In June 2024, I spent one week volunteering with Worldpackers in Togo and it was the best travel experience I’ve ever had. Worldpackers is a work exchange platform that connects travelers with hosts around the world.
In exchange for your time and skills, you receive free accommodation and, in many cases, meals. It’s an affordable way to travel, make a positive impact, and immerse yourself in different cultures.
Whether you’re interested in volunteering with NGOs, working in hostels, teaching languages, or even farming, there’s something for everyone on Worldpackers. Plus, some projects allow travelers to come as a group.
My Volunteering Experience with Worldpackers
In May, I applied to several projects on Worldpackers that are close to my country so I wouldn’t have to spend so much on transportation. My countries of choice were Benin, Togo, and Ghana. Fortunately, I was accepted in Togo, marking the start of a life-changing experience. Since arriving in Togo, I’ve been volunteering with a local NGO that uses sports to empower and educate children in the community.
The Community and the Impact
Working with the Togolese children was an incredibly fulfilling experience. Despite the language barrier, we found ways to connect and communicate. I shared my personal stories with them, encouraging them to dream big and work hard. I also helped with media coverage for their sports events and taught them how I shoot and edit videos with just my phone.
The sense of community in Togo was strong, and they offered really great hospitality. I have documented my experiences in my story highlight on Instagram and this playlist on TikTok, so be sure to check them out.
Why You Should Try Worldpackers
If you’re looking for a way to travel meaningfully and affordably, Worldpackers is the perfect platform for you. Here’s why:
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in local cultures, learn new languages, and create lasting memories.
- Skill Development: Whether you’re teaching, farming, or coaching, you’ll develop new skills and improve existing ones.
- Affordable Travel: Save on accommodation and food costs while exploring new places.
- Make an Impact: Contribute to meaningful projects and leave a positive mark on the communities you visit.
- Meet Amazing People: Connect with other travelers, volunteers, and locals.
- Safe and Secure: Worldpackers offers verified hosts, reviews, and a dispute resolution system for peace of mind.
Volunteering With Worldpackers as a Nigerian
As a Nigerian, volunteering with Worldpackers has been a long-standing dream of mine, though I always felt hesitant to take the plunge. I wanted to experience new cultures, connect with people around the world, and make a positive impact through my travels.
However, there was always a lingering sense of doubt. Volunteering abroad wasn’t something I’d seen many Nigerians do, at least not openly. I often found myself wondering if this path was even feasible for someone like me.
Without examples or stories of other Nigerians who had taken this journey, I felt somewhat discouraged, unsure of what to expect or how I would be received in foreign communities. Despite these reservations, I took the leap this year, deciding it was finally time to turn my dream into reality.
This decision opened doors to beautiful experiences and deep connections, proving that Nigerians, too, can fully embrace the Worldpackers experience. I hope my story encourages others from my country to explore volunteer travel confidently.
How Does It Work?
Step 1: Download the App
When I decided I wanted to volunteer with Worldpackers, the first step was to download the app and create an account, which was straightforward. However, the next step introduced a bit of a challenge—buying a membership, which brings us to Step 2.
Step 2: Buy a Membership Plan
After downloading the Worldpackers app, you’ll need to become a verified member by buying the annual membership plan for $49. Once you become a Verified Member, you can apply to as many projects as you wish. This also grants you access to the Support Team that offers you help before, during, and after your trip.
Given that the membership fee was billed in dollars, I was hesitant at first; I actually stayed off the app for an entire year.
For the average Nigerian, $49 is a significant amount, especially as it’s above the minimum wage in Naira. Deciding to spend that much on something unfamiliar is a big step, so take the time you need to weigh it out.
When you’re ready to go for it, I’ve got a $10 discount link to make it easier. By using this link or entering the code FAVOUR at checkout, you’ll be charged $39 instead of $49 for a whole year. This small boost might be just what you need to start your own volunteering journey.
