Popular Gap year destinations & travel routes
Some links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you purchase something through my links I may make a small commission at no extra charge to you. See my disclaimer.
What are some of the most popular gap year destinations? There are thousands of travel routes around the world, but some are visited by many more travellers. When considering the places you’d like to see on a long-term trip, there are multiple factors you will need to think about to see if a travel route ticks all of your boxes.
Generally speaking, many people who take a gap year are young 18 to 20-somethings heading out on a journey between their university studies and the start of their career. But believe it or not, they are not the only age group going on gap years.
However, not everyone travels in the same way or to the same places. Some people want relaxation on a budget, while others care less about the financial aspect and more about how to get their adrenaline pumping. This is also why it’s always worth exploring your ideas for a gap year to see what you want to get from your dream trip.
If you know what you want out of it, it makes it easier to find the right destination to meet those needs.
Since going on multiple of these long trips myself, I set out to research the most common travel routes and destinations for gap year travellers and will lay them out for you today.
Don’t forget to get travel insurance to cover you if something bad happens. One company I have personal experience with is Safety Wing. Not everyone needs the same coverage, so make sure you get a personalised quote that suits you and your trip plans.
Don’t forget to exchange your money before your trip using Wise. They have great rates and make transferring foreign funds easy!
Plus, make sure you stay connected online with an Airalo eSIM. You can choose the number of days you require, the region or countries you need coverage for and download it straight to your phone. This saves so much time, so you don’t have to go and collect a physical card.
Australia
or all other Australian content: Australia Working Holiday Hub
Australia is consistently top of the most popular gap year destinations for UK travellers, especially due to the high wages, simple online visa process, and a vibrant backpacker network. It’s one of the few places where you could realistically arrive with the minimum visa requirement savings, and still support yourself through casual and temporary work.
Most travellers head straight to the East Coast, which is set up as a solid backpacker trail, filled with reliable transport, hostels, and job opportunities. Even though it is no longer a requirement for British passport holders, farm work is still regularly sought out for the unique experience and low living costs in rural areas (other nationalities still require farm work to extend their visa).
Beyond work, Australia offers a balance of city life, beaches, and nature, making it one of the easiest countries to settle into long-term. Even if you went to a new beach every day, it would still take you between 27 – 32 years!
Best for: Earning money + social backpacking
Typical travel route: Melbourne – Sydney – Byron Bay – Gold Coast – Brisbane – Cairns
Additional destinations:
- Darwin (Northern Territory)
- Uluru (Northern Territory)
- Adelaide (South Australia)
- Perth (Western Australia)
- Tasmania (Tasmania)
Click here to see how to apply for the Australian working holiday visa.
| Country: | Australia |
| Currency: | Australian Dollar / AUD / $AUD |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Most popular route: The east coast trail
Typically speaking, this route travels between Cairns and Melbourne in either direction as they are located to the north and south of the east coast.
Since you’re travelling in one continuous direction, it’s extremely easy to hit all the stop-off points along the way. You can cram this journey into just two weeks, just as easily as you can slow down and cover the route over a few months. Although many people opt to do a self-drive by renting a car or campervan, you also have the option to use the Greyhound service to meet fellow travellers.
Trip highlights
| Location | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| Queensland | – Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation – Spend time in Cairns – The Great Barrier Reef – The Whitsundays & Fraser Island – Visit Brisbane & Surfers Paradise |
| New South Wales | – Byron Bay – Share Pebbly Beach with Kangaroos – Visit Sydney & the city’s sights – Hike in the Blue Mountains |
| Victoria | – The Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles – Melbourne city living – St Kilda Beach (expat central) |
New Zealand
For all other New Zealand content: New Zealand Working Holiday Hub
The official home of The Lord of the Rings (you can go on a LOTR self-drive here) and the backdrop to countless other movie franchises. New Zealand is another one of our highly popular gap year destinations, and it has an easy working holiday visa process online. With a slow-paced and more relaxed way of life (and a less commercialised version of Australia), it’s especially popular with first-time travellers. The stunning mountain range on the South Island is one to rival the Canadian Rockies – on a smaller scale but equally as beautiful.
New Zealand is a popular place to spend a gap year due to its safety, friendly locals and manageable size. Many travellers buy or rent vehicles and complete the “New Zealand loop”, which takes them on a loop around both islands, combining road trip exploration with short-term casual work. Jobs are available in agriculture, tourism, and hospitality, although wages are lower than in Australia, yet comparable to those in Canada.
