Global Crossroad – Meaningful Volunteering Abroad

What kinds of skills are required?

How do I know if my program of interest has specific requirements? If I am under 18, can I still participate in a program?

Many programs accept volunteers of all ages, and in general the most important requirement is that you are passionate and motivated to help people in need.

In general, there are two exceptions to this: English teaching programs sometimes require previous experience and often require that the volunteer is fluent in English. Medical volunteering work abroad requires a background in medicine or that you are at least a pre-med student.

How do you know which project and country are the right fit for you?

With so many options to choose from, how can I narrow down my selection? What type of volunteer work abroad would you advise for someone who has never traveled abroad?

Asking yourself what you’re passionate about! If you’re not sure, try and make a list of things you enjoy doing. What brings you joy? What do you like to do on the weekends? If you love talking to people and playing games, an orphanage or teaching project would suit you well since you will interact with children. If you like spending time outdoors, I would recommend looking into conservation projects. If you’ve considered going into the medical field, working with HIV/AIDS outreach or healthcare programs might benefit you the most.

With respect to selecting volunteering abroad destination, you may analyze how far you are willing to step outside of your comfort zone. Some countries may have access to certain creature comforts, whereas others may have very limited resources. Some languages may feel more familiar while others are completely foreign. Certain country’s populations have higher poverty rates and therefore a greater need for volunteers. I have always volunteered and traveled to Latin American countries because I am infatuated with Latin culture and enjoy listening to the Spanish language, even I can’t speak it proficiently.

Grab a pencil and paper and start brainstorming! List your passions on one side of the page, and then list countries you’re interested in or would feel comfortable traveling to on the other. This is a great way to get your selection process started.

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices for programs and countries, you now have to research which volunteer organizations will provide you with a good volunteer abroad experience.

How to select the best and cheap volunteer abroad organization?

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the quantity of organizations offering to facilitate your volunteer experience? Not sure how to pick out the cheap and best volunteer abroad programs and organizations from “middlemen” organizations only interested in making a profit?

Here’s a tip: don’t just type “ best volunteer abroad programs” into Google’s search bar and go with the first company that comes up. You’ll want to do your research. This choice is very important because the organization you select will affect your safety, budget, and overall experience.

I didn’t research very thoroughly on my second trip, and I wound up paying for a low-quality experience. (I’ll tell you about that a little later in this guide…) I offer a few suggestions that will help you spot the phonies from best and cheap abroad volunteer programs & organizations:

Check the organization’s website to determine their credibility. Look for clear and accurately written information, an ‘about us’ section, and social media account communications with their followers.

Compare the program fees with other organizations. The best organization provides meaningful abroad volunteering programs at a cheap price. Also, investigate to obtain a clear idea how the company allocates your program fees. If they are taking a large portion of your fees for administration or don’t explain where your money goes, it is likely the organization is motivated by profit.

• Review the organization’s ratings and reviews and avoid organizations who get negative reviews. You can also ask the company for references or past volunteer contact information to get a direct review of the program.
• Test the organization’s communication by sending them an email or two to see how fast they reply. If they reply within 24 hours, that’s a great indicator that they most likely provide quality and professional service.
• Evaluate the volunteer abroad organization’s commitment to local causes by analyzing their community projects and the types of local organizations they partner with.
• Ask about experience. If the organization’s website doesn’t explain how many years they have been in business, they may not be reliable or not know what they’re doing.

While remembering that all volunteer organizations have their limitations, the best providers will have a good reputation with field-tested staff who care about your personal journey. They will provide a high quality volunteer abroad experience at a cheap and transparent price.

Speaking of prices, how much does it cost to volunteer abroad?

What should I expect to pay for a program fee? How much money should I expect to spend outside of my program? Why there are only a few cheap volunteer abroad programs available? Why is volunteering so expensive when you’re helping people?

While you may hope that your volunteer efforts will give you free room and board, many developing countries just don’t have the means to donate resources in that way. You should become familiar with all of the potential expenses before committing to a volunteer abroad adventure and understand that the amount of money you pay depends on a multitude of factors. These include the country you plan to visit, the program type you’re interested in, and how long you plan to stay. Specialized programs (such as medical or dental work) in countries where poverty rates are low tend to be more expensive than more general programs (working with orphans or in conservation) in very poor countries.

The cheap abroad volunteer opportunity cost about $200 for two weeks whereas expensive programs cost about $3000. These expenses include lodging, meals, a project donation, supervision, and more and tend to be covered in your program fee. The best organizations will insist that the volunteer pay their host families and project donation directly, so that they know for sure the money is going to people who need it. Many organizations also ask that you pay a registration fee, which generally supports the volunteer organizations’ administrative costs including things like advertising, utilities, rent, employee salaries, and other business expenses.

