How to Finance a Gap Year of Traveling
There’s a common misconception that travel has to be lavish, luxurious, and unobtainable—something only the luckiest people get to experience. While there’s certainly some luck involved in being able to travel more easily (like being born when and where we were), travel is far more accessible than many people think. In this article, I’ll share how I financed my gap year to 16 countries and offer some options you might consider.
Work Exchanges
Work exchanges are fantastic programs that make travel accessible, especially for those with “weaker” passports who can’t obtain work visas in other countries. In essence, work exchanges allow you to trade a few hours of work each week for free accommodation. Some even offer additional perks like free meals, laundry, or bike use.
My first work exchange was early in my gap year at a fishing resort in Wisconsin. A few times a week, I cleaned cabins after guests checked out and helped my host family around their house on other days. I just finished my second work exchange as a receptionist at a hotel/hostel in Washington, D.C., where I worked three 8-hour shifts a week. Both programs offered extra benefits like free laundry and food, making them even more worthwhile.
I highly recommend work exchanges to anyone looking to finance a gap year, especially if you’re interested in slow travel and immersing yourself in local culture or language. While my experiences have been in the United States, work exchange programs are available worldwide, covering various options like homestays, hostels, orphanages, farms, and more!
Working Abroad
For those whose passport status allows it, working abroad is another excellent option for financing travel, especially if you prefer slower travel. There are many different opportunities available.
Personally, I started and ended my gap year working for study abroad programs through my alma mater. These short-term programs, led by university faculty, host groups of students for 4-6 weeks abroad. As a program assistant, I followed the professor and students to every activity and helped resolve issues like medical emergencies. The benefits were incredible — free roundtrip flights, a private hotel room, and getting paid for a full-time workweek.
While my specific program may only hire those affiliated with my college, there are many similar opportunities out there. If this interests you, I recommend researching American colleges with strong study abroad programs. Some colleges even have campuses overseas, offering opportunities for American workers. You might also consider roles similar to a college resident assistant, where you live and work in student housing, receiving a salary and accommodation.
Another option for working while traveling is coolworks.com. Though I haven’t used it myself, it’s a platform for finding unique seasonal jobs in the United States. While the jobs aren’t international, they’re great for short-term plans that allow you to earn extra cash.
Budget-Friendly Countries
Choosing to visit countries where your currency is stronger is another key way I financed my time abroad. While I did visit some more expensive countries like Australia and New Zealand, I spent most of my time in more budget-friendly destinations. For instance, I spent a month in Sri Lanka and Vietnam each, where I sometimes paid as little as $4 per night for a hostel bed!
There are many countries where the American dollar goes a long way. Southeast Asia, in particular, is popular with solo and first-time travelers and is generally very affordable.
Final Thoughts: Your Adventure Awaits
I hope the advice I’ve provided helps you plan and finance your own long-term travel. Go out, set sail, and bon voyage!