Beg Borrow or Fundraise

How you can get the funds to travel.

There comes a time in every traveller's life when they need that little bit of extra cash. I don't believe that money makes the world go round, but when it comes to travelling, it sure does make for a smoother ride. Of course there are your basic money-makers such as working, winning the lottery, or begging your relatives, but for important trips and life-changing experiences (e.g. volunteer projects and studying abroad) I find it's useful to supplement your income with fundraising.

I am aware that in the 21st century more and more people are raising money for all sorts of important causes, making it difficult to convince the public that personal endeavours are of any value. Not to worry, with the right attitude and a little creativity you too can have a crack at a global experience.

A few years back I had the opportunity to travel with an international student program called "Up With People." In less than a year I managed to raise $12,000 dollars while still studying. I tried to focus on my personal strengths to create fundraisers that were both easy and memorable.

The most successful was an evening of improvised comedy and theatre sports (similar to the television show Whose Line is it Anyway?). I asked several well-known faces from the community (theatre managers, politicians, actors, etc.) to form teams, and participate in the event. Several friends made snacks to sell at intermission, and my family helped advertise and sell tickets at the door. I made $600 and we had a blast.