Besides these abroad volunteer opportunity fees which cover your project you should also plan to invest money in airfare and travel expenses, vaccinations, insurance, climate appropriate clothing and footwear, travel gear, and other personal expenses such as buying souvenirs or visiting tourist attractions. We’ll explain a bit more about these details in the next chapter.

Volunteer organizations do not usually offer grants or discounts to volunteers because their fees are dependent on the number of volunteers they have. Most organizations are NGOs, meaning that they don’t receive government funding and depend solely on volunteer money.

Is there any way to reduce the cost?

Are you concerned about extra costs you may not anticipate up front? If you want to know how you can be frugal abroad, let me tell you about how you can either raise money or reduce the cost of your volunteer abroad experience.

• Reach out to friends, family, and online resources to learn about how much people spent and if they have tips for saving while abroad.
• Use a spreadsheet to plan a detailed budget ahead of time. This can help you understand where your money will go. Tracking your money as you travel will also help you spend money mindfully.
• Research local currency and be prepared to do math when purchasing so you understand how much money you are spending.
• Volunteering abroad during off-season. Airplane tickets tend to be cheaper!
• Check to see if vaccinations are covered by your health insurance or if there are any free or low-cost clinics in your immediate area.
• Limit personal spending including snacks, souvenirs, eating out, personal travel, going out on the town, etc. If you want to take full advantage of being abroad and don’t like the idea of limiting your personal funds, that’s okay! Just make sure to plan a bigger budget.
• Start a fundraising campaign or reach out to family and friends for support of your volunteer travel programs abroad. If you explain your motives and intentions well, you could really save a lot of money.

OK – so you understand why you have to pay for this experience. But before you dive in further, let’s talk about the realities of what to expect from your accommodations.

What kind of lodging and meals can I expect in my host country?

Will I stay with a host family? Should I expect to buy my own food? Will I be able to do laundry and have access to the internet?

These questions are super important because your accommodations can really make or break your abroad volunteering experience, and accommodations vary greatly depending on your project location and organization.

You will probably live with a host family or in volunteer housing and receive local meals. The level of accommodation you receive really depends on local resources. Generally, these aren’t very flexible. You may not be given the choice of accommodation type you’d like to receive, you may have to share your room, and you may not be able to choose what type of food you want to eat during mealtimes.

Let’s break this down a bit, starting with lodging. Here are the three most common lodging accommodations during your volunteer opportunity abroad:

Host families: host families are local families that have been vetted (investigated and specially selected) by the volunteer organization. These locals have agreed to take in one or more volunteer and provide them with a bed and food. Since this is a very common type of lodging in volunteer abroad programs, I will explain more details about staying with a local family in the next chapter.

Volunteer House or hostel: Volunteer houses and hostels are normally communal, dorm style living arrangements where your house- or hostel-mates may or may not be volunteering.

Cabin or tent: Staying in primitive living conditions during your volunteer project abroad is not likely but may be necessary if you’re working in a very remote area. This happens most often with medical volunteers as they often aim to provide healthcare to rural communities.

In some cases, you may be able to choose between staying with a host family or staying in a hostel. I have stayed in both, and each have their own perks and drawbacks. Staying in a volunteer house or hostel allows you to create strong connections with fellow volunteers and gives you a bit more independence. However, staying with a host family will help you better connect with the community you’re serving and provide you with a more authentic abroad volunteering experience. If you’re given the option to choose, think about what is best for you as an individual and the type of experience you want to have.

Depending on where you live, there may be certain rules you should follow, and of course you should always treat the facility, your family, and your housemates with respect. I love hearing about when volunteers feel as if they’re lodging is a home-away-from home, but you are also still a guest and should act in an appropriate manner. Keep your room and living area clean, help with cooking, don't come home drunk or disruptive, and don't bring home outside guests without prior permission.

With respect to food, most volunteer abroad organizations will accommodate at least two meals per day, but again this depends on your specific project location and what resources the community has available. If you stay in a hostel, you may be asked to cook your own food.

The food you eat will be local, fresh, and delicious! But it may be different than what you are used to, so remember to keep an open mind during your time abroad and try to eat as much local cuisine as you can. Your host family may ask you what you like and don’t like – it is okay to be honest but be respectful and don’t demand certain foods.

Most food allergies and special diets can be accommodated, but you should discuss this with your volunteer organization to make sure. Never assume that your dietary needs can be accommodated without checking ahead of time.

Other accommodations depend on your volunteer abroad program location, so I will discuss these in a very general sense. The best thing to do for specific information is to ask questions to your volunteer organization.

Laundry: You may pay your host family to do your laundry for you, or they may let you use their laundry machine free of charge. In some countries, like India, it is offensive for the host family to do your laundry. In this case, you will need to use a laundry mat.

Internet: If your volunteer overseas work is in a major city, you be able to access Wi-Fi by visiting an internet café or coffee shop during your down time.

Electricity: Access to electricity really depends. Some countries in Africa and Asia still function regularly without electricity, and power may only be available during certain times of day.