Best for: Road trips and first-time solo travel
Typical travel route: Auckland – Rotorua – Wellington – Queenstown – Christchurch
Additional destinations:
- Matamata (Waikato Region)
- Coromandel (Waikato Region)
- Tauranga (Bay of Plenty Region)
- Nelson (Nelson-Tasman Region)
- Wanaka (Otago Region)
- Akaroa (Canterbury Region)
- Mt Cook (Canterbury Region)
Click here to see how to apply for the New Zealand working holiday visa.
| Country: | New Zealand |
| Currency: | New Zealand Dollar / NZD / $NZD |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Most popular route: North to south (both islands)
Trip Highlights
| Location | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| Auckland & Waikato | – City life in Auckland – Visit Hobbiton in Matamata – Glowworm cave adventures in Waitomo – Hike the pinnacles in Coromandel – Visit Hot Water Beach & Cathedral Cove – Enjoy the continents’ super volcano in Taupo |
| Bay of Plenty & Taranaki | – Hike the Pouakai trail in Taranaki for sunrise – See Volcanic activity at Wai-o-tapu, Rotorua – Walk Mt Maunganui & beaches in Tauranga |
| Wellington | – Visit New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington |
| Nelson & Marlborough | – Nelson Lakes & Nelson – Abel Tasman National Park |
| Canterbury | – Sealife & watersports in Kaikoura – Mountains and lupins near Lake Tekapo – Christchurch – Akaroa wildlife tours & alpaca farm visit |
| West Coast | – Fox Glacier & Franz Josef Glacier |
| Otago & Southland | – Wine tastings in Wanaka – Adrenaline sports in Queenstown – Hikes such as Bob’s cove, Queenstown Hill – Visit Te Anau the gateway to Fiordland |
Canada
For all other Canadian content: Canada Working Holiday Hub
Canada attracts travellers looking for a more outdoors-focused gap year, with opportunities centred around seasonal work (especially in winter). Canada is filled with ski resorts throughout the Rocky Mountains, dominated by ski resort jobs in places like Whistler, Banff and Jasper, while the summer months open up roles in their stunning national parks, camps and cities.
Unlike Australia, the visa process is quite competitive due to being a quota-based lottery, so planning ahead of time is essential. However, those who are lucky enough to secure a visa find that Canada offers a high quality of life, good wages, and a strong community of international workers.
Travel distances are large, so many people base themselves in one place and travel from there for short trips, rather than staying on the move constantly.
Best for: seasonal work and the outdoor lifestyle
Typical travel route: Toronto – Banff – Vancouver – Whistler
Additional destinations:
- Calgary (Alberta)
- Winnipeg (Manitoba)
- Ottawa (Ontario)
- Montreal (Quebec)
- Fredericton (New Brunswick)
- Halifax (Nova Scotia)
- Yellowknife (Northern Territory)
- Whitehorse (Yukon)
Click here to see how to apply for the Canada working holiday visa.
Less specific routes as most travellers base themselves in Vancouver or Toronto during summer, then in the Ski resorts during winter (travelling to other places for short trips)
| Country: | Canada |
| Currency: | Canadian Dollar / CAD / $CAD |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
| Location | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| British Columbia | – Vancouver – Visiting Whistler Mountain Resort – Filming locations for “Once upon a time” – Vancouver Island and Virgin Falls |
| Alberta | – Skiing in the Rockies – Hiking in Canmore – Calgary & the rodeos |
| Manitoba | – See polar bears in Churchill – Experience a harsh winter in Winnipeg |
| Ontario | – Visit the nation’s busiest city, Toronto – Ottawa, the capital city – See moose in Algonquin Park |
| Quebec | – Have French lessons – Visit Canada’s European city, Montreal |
| New Brunswick | – World’s highest tides – Drive the Fundy Trail Parkway – Explore the coastal sea caves |
| Nova Scotia | – Stroll through Halifax |
| Newfoundland | – Watch icebergs pass by – See where the Irish settlers moved to |
| Yukon | – See the Northern lights in Whitehorse |
| Northwest Territories | – Enjoy snow sports in Yellowknife – Learn about Indigenous cultures |
Japan
For all other Japan content: Japan Working Holiday Hub
Japan is the ideal choice for those who want something culturally different from the typical gap year experience. While it’s not as cheap or aimed at backpackers as Southeast Asia and Australia, opportunities exist in teaching English, hospitality, and ski resorts in places like Hokkaido. The cultural experiences throughout Japan are truly immersive.
