How to Make Money While Traveling

How to Make Money While Traveling

Do you dream of traveling the world in search of adventure, unique cultures and new friends? I did once, too!

At a certain time in my life, the cost of doing so seemed unattainable, especially for an extended trip. Some people choose to delay their trip until they’ve saved enough money for travel, but there is another way.

It’s easier than ever before to find travel jobs in foreign countries or to work online. You might even make enough from the jobs below to travel forever!

1. Online Freelancing

Working as an online freelancer is one of the best ways to earn money while traveling. Reputable websites such as Freelancer, Upwork, and Fiver make it easy to find freelancing work, from graphic design gigs to administration tasks.

One of the best things about this type of work is that payments are usually made in the three most significant currencies in the world: USD, EUR, and GBP, making it easy to earn the currency you want, no matter where you are.

2. Language Tutoring

The ability to teach English is highly sought after, and there is a high demand for anyone who can teach the language to non-native speakers. Many countries offer opportunities to earn a wage as an English teacher or tutor. Alternatively, websites allow you to teach online, which means you can teach from anywhere in the world.

3. Photography and Videography

Travelers who can capture the perfect moment on film or produce high-quality videos can sell their content to stock websites like Shutterstock or Etsy. These sites will pay either a one-off amount or a royalty each time somebody downloads your content, enabling you to get paid for capturing the best moments from your travels.

4. Start a Dropshipping or Print-on-Demand Service

Creating an online dropshipping or print-on-demand store is possible regardless of where you are. Dropshipping involves finding products others manufacture and offering them through your online store (at a markup), while print-on-demand requires almost no effort on your part.

Platforms like Printify allow you to create unique designs, many of which could be based on your travels. Once an order is placed, your POD partner will manufacture and deliver your items while you receive the profits.

5. Try Your Luck

Although many may see it as risky, one way to earn money while traveling is to gamble. Friendly games with other travelers at the hostel or local casinos could lead to a range of windfalls. If you’re not staying at hostels or visiting areas with physical casinos, many reputable online casinos let you play any time of the day.

6. Seasonal Jobs

Depending on where your travels take you, you may find yourself in an area with abundant seasonal work. From picking fruit to selling items at a Christmas market to being an activity leader at a summer camp, seasonal jobs require plenty of additional hands to get the job done. Many sites, like Season Workers, can help you find these jobs.

7. Bartending

Bartending is one of the most common types of work available in almost every country you might want to visit. The job involves working at bars, pouring drinks and looking after customers. This job may be perfect for you if you are a hard worker, and could earn you ample enough spending money to enjoy your travels or even stay longer than you initially planned. I traveled the world for many years working as a bartender!

8. Start a Travel Blog

Starting a travel blog is a simple way to share your experiences with friends and family and stay connected while traveling. You may even gain enough experience to offer valuable guidance to others wishing to explore the world. If your blog attracts enough readers or viewers, you could soon be approached for advertising opportunities, which can help boost your income.

9. Street Performances/Busking

While doing a live musical, dance, dramatic, or comedic performance on the side of a street may seem daunting, it could bring in some quick cash. Busking is a great way to showcase your talents to a new audience and earn a few bucks in the process. Before you start, be sure to research the laws and regulations of the area you plan on performing. Most places require a permit, and you don’t want to run afoul of the authorities. However, with some creativity and a bit of practice, you may become the next street performer sensation.

10. Virtual Assistant

As a virtual assistant, you will help clients with administrative tasks such as answering emails, scheduling appointments, and managing social media accounts. This is an excellent job for people who enjoy organization, communication, and working remotely.

Virtual assistant work can be found on websites like Upwork and Freelancer, but you can also advertise your services on social media or create a website to attract potential clients. The best part about being a virtual assistant is that you can work from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a reliable internet connection.

11. House Sitting/Pet Sitting

House sitting or pet sitting is a great way to save money on accommodation while you travel. You’ll get to stay in someone’s home for free while they’re away and take care of their pets or plants. Websites like TrustedHousesitters and MindMyHouse will help you find house-sitting opportunities around the world. While some may require previous experience or references, others may be open to anyone who is reliable and trustworthy.

12. Tour Guide

If you know a particular area well, becoming a tour guide may be a great way to earn money and share your knowledge with others. You could lead walking tours, bus tours, or even bike tours, depending on the area and your expertise. To become a tour guide, you’ll need to research the requirements for your area. Some places may require licensing or certification, while others may only require that you have a passion for sharing your knowledge.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many ways to earn money while traveling the world. Whether you choose to work online as a freelancer or virtual assistant, teach English as a foreign language, or find seasonal work, there are plenty of opportunities out there. By being resourceful and creative, you can fund your travels and keep the adventure going. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy your journey and create unforgettable memories along the way.

About the Author

Jeremy Scott Foster

Jeremy Scott Foster is an adventure-junkie, gear expert and travel photographer based in Southern California. Previously nomadic, he’s been to ~50 countries and loves spending time outdoors. You can usually find him on the trail, on the road, jumping from bridges or hustling on his laptop working to produce the best travel and outdoors content today.
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