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Home » Work and Travel » How to Work Remotely and Travel – Everything to Know in 2024

How to Work Remotely and Travel – Everything to Know in 2024

It’s a familiar scene by now: a smiley person sitting somewhere on a tropical beach with a laptop over their thighs looking disgustingly happy. (Even though the laptop is probably full of sand and the overheated battery is burning a brand mark on their legs.)

You know who that is! It’s your friendly neighbourhood, digital nomad!

I’m sure most working folks have had the wild dream of quitting it all to roam the world . After all, isn’t it the dream to exchange the drab office walls for palm trees? Or move your home office to a view of mountains? Be your own boss and work your own hours?

As dreamy as the work remotely abroad dream sounds, many people stay in the dream stage of planning because they are worried about the uncertainty of the lifestyle. But what if I told you that you don’t need to quit your job at all? You can still get the best parts of being a digital nomad while pulling in a steady paycheck.

So, if you want to check out the nomad life with minimal commitment, keep reading! Here are my TOP tips on how to work remotely and travel.

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Digital Nomads and Remote Workers – What’s the Difference?

Before you start to work remotely and travel, tips for the best remote work and travel experience, ready, set, remote work & travel.

So, what actually is the difference between digital nomads and remote workers? Technically, there really isn’t one. But for the sake of this article, let’s say that there is a small distinction that can be made.

Digital nomads’ lifetyle essentially entails working online from somewhere else than one’s home city or country. Most digital nomads are freelancers or entrepreneurs, meaning they are some flavour of self-employed.

Remote workers would in this context be people that are employed by a company, organisation, or any other employer. Many digital nomads are also employed but in my experience of the digital nomad lifestyle, this is a little bit rarer than being self-employed.

In the digital nomad life, the narrative of quitting your job to travel the world is a very common one. There is a whole slew of jobs for remote workers which many wanderers learn from scratch to be able to travel. Obviously, remote workers don’t need to quit anything – they already have a job you can do remotely.

The Benefits of Working Abroad

Life as a digital nomad is definitely a life of freedom and flexibility. You get to be your own boss, decide how much you work and where you live. 

Becoming a digital nomad also comes with a lot of uncertainty. Unless you’re always working with the same, steady clients, you often have to spend a lot of time chasing down new work. Freelancing can be financially risky, and there are no consequences for your clients if they decide to suddenly drop you.

Being employed, you usually have all the benefits that come with being a cushiony office worker. In most places, this would include things like paid sick leave, occupational health care and insurance. Your employer also has to follow employment laws and obligations, meaning that even if your employment relationship ends, the employer is gonna have to give you at least a couple of weeks of notice.

In addition, depending on where you live in the world, you’re almost guaranteed to cut down on your bills. Accommodation, eating out and general living costs can be cheaper than what you’re used to, and you might have fewer utility bills to pay.

So, you basically get the benefits of being a digital nomad with more stability.

Usually working for someone means that you have to work their hours – a solid 8 hours, no matter where you are in the world and how inconvenient this is for your current time zone. On the other hand, you get a steady paycheck every month, which is enough incentive for a lot of people to deal with the inconvenience.

I’m not gonna ask you silly questions like, well, are you convinced? If you’ve read this far, I’m gonna assume you’re along for the ride. Working remotely and travelling is definitely easier than a lot of people think but there are some things you should double-check before leaving if you have an employer.

Let’s look at a few things you should take care of when you’re starting to plan how to work remotely abroad.

Talk to Your Boss

Unfortunately, it’s usually not possible for you to just take off and leave if you’re employed by a company. Before making your move, you should talk to your boss about it and make sure that it is even possible.

Technically, as long as your work can be done remotely from home office, it can be done remotely from anywhere. Many remote workers have actually noticed that they are a lot more productive and effective at their work when working from home and have some more flexibility in how to arrange their work.

Your boss might still need some extra persuasion. You can always agree on a trial period and see how that goes.

Smaller companies are usually more flexible with remote or hybrid work but larger companies often have even pretty strict policies and restrictions in place. Even if your boss agrees to let you work remotely from abroad, investigate if it could affect your company’s benefits.

For example, your company’s health insurance will probably not cover your time abroad but you’ll be required to get a separate travel insurance policy .

Month to month payments, no lock-in contracts, and no itineraries required: that’s the exact kind of insurance digital nomads and long-term traveller types need. Cover yo’ pretty little self while you live the DREAM!

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to work! Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Pack and Plan What You Need

And by this, I don’t mean three suitcases full of tuxedos and briefcases, or whatever office people wear. The neat thing about working remotely is that moving around is easy since you’re supposed to travel pretty light , so don’t stuff your nomad backpack totally full.

However, do make sure you take some stuff that you normally wouldn’t bring on a holiday. It’s surprising how distracting working in a new environment can be. Here are a few quick tips to make sure you’ll continue to focus on your work.

• Get noise-cancelling headphones . Distractions are the death of motivation to work.
• Make (and stick to!) a work schedule. Time management is surprisingly difficult if you’re a newbie at it!
• Pack some conference call appropriate clothes. This is important if you’ll be doing lots of Zoom meetings (formal trousers optional).
• Necessary office supplies: pens, notebooks, calendar, and anything else that you might need.
• Electronics : Travel adapter, a mouse if you use one, international eSIM or an unlocked phone

For more ideas about what you might need, take a look at our digital nomad packing list .

Taxes, Taxes, Taxes

Your employer is probably interested to know about your tax payment plan. More specifically – that you are going to pay some while working remotely and travelling.

Every country has different conventions on paying taxes. As a rule of thumb, you technically become a tax citizen if you stay in a country for more than six months. 

In reality, though, becoming a tax citizen can be an annoying, complex process, and people usually go through it when they’re actually moving somewhere, not when they’re visiting temporarily. 

In some cases, this might also mean that you’d be paying tax to two different countries. Luckily, many countries have regulations to stop this kind of double taxation.

Figure out how your taxation works based on how long you’ll be away, and what you’ll be paying. For example, I pay taxes to my home country because all my employers and work are from there, but I don’t pay for some normally mandatory insurance policies because I’m not physically in the country.

Work Permits

Now, this is a pretty important point: many countries don’t allow foreigners to work while holidaying without a work permit or visa.

Digital nomads are a bit of a grey area in this legislation and most countries don’t really have straightforward rules for this.

Usually, you wouldn’t count as a worker unless you’re earning money in the country itself – meaning, you’re working for a local employer. If your employer and work all come from a different country, there shouldn’t actually be a problem with working remotely.

However, some countries have stricter work laws and would also rule that working for foreign employers would not be allowed.

In general, you can just tell at immigration that you’re there for a holiday and not mention anything about work. (Prepare to present your savings in case they ask how you’re going to support yourself on your lengthy holiday.) 

Some countries have also started offering visas for digital nomads and remote workers which could be an excellent option for you.

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Do You HAVE to Tell Your Boss You’re Abroad?

One problem with jetting off abroad while you’re employed is that employers often have rules regarding places of work. While most employers might be fine with remote work itself, you probably have to make a separate agreement to be able to work even in a different region, let around a different country. 

Some customers have agreements against data transfers outside of their region, which could be a problem if your remote workcation takes you to another continent. For example, working for a US company from Europe could mean that you wouldn’t be allowed to take your work materials outside of the country. 

Your employer might also have policies in place to ensure their data security and prohibit working using public wifis.

Oh, bureaucracy is so fun!

All of these could be (valid) reasons why you think your boss might deny you to work remotely while abroad. So, you might wonder – do you have to tell your boss at all?