It’s more structured and less of a party-focused environment, like some other destinations. This makes it a good fit if you’re looking for personal growth alongside travel. Costs may be higher upfront, but daily life can be more affordable depending on location. The visa is a little more complicated; it must be applied for in-person through an online booking system, and it only takes around 1 week to hear back!
Best for: Cultural immersion and structured experience
Typical travel route: Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka – Sapporo (seasonal work)
Additional destinations:
- Okinawa (Okinawa)
- Fukuoka (Fukuoka)
- Nara (Nara)
- Mt Fuji (Shizuoka and Yamanashi)
- Hakuba (Nagano)
- Hiroshima (Hiroshima)
- Nagasaki (Nagasaki)
Click here to see how to apply for the Japan working holiday visa.
Less specific travel routes. Many gap year travellers base themselves in Tokyo or Osaka, moving to Okinawa in Summer and Saporro or Hakuba for Winter.
| Location | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| Tokyo | – Be a kid at Disneyland |
| Osaka | – Enjoy Universal Studios – Visit Dotonburi canal street |
| Kyoto | – Participate in tea ceremonies – Make matcha desserts – Experience “traditional” Japan |
| Sapporo | – See the snow festival in winter |
| Hakuba | – Ski and snowboard |
| Mt Fuji | – Hike Japan’s largest volcano |
| Fukuoka | – Experience the food capital of Japan – Test out the nightlife |
| Hiroshima | – Here you can learn about the atomic bomb and WW2 history |
| Nagasaki | – Another historical city with a dark past |
| Okinawa | – Enjoy summertime water sports – Watch whales by boat and when snorkelling – Explore historical Ryukyu Kingdom castles – Relax in the Keramas Islands – Visit the many islands of Okinawa |
| Country: | Japan |
| Currency: | Japanese Yen / JPY / ยฅ |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourists? | Check here |
South Korea
For all other South Korean content: South Korea Working Holiday Hub
Previously not a common gap year destination, South Korea has grown significantly in popularity in the past few years, primarily among travellers interested in language learning or teaching. With some of the world’s best beauty and skin care, a hugely popular K-media industry of music and television, the country has something for everyone.
Seoul offers plenty of part-time work opportunities, and many combine their stay with Korean language study. It’s less of a traditional backpacking route and more city-focused, and many visitors use the working holiday visa as a stepping stone to transition to teaching visas and longer stays. The visa requires much to be done in person (by mail since COVID), but it is much less competitive to obtain than the Canadian visa.
Best for: City life and culture
Typical travel route: Seoul – Busan – Jeju Island
Additional destinations:
- DMZ
- Daegu (Gyeongsangbuk-do)
- Gwangju (Jeollanam-do)
- Jirisan National Park (Gyeongsangnam-do, Jeollabuk-do, and Jeollanam-do)
- Seoraksan National Park (Gangwon-do)
Click here to see how to apply for the South Korea working holiday visa.
No typical backpacker route. Most gap year makers live in Busan or Seoul, and visit elsewhere on short trips.
| Location | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| Seoul | – Visit top BTS attractions – Hike through Bukhansan Park – Shop and experience the lifestyle in Gangnam – Party in Itaewon |
| Busan & Jinhae | – Visit the Gamcheon Culture Village – Travel to Jinhae for the cherry blossom festival |
| DMZ | – Take a tour of the world-famous DMZ – Learn about the Korean War history at the border |
| Jeju Island | – See the Spring cherry blossoms in Jeju City – Relax on the stunning beaches – Climb Hallasan Mountain (Gwaneumsa trail or Seungpanak trail) |
| Seoraksan National Park | – Hike one of the top 3 tallest mountains in Korea |
| Jirisan National Park | – Explore the forest and hiking trails – Visit the famous K-Drama filming location |
| Country: | South Korea (Republic of Korea) |
| Currency: | South Korean Won / KRW / โฉ |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Taiwan
Taiwan is one of the most underrated destinations for British citizens looking for a gap year, but it is slowly becoming more popular. It combines affordability with a high quality of life, making it a practical choice for anyone who wants to balance work and travel. It’s much less crowded than neighbouring countries like South Korea and Japan, which is surprising considering how small the island is.
Jobs in Taiwan are much less structured for working holiday makers than in countries like Canada and New Zealand, so some travellers may be more reliant on savings initially. However, the lower cost of living and ease of getting around the country make it a really strong option for independent travellers. Taiwan has metropolitan cities sitting on the edge of some breathtaking national parks and natural landscapes, perfect to add a bit of variety to your day-to-day life.
