“As we look ahead to 2026, we are seeing a powerful shift in the way people choose to travel, predominantly in the growing appetite for ‘skillcations’ where programmes enable travellers to learn a new or enhance an existing skill.
“Travellers, especially Gen Z, are choosing adventures that provide both personal and professional development, discovery, and cultural experiences to better their global understanding.
“From short-term holidays like yoga retreats, volunteering, and surf camps to long-term working holiday experiences such as a ski season job or living out a childhood dream at a US summer camp, travel is no longer just about relaxing but also about levelling up.
“So far in 2025 we have placed 40% more young people in Canada working holiday jobs vs 2024, clearly highlighting this growth in appetite for skillcations.
“After all, what could be more refreshing than the sense of accomplishment that comes with having visited an exciting new destination all the while enhancing your CV?”
Kristian’s top skillcations listed below:
- Summer like Hallie and Annie
From coaching sports to teaching crafts, turn your passion into a paid job for a summer at camp in the US. You’ll get to live in incredible locations, make friends from all over the world, and get the warm and fuzzies from knowing you’re doing a job that matters. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to finally try Oreos and peanut butter. - A ski season but not like you know it
Home to ancient Shinto shrines, powder-covered peaks and off-the-wall cities – Japan is like nowhere else on Earth. If you’re looking to earn money and get overseas work experience while immersing yourself in a culture that’s completely different to your own – but with the security of an English-speaking job – then Japan is the working holiday for you. - Have more time on your hands?
Home to giant-carved landscapes, laid-back surf beaches and artsy cities, Aeoteroa (New Zealand) is a show stealer. New Zealanders belong to one of the proudest nations in the world – fiercely protective over their environment, their Māori culture and their beloved rugby team. Inventors of the phrase ‘too easy’, they’re also some of the friendliest to working holidaymakers – making it an all-round win for travellers wanting to build real ‘home away from home’ connections on their working holiday. With plenty of un-contracted work that offers flexibility to travel, New Zealand offers something to suit every type of traveller including roles in hospitality, tourism, ski resorts, retail, labouring and even fruit picking on farms and vineyards.
For more information, visit: www.jenza.com
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For further press information, please contact:
Cait Lesko | Sarah Geppert | Elsa Findlay
Rooster.
T: +44 (0)203 440 8930
E: [email protected]
About The JENZA Travel Group:
The JENZA Travel Group consists of Summer Camp USA brand, BUNAC, Irish work and travel brand, USIT, Canadian work and travel brand, SWAP, and B Corp™ certified youth-led work and travel brand, JENZA.
The JENZA Travel Group has been creating life-shaping adventures for students, grads and 18-30s for 60+ years.
To check out the experiences offered, visit: www.jenza.com
About JENZA:
JENZA exists so that young people never have to choose between getting a job or going travelling. The working holiday and intern abroad experts – earn and explore in Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, the USA and UK.
In June 2025 JENZA received B Corporation™ certification – joining a global community of businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental impact.
For more information, visit: www.jenza.com
