Planning for a gap year

By: Andrew Regan

For young people nowadays it’s increasingly common to embark on a gap year post high school or post university graduation, even as an occupational sabbatical. Having worked through the education system, under the strictures of rules and regulations, a year away offers young people the heady combination of rebellion, reflection, space and freedom at what could be the only time in their lives when a year’s trip abroad is possible.

With a wealth of gap year opportunities available, young people literally have the world at their feet.

For some, round the world is the only way to go; for others, the journey of a lifetime through South America, Africa or Indonesia is plenty to experience in one year.

Many also choose to travel to Australia – the world of wonder. Its enormous landmass and diverse cultural and ecological environment pose a continental all-inclusive opportunity of discovery matched by few places on earth. Boasting six states spread across all compass points of this southern hemisphere continent, Australia offers visitors a wealth of experience.

Many young people choose to stay city-central, soaking up the unique atmosphere of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Darwin or Canberra; some, on the other hand, choose to roam around the coast and cross country.

With such a huge landmass to navigate, it’s vital that adequate planning is implemented before embarking on the journey of a lifetime to Australia. Planning your route is the primary decision, enabling you to book, at the very least, a first night’s stay in appropriate accommodation. Thereafter, you could choose to stick loosely to a travel itinerary, booking up days or weeks at a time. Conversely, you could choose to book a series of first nights, guaranteeing a move-on date to keep the momentum of your gap year going.

Ensuring you have suitable luggage and clothing for a year’s trip is equally important. Many young people choose to carry large backpacks or rucksacks, while others favour a more sedate suitcase on wheels. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s suitable for the purpose intended and pack sensibly. If you’re not used to a country’s climate, you may prefer to pick up suitable clothing once you arrive, in which case you can save spending money on clothes until you reach your initial destination.

You will no doubt choose to take valuables of some degree with you on a gap year – a camera, mobile phone, even a laptop. To cover these items, and the loss of any other valuables, make sure you have adequate travel insurance that will cover your chosen continent for an entire year. You will also require health insurance and check with your doctor or health professional about whether you require immunisation prior to travel.

One of the most important elements of travel is your passport – without it, you won’t get far. Make sure that it’s valid and will remain so for the entirety of your gap year.

Finally, take a physical note of phone numbers and addresses of loved ones with you. If numbers and e-mail addresses are stored only in your mobile phone, should it get lost, you could find yourself in trouble. It’s vital to keep in contact with family and friends while away and you could benefit from looking into securing cheap calls to Australia (http://www.firstnumber.co.uk/international-calls/cheap-calls-to-Australia/) for you and your loved ones prior to leaving home. This gives you peace of mind that you can touch base, seek advice, or even ask for help, wherever and however often you need to.

About the Author

Andrew Regan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

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