Volunteer Abroad Programs for Groups of Friends
Volunteer abroad programs can work well for groups of friends who want to travel together while taking part in a shared volunteer experience. The best option depends on what everyone wants from the trip, including the type of project, destination, duration, budget and accommodation.
Friends do not necessarily need identical preferences when volunteering abroad as a group, but major differences should be discussed before booking.
Abroad Escape can help groups of friends identify suitable programs and arrange their trip with an independent local program partner.
I think volunteering with friends works best when everyone agrees on what kind of trip they are actually booking.
Before choosing a program, I'd have an honest conversation about the project, budget, accommodation and how much time everyone wants to spend volunteering. You don't have to agree on everything, but major differences can become a problem once you're abroad.
I'd rather see friends choose a program that genuinely suits the group than pick a destination first and try to make the volunteering fit around it.
What Friends Should Agree on Before Booking
| Decision | What to discuss |
|---|---|
| Volunteer project | Does everyone have broadly similar expectations about the type of volunteer work? |
| Budget | Is the overall cost realistic for everyone in the group? |
| Accommodation | Are the accommodation arrangements acceptable to everyone? |
| Duration | Can everyone commit to the same period of volunteering and travel? |
| Expectations | Does everyone understand what the volunteer experience will involve before committing? |
Why Abroad Escape?
Abroad Escape is an independent volunteer travel agency helping people choose and arrange volunteer programs delivered by independent local program partners.
What makes us different is the advice behind the recommendation. Kurt, our founder, has more than 20 years of experience in volunteer and meaningful travel and has been involved in the industry since 2006. He uses that experience to help travellers understand their options and make a better-informed decision.
Planning a Group Volunteer Trip?
If you're travelling with three or more people, tell us about your plans. Kurt can help you explore suitable destinations and programs and answer your questions before you decide.