Last updated: October 15, 2023

Written by travel expert: James

Craving for a life of adventure while filling up your bank account? 

We’ve got the secret sauce you’re looking for!

Welcome to a world where wanderlust and finances coexist, a realm only a few dare to dive into. Gear up as we unfold mind-blowing strategies that combine two pursuits many believe incompatible: Travelling and making money.

Prepare yourselves because these top tips and strategies might redefine your concept of freedom and financial independence. The ride starts here on our journey to mastering the art of earning while exploring!

Low on time? Here's some quick info from our article:
Several ways to make money while on your travels include freelance work like writing, photography, or graphic design that can be done remotely. 
Other options include, teaching English, working as a tour guide, or finding seasonal jobs in tourist areas. 
It is also possible to earn money while housesitting or working at hostels in exchange for accommodation and meals. 

Creating a Sustainable Travel Plan

Embarking on a journey to travel and make money requires careful planning and strategising to ensure sustainability. Creating a sustainable travel plan involves considering various factors such as budget, income sources, and lifestyle choices.

Setting Your Financial Goals

First and foremost, it’s crucial to assess your financial situation and set a realistic travel budget. Calculate your expenses, including accommodation, transportation, food, and any other essentials you may need on the road. This will give you a clear understanding of how much money you need to earn or save before you embark on your adventure.

For example, let’s say you estimate that your monthly expenses while travelling would be around $1500. Multiply this amount by the number of months you plan to be on the road. If you want to travel for six months, you need at least $9000 to cover your basic needs.

Identifying Income Sources

Next, consider the various income sources available to sustain your travels. As mentioned, there are numerous ways to make money while travelling, including remote jobs, freelancing opportunities, blogging, or working in tourism-related industries. Research these options thoroughly to determine which ones align with your skills and interests.

For instance, if you have experience in graphic design or web development, consider offering your services as a freelancer. This can provide a steady stream of income that can be maintained even as you move from one location to another.

Lifestyle Choices and Preferences

Additionally, thinking about the lifestyle you want to lead during your travels is essential. Are you comfortable with minimalistic living and willing to use budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or couchsurfing? Or do you prefer more comfort and are eager to work in exchange for accommodation through platforms like Workaway or HelpX?

Understanding your preferences and priorities will help shape your travel plan in a way that feels sustainable and aligned with your goals.

Preparing for the Unexpected: Contingency Plans

Lastly, creating a sustainable travel plan also means having contingency plans in place. Unforeseen circumstances can arise, so it’s essential to have backup savings or alternative income sources to fall back on if needed.

Now that you better understand how to create a sustainable travel plan, let’s move on to the next important aspect: identifying profitable travel locations.

  • According to research by MBO Partners, approximately 4.8 million Americans describe themselves as digital nomads — individuals who work remotely while travelling — as of 2020.
  • A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that nearly one-third of U.S. freelancers are location-independent, enabling them to take their jobs on the road.
  • Statistics from Remote Year indicate that remote workers earn an average salary of $78,000 annually, well above the average American personal income.

Identifying Profitable Travel Locations

When it comes to travelling and making money, not all destinations offer equal opportunities. Identifying profitable travel locations is crucial to maximise your potential for earning income while enjoying new experiences.

Aligning Skills with Economic Opportunities

One approach is to target destinations with growing economies and industries that align with your skills and expertise. Research countries or cities with high demand for your particular field of work or where you can tap into emerging markets.

Think of it as fishing in a pond that’s teeming with fish rather than one that’s nearly empty. Choosing the right location increases your chances of finding opportunities that pay well and sustain your travels.

Considering Cost of Living

Moreover, consider the cost of living in different locations. Lower living costs can stretch your budget further and provide more financial stability during travel. Look for destinations where accommodations, food, transportation, and other essential expenses are affordable without compromising safety and quality of life.

For example, Southeast Asia offers a range of options for travellers looking for affordable living arrangements without sacrificing comfort. Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia have a lower cost of living and offer unique cultural experiences and beautiful landscapes.

Capitalising on Thriving Tourism

Additionally, explore places where tourism is thriving. Popular tourist destinations often present various opportunities for travellers to work in hospitality sectors, such as hotels, restaurants, tour guides, or even language teachers.

While crowded tourist hotspots may offer more job opportunities, competition might be fierce. Consider exploring lesser-known destinations off the beaten path, where you can tap into niche markets or provide specialised services catering to a specific group of travellers.

With these considerations in mind, you can now make informed choices when selecting profitable travel locations that align with your financial and personal goals.

Remote Jobs for Travellers: Making Money on the Move

Travelling the world is a dream for many, but what if you could explore new places and make money while doing it? The good news is that with the rise of digital nomadism and remote work opportunities, making money on the move has become more accessible than ever before. Whether you’re a photographer or writer or have a unique skill set, there are various ways to earn an income while travelling.

So, what are some popular remote jobs for travellers that allow you to earn an income while on the move?

Online Earning Opportunities

The internet has revolutionised how we make money and opened up endless possibilities for earning income through various online platforms. The following are some critical avenues for online earning opportunities:

Virtual Assistance: Admin Support from Anywhere

An exciting opportunity is virtual assistance. Many entrepreneurs and small business owners require help with administrative tasks, scheduling, email management, and social media management. As a virtual assistant, you can offer your organisational skills remotely and assist these professionals while you embark on your adventures.

E-commerce: Your Digital Storefront

One popular approach is e-commerce, where individuals create online stores and sell products or services digitally. Platforms like Shopify, Etsy, or Amazon allow users to set up their shops easily. You can leverage your creativity by designing and selling unique products or utilising dropshipping models where you partner with suppliers who handle inventory management and shipping logistics.

