Top Travel Careers: Exciting Job Opportunities for Your Future

Dave and I spent years searching for fulfilling careers that filled our souls with joy. However, it wasn’t easy. We split our time between working in the film industry and taking time off to travel the world. Therefore, we brainstormed numerous ideas for travel jobs that suited our lifestyle, from becoming scuba diving instructors to leading bicycle tours.

We knew that travel was our passion for the rest of our lives, but how do we choose the best travel job that actually pays a salary?

Travel Jobs to Help You See the World

As working environments evolve and the appeal of remote living increases, many people are looking to live and work abroad. If you are considering a career change, we’ve compiled a list of the best travel jobs to inspire new career ideas.

Every time Dave and I left for a trip, we returned home to positive transformations. When you open your heart to new experiences, the universe rewards you with possibilities and opportunities to fill that space. Consequently, let’s explore the best travel jobs that allow you to earn money while changing your life.

Things to Consider When Working Overseas

While looking to make money while traveling, it’s important to keep in mind that you may need a working visa. There are various types of working visas, and a working holiday visa is an excellent option. This visa permits travelers to obtain employment and a residence permit in the country issuing the visa to supplement their travels. The caveat is that it is generally designated for young travelers aged 18 to 30 or 35.

Best Jobs that Allow You to Travel

Things have significantly changed since we began searching for ways to earn money while traveling in 2003. Nowadays, various jobs enable people to work remotely, with society increasingly embracing the “location independent” lifestyle. Moreover, individuals can live anywhere in the world. Some of the best jobs offer travel opportunities and competitive salaries!

The opportunities are limitless. We are not suggesting that you quit your job today and jump into one of these travel careers; however, it doesn’t hurt to start exploring job opportunities in travel and planning for a more exhilarating life tomorrow!

The best travel jobs can be categorized into various fields: jobs that pay you to travel, remote work options, positions in the travel industry, and roles that support your travels while you explore the world. If you are eager to become location independent, check out various ways to get paid to travel.

Network, Network, Network

Connecting with like-minded individuals is one of the most effective ways to find travel jobs. Join platforms like Travel Massive, TBEX, Travel Writer’s Exchange, The Blogger Collective, and Nomadic Network. These networks provide excellent opportunities to discuss ideas, find work, and meet experienced professionals already working in the travel sphere.

Additionally, numerous travel boards exist for finding freelance travel gigs, including UpWork, Problogger, FlexJobs, and Fiverr, among others.

Digital Nomad Jobs

Jobs for digital nomads are rapidly gaining popularity as the top careers in travel. These roles allow you to work from home or from anywhere globally. Often requiring minimal experience, if you have a reliable internet connection and a willingness to put in the hard work, you can thrive as a digital nomad. Moreover, many companies now allow remote work, which opens doors for working abroad.

Travel Blogging

We are particularly fond of travel blogging, as it represents the career we chose to explore the world while generating income. We believed that the travel blogging field was shrinking a few years ago due to the pandemic and the rise of influencers. However, now that we are back to normal, most of our income comes from blogging, often exceeding what we earn through social media campaigns.

Salary: New bloggers can realistically expect to earn between $3,000 and $5,000 after a year of hard work. Start your travel blog while holding a full-time job; it takes time to grow your expertise, but once established, the sky is the limit. Established travel bloggers can earn between $1,000 and $3,000 per month, while top-tier travel bloggers can make between $20,000 and $60,000 per month, or even more!

Teach English Online

Did you know that teaching English as a second language doesn’t require being in a classroom? Online teaching platforms have made remote work more accessible than ever, and the demand for online English teachers is high as many people are studying from home.

If you are a native English speaker, consider becoming an online English teacher. Finding a teaching job online is achievable regardless of your qualifications. If you don’t have a degree, don’t worry. It’s still possible to find the perfect online teaching job.

Salary: As an online English teacher, you can expect to earn between $12 and $24 per hour (ranging from $480 to $1,440 per month), along with regular bonuses and enticing pay incentives. If you’re based in regions like Southeast Asia, that income can go a long way.

YouTuber

Creating a YouTube channel is another fantastic way to achieve financial independence. Growing a YouTube channel doesn’t happen overnight; however, if you possess editing skills and can produce engaging videos, it can lead to a rewarding career.

Having a YouTube channel involves more than just earning money from ads. Content creators often secure brand partnerships, receive payment for creating videos, or get hired to promote destinations.

While we don’t have a massive YouTube following with 50,000 subscribers, we generate approximately $1,500 Canadian monthly from our channel. Imagine the earnings of larger YouTubers!