Toiletries: You should bring your own toiletries, but don’t over pack. You will have access to local markets where you can buy common toiletry supplies.

Hot water: Hot water is not guaranteed. Many cultures take cold water showers or don’t have access to electricity.

Curious about staying with a homestay family, but want more details? Keep reading and I will tell you the in-depth details of what this unique and authentic volunteering abroad experience is like!

What’s it like living with a host family?

If your motivated for volunteering abroad is to experience culture or learn another language, you can’t ask for much more than staying with a local family. To discern which family you should join, most volunteer organizations will ask you a series of questions ranging from your comfort with the language to whether or not you like children. This will help your organization match you with a good family.

There are many benefits from staying with a homestay family, which include giving extra income to a deserving family, gaining an incredibly authentic experience, strengthening your community ties, and opening up opportunities for language practice.

Upon your arrival to volunteer abroad program destination, you may feel a bit out of place, and it might take a little time to adjust. This is completely normal, so don’t feel bad about feeling this way. Talking to people will help you process and work through your adjustment period.

Often times the first thing you will do upon arrival to your family’s house is sit with them and drink coffee or tea. This is a great way to ask questions and get to know them a bit better. Even if there’s a language barrier, your efforts to reach out to them will be valued and appreciated. They have to adjust to you as much as you have to adjust with them!

It’s a good idea to bring a small inexpensive gift for your host family and present it to them upon arrival as a token of gratitude for allowing you to stay with them. A gift representative of your home country or your life and background is always a good way to start up conversation. Some common gift ideas include candy, chocolates, a t-shirt from your favorite sports team, a favorite book translated into the local language, a nice notebook, etc. It's nice to get your host family something that they couldn't ordinarily get at their local market.

You can spend time with your family by cooking meals together, sharing stories, playing games, watching TV, or helping them with house or homework. Be prepared for the ups and downs of normal family life during your volunteer abroad experience. Be respectful! Don’t take super long showers or eat all their food or leave a mess. Help around the house as much as you can and attempt to speak their language often. Immersion is the best learning tool, and you’ll find that you leave your homestay more proficient in your host countries language and a thorough understanding of local culture.

Most homestay families will welcome you with open arms and accept you as a member of the family, but they may be nervous to meet you and make a good impression. Take things one day at a time and remember that local customs can differ greatly from western culture. Try to avoid controversial issues like religion, politics, gender roles, and sexual orientation. Should these topics come up, speak with respect and caution understanding that your host family has different societal norms while in abroad volunteering trip. If any issues arrive, discuss with your in-country coordinator.

The time you spend with your host family can really enhance your volunteer experience, so it is important that you try to connect with them.

Here’s a few more tips for living with your host family:

• Do not consume alcohol, smoke, or do drugs in your host family’s home.
• Dress modestly and avoid any dating or romantic activities with members of the host family.
• Do not use the belongings of the host family (TV, radio, DVD player, bicycle, etc) without permission.
• Keep your room clean.
• You are responsible for your laundry.
• Do not bring home any friends or romantic partners without the permission of your host family.
• Your host family will give you some instructions about mealtimes and curfew. Please respect these guidelines.

Will I have a support system while abroad?

While you’re volunteering abroad, it is likely that you face challenges on a daily basis. Whether you’re looking for advice or confronting a larger issue, your volunteer organization’s in-country support staff should be there for you.

Most volunteer organizations follow one of two models. They either have their own volunteer abroad in country field office with staff members or they work through local volunteer organizations taking on the role of the middleman and the head of the local volunteer abroad organizations acts as your support. No matter which model your volunteer organization uses, your support staff is responsible for airport port pickup, managing homestays, orientation and introduction to the culture, host family, and project, periodic follow ups to ensure your stay is going smooth, and to provide advice for any issues or concerns. You should ensure you have their contact information on hand should anything happen.

Are you still with us in your quest for an incredible volunteer journey? Let’s start thinking about how we can take action to make this happen.

How and when can I apply to volunteer abroad?

What is the process like to join a volunteer abroad program? How far in advance should I apply to work abroad? What does the application process entail?

Volunteer abroad applications are typically very straight forward. Your volunteer organization should provide an online application. This application may be quite extensive, so you’ll want to be prepared to supply your personal information, project of choice, reasoning behind wanting to volunteer, and more.

Sometimes organizations will ask you to do an interview or write a statement of interest. You will also most likely be asked to pay a deposit or booking fee ranging from $50 to $500 to hold your volunteer spot. The deposit is part of the overall cost of your program. For example, if your abroad volunteering program application fee is $299, and your deposit is $99, you will have $200 left to pay after you are accepted.

After you submit your online application, it is forwarded to your host country's main office, where the local staff will review it, assess your interest in the program, and examine your educational and personal background to determine if you are a good fit for the project.