Picture this: You’re travelling through Southeast Asia, discovering vibrant marketplaces and local artisans. Inspired by the creativity around you, you decide to curate a collection of handcrafted jewellery and set up an online store. From stunning necklaces to intricate bracelets, you connect with customers worldwide who appreciate unique craftsmanship.

Affiliate Marketing: Earn While You Share

Another option is affiliate marketing, where you promote products or services on your blog or social media platforms and earn a commission for every sale generated through your referral links. This avenue allows you to tap into your interests and passions while recommending relevant products or services to your audience.

It’s similar to being a travel guide, sharing your recommendations for the best restaurants, accommodations, and activities in different locations. The only difference is that instead of guiding people physically, you guide them through digital channels and earn a commission for their purchases.

As you can see, the possibilities for earning money online while travelling are vast and diverse. These are just some examples, but the options constantly expand as technology evolves.

Freelancing While Exploring

Being a freelancer allows you the freedom to work on projects that align with your skills and interests while having the flexibility to choose where and when you work. Platforms like Upwork offer various travel jobs, from documentary filming and photography to ebook writing, Instagram advertising, sales, and more. The possibilities are endless!

Identifying Marketable Skills: What Can You Offer?

Firstly, it’s essential to identify your marketable skills and determine the services you can offer as a freelancer. Are you a talented writer? Do you have expertise in web design or social media marketing? These skills can be in high demand and help you establish a freelancing career.

Freelance Writing: Words from Anywhere

One common option is freelance writing. With a laptop and an internet connexion, you can provide your writing services to various clients around the globe. Whether it’s crafting blog posts, articles, or website content, freelance writing offers flexibility and the freedom to work from anywhere.

Imagine sitting in a cosy café in Bali, sipping on a cup of coffee as you write engaging travel articles for an online publication. Not only do you get to explore the beauty of Bali during your downtime, but you also get paid for sharing your experiences with readers.

Niche Specialisations: Beyond Writing

For instance, let’s say you have a passion for photography. You could offer your services as an architectural photographer in different cities worldwide. Not only would you get to capture stunning images of iconic landmarks, but also earn money doing something you love.

Building Your Online Portfolio

Once you’ve identified your niche, create an engaging online portfolio that showcases your work and demonstrates your capabilities to potential clients. Platforms like Upwork allow you to create a profile to showcase your skills, experience, and desired pay rate. It’s also important to highlight any relevant certifications or training you have obtained.

Networking: Creating Meaningful Connections

When starting out as a freelancer, it may be beneficial to network with other professionals in your industry while travelling. Attend conferences and workshops or join online communities to connect with like-minded individuals who may provide collaboration opportunities or referrals.

Think of freelancing while exploring as embarking on a journey – the key to success lies in embracing new experiences, constantly refining your skills, and building meaningful connections.

Time Management: Balancing Exploration and Work

Remember that freelancing requires discipline and effective time management. As you travel and explore new destinations, ensure that you allocate dedicated working hours to complete projects and meet deadlines. This will help maintain your professional reputation and provide a steady income stream.

Unique Ways to Earn During Travel

Travelling is an exhilarating experience that allows you to explore new places, meet different people, and immerse yourself in diverse cultures. So, what’s better than getting those same experiences and being paid for them?

The House Sitter’s Journey: A Home Away from Home

One fascinating avenue to consider is house sitting. Many homeowners seek reliable individuals or couples who can take care of their property while away. As a house sitter, you can stay in beautiful homes for free or at a significantly reduced cost. This arrangement saves you money on accommodation expenses and allows you to experience different neighbourhoods and communities more intimately.

Picture yourself living in a cosy cottage nestled in the English countryside or a modern apartment overlooking the bustling streets of Tokyo – all while taking care of someone else’s home.

Language as a Currency: Teaching English Abroad

Another option worth exploring is teaching English abroad. If you have a knack for language instruction and enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds, teaching English can be a rewarding and lucrative opportunity. Many countries, particularly in Asia and the Middle East, offer great demand for English teachers. By obtaining the necessary qualifications, such as TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, you can secure positions that provide decent salaries, accommodation, and often additional benefits like airfare reimbursement.

The Local Expert: Guide Your Way Through

Additionally, tour guiding can be an exciting way to earn money while sharing your passion for travel and local knowledge. If you have a deep understanding of a particular destination or are well-versed in its history and culture, you can offer guided tours to curious travellers. This not only allows you to monetise your expertise but also allows you to connect with like-minded individuals who share your enthusiasm for exploration.

The Double-Edged Sword: Balancing Earnings and Exploration

Some may argue that relying solely on travel-related income streams might limit earning potential or restrict opportunities for deeper cultural immersion. While it’s true that focusing exclusively on travel-related work may require constant movement from one place to another, it also provides a unique chance to explore various destinations more intimately and acquire a diverse set of skills.

There are numerous unique ways to earn money while travelling, from house sitting and teaching English abroad to freelancing and tour guiding, these opportunities provide financial support, incredible experiences, and personal growth.

By finding the right balance between work and exploration, you can embark on a journey that combines your love for travel with your desire for financial independence.

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About the author, James

James and the team at Turtle Trip are seasoned travelers with experience in the travel industry. We've worked for major holiday booking sites, and have explored the world on foot for our own travels.

Our goal is to make travel accessible to everyone, by providing you with the most comprehensive and easy-to-digest guides about the destinations you’re traveling to.

We believe that planning a trip should be fun and exciting, not overwhelming, so, whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, we’ve got you covered.

We wrote this Turtle Trip guide to give you our best tips all in one place, so thanks for reading and have a great time!


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