How to plan your gap year

Planning a gap year can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you hope to volunteer, master a new language or work at a summer camp, a well-planned gap year can equip you with valuable skills

1. Identify your goals

Before planning your gap year, it's important to decide what you hope to achieve during your break. Consider whether these goals are tied to specific locations or activities, for example, if you want to learn Japanese, you might set a goal to become fluent and then travel to Japan to put your skills to the test. This will help you to choose the right destination so that you don't return with gaps in your CV.

Find out what working abroad placements and internship programmes are currently available at gap year opportunities.

2. Decide who to travel with

If you have friends with similar interests, you might want to consider travelling together and plan the trip accordingly. Travelling together has several advantages, including:

Not feeling lonely - there will always be someone to cheer you up when you're feeling homesick or down.
Sharing costs - you can split the cost of everything, from transport to meals and accommodation.
Feeling safer - having someone to watch your back in unfamiliar places where you don't speak the language can be comforting.

However, travelling solo can also be a fulfilling experience. Some benefits of solo travel include:

Freedom - you won't be held back by differing budgets, expectations, or preferences. You can plan your trip according to your own interests and pace.
Personal growth - solo travel can increase your confidence and independence, and help you develop effective communication and problem solving Discover what skills employers want.
Meeting new people - Travelling alone can create opportunities to meet new people and make friends.

3. Budget and save

It's possible to find round-the-world tickets for as little as £1,300, but keep in mind that hidden costs can add up quickly:

Passports - renewing or applying for a UK passport is £88.50.
Visas - costs vary greatly, ranging from £15 to £150 per country.
Vaccinations - immunisations and malaria prevention tablets can range from £30 to £80.
Sightseeing - bus tours will set you back around £25. Consider exploring on foot to minimise costs.

There are plenty of ways to fund your trip, including getting a part-time job, selling items you no longer need, or taking on seasonal jobs as you travel, such as teaching English abroad.

Before your travels begin, it's important to monitor your money. Ask yourself 'What could this get me on my gap year?' For example, £1 could buy lunch in Thailand, while £10 could cover a night's stay in India.

You should also make sure your finances are in order before you leave by:

Clearing outstanding payments - settle any monthly standing orders or direct debits for services you won't use before your departure.
Maintaining cash flow - ensure enough money is in your account to cover expenses while you're away.

4. Book your travel

Before booking your journey, research whether there are any seasonal weather conditions you'll need to account for, such as monsoon season in South Asia, or any religious observances that might impact your travel plans.

Unless you're embarking on a structured gap year programme, it's best to plan your itinerary with a degree of flexibility. This will allow you to explore new places and account for changes to your schedule.

Popular travel options include:

Interrail One Country Pass is a budget-friendly option, with prices starting from €119 (£101) for The Benelux, and options available for 30 countries.
Global Pass is ideal if you're looking to travel further. This pass grants access to 33 participating countries. For a four-day youth pass (aged 12-27), prices begin at €212 (£183).
A round-the-world (RTW) plane ticket allows you to travel further afield. Prices start at around £1,300 making exploring the world on a budget a realistic possibility, but be aware that this will vary depending on travel class, destinations, and total flight distance.

Specialist travel companies like Trailfinders can help create a personalised itinerary, or you can plan your own trip, crafting a route that hits all your must-see destinations.

Before you book your trip, check the government's foreign travel advice for your chosen destination. Be sure to account for any special entry requirements, such as passport validity, as some countries require at least six months remaining before you travel.

5. Organise your travel essentials

Your gap year checklist should cover the following areas:

Vaccinations - schedule a doctor's visit well in advance (up to a year) to receive necessary vaccinations for your destinations. Some countries may require additional medical tests or medication, like malaria tablets.
Travel insurance - make sure your insurance covers your planned activities. Consider 'adventure travel' insurance if you'll be participating in high-risk sports like rock climbing, jet skiing, or bungee jumping.
Health insurance - if you're leaving your home country for an extended period, ensure your existing health insurance plan provides adequate coverage. Consider international health insurance options if needed. Insurance policies can vary significantly in terms of coverage and price, so it's essential to compare your options to find the best fit for your needs.
Passport - ensure your passport is valid for the entirety of your trip and consider additional validity for visa applications. Some visas expect your passport to be valid after the date you plan to leave the country. Check GOV.UK - Passports for specific countries' requirements.
Visas - research visa requirements for all countries you plan to visit. Contact the respective country's embassy to determine application deadlines and visa durations.
Banking - you'll need to notify your bank you're travelling, and the Student Loans Company (SLC) if you plan to be away for more than three months.
Safety tips - create a document with your passport details, bank information, insurance policy details, mobile number, and email address. Leave a copy with a trusted friend or family member for emergencies.
Culture shock preparation - to ease culture shock, research the religion, cultural norms, and customs of the countries you'll visit. Talk to experienced travellers and explore online resources like forums and guides specific to your destinations.

6. Decide what to buy before you go

To travel light and maximise your adventures, focus on packing only the essentials for your gap year. Here's where you should prioritise your budget:

a rucksack - choose a well-fitting backpack in the 55-65 litre range. Avoid anything larger than 75 litres, which can become bulky. Pack your bag and wear it for several hours to ensure comfort
clothing - opt for versatile clothing that you can mix and match
travel towel - pack a quick-drying travel towel that takes up minimal space
a universal travel adapter - to keep your essential electronics charged
shoes - comfortable and practical shoes are essential. Consider a pair that's good for walking, exploring, and maybe even light hiking depending on your trip
accommodation for the first few nights - use resources like Hostelworld.com, StudentUniverse or Airbnb.

For a more comprehensive checklist, check out the Gap360 kit list.

7. Plan for your return

To make the transition back to reality more comfortable, it's crucial to plan your finances and set aside money for your return flight, rent, and living expenses while you search for a job at home. Keep in mind that to qualify for Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), you'll need to be back in the UK for at least three months.

It's always a good idea to update your CV before you return. This way, you can include any relevant skills, jobs, and experiences gained during your travels that will help you apply for positions immediately upon arriving home. Don't forget to customise each application to the specific job and company. Check out our tips on CVs and cover letters and applying for jobs for guidance.

To prevent feeling down after your gap year, plan something exciting. Consider an internship in your industry of choice, or take a course to develop new skills and knowledge. This will give you a new sense of purpose and direction.

Find out more

Explore whether you should take a gap year.
Discover gap year opportunities.