Summary of Taking a Sabbatical to Travel the World
Once you’ve been working for 10 years or more and your career seems well underway, you might feel as though the opportunity to take a sabbatical to travel the world is within reach.
However, the concept of taking a sabbatical, or a year off from work, has gained popularity from the fringes of society to becoming a norm in workplaces globally. Many individuals consider a career break at some point to travel or fulfill other ambitions they hold dear.
Tips to Take a Sabbatical and Travel the World
Moreover, not everyone needs to quit their jobs to travel the world. Many people genuinely enjoy their work yet still harbor a desire to explore distant lands.
Thousands of individuals embark on a year-long journey from their careers and return to fulfilling and rewarding jobs post-travel. Therefore, if the idea of a sabbatical excites you, consider these essential steps toward making your dream trip around the globe a reality.
1. Talk to Your Boss
Your organization may already have policies that allow employees to take extended paid or unpaid leave after a certain period of employment.
If this applies to you, arranging your time off with your employer should be straightforward. You can discuss your planned absence and the terms for your return to work following your trip.
Even if your employment contract does not explicitly mention sabbaticals, don’t assume that you won’t be allowed to take one. Having a conversation with your boss may unveil flexible options that you weren’t aware of.
2. Assess Your Situation
The ideal time for a travel sabbatical is when you can fully enjoy the experience. If you have significant responsibilities at home, it may not be the best time to embark on a globetrotting journey.
Moreover, if you have a family, it’s crucial to ensure that traveling is a shared desire. Many families thrive while exploring the world together, which can be an invaluable education for children.
Consider any major upcoming events that may require your presence, as your absence could affect friends or family. You’ll enhance your travel experience by resolving any potential guilt before you leave.
Conversely, if your upcoming year appears relatively free, this could be the perfect window for a sabbatical and worldwide exploration.
3. Make Arrangements for Your Home
Once you confirm that you can take a sabbatical and have received approval from your employer, it’s time to sort out your living arrangements if you own a home.
Options include having friends or family house-sit during your travels, renting your property to cover mortgage costs, or even selling your home and waiting until you return to purchase another property.
Many homeowners who travel extensively choose to rent out their homes, ensuring they can cover costs while enlisting trusted friends or family to help with maintenance during their absence. However, it’s important to note that leaving a home unattended for a long period can void insurance policies.
4. Choose Your Destinations
When planning your first significant journey, it’s crucial to outline at least a rough itinerary. You can purchase a flight to a destination and maneuver overland or work with travel operators that offer round-the-world tickets, selecting desired locations.
Be aware that ticket terms may limit routes or flight directions at specific times. Therefore, checking with your travel operator about any restrictions is wise. Many useful travel blogs are also available to assist in making your destination choices.
5. Cover Against Problems
Obtaining comprehensive worldwide travel insurance is imperative before embarking on any extensive trip. The minimal cost of insurance is far outweighed by the potential expenses incurred when issues arise during your travel without it.
Utilize insurance comparison websites to find deals that provide the necessary coverage tailored to your specific travel needs.
6. Budget
Traveling long-term doesn’t have to break the bank. By choosing locally run guesthouses or hostels, dining at local restaurants, and hiring local guides, your funds can last considerably longer. It is essential to estimate your travel costs to avoid returning home to unexpected debt.
Consider how long you will be away and the budget required for the style of travel you desire. The last thing you want upon returning from a transformative experience is a stack of bills awaiting you.
Thus, if you’ve been considering a sabbatical, initiate your planning process now, and soon you will find yourself exploring the world.
Travel Planning Resources
Looking to plan your next adventure? Consider utilizing these reputable resources.
Plan Your Flights: Find the best flight deals through Skyscanner, a trusted companion for many travelers over the years.
Book Your Hotel: Discover the best hotel prices with two excellent providers. If you’re situated in Europe, check out Booking.com; for locations elsewhere, TripAdvisor is recommended.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, visit VRBO.
Get Travel Insurance: It’s essential to have coverage. Here are our recommendations:
- Safety Wing – Perfect for occasional travelers.
- Medjet – Offers global air medical transport and travel security.
Activities Planning: Searching for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, or private guides? We recommend Get Your Guide.
For additional assistance with your trip planning, don’t hesitate to explore our Resources Page, showcasing all the reliable companies we trust during our travels.