And as much as I’d like to encourage honesty and integrity, the truth is that many people don’t, and many people do get away with it. There’s that famous saying of asking for forgiveness rather than permission, right? And with the right clothes and Zoom background, how would they know?

This can be an option for you if you’re willing to maybe get in trouble.

Okay, so now that we’ve got the annoying formalities out of the way and you know more about how to work remotely and travel, let’s move on. Here are some practical tips that can take your remote work and travel experience from “good” to “absolutely epic”.

Join a Co-Working Space

First step : Find a digital nomad-friendly country .

Second step : Find the most popular city in said country.

Where digital nomads gather, there you’ll also find a platter of options for optimal work spots. While many nomads like to work from home or from cafes, for people who are used to the comforts of an office environment, a co-working space might be more of your speed.

Co-working spaces are usually equipped with good desks and chairs, stable wifi, and all the other comforts you could hope to find in a normal office. The best kind of coworking spaces also organise events that help with professional networking and making friends.

 Make sure to check out  Tribal Bali , the best coworking hostel for digital nomads.

Join a Remote Work Programme

One of the most difficult parts of being a digital nomad is the constant movement between places and always having to make new friends, look for apartments, scout out co-working spaces… It can be stressful. Creating a global network of digital nomad friends takes a while.

Remote work programmes are meant to make all of this easier. Ever take a Contiki tour back when you went backpacking? Remote work programmes basically operate on a similar idea. You give the company money and they take care of all the basic stuff like organising your accommodation and working spaces while putting you together with a similarly minded group of friends.

You can find programmes spanning from just a few weeks to months so they are easy to fit around your remote work and travel trial.

The program might end up costing slightly more than if you planned everything yourself. However, if you’re new to the world of remote work and travel, letting someone else take the reins saves you a lot of headaches.

Learn to Balance Work and Travel

Take it from me, a digital nomad of almost half a decade and a bona fide backpacker for years before that – working SIMULTANEOUSLY while travelling is really, really hard.

Travelling – unless you’re on a beach vacation – is hard work and between unreliable wifi, time spent in transportation, and the stress of constantly moving places, working soon becomes a second priority to rest and play. 

Ideally, you’re travelling with your laptop to experience a new place or country slowly, not in the mad rush of a holidaymaker. Make sure you still work the hours you need and focus on exploring in the evenings and on the weekends.

Often, remote work doesn’t even have to rely all that heavily on the travel part. Sometimes it’s simply nice to be somewhere else, even if you’re keeping the same routines as back home.

Remote work is also a good option for people living in the cold North, which allows you to escape somewhere warmer for a few months.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

You Don’t Have to Work Remotely Abroad

If you’re having a hard time convincing your boss to let you go frolicking abroad for a few months, try thinking a little smaller.

There are probably many wonderful places to experience in your own country, too! (I’m especially jealous of people working remotely for a US company. Visiting the United States basically offers fifty different countries just in itself!)

Accommodation statistics show that more and more people are booking Airbnbs specifically for work-related staycations. You could take a few weeks on the mountains or on the beach, check out the food scene in another city or go visit relatives. 

This gives you all the benefits of working and travelling – you get a change of scenery and new experiences – while not needing to deal with the trickiest parts of working abroad like visas, phone plans, internet troubles or language barriers.

Option: Find a Job that Includes Travel

For many die-hard travellers, working remotely while travelling is not enough. You might want to make travel an inseparable part of your actual work.

Some jobs that include travelling are obviously work in the tourism industry: pilots, flight attendants, cruise ship crew and tour guides all get to see the world while actually getting paid for it.

(So do travel writers, but making money travel blogging can be tough these days, and there are not many full-time employed travel writer’s positions up for grabs in 2024.)

You might also want to find work that allows you to equalise time between work and time off. For example, you could be working four weeks on, four weeks off, which gives you a whole month to travel wherever you want. I’ve met a surprising amount of people working jobs like this – wildlife rangers, bush pilots, and miners, just to mention a few.

So, there you have it – a short teaser trailer to the life of working remotely while travelling.

Does this sound like this could suit you?

If there’s anything good that came out of the last couple of years, it’s more people realising that working remotely and travelling doesn’t just have to be a remote dream (pun intended).

When the pandemic forced many people into their home offices, employers also realised that many jobs could be done outside of the office. (This essentially makes them digital nomad jobs .) This was revolutionary for the new generation of digital nomads and remote workers. 

Many jobs, now, offer the option to work remotely or in a hybrid format with just a couple of days of the week at the actual workplace.

Now, you could just return to the office and forget about palm trees and exotic mountain ranges. But do you really want to do that? 

The digital nomad life is not for everyone but there is a reason why millions of people are trying it out now. The flexibility, freedom, and possibility to experience life in different places is something I value more than anything, and would not change it for the world.

If you’re the least bit curious, take the plunge. What’s the worst that could happen – your boss says no Most likely, your boss is already answering their emails with a daiquiri in hand on a beach in Mexico.

• Once you start nomad-ing, travelling will never be quite the same. This is how becoming a digital nomad changes travel .
• You should go be a nomad – it’s a rockin’ time! Here are the best digitals nomad hostels for some real fun!
• And please don’t hit travel burnout . Remember, balance is KEY!
• I accidentally fell in love with Bali! Here’s why being a Bali nomad is EPIC.
• Or, head west to the beautiful Mexico! Here are all my tips and tricks for being a digital nomad in Mexico .
• Take a look at the best travel jobs to make money while travelling.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Elina Mattila

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What are the Work and Travel programs and how do they work?

Discover the world with work and travel programs. Earn, explore, gain skills and make lifelong friends while experiencing diverse cultures!

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Mar 07, 2024

Work and travel programs are your ticket to an adventure of a lifetime! Imagine this...

You're exploring bustling neon-lit streets and millenary culture of Japan , roadtripping in Australia or hiking through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand . And guess what? You're not just traveling; you have the chance to earn money by working legally in those countries.

This is the magic that work and travel programs bring into your life. They transform globetrotting dreams into reality while helping you earn along the way.

Recommended reading:  Explore exciting work abroad programs for travelers .

What is a Work and Travel program?

A Work and Travel program (often called Working Holiday Visa) merges the thrill of exploration with practicality. It's not just about hopping on planes or backpacking across continents, but rather experiencing life in different corners of the world while earning your keep.

This unique concept enables you to spend considerable time abroad without depleting your savings completely, as you have the right to work legally in the countries that offer this kind of program.

In such programs, travelers can find themselves working full-time or part-time jobs based on what suits their needs best. One common misconception is that jobs are only in farms , and although you could do fruit picking or work in a vineyard , there are many more options available from service industry roles like hospitality and gastronomy positions all the way up to more specialized fields like teaching or childcare .

Beyond financial support, these programs offer much more than meets the eye: they provide a successful learning journey too. You'll gain valuable self-management skills along with well-developed organizational abilities required when juggling between job commitments and exploring new surroundings simultaneously.

For example, you can search about the Working Holiday Visa New Zealand,   Working Holiday Visa Australia , Work & Travel USA  and Working Holiday Canada which allows participants to work and travel in the country for a period of 1 year, extendable to 2 years in some cases if meeting certain criteria. 

To apply, you'll have to meet certain requirements listed on each program's official sites, like age limit (generally 30 y/o), English fluency and nationality of one of the elegible countries. In the case of the Work & Travel USA program, is only targeted to tertiary students.

A way to work and travel around the world wtihout applying for a Working Holiday Visa is through the volunteering platform Worldpackers , of which we'll talk in detail later on this article.

