If you’ve been putting off travel plans until gas prices subside and ticket prices become more affordable, you may have missed out on a ripe opportunity that many Americans are already cashing in on – volunteering overseas. 

Many volunteer opportunities are available to U.S. citizens who want to make ad difference while experiencing a new culture or environment, and these programs also offer free board, lodging and in some cases, even cover the costs of that flight. 

From working on an organic farm to teaching English in Sudan, Matador.org recently listed their top ten volunteer opportunities.  Here are just a five exciting projects that might help you travel for free:

1. Appalachian Trail Conference.  This U.S.-based organization attracts volunteers from around the globe to build and maintain the Appalachian Trail to preserve the environment and endangered species.  The organization does pay for food and basic accommodation for its recruits, and can be a valuable way to explore nature at its best.
2. United Nations Volunteer program.  The UN offers several positions for volunteers who want to experience an extended stay abroad; they work with projects in health care, economic development and education in thousands of third world countries around the globe.
3. Conservation Volunteerism in New Zealand.  If you’re an active environmentalist, the Conservation Volunteerism organization in Australia and New Zealand is the place to promote eco tourism, work with teams to protect and clean up area habitats – and have meals and lodging taken care of.
4. Willing Workers on Organic Farms.  Organic farms around the world are searching for volunteers who will work on farms in exchange for food and lodging.  These opportunities are suitable for adults and teens who want to live and work in a completely new environment.
5. Sudan Volunteer Programme.  If you want to flex your teaching skills, you can teach English at schools and universities in Sudan, a country that is always looking for skilled teachers and volunteers to help with various community efforts.  Volunteers are provided with a monthly stipend, food and lodging, but are responsible for their own airfare.