What to do on Your Gap Year

Gapping: the basics

Plan your budget

• Work out a budget: £100 a month is enough to eke out a living in many parts of the world, but you'll need more than this in Tokyo, less in India
• If there's an organised leg to your journey, see if it’s possible to do the same project or route on your own for less cash
• Take US dollars, travellers’ cheques, details of your internet bank account (calling the UK to check your balance is stressful and expensive) and a credit card with a large limit for emergencies
• Pack photocopies of your passport and any entry visas you'll need while you're away and leave extra copies with your family, just in case

Check your insurance cover

• Insurance can be expensive, so shop around. Compare deals here
• Make sure your policy is for the right length of time, covers all the destinations you intend to visit and covers you if you intend to work or do winter or water sports
• Declare any pre-existing medical conditions

Medical stuff

• Check out MASTA for the latest info on vaccinations and any country-specific medication you might need
• Injections and anti-malarials are expensive and can take time to arrange

What to take

Half of what you want to! The most important thing is to be able to pick up your own rucksack and lug it from pillar to post. Don’t forget to check the climate at your destination, particularly areas which might have dramatic fluctuations in weather.

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