How To Plan The Perfect Volunteer Vacation

The next time you're planning a big get away, forget about the resort and do a little good in the world. Volunteer vacations make it possible for travelers to see another part of the globe while teaching children, planning trees, providing medical care, or helping in another way. Instead of vacationing as a tourist, you'll get an authentic view of a country and have a once in a lifetime experience. Here’s how to make your volunteer vacation extraordinary:

First, set your budget. Because air travel, trip planning, and accommodations are not free, non-profit organizations usually require that volunteers pay their own way. However, there are volunteer vacations for just about every budget. Some volunteer vacations are as short as a weekend camping trip focused on hiking trail protection. In this case, you’d only need enough cash for gas and meals. Others volunteer vacations are in remote locations and can last several months or even a year. Longer tips can cost several thousand dollars.

Second, survey your talents and interests. You may want to select a volunteer vacation that correlates with your profession. For example, doctors are needed to provide medical care, teachers are needed to work with children, and construction workers are needed to help build community centers. Not only do such trips help you develop your talents, they also look good on a resume. Alternatively, you may choose a vacation that’s a completely new experience. Track dolphins in the Bahamas, work with street children in South Africa, or promote sustainable agriculture in Tanzania. A quick online search for “volunteer vacations” will yield hundreds of possibilities. Choose the one that fits you best.

Third, plan for some “me time”. Even the most dedicated worker needs a break now and then, so be sure to schedule a little “me time” during your trip. Many volunteer vacation programs offer side trips for volunteers interested in exploring the country. For example, one program that sends volunteers to build schools in Belize also helps participants set up excursions to explore the Mayan ruins and go snorkeling in the Caribbean. You may choose to plan side trips during the course of your volunteerism, or may decide to take a longer trip at the conclusion of your vacation. Either way, taking some time for yourself will help you avoid feeling worn-out and will give you an alternative activity to get excited about.

Finally, enjoy your trip. Volunteer vacations are certainly a different way to travel. There will be challenges and struggles along the way. But, in the end, you’ll fly home with happy memories and the peace of mind that comes from realizing you’ve made a real difference in the world.