Everyday Challenges Volunteers Face Abroad (and How to Overcome Them)

Volunteering abroad is one of the most rewarding adventures you can take. You get to live in a new culture, contribute to meaningful projects, and grow as a person in ways you never imagined. But let’s be real—it’s not all smooth sailing.

While glossy Instagram photos might show smiling faces and picture-perfect beaches, the reality is that volunteering abroad comes with everyday challenges. These challenges aren’t meant to scare you off—they’re part of the journey. And the good news? Each one comes with a solution, and often, overcoming them becomes one of the most memorable and transformative parts of your experience.

In this post, we’ll break down the most common challenges volunteers face overseas and share practical tips on how to handle them like a pro.

1. Culture Shock

The challenge:
Arriving in a new country can feel overwhelming. Different languages, customs, food, and even daily routines may feel strange or even uncomfortable at first. You might be used to certain conveniences back home—Wi-Fi everywhere, hot showers, fast public transport—but suddenly find yourself in an environment where things move at a different pace.

How to overcome it:

• Do your research before you go. Learn about the local culture, traditions, and etiquette so you’re prepared.
• Keep an open mind. Instead of comparing everything to home, embrace the differences.
• Give yourself time. Culture shock usually eases as you settle in and find your rhythm.
• Ask questions. Locals are often happy to explain traditions or help you understand why things are done a certain way.

Remember: culture shock is normal. It’s not a sign you’re failing—it’s a sign you’re learning.

2. Language Barriers

The challenge:
Not speaking the local language can make even simple tasks—like buying food, catching a bus, or giving directions—feel like a mission. It can also make you feel isolated at first, especially when you can’t fully express yourself.

How to overcome it:

• Learn basic phrases. Even a handful of words like “hello,” “thank you,” and “how are you?” go a long way.
• Use body language. Gestures, smiles, and pointing can communicate more than you think.
• Download translation apps. Tools like Google Translate are lifesavers.
• Be patient (and laugh at mistakes). Misunderstandings happen—embrace them with humour.

Over time, you’ll surprise yourself with how quickly you pick up the language when you’re immersed in it daily.

3. Homesickness

The challenge:
Being away from family, friends, and familiar comforts can be tough—especially during long placements. Holidays, birthdays, or even just seeing social media updates from home can trigger a pang of loneliness.

How to overcome it:

• Stay connected. Schedule regular calls with loved ones, but don’t spend all your time online.
• Create new routines. Building familiarity in your new environment helps reduce homesickness.
• Stay busy. Get involved in your project, explore the area, or join local activities.
• Talk about it. Chances are, other volunteers are feeling the same way.

Homesickness usually comes in waves—it passes quicker than you think once you start feeling settled.

4. Limited Resources

The challenge:
Many volunteer placements take place in developing regions, where resources like electricity, running water, medical supplies, or school materials are limited. This can be frustrating if you’re used to having everything at your fingertips.

How to overcome it:

• Be adaptable. Learn to do more with less—creativity is your best friend.
• Appreciate simplicity. Often, locals thrive with fewer resources, and you’ll learn to admire their resilience.
• Bring supplies if possible. For example, school materials, games, or teaching aids can make a huge difference.
• Focus on impact, not perfection. What matters most is your effort and connection, not fancy equipment.

You’ll quickly discover that resourcefulness is a valuable skill you’ll carry home with you.

5. Different Working Styles

The challenge:
Work environments abroad may not be as structured or fast-paced as what you’re used to. Schedules may change at the last minute, things may not always be “organized,” and flexibility is key.

How to overcome it:

• Adjust expectations. Remember you’re there to support, not control.
• Be patient. Embrace the local pace—often referred to as “island time” or “Africa time.”
• Communicate clearly. If you’re unsure about tasks, ask politely for clarification.
• Stay positive. Use downtime productively—bond with locals, practice the language, or brainstorm creative project ideas.

This experience will teach you to adapt to different leadership styles and work environments—something that’s invaluable in life and work.

6. Food and Diet Adjustments

The challenge:
Food abroad may be very different from what you’re used to, and sometimes your options are limited. Spicy meals, unusual ingredients, or repetitive diets (like rice every day) can take some adjusting.

How to overcome it:

• Try everything once. You might discover new favourites.
• Pack snacks from home. A stash of granola bars or peanut butter can be comforting.
• Communicate dietary needs. If you’re vegetarian, vegan, or have allergies, let your host know in advance.
• Embrace local cooking. Ask to join in meal prep—it’s a fun cultural exchange.

