Volunteer Abroad — 50 Tips That Will Help You A Lot
Volunteering is a noble cause and an amazing way to give back to society. But when you plan for your first responsible trip, you don’t know how to start, where to go, what will I do and so on.
For your convenience, I have created a list of some tips that you can follow to make your journey memorable. I have separated the tips into 3 sections to make this list more effective. Let’s have a look:
Phase 1 — Ask questions, do research, and pack smart
1. Why do I want to volunteer abroad?
2. Why should I pay to volunteer?
3. How will I convince my parents to volunteer abroad?
4. What kind of project should I join?
5. How would I get the VISA and my Travel and Medical Insurance?
6. Do research about the destination, it’s past, present, culture, festivals, cuisine, etc. where you want to go for volunteering
7. Do research about the organization and read its reviews online
8. Connect with the past volunteers to know about their experiences to that particular country or organization
9. Apply for the project once you have decided because it’s always good to book your seat in advance.
10. Keep in touch with program advisors to check about all the necessary documents you should carry with you
11. Manage your finances before heading to the destinations. While many of the things like food, accommodation are covered in the program still you need some cash for your personal expenses.
12. If you are planning to raise fund for your volunteering trip, create an account on any fundraising website and convince your friends and family members to donate money for this noble cause.
13. Book your air tickets as soon as possible after applying for the project. Booking in advance can save a lot.
14. Create a checklist of the places and things you want to do in your chosen country.
15. Learn a few words of the local language as it will help you to interact with the local community
16. Consult with your doctor and take the necessary vaccinations
17. Pack your medicines as prescribed by the doctor
18. Also, keep a handy and small first-aid pouch with band-aids, antiseptic cream, cotton, and painkillers, etc..
19. Don’t pack unnecessary things. Travel light.
20. Pack only comfortable clothes. Don’t over pack with party wears and revealing clothes.
21. Don’t forget to carry your toiletries and cosmetics.
22. Always keep the insect repellent with yourself as you might need it more often.
23. Don’t forget to pack your travel documents.
24. Carry your power bank, travel charger, camera, extra memory cards, torch, etc — you’ll need them all.
25. Do research about the weather of your volunteering destination. Pack woolens, rain gear and shoes according to the requirement.
Phase 2 — Things to keep in mind during the project
26. Talk to the country coordinator about your work schedule
27. Try to adopt the skills that your peers possess.
28. Keep a journal to document your journey. Take photographs, videos, etc. Write daily about your experiences and conversations.
29. Keep in touch with friends and family and keep them updated about your journey.
30. Take care of yourself — get adequate sleep, eat well and keep yourself hydrated.
31. Don’t be scared to try new things.
32. Spend quality time with your host family (in case you are living in a homestay).
33. Be flexible — the more you’ll open up, the more you will learn about the world around you.
34. Be a little more alert while you are on the go and try not to go alone late at night.
35. If you wish to explore the nightlife of your project country, inform your coordinator and ask your fellow volunteers to come with you. It’s always better to venture out in a group, at night.
36. Save the emergency contacts so that you can seek help when required.
37. Never drink alcohol with a stranger nor accept anything eatable from the strangers.
38. Never roam with your travel documents. Keep them safely at the accommodation.
39. Keep your program coordinator updated with your weekend travel plans.
40. Don’t carry too much cash and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
41. Learn to be a responsible traveler. Avoid plastic products (bottles and packets) while traveling and littering.
42. Visit the local markets and get a chance to buy some amazing souvenirs!
43. Savor the taste of the local cuisine because every country has some special delicacy to offer!
Phase 3 — Experiences you will get after volunteering
44. Your volunteering experience can boost your Resume/ CV.
45. You’ll be able to manage your time and resources in a better way.
46. You’ll be confident while dealing with people in your life ahead.
47. The connections that you’ll make while volunteering abroad might help you to get better opportunities in the future.
48. You can start your own blog, share your tips, experiences, your thoughts and encourage other future volunteers for a noble cause.
49. Volunteering will improve your leadership skills.
50. Last but not least — it’s a unique way to make some beautiful memories that would last for a lifetime!
I hope these tips help you to make you ready for your volunteering journey.
Keep Travelling. Happy Volunteering
