Interest in the gap year has increased by up to 200% over the past year, according to New Findings from the Post’s travel insurance.
The insurer has teamed up with travel expert Monica Stott, better known as The Travel Hack, who has traveled across Europe and Asia for over 11 years, to provide her travel recommendations. sabbatical year.
Monica comments, “Choosing your gap year destinations is the most exciting part of planning your trip. Most backpackers choose destinations that are totally different from home, giving them a unique experience and insight into new cultures, but it’s also important to choose destinations based on safety.
Post Office Backpacker travel insurance is available for travelers between the ages of 18 and 60. It covers travel for up to 18 months. You can also go home for up to seven days three times.
Paul Paddock, Travel and Protection Manager at the Post Office, says: “Taking a gap year is one of the most exciting journeys an adventurer can experience in life, especially if you’re going backpacking.
“There are many great destinations to consider, as outlined in our previous Travel Safety Index. But even with these recommendations, choosing the right travel insurance cover before your trip, whether it’s a backpacker, multi-trip or single-trip policy, is essential to give you peace of mind during your trip.
- Thailand
“Thailand has been a popular backpacker destination for years thanks to its amazing beaches. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and they know how to cook and throw a great party. Thailand is also affordable and you will make friends with backpackers from all over the world.
- Australia
“Australia is a great option for UK backpackers looking to earn some extra cash while traveling. If you’re under 30, you can easily apply for a Working Holiday visa, which allows you to work for a year in Australia.
Try something new and work as a fruit picker on a rural farm, be a city dweller in Sydney or join the cool kids in Melbourne. I was scuba diving by day and waiting tables by night, island living was a great way to save money.
According to previous research by the Post, Australia ranks first in food security. It also has excellent connectivity, with a broadband speed of 87.34mb/s, which is useful for keeping in touch with nearby people while travelling.
- bali
“A lot of backpackers will go on a trip to Bali while in Australia. Work through Australia and then spend those hard-earned dollars in Bali, where you get a lot more bang for your buck. It’s an Instagram dream with infinity pools overlooking tropical jungles, waterfalls, white sand beaches and romantic little cabanas nestled in lush gardens. What’s not to love!?
- New Zealand
“If you’re looking for adventure on your gap year, then New Zealand is the place to go. From thrilling sports to awesome activities, you name it, New Zealand has it. UK backpackers under 30 can also apply for a 23-month working holiday visa so you can fund your travels while you’re away.
The wide variety of nearby medical facilities found in the Post Office search, along with the highest coverage index (87) for essential health services, make New Zealand a safe place in the event of an emergency. medical emergency.
- Slovenia
“Slovenia is one of the most affordable destinations I’ve visited as a backpacker. It is also one of the most underrated and safest destinations in Europe. Explore beautiful cities like Ljubljana and natural attractions like Lake Bled for a fraction of the cost of other European countries.”
Slovenia has been found to have one of the lowest crime rate indices among other countries, which is essential to know before deciding on a travel destination for a gap year.
For more on Gap Year travel destinations and tips for going on a gap year, visit the Post’s Travel Insurance website.