Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Planning a gap-year can be a very exciting time. In order to get the most out of and enjoy it
to the fullest you need to plan and prepare for every eventuality. Staying safe is the key to
having a good time.
These days research comes in many different forms, books, websites, fairs and courses.
Safety courses have increased in popularity in the last few years particularly with celebrit-
ies such as Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman taking part and training before their
high-profile motorcycle trips.
There are a number of different courses run by various companies across the country ran-
ging from two hours to two days, the one thing they all have in common is that they are run
by instructors with first-hand experience, a priceless tool.
Why attend a course? Why not? Attending a specialist gap-safety course can be a vital tool
in the planning and preparation of your trip, increasing self-awareness and enabling you to
recognise danger and get yourself out of tricky situations.
Most of the courses follow a similar format, covering:
Before you go
- research, cultural differences, preparation, insurance, documents and
money.
What to take
- the clothing you will need, first aid kits, gadgets, electrical items, security
of your belongings and tips on economical packing.
Over there
- accommodation, food and water, transport, local authorities and awareness
of a new environment and laws.
Medical Issues
- emergency first aid, staying healthy, self-defence, climate, bites, bugs
and vaccinations.
Many of the courses will also run a 'for girls, by girls' session.
Make sure you know enough about what you want to do and where you want to go, talk to
other travellers (there are many messageboards online). If you're travelling with an organ-
isation, check them out; ask to speak to others that have done the same trip.
Ensure you have adequate travel insurance to cover everything you want to do including
working both paid and voluntary plus any activities you have in mind to do.
Make sure you have copies of all of your documents, try an online document safe. Ensure
you have telephone numbers of people to contact in an emergency; emergency medical as-
sistance company, someone at home and if possible someone in the same country.
Travelling to unknown countries can be a great culture shock so a little preparation before-
hand will ensure that you make the most of all of your opportunities without missing out.
The point is that as long as you have done all you could to be well prepared with travelling
essentials and knowledge, then you should go for it!
