Choosing the Right Route: Tips for Picking Your Perfect World Race Journey

Embarking on a World Race journey is a life-changing decision that will shape your spiritual growth, challenge your perspective, and ignite your passion for God’s mission around the world. But with a variety of routes to choose from – ranging in duration, destinations, and experiences – how do you pick the one that’s right for you?

Here are some tips to help you choose the World Race route that best aligns with your passions, skills, and spiritual goals.

1. Consider Your Stage in Life

The World Race offers routes tailored to different stages of life, so it’s important to consider where you are right now.

Gap Year Routes (9 months): Perfect for recent high school graduates (ages 18-20), these routes provide an immersive experience over nine months, typically covering three to four different countries. A Gap Year route offers a powerful transition between high school and your next steps, whether that’s college, work, or something else. During this time, you’ll build a strong foundation of faith, develop lasting friendships, and discover more about who God created you to be. The cost for a 9-month Gap Year trip in 2025 is around $19,000.

Semesters Routes (1-4 months): If you’re a college student or young professional, you might be drawn to a shorter route that fits into your summer break or a gap semester. These routes last 1-4 months and often focus on one or two countries. They’re an excellent option if you’re looking to dive deep into one specific culture and ministry without committing to a full year. For example, a two-month trip to one country in 2025 might cost $3,500, making it a more accessible option for those with limited time or resources.

Expedition Routes (11 months): For those ready to fully immerse themselves in global missions, the 11-month Expedition routes offer the most comprehensive experience. Ideal for individuals aged 21-30, these routes take you to six or more countries, providing a diverse and intense journey of faith and service. The cost for an 11-month Expedition trip in 2025 is approximately $19,850, reflecting the extensive nature of the journey and the variety of experiences you’ll encounter.

2. Align Your Passions and Skills with the Mission

Each World Race route focuses on different types of ministry and outreach, so think about what excites you and where you feel called to serve.

Evangelism and Discipleship: If you’re passionate about sharing the Gospel and helping others grow in their faith, look for routes that emphasize evangelism and discipleship. Many routes in Southeast Asia or Eastern Europe, for example, focus on building relationships and leading Bible studies.

Community Development and Humanitarian Work: If you have skills in education, healthcare, or social work, you might want to choose a route that focuses on community development. Routes in Africa or Central America often involve working in schools, clinics, and orphanages, where you can make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

Justice and Anti-Trafficking: For those with a heart for justice, routes that focus on combatting human trafficking and supporting vulnerable populations might be a perfect fit. For instance, some routes in Thailand and Southeast Asia partner with organizations that rescue and rehabilitate victims of trafficking, providing them with hope and a new beginning.

3. Practical Considerations: Cost, Timing, and Commitment

While the spiritual and emotional aspects of choosing a route are vital, practical considerations also play an important role.

Cost: The cost of each route varies depending on the length of the trip and the number of countries you’ll visit. For example, a two-month trip to one country may cost $3,500, while a nine-month Gap Year route to four countries costs around $19,000. It’s important to consider your financial situation and how you plan to fundraise or save for your trip.

Timing: Consider when you’re available to leave and how much time you can commit. World Race offers launch windows in August, January, and summer, giving you flexibility in choosing a route that fits your schedule.

Commitment: Reflect on how long you’re ready to be away from home and what level of commitment you’re willing to make. An 11-month Expedition is a big commitment, both emotionally and spiritually, while a shorter Semester route offers a taste of missions without the long-term obligation.

4. Seek God’s Guidance

Ultimately, the most important step in choosing your World Race route is to seek God’s guidance. Spend time in prayer, ask for wisdom, and listen to where the Holy Spirit is leading you. God knows your heart, your passions, and the plans He has for you. Trust that He will guide you to the route that will grow you, challenge you, and help you fulfill your purpose.

5. Learn from Past Racers’ Experiences

Hearing from those who have gone before you can provide valuable insight into what to expect on the World Race. For example, one Racer who chose a Gap Year route shared that the experience of living in multiple countries helped them understand their calling and solidify their faith before heading off to college. Another Racer on an 11-month Expedition route spoke of the deep spiritual growth and life-long friendships they gained through the intense, multi-country journey.

Each Racer’s journey is unique, but the common thread is that every route offers profound opportunities for growth, service, and discovery.

Choosing the right World Race route is a personal and spiritual decision that will shape your journey with God in powerful ways. By considering your stage in life, aligning your passions and skills with the mission, weighing practical considerations, seeking God’s guidance, and learning from past experiences, you’ll be equipped to pick the route that’s perfect for you. Whether you’re just starting your journey of faith or ready to dive deeper into global missions, there’s a World Race route waiting for you to discover more about God, yourself, and the world He’s called you to serve.