You can volunteer your time doing teaching, animal conservation, construction, farming and agriculture, and so much more when you volunteer abroad. There are so many different volunteer projects all around the world.
I have gone on three volunteer trips, taught in Fiji, done sea turtle conservation in Bali, and worked at a healing centre in Portugal. I have had such an amazing time volunteering abroad so I want to share so you can start your volunteering abroad journey.
This post will be all about finding the right volunteer abroad program for you.
Why do people volunteer abroad?
There are many reasons why people choose to volunteer abroad but there are two key reasons. One reason is it is a more affordable way to travel so travellers wanting to spend longer in one location can have their accommodations and sometimes food, transport, and activities included in exchange for volunteering a few hours a day to work on a project. Another reason many people choose to volunteer abroad is to get work experience in a field they are interested in. For example, if you want to be a teacher, veterinarian, or doctor there are volunteer projects around the world you can work at. Also just making connections to the local community and your fellow volunteers is more reason to volunteer abroad.
What volunteer abroad programs are out there?
There are SO many volunteer abroad programs out there which is both a positive and negative. With so many volunteer abroad programs you have so many opportunities to find the perfect volunteer program for you. But the negative of so many volunteer abroad companies is it can be overwhelming to find a reliable program that is everything you are looking for. I won’t attempt to name all the volunteer programs because I would not be able to but the two volunteer companies I have volunteered with are International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) and Worldpackers. I had a great experience volunteering with both companies. Two other volunteer programs I have heard a lot about are Workaway and Global Work and Travel.
How do I find the perfect volunteer abroad program?
To find the perfect volunteer program for you you need to know what you are looking for. What projects are you interested in? Where do you want to volunteer abroad? What is your budget for volunteering abroad? These are all questions you need to ask yourself before you start your search for the best volunteer abroad programs. Each volunteer abroad program has different project types, destinations, and prices. Here is a chart comparing the prices, projects, destinations, and reviews for the four volunteer programs mentioned before to help you start your search for the perfect volunteer abroad program.
What is included when you volunteer abroad?
What is included when you volunteer abroad with Worldpackers?
There are a number of things included in your stay when volunteering with Worldpackers but it depends on the volunteer project you apply to. Every volunteer opportunity on Worldpackers includes free accommodations and support from the Worldpackers team but often has other inclusions. Some volunteer positions include free food, drinks, laundry, tours, pick-up/drop-off, and more. Check out the Worldpackers website to find a volunteer opportunity you are interested in a read through everything that is included.
@never_ending_travelWhen volunteering with Worldpackers each volunteer project is different but the volunteer project I volunteered with included all of these for free! If you want to volunteer with Worldpackers use code NEVERENDINGTRAVEL for $10 off worldpackers memberships♬ original sound – Like
What is included when you volunteer abroad with IVHQ?
Volunteering with IVHQ includes accommodations, food, in-country support from the local team, and pick-up from the airport all within the program and registration fee.
@never_ending_travel My experience volunteering in Bali! #seaturtleconservation #volunteerabroad #ubudbali #nusapenidabali #ivhq ♬ original sound – Never Ending Travel Bucketlist
What is included when you volunteer abroad with Workaway?
When you volunteer with Workaway your fee includes connection with other travellers, a reference letter, and 24-hour support while you volunteer if you were ever to need any help.
What is included when you volunteer abroad with Global Work and Travel?
If you decide to volunteer with Global Work and Travel you will be provided with a variety of things included in your fee. These inclusions are pre-departure guides, accommodations, meals, 24-hour support, airport transfer, and more depending on the volunteer project you decide to volunteer with.
How to start volunteering abroad?
Once you have done your research on the right volunteer abroad program for you it is time to take the leap and start volunteering abroad. Visit my blog post “How to Volunteer Abroad 6 Step-by-Step Instructions” to help you go on your first volunteer trip.
That brings us to the end of how to find the perfect volunteer abroad program for you. There are lots of volunteer programs out there so first you need to know what you are looking for regarding budget, destination, and volunteer project. Whichever volunteer company you go with I am sure you will have the most amazing trip volunteering abroad. If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment or message me on Tiktok I am happy to answer any questions you may have about volunteering abroad. Happy volunteering and safe travels!
