Flying to USA on J1 Visa. How to prove intent to return home. .

[Smashedavacado]

Have been advised to post here due to number of young people flying from Ireland to USA on J1 Visa.
DS flying (from UK) to USA for summer camp.
He graduated last summer so no uni course to return to. Just finished 6 months job. No commitments here to return to.
Thinking of flying to Costa Rica afterwards but no fixed plans.
The issue is proving "intent to return home" at visa interview.
Anyone had similar experience.
I have read that a student loan commitment can help but not sure why - no hurry to start repayments!

A return ticket ? The cheapest flexible one?

Return ticket and I would also suggest a letter from you stating that you have a home for him here in the U.K. and are looking forward to him returning home in 6 months time.

They can look in his bags so make sure he packs normal holiday stuff not family photos and keepsakes.

Sorry ignore my 6 month comment, misread, but yes, showing he has a home to go back to is important.

Thanks for the suggestions. The return ticket suggestion is good for point of entry but he has been advised by many people not to buy his ticket before the visa is awarded.
As for baggage. - DS doesn't place much value on belongings. He would travel on a small backpack whether going for a fortnight or a year!
I think going down the letter outlining plans is probably the best option.

Apply for a masters /other course for September start and show the acceptance?

Doesn't the embassy website or visa site have any examples of what evidence they need?

Any sports / volunteer group that could confirm participation and looking forward to having him back?

@Carriemac

Apply for a masters /other course for September start and show the acceptance?

This is what I did many moons ago. Applied for post grad and got letter from uni to confirm it. Best of luck to your DS!