man trips. In the early years of mining, ponies or mules would power a man trip. Large mines would have underground stables and barns to house the animals. As mining modernized in the early 20th century, electric locomotives replaced animal power. Today most West Virginia mines use battery-powered vehicles to convey their workers.

The West Virginia University football team has incorporated the term into its pregame rituals. Before each home game, the team and staff, mascot, cheerleaders, and marching band walk to the stadium as part of the Mountaineer Mantrip, which is always lined with fans.