Have you ever dreamed of exploring the world while maintaining a steady income? (Yes, it is possible!) The digital age has made it easier than ever to make money traveling, creating opportunities for adventure seekers to fund their journeys sustainably. Whether you’re planning a short trip or considering a nomadic lifestyle, this comprehensive guide will show you how to make money on the road while embracing new experiences and cultures.
Please note: all of these money-making strategies vary by country and involve different legal requirements and tax implications, so be sure to do your research on your home and host country ahead of time. We’ve also included some helpful tips below!
Why Combine Work and Travel?
The concept of making money while traveling has evolved from a dream into a viable lifestyle choice. According to a recent Upwork study, 59% of remote workers report they can work from anywhere, creating unprecedented opportunities for combining work and travel.
This shift in workplace norms does not just benefit the travelers. Employers can benefit from workers who are independent, flexible, and bring a fresh perspective to their business. Plus, they also stand to save on resources normally used to equip a local employee, from office space to technology.
So a better question when it comes to combining work and travel is why not? Or better yet, how?
After 50 years of facilitating immersive cultural experiences through InterExchange, we’ve learned a thing or two about savvy travel. Here are some creative methods to consider, typical rates you can expect for each, and some insider pro-tips from our decades of experience. (All of these vary by country and involve different legal requirements, including tax and visa implications, so be sure to do your research on your home and host country ahead of time)!
11 Creative Ways to Make Money While Traveling
1. Work Programs and Cultural Exchanges
Organizations like InterExchange offer structured programs that combine work opportunities with cultural immersion. The Work & Travel USA program, for example, provides international students the chance to experience American culture while earning money through seasonal employment.
- These programs often include support services and visa assistance, making them an excellent option for those new to international work experiences.
- InterExchange is also unique in that it facilitates these exchanges both ways, helping U.S. citizens work and travel abroad to enhance professional and personal development.
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: International students on J-1 Visas in Summer Work Travel or other cultural exchange programs must follow strict visa rules, including working only for approved employers and filing U.S. taxes. They typically pay federal and state income taxes (but not Social Security or Medicare), and must file a 1040-NR by April 15; many are eligible for refunds. Staying compliant helps protect future visa eligibility.
PRO TIP: Live like a local. You don’t need to try all the five-star establishments to get an authentic cultural experience. Instead of going to a concert, ask locals about new artists playing at a nearby pub. Instead of eating out every night, support your neighborhood grocery store by getting local ingredients and try making a popular cultural dish yourself. That’s a skill that will keep paying off far beyond your trip!
2. Digital Nomad Visa Programs
Countries worldwide are embracing remote workers through special visa programs. According to Nomad List, popular destinations like Portugal, Croatia, and Estonia offer digital nomad visas that allow you to reside in their country while working for a foreign employer, without engaging in the host country’s local labor market. For example, Estonia’s digital nomad visa enables remote workers to stay for up to one year while working for employers or clients outside the country.
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: You may still be subject to local tax regulations depending on the length of stay, source of income, and tax treaties between your home and host countries—so it’s important to understand both visa rules and potential tax obligations.
PRO TIP: Utilize slower methods of transportation. Not only is taking the bus or a bike much more cost-effective than shared ride services and taxis, but you’ll be more likely to meet locals, explore your surroundings, and have built-in time to recharge and reflect. Incorporating a little adventure into your daily routine will help you avoid burnout or FOMO during your time abroad.
3. Become an Au Pair
Becoming an au pair can be a financially sustainable way to travel the world, immerse yourself in new cultures, and build meaningful relationships while gaining valuable experience. An au pair is a young person from another country who lives with a host family, providing childcare in exchange for room, board, a small stipend, and cultural exchange, typically for one year while pursuing some education in the host country. Curious about life as an au pair? Unlock your American adventure with InterExchange’s Au Pair USA.
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: Au pair stipends can vary considerably by country, so it’s important to research your destination beforehand. They typically enter on cultural exchange or specific au pair visas, which often allow them to live with a host family and receive a stipend in exchange for childcare. In the U.S. and many other countries, this stipend is considered taxable income, so au pairs are usually required to file a tax return, even if they may not owe taxes.
PRO TIP: While you don’t want to lose sight of your primary job as caregiver, it can be financially and culturally beneficial to add an evening or weekend job as an alternative source of income if your host country permits it. For example, working as a cashier, language tutor, or freelancer just a couple days per week can double your weekly earnings!
4. Freelancing Opportunities
One of the most flexible ways to make money remotely while traveling is through freelancing. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer connect skilled professionals with clients worldwide. Common freelance opportunities include:
- Content writing and copywriting
- Graphic design
- Web development
- Digital marketing
- Social media management
- Virtual assistance
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: According to Fiverr’s 2023 Freelance Economic Impact Report, freelancers on their platform earned an average of $53 per hour in 2023. Not too shabby and can definitely help replenish those travel funds! Freelancing in another country may require a specific visa or permit, as tourist visas often prohibit work. Income earned while freelancing abroad is usually subject to local tax laws, and you may also need to report it in your home country, depending on tax treaties and residency rules.
