A big concern for employers is consistency. When they come across a resume which has a large employment gap it can often send up a red flag. You do not want to appear lazy. Looking for some quick cash so you can quit. No thanks. You also do not want them to think you are always trying to suck the disability factor out of a job either. So here is what you do. Simply explain to them that you needed time off to travel while you were still young and had the opportunity. Another good reason that works well for females is that you wanted to take some time off to raise your kids before they started school. Of course because you knew once they started school you would have to go back to work full-time, PERMANENTLY. (even if it's not true-they like the sound of that).

However if you are a male, the travel statement would be more saavy for you. You never say things like I tried to find work but it was scarce or there were no opportunities in my field open at the time. That makes you sound selective and not easily conformed to change. A true go-getter or money driven self starter will often try several methods to gain capital. That's what companies want. Be smart, for example, before I got married I left for 6 months to travel with my fiance. Did I go to Bora Bora? No. We drove across the United States and back twice. We wanted to see the country. We don't choose places we have never been. It will hurt you in the interview. A severe family illness usually will not hurt you either as long as it is beleiveable. Say perhaps your father had a stroke and your mother needed help taking care of him until she could hire a caregiver. Since they live out of state you had to relocate temporarily.

I hope this advice was all helpful. Remember it may not all be honest but then again what employer is. . . if you are a true competitor then beat them at their own game. Just take your time, you don't want them to feel like your stealing their job or anything. Good Luck.