How to Save for a Gap Year You'll Never Forget

A gap year spent working or travelling overseas offers school-leavers or graduates the perfect opportunity to enjoy sun, sea, sand and adventure, before going to university or settling down to the world of work. So whether you fancy an extended holiday or a job volunteering for community or environmental projects in developing countries, the experience will be both unforgettable and could enhance your employment prospects when you return.

Start saving early

Before you start packing your rucksack, you need to remember that globe-trotting does not come cheap; fail to budget and your gap year could soon end up running into thousands of pounds. The key to a successful extended trip is forward planning - working out how you're going to finance it is just as important as deciding where to go.

Draw up a budget

Think carefully about your finances, and draw up a list of all the big expenses you might encounter, such as transport, food and accommodation. Also take the time to research the local cost of living - a good starting point is Lonely Planet.

Build up a cash reserve

While you may like the idea of working your way around the world, it may also be worth spending some time working here in the UK before you go. This will enable you to build up a cash reserve which could be held in a low-risk savings account paying a high rate of interest.

Where should I stash my cash?

A good starting point is a mini cash individual savings account (ISA) into which you can currently save up to £3,600 a year with no tax on interest (rising to £5,100 in April 2010).

Manchester building society is offering one of the "best buys" at the moment - paying 2.75% with no bonus on its Premier Instant Isa - although this does require a minimum balance of £1,000. For smaller balances, Standard Life is paying 2.65% on its Direct Access Isa on balances of just £1.

You can find great deals on ISAs from some of the biggest names in the market at http://www.confused.com/savings - also find out more about how to save for a Gap year