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With A-Level results out last week, many people have been left wondering whether to skip university for a year. In a new development, however, many homeowners are taking the advantage of the boom in the rental market and are renting their houses out for twelve months while they travel the world. Either way it helps to set out a few plans beforehand.

Decide what you would like out of the year

There’s no need to feel pressured into doing a cultural tour on your year off. Likewise, some people are happy to live in one place precisely because it will be relaxing and give a deeper understanding of a new country without the tiring tours of museums and landmarks. Others secretly hope to find a soulmate or partner on their voyages rather than clocking up postcards or keyrings, so they will be looking for good festivals and social events such as dance.

Climate, language and working rights are usually the most restricting factors. Many people plan to stop somewhere that they can work for a while and this should be budgeted into your plans.

Another useful thing to consider when choosing your route or destination is the impact of family and

friends. I have a relative whose long lost aunty rented out her flat to him and his friend for a pittence a week in the middle of the best district in Sydney. All of their travel plans evaporated with this great deal and they ended up seeing more of the nightclubs of New South Wales than the outback of Australia.

Friends and relatives can help you to see a different side of the place which you visit.

Check before you go

Political conditions can be as unpredictable as the weather. A country that was once stable can easily turn dangerous on the whim of a leader. A couple of years ago, Fiji was surprisingly hit by a military coup and many travellers had to alter their plans. But there’s no need to worry, just check out the Foreign Office’s “Travel Advice by Country”. It is regularly updated and contains many surprises.

Worried parents can buy the Worst-case Scenario Travel Handbook for only £7.49, or Bear Grylls “Born Survivor” for the most extreme risk management.

Book the trip

There are a range of people to book through. It’s often cheaper to book local connections if you’re on a shoestring, but the more expensive carriers do offer some protection in the advent of bad weather or cancellations - not to mention a bit more food! Sta Travel can offer discounted travel to many young people (under 25’s). As for long haul, the general opinion seems to be that Emirates and Qantas are the best for those in economy class, but most of larger carriers are very comfortable.

Getting around

You certainly see a lot more and get a more realistic view of a country if you organise your own trips and hire a vehicle. However, in more remote or volatile countries, official tours can offer more safety and cut through the local bureaucracy. If you do hire a vehicle, be aware of local driving laws and make sure you know how to maintain your vehicle. Even in Australia, they have bizarre “hook-turn” systems in some of the larger cities, and France has recently introduced laws requiring drivers to carry a high-visibility jacket with them in case of breakdown. Many countries also operate toll roads which require permits to travel on motorways or bypasses. Just ask around before travelling and read all official signs.

Keep in touch

It’s easy to keep in touch with friends and family if you have access to the internet. GetJealous.com, Wordpress blogs and Facebook are all free and allow you to upload photos. To see what can be done with a flight ticket and a camera, check out www.amyu.org and Essential Australia.

Without guaranteed access to the internet there are many call card options and good old-fashioned postcards. The benefit of postcards are that those back home get to see the foreign stamps. However, if you are going to use a mobile phone, it is often cheaper to set up a pay-as-you-go in the country where you are staying because most countries are far cheaper than Britain.

The other option is a phone card in a SIM for your mobile. letsroam^TM have a global SIM card which provides free roaming in over 50 countries and operates in over 90. You just replace the SIM in your unlocked GSM phone before travelling. Top-ups and pin numbers can be purchased on-line and delivered by email.

Having fun and looking good

Minimal packing requires a focused mind if you intend to stay chic around the world. Always pack a pair of jeans and a jumper. You may encounter many countries where the temperature drops at night, or where certain attractions require a modest dress code - for example, the Vatican in Rome requires men and women to cover their knees and shoulders. In the height of summer you’ll probably want to make that linen trousers or a floaty long skirt.

Remember sun cream, but if you’re really pushed for space, take skiing suncream which is concentrated and powerful. Sunglasses are a must, as are lots of pants. Our best investments abroad have always been gadgets such as car-powered fridges, cameras, mobiles and a watercan.

Bon voyage!