Traveling the world while on a budget is the most daunting challenge of every traveler. Most people are usually wondering how they can travel for as long as possible. Normally, people think they must have a large chunk of cash in their savings account in order to make their trips a life and dream happen, whereas in reality, that is not the case.
I am happy to tell you that due to the flexibility of remote work, gig economy jobs, and lots of more opportunity for everyone to work flexibility, it is now far easier to find a way to earn money while exploring the world. These opportunities have resulted in the possibility to work and travel simultaneously without worrying about savings draining away at your bank account.
In this post, we’ll look at some of the best jobs for travelers that can help you travel across the world at little cost to you. From freelance gigs to teaching English as a foreign language abroad–we’ll breakdown some of the best options that allow you to work from almost anywhere. And, if you’re looking to be longer-term in one destination or just earn enough money for your backpacking trips around the world, you’re in luck! There are plenty of jobs for travelers that allow you to travel and earn as you go. Let’s take a look at some of the best travel jobs that allow you to feed your wanderlust without going broke.
1. Freelance Work
Freelancing is one of the best jobs for travelers to earn money while traveling. Freelancing provides the opportunity to work from practically anywhere, whether that’s in a cafe in Paris or on the beach in Bali. If you have a skill such as writing, graphic design, web development, etc., then you’re fortunate, because there is a long list of freelance services that employers all around the world are looking for.
How to get started:
- Create a Portfolio: You can create a portfolio of your work on sites like Behance (if design related) or you can showcase work on LinkedIn, to show what you can do and convince people to work with you.
- Use Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer pair freelancers with clients that need these services.
- Set your price: Research what others in your category are charging, making sure your prices are competitive, but affordable for your lifestyle. This kind of freelance work makes it one of the most flexible jobs for travelers out there today.
If you’re thinking about long-term travel and how to manage your budget, check out this guide on how to travel Southeast Asia on a budget.
Pro’s of freelancing while travelling:
- Flexibility to work anywhere
- Ability to earn high wages if you have an in-demand service
- Work with clients all over the world
2. Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
Teaching English abroad is a fantastic job for travelers! Countries around the world, but especially in Asia, Europe, and Latin America, have a great need for English teachers. You can find jobs in schools, language institutes or even online, with much better salaries if you have a TEFL certificate! Before diving into TEFL certification, take a look at this official guide by International TEFL Academy.
How to Get Started:
- Get Certified: Having a TEFL/TESOL certification will most certainly enhance your chances of getting a teaching job.
- Find Teaching Job Listings: Job sites with teaching listings worldwide include: TeachAway, Dave’s ESL Café, GoAbroad.
- Apply Before Traveling: Most people are not interested in looking for a teaching job after arriving at their destination. However, applying for the job before you arrive is commonly a more safe option.
Pros to Teaching English:
- Security and pay!
- You get to live and work in foreign countries!
- There may be free housing, and a travel allowance!
3. Working in Hostels
Hostel gigs are perfect jobs for travelers looking for free accommodation and social interaction. However, did you know that many hostels offer some form of work exchange program? Generally speaking, you will work a few hours a day in exchange for your accommodation. The most common tasks are hospitality duties, reception type work and event organizing. This is a great way to really stretch a travel budget while meeting other travelers along the way!
How to get started:
- Do some researches on work exchange programs: Websites like Workaway and WWOOF help connect travelers with hosts who provide accommodation in exchange for work, similar to a work exchange type of situation.
- Apply directly to hostels: Many hostels may offer work-exchange programs from their website, but don’t be afraid to send them an email about work opportunities.
- Be flexible: Work-exchange opportunities may vary and include everything from housekeeping to bartending, so be open to new experiences!
Pros of working at hostels:
- Free accommodation, and sometimes free meals
- The chance to meet other travelers/utilize travel networks
- A great way to gain greater insight into local culture especially for those seeking meaningful jobs for travelers
4. Remote Customer Support or Virtual Assistant Jobs
For those who enjoy communication and organization, remote customer support roles are fantastic jobs for travelers. Companies are offering more and more remote roles where you can provide customer support via email, chat, or phone. Or, if you like the idea of becoming a virtual assistant (VA), they help businesses with administrative project support, managing emails, social media, scheduling, and so forth too.