Video Editor

If you want to avoid the hassle of building a YouTube following, consider offering video editing services for platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. We regularly hire editors for our videos and receive numerous offers for editing services. This can be a very lucrative career, as companies, bloggers, and even YouTubers seek skilled editors to assist with their video projects. Formal education isn’t mandatory, but proficiency in Final Cut Pro X or Adobe Premiere Pro is highly beneficial.

Influencer

Although primarily bloggers, Dave and I frequently get hired as social media influencers. If you have a large following on Instagram or TikTok, you can develop a high-earning career in travel. Many brands look for influencers to promote destinations, products, or companies. Although this job requires no formal experience, it demands hard work and a touch of good fortune.

Graphic Design and Website Management

If you possess graphic design skills, you can maintain a lucrative business while traveling. Our friends Dana and Rose successfully work from anywhere, having recently relocated from the United States to Canada while maintaining their international clientele.

Freelance Writer

Believe it or not, freelance writing remains in high demand. You can write for blogs, websites, or any platform that requires written content. While traditional publications like magazines and newspapers seek contributors, many businesses look for skilled writers to manage their copywriting and newsletter needs.

You can start by creating a profile on platforms like UpWork and ProBlogger to showcase your writing skills. Furthermore, honing your skills with WordPress and other writing tools can help you progress in this field.

Virtual Assistant

A Virtual Assistant position is an excellent job for anyone who loves to travel. This role allows you to work from any location as long as you have access to Zoom and email. Virtual assistants manage various tasks, including formatting documents, answering emails, and assisting with social media accounts.

Build your skill set in computers, blogging, and social media, then start promoting your services as a virtual assistant to kickstart your rewarding travel career! Great places to look for virtual assistant jobs include: UpWork, LinkedIn, and Indeed. In Canada, virtual assistants usually earn around $25 per hour.

Website Technical Support

If you have a background in IT and tech, you can work while traveling globally. Most website businesses require technical support, which they often pay for on a monthly retainer. They handle updates and back-end issues, and can manage their tasks from anywhere.

However, experience is essential, and you should be knowledgeable in backend website management. Handling such responsibility is critical, as these projects can affect the livelihoods of others.

Web Developer

Web development has emerged as one of the most in-demand jobs for digital nomads. Businesses constantly need assistance with their websites, so if you possess coding skills and knowledge of HTML and JavaScript, you can enjoy a lucrative career. Web developers design websites, troubleshoot coding issues, and maintain website efficiency.

Travel Photographer

Travel photographers we know often utilize multiple income streams, from selling images to magazines and online stock photography. However, the most profitable methods for travel photographers involve conducting photography tours and hosting workshops.

If you boast a strong social media presence on platforms like Instagram or TikTok, you can also get hired as an influential photographer to promote brands and destinations. Building a solid portfolio and becoming proficient in DSLR camera operations is vital for aspiring photographers.

Expat Jobs

Expat jobs differ from digital nomad careers; these positions require you to travel and temporarily reside in a foreign country. Here are some excellent options for travel-required roles.

Teach English Abroad

Teaching English abroad remains a popular option for travelers. Getting TEFL certified (Teach English as a Foreign Language) is a fantastic way to kickstart your journey. After completing your TEFL course, you can find countless job opportunities posted on travel job boards.

Salary for teaching English abroad: $1,500 – $5,000 per month, depending on qualifications and the country where you are teaching. Typically, having a degree increases your earning potential.

Hospitality – Hotel and Resort Front Desk or Manager

This role is suitable for individuals with a background in hospitality or tourism, as international hotels consistently seek qualified staff. Some common expat roles in hospitality include hotel managers, chefs, and sales managers.

Chef

Becoming a chef requires dedication and hard work, but presents opportunities to travel globally. We recently dined at the French Ambassador’s house in Toronto, where the chef hailed from France. His vast experience allowed him to work in several countries.

Travel Nursing

If you are a nurse, your skills are in high demand. Locations in the Middle East often pay significantly higher wages than in North America. This role offers a unique way to immerse yourself in different communities.

Teach Yoga

The importance of health and wellness has risen dramatically, and becoming a yoga teacher is a fulfilling travel opportunity. Yoga retreats worldwide constantly seek qualified instructors, and many resorts offer yoga classes for guests.

If you’re a certified yoga instructor, consider approaching local gyms, hostels, and condos to offer classes. You can find numerous opportunities in cruise ships, hotels, and resorts as well.