It may take a little while to hear back (normally between 1-3 weeks), but once you are approved to volunteer abroad in your program of choice you will receive a confirmation of your acceptance and the details of your placement. This should include everything you need to know about pre-departure requirements, project details, itineraries and schedules, visa information, vaccination requirements, in-country office details, accommodation details, and more.

Very few people are rejected from volunteer programs. One thing that may bar you from volunteering abroad is prior criminal history. If you have been in trouble with the law before, it’s important that you’re upfront about this with your organization.

If you’re looking for an exact timeline of when you should apply for your program, I will say that earlier is always better. You’ll want ample time to prepare, book your flight in advance for cheaper prices, purchase belongings, arrange your visa, and get immunizations that may take up to 6 weeks to complete. My best recommendation is to apply about 3 months in advance; however, some organizations may allow you to apply up to 2 weeks before departure. Rushing this part of the process can cause you stress and get your volunteer abroad experience off to a bad start.

Let’s talk about some other need-to-know details before embarking on your volunteer adventure.

Do I need any vaccinations?

How do I learn about which vaccinations I need to obtain for my host country? Can I volunteer abroad without getting vaccinated?

Some vaccinations are required, while others are only recommended. You can investigate which vaccines you may need by visiting the Center for Disease Control’s website or talking with your host-country coordinator. Make sure to plan your vaccinations with plenty of time because some take up to 6 weeks to complete!

Why is getting vaccinated important for volunteer travel abroad? Proper preventative measures can avert some pretty terrible situations. Because you will be in a new country and your immune system may not be functioning at its best due to stresses from travel, you may be more apt to come in contact with harmful diseases and nasty viruses.

Make sure to schedule a visit to your doctor or healthcare provider and ask them about the vaccinations recommended for your country. Discuss any preexisting diseases that may make you susceptible to new diseases. You should also plan accordingly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or traveling with children.

Speaking of health, you may be wondering:

Should I invest in travel insurance?

The short answer is yes! But let’s talk about why.

As previously mentioned, your body endures a variety of external and internal stresses when you are traveling abroad for volunteering programs that can really take a toll on your immune system. You may be more susceptible to germs or bacterium because of this. The best way to handle getting sick abroad is to be prepared. If you normally take certain medications, bring enough with you for the duration of your trip. If you experience motion sickness or headaches, bring OTC medicine you may need to use. Make sure to take care of yourself by staying hydrated, eating well, and using proper sanitation.

In the case that something unfortunate does happen, though, the same lines of thinking apply be prepared. How can you do that? Invest in travel insurance.

Most volunteer abroad programs are based in or around cities, so hospitals are typically not too far away in the case that you should fall ill, but you should confirm medical facilities before departing. There are even some clinics that specialize in processing foreign insurance. Check with your current insurance company to see how their policies function while abroad. They may cover general illness but may not cover accidents that happen during adventure activities or evacuation expenses.

This is another reason to purchase travel insurance. Most travel insurance policies offer specialized coverage for potential tourist accident situations. Some may cover issues outside of health as well, such as damage to electronics. You can often tailor travel insurance to cover exactly what you need while joining volunteer travel opportunity abroad.

Regardless of the what your specific plan covers, travel insurance is essential for anyone volunteering abroad to ensure your safety and wellbeing.

Should I bring extra money?

You should bring some extra money to cover transportation needs, personal snacks, and essential toiletries – as well as just in case of emergencies. However, the overall amount you’re going to bring will depend on additional activities you’re planning on doing while volunteering abroad. If you plan to travel around the country after your project ends, go sightseeing in your free time, eat out, socialize, take part in adventure activities, go shopping or visit local attractions you should factor this into your pre-trip budgeting.

What do I need to pack?

Once you’ve applied for you abroad volunteer project of choice, been accepted, and booked your flight – the next thing you’ll want to do is start packing. The items you will need to pack will vary depending on your project’s location, work type, and how long you will be staying.

As someone who has lived out of a suitcase for months on end, I understand how stressful packing can be. You want to plan for all types of adventures you may encounter while still feeling comfortable with the necessities you’ve brought along. It’s a pretty delicate balance.

I like to think about different situations I may find myself in. Will I go swimming? Should I prepare for a situation where I get sick? Does my volunteer work abroad have a dress code? Do I have enough medication and personal supplies for the length of my stay? Asking yourself these questions will certainly help you plan to pack well.

Your volunteer organization will likely provide you with a general packing list, but you should not limit yourself to what’s on that list.

