Gap year students advised to book travel through operators

Gap year students should make sure that they arrange their voluntary placements abroad through a reputable organisation, according to an industry expert.

Nick Trend, writing for the Daily Telegraph, said that people who have taken the time to book hotels, plane tickets and a voluntary placement could find that their plans are scuppered by a staff strike or illness.

They would have to rearrange everything themselves, possibly paying more or losing money, according to Mr Trend.

"If you had booked all your arrangements through a tour operator, you would be in a rather different position. You would not have the trouble of rearranging all the details yourself and you would not be liable for any of the subsidiary cancellation charges if it proved impossible to travel," he added.

Richard Oliver, chief executive of Year Out Group, agreed, adding that gap year students should also do research into whether the gap year organisation is a reputable one, and also whether the placement is suitable for their needs.

For more information on gap year planning.

( Last Updated: 2010-03-09 16:19:18)