Traveling with a cause is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. My first vagabonding plan ever, was to go to Brazil and work for 3-6 months with street children. Hasn’t happened yet, but it is something in my mind. That’s why I keep looking for and bookmarking sites that offer programs allowing you to travel, volunteer and contribute in some way.

Earth Watch Expeditions is one I came across recently and liked. It involves you in scientific and environment research that contributes to sustainable development and to finding solutions for environmental issues.

They have over a 100 expeditions across the world to choose from, depending on your interests. For instance, you can help Chinese scientists discover why the Gobi Desert is growing at an alarming rate, or help save the cheetah in Namibia.

However, what they don’t say is how much the expeditions cost, and how long you can be on a project. I suppose that differs significantly from project to project, so it’s hard to put down.

Volunteer programs are a great way to begin vagabonding, although they could cost more money than you might have budgeted for. You will not only travel to remote places, but get immersed into the area, learn something in detail, make a difference, and meet other people who want to make a difference.

So if you are afraid to just pack-up and leave, look up a volunteer program and start off with that.
Think of what interests you, or where your expertise lies and you will definitely be able to find a program that fits your frame. Transitions Abroad has a fantastic archive of information and links to volunteer work abroad — you might want to start your search there.