Massage Therapist

Massage therapists are always in demand, whether in resorts, on cruise ships, or at retreats. Being a certified therapist is essential, so begin searching online for available positions in top destinations.

Au Pair

If you love children, becoming an Au Pair is an excellent way to travel and work abroad. Au Pair roles typically involve living with a family and assisting with childcare, cooking, and cleaning.

NGO Worker

Working for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) offers valuable experiences that can improve communities while engaging in advocacy, environmental conservation, and humanitarian efforts. Though generally non-profit, many NGOs work with substantial budgets, and salaries can vary significantly.

Travel Industry Jobs

Scuba Instructor or Dive Master

Becoming a scuba diving instructor was one of our initial aspirations for future travel jobs. Despite our circumstances altering our path, the demand for qualified instructors and Dive Masters remains high in resort areas. Please remember that to teach scuba diving, you need to obtain certification.

Work on a Cruise Ship

Cruise ship employment offers an incredible lifestyle. I experienced this first-hand as a performer on a cruise ship, where my passion for travel ignited. Countless job options exist; people can work as chefs, casino dealers, activity specialists, and more!

Yachting

For a more unique experience, consider working on a private yacht. If you have sailing experience, lucrative opportunities await. If you’re a beginner, you can start as a deckhand or cook. Check out CrewSeekers for available yachting positions.

Helicopter and Airline Pilots

If you aspire to be a pilot, don’t limit yourself to major airlines flying large jets. Your pilot’s license can open numerous doors for work. Whether flying tourists to private islands or conducting scenic flights, opportunities abound.

Hot Air Balloon Pilot

Interested in something unique? Consider becoming a hot air balloon pilot. Many pilots we’ve encountered are expats or travelers. This role can take you to incredible locations around the globe, making it an exciting opportunity.

Flight Attendant

Becoming a flight attendant is a classic travel job. Flight attendants are among the most well-traveled individuals, and their work allows them to explore various destinations.

Tour Guide

Working as a tour guide offers a fantastic way to earn money while exploring the world. Companies like Intrepid Travel and GoAhead Tours frequently hire individuals to lead tours globally.

Travel Agent

Despite the digital shift in trip planning, travel agents remain essential. Traditional methods are evolving, and clients seek agents who can create unique and personalized travel experiences.

Running Your Own Tours

Many travelers turn their blogs into viable businesses by leading their own tours. If you have established a presence in any location, consider running customized tours like culinary or cultural experiences.

Backpacker Jobs

Bartender

With bartending skills, you can travel the world while working. Many backpackers finance their travels by taking on bartending jobs in local establishments.

Front of House

If you stay in one place for a while, check local guesthouses or hostels for job openings. Many travelers find interim work in a friendly atmosphere.

Ski Instructor

Adventure lovers can thrive as ski or snowboard instructors. Spend a winter in the Rocky Mountains, then explore summer opportunities in Australia or New Zealand.

Laborer and Seasonal Work

If you need to earn some extra cash, consider seasonal work. Tasks can range from laboring to helping on farms, particularly in regions like New Zealand and Australia.

WWOOFing

WWOOFing (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms) connects travelers with organic farmers seeking help. Although not a paid position, WWOOFers receive room and board in exchange for their work.

Whitewater Rafting or Kayaking Guide

Guides for whitewater rafting can work globally, using their skills and experience to lead adventures. Learning this unique skill can open up career opportunities worldwide.

Extreme Sports Guides

If skydiving or paragliding is your passion, consider freelance guiding. With proper training and experience, you can build an exciting career and travel to various locations.

Consulting

If you possess skills others can benefit from, consider consulting. You can set your own rates and provide valuable insights while traveling.

Drop Shipping

For individuals with a marketing background, dropshipping could be worth exploring. This model allows you to sell products online without the need for inventory or a physical storefront.

Musician

As a musician, you can perform in various venues across the globe. Seek opportunities in hotels, resorts, and bars, showcasing your talent for audiences everywhere.

Airbnb Host

Many travelers utilize Airbnb for accommodations, while savvy hosts generate substantial income to finance their adventures. Our friends Kristen and Siya made significant earnings renting their property!

Other Travel Jobs – Thinking Outside the Box

Day Trading – Although it’s a risky venture, individuals have succeeded in day trading while traveling. This method requires research and knowledge, so proceed with caution.

Online Translation – If you are bilingual, consider offering translation services. Companies are constantly recruiting individuals to translate documents, websites, and software into various languages.

Discover More About Nomadic Living

If you wish to learn more about travel opportunities and nomadic living, explore further resources available to help you find your path.