How to find jobs during a Work and Travel program

Now that you know that you can legally work in different countries through Work and Travel programs, let's see how to find jobs once there.

Dive into online job boards

The process of finding a job in Canada, Australia, New Zealand or any other country will be similar to what you would do back home, with the difference that you may not know the local job search sites.

So a good start would be as easy as to google "job search sites Australia/NZ/etc" to have an overview of which are the most popular ones.

Make sure to have a good introductory letter of yourself listing your skills, interests and highlighting your willingness to learn, and an attractive CV.

Reach out to local employers directly

If you've already set foot in your target country, consider reaching out directly to local businesses there. Some employers may value your initiative and might just have openings they haven't advertised yet.

This approach requires more effort but could open doors leading towards unique opportunities unseen by most because they're not widely advertised online. Plus, direct contact allows immediate feedback upon application submission - definitely worth considering over waiting for responses from postings online.

Leverage social media platforms

Social media isn't merely about sharing your wonderful life; it's also an excellent tool when hunting for jobs.

LinkedIn stands out due to its professional focus. Make sure your profile shines bright, then start connecting with companies related to your interest and skills in your target countries.

In addition, joining Facebook groups  about Work and Travel in specific countries or regions often reveals job vacancies posted by members who either know someone leaving their position or simply heard about openings at their workplaces.

Why go on a Work and Travel program?

Work and travel programs are gaining popularity among young travelers. These unique opportunities not only offer an avenue to earn a livable wage but also allow participants to spend considerable time abroad.

Gaining valuable experience & skills while working abroad

A key advantage that comes with these programs is obtaining firsthand experience working abroad , which can be beneficial for future career prospects, including fully remote job options.

Making global connections: friends & networks

You get to meet people from diverse backgrounds, creating lifelong friendships along the way - expanding both personal and professional networks.

Interaction isn't confined within workplaces but extends far beyond, as you'll probably have international flatmates as well.

In addition, making friends overseas helps ease any homesickness feelings as they become part of your support network.

An opportunity to explore new cultures and places

These programs give participants an edge over traditional tourists due to their extended stay, allowing them better insights into local customs and traditions.

This fusion makes every trip not just a fun-filled adventure but also enriches the traveler's perspective towards diverse cultures and societies around the globe, thereby truly embodying the saying "Travel broadens the mind".

Earning while exploring

Earning money while fulfilling wanderlust - sounds too good? Well, that's precisely what work and travel programs offer.

This way, financial stability becomes less daunting as participants get ample room not only to cover their living expenses but also pay for your trip without worrying about budget constraints. This makes traveling financially feasible even if one has limited resources back home.

Check these tips on  How to save money for travel .

Worldpackers' work exchange programs

Besides the work and travel programs and working holiday visas, there's a much more straightforward option to experience living abroad without having to go through complicated bureaucratic processes: work exchange programs !

Worldpackers connect travelers willing to volunteer around the world with local hosts in need of a hand in their projects, whether be a holistic center , an NGO , a local school , a hostel , a permaculture project and many more. 

The main difference with work and travel programs is that by volunteering you don't get paid , but receive accommodation and, more often than not, food and other benefits  in retribution for your help. As you will be volunteering and not receveing a financial payment for it, most countries don't ask for a working permit (such as working holiday visas), meaning that you can participate on a tourist visa. Another benefit is that there isn't an age limit for this, something that stop travelers over 30 to participate in most work and travel programs.

Nevertheless, always check local policies before embarking on any project. Read these  20 questions to ask your Worldpackers hosts before you commit .

Volunteering is not only a way to save money while traveling , but also to make a positive impact in local communities, develop new skills (like learning new languages ) and have a cultural immersion like no other.

To participate, you just need to subscribe to the Worldpackers Community for free and start saving your favorite volunteer positions until you are ready to get verified .

These are some examples of work exchange programs that you could apply for:

• Help build and improve a community kindergarten in Tanzania .
• Help with animal care between beach paradise and mountain adventure in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico .
• Join a spiritual community in Callaway, USA, and work with them in becoming self-sufficient .
• Do you have skills on web development? Then you can make a website for a holistic center in Sweden while staying with them. You'll get yoga lessons and holistic therapies for free as well as accommodation and food.
• Enjoy beautiful Wales while helping in a Flower Field . You'll stay onsite in a fully equiped touring caravan!

Know more about Worldpackers:  How to volunteer abroad using Worldpackers  and  Traveling with Worldpackers: your top questions answered .

If you like these tips, follow Worldpackers social media to keep up with the news: we are on Instagram and Tiktok .

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Aug 09, 2023

Sep 14, 2023

Hello, how are you? I want to travel and work with you? I am Omar from Morocco

انا ابحث عن عمل انا لدي خبره كبيره في التلحيم وجميع الاعمال اللحام العصريه والتقليديه.

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Work abroad programs: the best opportunities around the world, work exchanges: what kinds of positions are there.

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One of the biggest benefits of remote work is that it allows you to work from anywhere. For some remote workers, this can mean from the comfort of their own home or a local co-working space. But others take advantage of flexible work by working from -- and traveling to -- different locations around the world.

Work and Travel

Digital nomads — location-agnostic remote workers— work from anywhere, and they sometimes take full advantage of that by traveling around the world while still doing their job. And with the increase in workers who identify as digital nomads— 4.8 million Americans as of last year— numerous remote work travel programs have been built to meet the demand of remote workers who want to travel the world with a community of other like-minded people and seek assistance getting set up with housing, co-working spaces, and WiFi in other countries.

This way, digital nomads don't have to travel alone and can live and work with other remote workers, so even without an office, they can still network and build professional and friendly connections.

Remote Work Travel Programs

• Remote Year
• Hacker Paradise
• Coworkations
• Venture with Impact
• No Desk Project

Ready to join the Work From Anywhere Movement? Remote Year is one of the most popular programs for digital nomads, but there are other companies similar to Remote Year too. Take a look at these remote work travel programs and see which will work best for you.

1. Remote Year

Cost: $2,250 per month (varies), cost includes: housing and utilities, travel between itinerary locations, co-working space, professional and social programming.

Remote Year offers four-month and 12-month itineraries that let participants travel to different cities and countries each month of the program. Upcoming itineraries include travel to cities like Kuala Lumpur, Lisbon, Cape Town, and Mexico City, and the program sets up accommodations and co-working spaces for attendees in exciting neighborhoods in each city. For digital nomads who want to minimize hassle and see as much of the world as possible, Remote Year handles the planning, booking, and programming so you can make the most of your team in each city you visit while living and working with a community. Learn more about Remote Year here.

2. Hacker Paradise

Cost: $2,190 per month (varies), cost includes: housing and utilities, co-working space, professional and social programming.

Hacker Paradise is similar to Remote Year in many ways, but offers greater flexibility for participants in planning their travel and length of stay in each location. Participants can travel and work with Hacker Paradise for as little as two weeks, or they can travel with them for months at a time. Upcoming itineraries include trips to Tel Aviv, Medellin, Buenos Aires, and Marrakech. Learn more about Hacker Paradise here.

3. Coworkations

Cost: $2,000 per month, cost includes: housing and utilities, co-working space, travel from airports to accommodations, professional and social programming.

Coworkations offers monthly itineraries in a variety of different cities around the world, which is optimal for the remote worker with a limited amount of time to travel and work as a digital nomad who's looking for hassle-free adventure. Their upcoming itinerary is a trip to Thailand, where you'll work with other entrepreneurs while traveling through Ko Samui. Learn more about Coworkations here.

Cost: $1,400 - $1,900 per month (varies)

Cost includes: housing and utilities, co-working space and fitness studio membership, access to local city hosts.

