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There are few moments in life as perfect as that gap between academic milestones, where you get a chance to take a few weeks to explore the world at your own pace. With exams behind you, a well-deserved breather before starting work just feels right (and very much needed to blow off steam). After all your hard work, whether you've just finished school, uni, or a postgrad course, it's time to swap your diploma for a boarding pass! With so much of the world out there to see, planning gap year trips might feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you're thinking about things like budget and who to travel with. But don't worry! Whether you're dreaming of lazy days on sunny beaches, getting lost in ancient cities, or soaking up the beauty of national parks, we've got you covered with a list of the best gap year trips tailored to all kinds of travellers.
What is a Gap Year Trip?
A gap year trip, often called just "gap year," is like hitting pause after school or university to dive into adventure and self-discovery before diving into the next chapter of life. It's a chance to travel, volunteer, learn new things, or simply take a breather and figure out what you want. Lasting from a few months to a year (or even longer if you're feeling adventurous!), gap year trips are all about growing, exploring, and having fun. Whether you're backpacking through Europe, lending a hand in a far-off community, going solo or with friends, a gap year trip is the ultimate adventure before you begin adulthood.
How Much Should a Gap Year Cost?
Planning for a gap year adventure involves more than just picking destinations and booking flights. It's essential to consider the financial aspect too. The cost of a gap year can vary widely depending on factors such as destination, duration, travel style, and personal preferences. On average, a gap year can cost anywhere from £5,000 to £15,000 or more, depending on where you go and how long you stay. Here's a breakdown of potential expenses:
- Transport: Budget around £500 to £2,000 for flights or other transportation costs, depending on the number of destinations and distance travelled.
- Accommodation: Plan to spend around £20 to £100 per night for accommodation, depending on the type (hostels, hotels, Airbnb, etc.) and location.
- Food: Allocate approximately £10 to £50 per day for food expenses, depending on your eating habits and whether you cook or dine out.
- Activities: Factor in around £500 to £2,000 for activities and excursions during your gap year, depending on the types of activities you plan to do and their costs.
- Travel Insurance: Budget around £200 to £500 for travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.
- Visas and Documentation: Include costs for visas, permits, and other documentation required for your destinations, which can range from £50 to £500 or more depending on the countries you visit.
- Emergency Fund: Set aside at least £1,000 as an emergency fund for unexpected expenses or emergencies during your gap year.
These are just rough estimates, and actual costs may vary based on individual circumstances and choices. It's crucial to research the costs specific to your destinations and create a detailed budget to ensure you have enough funds to cover your gap year trip expenses. Additionally, consider ways to save money, such as volunteering or working abroad, using budget-friendly accommodation, and being mindful of your spending throughout your travels. With careful planning and budgeting, you can make the most of your gap year adventure without breaking the bank.
The Best Gap Year Trips for Every Kind of Traveler
- US National Park Tour
- Eastern Europe Backpacking Trip
- Explore the UK
- Road Trip through Italy
- Solo Travel in the US
- Discover Portugal
- South African Adventure
- Coast to Coast in the US
1. National Park Tour
If the idea of jetting off on an international flight to a far-off destination for your gap year trip appeals to you, then we suggest lacing on your hiking boots and trekking through some of America’s most beautiful national parks. With 63 national parks to choose from spread across 50 different states, there’s an adventure waiting just for you. If you are looking for a mountainous trek head to Rocky Mountain State Park in Colorado. For out of this world rock formations consider hitting the “Mighty five” in Utah. Hit the open road, rent a car, and uncover the hidden gems of the U.S. landscape. While iconic parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite draw millions, consider veering off the beaten path for a graduation trip filled with serene moments amidst lesser-known national parks.
