Planning & Organizing
Getting ready
You have a lot to look forward to, but first, it is important to take care of the following items, so start soon!
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Your passport
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Your visa
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Housing research
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Medical appointments
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Travel arrangements, including getting to your job from the airport
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You are welcome to stay in touch with us or one of our international WORK & TRAVEL representatives throughout this process.
Plan your finances
You will have to cover all of your expenses until you receive your first paycheck. When you arrive, Customs might require proof that you have enough money with you. Acceptable proofs include cash and bank statements.
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You will need at least $800. We recommend that you bring extra money if possible, in case something unexpected happens.
Go see your doc for a check-up
Go see your doc for a check-up
You should see your doctor and dentist before you depart.
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If you take prescription medication, bring a supply that will last for your entire trip, along with a doctor’s note listing all prescription medications and why you need them. You will need this information to share with a doctor, should you need to see one while abroad.
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Once you land
The more you learn before you depart, the easier it will be to get settled when you arrive. Take full advantage of the Internet. Go online and research housing, transportation, geography, and things to do and see. Contact your employer. They may be able to help you.
The trip to your chosen destination might be long. You will be tired because of the travel and time difference. Make it easy on yourself and be prepared with:
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A temporary place to stay
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Hostels, affordable hotels/motels, and universities are all good options for temporary housing. Book a room in advance so you will have a place to go when you arrive. Employers are great resources for finding long-term housing. Some even offer accommodations for your entire stay.
Transportation
Plan how you’ll get from the airport to your temporary housing, and from there to your final destination. Transit agencies (bus lines, subway systems and railroads) publish schedules, maps, and fares online. Your employer can tell you the best way to reach your destination.
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Packing & travelling by plane
Keep important documents, money, prescription drugs, and valuables with you. Do not put them in your checked luggage.
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If this is your first time traveling, follow these tips to make sure your journey is as smooth as possible:
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Check with your airline about luggage fees and restrictions.
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Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is delayed.
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Make sure prescription drugs are clearly marked, and include a note from your doctor.
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Do not bring any perishable foods.
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Arrive at the airport early and keep your bags with you at all times.
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Coming back home
You had some wonderful experiences, made new friends and acquired work experience. Now, you are looking forward to returning home! But first, there are several things you need to do.
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FINAL PAYCHECK
Collect your final paycheck. If your employer cannot give it to you in person, it will have to be mailed to you or deposited into your bank account. Ask when you will receive it and make sure your employer has the necessary information to get it to you.
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NEXT YEAR
Find out if it is possible for you to return next year and work for the same employer. The end of a successful season is a great time to get hired for next year!
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LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
Ask for a letter of recommendation. This can be an advantage when you are looking for future work.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Keep your employer’s contact information in case you need to contact them after you return home.
CLOSE YOUR BANK ACCOUNT
We encourage you to keep your bank account open until you have received your last paycheck.
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Make sure that your employer has given you your last check or made the last direct deposit of your pay. If money is still outstanding, make sure your employer has your home address to mail you your last paycheck.
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Go to the bank and make sure you close your account properly. Bring your papers (passport, visa) for identification. Make sure all fees are paid and that you withdraw all funds from the account. Ask if the bank needs your home country address.
MOVING OUT
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Let your landlord know when you will be leaving, and be sure you’ve met the terms of your lease agreement.
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It is important to leave your place the same way you found it, in good condition and clean. This helps ensure that all of your security deposit is returned to you. This is true for employer-provided housing as well.
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If you’ve bought household items that you will leave behind, consider donating them to charity, giving them to neighbors or coworkers, or having a yard sale.
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Your opinion matters
We’d like to hear what you have to say about your Work & Travel experience. We want to do all we can to make this website the best it can be, and your feedback helps us do this. Soon after you get back to your home country, we’ll ask you to complete an online evaluation – tell us about your job, your housing, and your experience in your host country. And what information would have been helpful before, during and after your stay.
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Stay connected with us
Once you have completed your Work & Travel experience, you have the chance to become one of our GOING PLACES ambassadors - givinig you a chance to pass on all your knowledge and useful tips to future travelers.
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