Eager to explore the globe while also earning some cash? There are many creative ways to make money while traveling. Here are eight fantastic options to consider!
1. Keep Your Current Job Remotely
One of the simplest approaches is to stay with your current employer and work remotely! Think through your situation, jot down any concerns, and brainstorm solutions. Initiate a conversation with your supervisor about potential arrangements. Start with shorter trips of a few weeks, and offer to return occasionally for significant meetings or events. You can also look into programs like Remote Year remoteyear.com or Wifi Tribe wifitribe.co, which connect remote workers in a community traveling together. Though these programs can be pricey, they come with great advantages. (They might be out of my budget, but perhaps not yours!)
I currently teach online for Texas State University, where I previously taught in person. I created a course named Freelancing for Media Professionals, which has been incredibly fulfilling because I'm passionate about the subject and want to prepare students for life post-graduation! While this course demands significant effort, the rewards are worth it!
2. Become a Tour Guide
Leading photo trips for high school students in Asia for five summers was one of my favorite jobs. I also led similar trips in Yellowstone National Park and Prague for National Geographic Student Expeditions in the past two summers. I enjoy teaching others about travel and photography.
If you're interested in similar roles, look for companies that offer tours aligned with your interests, like yoga, hiking, or marine biology. If you move to a new location, consider creating your own unique tours on platforms like Airbnb Experiences. (My friends recently hosted a coffee tour in Buenos Aires!)
These jobs typically cover travel expenses, significantly lowering your living costs since food and lodging are included. This is how I managed to travel extensively on a limited budget.
3. Obtain a Working Holiday Visa
If you're under 30, Working Holiday visas provide an excellent opportunity to live and work abroad! I spent nearly a year in Australia on such a visa, which I discuss here. These visas allow those aged 18-30 to work while traveling. I took on a few random bar roles and even photographed bands for Rolling Stone, which was quite an adventure!
Australia and New Zealand offer one-year visas for Americans and other nationalities aged 18-30, permitting work anywhere. The visa fees are approximately $320 and $165, respectively, depending on the exchange rate when you apply.
For students or recent graduates, similar visa options exist in South Korea ($45 USD), Canada ($200 USD), Singapore ($150 USD), and Ireland ($300 USD), to be utilized within a year of graduation. Check out GoOverseas.com for a useful guide on Working Holiday programs for Americans. For further details, refer to my Working Abroad post!
4. Teach English Abroad
Teaching English can be an excellent way to live abroad and finance your travels. I briefly taught in Thailand and considered similar opportunities in Korea and Japan. Most programs prefer a Bachelor's degree, and it's often better not to speak the local language. While TEFL or TESOL certifications are not mandatory, they can enhance your salary prospects. (I don't have either certification myself; private schools typically require it.) The highest-paying positions are found in Japan and Korea. Employers usually provide visas.
Well-established programs offer extensive training, but you may need to be adaptable. Note that many programs don't adhere to traditional American or British school holiday schedules (e.g., no Christmas break). For more insights, check my Working Abroad and my interview with an English teacher in Korea.
5. Travel Nursing & Healthcare Opportunities
If you're a nurse, doctor, or another healthcare professional, consider short-term positions across the U.S. and internationally. The pay can be significantly higher in remote locations (specialty units often command better rates, such as ICUs). For instance, jobs in the Middle East can yield two to three times the usual salaries and may be tax-free.
For positions in the U.S., substantial earnings come from housing and food stipends. Both are tax-free if you're a certain distance from your home. Many travel nurses recommend securing your own accommodation to maximize these stipends instead of using agency-provided housing. Planning ahead is crucial for travel nursing, as paperwork can be time-consuming. For more guidance, look into nursing blogs or consult colleagues who have experience. (In my next post, I'll be interviewing a travel nurse based in the Middle East!)
6. Employment on Cruise Ships
I know several friends who are photography instructors on cruise ships, allowing them to travel for free while earning a salary. Even if you're not a photographer, you can find a position that aligns with your skills on a ship. Even my doctor once mentioned regretting not taking a job as a ship's doctor! Check AllCruiseJobs.com for available positions or directly apply to cruise lines. I recently began working as a photo instructor for Lindblad/National Geographic Expeditions! The best part is the minimal expenses during work hours since meals are included!
7. Rent Your Home or House/Pet Sit
If you plan to be away for an extended period, consider renting out your home to cover travel expenses. (I don't believe in paying rent for a space I'm not occupying!) Ask a friend or family member to manage it while you're gone. It's simpler than you might think! Platforms like HomeAway or Airbnb are excellent choices. I've met individuals who manage investment properties and spend most of the year abroad since they only need internet access to work!
Another fantastic alternative is to house and pet sit. While some opportunities offer compensation, others simply provide free lodging. Various websites connect homeowners with sitters, most charging an annual fee to access their services: TrustedHousesitters.com and MindMyHouse.com.
8. Explore Work Exchange Programs
Work exchange programs offer a chance to volunteer in return for accommodation and meals. Many organizations connect hosts with volunteers. Opportunities can range from a few days to several months, with no age restrictions, and families with children can also participate. I've encountered many travelers who have utilized the following programs to fund their trips or offset costs.
- WorkAway offers diverse options, including roles in schools, cafes, hostels, and farms. Membership is $38 USD per year. (I've stayed at some incredible hostels managed by WorkAway teams in Argentina!)(workaway.info)
- HelpX is an alternative to WorkAway, providing positions at hostels, ranches, and more. Signing up is free, but a two-year premium membership costs 20 Euros. (helpx.net)
Why Not Photography or Travel Writing?
While a significant portion of my income comes from photography and travel writing, I don't view these as short-term income sources due to their time-intensive nature. I spent years building connections with publications I frequently collaborate with. This requires persistent self-promotion and dedication. You need to research publications that align with your style and reach out to inquire about their needs for photographers and writers. Few publications will cover your travel expenses these days. After you pitch an idea, it may take months to see publication and receive payment. If this path intrigues you, start reaching out to publications well before your journey. Always ask about their compensation. It's not worthwhile to write a 600-word piece for $50!
Now that I've shared numerous options, I expect you to take action and start discovering the world! No more excuses!
For my complete list of 22 Ways to Make Money While Traveling and an extensive guide to teaching English, refer to my book, Good With Money: Prioritizing Spending, Maximizing Savings, and Traveling More, available on Amazon. For more about Working Abroad, check out this blog post!
