HOW TO DO AN ADULT GAP YEAR

Don’t quit… just yet

Many hit the road in the aftermath of redundancy, or leaving a big job, but you don’t need to quit to take off – 20 per cent of UK companies have a career break policy. Check whether contractual benefits (such as life insurance, private health cover and holidays) will continue to apply or accrue, and whether it will affect your continuity of service.

Consider hidden costs

Six months to a year on the road means a pause in your pension contributions, so factor that into your financial planning for both your trip and your return. If you’re not coming back to a job it’s wise to have several months of living expenses saved to cushion the search for work.

Plan for your property

Renting out your home while you’re away may cover much of your costs, but remember to factor in property management fees, tax on your rental income, landlord’s insurance and furniture storage (no one will look after it as well as you do). If you have a mortgage, you’ll need your provider’s “consent to let” – and some will raise your interest rate.

Travel with purpose

24/7 freedom can come as a shock after decades of 9-to-5, so it might be worth factoring in a project for at least part of your travels. “Voluntourism” has become a bit of a dirty word, but taking a language course at a school with a homestay programme can give you a practical focus, while forging local friendships.

Remember, it’s never too late

Many grown-up gap year veterans reckon they wouldn’t have got half as much out of the experience if they’d done it years earlier – but even if you’ve done it before, it can be satisfying to relive youthful memories, this time with an en suite attached. Airbnbs can be cost-effective but don’t overlook “boutique” hostels, which can offer surprisingly luxurious private rooms with the benefit of opportunities to meet fellow travellers.