Money advice for gap year travel

Hi user1909888,

A gap year is a great option for lots of people and lots of my friends either did or now wish they did take a gap year! I think it's a great option and certainly something I wish I had considered more. As far as I'm aware my friends saved up by work as much as they could before the year began over the Summer and during A-Levels, meaning they had a nice amount of savings to support them through the year. They then worked for a couple of months before traveling in order to afford to go - so basically just working as much as possible at home in between adventures. Working abroad is also a great idea which is possibly a better idea if you are thinking of going for a longer time period (for example a couple of months). My friend and I are actually considering working abroad next Summer for a couple of months - I think it is a great opportunity to experience a different place and culture without losing out too much financially.

I know a lot of my friends booked onto tours meaning they were traveling in a group of new people and were sharing accommodation, traveling with others and everything was sorted for them in a kind of package deal, etc, for example, one of my friends at the moment is doing Camp Bali which she seems to really be enjoying. There are of course pros and cons to this - for example being with others is nice as you feel safe and it is easy to make friends, however, you may prefer your independence and prefer to explore alone, meet new people along the way and be flexible in terms of traveling on or staying somewhere longer. I know lots of people recommend youth hostels especially if you are thinking of solo traveling as there are lots of people traveling on their own and it is a great opportunity to meet other solo travelers and make friends. It is apparently a very nice and inclusive vibe.

I hope this is helpful - good luck on your travels - stay safe!

Katie - Educational Psychology Student