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Staying safe on your Gap Year

There are currently 150,000 UK students aged between 17 and 25 who head off annually on a Gap year. The majority of students travel independently but around 20,000 sign up with one of the many gap year organisations.

The introduction of top up fees and the average gap year organisation costing £3000 for a 3-month project or placement has recently resulted in even more individuals heading off on their own or with friends making safety a vital issue.

Five top tips for a safe Gap Year

· Pre-departure planning: Research your destinations. Find out what visas you require. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity from the date you intend to return. Get the latest medical advice for your destinations including jabs and anti-malarials. Make sure your insurance covers you worldwide for all eventualities.

· Equipment: You will need a 65-litre rucksack. Take a money belt. A pair of trekking boots and sports sandals are essential. A rape alarm and door lock are especially useful for girls.

· In-country travel: Sit near to the bus driver. Avoid hiring cars. Order taxis via your youth hostel or hotel. Buy your own food for train journeys. Avoid hitch hiking.

· Health: Drink plenty of water in hot countries. Purify your water. Eat plenty of fruit. Carry a first-aid kit. Be aware of altitude sickness above 3000m.

· Safety and security: Lower your profile. Be on your guard in cities and towns. Hand over your money if confronted by muggers. Let someone; somewhere know your rough plans.

TO SUM UP

You may only have one chance in your life to take a year out. With proper planning, you could make it the best year of your life, developing skills which will help you through university and in the world of work.

To find out more about staying safe whilst travelling, visit Ultimate Gap Year. The above article is just a flavour of some of the issues covered during their one-day travel safety course in London. Further details available at http://www.ultimategapyear.co.uk

This article along with other advice and open day information for colleges and universities in the UK is available at http://www.opendays.com