Ever wonder how you can travel the world and actually afford it? You don’t necessarily need to quit your 9-5 to just blow away your life savings. Nope, I’m here to tell you different ways that you can make decent money while traveling!
Everyone has a travel style and that’s okay – one shoe does not fit all! As young professionals in our mid-twenties, we’re not necessarily traveling “backpacking style”. Instead, we’ve found ways to travel the world while working, traveling smart, and maintaining a digital nomad lifestyle.
I’ve written previous articles on travel hacks and how to save money WHILE traveling, but this time, let me share with you three different ways that you can have a job while you’re abroad.
1. Work holiday visas
As a US citizen – you’re eligible to apply for a working holiday visa in the following countries: Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Korea and Ireland.
They all allow you to stay for up to 12 months and legally work throughout the chosen country. This opens up opportunities for you to be able to work abroad in your field of expertise! Each country has its own eligibility requirements, it is your responsibility to ensure that you qualify.
Did you know? The Australian national minimum wage is $719.20 per week, for a 38-hour week, or $18.93 per hour.
Makes you think twice about living in the USA, huh? : ) I have friends that have succeeded in obtaining a work holiday visa and have great things to say about it. Do your research – this might be a great option for you!
2. Teach English online
Did you know there is a strong demand for American/Canadian virtual teachers for Chinese students? There are many companies that cater to this group – however I cannot recommend Magic Ears enough!
You set your own hours and starting salary is $22-26/hr. Not too shabby when you’re in countries with a lower cost of living than the USA!
Basic requirements:
– Bachelor’s degree or proof of continuous education
– TEFL certificate (you can complete this requirement online)
– Ethernet connection
– Laptop, headset and webcam
– Passion for education!
See my stats above with Magic Ears – I’ve taught over 100 classes already! If you have any questions, contact me directly and I’m happy to share tips and answer questions about my experience! Here is my referral code if you decide to apply.
Since I’m so passionate about travel, I’m also a dedicated trip advisor – my travel guru planning service is tailored to all types of lifestyles, from budget to luxury travel. You pick the destination, I make it happen!
I promise having a travel guru will make your trip far more enjoyable 🙂
3. Find a local job through expat groups
Searching for a temporary gig online may be a no-brainer, but maybe you did not know there is a strong expat community through Facebook groups in nearly every big city.
What is an expat? It’s a person who is residing in a country outside their native country.
What it really means, is that you’re likely to find English-speaking people in your community who live there permanently and may feel more comfortable hiring an extra hand who speaks their native language.
Some examples of the type of jobs you can find are:
– Au-pair jobs (nanny-like positions with an emphasis in speaking to the child in a different language than its native language, in this case, English.)
– Dog walkers/dog sitters
– House-sitting
When we lived in Chile, I was an au-pair for a beautiful Chilean baby girl, in Argentina, we’ve hired someone to watch our dog Brodie for us while we traveled to the Patagonia. These expat groups have been a lifesaver for us!
They are also a wonderful way to meet other people and find out about fun events in the city.
Another great resource we have found, is this digital nomad website. It has great info such as cost of living, neighborhoods to stay in, walkability and night life, as well as a general forum to ask questions to like-minded people.
As always, I’m here to inspire you to travel and explore more! I’m always happy to give travel tips, advice, and personal recommendations. I hope this blog post opens up a world of possibilities for you! Follow me at @itraveliexplore_socanyou for more travel inspiration!
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Signed after celebrating one year of living abroad!
Salma Travel Guru
Travel Guru Destinations 
Love this article Salma! Keep it up!
Thanks Jason!!!