Best for: Budget and a hidden gem destination
Typical travel route: Taipei – Taroko Gorge – Kaohsiung
Additional destinations:
- Taichung City (Central Taiwan)
- Yushan National Park (Nantou County, Chiayi County, Kaohsiung City, and Hualien County)
- Kenting National Park (Pingtung County)
| Country: | Taiwan |
| Currency: | New Taiwanese Dollar / NTD / NT$ |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Most gap year makers stay in Taipei or Kaohsiung and make regular trips elsewhere.
| Locations | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| Taipei | – Explore beautiful temples in Taipei – Watch sunset at Bishanyang Temple – Stroll through street markets – Enjoy the lantern festival |
| Tainan City | – Put on a helmet and experience the fireworks festival |
| Kaohsiung | – Take a break by Lotus Lake – Take a ferry and enjoy beaches |
| Taichung City | – Take a food tour in Taichung – Walk through night markets |
| Yushan National Park | – Explore the stunning landscapes – Go camping and hiking through park trails |
| Kenting National Park | – Take a break by Lotus Lake – Take a ferry and enjoy the beaches |
| Kinmen Island | – Learn about the previous military presence – Find a sunken army tank in the sand |
Most Popular Gap Year destinations: Tourist travel
Southeast Asia
Specifically, the “Banana Pancake Trail” consists of Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos
Southeast Asia is home to some hugely popular destinations for travellers on a gap year. Although working holiday visas here are not possible for many countries, they’re often a highlight for travellers wanting to see multiple countries at once.
If you are travelling from a Western country, the entire region of Southeast Asia is easily affordable for low-budget visitors who want to enjoy new cultures. This makes it easy to travel around the four “hub countries” without breaking the bank!
This route covers everything from bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh and Bangkok, to quiet and calm countryside like Mai Chau and Nong Khaiw. With adventure-filled activities and endless opportunities to learn about history, this route caters to every type of traveller.
Thailand
Thailand is often the starting point for many first-time gap year travellers and has remained a popular backpacker hub. It’s affordable, easy to travel around, and has a well-developed backpacker scene with social hostels and organised tours.
From island hopping in the south to culturally bustling cities in the north, Thailand offers a bit of everything for everyone.
Best for: first-time travellers and social atmosphere
Typical travel route: Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Island (Koh Phangan/Koh Tao)
Additional destinations:
- Pai (Mae Hong Son Province)
- Chiang Rai (Chiang Rai Province)
- Phuket (Phuket Province)
- Pattaya (Chonburi Province)
- Koh Phi Phi (Krabi Province)
| Country: | Thailand |
| Currency: | Thai Baht / THB / เธฟ |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Cambodia
Cambodia is often paired with Thailand, but it offers a significantly slower and more relaxed pace of life. It’s less developed, more raw, and gives a deeper insight into Southeast Asia’s history, particularly through UNESCO heritage sites like Angkor Wat and the reminders of the Khmer Rouge era in Phnom Penh.
While many visitors to Cambodia initially visit for a few days, it’s definitely worth maxing out your visa allowance and truly utilising the slow travel experience here. Places like Kampot and Kep offer a chilled-out small-town feel, while the islands of Koh Rong offer a quiet alternative to Thailand’s party scene.
Travel is cheap, but infrastructure can be basic in places, which is something to be prepared for. That said, it’s exactly what makes Cambodia one of my favourite countries and makes the nation feel more authentic and less commercialised.
Best for: History, slow travel and authentic experiences
Typical travel route: Siem Reap – Phnom Penh – Kampot – Koh Rong
Additional destinations:
- Kep (Kep Province)
- Battambang (Battambang Province)
- Kratie (Kratie Province)
- Cardamom Mountains (Koh Kong Province)
- Ratanakiri (Ratanakiri Province)
| Country: | Cambodia |
| Currency: | Cambodian Riel / KHR / KHR |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here. |
Vietnam
Vietnam is often thought of as one of the most rewarding destinations for gap year travellers, offering popular experiences from north to south, different cultures and a huge variety of landscapes. It’s well known for the iconic motorbike and scooter route where visitors ride between cities in the north of the country over a few weeks.
The north is known for dramatic scenery like Ha Long Bay and the mountainous region surrounding Sa Pa, while central Vietnam offers the world’s largest cave (with its own eco-system!) and Hoi An, whereas the south brings a faster way of life in the busy Ho Chi Minh City.