You will have to tote your luggage around with you wherever you go. If you are going to multiple destinations or have to travel a lot to get to where you are going, this can be quite cumbersome. Try to pack light to avoid this. Here’s a packing list to help you think of things you won’t want to forget:

• Passport and travel documentation (including travel insurance papers/card, itineraries, important contact information, copies of medical history/list of allergies and medications
• Reusable plastic or Ziplock bags – when it comes to travel, they are good for everything, don't take up space or weight, and are handy to have around
• Travel adapter and convertor if needed
• Your phone, camera, or other electronics – but only take the essentials. If traveling with expensive or easily damaged electronics, make sure you get insurance
• First aid supplies with things like aspirin, Band-Aids, antiseptic, gauze, vitamins (especially vitamin C), anti–nausea and anti–diarrhea medication, etc.
• Sunscreen and bug spray to protect yourself and stay comfortable while working outdoors
• A small amount of extra cash
• A small daypack for carrying your daily essentials
• Comfortable, durable, and ideally waterproof shoes (Chaco’s are my choice!)
• Flip flops or lightweight shower shoes
• Sunglasses and a bathing suit
• A light rain jacket or umbrella
• A windbreaker or warm jacket and hat
• Work gloves for those doing physically demanding abroad volunteer work such as construction, maintenance, etc.
• A country guidebook and/or foreign language dictionary (optional)
• Some form of personal entertainment be it a book, kindle, journal, etc.
• Basic toiletries
• A reusable water bottle
• A small flashlight and batteries or a headlamp
• Clothing – bring clothing that is appropriate for your location, season, and the type of work you are going to do. Packing clothes that can easily be layered is key. Keep items to a minimum and just do laundry when you need to.
• One nice outfit just in case you need to dress up for anything
• A gift for your host family
• Towel/sheets/bedding if applicable
• Mosquito netting if applicable

Always remember that even if you forget something, there’s going to be a store with essentials wherever you are going. Lay out your gear days in advance to be sure you have room for everything you need and can edit out things that are unnecessary.

What information should I have before departure?

You are packed, and ready volunteer abroad, but before you walk out the door, I’d like to give you a list to ensure that you are 100% prepared (mentally and physically) before getting on your plane. Double check to make sure that you have:

• Your passport (original and copies)& flight confirmation details
• Sent flight detailed to your volunteer agency and confirmed airport pickup
• Obtained your visa/checked to ensure that your visa is up to date
• Gotten the appropriate vaccines
• Read the safety precautions for the country you’re traveling to
• Understood what to expect from your volunteer abroad project
• Written down all emergency contact and support staff information (names, websites, email addresses, phone numbers - anything that will help you to transition easily)
• Looked up climate information and packed appropriate clothing for free time and work
• Knowledge of what to expect upon arrival
• Information about your host family (you should know names, how many are in the household, their jobs, their address and a phone number if available) and/or housing accommodations(access to hot showers and laundry facilities, if you will you have a room to yourself, about the type of food and what time they eat).
• Memorized key language phrases
• Realistic expectations (remember that you are traveling to developing countries; you will see poverty, extreme health problems, lack of education, slums and underdeveloped communities).
• Made sure you are ready to travel, contribute your time and energy to humanitarian causes, face challenges, and start the unique experience of a lifetime!
• Packed a carry-on bag with ample clothing in the event that your luggage is lost or delayed. With numerous connecting flights, there is always a chance that your luggage may be mishandled or misplaced.
• Called your volunteering abroad agency to confirm that all the details are clear, ask any last-minute questions and check, that nothing has changed.

Do you have everything ready? Excellent. Now…

Take everything as an adventure

Some days abroad will be good, and others not so much! But if you take each day as part of the adventure and learn to roll with the flow, you will find that you’ll have a more rewarding experience. My Ecuador conservation program definitely wasn’t what I expected, but I still learned new skills, met amazing people, and had the adventure of a lifetime. Even though my experience wasn’t ideal, it still had a TON of value!

Understand cultural norms and the country’s history before you arrive

Investigating your host country before you arrive can help you calibrate your cultural expectations and help you mitigate culture shock that may otherwise take you by surprise. When I volunteered in Uruguay, my group met weekly and explored a different cultural theme each time we met. This really helped me mentally prepare for the journey because it was m first time outside of the country!

Engage with your community through conversation

Talking to people during your abroad volunteering program is so important. You should chat with locals, fellow volunteers, your in-country coordinator, and friends and family at home. This will help you process your experience and make you feel more secure. What’s more, sharing your experience will help your community celebrate your adventure with you! I like to do daily Instagram posts as a way to share my daily experiences with both my in country and external communities.

Practice local language even if you aren’t proficient

Even if you can’t speak properly, attempting to make conversation in local language will help you strengthen ties with your community. You’ll feel good for trying, and you will build confidence to practice more, which will allow you to get more out of your experience. You may want to learn a few key words and phrases if you are traveling to a country where you don’t know the language.

Understand that you are one person contributing energy to a big change

Volunteers may get frustrated because they don’t see change happen before their eyes during their time abroad. You must understand that when you volunteer abroad, often times you are joining a large team of people working toward a bigger change. Do not expect grand accomplishments while you are in our program, but rather remain patient and appreciate the work you’re doing.

