By Have you ever wondered how much money you need to save to travel? Do you need $1,000, $2,000, or even $50,000? For many people, saving a lot of money to travel can seem impossible. Even if you cut back on expenses, sometimes you just don’t have enough saved up.
But here’s the good news: if you don’t have a huge travel fund, you can still travel—by working as you go.
Working abroad can help pay for your adventures and let you experience new cultures, learn new languages, and meet interesting people. Many travelers have done it, and you can too! Below are 15 ways to earn money while traveling overseas.
1. Teach a Language
For native English speakers, teaching English is one of the easiest jobs to get abroad. Many schools, especially in Southeast Asia, are looking for teachers. You can even earn bonuses or have your flight paid for.
- Tip: Get a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate through online courses like i-to-i, myTEFL, or The TEFL Academy.
- If you’re not a native English speaker: Teach your own language online using sites like italki or Preply.
2. Work in a Hostel
Hostels often need help with reception, cleaning, or even organizing activities. Sometimes you can even work in exchange for free accommodation.
- Tip: Ask at hostels for job opportunities or use websites like Worldpackers to connect with hostels looking for help.
3. Volunteer
Volunteering usually doesn’t pay, but it can save you money on lodging and meals. You also get the satisfaction of helping others.
- Tip: Use websites like Worldpackers, Workaway, or WWOOF to find volunteer opportunities. Always research to ensure the organization is ethical.
4. Get Seasonal Work
Many places need extra help during peak tourist seasons. You might find work in ski resorts, summer camps, bars, or restaurants.
- Tip: Arrive early in the season to secure a job. Countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Austria, and Norway offer many seasonal jobs.
5. Freelance Online
If you have skills like writing, web design, programming, or graphic design, you can work online from anywhere.
- Tip: Build your portfolio and use platforms like Upwork, TaskRabbit, or Fiverr to find freelance work.
6. Work on a Cruise Ship
Cruise ships hire many kinds of workers, from waitstaff to entertainers. This option lets you travel while you work.
- Tip: Look for job openings on cruise ship websites or in travel forums. Books by experienced cruise ship workers can also be helpful.
7. Use a Working Holiday Visa
Working holiday visas let young people (usually under 30 or 35) work and travel in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
- Tip: Apply for the visa and start looking for short-term jobs as soon as you arrive. Be sure to have an updated resume ready.
8. Be an Au Pair
If you like kids, consider becoming an au pair. You’ll live with a family, take care of their children, and receive free room, board, and a small salary.
- Tip: Websites like AuPair.com, Au Pair World, InterExchange, and Go Au Pair can help you find a host family.
9. Become a Scuba Diving Instructor
If you are a certified diver, you might become a scuba diving instructor. Many tropical destinations need dive instructors.
- Tip: Check dive center websites or ask in person at dive shops for job openings.
10. Use Your Existing Skills
Think about the skills you already have. Whether you play music, dance, do yoga, cook, or offer business advice, you can use these skills to make money.
- Tip: Advertise your services on Craigslist, Gumtree, or even Airbnb Experiences.
11. Work as a Bartender
Every country has bars that need bartenders or even dishwashers. This job is common in hostels and busy tourist spots.
- Tip: Start in a hostel bar or a local pub. Even if you start as a dishwasher, it can lead to more opportunities.
12. Work in a Restaurant
Restaurants always need staff like waiters, cooks, and dishwashers.
- Tip: Apply in person at restaurants in tourist areas or ask in hostels for recommendations. Knowing the local language can be a big plus.
13. Be a Tour Guide
If you love sharing your travel experiences, consider becoming a tour guide. You’ll get to lead groups and share interesting facts about your destination.
- Tip: Look for companies like Kiwi Experience, New Europe Walking Tours, or Contiki that hire tour guides.
14. Work on a Yacht
Working on a yacht can be an exciting way to travel by sea. Many yachts need crew members even if you have little experience.
- Tip: Check websites like Yacrew.com or The Crew Network. You may need some basic certification in yacht safety.
15. Take On Any Job You Can Find
Sometimes the best option is to take any job that comes your way, even if it’s temporary or involves manual labor. Every little bit helps to fund your travels.
- Tip: Look for short-term gigs on Craigslist, Gumtree, HelpX, Workaway, Worldpackers, or WWOOF.
Other Options for More Experienced Travelers
If you have more experience, a degree, or specialized skills, you might look for more traditional jobs in your field. These jobs often require networking and a lot of preparation.
- Tips for finding these jobs:
- Search job boards online before you leave.
- Join local expat groups and attend their events.
- Build a strong LinkedIn profile and bring copies of your resume and certificates.
- Network as much as possible in your new destination.
Extra Resources
- Council on International Educational Exchange Work Abroad Program: Offers work permits and support for short-term jobs in many countries.
- Alliances Abroad, BUNAC, Peace Corps, and Go Abroad: These organizations help place travelers in jobs around the world, often with added benefits.
Working abroad is not only a way to fund your travels—it’s also a unique way to grow personally, learn new skills, and gain unforgettable experiences. With a little creativity and persistence, you can find work almost anywhere in the world. So pack your bags and start your adventure today!