Vietnamese food is a major highlight for most visitors, with the cuisine being rated as some of the best in the region. It’s a country that’s very easy to travel around, although distances are long, so bring a good book!
Best for: Variety travel and long-distance travel experiences
Typical travel route: Hanoi – Sa Pa – Ha Long Bay – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City
Additional destinations:
- Mai Chau (Hoa Binh Province)
- Ninh Binh (Ninh Binh Province)
- Dong Hoi City (Quang Binh Province)
- Hue (Thแปซa Thiรชn Huแบฟ Province)
- Da Lat (Lรขm ฤแปng Province)
- Da Nang (Da Nang Province)
- Mui Ne (Bรฌnh Thuแบญn Province)
| Country: | Vietnam |
| Currency: | Vietnamese Dong / VND / โซ |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Laos
Laos is by far the most laid-back country on this list and is often described as what Southeast Asia was truly like before mass tourism. It doesn’t have the same level of infrastructure or nightlife as Thailand or Vietnam, but that’s what many people love about it,
If you enjoy the slow pace of life, then this is the country for you, with a focus on nature and small towns. Luang Prabang is popular to visit for the ancient temples, waterfalls, and French colonial architecture, while Vang Vieng has shifted from its old party reputation into more of an adventure hub with water sports, hiking and hot air balloon rides.
Laos works best as part of a larger Southeast Asia itinerary rather than a standalone destination, particularly for those looking to break up faster-paced travel elsewhere.
Best for: slow travel, relaxation and nature
Typical travel route: Luang Prabang – Vang Vieng – Vientiane
Additional destinations:
- Nong Khiaw (Luang Prabang Province)
- Si Phan Don (Champasak Province)
| Country: | Laos |
| Currency: | Laotian Kip / LAK / LAK, โญ, โญN |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Most popular route: The banana pancake trail
The banana pancake trail covers Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia in a loop, in either direction. The most cost-effective way to do this route is using overland transport, which you can book through 12Go.Asia.
Some people choose to extend this trip by including India, China and Myanmar (Burma) as well as Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, but the vast majority of travellers stick to the central 4.
Trip highlights
| Location | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| Thailand | – Khao San Road in Bangkok – Koh Pha-ngan full moon party – Koh Samui & Ko Lanta beach life – Chiang Mai city life and ruins – Elephant sanctuary volunteering in Chiang Mai – Pai relaxing village |
| Laos | – Slow boat down the Mekong River – River tubing in Vang Vieng – Hiking and village life in Nong Khiaw |
| Vietnam | – Boat tours in Halong Bay – Hiking in Sa Pa & Mai Chau – Ho Chi Minh museums and city life – Ninh Binh & Phong Nha – Sand dunes & Fairy stream landscape Mui Ne |
| Cambodia | – Ancient temple Angkor Wat in Siem Reap – Bamboo train in Battambang – Kayaking the green cathedral in Kampot |
United States of America
The United States is known as the “land of the free”, and there is so much variety in this vast country. It’s a place many travellers visit to take part in a road trip, and there really is something for everyone here. They have huge powerhouse cities like New York and Los Angeles, as well as stunning beaches along their coastlines in California and Florida.
Whether you’re here to join a road trip down the famous Route 66 or hit the musical states, there really is so much opportunity for a unique and enjoyable gap year experience. The USA has some world-renowned cities and stunning hiking trails that you’d be a fool not to take an extended trip here and enjoy your gap year travelling coast to coast.
Most popular destinations: From Coast to Coast
Trip highlights:
| Location | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| North East & East Coast | – Explore New York City – See the USA’s capital in Washington DC |
| South | – Party and see the beaches in Miami – Live music in Memphis & Atlanta – Eat cajun food in New Orleans – Visit Dallas & Houston |
| Midwest | – Explore Chicago – Spend some time in the Rockies near Denver – Explore Yellowstone National Park |
| West & West Coast | – Pink salt lake in Utah plus the Spiral Jetty – Surf & see Hollywood in Los Angeles – City sights in San Francisco – Enjoy the San Diego beaches – Explore Yosemite |
Central America
Specifically, the northern section of the “Gringo Trail” consists of Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.
Please check this link to see if you require specific visas for your countries of choice.
Mexico
Usually, the starting point in Central America is some highly popular destinations that gap year backpackers like to visit in Mexico. It offers a mix of culture, beaches, amazing food and multiple historical sites. It’s one of the more developed countries in the region, making it a relatively easy introduction before heading further south in the region.
