For those with a sense of adventure, a standard 9 to 5 isn't always suitable. Travel and strict scheduling simply don't mix, and most people can't afford to quit working.
Thankfully for the travel-minded, today's climate offers an array of opportunities to pursue your career goals while roaming the world. Whether you're craving a laid-back, digital nomad lifestyle or simply want to explore more, a world of adventure awaits.
01 Online English teacher
Love teaching? Have a passion for helping others? Foreign students need language assistance, and job openings are expanding for those who want to teach English to an ESL crowd. Some jobs focus more on tutoring children than teaching the essentials, so that choice is up to you.
Set a schedule, prepare your lessons, and pop online to teach or tutor on the timeline that works best for you. Most positions require fluent English skills, a college degree, and TEFL certification, but tutoring tends to be more lenient.
02 Online translator
If you're fluent in more than one language, translation is a wonderful career option that you can easily take on the go. Companies require translation for websites, interviews, manuals, and menus, to name just a few, so there are ample opportunities out there. The more fluent you are, and the more you put yourself out there, the more money you can make.
Search for open translation positions that offer remote work. You could get started in just a few weeks and boost your performance before you board that next plane. In addition to full or part-time positions, this role is easy to work on a freelance basis.
03 Freelance writer
Writing about travel is ideal, of course, but with the right combination of experience and skills, you could make a living writing about just about anything. It takes a lot of work to get started: finding and establishing a client base, networking, pitching articles, and working out business details, but once you get the ball rolling, that hard work pays off. Many media, marketing, and publishing companies hire freelance writers to craft their content, and content writing houses are available to help newbies get started.
SEO content writers and copywriters are in particularly high demand, so get a feel for what companies are looking for and find out how your skills and experience stack up. You might have to start with low-paid gigs, but by listing your services on sites and learning how to network, you can build a strong portfolio, gain valuable clients, and earn higher wages.
04 Freelance designer
A favorite among digital nomads, both graphic and website designers often take their show on the road. Both are high-paying careers that can be accomplished anywhere; with the right skills, a computer, and software know-how, you can get started building a client base and working from wherever you choose. An in-depth knowledge of programs such as Dreamweaver, Illustrator, and Photoshop is a must, but formal education isn't required.
Knowing how to code HTML and CSS is another helpful addition to your skillset. Put together a solid portfolio to show off to clients, list and apply to projects online, and watch your career unfold over time.
05 Hostel worker
If you want to experience more of the world, look into backpacker hostels. Many offer programs that provide free room and board (and occasionally event tickets and local tours) in exchange for a set number of work hours each week.
This includes all types of work, from front desk assistance to bartending, gardening, housekeeping, and general labor. These roles usually last from a few weeks to a few months, but they're an excellent way to experience a new location, meet people from around the globe, and gain valuable skills while you're at it.
06 Festival and event staff
Since festivals are limited-time events, most don't rely on long-term employees. Instead, they hire temporary workers for the duration, with roles ranging from set-up and teardown to greeting customers, passing out freebies, concessions, cleaning, attending the parking lot, and so much more.
Hop on board as a temp worker and travel for your favorite festivals or conventions. The best part? Free entry and a bevy of co-workers who are as passionate and fun-loving as you are. Workers are needed before, during, and after the event, so be available for its duration. You can keep an eye out for ads, contact the festival organizers, or seek local temp agencies specializing in large-scale events. Some event companies have national networks, so you know what's happening when and can apply for jobs that catch your attention.
07 Freelance massage therapist
Who doesn't love a good rubdown? Massage therapists are in high demand worldwide, so there will be a need for you regardless of where you wind up. As a trained therapist, you can list your services online, on apps, or with good, old-fashioned flyers.
Hang flyers around hot spots like gyms, hotels, and eateries to get started, and put yourself out there via word of mouth. Tourist hotels might even be willing to partner with you, referring you clients in exchange for a cut.
08 Travel agent
Travel agents put together vacations for eager explorers, handling the planning and logistics, so they don't have to. From booking rooms to organizing activities and transportation, a lot of first-hand advice goes into the role, which means significant travel opportunities for you!
You'll be expected to familiarize yourself with the destinations you sell and be able to offer local advice, so traveling is just another day on the job.
09 Cruise ship staff
Cruise ship companies are frequently hiring new workers, and this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity transports you to exotic destinations with transportation, accommodation, and meals all included. Essentially, you'll make money while enjoying an ocean adventure — for free.
Staff positions are available in every area imaginable, from housekeeping to office administration, guest support, tech, entertainment, cooking, serving, and bartending, to name just a few. Chances are if you have some work experience under your belt, there's a suitable position for you on board. Many cruise companies use a few months on, few months off scheduling approach, so you get generous vacation time paired with top-of-the-line discounts and perks.
10 Flight attendant
If you're ready to start jet-setting for a living, becoming a flight attendant opens up a plethora of opportunities. You'll experience different cities and cultures around the world with a cool crew, with transportation and lodging both included. Not only that, but you'll benefit from heavily discounted airline tickets and hotel discounts on your days off, too.
While the job's tough, with extensive training, long hours, and a lot of moving around, it's a wonderful fit for those with wanderlust; you'll be in new cities throughout the year while getting paid to explore.
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