People may embark on a "voluntourism" vacation for one or more of several reasons. They may be students looking to gain experience that will help them with their field of study or enhance their prospects after graduation. They may be bored of the usual basking in the sun holidays and be seeking a different type of vacation. They may simply be looking to give something back or helping others less privileged than themselves. As the world opens up and we learn more about other cultures and environments, many people look upon voluntourism as a way to do work to help save wildlife, help the poor or those afflicted through natural disaster. Whatever your reason for participating, it makes good sense to prepare well.

Everyone is different and has their own idea of what they can manage so it is important to find out how you will be living and what work is required of you. Some projects require skilled people, others just need willing hands. Do not be disheartened if one charity turns you down, there will be others more suited to your skills and interests.

Ask among your friends and acquaintances to see if they know anyone who can tell you about there experiences or contact the placement organisers and see if they can put you in touch with someone else in your area who has participated; they should be able to give you a better idea of what to expect.

Once you have decided where you are going and what you are going to do it would be a good idea to learn the basics of the language (assuming it is not your own or you do not already speak it). You should also learn a little about the country and its culture, tradition and politics before you go. This should help prevent any embarrassing incidents or accidental offence causing.

Try to find out what things you can or can't buy there; if you require certain sanitary items you may need to take them with you. Similarly, you should think about any immunisations you may need and consult your doctor about advance prescriptions for any medication you require. Ask you optician to write down your lens prescription in case you need to replace spectacles or contact lenses.

Find out from the organisation whether there is anything the volunteers who are already there would like you to fetch with you. Even some candy or chocolate from back home can be a much welcomed gift.

If you are going overseas, especially to somewhere quite different from home, put together a mini-scrapbook containing a few photographs of your home town and your family; not only will this be interesting to the people you meet, but it will be a nice reminder of home for you.

The most important thing you need to pack is your sense of humour and your optimism. You may see things that are shocking or distressing. You may find the living conditions very different to what you are used to. You may struggle with the food. But always remember that you are there not just for yourself but for others and you should go a long way.

Learn more about this author, Fiona Thompson.
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