PRO TIP: Manage your time effectively. Work expectations can be totally different between companies, especially those from a different culture. Communicating expectations upfront will help you manage your time more effectively and determine whether you need another source of income. Ask how many hours you’re expected to work each week and if you will be compensated for overtime. You can also negotiate and set boundaries accordingly, so long as you demonstrate a willingness to adapt and compromise.
5. Virtual Assistant Services
The demand for virtual assistants has grown significantly, with many businesses preferring remote support staff. As a virtual assistant, you can offer services such as:
- Email management
- Calendar scheduling
- Customer service
- Basic bookkeeping
- Social media management
- Research and data entry
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: ZipRecruiter reports that virtual assistants earn an average of $24 per hour, with experienced professionals commanding higher rates. Working as a virtual assistant from another country may require a visa that allows remote work, as tourist visas often don’t permit employment. You’ll need to follow local tax laws for income earned there and may also have tax obligations in your home country depending on your residency status and tax treaties.
PRO TIP: Nurture ongoing work relationships. When working virtually on a temporary assignment, it can be tempting to be short-sighted. But investing in long-term work relationships can lead to future assignments for you or others, valuable professional resources, or connections to other opportunities you may not have had otherwise.
6. Seasonal Employment
Seasonal jobs offer excellent options when exploring how to make money while traveling, particularly in tourism-heavy locations. Popular options include:
- Ski resort staff (winter)
- Tour guides
- Hotel and hospitality work
- National park services
- Agricultural work (harvest seasons)
- Summer camp counselors
InterExchange’s Work & Travel Australia and Canada programs facilitate these opportunities while providing valuable cultural experiences.
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: Working as a seasonal employee in another country typically requires a specific work or seasonal visa that permits temporary employment. You’ll need to comply with the host country’s tax regulations for income earned there, and you may also have tax obligations in your home country depending on your residency and tax agreements.
PRO TIP: Pay yourself first. When working abroad for a season, especially in activity-packed tourist areas, you can feel like money’s going out faster than it’s coming in. One way to prevent impulsive spending and keep extra funds on hand is the “pay yourself first” method — putting the first portion of every paycheck directly into a savings account, separate from your checking. Prioritizing savings before expenses, instead of the other way around, will help you make better financial decisions overall.
7. Cruise Ship Employment
Working on cruise ships combines steady income with international travel. There are a wide range of positions available, depending on your interests and skill sets, including:
- Hospitality staff
- Entertainment personnel
- Deck crew
- Technical staff
- Medical personnel
- Fitness instructors
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: According to Cruise Line Jobs, entry-level positions typically offer $1,600-$2,500 monthly, plus room and board during your time at sea. Working on a cruise ship usually requires obtaining work visas based on the ship’s registration country and the ports where you work. Tax obligations depend on your tax residency and the countries where you earn income, so you may need to file tax returns in multiple jurisdictions. It’s important to understand both visa and tax rules before starting employment.
PRO TIP: Make purchases on land. Cruise lines tend to mark up prices, from tour packages to souvenir shops. To avoid pouring all your hard-earned money right back into the ship, do your research ahead of time about the places you will be stopping along the way. Book all tours through local companies and save souvenir shopping for excursions on land. Not only will this be better for your budget, but you’ll be supporting the economies of the places you visit.
8. Teaching Languages Abroad
Teaching languages, particularly English, remains one of the most reliable ways to make money traveling. This can be done in a classroom setting or as a private tutor. Teaching requirements are a little more strict than other positions and typically include a Bachelor’s degree, TEFL/TESOL certification, and native or near-native language proficiency. See if you qualify for one of our paid 3-month English teaching internships here!
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: GoOverseas reports that English teachers abroad can earn between $1,500-$5,000 monthly, depending on the location and the teacher’s qualifications. You’ll typically need a work visa or permit in the host country. For taxes, you may be subject to local income tax laws and might need to file tax returns both in the host country and your home country, depending on tax treaties and residency rules.
PRO TIP: Expand your reach. There will be a high demand for your services, beyond the program you were hired into. Let people in your neighborhood know that you teach a language and that you’re willing to tutor them outside of working hours. This could quickly lead to extra income that can go into your savings or towards your travel expenses. Be sure you are compliant with any local labor and/or tax laws regarding international visitors.
9. Travel Blogging and Content Creation
While building a successful travel blog takes time, established bloggers can generate income by utilizing various partnerships, including:
- Affiliate marketing
- Sponsored content
- Digital products
- Photography sales
- Social media partnerships
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: According to ProBlogger, successful travel bloggers typically earn $3,000-$10,000 monthly through multiple revenue streams.
PRO-TIP: Go off the beaten path. As a travel blogger, you may be tempted to review all the highly-ranked tourist spots. But since travel guides have those covered, seek out more hidden treasures, which are likely to be more affordable. Local businesses will benefit from the exposure, and you’ll be providing a more authentic, affordable experience for your readers. (Your pocketbook will thank you as well!)
