Work and Travel is almost the Swiss army knife among the forms of travel: you combine work with travel and experience a country not only as a tourist, but also really immerse yourself in the culture.
The special feature of this form of travel is precisely this mixture of Work and leisure. You have the opportunity to work in a country for a few weeks or months, earn money and get to know the country and people at the same time. This is not only about making money, but above all about the unique experience, Experience everyday life in a foreign country up close.
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Benefits of Work and Travel
A work-and-travel program offers you a variety of benefits that go far beyond the pure gap year. You can learn what it is like to work in the respective country, not only improve your language skills in turbo mode, but also gain valuable work and travel experience for your later career.
In many countries, you learn to find your way relatively easily and develop important intercultural skills. What you can experience at Work and Travel shapes you throughout your life.
Disadvantages of Work and Travel
Okay, let’s be honest – nothing is perfect, not even Work and Travel:
- Job search can sometimes be frustrating (especially if you don’t speak a word of the local language)
- The salary is usually only for the bare necessities!
- Homesickness can sometimes blow in (but there’s FaceTime for that!)
- Work is often physically exhausting (but hey, save yourself the gym!)
What Work and Travel really means – far from clichés – I will show you in this article: Work and Travel | Make the world your home.
Work and Travel in Europe: What are the costs?
The cost of work and travel in Europe varies greatly by country and region. Thorough financial planning is the key to success. You must take into account both the one-time costs before departure and the current expenses on site.
Costs before start
- Passport (if not already available): about 60€
- Medical insurance abroad: 30-50€ Per month
- Basic equipment (if not already available): 300-500€
- Start-up capital: at least 1500-2,000€ (better more!)
Current costs on site
Different by country, but count on:
- Accommodation: 300-600€/ month
- Food: 200-400€/ month
- Transportation: 50-100€/ month
- Free time: 100-200€/ month
- Negro: always good!
You want to know specifically how much money you need for Work and Travel in Europe? Then read on in my article Work and Travel Europe: Costs and budget planning With example calculations, savings tips.
Work and Travel: Agency or self-organizing?
Around the topic of "organizing work and travel" the question arises: agency or plan yourself? An agency often offers an all-round carefree package with insurance and helps with the packing list. The service has its price – expect additional costs between 500 and 1,000€. For this you have a permanent contact and do not have to take care of many organizational things yourself.
Self-organization requires more time and research, but offers you maximum flexibility. You can react spontaneously to job offers and arrange your stay as you wish. You also save the agency fees. Many Work and Travelers swear by this independent way of travel as it trains additional organizational skills.
When can I participate in a Work and Travel program?
The perfect time for Work and Travel is as individual as you are. Many start immediately after school in order to make good use of the time until study or education. Others take time off after training or studying to gain new perspectives. Even during a professional reorientation, Work and Travel can be an enriching experience.
The most important thing is that you yourself feel ready for this adventure. You should be at least 18 years old and bring the necessary maturity to find your way around a foreign country. Some emotional and financial independence is also beneficial.
What conditions apply to Work and Travel Programmes?
- You must be at least 18 years old
- EU citizens have it easy: work permit in the EU is no problem
- Sufficient language skills (at least basics)
- Health insurance
- Sufficient starting capital
Work and Travel: European countries in comparison
Europe offers Work and Travel opportunities for all tastes. What’s special: You can easily switch between countries and explore different destinations. In most European countries, thanks to EU freedom of movement, you can work and travel without much bureaucracy.
Beginner friendly:
- Ireland: English speaking and super hospitable
- Scandinavia: Very well organized, almost all speak English
- Netherlands: Germany close and also very English-friendly
The most favourable:
- Portugal: Cheap life, dreamlike beaches
- Eastern Europe: Low Cost of Living
- Greece: Outside the tourist centers very affordable
Always note:
- Seasons (Winter in Scandinavia!)
- Cost of living vs. Earning opportunities
- Language barriers
- Accommodation situation
Work and Travel: More info and tips
Medical insurance abroad
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is mandatory
- Additional foreign health insurance highly recommended
- Check your existing insurance for foreign protection
Duration of stay
- In the EU: Practically unlimited
- Note working time restrictions depending on country
- Usually 3-12 months
Job opportunities and earning opportunities
The world of work is wide open to you in Europe. Employees in the tourism industry are in particular demand – from the reception in the hostel to the surf instructor on the beach. Gastronomy also offers many entry possibilities. In agriculture, you will find good opportunities, especially during the harvest time. The earning possibilities vary greatly: While in Scandinavia you are with 1,800-2,500€ monthly, it is in southern Europe rather 800-1.200€.
Child benefit
Yes, under certain conditions you can continue to receive child support:
- If you are under 25
- If the stay is part of the training
- Apply for it beforehand at the family fund
The most important tips
- Save enough money before: Your starting capital is your safety net!
- Learn the basics of the local language: "Beer" and "Thank you" are a good start
- Be flexible: Sometimes detours lead to the best goals
- Document everything: Contracts, insurance, important numbers
- Stay connected: A good SIM card is worth gold
I have put together a comprehensive packing list for each climate zone in this article: Work and Travel Packing List | For every climate & adventure.
Work and Travel in Europe: Alternatives
In addition to classic work and travel, there are several alternative ways to explore Europe while saving money. Workaway and similar platforms provide accommodation against assistance. The European Voluntary Service offers funded projects in various areas, from environmental protection to youth work.
WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) is ideal for nature lovers. You work on organic farms and get to know sustainable agriculture (typical farm work). As Au pair you live with a host family and take care of their children – an intensive opportunity to get to know the language and culture.
If you decide to work and travel in Europe, why not start in Germany? Why this might be worthwhile for you, I explained in this article: Work and Travel: Germany offers more than you think!
Frequently asked questions
How does Work and Travel work in Europe?
Work and Travel in Europe is relatively uncomplicated thanks to the EU free movement. You choose a destination country, take care of the basic organization such as insurance and accommodation, and set off. Locally, you apply for various jobs that finance your stay.
In which country is Work and Travel best?
This question cannot be answered in general, as it depends on your personal priorities. Scandinavia attracts with high salaries and perfect organization, while southern European countries score with lower cost of living and a more relaxed atmosphere. For beginners, the Netherlands or Ireland are often ideal, as here the language barrier is low and the job opportunities are good.
How much money do you need for Work and Travel?
Your finances should be on three pillars: start-up capital, ongoing costs, and nest eggs. As a starting capital, at least 2,000€ Recommended. Monthly costs vary by region – in southern Europe you come with about 800€ In Central Europe you should get 1,200€ in Scandinavia more than 1,500€. The nest egg should be sufficient to finance a trip home in case of doubt.
Where do you earn the most?
The highest wages can definitely be found in Northern Europe. Norway, Denmark and Sweden top the list, followed by the Netherlands and Germany. However, you always have to see these numbers in relation to the cost of living. Higher earnings do not automatically mean more money to save or travel.