From the beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula to colonial cities and ancient Mayan ruins, Mexico provides a wide variety of experiences. It can be slightly more expensive than other countries in Central America, particularly in the tourist-heavy hotspots, but it still offers great value overall.
Best for: Culture, food and varied travel experiences
Typical travel route: Cancun – Tulum – Bacalar – Palenque
Additional destinations:
- Oaxaca (Oaxaca State)
- Puerto Escondido (Oaxaca State)
- Mexico City (CDMX)
- San Cristรณbal de las Casas (Chiapas)
| Country: | Mexico |
| Currency: | Mexican Peso / MXN / MX$, Mex$ |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Guatemala
Guatemala is often a highlight in Central America (it’s even up there as one of my top 5 countries ever visited!), known for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It’s particularly popular for Lake Atitlan, surrounded by volcanoes and small villages, as well as the beautiful colonial city of Antigua.
The country offers a strong balance between affordability and experience, with lots of opportunities for hiking, cultural immersion, and language learning. Many travellers also use Guatemala as a base for Spanish schools.
Transport here can be less predictable than in Southeast Asia (especially with the famous chicken buses), but the well-travelled backpacker route makes it manageable.
Best for: Culture, volcano hikes and scenic landscapes
Typical travel route: Flores – Antigua – Lake Atitlan
Additional destinations:
- Guatemala City (Guatemala Department)
- Semuc Champey (Alta Verapaz)
- Quetzaltenango / Xela (Quetzaltenango Department)
- Rio Dulce (Izabal Department)
| Country: | Guatemala |
| Currency: | Guatemalan Quetzal / GTQ / GTQ |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Belize
Belize offers a slightly different experience compared to the rest of Central America due to having a much stronger Caribbean influence and English as the official language, making it one of the easiest countries in the region for UK travellers to navigate.
It’s best known for its world-class diving and snorkelling, particularly along the Belize Barrier Reef, as well as its laid-back island lifestyle. Destinations like Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye are popular for those looking to relax, while inland areas offer jungle adventures and Mayan ruins.
Belize is generally more expensive than neighbouring countries like Guatemala and Nicaragua, so many backpackers visit for shorter periods or as part of a wider route instead of staying long-term.
Best for: Island life, snorkelling/diving and easy travel
Typical travel route: Belize City – Ambergris Caye – Caye Caulker – San Ignacio
Additional destinations:
- Placencia (Stann Creek District)
- Hopkins (Stann Creek District)
| Country: | Belize |
| Currency: | Belizean Dollar / BZD / BZ$ |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Nicaragua
Nicaragua is often described as one of the most underrated destinations in all of Central America. It’s cheaper than neighbouring Costa Rica and offers a mix of colonial cities, volcanoes, and great beaches for surfing. Granada and Leรณn are the two main cities visited by travellers, while places like San Juan del Sur attract surfers and backpackers looking for a more social atmosphere. Volcano boarding near Leรณn is one of the more unique experiences in the region.
Although tourism is growing, Nicaragua still feels less commercialised than many other destinations.
Best for: Budget travel, adventure and surfing
Typical travel route: Leรณn – Granada – Ometepe Island – San Juan del Sur
Additional destinations:
- Cerro Negro (Leรณn Department)
- Isla de Ometepe (Lake Nicaragua)
- Apoyo Lagoon (Masaya Department)
| Country: | Nicaragua |
| Currency: | Nicaraguan cรณrdoba / NIO / C$ |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the most popular destinations for gap year travellers in the region, and it’s also the most expensive. With stunning nature and an abundance of unique wildlife, it is home to many national parks, rainforests, and eco-tourism, with activities like zip-lining, hiking, and surfing.
However, due to the difference in costs compared to neighbouring countries, it can come as a surprise to many travellers, so it’s advised to really plan ahead of time. Despite this, it’s often considered one of the safest and easiest countries to travel in Central America.
Many travellers use Costa Rica as a place to slow down and enjoy nature after travelling through more budget-focused destinations.
Best for: Wildlife, nature and eco-adventure
Typical travel route: San Jose – La Fortuna – Monteverde – Pacific Coast
Additional destinations:
- Tamarindo (Guanacaste Province)
- Santa Teresa (Puntarenas Province)
- Corcovado National Park (Osa Peninsula)
| Country: | Costa Rica |
| Currency: | Costa Rican colรณn / CRC / โก |
| Do you need a visa to visit as a tourist? | Check here |
Central America was overlooked by young travellers for many years, but has recently started being recognised again. What makes this region perfect for a gap year is how easily connected everything is and how you only really need to know one language to get by – Spanish!