Arrive prepared to experience the limitations of developing countries

In the western world, we are used to a certain lifestyle with ease of access and efficiency. This is not the case in developing countries. Once you understand why the country and its population functions in the way that they do and accept the fact that certain things will be out of your control while volunteering in abroad programs, you will have a much more rewarding experience.

Maintain a good attitude

This can be a huge. Witnesses the conditions of a developing country can be hard to deal with but practicing empathy and staying positive will help yourself feel better and encourage everyone around you to do the same.

Don’t lose your volunteer motivation and stay committed to your program

Unfortunately, many volunteers travel abroad with the intention of contributing to their project but get caught up in the social and travel aspects of their adventure. They decide the work is too hard or insignificant. That really hurts the surrounding community who are dependent on humanitarian resources. Staying committed to your project and seeing it through will help you feel like you have made the most of your time abroad.

Every person will have their own experience, and I hope these tips will help you remember how you can mitigate these negative feelings if you find yourself in one of these situations.

How can I stay safe while volunteering abroad?

Can you give me some tips for safety precautions I may want to use while abroad? Are developing countries dangerous?

Any time you travel, you abandon the normalcies of your daily routine. The familiar becomes foreign and laws or social norms you are used to may not apply. Because of this, it is important that you are extra-cautious and think on your toes while you participate in your abroad volunteering experience! I’ve listed a few safety tips that I always follow while abroad, starting from the pre-planning stages of your adventure:

First and foremost: Choose a safe destination

This may seem obvious, but you’re going to feel a lot more secure if you’re in a stable country. Usually volunteer organizations halt their volunteer abroad programs if the country’s situation become unsafe, but it is always a good idea to do your own research and make your own decision about where you travel. This applies to cities within your host country as well – you need to ensure that you’ll be in a safe part of town by researching exactly where your project is located and learning about the community before you make a decision.

Volunteer with an established organization

I can’t emphasize this enough! If you volunteer with an organization that has a good reputation and reliable support, in the case that something does happen you know you will have someone helping you and an immediate point of contact.

Volunteer with a friend or in a group

When you’re in a group or with a friend, you may feel stronger peace of mind. Joining a group abroad volunteer opportunity as a safe way to travel was my motivation for traveling to Uruguay. There’s no shame in not going alone.

Stay on the grid and keep connected

It may be tempting to disconnect from technology during your adventure abroad, but honestly that’s not a very safe decision. Make an effort to get a cell phone with a local number rather than just relying on Wi-Fi connections because danger waits for no one. What’s more: you need to check in with family and friends while abroad. Although you may be having the adventure of a lifetime, undoubtedly your relatives back home who understand the dangers of travel will be preoccupied with your well-being.

Rely on Support Staff

Check in with your volunteering abroad project’s support staff regularly and ask them for their best advice regarding safety while in country.

Don’t walk alone at night

You may not realize it, but you stand out as a foreigner. Walking alone at night makes you a target for thieves and other bad people. I’ve personally heard some pretty intimidating stories from fellow travelers that have always kept me from going out at night alone while volunteering abroad.

Register with your Embassy

Registering with your embassy abroad will give you immense peace of mind. This way, your home country will know that one of their citizens in inside the country should anything happen.

Keep an eye on your money and belongings

People assume everyone from the western world is wealthy. I had a dear friend from Nicaragua once make a comment about how gringos didn’t know how to cook because they hire people to cook for them. Regardless of whether you have money or not, people will perceive that you do. This makes you a target. Do not carry a lot of cash, always know where your wallet is, and do not under any circumstances leave your belongings alone. Opportunistic thieves are not uncommon.

Dress modestly

When you dress in a semi-revealing manner, foreign men may take this as a sign that you would like their attention. It can create unnecessary and unsafe situations for you.

Use alcohol in moderation

The idea of drinking Mai Tais all day on a beach in a foreign country during your abroad volunteer trip may seem romantic, but you should remember that drinking makes you vulnerable. People are watching you and may take advantage of you if you drink.

And lastly, trust your gut!

If you feel unsafe or threated, or if you sense that you’re being followed – trust your intuition. Remove yourself from that situation and stay alert!

Culture Shock: What should I Expect?

When you travel to a new country, you’re going to experience a LOT of changes! You will be immersed in a new environment, surrounded by new language and cultural norms. These sights and sensations are part of the volunteer abroad experience; however, it can leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed or without energy if you aren’t prepared.

Here are a few tips to consider that will help you minimize any negative effects culture shock may have on your while volunteering:

Research your destination before you arrive

Get a basic idea of what to experience while you’re in abroad volunteer program. Talk to others who have lived in or visited that country. Familiarize yourself with its customs, history, economic situation and laws and check out the living conditions, environment, education and health systems.

Embrace your Host Family

Your host family provides your accommodations, but they can also act as a strong support system for you. Spend time getting to know them and have conversations with them about the differences you’re experiencing! Many people are eager to learn about different cultures and lifestyles.

