Preparing for your year abroad can be a very exciting time. All that excitement can push all the important stuff you need to organise out of your head. It’s very easy to forget things if we do not stay on top of things. To help you with all your planning, we’ve come up with this list of everything you need to organise for a successful gap year. Happy planning!
Insurance
As you will be away for an extended length of time, you will need more than your basic travel insurance. If you are working, ask your employer to see if they can help you out. Depending on your destination, they may even be legally obliged to provide you with a certain amount of cover. If you need to get your insurance, many providers now offer gap year cover.
Luggage
As you will be away from home for a very long time, you’ll have to think carefully about what you take. You also need to consider airline luggage restrictions. Try and pack as lightly as you can to stay within these restrictions. If your bags are overweight, you may have to pay a large fee at the airport. If you get to your destination and realise you need a lot more stuff, you can arrange International Student Shipping.
Visas and Shots
To stay in some countries for a prolonged length of time, you’ll be required to apply for a visa. If you are just planning on travelling or backpacking around the country, this shouldn’t be too hard to acquire. However, if you want to work, this could be tricky. To make it easier, ask your employer to sponsor you. All this involves is a letter of recommendation to support your application. Don’t forget to check it you need any travel vaccinations. This is usually only the case for tropical locations. If you do, get your shots in plenty of time before you leave.
Finances
It’s important to know how you will be funding your gap year. If you are working, this shouldn’t be a problem. It also shouldn’t be too difficult to organise if you are studying, as there are many grants and bursaries available for students. However, if you are travelling, you will need to save your cash up in advance. Once you are abroad, you may not be allowed to work, especially if you are on a tourist visa. Working while on a tourist visa could end in you being deported back home.
Emergency Contact Information
The most important part of your gap year is safety. Make sure your family back home have your contact details while you are away, and ensure you always have your home phone number on you at all times. Once you arrive at your destination, it’s a good idea to head to your embassy straight away. You can then register your details with them so that they are aware you will be in the country for a year in case of an emergency.
All set? It’s time to start the countdown to your most exciting year yet!