The Solo Traveller
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Inspirations
Volunteering abroad takes us off the map of sightseeing and into the rhythm of real communities, where even the smallest moments can leave impressions and memories than can last a lifetime. Photographer: Yannis H.
Volunteering abroad – travelling solo beyond the itinerary
By Emily Clarke
Briefly …
Travelling with purpose takes solo travel to a new level. Volunteering abroad lets you connect, contribute and find meaning beyond the itinerary – one community, one conversation, and one shared moment at a time.
There’s a certain kind of journey that begins when we give our time, not just our presence. Volunteering abroad takes us off the map of sightseeing and into the rhythm of real communities, where our days unfold with purpose, conversations linger, and even the smallest moments can leave impressions and memories than can last a lifetime.
As solo travellers, it travel that asks a little more of us and gives us much more in return. From conservation projects in the wild to education programs in small and often remote towns and villages, these experiences offer a window into everyday life and the quiet power of shared effort.
For solo travellers, it’s an invitation to connect more deeply with people, with place, and the meaning behind the distances we travel. It’s travel that asks a little more of us, but which gives so much more in return. From conservation work on land and in the ocean, to classroom projects in small, often remote towns, these experiences offer a rare glimpse into everyday life and the quiet strength of shared effort.
“From conservation work beneath wide, open skies to classroom projects in small, often remote towns, these experiences offer a rare glimpse into everyday life and the quiet strength of shared effort.”
But genuine volunteering also asks for awareness – respect for culture, humility in approach, and patience to understand that real impact grows slowly. Done well, it’s not about ‘helping’ but joining in, standing shoulder to shoulder, learning as much as you give, and discovering what it can mean to ‘belong’ in places you never expected.
As more travellers seek meaning on the road, the chance to contribute our passion, intention, and skills, reminds us that the journey that changes us most isn’t always the one we plan, it’s the one we share, and the people we share it with.
Solo volunteering with International Volunteer HQ – travel with purpose, confidence, and connection
If you are travelling solo and want to combine adventure with purpose, International Volunteer HQ offers a flexible, supported and affordable way to do it. Image courtesy IVHQ.
If you are travelling solo and want to combine adventure with purpose, International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) offers a flexible, supported and affordable way to do it. The team at IVHQ have generously shared their time and insights with The Solo Traveller, to highlight the best destinations for solo travellers, provide budgeting tips, ethical volunteering advice, and practical preparation steps so you can begin to think about volunteering abroad with confidence.
Why does IVHQ work so well for solo travellers?
Safety and support
IVHQ ensures you are never on your own when it matters. You will receive pre-departure guidance, airport pick-up, accommodation arranged by local teams and access to 24/7 in-country support. This makes it ideal for first-time solo travellers.
Community and connection
Volunteering through IVHQ means joining a global community. You will stay in volunteer houses or homestays with other travellers, take part in local activities and orientation sessions, and build friendships that last well beyond your trip.
Flexibility
Choose from programs in more than 40 destinations and decide how long you stay, from one to 24 weeks. Whether you have a short holiday or a long career break, IVHQ has options that fit your goals and schedule.
Affordability and transparency
IVHQ’s model keeps volunteering affordable. Fees cover accommodation, meals (on many programs), orientation and support. Costs vary by destination and duration, so check current rates on IVHQ’s website before booking.
Ethical and responsible volunteering
All IVHQ programs are run in partnership with local organisations that understand community needs. The focus is on sustainable, ethical projects that create real impact and cultural exchange.
How does it work?
Step 1: Choose your destination and project
Browse IVHQ’s destinations and find a cause that suits you. Popular projects include teaching, childcare, conservation, construction, and healthcare.
Step 2: Apply and get confirmed
Complete an online application and pay a small registration fee to secure your place. You will then get access to the ‘MyIVHQ’ portal with detailed preparation resources.
Step 3: Prepare
Complete your training modules, background checks (if required), organise travel insurance and visas, book flights, and start packing. Check out The Solo Traveller packing guide for inspiration.
Step 4: Arrival and orientation
On arrival you will be met at the airport, taken to your accommodation and introduced to your local team and fellow volunteers during orientation.
Step 5: Volunteer schedule and support
Most programs involve volunteering 3–6 hours per day, Monday to Friday. Evenings are free, and weekends are perfect for exploring. The local team provides ongoing support throughout your stay.
Step 6: Weekends and travel add-ons
Solo travellers often use weekends to travel with other volunteers or explore independently. Many choose to add tours or language lessons before or after their placement.
IVHQ projects include teaching, kindergarten support, construction, turtle conservation, and health education. Image courtesy IVHQ.
Program highlights for solo travellers
Ubud and Lovina, Bali Culture, beaches and community life. Projects include teaching, kindergarten support, construction, turtle conservation, and health education. From around AUD$600 for 1–24 weeks.
Cape Town and Table View, South Africa City energy and coastal lifestyle. Projects include childcare, teaching, sports development, and special needs support. From around AUD$450.
San José and Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica Nature, Spanish immersion and biodiversity. Projects include childcare, turtle conservation, construction and eco-agriculture. From around AUD$850.
Naples, Italy History, culture and European living. Projects include teaching, after-school care, NGO and marine conservation. From around AUD$2,400 for 2 weeks.
“Volunteering solo with IVHQ was life changing I arrived nervous and left with lifelong friends and a new sense of purpose.” Image courtesy IVHQ.
“Volunteering solo with IVHQ was life changing. I arrived nervous and left with lifelong friends and a new sense of purpose.”
— A solo traveller and IVHQ volunteer
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to start? Start by creating your ‘responsible volunteering checklist’. Choose a project that matches your skills, confirm it’s run by local partners, respect cultural norms, follow IVHQ’s child-safe guidelines, and focus on meaningful exchange.
What’s included in the fees? Fees typically include accommodation, some meals (depending on the project), airport pick-up (where offered and available), orientation, in-country support, and program placement.
What’s not included in the fees? Flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, local transport and personal spending.
Do you have any budgeting or money-saving tips? Yes. Travel off-peak, stay longer, share accommodation, and budget for weekend travel.
Do I need experience or a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification (for those who want to teach English to non-native speakers worldwide)? No, most IVHQ programs are beginner-friendly. A TEFL is helpful but not essential for teaching roles.
Is it safe to volunteer solo? Yes, IVHQ provides vetted accommodation, local coordinators and 24/7 support. Use common-sense safety practices.
What is the accommodation like? You’ll stay in a volunteer house or homestay, usually shared with other volunteers. Private upgrades may be available.
How much free time will I have? Typically 3–6 hours of volunteering daily, with evenings and weekends free to explore.
Are there age limits? Most programs are open to volunteers aged 18 and over.
To find out more about IVHQ’s range of volunteering opportunities around the world, visit their official site here.
Emily Clarke is a passionate solo traveller and The Solo Traveller’s Tourism Collaborations Lead.