Traveling often comes with a price. When we travel for leisure, we obviously need a budget to make things work, such as money for transportation, food, lodging, and recreation. However, there’s another form of traveling that doesn’t cost a lot while still allowing you to create a positive impact on the world.
Philanthropist Marc Zboch explains that this strategy is possible through travel. If you are someone who is passionate about making a difference, learning about other people’s cultures, and have a limited budget, this may be a great idea.
In this post, Marc Zboch explains some ways how you can pursue traveling for free and helping others through some ingenious ideas.
How to Travel to Other Countries to Help Out Even When You Don’t Have a Lot of Money
Look for organizations offering volunteer opportunities
Many non-profit organizations are offering volunteer opportunities to people while sponsoring their trips to a specific country. CNN has a great list of ideas featuring some organizations that open applications on such opportunities.
A well-known example is the Peace Corps, where volunteers will get to participate in programs that improve nations through healthcare, education, agriculture, and other industries.
Not only will you receive free accommodation and travel, but you will also get to have a brand new perspective on living and being part of a new community.
Teaching a skill to students on other countries
Helping others does not always have to be through volunteer work. One can also earn an income, travel, and help others through a job.
You can teach a skill such as English as a Second Language (ESL) or being a lecturer on a subject in a foreign school or university. There are many programs that will provide you with the certification, travel, and other accomodations to make this possible.
This does not have to be a permanent position, as some companies have yearly contracts. Such time will be enough for you to explore another country and help others through your knowledge and expertise.
Crowdfunding your volunteer trip
If you desire to make a specific change in a country close to your heart and have networks to start projects, you can find ways to fund your own volunteer trip.
There are many ways to do this, such as through online donations or crowdfunding. You can reach out to friends, family, and other social networks as you launch your project. It’s a wonderful way to let others know about your cause.
When funding your volunteer trip, make sure to create a detailed plan so that potential donors and sponsors will be more convinced that your idea will create a positive impact to your country destination.
Work in exchange for travel
This idea is quite different from international contract work, as this involves a company sponsoring your travel and accomodations as you work with them pro bono.
A lot of organic farms, research companies, and other industries that need specific knowledge and skill sets in other countries could use some help and are willing to sponsor professionals for a certain period of time. You can use this time to gain experience and explore another country while helping out.
Free, Impactful, and Fun: Traveling To Make A Difference
These ideas shared by Marc Zboch are some of the best ways to travel for free while practicing volunteerism. Hopefully, these will provide inspiration on how you can get started with your traveling plans.