WorldPackers is a budget traveler’s dream: volunteering across the world
- What is Worldpackers?
- How Much Does it Cost?
- What Profile Information Do I Need?
- Type of Opportunities
- Apply For a Host
- Typical Questions
- Other Features
- Final Thoughts
What is Worldpackers?
Worldpackers is a program to connect travelers with volunteer opportunities across the world. Many of the experiences come with accommodation and meals included, so it’s an awesome way to see new countries on a budget. I loved it for the opportunity to give back to the community, work alongside and learn from locals, and to have experiences I never could have otherwise– like living with elephants at a hands-off sanctuary in Thailand for one month!
How much does it cost?
At the time of writing, the plans start at $49 for a one year solo membership with additional add-ons available for purchase (like extended insurance and access to video lessons).
For friends or couples, the plans start at $59.
You can use code WILLWORK4 for $10 off!
What profile information do I need?
- Your work and volunteer experience
- Rate yourself from “Want to Learn”, “Some Experience,” and I’m an expert” about skills ranging from farming, to art, to plumbing
- If you can get some references lined up, that’s a good idea!
- Optional video introduction
- Profile photo and optional additional photos
Types of Opportunities:
There are all kinds of experiences on WorldPackers so you’re guaranteed to find something that fits your interests and skill set.
- Reception or housecleaning at hostels
- Photography or Videography
- Social media management or content creation
- Farming and agriculture
- Child care
- Teaching (English, yoga, and other skills)
- Working with animals
- Building and repairing
- and so much more!
Apply for a Host:
One of the great things about Worldpackers is that you can explore the site or the app and see all of the available opportunities before committing to a membership.
I already knew I wanted to work as a tour guide at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand and I had narrowed it down to two options. I applied in January for a month long position that began in March.
I applied to both and I heard back from my second choice option within 4 hours, and I was accepted to my first choice a few hours after that!
Typical Questions:
- Introduce yourself and tell us why you want to work with us.
- What relevant experience do you have to this opportunity?
- Do you understand the conditions that you’ll be living in?
- Are you up to the physical expectations of the task?
- If you’re applying for a photography or videography opportunity, do you have the necessary equipment?
- Do you have any questions?
Other Features:
Worldpackers has videos and trainings, some of which are required before applying to certain jobs. The videos were pretty general, nothing terribly groundbreaking, but I thought it was kind of nice to come into the experience with some common ground for all volunteers.
There are hundreds of videos in the Academy, but the ones I needed for my two applications were “How to become an outstanding Worldpacker” and “Eco Certificate for Volunteers: Basic Concepts”.
Final thoughts:
I highly recommend Worldpackers! My experience volunteering with a hand-off elephant sanctuary in rural Thailand is one I will cherish for the rest of my life. The sign up process is really easy and the price is more than affordable. If you choose an opportunity with accommodation and/or food included, it pays for itself in one short trip! Use it as a way to extend your travels, to dig deeper into the communities you visit, and to give more meaning to your roaming.
You can use code WILLWORK4 for $10 off.