This is an exciting trail that takes you through ancient Mayan civilisations, across stunning Caribbean and Pacific beaches, all while making the most of the amazing food that sweeps the region.
In this part of the world, there is almost every summer landscape imaginable, from stunning hiking trails up volcanoes and through valleys. As well as lots of history from the Mayan and colonial periods throughout the ages.
This is an easy area to travel to if you are on a budget, due to being much cheaper than your typical Western countries, like the USA and the United Kingdom. You’re guaranteed an amazing time!
Top Tip: Unlike Southeast Asia, where each country speaks a different language, most of the Central American region speaks Spanish or English.
Most popular route: The Gringo Trail
This route travels in either direction between Mexico and Panama. The route covers Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. Many people also choose to include El Salvador in this trail since it’s along the way anyway!
For the more adventurous backpackers or those with a lot more time to spare, you can even continue the Gringo Trail down from Panama to South America to the mountain range of Patagonia.
The most cost-effective way to complete this journey is via overground transport. This can be anything from a self-drive. those famous chicken buses or small mopeds – depending on how brave you are!
Trip Highlights
| Location | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| Mexico | – Explore Mexico City – Party in Cancun & Yucatan – Ancient ruins of Chichen Itza |
| Belize | – Chicken drop & crab racing in San Pedro – Snorkelling & diving in shark & ray alley – Caye Caulker island living – Explore the Belize barrier reef – Dive or fly over the blue hole |
| Guatemala | – Historical city sights in Antigua – Visit Hobbitenango & the valley – Hike Acatenango, Pacaya & Fuego volcanoes – Lake Atitlan – Tikal Mayan ruins |
| Hondorus | – Diving and PADI cert in Utila – Explore the Bay Islands |
| Nicaragua | – Surf on the Pacific Coast – Enjoy parties & history in Granada & Leon – Climb volcanoes Masaya, Mombacho & more |
| Costa Rica | – Cloud forest near Monteverde – Visit a centre for rescued sloths – Visit Tamarindo – Surf in Playa Jaco |
| Panama | – Diving in Bocas del Toro |
Mainland Europe
Mainland Europe is one of the easiest and most accessible gap year options for UK travellers, especially for shorter trips. With well-connected train networks, interrailing is the most common mode of transport, which allows you to explore multiple countries in a single journey without the need for flights.
From historic cities to alpine landscapes and coastal towns, Europe offers a huge variety within relatively short travel distances. However, it’s important to plan carefully as Western Europe can be expensive, while Eastern Europe offers more budget-friendly alternatives.
Since Brexit, UK travellers are limited to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Zone, which makes this option better suited to shorter gap years or as part of a longer global trip.
Best for: Short-term travel, culture, and flexibility
Typical travel route: Paris – Interlaken – Rome – Munich – Amsterdam
Additional destinations:
- Barcelona (Spain)
- Prague (Czech Republic)
- Budapest (Hungary)
- Vienna (Austria)
- Lisbon (Portugal)
- Krakรณw (Poland)
For those who have an EU citizenship (I am a dual national with Ireland, for example), you have no limit on how long you can spend in the Schengen Zone.
Please note: Since Brexit was finalised, some EU countries have opted to create independent working holiday visas for British citizens, so depending on if you want to visit one specific country or a whole host, please check the small print of each visa.
There are so many vastly different cultures and cuisines in a relatively small place (since Europe is a similar size to just the USA), this is a prime choice for those travellers who want a little bit of everything in one trip!
Most popular destinations: West to Eastern Europe
There is usually a significant price shift between the Western countries of Europe and the Eastern countries. This is why when people are travelling across the whole continent, they generally start in the west and gradually travel east.
This is beneficial if you’re travelling for a long time, as it can be hard to stick to a budget over a longer period of time. If you start off in the more expensive places and finish where everything costs a lot less, it’ll be easier to make your money stretch (although you will still need to maintain a sensible attitude towards your spending).
Plus, if you were to start where a beer costs just 1 Euro and then finish where everything is 5-7 Euros, you’re going to be in for a shock.