Behere is a remote working community for women that helps them book housing, co-working spaces, and gym memberships in the city they're visiting. Booking through Behere requires a minimum of a 30-day stay at accommodations listed on its platform, which are always private, and its co-working spaces and fitness studio memberships are premium, too. Women can book in places like Barcelona, Bali, Lisbon, and Prague. This option might be best for women who are comfortable and happier traveling and working alone, versus the community-based options offered by other programs. Learn more about Behere here.

5. Venture with Impact

Cost: $2,100 - $2,500 per month (varies), cost includes: housing and utilities, co-working space, day trips, professional and language support, partnership a with local nonprofit or volunteer organization.

Venture with Impact is all about connecting digital nomads with local volunteer or advocacy opportunities in the cities they're visiting so they can immerse themselves and help others while they travel. Participants can stay in the city they're visiting for trips as short as a month, or they can extend their stays and receive a discounted fee for each additional month they book. Cities participants can visit include Medellin, Lisbon, and Chiang Mai. Learn more about Venture With Impact here.

6. No Desk Project

Cost: $2,900 - $3,499 per retreat.

No Desk Product is a travel booking platform that curates worldwide retreats attendees can purchase, along with discounted travel to those locations. For example, digital nomads can book trips to Bali for yoga and meditation, Buenos Aires and Medellin for dance, and Kolkata for volunteer work. Then, once they've selected a program, they can book travel through the No Desk Project app to the city they're visiting at a discount. This option might be best for digital nomads who want to learn or hone a talent or passion project while they're traveling and working remotely. Learn more about No Desk Project here.

7. WiFi Tribe

Cost: $900 - $2,000 per retreat, cost includes: housing and utilities, co-working space, weekend trips and activities.

WiFi Tribe was started by a group of remote nomads who weren't satisfied with traditional work experiences. This one central "Tribe" has continued to travel, bringing new members who feel the same way about working remotely and experiencing the world. You'll meet new people, network with other members, and gain life-changing experiences throughout the world.

The sessions are broken up into four-week "chapters" that are in a new city around the world. After every four weeks, the group packs up and heads to a new location to work and live. It makes it easy to stay for however many periods as you want, without being stuck in the same location for months on end. The price per chapter is cheaper the more you book, so you'll be incentivized to check out new places! Learn more about WiFi Tribe here.

8. Nomad Academy

Cost:€12,900, cost includes: accommodations, flights between cities, co-working spaces, a premium online course, weekly workshops.

Nomad Academy is much like the other programs, but tailored to include classroom learning experiences. You'll travel through two countries in 12 weeks while taking an online course focused on entrepreneurship. Personal mentoring, workshops, flights, and co-working spaces are all included to help you push yourself and achieve.

Nomad Academy is perfect for those looking to gain valuable entrepreneurial experience while being a digital nomad. It focuses on your own personal growth as well, with workshops and trainings on the practical of the business world and teachings on finding yourself. Their next session will be in Southeast Asia, so start applying! Learn more about Nomad Academy here.

Cost: Depends on location and length of stay

Cost includes: housing and utilities, co-working space.

If you'd like to travel and work but prefer to do it at your own pace, Selina is right for you! It's a platform where you can find separate lodging, co-working spaces, and activities to book all around the world. Pay as you go for lodging or co-working space, or rent surfboards for a fun day in the ocean. It was founded by two surfers, so most locations have great spots for waves as well.

Locations are chosen so that co-working space is included nearby for the benefit of digital nomads. Although they aren't in a combined package, you can choose daily, weekly, or monthly passes depending on the length of your stay. It's perfect for those who aren't sure about being in a dedicated program or work best on their own schedule. Volunteering is essential to Selina, with each member expected to do something during their stay that benefits the local community. Each location has community service programs, such as building local infrastructure, cleaning the environment, or teaching English to locals. Learn more about Selina here.

If you want to travel and work remotely but don't know where to start the process, one of these travel programs might be the right choice for you. To learn more, read about how to become a digital nomad next.

Work Life is Atlassian’s flagship publication dedicated to unleashing the potential of every team through real-life advice, inspiring stories, and thoughtful perspectives from leaders around the world.

Contributing Writer

Work Futurist

Senior Quantitative Researcher, People Insights

Principal Writer

The ultimate guide to work travel

Because let’s just say, it’s no vacation.

For many, the very idea of business travel seems glamorous. You’re exploring the world, wining and dining over fancy dinners, and racking up your airline miles.

But ask any travel for work veteran, and they’ll quickly admit that while there are plenty of perks, the reality isn’t always alluring. Often you’re sprinting through airports, cramming into airline seats, forgetting what time zone you’re in, and drinking watery hotel room coffee.

However, traveling for work is necessary for many working professionals. It’s estimated that Americans took more than 470 million business trips in 2018 alone.

Unfortunately, we can’t make airplane seats bigger, but we can dish out some helpful advice. So, we connected with a couple of experts to create this guide for you.

Our work travel experts

Mike Pacchione is a speech consultant who has flown all over the world for his career. Since 2013, he estimates that he’s taken over 700 flights – adding up to more than 900,000 miles in the air.

Kelsey Castellow is the Senior Communications Manager, Corporate Communications at Atlassian. She travels nearly every month both domestically and internationally in order to collaborate with different teams.

Before you leave

1. choose an airline and stick with them.

It’s tempting to hop around from airline to airline in an effort to score the best prices. But, both of the experts agree that tactic often backfires.

“Choose one airline to go all in on,” Castellow says. “You want the status, and you’ll actually get rewarded quite a bit.” She also mentions that, while she’s not a big proponent of having tons of different credit cards, she thinks it’s worth it to get that airline’s credit card to add to your status and get points back for purchases.

2. Pack the necessities (and then some)

There are a few items that the experts say they always have with them. These include:

• Sanitizing wipes
• Zinc tablets
• Extra pair of socks and underwear

“I always find it difficult to sleep in hotels, so I strongly recommend an eye mask and earplugs,” Pacchione says, mentioning that the Manta Sleep Mask is his personal favorite. 

You will never feel smarter than when you get stranded in a city an extra night and you thought to pack an extra pair of underwear.

It’s also no secret that airplanes and even hotel rooms can be literal petri dishes of bacteria. For that reason, Castellow says she loves sanitizing wipes for wiping down airplane trays and armrests. She’ll also use the wipes in the hotel room for sanitizing commonly-touched items that aren’t a standard part of the cleaning rotation – like lamps, curtain rods, and the television remote.

Even with those precautions, frequent travel can still take a toll. So, Castellow always has zinc tablets in her bag. “Just the stress of travel means my immune system is low, so every time I feel an itch in the back of my throat or something, I’ll take one of those,” she says.

When it comes to the extra pair of…umm…undergarments? “You will never feel smarter than when you get stranded in a city an extra night and you thought to pack those,” Pacchione says. “I always have an extra pair of underwear, socks, and even an extra tube of toothpaste in my computer bag, just in case.”

3. Download your hotel and rental car app

Even if you were conscientious about your flight times, problems still happen – and we’re all familiar with that feeling of panic when the flight is cancelled or overbooked, and we realize that we might need to sleep in a booth at the airport’s McDonald’s.

“As soon as your flight cancels and there are 200 people looking for a hotel room for a night, you have a huge advantage if you can get on your phone and do that quickly – rather than having to call,” Pacchione says.

Similarly with rental cars, Pacchione says having those apps has been hugely helpful when a flight is delayed or canceled. It ends up being faster for him to rent a car and drive to his destination, without having to jockey in line with a bunch of fellow frustrated travelers.

