Have You Considered ‘Voluntourism'

Have you ever wondered how you can combine two of the most popular pastimes in retirement, volunteering and travelling.

Well travelling and giving back can be combined. And as the world is starting to open up again, particularly as we've had the vaccines rolled out now after the pandemic, then there's a new phrase being coined called voluntourism, where it gives travellers an opportunity to enjoy a new place whilst also helping those in need.

Let's have a look at what this might involve.

You might be thinking, who am I actually going to be volunteering for?

Well, some voluntourism trips are coordinated by several organisations with varying responsibilities. And it's important you understand who is ultimately responsible for the volunteers, especially if you're planning to travel internationally and not just in the country.

Maybe look for a well-known corporation, company, charity and look at drilling down at those specifics that they offer and connect to the causes and organisations that you're comfortable helping and donating to. You also need to consider where your money's going to go.

Unlike volunteering at a soup kitchen, volunteerism can often cost as much as traveling on a regular holiday, but don't let that fact that you're dealing with a charity, keep you from asking those questions about how your money is going to be spent.

And if several organisations are coordinating your trip who ultimately receives the payment, does your money only cover your travel and living expenses or does a percentage go directly to the local community that you're trying to help.

What specifically will you be doing?

Many retirees find that volunteer work is actually more physically and emotionally demanding than their regular 9-5 jobs were. So whilst your volunteering and travelling, it could be a great experience, but you need to make sure you understand what amenities or climate you're going to and what level of work you'll be undertaking so that you can do the tasks that you're going there to do.

Once you found a volunteerism trip that provides all of the positive answers, It might be a good idea to review your short-term travel budget at the same time.

Are you rolling over any unspent holiday money from 2020?

Do you have delayed travel plans that you're hoping to catch up on this year?

Are you thinking about making volunteer work and a charity, a longer part of your retirement plan?

Whatever your decision is, whatever you want to do.

Having a discussion with your financial planner is crucial to make sure that you can put a plan in action to help you with the goals you're looking to achieve in retirement.