Imaginative travellers planning a gap year should plan ahead in order to get the most out of their time abroad, according to a travel money expert.
Moneysupermarket.com's Peter Harrison said that big adventures require "careful financial planning" and graduates and students would do well to keep a number of tips in mind.
He suggested that travel insurance is an essential that is not to be neglected and it is important for backpackers to do their research, as policies vary widely.
Mr Harrison explained it is important for travellers planning to scuba dive or jet ski to make sure these activities are covered under their policy and suggested that worldwide gap year cover may be a good option for those planning a longer trip away.
He also noted that gap-year travellers should let their bank and credit card provider know about their travel plans so that they are not accidentally blocked for irregular payment activity.
BootsnAll's top destinations for backpackers in 2009 include Tasmania, Columbia, Panama, Argentina and the Italian island of Sardinia.