How to Get Started:
- Find Remote Job Listings: Job boards like We Work Remotely or Remote.co frequently feature remote customer service and virtual assistant job opportunities.
- Craft an Awesome Resume: Show off your communication skills, customer service experience, and organizational skills.
- Network: Use sites like Facebook groups or Reddit forums to find companies that post their remote jobs in community settings.
Pros of Remote Jobs:
- Work from anywhere as long as you have a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection
- Have a stream of cash flow coming in while you travel
- Have opportunities that help you build experience in your field to help your career
5. Work on a Cruise Ship
If working at sea interests you and you enjoy teamwork, cruise ship jobs may be ideal for you. There is a lifestyle behind cruise ship jobs which is unique as cruise ship jobs allow you to travel the world while being paid to do so. Cruise ship jobs can be in any position from entertainment to hospitality, often providing great perks such as accommodation and meals provided.
How to get started:
- Research cruise lines: popular cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line offer job postings on their websites.
- Search for position: cruise ship jobs are available from entertainment staff to cleaners and chefs to choose a selected job to suit your skill set.
- Be prepared for long hours: working on a cruise ship is rewarding but can have long work hours and busy work schedules.
Pros of working on a cruise ship:
- Opportunity to travel to multiple locations for free
- Accommodation and meals are typically included
- Meet people from all over the world
6. Work as a Tour Guide
If you love storytelling and history, being a tour guide could be one of the most fulfilling jobs for travelers. Many companies hire a local guide and some allow you to work on a freelance basis.
How to get started:
- Check for Tour Guide work: Different countries and cities have local tour companies that offer trips that hire guides on seasonal contracts.
- Get certified: Some destination areas require tour guides to be certified by the tourism board or other local legislation agencies (check for your local requirements).
- Organize your own tours: If you have an extensive knowledge of a particular place, you could independently offer private tours to tourists.
Pros of Being a Tour Guide:
- Share your passion for local culture with other people
- Work in a fluid, energetic social environment
- Flexible hours and you get to keep the tips
Conclusion
Finding the right job to fund your travel doesn’t have to be stressful. There are many options available from online freelance work and teaching English to becoming a travel guide, all of which give you an opportunity to make some cash while experiencing the world. These new job options underscore the fact that you can take your travel and time without sacrificing a chance to earn money on your travels. You can have the travel job of your dreams while still earning money to fund your travels on your own terms – that is fantastic!
Only advice I can give you is research, be honest about your abilities and find a job that you love, fits your budget and allows you to travel! A bit of planning and courage is all you need and you’ll be travelling longer, experiencing new cultures and making memories for classes to come. Start looking for the travel job to fund your adventures today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Which jobs are best for budget travelers?
Freelance writers, English teachers abroad, a travel guide, and remote customer service jobs. These are generally best jobs for travelers.
How can I get remote work while traveling?
There are websites, such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Remote.co which help in finding a job. Networking and staying active on social media can also help.
Do I need a special visa while traveling to work?
It depends on the country. Some countries give work visas for certain jobs like teaching or freelance work. A tourist or visitor visa may allow some types of work for a limited amount of time.
Can I travel full time and earn enough money?
Absolutely! There are many travelers who earn using remote work while traveling, freelancers who earn their living while traveling, full time employees, and people who can work in the hospitality and tourism industry. It is really about budgeting and making sure you earn consistent money.
Are there any jobs that allow me to travel and stay in one place?
Yes! Tour guides, hotel staff, cruise ship staff, etc. These jobs can allow you to travel and stay in one place while working.
I’m Ali Raza Arsal, a passionate solo traveler who has visited 96 countries—mostly on a tight budget. Over the years, I’ve learned countless tips, tricks, and hacks to make travel affordable without missing out on unforgettable experiences. I created Travel with Raza to help others discover how they too can explore the world without spending a fortune.