So you’re ready to see a bit of the world? Great! Now, how will you go about doing that? Where will you stay? What will you eat? How will you afford it all?

I wrestled with these questions and more when I started travelling in 2012! Unfortunately, I didn’t have anyone to answer them for me. Luckily, I’ve made the mistakes, lost money, and learned from it all so that you don’t have to struggle as much as I did! Pack your bags because it’s time to leave home and travel before your 30 (or 40, 50…)! Your flight to anywhere awaits.

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, I do not receive compensation from Camphill for mentioning them nor have I been commissioned by the organisation to write these posts. I’ve had a fantastic time volunteering, travelling and meeting hundreds of international volunteers and I finally have the platform to tell you about it. TheTravellingMS.com merely represents my views alone and my experiences.

(this post may contain affiliate links and/or ads which means at no additional cost to you, I may receive compensation for qualifying clicks and/or purchases)

Volunteering with a reputable organisation is a great way to help out and to travel

I started volunteering with an organisation called Camphill in California after a friend from uni recommended it to me. This year marks my SIXTH year volunteering with Camphills in North America and Europe. There are over 100 locations on nearly every continent.

I have appreciated volunteering with an organisation which understands that many people are looking for a well-rounded experience and some, the opportunity to explore and travel simultaneously.

For instance, Camphill volunteers are offered weeks of holiday (sometimes extra pocket money designated for holidays) and a wealth of knowledge about travelling on a budget in the area. It’s healthy and far more enjoyable to have a balance between your work and social life.

Save your pocket money while you’re volunteering rent-free

Once I arrive, Camphill takes the wheel and helps me settle into my new life for a year. These provisions I mentioned before spare me the headache of finding a place to stay and budgeting for meals in a new country. Some Camphills even purchase your ticket home (up to a certain amount) upon successful completion of your volunteer year!

Since basic needs are taken care of, one tends to focus more on responsibilities as a volunteer rather than food shopping or council tax. Then, pocket money or monthly allowance given to all volunteers can be saved for trips on your day(s) off or pooled with other volunteers for a group holiday!

Throughout my years as a volunteer, housing, food and basic toiletries have been provided for me. I am only required to cover my visa (if necessary), insurance and ticket there. I’ve put together a full description of the application process.

Travel and meet new people as a volunteer

I was fortunate that I fell in love with the first organisation where I volunteered. There is such a strong network of volunteers and a sense of community which has allowed me to seamlessly travel from one country to the next.

I have met some of my closest friends through volunteering abroad and formed relationships that I may not have had the chance to do otherwise! Long days and busy timetables have a way of gelling people who may be as different as chalk and cheese. 

I do recognise that there is no such thing as a one-volunteer-opportunity-fits-all. Camphill has worked well for me but I understand that it’s not for everyone. It’s important to do your research and volunteer wherever your interests lie!

Use your year(s) as a volunteer wisely. By “wisely” I mean go on that camping trip, offer to lead a group activity, organise a bonfire or a pub night for fellow volunteers. You might just love it.

Have you left home for a bit and travelled recently?? Please feel free to share below and tell me how you managed to do it!

Yours in travel,

B the travelling MS