International Volunteer Day: How Backpackers Create Real Impact Abroad

What does International Volunteer Day Mean?

Every year on 5 December, International Volunteer Day highlights the people who give their time, skills and energy to support communities around the world. But what many travellers don’t realise is when done right, travellers can be the most impactful volunteers.

From spending a week helping a turtle conservation centre in Greece, to assisting English classes in rural Cambodia, volunteering while travelling creates genuine connections and often leaves a lasting benefit long after the backpack is unpacked.

How do Travellers Make a Difference?

Travellers bring something uniquely valuable, time, curiosity and cultural exchange. You don’t need specialist skills to make an impact; sometimes, consistent support is what communities need most.

Examples of meaningful contributions:

Supporting local NGOs that rely on short-term volunteers

Helping with community tourism projects in rural areas

Joining environmental clean-ups 

Assisting with after-school programmes when visiting longer-term destinations

Contributing to animal welfare centres that need daily hands-on help

Even a few hours can shift pressure off local staff and strengthen community-led efforts!

The Dos & Don’ts of Volunteering Abroad

Not all volunteering is created equal. Ethical travel matters.

Do:

Choose organisations that are locally run

Prioritise roles that match your skills or interests

Support long-term, community-led projects

Always follow local advice, culture and expectations

Don’t:

Join unregulated orphanage tourism

Expect to “save” a community

Treat volunteering like a photoshoot opportunity

Take roles requiring professional qualifications you don’t have

Take photos of children / locals without permission

Ethical volunteering is about respect, not rescue.

Volunteering Opportunities Across Europe & Southeast Asia

If you’re keen to volunteer during your trip, we’ve created a monthly roundup with legitimate, ethical volunteering options:

Check back here for our Where to Volunteer guide.

Why International Volunteer Day Matters for Travellers

Travel is more than bucket lists and itineraries, it’s a chance to be part of something.

International Volunteer Day is a reminder that:

Your choices matter

Your time and energy can support real community projects

You can leave a destination better than you found it

And as travel grows again across Europe and Southeast Asia, responsible volunteering shapes the future of tourism.

If you’re travelling soon, consider adding one small volunteering action to your journey, even if it’s just one beach clean-up, or one day helping a local organisation.

Small actions add up.
And today is the perfect day to start.