Maybe you dream of visiting new and exciting places but the cost makes indulging your wanderlust seem impossible. The good news is, whatever your experience or interests, there are lots of ways to balance your financial needs with your desire for adventure. This article will show you how to make money on the road so you can turn those dreams into reality.
7 Ways to Earn a Living While Traveling
Whether your idea of travel is a single trip or living full time in a van or RV, you’ll need some kind of income to fund your exploration. When deciding how and where you will work, factors like your destination, the time of year, and the length of your stay can guide you toward a solution. Here are a few options to consider if you’ve been curious about how to make money while traveling:
Work Remotely
In recent years, more workplaces have gone digital with their operations. Because employees are able to complete many tasks online, some companies now give their staff the flexibility to work outside of a typical office environment. This gives people the freedom to do their job just about anywhere in the world where there’s an internet connection causing a rise in telecommuting.
If your employer allows remote work, you may be able to keep your current job while you travel. Others should be able to find new opportunities by searching job boards. Careers in information technology, sales, writing, and even healthcare allow for opportunity to work remote. Depending on your field, you could also freelance, picking up assignments as you like on your own schedule. Amazon and Uber have made delivery jobs a growing source of this kind of freelance work.
Get a Travel-Based Job
Perhaps you’d prefer a position that not only pays a salary but also covers your transportation. There are many travel-based jobs that allow you to earn money while seeing the world. Consider looking for a role with an airline or aboard a cruise ship. These businesses need people to serve others as flight attendants, food service workers, massage therapists, and event coordinators.
Many traditional jobs also require frequent travel, either to different branches within the company or to their customers’ locations. This kind of opportunity gives you the chance to visit many interesting places at your employer’s expense rather than your own.
Work Seasonally
Some industries require more help during different times of the year. There are several ways you might use this to your advantage. You could decide to get a job as a way of saving up to take a trip at a later time or you can plan your route around where work might be most available that season.
For example, if you want to go to Europe, take a job during the holidays at a retail store to earn extra money towards your trip. Or, if you like to ski, think about heading to Colorado in the winter to work at a resort during their busy tourist season. Whichever way you choose to approach things, seasonal jobs can free up larger blocks of time to visit places you’d like to see.
Lots of different businesses hire seasonal help, so use your imagination when looking for ideas about where to apply. If you enjoy the outdoors, try to find a spot at a national park or garden center. Theme parks and swimming pools will likely have openings to fill during the summer months as well.
Transfer Your Career Overseas
If international travel is what interests you most, put your skills to work in another country. Some jobs, like being a teacher or au pair, include room and board as well as a salary. You may also be able to find work as an interpreter, yoga instructor, or travel guide short-term to help pay for your next trip.
See if you can find a company to apply at in a location that you’d like to visit. Before you meet with potential employers, learn as much of the culture and language as you can, review your resume, and practice answering common questions. Also be sure to research local interview and hiring customs to avoid accidentally offending others.
Volunteer
Although volunteer opportunities are unpaid, they are an excellent way to learn new things and boost your resume while seeing all the world has to offer. They also give you a chance to give back and have a positive impact on the lives of others. Additionally, sometimes these positions lead to connections that can help you find a paying job or gain experience in a different field.
Consider a Work Exchange
Work exchange programs allow you to trade your skills and labor for room and board. This type of arrangement gives you the security of knowing you will have a way to meet your basic needs before setting out on your journey. These jobs are a great way to experience an area more like a local and meet new and interesting people.
There are many organizations that can help you find work exchange opportunities that match your skills and passions. Those interested in sustainable agriculture might enjoy Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF), while other outdoor enthusiasts may want to try Workamping. You could also get a job at one of many hostels wherever you decide to go through websites like WorldPackers.
Look for a Job at Your Destination
Sometimes, waiting until you arrive at your dream location to look for work will give you the most flexibility. This way you can tailor your search to match how long you will be in the area. If you expect your visit will be short, you might get by with a few odd jobs you find on sites like Craigslist or freelance gigs. For a longer stay, you will likely want something that will provide a more consistent income.
Enjoy the Journey
If you really want to experience all the beauty and excitement world has to offer, you may need to step outside of your comfort zone when it comes to earning money. Apply your creativity and sense of curiosity to your job search. Not only will you get to visit new places, but finding a way to pay for your travels might be its own adventure, leading to other amazing experiences you never expected.