Pay attention to your surrounding

Observe and explore! Take it all in. Get to know residents by visiting them for tea or coffee. When you slowly digest your environment through observation and mindful interactions, you will open your mind to a different way of living.

Prioritize social connections

Living in a new environment away from what’s familiar may make you feel quite lonely or disconnected. That’s why it is so important to make friends with your fellow volunteers and keep in touch with friends and family back home. Spending time with people who speak the same language and are sharing the same experience as you help create life-balance, whether it’s inside or outside of your volunteer program abroad.

Find a language outlet

One thing I have done in the past is to listen to English music or download Netflix episodes on my phone. At the end of a long day of speaking only broken Spanish, relaxing with a little English TV or music time really helped me feel like I could reset and keep utilizing my foreign language skills the next day.

What are some issues that other volunteers have experienced?

While you volunteer abroad, issues may arise. We understand that these things happen and want to help you solve any problem that may come up. I’ve compiled a list of some of the most common volunteer complaints that I’ve heard of for you to review, some of which have even happened to me!

Lack of communication between you and your volunteer organization

The organization you volunteer with should make themselves available to support you via email, telephone, and other methods of communication. Support should come both before your departure and while you are in the country. That being said, communication is a two-way street. Please communicate with your volunteer abroad agency for any doubts, concerns, or questions you have. Many large problems can be prevented by just a little communication.

Problems with your host family or lodging accommodations

You should know how your host family was vetted and selected for you. If your volunteer organization doesn’t offer up this information upfront, ask questions to ensure you’re host family or accommodations are an appropriate placement. You may also confirm how many people live in the house, what you will have access to, and whether or not you will have your own bedroom. If you learn details you’re not comfortable with, simply let your volunteer agency know and they will work with you to find more appropriate accommodations or a different volunteering opportunity abroad.

Issues with work placement or job responsibilities

Sometimes, volunteers arrive to find that their work is not what they expected. I experienced this when I volunteered in Ecuador. To avoid this situation, you should acquire as much information as possible before committing to a project. Ask how your project was vetted, who runs the organization locally, and whether there is an on-site manager. Get in touch with someone who worked directly for the organization before leaving your country or talk to a past volunteer from the program.

There’s not enough properly managed abroad volunteer work

Some volunteers have complained that instead of being given the opportunity to work hard and utilize their skills, they spend most the day waiting for instructions or to be given work. Or, you may find that you’re in a situation where there are too many volunteers and not enough work to go around. To avoid this situation, speak to your organization about a detailed work schedule. A good volunteer organization should be able to provide you with an hour-by-hour work breakdown.

Issues with money

One of the most important things when researching a volunteer organization is to know where your money is going. Volunteers who say they spent too much money or complain that their program was too expensive for the experience they received often times did not do very good organization research. Don’t let this happen to you! Compare program costs with multiple organizations to ensure you aren’t being duped into paying high prices for half-hearted or meaningless volunteer experiences abroad.

Tips: Problems and Complaints

Most problems you encounter while volunteering abroad are normally a result of miscommunication. You should be open with in-country staff and communicate your needs to the best of your abilities. In-country staff wants more than anything for you to be happy.

It is also up to you to learn about and understand the realities and limitations of living and volunteering in a developing country prior to your travel. Although it may be hard, try to maintain expectations that are consistent with those realities and limitations. If there is a problem with the accommodation or project, you should first attempt to discuss and resolve the matter with the staff as soon as the problem arises. If there is no resolution, then please politely ask your in-country coordinator for help with the situation.

We cannot stress enough that however rewarding and memorable volunteering abroad in a third world country is, it can also be very challenging. Electricity and other modern conveniences may not always be available. In many of the host countries we work in, electricity is available only intermittently. And in some of these countries, hot water may be only intermittent or not available at all. Volunteers should determine whether they are up to the task of living with these inconveniences as part of the experience of volunteering in a third world. It is best to try and meet these frustrations with initiative ingenuity and a sense of humor.

It is important to understand that the everyday conveniences (as mentioned above) that are sometimes taken for granted in developed countries are considered luxuries in developing countries. The temporary inconvenience that you will experience is a part of everyday life for citizens of developing countries. We, therefore, ask that you approach your experience with patience and an open mind.

What are some frequently asked questions?

Just to make sure we’ve covered all of our bases, I’d like to review some final questions with you for abroad volunteer travel program. These are questions that come up for volunteer’s time and time again. Some of them have been previously addressed, and others have not.

Will other volunteers be working with me?

Other people may be working with you, or they may not. This depends mostly on the size of your volunteer organization. Volunteering abroad in the summer will give you a higher chance of working with other volunteers. You can also reach out to your project coordinator and inquire about fellow volunteer.

If I really love my project, can I stay longer?

