gapadvice.org: Independent advice on gap years, for people of all ages

If you are travelling with a company, you should expect them to provide full preparation prior to your departure.  If you are making your own arrangements, or feel that you would like additional assistance to that provided by the company with which you are travelling, you may wish to attend a course offered by  companies running specific travel safety courses: see 'Before You Go' courses for more information. 

Look at the Foregn and Commonwealth Office site http://www.gogapyear.com/ for handy hints and travel tips for gap year travellers.  10 good tips are:

• Get insurance

UK Embassies overseas: You and your family/friends need to know how to contact UK Embassies/High Commissions overseas.  See http://www.fco.gov.uk for all addresses and contacts.