Taking a gap year is sometimes looked down on and regarded as kinda cliche. But it can turn out to be the best decision of your life!
My husband was lucky enough to take time out to go backpacking after competing university and he describes it was one of the best years of his life.
He went to my local travel agent and booked a round the world ticket taking in places like China, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand and the USA.
He did most of the trip solo, although some of the my best experiences were doing organised group activities including volunteering, tours, language courses and cookery courses.
If you like the idea of taking a gap year but don’t know how to get started I’ve decided to put together a list of the most highly rated websites to check out.
These are the best companies which can help you book an amazing gap year, get started and find/book a trip today.
1. Gap Year World
Gap Year World is your one stop directory for finding things to do. Whether you’re interested in working, volunteering, studying or just exploring, you can find amazing programs, trips and courses around the globe. Search by continent, country or activity and apply to get your trip planned and arranged. You can also browse useful articles with advice for packing, flights, tips and much more.
2. Global Work and Travel
Global Work and Travel offer 60+ trips to 30+ countries including Australia, Canada, Americas, UK, New Zealand, Europe, Asia and Africa. Choose between Working Holidays, Volunteering, Au Pairing, Teaching English and Internships. Global Work and Travel also offer help with. Flights, Tours and have a 24/7 Support Team.
3. G Adventures
G Adventures are an incredible company, and quite possible the best tour company you’ve never heard about before. G Adventures offer epic small group trips around the world and thousands of people have booked tours with them over the past few decades.
Search thousands of trips from going overland in the USA, trekking the Inca trail in Peru, island hopping in Europe or travelling in Australia – just to name a few! You’ll meet likeminded travellers and get an experienced guide to help you visit the best places along the way.
If you want to travel on your gap year there really is no better company for exploration.
4. Contiki
Everyone has heard of Contiki, right? If you haven’t, Contiki are one of the most popular tour companies for 18 – 30 somethings who have been offering life changing and wild trips for over 50 years.
Contiki have a reputation for being quite wild and tours can be a lot of fun with parties, beaches, drinking and much more.
You’ll make special memories and get friends for life! Popular destinations include island hopping in Greece, Bali, Australia, Europe, North America although you can also now book trips to Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East!
5. TruTravels
TruTravels are a highly rated tour operator offering epic group backpacking trips in South East Asia. Join TruTravels in paradise destinations where you’ll get to explore amazing places in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam & Bali.
6. International TEFL and TESOL Training
Have you ever thought about teaching English abroad? Maybe you have, or maybe this is something totally new to you. Teaching abroad is a great way to live abroad, get paid and also get to travel and see new places in your spare time.
The easiest way to get started is to take a TEFL certification course. This can be taken online, or in a classroom, and helps prepare you with the skills and knowledge to become a good teacher. International TEFL and TESOL Training offer a range of online and in-class courses around the world and are one of the most respected teaching abroad companies.
7. Seasonal Jobs Abroad
Keen to find summer, winter, seasonal or temporary jobs on your gap year? Then Seasonal Jobs Abroad will be helpful to you. This simple to use site helps you to find jobs and employers around the globe. From searching the best gap year jobs, working a summer season in Ibiza, doing a working holiday in Australia to hitting the slopes on a ski season in North America. Find your perfect position today, apply and get hired.
8. One World 365
One World 365 is one of the most established travel directories on the web where you can search thousands of opportunities. Think the Google of the travel industry where you can find companies offering tours, jobs, working holidays, volunteering programs, internships, language courses and so much more. If you can’t find something of interest on One World 365 you might as well stay at home.
9. Skyscanner
The chances are if you are planning to take a gap year or backpacking adventure you are going to want to visit other countries and so getting cheap flights is really important. Is there a better flight comparison booking website than Skyscanner? I don’t think so! Whether you just want to book a single trip, return or round the world plane ticket, you can do it all on Skyscanner.
10. Booking.com
There are absolutely tons of websites to book accommodation but Booking.com are still the best. Find thousands of places to stay around the world with options for all budgets. From huge luxury 5 star hotels, to b&b’s, hostel dorms and more affordable options. Become a member and get special offers, discounted rates and loyalty prices – perfect if you are going to be staying in lots of places.
Hopefully this article has given you some ideas for the best websites to use if planning a gap year. If you are thinking about taking time out and need more help, these article will be useful to you:
• Where to go on a gap year
• Top 10 gap year things to do
• Best backpacking destinations