4. Get your hotel game on lock

Seasoned work travelers aren’t shy about making special requests. Castellow joins the rewards programs at select hotel chains as well – which makes it easier for her to request specific rooms when she’s booking a hotel. “For example, I always stay in the same room at a hotel in San Francisco,” she says.

Pacchione says that even if he’s not a rewards member, sometimes he’ll request a specific room number – usually the same one he’s been using at previous hotels. “It’s easier on my brain to not have to remember a new number every night,” he explains.

At the airport

1. get your flight timing right.

Booking a flight for work travel seems simple enough, right? You pick a flight time that works well with your schedule (and isn’t unreasonably priced) and claim your ticket.

Not so fast. Pacchione warns that giving some thought to the timing of your flight can be positive for combating delays and also increasing your chances of landing an upgrade.

“Do not take the last flight out,” warns Pacchione. “Take the second to last one instead. That way, if you get rebooked, you still have an option to get out that same day.”

Do not take the last flight out. I repeat: do not take the last. flight. out.

What about the upgrade game? Securing airline upgrades has become increasingly challenging – but it’s next to impossible during popular flight times. “Don’t take the flights that someone working a nine-to-five day would take,” Pacchione adds. Instead, you should aim for off times. “I used to take the Portland to San Jose flight that left at 10:40AM, and that was always an automatic upgrade,” he says.

2. Know the security rules ahead of time

Chances are, anyone who’s traveling frequently for business within the United States has already signed up for TSA Precheck . If you haven’t already done so, it’s well worth it. “It’s going to save you so much time getting through the airports,” shares Castellow. 

But things can get a little trickier when traveling internationally, which is why Pacchione advises travelers to familiarize themselves with the security regulations of international airport (things like how to deal with electronics and liquids) – before they get there.

Skip the coffee stand that’s right after security, and go to one closer to your gate. “The one right after security always has the longest line,” Pacchione says.

“I held up the line for a solid 20 minutes at Heathrow because I assumed they had the same rules that America does,” Pacchione says. 

So, save yourself (and everybody else) some time and headaches by doing some research beforehand. A simple Google search for “security rules [airport name] airport” should turn up the information you need. 

3. Don’t check your bag

Packing your bag can inspire plenty of stress – but that anxiety is only compounded if you check your luggage and it ends up lost in some random airport.

That’s why Castellow says she packs exclusively in a carry-on. She recognizes that it can feel impossible, but she managed a three-week trip to Europe in only a carry-on bag – so a business trip should be more than doable.

How does she make it work? She uses a hard shell suitcase, which she says accommodates more than one that’s soft-sided. She also loves packing cubes, which she picks up on Amazon. “You can get twice as much in as you would by folding and laying down your clothes,” she says. 

Packing cubes and a hard-shell suitcase should do the trick.

Any woman (and many men) knows that a big challenge with carry-on luggage is figuring out the toiletry situation. It’s tough to fit what you need in that miniscule plastic bag.

That’s why Castellow says a makeup store (specifically Sephora) should be your best friend. “Every time you go into Sephora, you can get up to nine samples,” she says. “Three for skincare, three for makeup, and three for hair products. You can also ask for small samples with every purchase that you make.”

Finally, when it comes to getting everything into a carry-on bag, Castellow says the most encouraging thing is to remind yourself that you can always buy something you weren’t able to bring. “That helps me avoid stressing about getting too much in there,” she says. 

4. Got a layover? Head to the lounge

Another thing that makes airport life a little more comfortable is to invest in a lounge pass for your preferred airline. “It seems expensive, but you get free food, drinks, magazines, newspapers, coffee, and everything,” Castellow adds. “If you’re picking up a coffee and a snack every time you fly anyway, this more than pays for itself if you’re going to be in the airport a lot.” 

Once you’ve landed

1. leave yourself a note.

Pacchione admits that when he first started traveling for work, he was convinced there was no way he’d ever forget where he was. But soon, he was away from home 40 weeks out of every year, and it became increasingly difficult to remember exactly where he was located that week.

Hello self! Today you are in: Toronto

That’s when he decided to implement a tip that his father-in-law recommended: leaving a post-it note on the nightstand to remind him what city he was in. That way, as soon as he rolled over in the morning, he was able to immediately orient himself.

“When I first heard it, I thought it was ridiculous. But there have been a couple of times when it was actually really helpful to see that note that said, ‘You are in New York’ or ‘You are in Seattle,’” Pacchione says. 

2. Develop a system for staying healthy

Frequent travel can really take a toll on your personal health, which is why it’s important that you figure out ways to stay on top of your diet and exercise. How you choose to do this is up to you, but there are a few tips that can be helpful.

Yes, there’s probably a gym in the city you are visiting.

For example, Castellow has ClassPass and a few other memberships so that she can squeeze in a workout every day. “That gives me that sense of normalcy and I don’t feel as sluggish as I would from the extra food and late nights,” she says.

Speaking of food, your diet is admittedly tough to monitor when you’re eating so many meals out, and Pacchione admits that he never wants to totally limit himself – there are only so many salads one person can eat.

His hack for indulging without regret? Only eating half of the portion that’s served to him. He can still enjoy something that tastes good, without overdoing it. 

3. Make time to connect with others

You’re traveling with the purpose of meeting, working, and networking with other people – whether it’s co-workers, clients, vendors, or other industry peers. But, don’t make the mistake of thinking that will happen simply because you’re in the same geographic location.

Be proactive about getting some time on the calendar when you can connect. That could mean lunch, a coffee date, or even a co-working or brainstorming session. 

While you can get these scheduled once you get there, it’s actually smartest to book some of those commitments ahead of time. Not only does that help you punctuate your travel days, but it also ensures you’re making the absolute most of your time there. 

Lost and found: No socks left behind

1. pack as you go.

Especially if you’re in a hotel room for a few days, it doesn’t take long for your own stuff to start blending in. That means you’re that much more likely to forget some of your items there.

Castellow resists the temptation to scatter her own belongings everywhere and instead uses a simple system to make sure she remembers to take everything with her: packing as she goes.

Once she’s in a hotel room, the first thing she does is unpack her suitcase. Then as she wears things or finishes using items, she’ll place them neatly back in her luggage. Not only does it keep all of her stuff centralized, but it also saves her a lot of time and hassle when it’s time to actually pack up and leave. 

2. Take your phone charger with you

What item gets forgotten the most? Yep, phone chargers. In an article for the Wall Street Journal , the Fairmont San Jose in California admits to ending up with about 250 of them each year – and that’s just one hotel in one city.

Pacchione says he’s one of the guilty ones who’d repeatedly leave his phone cord behind, until he implemented this tip. “Right when I wake up in the morning, I unplug the whole thing,” he says. “I don’t just take the phone off the charger, I unplug the whole thing from the wall.”

It’s a seemingly small change, but Pacchione says it’s been undeniably helpful in remembering to toss his charger into his bag. Happy work travels!

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Thanks to AJ Gutierrez, who also contributed to this story.

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Ensure Work Travel Success with these 5 Skill Sets

In our digital world, the 9-to-5 workday is becoming an obsolete relic of the past. Today’s workforce is multi-faceted, adaptable, and spans the globe.

For many workers, traveling is part of the job description. Work travel could mean attending an industry conference, or helping to open a new company branch in another city or country. Some individuals even make travel part of their lifestyle, working wherever the wind takes them. These workers are widely known as digital nomads.

No matter which category you fall in to, you can shine at work , no matter your global location, when you master the following skills.

