Gap Year Travel

A gap year is defined as a 12 month period between school and higher education, which is usually spent working, travelling, or a combination of the two. A gap year will provide an opportunity for developing valuable skills, both socially and personally.

Deciding to take a gap year can be difficult. If you decide to travel, you may need to save up for a time first to finance the trip and arrange for money to be available while you're away. There are many ways to do this, but a credit card or international debit card are the most common. Also consider how you'll keep in contact with family and friends back home; most countries have internet cafes and phonecards so you can se these, or you may decide to take a laptop and use wireless internet points which are usually available in hostels and guesthouses.

One of the biggest considerations for any gap-year student is insurance. Each country you visit will have its own hazards, so it's essential you plan your trip carefully and know exactly which dangers you could encounter. Be aware that some insurers may not cover for certain countries so it's worth doing a quote first, to get an idea of countries you will be covered for. A policy covering personal belongings and medical expenses is the bare minimum you should take out; one which will reimburse you for cancelled flights or other modes of transport is also a good idea. If you plan on taking part in any sports on your trip, it's best to get personal accident cover added on too.

Most "gappers" travel alone, occasionally meeting up with pre-arranged travelling companions for parts of the journey. There are many websites dedicated to helping you find a companion, and it's always best if you can meet them beforehand, for safety's sake. When you are alone on your trip, observe some simple safety rules; don't walk around on your own after dark, be cautious at ATM machines, don't wear expensive jewellery – leave it at home if you can – and keep an eye on your drinks when visiting a bar.

It's good practice to carry copies of important documents such as visas, passports and medical records in a different place to the originals. Give copies to family and friends before you leave, and even email them to yourself. Carry contact numbers and addresses for the British Embassies in each country you visit. Research local customs before you go, to make sure you won't run into any unnecessary trouble with the locals.

When packing for a gap year trip the key word is 'light'. You'll be tempted to take along every little thing you think you may need, but in fact most things will be available for purchase along the way. A good rule of thumb is to take enough for the first month and stock up during that time. The most important things to pack are your passport and other documents, credit/debit cards or travellers cheques, change of clothes and suncream/insect repellent. Toiletries are available in handy travel-sized bottles so take a few of these with you, but refrain from taking razors and aerosols without checking with the airlines first. It may be easier to just buy some disposable razors in each country than trying to argue with an airline. If you're taking any electrical equipment with you it's a good idea to buy a worldwide travel adapter plug, which is lightweight and can be used in most countries.

Finally, before you go, see your doctor or pharmacist about vaccinations. Take a list of all the countries you plan to visit so they will be able to tell you if there are risks present, and how much treatment you'll need for the whole trip.

The best way to find cheap travel insurance for your Gap Year is to shop around online. While holiday insurance isn't mandatory, it's always wise to take out a policy. The one time you go on holiday without travel insurance could be the one time you need it.