Are you interested in taking a gap year in 2024? Not sure where to get started or which company to book with?
If you are totally new to the idea of taking a gap year and wondering what they are, this is usually a break from studying or working, where people usually travel to new countries and partake in activities like working, volunteering, teaching, interning or learning.
Gap years are popular with students seeking a break after college or university, whilst more and more older people are now taking sabbaticals and career breaks from jobs. You only live once after all.
There are hundreds of companies now offering gap year experiences, but not all are good or reputable, and you really need to do a lot of research before booking a trip.
To help make you plan an incredible gap year trip we have put together a guide to the best websites to use.
1. Gap Year World
If you want to research, plan and book a gap year, then Gap Year World should be your first point of call. This website is focused 100% on gap years, with information about where to go, flights, accommodation, insurance and also recommendations for what to do.
The website is easy to navigate and instead of listing hundreds of trip, volunteer, course and working holiday opportunities, there is a focus on a select few number of companies which are highly recommended from past participant reviews.
2. Global Work & Travel
Global Work & Travel provides an easy way to work and explore the world. You can find both paid & unpaid opportunities, including working holidays, internships, au pair, summer camp and tutor jobs, teaching placements, study abroad courses and tours.
3. G Adventures
If you want travel the world but not go solo or by yourself then G Adventures are one of the most highly rated companies to check out. Thousands of people book trips with G Adventures every year and you can visit hundreds of destinations in Asia, South America, Europe, Artic, Antarctica, Latin America, Africa, Middle East. There are a choice of trips for every type of traveller including small group, classic, active, wellness, rail and marine.
4. GVI
If the idea of volunteering on a gap year appeals to you then GVI is one of the top rated companies to apply with.
Founded in 1998, GVI runs award winning volunteer projects and internships in 21 locations, in 13 countries around the world. By applying to volunteer abroad with GVI you can make a sustainable impact in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe and Latin America.
There are short and long term projects you can. book all year round including wildlife and marine conservation, women’s empowerment, teaching, animal care, public health, sports, construction and helping children.
Popular destinations include South Africa, Madagascar, Seychelles, Cambodia, India, Thailand, Fiji, Greece, Canary Islands, Spain, Costa Rica, Belize, Mexico and Peru.
5. Contiki
Contiki are one of the best youth travel operators offering trips for 18 – 35 year olds. Contiki are a legendary company who have been offering trips in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, North America, South America, Africa, Middle East and Asia for years. Contiki tours are a lot of fun and can be lively.
6. One World 365
One World 365 is one of the most established travel directories on the web where you can find thousands of companies offering jobs, volunteer programs, language courses and study abroad programs, and sporting activities like skiing, surfing, scuba diving and more.
One World 365 has been running for over 10 years and has helped thousands of people find opportunities around the world. Unlike a lot of websites they have a country directory where you can find things to do in specific locations – the hard part is deciding where to go and what to do as there really is so much choice!
7. Seasonal Jobs Abroad
If you are looking to find a job on your gap year, either short term for summer or winter, or a working holiday, then Seasonal Jobs Abroad is a great website to check out. You can find all types of seasonal jobs from cruise ships, holidays camps, hotels, resorts, summer camps, farms, sports instructor companies, ski resorts and more.
8. TruTravels
TruTravels offer life changing group trips for 18 – Whatever year olds! Whether you’re a millennial, Gen Z-er or are just straight up young at heart, join TruTravels for unreal adventures across Asia, Europe & Latin America. Expect maximum adventure, minimum hassle & nothing average.
TruTravels have thousands of 5 star reviews because badass Travel Ninjas (like tour guides, but much better) are highly trained to make your experience a life changing, mind blowing, ground breaking, earth shatteringly awesome one. Every time. Book your dream trip with TruTravels now and look forward to making memories that will last a life time.
9. Go Find Programs
Are you keen to spend your gap year living, working or studying abroad? Check out Go Find Programs. This site doesn’t offer placements, but acts as a information directory where you can find tips for things to do, places to go and companies to apply with.
10. Camp America
Want a summer of fun, travel and adventure, that will also boost your CV? Well then Camp America is for you! Camp America is your chance to spend a summer working and living on an amazing summer camp in the USA! Applications for summer are NOW OPEN!
Book Your Gap Year
Hopefully our article has given you some suggestions for where to start when planning and booking your gap year. You can also browse Inspire Your Trip for activity and destinations ideas. These articles might also help you to get as much information as possible for trip planning:
• Best backpacking destinations
• Amazing places to visit on a gap year
• Top things to do on a gap year
