Casual work as you travel during your year out
Working while you travel gives you independence and flexibility. Generally it’s easier to find casual work in more developed countries, where there is less competition from local workers. You’re most likely to find a job as a fruit picker, a farm labourer, or an office temp. Bar and restaurant work may also be available. If you do a little planning before you leave, you can just jump on a plane or a train and go wherever the work takes you.
Visas and work permits for casual work while you travel
Before you head off, it’s important to find out where you’re eligible to work. British citizens are eligible to work in any EU member countries, and labourers are needed throughout Europe. Many Commonwealth countries allow Britons to work – but you will probably have to arrange a visa with their embassy. You may want to look for a Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa, which may be restricted to unskilled labour. The Australian WHM allows you to stay in the country for a year, and to work for up to three months at a time while you’re there. This is popular, so competition for work may be high.
Before you head off, it’s important to find out where you’re eligible to work.
- Advance plan your gap year: where to go and what to buy
- Read our international travel checklist of documents you need for your year out
Agricultural work for gap year travellers
Seasonal workers are required every year in agriculture, but it’s unpredictable. Late, early or non-existent rains make harvest dates uncertain. If it’s been a bad year, there may be little fruit to harvest; if good, farmers may be begging you to stay. Generally there is work available from spring to autumn, but in Australia there is agricultural work available throughout the year. Some hostels in fruit-picking regions will help you find work. Don’t expect excitement while you’re working, but with all that exercise in the fresh air you’ll get fit and develop a great tan!
Tuck your CV in with your travel kit
If you're interested in office work, take a copy of your CV on disk, or send it as an attachment to your e-mail account. You might also want to take a reference – it could be difficult getting one when you're away. And remember to pack some smart office wear. It may be easiest finding work through a temp agency.