Step 3: Find the Right Volunteering Opportunity for You
Begin by exploring the many work exchange opportunities offered by hosts worldwide. Each listing provides unique experiences, ranging from environmental conservation to teaching, farming, hospitality, and more. To make your search easier, you can filter opportunities based on location, type of work, required skills, and duration of stay.
For example, if you’re passionate about media and marketing, look for opportunities with hosts who need help with social media management, content creation, or digital marketing. If teaching is your strength, explore listings for tutoring, language exchange, or community education. And for animal lovers, there are also plenty of options for pet care, wildlife conservation, or working on animal rescue projects.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, read the host profiles thoroughly to understand their expectations and the cultural exchange they offer. Taking the time to research each option ensures you’ll select a rewarding experience that matches your interests, abilities, and desired commitment level.
Step 4: Create Your Profile
Once you become a Verified Member, it’s time to create your profile. This is your chance to sell yourself. Write a brief bio highlighting who you are, and list your skills, travel dates, and the countries you plan to visit. When you apply for a position, your host will review your profile, and if there are multiple applicants, they’ll make their decision based on the information you provide.
Step 5: Apply to Projects
Applying to projects on Worldpackers is a lot like applying for a job. You’ll want your application to stand out. Remember, there may be many volunteers competing for the same position, and sometimes there’s only one slot available. Think about what unique qualities or experiences make you the right fit, and make sure to highlight them in your application.
When you click Apply Now, you’ll be asked to provide the dates you are available. The application process involves filling out a form to introduce yourself to the host, detailing your experience, skills, and what makes you the right person for the opportunity. If you’re accepted, you’ll receive a notification via email and in the app.
After you’ve applied, the host will have a few days to respond, so it helps to apply way before the dates you plan to travel.
Note: If the host doesn’t have accommodations or the financial resources to fully host you, they may request a small contribution, which will be clearly stated in the project description. For example, in Togo, I paid a daily fee of $15 to cover my hotel, food, internet, water, and local transportation. Not all hosts require this fee. Some, like hospitality organizations, families, or tour agencies, may provide these essentials at no extra cost.
Step 6: Travel and Volunteer
Pack your bags and prepare for an adventure that combines exploration and impact. Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll dive into a new culture, embracing local customs, languages, and ways of life.
As you volunteer, you’ll work alongside community members and other travelers on projects that make a real difference, whether it’s supporting education, conservation, sustainable farming, or other community-driven initiatives.
Volunteering with Worldpackers is more than just a trip; it’s an opportunity to build connections, broaden your perspective, and leave a positive impact that both you and the community will carry forward.
Conclusion
Volunteering with Worldpackers in Togo opened my eyes and changed how I see and want to experience travel. Having spent most of my university years volunteering with organizations like Enactus, it just makes sense that this type of travel exists. I’ll always be grateful for any opportunity to lend a hand, whether here at home or abroad.
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Volunteering with Worldpackers: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to volunteer with Worldpackers?
Worldpackers annual membership costs $49. Other costs will depend on your travel and volunteering arrangements.
Can Nigerians volunteer abroad?
Yes, Nigerians can volunteer abroad. Platforms like Worldpackers have also made it possible for Nigerians to find volunteering opportunities around the world and volunteer for free.
Must I pay to volunteer with Worldpackers?
Yes, there’s an annual membership fee of $49 to apply for volunteering opportunities on Worldpackers. Additionally, some hosts may ask for a daily contribution to cover accommodation, meals, and other essentials.
Can I volunteer with my friends?
Yes, you can volunteer on Worldpackers with friends! Each friend will need their own Worldpackers membership, and your chosen host must allow multiple volunteers at the same time.
Will Worldpackers cover my transportation?
No, Worldpackers will not pay for your transportation to the country where you will be volunteering.
Will Worldpackers sponsor my visa?
No, Worldpackers will not provide sponsorship or influence your visa application if the country where you’ll be volunteering requires one.
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