If you are really enjoying your project and have the means to stay, you may be able to extend your time. Small and medium sized volunteer organizations are more flexible while larger organizations that have more volunteers coming and going may not allow it. You may also consider visa limitations.

What happens if I don’t like my project?

If it turns out that you really don’t like your project, depending on your organization you may be able to change your project. Smaller organizations tend to be more flexible with regards to abroad volunteer placement, whereas larger organizations may be more rigid.

What should I do if I have a problem with my project?

If you have a problem at during your day-to-day work, you should first talk to your work supervisor. If the problem is not resolved, be sure to inform the in-country coordinator. Keep in mind that as a volunteer, you may not always be watched closely by a supervisor.

How will I get from the airport to my host family/housing?

Your organization will arrange this for you, and they should give you clear directions about what to do when you arrive at the airport of your destination country. Be sure to inform your organization about your flight times and confirm where you will meet each other.

Will there be support from anyone in my host country?

Yes, in most instances in-country support is available, but it’s always best to check with your organization directly.

If I volunteer with a friend can we be placed in the same volunteer work abroad and be housed together?

In most circumstances there should be no problem with this, but it’s best to make such plans known to your volunteer organization well in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made rather than applying independently and hoping for the best.

Are meals and housing provided?

Most programs’ fees will include accommodation and 2-3 meals a day. Check with your volunteer program abroad to find out exactly what is provided.

I am a vegetarian; will that be a problem?

Host families want to look after volunteers in the best possible way, and they are usually more than happy to work around dietary requirements. It is best however to advise your organization and host family before arriving so they are aware of the situation and can prepare accordingly.

Will my host family be able to speak English?

Most host families accommodating those who are volunteering abroad will speak some basic English, however this is not guaranteed. Since you are visiting their country and living with them, it is the perfect opportunity for you to learn or practice their language too.

Can I travel to other cities during my days off?

Yes, while volunteering it is recommended that you visit and explore as many destinations as you can. You are encouraged to ask your host family and program coordinator for recommendations.

Do I have to bring my own bedding and mosquito net?

If you are placed with a host family, then bedding will be provided for you. However, if you are joining one of the programs based in areas which experience high humidity, such as coastal areas or the rainforest, then it is recommended you take a mosquito net, just in case.

Can I volunteer even if I don’t speak the language?

Generally, yes, but we recommend learning key words and phrases before you arrive if you don’t speak the native language. Some placements require volunteers to have a certain level of proficiency in the host country’s language, especially in Latin America, so be sure to check if this applies to your chosen volunteer work abroad.

How will I get to my project every day?

This depends on where your housing accommodations are located with respect to your abroad volunteer program. In many cases, volunteers can walk, but for others you may need to use public transportation. Talk to your project-coordinator about what to anticipate so arrive prepared with an idea of your daily commute.

Can I speak with a previous volunteer from my chosen project?

Many organizations are happy to share networking opportunities with people who have previously been a volunteered with them. If you are unable to contact anyone then use online volunteer reviews as a useful guide.

What kind of food will I eat while I'm there?

Staying with a host family during your volunteer trip abroad probably means you will get to experience traditional dishes. These vary between regions, so once you know where you’ll be placed it’s easy to research local specialties and diet.

How many hours per day will I be work?

Daily schedules vary from placement to placement, but the average is usually between 4 - 6 hours. Some projects may involve working early morning or late nights, so be sure to check what is expected of you with your volunteer organization.

Do you still have some questions? That’s A-OK. Reach out to us via email and we will respond as soon as we can to help you understand more about volunteering abroad program details.

Closing with a few final words

Volunteering requires continuous flexibility, a strong sense of motivation, and a lot of patience. Choosing to volunteer internationally in a developing country is not a decision you should make lightly, nor should you travel with the intention to “teach western ways” or “rescue” people. You should partake in international volunteer abroad opportunities so that you may share your energy with people in need, experience another culture firsthand, and help yourself grow. Be ready to live like the Romans and roll with the flow as you will need to be able to cope with unexpected, local customs, environmental differences, and shortage of resources.

Final tips for a good experience:

• Travel with a positive attitude and a will to learn. Treat people with love and respect.
• Accept that there are many limitations in developing countries that are beyond our control.
• Volunteer abroad programs are not luxurious. They offer you basic services.
• Volunteering is by nature service oriented. If you are choosing the abroad volunteer program as a cheap travel option, you may be disappointed as this is not a typical tourist trip.
• Volunteering is always helpful to the local community – however, you cannot always see immediate results that clearly show how you’re making difference in the world. Don’t worry if you don’t see an immediate outcome – just accept that you have contributed your time, passion, and energy for a good cause.
• If you run into any problems, please let our coordinator know immediately. They are there to help you, let them give you advice and assistance.

I certainly hope that you have found this guide helpful. Don’t hesitate to reach out with more questions or ask for information on any of the programs mentioned in this guide.

Thanks for reading and feel free to share. Happy volunteering!