There are so many countries you could travel on a gap year, but where are the most popular places to go?
From exploring cities, going in search of the most exotic island or finding the most beautiful beaches in the world – you can find amazing locations all around the world to suit all types of travellers.
View our guide to the best destinations to add to your travel itinerary.
How to Decide Where to Go
Where you go on a gap year really depends on your preference but there are certain things which will help make your decision easier.
You will need to work out how much time you have, what budget you have available, what you would like to do and also do you want to go out of your comfort zone.
Also would you prefer to book a program and stay just in one country, or are you keen to tick multiple countries of your bucket list on the same trip.
Top 10 Gap Year Destinations in the World
Some of the most popular backpacking destinations include:
1. Australia
Australia has amazing weather, modern cities, beautiful beaches, islands, friendly English speaking natives and also a high quality of living. It is easy to see why this country is usually the first destination a lot of gappers want to go to. Working holidays Down Under are very popular and thousands of internationals work in cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Perth every year. View our guide to taking a gap year in Australia.
2. New Zealand
New Zealand is an adventure thrill seekers dream with spectacular scenery and awesome activities. This country is one of the most scenic in the world and both the north and south islands will blow you away. Highlights include spending time in Queenstown – the adventure capital of the world where you can skydive, bungee, abseil, ski and more.
3. Canada
If you love the outdoors and are keen to go skiing or snowboarding, you will fall in love with Canada. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal are great places to explore and there are lots of jobs and working holidays available. Winter ski jobs are really popular where you can live and work in places like the stunning Rockies.
4. USA
The United States offers so much to travellers, you can go see amazing cities like Chicago, New York, Miami and LA or be more than just a tourist by working here, there are so many trips available all year round. Popular options applying for summer camp jobs – thousands of international staff are hiring every year.
5. France
France is one of the most visited countries in the world and is somewhere everyone needs to go. Whether you want to study French, experience living somewhere like Paris or are keen to explore the country, you can find so many short and long summer gap year programs in France.
6. Thailand
If you are keen to experience a gap year in Asia then Thailand should be near the top of your list of places to go. This country is just amazing with cities, exotic islands, world famous parties and elephants. There are hundreds of Thailand gap year trips where you can explore the country or do something meaningful like helping elephants. We also highly recommend taking in the epic full moon party.
7. Spain
Spain attracts millions of tourists every year due to the weather, culture, food and locations. From Madrid, to Barcelona to Seville, there are so many places to visit. If you are keen to take a language course abroad then Spain is a popular option, schools are located throughout the country. Plan a gap year to Spain today.
8. Argentina
Dream of spending a gap year in South America? Whether you have always wanted to tango, or explore Buenos Aires, then Argentina is a great choice. Highlights include learning Spanish, exploring spectacular Patagonia or seeing the Iguazu Waterfalls which are breathtaking and one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world.
9. Costa Rica
Experience Pura Vida in Costa Rica! This country is beautiful and there are so many amazing adventures here. You could help sloths, go scuba diving, learn to surf, see volcanoes and more! A popular option for gappers who want to do more than just sightseeing is to teach English in Costa Rica. If this type of experience appeals to you view our guide to the best online TEFL certifications to take to get started.
10. Mexico
Mexico is a popular destination with millions of people visiting every year. From ancient temples, to beaches and cities, Mexico will not disappoint. Highlights include partying in Cancun, learning Spanish in Mexico City and volunteering to help communities. This country is also amazing value for money if you are coming from North America or Europe.
Other Places to Consider
• UK
• Ireland
• Czech Republic
• Vietnam
• Fiji
• Peru
• Japan
Need Inspiration?
There are hundreds of exciting options and trips available around the world including small group tours, gap year jobs, volunteering, intern programs, courses and adventure activities in all the countries featured above.
If you are worried about going on a gap year solo, or you only speak English, you might want to consider booking tours or a structured trip like volunteering. This way you will get to be with similar people and take all the hassle out of travelling.
Browse our destinations and gap year travel ideas to get more inspiration for places to go and things to do around the world.
Have you ever been to any of the countries featured on our list? Or do you have recommendations for places you think we should have included? Let us know in the comments section below.