Language and Communication

When you’re given the opportunity to travel to a foreign country for work, it’s also a chance to learn a new language. But you shouldn’t head abroad with zero knowledge of the native language.

Several weeks prior to your departure, start learning basic words and phrases in your destination’s primary language, such as:

• “Hello, my name is [Name]”
• “Thank you”
• “Please”
• “Excuse me. Where is [street name or building]”

There are many apps on the market that can help you learn a new language, including Mindsnacks and Duolingo. Conversely, you could also find a private language tutor in your community, since immersion is one of the best ways to learn a foreign language .

Another aspect of interpersonal communication is body language, and understanding its nuances can help you bridge any language gaps. Make sure you understand what certain gestures mean in your intended destination as body language can sometimes get lost in translation.

For example, the American “okay” hand symbol , where your index finger and thumb form a circle, leaving the other fingers up, is a vulgar gesture in Brazil. And in France, the same symbol means that something is worthless. A small amount of research on body language and common gestures can help you avoid committing an unforgivable social faux pas.

Business Writing

Workplace communication can be both verbal and written and, whatever your industry, the hard skill of writing is likely part of your workload. While you don’t have to be a professional writer to get your point across, you’ll need at least basic writing skills in order to succeed in any industry.

But cultivating business writing skills will give you a leg up when it comes to work travel. You may need to draft proposals or memorandums, as well as plenty of emails, as part of your job. These types of writing, which can address either internal or external audiences, are referred to as “business” or “professional” writing.

If you’re worried that the language barrier will hinder your business writing during work travel overseas, invest in translation software or consider enlisting the help of a local who speaks the native language.

A Well-Rounded Soft Skill Set

It’s been said that the majority of success lies with your soft skills , rather than hard skills. Technical knowledge of your industry is a hard skill, while soft skills include more tangible traits, such as the ability to communicate effectively, cooperation, and independence.

When you’ve mastered soft skills such as attention to detail, integrity, and dependability, you’re more likely to succeed in your career, during your work travel trip and into the future. After all, your employer likely chose you to take on a work travel assignment because you’re dependable, honest, and self-motivated.

What’s more, soft skills are integral to the work travel experience as you may experience a bit of culture shock in your new location. Your ability to adapt to cultural differences can mean the difference between success and failure.

Adaptability and Leadership

As we have previously mentioned, flexibility and adaptability are key elements of a successful work travel experience. And according to Scientific American, humans are the most adaptive species on the planet . This trait has helped humanity survive over the long-term, allowing us to forge strong relationships and effectively communicate.

“The evolution of the brain is the most obvious example of how we evolve to adapt,” said Rick Potts, director of the Human Origins Program at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. “But in the modern era, we know that in the human genome there are all kinds of interactions that allow human organisms to have plasticity -- the capacity to adjust is itself an evolved characteristic.”

What helped our ancestors thrive and become the world’s dominant species is the same trait that creates great leaders. Work travel often puts those leadership skills to the test. Confidence and positivity are the cornerstones of adaptability, while rigidity and discontent are their diametric opposites.

At its core, adaptability means being prepared for anything, both the positive and the negative. If your work travels involve setting up a new company branch, make sure to leave plenty of room for trial and error. Tactics and ideas that work in one locale may not translate well to another setting.

Budgeting and Money Management

Not all work travel skills are directly connected to work performance. You’ll have plenty of downtime during your work travel adventure, and you can make the most of it by keeping your finances in check.

Exchange rates can be confusing, so it can be easy to go overboard where work travel spending is concerned. No matter the length of your stay, it’s in your best interest to have a budget plan in place before your flight takes off.

Determine the maximum amount that you can realistically spend on your trip without going into debt, and then allocate those funds evenly to the number of days you’ll be out of town or out of the country. It may also be in your best interest to put some funds aside in case of emergency, as well.

Further Reading from Skills You Need

The Skills You Need Guide to Personal Development

Learn how to set yourself effective personal goals and find the motivation you need to achieve them. This is the essence of personal development, a set of skills designed to help you reach your full potential, at work, in study and in your personal life.

The second edition of or bestselling eBook is ideal for anyone who wants to improve their skills and learning potential, and it is full of easy-to-follow, practical information.

Final Thoughts

The opportunity to travel for work is an exciting endeavor for professionals in every industry. However, it would be a mistake to take on a work travel assignment without a well-equipped toolkit, which includes communication and leadership skills . These essential work travel skills can help ensure that your work adventure is a successful one.

About the Author

Magnolia Potter is from the Pacific Northwest and writes from time to time. She prefers to cover a variety of topics and not just settle on one. When Magnolia’s not writing, you can find her outdoors or curled up with a good book.

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How to travel for work and not be exhausted

If you love to travel but need to work, there are a lot of great options. Traveling for work has always been a popular option for many. Work travel has become easier than ever with mobile devices, 4G internet access just about everywhere you go, and more companies allowing their employees to work on the go.

Whether your job inherently requires travel or you’re trying to expand your opportunities with the option of working remotely, traveling for work can get exhausting, stressful, and downright frustrating. Luckily, there are a number of tips and steps you can take to make your life a little easier when you hit the road for work.

Stay in touch

One of the hardest things to do when you travel for work is keeping a good work-life balance. Make sure you’re working toward this balance by keeping in touch with those back home. If you’re leaving your family to head across the country or the world for work, plan some time into each day to call, write, text, or Skype with your loved ones. This keeps you connected in a more real sense, and helps stave off the loneliness and depression that can creep up on you when you’re away from home all the time.

When you’re visiting somewhere new, make sure you plan some time in your schedule to check out the biggest attractions in the area. Who wants to come back home from Paris and say they didn’t get a chance to see the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower? While you may not have time in your schedule to visit everything you want to see, taking an hour or two to enjoy the cities you visit allows you to rejuvenate yourself and enjoy the time you are away from home.

You have a packed schedule and meetings back to back. You’ve decided that your best option is to just get some rest on the plane, and you’ll catch a nap here and there when you can. With this plan, you’re going to quickly run out of steam, and you may start suffering from severe sleep deprivation. Instead of going out for a night on the town after back-to-back meetings, consider heading back to the hotel room for a little R&R.

Getting a good night’s sleep before you head out for your business travel is important as well. Try to put aside the stress and planning that inherently come with business travel and go to bed early so you’re well rested for what comes.

Plan for the unexpected

Let’s be honest here—you’re not always going to have a flawless trip. The most important of all work travel tips is to make sure that you have a backup plan. Many people who travel for work even have a backup plan for their backup plan. Know what you’re going to do if your flight gets delayed or even canceled. How are you going to get from the airport to your hotel if there’s a taxi driver strike? How can you deal with the hotel losing your reservation?

While you don’t have to have a specific plan for any and all possibilities, knowing what you can and should do for major delays can help keep you calm and collected if disaster strikes. Along with this, make sure you plan a little extra time into your schedule to accommodate these mini catastrophes.

When you’re running from meeting to meeting and then grabbing the redeye to the next city, eating well isn’t likely on the top of your priorities list. However, if you want to maximize your energy, feel great, and not get worn out while you’re traveling, eating well is one of the most important things you can do. When you grab fast food on your way out of town or stop at the gas station for a candy bar, you’re not giving your body the proper energy sources it needs to stay healthy.

While you can’t necessarily eat a high-quality meal every time, choosing smarter options on the go doesn’t have to be difficult. Grab an apple or an orange instead of a candy bar. Order the salad instead of the burger and fries. Choose water, not soda, for your drink. These little changes make a huge difference in how you feel during and after your trip.

