5 Step Guide To Funding Your Gap Year Abroad

So, you’ve decided to take a gap year. First off, congratulations. A gap year can be an amazing opportunity to explore the world, gain new experiences, and figure out what you want to do next.

But, let’s face it: traveling and living abroad isn't cheap. The key to making your gap year dreams viable is to start planning and fundraising as soon as possible.

This is where we step in - The Leap has been helping gap year students travel the world for nearly 20 years, and have loads of top tips on how best to structure your gap year so you prioritise the best months for income earning, which tends to be September to December. Ready to put in the hours and work hard? Let’s get started.

1. Start Early: Plan Your Budget

Before you dive into job hunting, you need to know how much money you’ll need. Research your desired destinations and activities to create a detailed budget. Consider costs such as:

• Flights and transportation
• Accommodation
• Food and daily expenses
• Travel insurance cover
• Activities and excursions
• Emergency funds

Having a clear goal in mind will keep you motivated and focused. We suggest a target of aiming to raise a minimum amount of £400 each week.

2. Job Hunting: Where to Look

Retail and Hospitality

The retail and hospitality industries are always looking for seasonal workers, especially in the lead-up to Christmas. Stores, restaurants, cafes, and hotels often need extra hands to cope with the holiday rush. Start applying in early September to secure a position.

• Retail: Check out local malls, shopping centers, and big retailers like supermarkets or department stores. A popular place for gappies to work is Fortnum and Mason in the run up to Christmas as the pay is good and it is nice to work amongst other young adults also potentially on their gap year.
• Hospitality: Look for jobs in cafes, restaurants, bars, and hotels. These places are often willing to hire young, enthusiastic workers, especially during the busy holiday season. Summer sporting events also require hospitality staff so get applying early for Wimbledon. You could also browse for jobs on Radio HP showing available opportunities.

Temp Agencies

Temporary employment agencies can connect you with short-term jobs across various industries. These jobs can range from administrative work to warehouse jobs, and they often pay well. Register with a few temp agencies and let them know you’re looking for work from September to December and can do all the shifts available.

Online/Virtual opportunities

The gig economy offers numerous opportunities to earn money online. Consider:

• Freelancing: If you have skills in writing, graphic design, web development, or social media management
• Tutoring: If you excel in a particular subject, offer tutoring services to younger students either in person or online through websites like Superprof
• Virtual Assistant: Many small businesses and entrepreneurs need help with administrative tasks. Browse more here

Part-Time and Flexible Jobs

Look for part-time jobs that offer flexible hours so you can maximize your earnings. Some ideas include:

• Babysitting: Parents are often in need of reliable babysitters, especially during the holiday season.
• Dog Walking and Pet Sitting: Apps like Rover make it easy to find pet care jobs in your area.
• Delivery Services: Companies like Uber Eats, or Just Eat are always looking for delivery drivers.

3. Extra Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Sell Unwanted Items

Take a good look around your room. Chances are you have items you no longer need or use. Sell these on platforms like eBay, Depop, Vinted, or Facebook Marketplace. It’s a great way to declutter and make some extra cash. If you’re off to uni It’ll make the move much easier with less clutter too.

Save and Budget Wisely

As you start earning, it’s crucial to save as much as possible. Open a separate savings account dedicated to your gap year fund. Create a budget to track your income and expenses, and avoid unnecessary spending. Remember, every pound saved brings you closer to your dream adventure. When getting a travel card for going away (you want one that doesn't charge you everytime you use it abroad) look at something that offers cashback when you spend such as Chase Bank.

Think about Birthdays/Christmas

Is there an item that you could ask for as a gift such as a backpack or travel clothing? People often enjoy having an idea of something you would really enjoy receiving to help you on your travels.

Seek Sponsorship and Grants

Some organizations and charities offer grants or sponsorships for young people planning gap years. Research and apply for any opportunities that align with your gap year plans. It might be a long shot, but it’s worth exploring.

4. Stay Motivated

Raising funds for a gap year requires dedication and hard work. Keep your end goal in mind and remind yourself why you’re doing this. Visualize your travels, the people you’ll meet, and the experiences you’ll gain. This will help you stay focused and motivated during the fundraising period.

5. Earning while you’re away

You might find that while you’re away you can also earn some pennies without getting a long term full time job out there – something as simple as taking over a travel company’s social media account or sending them content/writing blogs for them and filming little video snippets for their Instagram or TikTok from someone actually out in an exotic destination. Trust me – travel companies crave great photos in situ.

Final Thoughts

A gap year is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the world and discover yourself. By planning ahead and putting in the effort from September to December, you can raise the funds you need to make your gap year a reality. Start early, work hard, learn new skills and remember to enjoy the journey.

Join a Leap programme

A great way to budget is to join our Leap programmes. Pay one fee for the programme which covers your accommodation and most of your meals (depending on each trip). That way you know that you’ve paid for the majority of the trip and just need to budget for optional activities and any restaurants/bars you choose to go to. You can browse all our team programmes here.

Good luck, and happy travels!

FAQS

When is your busiest time of year for team programmes? January to April is very popular - so is July

How many Leapers on a team? Each trip varies but it is between 12-24 people per programme

Do all your programmes contain a mix of contribution, culture and challenge? Yes they do and the weight of each will vary in each programme so get in contact so we help you work out which works for you.

Ready to browse team programmes and find your perfect gap year programme? Explore our volunteering programmes.