A case for the ‘figuring it out’ period

In an age where gap years are often expected to be spent travelling and broadening horizons, it is important to consider an increasingly popular alternative: staying at home to reflect on life and career plans. In recent years, more young adults have opted to remain at home during their gap year, particularly in response to a tight labour market. So, what are the benefits and drawbacks of spending a gap year at home before entering the workforce?

One major advantage is that it allows young people to take the time to figure out what they truly want in the future — whether that involves starting a family, pursuing multiple jobs, or launching a business. This period allows for careful consideration of one of life’s most pivotal decisions. According to a PwC survey conducted in 2025, 27% of young Britons had chosen jobs they intended to leave. Having a year to reflect can therefore be invaluable for making these essential career decisions.

Staying at home also offers the opportunity to reconnect with family after time away at university, both emotionally and culturally. Families can provide guidance based on their own experiences entering the labour market, helping to avoid common mistakes. While circumstances may have changed — for example, property prices are now far higher than in the past — parents and relatives can still offer practical insights and support.

The primary advantage of living here in Amman is that I’m with my family and can attend all family gatherings

Housing affordability is another factor making a home-based gap year attractive. As house prices rise rapidly and salaries grow slowly, acquiring property has become increasingly difficult for this generation. Landlords often treat houses as profit-maximising assets, and the rate of new construction does not meet the growing demand caused by rural-to-urban migration and international relocation to major cities such as London and Birmingham. By staying at home, young adults can save money and avoid high rent costs.

For example, The Boar interviewed an alumnus from King’s College, London, who chose to spend a gap year with his family in Jordan. He said: “The primary advantage of living here in Amman is that I’m with my family and can attend all family gatherings, spending quality time with them. Another deciding factor was that I live rent-free. Unlike in London, where 40% of my salary goes to tax and 30% to rent, here I can actually save a significant portion of my income.”

On the other hand, living away from home has unique benefits. It can broaden one’s horizons and offer the chance to explore interests in new environments. Whether travelling the world or moving to a major city like London, these experiences each provide valuable opportunities for personal growth and career exploration.

Travelling can broaden perspectives, expand networks, and offer new opportunities for personal and professional growth

Travelling during a gap year, in particular, allows young adults to explore potential new locations in which they may want to live long-term. For instance, more Britons have chosen to live in Australia than the combined population of Coventry and Leamington, illustrating the appeal of international relocation. Additionally, travelling can help young professionals expand their networks globally, even if connections are in industries different from those they ultimately pursue.

In conclusion, both staying at home and travelling offer distinct advantages during a gap year. Staying at home can provide financial security, family support, and time for careful reflection, while travelling can broaden perspectives, expand networks, and offer new opportunities for personal and professional growth. The choice ultimately depends on individual priorities and circumstances.