There is nothing worse than trying to cart around heavy bags from the car to the airport, then from the airport to your hotel, and everywhere in between. You don’t need three formal outfits, five business casual getups, and a few options for late nights when you’re going on a one-day business trip. Choosing the right items to pack isn’t always an easy task, but remember that you can grab a new outfit at a local store just about anywhere you go if what you brought simply doesn’t cut it.

On top of the fact that carrying around a ton of luggage is completely exhausting, think about the cost benefit of packing light. Airlines around the world charge huge fees for checked luggage. If you’re able to effectively pack everything you’ll need in a carry-on, you’ll end up saving yourself a lot of money. While this isn’t always possible, when you’re considering how to travel for work, keeping your luggage to a minimum is important.

Keep up on medications

If you’re on medications for any reason, make sure that you keep up on your medication routine while you’re traveling. Skipping your medications can be disastrous to your health. If you know that you’re going to run out of a medication while you’re gone, talk to your doctor about getting a refill a few days early or sending the prescription to the city where you’re going. Some medications are more dangerous to skip than others, so it’s also a good idea to talk to your doctor about emergency options if you run out while you’re gone.

Exercise on the go

Make an effort to get in a workout on every work trip you take. Not only does this help keep you fit, but it also boosts your immune system, your energy, and your mood. Most hotels today offer a small gym or free access to a local gym. Take advantage of this. Even if you’re only on the treadmill for 20 minutes, you’ll feel better throughout the day. If you don’t have access to a gym, take a walk before your meetings to get your blood pumping and your energy up.

It’s far too tempting to become sedentary when you travel for work, simply because you’re tired or busy. As strange as it may sound, when you add a workout to your day, you’ll feel less tired in the long run.

Travel together

One of the biggest downfalls of traveling for work is that you’re alone a lot of the time. While some people enjoy this, for the most part, it can quickly start to wear on your psyche. When you don’t have companionship, you are much more likely to become angry or depressed. Consider finding a travel buddy to help beat off the travel blues.

Depending on your job, you may be able to have a colleague or even an assistant travel with you. Find out if your travel policies allow you to bring a spouse along once in a while. If none of these are options, head online. There are tons of resources out there to connect business travelers with others in the same situation. Just keep in mind that you need to be careful when seeking out a travel buddy online, and don’t post any personal information to public websites.

Track your journey

If you really want to make the most of your experiences, keep a record of where you go and what you do. Whether this is an online blog that you update with fun facts about the cities you visit, a deep and personal journal accounting for everything you do while you’re gone, or a picture reel of the things you see, having a record is a great way to keep yourself excited about your travel. It’s also a great way to share your experiences with your loved ones.

With these work travel tips, you don’t have to dread the next time your boss asks you to fill in for him at a meeting in Hong Kong . Get excited about your travel and have a great time exploring the world.

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9 Most Inspiring Work & Travel Experiences around the World

Are you desperate to get out exploring but not sure where to start? 

Do you want a job that allows you to have immersive travel experiences but don’t want to be on a boring cruise ship?

Maybe you would like a travel experience that is more hands-on and interactive. Or maybe, you would like to get outside your comfort zone and gain valuable experience as you travel. Learning in a different culture gives you a better impression of the world. 

Well, the ‘Work & Travel’ concept is just the perfect thing for you! Check out five work, and travel experiences below that are sure to inspire a great experience guaranteed to be an adventure of a lifetime! 

Teach and Travel Abroad

Why you should try teaching while traveling abroad.

Do you want to travel abroad and earn a qualification as you do so? Learning how to teach English overseas as you travel abroad is a unique way to explore whilst connecting deeper with the culture.

Furthermore, your work will be helping locals learn a key language skill that will benefit them later in life. Finally, it is one of the most rewarding ways to travel.

Experience-Sharing from a Fellow Teaching-Traveler

Oliver’s story.

Surrounded by new cultures and new languages in your daily life is a truly unique experience! This is what Oliver did when he traveled to Thailand. However, the most rewarding experience for him was discovering a new career in the teaching world, which he continued as he traveled. He even ended up teaching English in Vietnam!

For example, you could go on an adventure teaching English in Thailand. Can you imagine the adventure? Partnering with local teaching organizations and having paid teaching placements upon completion of the TEFL qualification.

Jacqueline’s Story

If you’re looking for a challenge, teaching will throw you in the deep end! We couldn’t believe it while reading Jacqueline’s inspiring story . Jacqueline was teaching English in a school with over 4200 students!

Luckily, she only taught 20 children in a class but was given a lot of autonomy which helped her to quickly gain confidence as she traveled.

Eager to test her abilities further, Jacqueline got her certified open water diver certification whilst living and teaching in Thailand. She is the definitive proof that it just takes stepping out of your comfort zone a little bit to really bring out a spirit of adventure! 

How to Teach and Travel Abroad?

The Global Work and Travel Network offers teaching trips to participate in a 3-4 week class-based TEFL or TESOL course. You’ll learn how to teach English to foreign students.

The best part is that upon completion, you’ll be given an internationally recognized accreditation. It means you can teach English almost anywhere! So if you’re looking to earn as you travel, this is a great way to go about doing it.

Click Here to Learn More

Global Work & Travel provides accommodation, transfers, and cultural activities during the course. In addition, it’s a great way to connect with like-minded individuals embarking on a similar adventure!

You’ll be fully supported on the ground to give you comfort as you travel. It’s great if you’re a first-time solo traveler to know that you have this support should you need it.

Teach & Travel Program Details

Most programs include a 2-week online self-paced training program to help you prepare before you arrive. However, the most unique about this style of trip is how you can travel and work.

Upon completing the course, you’ll travel around different parts of Thailand, working at multiple English teaching camps . You’ll spend 4 days in each spot and be provided with accommodation and food, as well as a small monthly stipend for your work.

Click Here to See the latest opportunities

It’s a great setup for people who want to travel to the max as they work! We love teaching as you travel abroad because you receive a unique qualification that is internationally recognized by employers. It’s a great addition to your resume! Sounds perfect, right? 

Volunteer and Travel Abroad 

Why you should try volunteering while traveling abroad.

Volunteering abroad can be one of the most rewarding experiences. If you’re looking for an experience where your impact is making a difference for the better, then this might be a great option for you.

Global Work and Travel also help to place Australians and Kiwis abroad in working holidays roles. It’s a great program for our down-under readers, and the places they offer are amazing! They also offer hands-on wildlife projects, one of our favorites being the South Africa Work and Travel opportunity.

Volunteer & Travel Experience-Sharing

Bianca’s Volunteering story certainly was a testament to this. After leaving her home country to travel to South Africa for six weeks, she decided to book with IWH for safety and support on the ground. As a result, Bianca could volunteer at a wildlife sanctuary she never would have found whilst searching independently.

Sometimes going through an agency works better than attempting to tackle a country on your own accord. Bianca’s story is a testament to this. They are so connected with bespoke and real opportunities that it might be hard to find self-scrolling online.

Even when Bianca made last-minute changes to her travel program, she had the full support of Global Work & Travel. They offered 24-hour support and adjusted seamlessly to fit Bianca’s needs. From switching airport departure spots to helping her find her guide when she was lost, Bianca felt safe and secure in their hands!

If it’s your first time traveling abroad solo for an extended period of time, then this is an example of the perks of going with an agency. Sometimes you need that security net to aid you in traveling. It doesn’t make you any less adventurous- it means you’re taking your long-term travel plans seriously! 

Not only did Bianca gain valuable summer work experience, but she also met new people and made new friends that she will cherish for life. There’s something special about connecting with people in a new and foreign place. The friendships you forge are much deeper. You are joined together by a distinct mutual understanding.

