How Volunteer Travel Works
Planning a volunteer trip is simple when you understand the steps. Here's how the volunteer travel process works with Horizon Impact Travel, from choosing a program through to arriving at your destination.
Horizon Impact Travel specialises in volunteer holidays for families, couples, and adults aged 30+, with carefully selected programs that offer a more comfortable and well-supported travel experience.
Below, you'll find each step of the booking process, what's included in your program, and what you'll need to arrange before you travel.
Step 1: Choose a Volunteer Program
Start by exploring our volunteer programs and destinations to find the volunteer opportunity that best matches your interests and travel goals.
Whether you're travelling as a family, a couple, a solo traveller, or with friends, we'll help you find a program that suits your interests, travel dates, experience, and preferred style of accommodation.
Not sure which destination is the best fit? We're happy to answer your questions and help you compare your options before you book.
Step 2: Discuss Your Plans
Many of our travellers are booking their first volunteer trip.
Before committing, you can contact us to discuss:
- Suitable destinations
- Program options
- Accommodation standards
- Family suitability
- Minimum age requirements
- Travel dates
- Costs and inclusions
We'll make sure you have the information you need before deciding if a program is right for you.
Step 3: Secure Your Place
Once you have selected a program, a deposit is required to secure your place.
Places can fill quickly depending on the destination, time of year, accommodation capacity, and the number of volunteers each local program can accept.
Your booking is confirmed once availability has been verified and written confirmation has been issued.
Step 4: Prepare for Travel
Once your booking is confirmed, we'll send you pre-departure information so you know exactly what to expect before you leave.
This may include information relating to:
- Arrival procedures
- Accommodation
- Packing recommendations
- Local conditions
- Program expectations
- Travel documentation requirements
We will also explain any destination-specific requirements before departure.
Step 5: Arrange Your Flights
International flights are not included.
You'll arrange your own international flights, giving you complete flexibility over how and when you travel.
This gives you the flexibility to:
- Choose your preferred airline
- Use reward points or loyalty programs
- Extend your stay independently
- Travel from your nearest airport
Airport transfers are included. The local program partner will arrange them using the arrival details you provide before departure.
Step 6: Purchase Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is required for all participants.
Your insurance policy should provide appropriate cover for:
- Medical expenses
- Emergency medical treatment
- Emergency evacuation
- Repatriation
- Trip cancellation
- Trip interruption or curtailment
- Personal liability
- Loss or theft of personal belongings
- Volunteer activities included within your chosen program
We also recommend a policy that includes supplier failure cover, which can protect you if a travel provider ceases trading before your trip.
You are responsible for ensuring that your policy provides suitable cover for your destination, travel dates, and planned activities.
Proof of insurance may be requested before departure.
Step 7: Travel and Participate
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the local program team where applicable and provided with the information necessary to begin your volunteer placement.
Your local program partner provides your accommodation, orientation, volunteer activities, and in-country support throughout your placement.
Volunteer activities can change to reflect local community needs, weather conditions, conservation priorities, or other operational requirements.
What Is Included?
Inclusions vary by destination and program.
Your proposal and booking confirmation will clearly explain what is included.
Depending on the program, inclusions may include:
- Volunteer placement
- Accommodation
- Airport pickup
- Meals
- Local orientation
- In-country support
What Is Not Usually Included?
Unless specifically stated otherwise, program fees do not normally include:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa costs
- Vaccinations
- Personal spending
- Optional excursions
- Additional accommodation nights
- Independent travel arrangements
Why Travellers Choose Horizon Impact Travel
Most volunteer travel companies are designed primarily for students, backpackers, and gap-year travellers.
Horizon Impact Travel is different.
We focus on families, couples, and adults aged 30+ who want a more comfortable and well-supported volunteer travel experience.
Many of our programs include private accommodation, and we prioritise destinations and local partners that are suitable for mature travellers seeking greater comfort, privacy, and convenience.
Ready to Start Planning?
Explore our volunteer programs or contact us if you would like help comparing destinations and finding the right volunteer experience for your travel plans.