10. Online Tutoring
As the global online tutoring market continues to grow, knowing how to make money on vacation or during extended travel is easier than ever. Popular subjects include:
- Academic subjects
- Test preparation
- Music lessons
- Language instruction
- Professional skills
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: Platforms like VIPKid and Preply connect tutors with students worldwide, with rates ranging from $15-$50 per hour. This generally doesn’t require a work visa since the job is remote, but you must follow the tax regulations of your country of residence. You’ll need to report your tutoring income and pay any applicable local taxes, and possibly declare foreign income depending on your country’s rules.
PRO TIP: Be specific about your niche. While it may seem like you’ll attract more students by casting a wider net, focusing on a specific niche will make you more marketable to the right audience. For example, if you are planning to teach English, be specific about the type of English you will offer (e.g., English for business, English for exam prep, English for Spanish-speakers from your own native country, etc).
11. Photography and Videography
Travel photographers and videographers can monetize their skills in a variety of ways, including stock photo/video sales, brand partnerships, event photography, photography tours and workshops, and online courses. And that’s just scratching the surface!
RATES & REQUIREMENTS: Shutterstock contributors report earning between $500-$3,000 monthly, depending on portfolio size and image quality. The appropriate work visa or permit for that country. Tax obligations depend on local laws, and you may need to report and pay taxes on income earned there, while also considering any tax responsibilities in your home country.
PRO TIP: Diversify your skill set. Many factors go into how much you get paid as a travel photographer, so it’s important to give yourself an edge. Developing your writing skills in order to provide content with your photographs can be a huge asset to a company looking to cut costs elsewhere. Plus, being able to sell your work verbally will make your pitch decks more compelling and allow you to negotiate higher rates.
Making the Most of a Travel-Work Lifestyle
Successfully combining work and travel requires balance and planning. Here are some tips for preparation and sustainable success:
- Build your skills first: Before your trip, take an online course in your chosen field, build a portfolio of work, obtain necessary certifications, network with other international participants, and practice using essential tools and software.
- Financial planning: Save 3-6 months of living expenses as a safety net, research the cost of living in target destinations, set up international banking solutions, investigate tax implications of working abroad, and obtain appropriate travel and health insurance.
- Get the right tools: Make sure you have a good technical setup like a reliable laptop or mobile device, portable backup solutions, VPN service for secure connections, an international phone plan or local sim options, and cloud storage solutions.
- Consider legal requirements: Research essential information about visa requirements and restrictions, work permits when necessary, tax obligations in home and host countries, insurance requirements, and business registration if needed.
- Establish a Routine: Create a flexible schedule that allows for both work and exploration.
- Choose Suitable Destinations: Research locations with a reliable internet infrastructure, reasonable cost of living, safe environment, and vibrant global community.
- Build a Support Network: Connect with other travelers and remote workers through coworking spaces, social media groups, and professional networks.
- Maintain Work-Life Balance: Set boundaries between work and travel time to avoid burnout. Maintaining a healthy balance between work and play will help you get more enjoyment from both.
Your Journey Awaits
Learning how to make money while traveling opens up a world of possibilities for those seeking adventure without sacrificing income. Whether through structured programs like InterExchange’s cultural exchange opportunities, freelance work, or creative entrepreneurial ventures, there are countless resources on how to make money while traveling and gain valuable experience and cultural understanding.
Remember that successful location-independent work requires careful planning, dedication, and adaptability. Start by choosing the method that best matches your skills and interests, then take strategic steps to build your remote career. With proper preparation and the right approach, you can create a sustainable lifestyle that combines work with the freedom to explore the world.
Ready to start your journey? Consider exploring structured programs like InterExchange’s Work & Travel opportunities, which provide a supported entry into international work experiences. These programs offer a perfect balance of cultural exchange and income generation, helping you begin your journey of making money while traveling with confidence and support.
References:
- Upwork – Future Workforce Report (2023): Research on remote work trends and statistics.
- Nomad List – Digital Nomad Visa Database (2024): A comprehensive list of countries offering digital nomad visas and their requirements.
- Fiverr – Freelance Economic Impact Report (2023): Annual report on freelancer earnings and market trends.
- ZipRecruiter – Virtual Assistant Salary Data (2024): Current salary information for virtual assistant positions.
- Cruise Line Jobs – Cruise Ship Salary Guidelines (2024): Overview of cruise ship job roles and compensation.
- GoOverseas – Teaching English Abroad Salary Guide (2023): Salaries by country for teaching English abroad.
- ProBlogger – Travel Blogging Income Report Study (2023): Analysis of income sources and earnings for travel bloggers.
- Bridge Education Group – Maximizing Earnings as an Online English Teacher (2022): Tips on choosing a niche and increasing online teaching income.
- The Wandering Lens – Travel Photographer Income Guide: What to expect when earning income as a travel photographer.