2. Eastern European Backpacking Trip
Embarking on a backpacking adventure across Europe has become somewhat of a rite of passage for many recent college graduates, offering a chance to explore the world before diving into the workforce. However, with the popularity of certain European cities soaring, along with their temperatures, the summer crowds in places like Rome, Paris and Amsterdam can be overwhelming. That's why it's time to consider some of the lesser-known but equally as beautiful cities of Eastern Europe. From the enchanting streets of Prague and Budapest to the idyllic coastal towns of Croatia and the majestic mountains of Montenegro, Eastern Europe beckons with its charm and beauty. What's more, getting around is a breeze, thanks to an efficient network of trains, buses, and planes.
3. Explore the UK
Looking for a gap year trip that doesn't require a plane ticket? How about a staycation gap year right here in the UK? Begin your adventure in iconic London, where you can hop aboard a classic double-decker bus and marvel at the timeless grandeur of Big Ben. But why stop there? Elevate your graduation trip by venturing beyond England's capital to discover the captivating landscapes and vibrant cultures of Scotland and Wales. Cruise through the misty Scottish Highlands, where ancient castles and breathtaking scenery await around every bend, or immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Wales, with its rugged coastlines and verdant valleys.
4. Road Trip in Italy
If your heart is set on indulging in mouthwatering pizza and leisurely sipping Aperol Spritz in Italy for your gap year trip, why not make it an unforgettable Italian road trip? Cruising the winding roads of Italy not only grants you the freedom to uncover quaint spots in lesser-known cities but also allows you to bypass the hustle and bustle of crowded airports. Picture yourself cruising through picturesque landscapes, from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast, each bend in the road revealing a new chapter in your Italian adventure.
5. Discover Portugal
When you want a graduation trip full of sunshine and coastal views, then you head over to Portugal. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie looking to catch the best waves on Nosara, an explorer who is making their way through the island of Madeira, or simply ready to take in the timeless cities of Porto an Lisbon, Portugal has it all.
6. US Solo Travel
Thinking about a solo graduation trip? The US is a grand place to explore on your own, especially as a way to celebrate your graduation milestone. With cities and states you've never explored before this is your chance to hit the road, or take a flight across the country. Take in the city lights in New York City, or visit the historical towns in Georgia, each state unique with its own charm. If you've been thinking about taking a solo gap year trip then take this as a sign to pull the plunge!
7. South African Adventure
For a graduation trip brimming with adventure and relaxation, set your sights on South Africa. Begin your journey with thrilling safaris in Kruger National Park, where you can spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo) in their natural habitat. Indulge your senses in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, South Africa's premier wine regions, for world-class wine tasting amidst picturesque vineyards. Then, head to the coastal paradise of Cape Town, where pristine beaches like Clifton and Camps Bay await, offering sun-drenched sands and azure waters perfect for unwinding.
8. West Coast to East Coast
Looking for a more affordable graduation trip idea, then get ready for a coast-to-coast road trip through the USA. Embark on an epic coast-to-coast graduation adventure, starting from the sun-kissed beaches of Southern California and ending in the vibrant coastal cities of Florida. Cruise through iconic spots like Santa Monica and Miami Beach, with stops to explore along the way. From the laid-back vibes of California to the sun-soaked bliss of Florida, this road trip promises unforgettable memories with friends.
Where will you go on your gap year trip?
We hope this guide to the best gap year trips has helped you find inspiration on where to travel for your much-deserved gap year trip. Because after all the hard work you've put in, you deserve to blow off steam and do some self-discovery in an incredible new setting.
Gift Gap Year Trips With Our Airline Gift Vouchers
Do you know someone who's planning their gap year? Why not contribute to this trip of a lifetime by gifting them an airline gift voucher that they can redeem on flights with over 400 airlines to over 980 global destinations? It's the best graduation gift for travel lovers that empowers them to explore more of our beautiful planet. You can easily personalise your airline gift card by adding your own photo and writing a special message congratulating them on graduating. Choose from eGift, PDF or physical gift card formats that can all be easily redeemed online and are valid for 2 years. But the best part? Your favourite graduate chooses exactly when and where they want to go, giving them the ultimate travel freedom and taking the stress of graduation gift giving away from you.