Adapting to new food is part of the adventure, and it often becomes one of the best memories.

7. Health Concerns

The challenge:
New climates, different hygiene standards, or exposure to tropical diseases can cause health worries. Volunteers sometimes face stomach upsets, mosquito bites, or minor illnesses.

How to overcome it:

• Get travel insurance. Don’t leave home without it.
• Stay up-to-date on vaccines. Check requirements before your trip.
• Practice good hygiene. Wash hands regularly and use bottled or filtered water where needed.
• Pack a basic medical kit. Include essentials like painkillers, band-aids, and rehydration salts.
• Listen to your body. Rest when you need to—don’t push too hard.

Most health hiccups are minor, and local staff are usually experienced in helping volunteers through them.

8. Safety Concerns

The challenge:
Being in an unfamiliar environment can raise safety worries—navigating new areas, avoiding scams, or simply adjusting to different rules of the road.

How to overcome it:

• Follow local advice. Your hosts know best about safe areas and practices.
• Blend in. Avoid flashy clothing or valuables that make you stand out.
• Travel in groups. Especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
• Keep copies of documents. Passports, visas, and emergency contacts should be backed up.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation.

With common sense and awareness, volunteering abroad is generally very safe.

9. Emotional Ups and Downs

The challenge:
Volunteering can be emotionally intense. You may encounter poverty, environmental degradation, or community challenges that tug at your heart. Balancing your emotions while trying to help can feel overwhelming.

How to overcome it:

• Acknowledge your feelings. It’s normal to feel sad, frustrated, or even helpless at times.
• Focus on what you can do. Small contributions still matter.
• Talk with others. Sharing emotions with fellow volunteers helps lighten the load.
• Practice self-care. Take time for yourself—read, journal, or explore quietly.

Remember, you’re not there to “fix everything.” You’re part of a long-term effort, and even small actions have value.

10. Group Living and Dynamics

The challenge:
Many volunteers live in shared accommodation with other volunteers. While this can be fun, it also means adjusting to different personalities, habits, and routines.

How to overcome it:

• Respect personal space. Even in shared rooms, everyone needs downtime.
• Communicate openly. If issues arise, talk calmly rather than letting tension build.
• Be flexible. Not everyone will share your habits or preferences—learn to compromise.
• Celebrate diversity. You’ll meet people from all over the world—embrace the chance to learn from them.

Living with others can be challenging, but it often leads to lifelong friendships.

11. Environmental and Climate Differences

The challenge:
From humid jungles to dusty savannas, climates abroad can be extreme compared to what you’re used to. Heat, humidity, rain, or cold can affect your energy levels and comfort.

How to overcome it:

• Pack smart. Lightweight, breathable clothes for hot climates, or layers for cooler ones.
• Stay hydrated. Especially in tropical regions.
• Protect yourself. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and hats are essentials.
• Listen to your body. Rest and pace yourself.

Over time, your body adapts—and you’ll even come to love the unique rhythm of your new environment.

12. The “What Am I Really Achieving?” Question

The challenge:
At some point, many volunteers ask themselves if they’re truly making a difference. The problems may seem so big that your efforts feel small.

How to overcome it:

• Remember the ripple effect. One smile, one lesson, or one planted tree can spark lasting change.
• Focus on the present. You may not solve global issues, but you can brighten one child’s day or support one project.
• Trust the process. Most programs are designed to support long-term community goals—you’re part of a bigger picture.
• Reflect. Keep a journal of your daily contributions to remind yourself of the little wins.

Volunteering abroad isn’t about changing the world overnight—it’s about being part of ongoing positive change.

Conclusion

Volunteering abroad is not a perfectly polished experience. It’s real, raw, and sometimes messy—but that’s exactly what makes it so powerful. The challenges you face aren’t roadblocks—they’re stepping stones. Each difficulty teaches resilience, adaptability, empathy, and gratitude.

By preparing for the everyday challenges and knowing how to overcome them, you’ll not only make your experience more rewarding, but you’ll also return home stronger, wiser, and more connected to the world than ever before.

So, if you’re considering volunteering abroad, embrace the adventure with open arms. The bumps in the road aren’t setbacks—they’re the very things that make your journey unforgettable.

Start your volunteer journey with IVI.