Trip highlights:
| Location | Destination Highlights |
|---|---|
| Spain | – Explore the busy city of Madrid – City and coast in Barcelona |
| France | – Eat French cuisine – Louvre & Moulin’ Rouge in Paris |
| United Kingdom | – Head to London for a royal tour |
| Netherlands | – Party in Amsterdam |
| Germany | – Learn about the history – Enjoy lively nightlife in Berlin |
| Italy | – Experience the wine in Italy – Ancient ruins in Rome |
| Austria | – Hiking in the mountains – Shopping in Vienna |
| Czechia | – Beer tastings – Historical architecture in Prague |
| Poland | – Try polish street food – Lots of history in Warsaw |
| Hungary | – City life in Budapest |
| Romania | – Try Polish street food – Lots of history in Warsaw |
How To Choose The Right Gap Year Destination
- Want to earn money abroad? – Australia, Canada and New Zealand
- Want cheap backpacking? – Southeast Asia
- Want adventure and something different? – Central America
- Want short and flexible travel? – Europe
- Want culture, city life and a more structured experience? – Japan, South Korea and Taiwan
Need help planning your own gap year?
Check out: How to plan a trip abroad for the first time
Whenever you are looking into travelling to a new country, you should always check if you need a visa to enter. When travelling on a British passport, many places allow us Brits to travel visa-free as a tourist for up to 30 days or, in some cases, up to 90! If you need to check on the entry requirements, you can do so on these two sites:
If you’re planning on heading out on a work permit or working holiday instead, check out what countries Brits can get a work visa or different nationalities if you’re not British.
Don’t Overlook These Essentials
Planning your gap year destination is only the first step; Making sure you’re properly prepared can save you time and money later on.
Travel Insurance
One of the biggest mistakes travellers make is skipping travel insurance or choosing the cheapest options without checking what’s actually covered. If your plans change unexpectedly, good insurance can protect you against cancelled flights, lost bookings, or medical emergencies while abroad. If not prepared, these things can quickly become extremely expensive without cover.
Depending on the destination I visit (and the length of the trip) I swap between Safety Wing and True Traveller.
- True Traveller have a great policy for Canada’s 2-year IEC minimum requirement.
- Safety Wing is who I used throughout my time in Japan (I even got treatment for a broken foot and a torn tendon during that time!)
eSIM
It’s also worth thinking about staying connected throughout your travels. Instead of relying solely on expensive roaming charges for data or looking for wifi everywhere, it’s often worth getting an eSIM with Airalo for each destination, which can be downloaded directly onto your phone for ease of use. This makes it so much easier to navigate, book transport, and stay in touch throughout your trip.
I personally never travel without these two things now, and it has made my travel experience so much better and with less risk.
For flights or long-distance transport, I will always check on a price comparison site in the first instance, such as Expedia or Booking.com. Once the ideal flight path and times have been found, I try to find the exact flight on the airline’s website directly.
For accommodation, I always recommend either HostelWorld for hostels and social accommodation or Booking.com due to having the world’s largest collection of other property types.
Summary of popular gap year destinations
The beauty of a gap year is that you can choose any destination that you’re interested in and make it your own dream trip. Although this list above covers just some of the most popular routes, they are not the only routes people take.
Depending on your age, interests and goals, the trip will depend on which places and destinations are the most suited to your gap year plans.
Want to know what to expect in a gap year?
- When might you take a grown-up gap year?
- Honest disadvantages of a gap year
- Gap year advantages: 12 reasons why you should go
Need help planning your trip?
Check out how to plan a trip abroad & see my travel resources for more.
Skyscanner – A comprehensive comparison website showing where to purchase flights.
HostelWorld – The biggest selection of hostels & sociable accommodations.
Booking.com – The largest collection of accommodations AND flights worldwide.
Safety Wing – A travel insurance brand for long-term travellers and nomads.
Airalo – An eSIM card company that lets you stay connected during your trip.
Wise – Perfect for transferring foreign currencies.
iVisa – For applying for tourist and visitor visas.
Viator – Great for finding tours and activities worldwide.
Get Your Guide – Another company for finding activities.
Klook – Have some of the best activity deals in Asia.
Need help planning your trip?
Check out how to plan a trip abroad & see my travel resources for more.
Skyscanner – A comprehensive comparison website showing where to purchase flights.
HostelWorld – The biggest selection of hostels & sociable accommodations.
Booking.com – The largest collection of accommodations AND flights worldwide.
Safety Wing – A travel insurance brand for long-term travellers and nomads.
Airalo – An eSIM card company that lets you stay connected during your trip.
Wise – Perfect for transferring foreign currencies.
iVisa – For applying for tourist and visitor visas.
Viator – Great for finding tours and activities worldwide.
Get Your Guide – Another company for finding activities.
Klook – Have some of the best activity deals in Asia.