It’s probably one of the most special elements of spending an extended period of time abroad.

How to Find Travel & Volunteer Experiences?

You can find work and volunteering opportunities all over the world, from the USA to Southeast Asia. There’s guaranteed to be a program to suit everyone.

However, sometimes the destination you think you might want to travel to might not actually be the right option for you. The key to finding the balance between work and travel abroad is open to new possibilities.

Here is how you can volunteer in Costa Rica

You never know what opportunity might stumble upon your way, but if it seems like a sign- jump at it! 

Work, Travel & Practice a Language at the Same Time

How to practice a language while traveling.

Are you concerned about working abroad when English isn’t your first language? Then you could also do it with Work and Travel . Actually, they offer many internships abroad.

Many programs are tailored to students who want to practice and learn another language besides English. For example, as most people would love to learn Italian or Spanish, you’ll find various opportunities in  Italy and Spain.

The internships are focused on the intention of putting travelers in placements that will improve their target language. You can check out a range of positions here . 

We love most about these programs because they offer profile checks, CV/Resume preparation before your departure, so you feel comfortable and to ensure you are qualified to work. Moreover, such career and CV/resume advice us a qualification you can keep for life too, which will make you wonderful for future work abroad opportunities.

The support they offer is world-class, based on the participants’ reviews.

Rafal’s Experience as an Intern

Having a job speaking Spanish was one of Rafal’s favorite aspects of working abroad. The internship he got helped him to develop his future career skill and offered a lot of fun at the same time. After the internship, he perfectly understood how it really is to teach someone, inspire and engage in the world of knowledge.

Kinga Cichewicz – Unsplash

His assignment and daily tasks were enjoyable, and thanks to my boss, he didn’t feel any pressure. That made him more creative and kept his experience at the highest level!

If you are ready to experience similar endeavors, don’t think twice and go for it! 🙂

Other Work and Travel Programs

Work & travel in hospitality .

Go Overseas connects travelers with meaningful work abroad opportunities worldwide. With over 18,000 programs, it can be a little overwhelming knowing where to start. But the platform is full of community reviews to help you decide which program is the best fit for you. In addition, we love how you can search the programs by category.

It means you can quickly cut down on sourcing the important programs that are of the biggest interest to you, without the hassle of endless scrolling! For example, they have a category dedicated entirely to hospitality experiences.

A great company that specializes in hospitality experiences is Scotia Personnel . Their hospitality program helps travelers gain experience in hotels, restaurants, or kitchens. It’s great for people interested in going into tourism or hospitality! The agency connects you with some of the finest hotels in the UK! 

Whitney’s Review about “Go Overseas”

One of our fondest stories comes from Whitney , a Canadian who traveled to the UK after graduating. She had a one-year contract in Oxford as a Food and Beverage Assistant. Fast forward two and a half years later, she was still in Oxford.

She loved working there so much! One of Whitney’s favorite elements of living in Europe was that she could take a flight for less than two hours and be in a completely different country as a result. She traveled to over 15 countries during her time in Oxford… talk about a work-life balance! We love her travel wanderlust. 

Sourced from Shutterstock

Perhaps most special about this story is that Whitney met her husband by living in Oxford for her work travel program! Furthermore, she worked her way up the career ladder to manage her own Ski Chalet in Austria for the winter season. She reflects on her experience with Scotia Personnel as an epic, adventurous, and life-changing experience… Are you ready for your own? 

If you want to work in hospitality in America, it’s necessary to complete a SERVESAFE course. Whilst these typically cost up to $200, traveling with an agency allows you to complete this at a cheaper rate. In addition, it’s a world-recognized catering course, so it’s a great qualification to add to your resume when you return home. 

Adriana’s Experience about “Work & Travel”

Adriana worked in hospitality abroad at Yellowstone National Park. She was spending days working as a waitress in a restaurant within the resort. As a non-native speaker, it was a great way to practice the language.

I t’s also a pretty special job because you meet so many explorers as you work. Hearing other people’s travel stories is one of the most fascinating parts of traveling. It inspires you to go even further!

By working with the National Park, she was given a free pass for any of the excursions going on in the park if there was a spare seat left. Some of these cost up to $100, and she would get these for free! 

Working in hospitality abroad is a great way to interact with new people. In fact, Mustafa referred to this element as the biggest love of working and traveling abroad. As he said, “it’s the people that make the place,” and his time abroad so memorable. 

Work and Travel with an NGO

Traveling abroad with an NGO can be a great way to immerse yourself into a new culture whilst doing good. CIEE is an NGO that works with local agencies to provide on-the-ground support whilst you’re in a new country.

We love the safety that comes with CIEE. They let you embark on your own adventure and be totally autonomous but provide 24/7 emergency assistance. 

Anna’s Experience with CIEE

One of our favorite CIEE stories comes from Anna , who chose to teach English abroad in China. She wanted to learn more about herself by experiencing a totally disparate culture, going completely out of her comfort zone.

Teaching in China influenced her to continue to pursue the teaching job she still has today. Communicating and understanding children’s needs with a different language and culture has made her more patient as a teacher today. It’s one of the most valuable takeaways. 

Emma’s Review with CIEE

We also found Emma’s story very inspiring. Travelling post-covid is certainly a daunting thought. Doing this for a long period is even more disconcerting! But this didn’t stop Emma. She traveled all the way to Ecuador to work at a whale and marine conservation center. Could you imagine anything more freeing?

To be outdoors in nature, in a totally different country after so much time spent indoors. Was it worth the risk? Absolutely! It only took one day for Emma to fall in love with Puerto Lopez, the town of her volunteer center.

She spent her free days sampling delicious local seafood gastronomy and boho-beach shack restaurants watching the sunset over the horizon. So well deserved after a day’s work! 

Final Thoughts about the Best Work & Travel Experiences

So now that you’ve heard some inspiring stories of travelers who have taken the plunge and gone that extra mile, working as they travel! Combining work and travel gives you the freedom to travel for even longer periods of time. Who could say no to that?

The opportunity to immerse yourself even more into a unique culture by living there for an extended period of time is such a special opportunity. So now you’ve seen that it’s possible, and not that hard to arrange through our guide of experiences, what are you waiting for! The perfect work and travel experience is out there waiting for you to grab it! 

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Achraf is the cofounder of Walk Beside Me Blog. He is an expert traveler who spent 10+ years exploring 70+ countries around the world. Thanks to his passion for writing and photography, he could document his journey on 100+ blog posts on Walk Beside Me where he shared all his knowledge, expertise, and advice for like-minded travelers.

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Travel career break resources

15 invaluable career skills you can develop while travelling.

Developing general career skills can be difficult when you are stuck in an everyday working routine. Jumping from one task to another, with no space to reflect, we are rarely challenged in new and different ways. Taking a step back to travel provides a completely different environment and headspace for developing career skills that can otherwise pass you by. Here, we take a look at the life and career skills that travel can help you to develop, why they are important, and strategies for improving them.

As we outline in our guide to maximising your professional development on a travel career break , taking a travel sabbatical does not guarantee you will develop career skills. As with anything in life, the more you put into it, the more you are likely to get out. So, for each example of a career skill we explore below, we suggest ways you can shape your journey to give yourself the best chance of honing it.

In this article:

What are career skills?

Career skills are a set of personal qualities, attributes and competencies that enable you to thrive in a variety of working environments. For example, the ability to communicate well is a skill that is applicable to a huge range of professions.

Career skills are distinct from specific knowledge applied to a particular profession, for example medicine or engineering. Moreover, career skills are usually highly transferrable and will make you a more attractive proposition to employers on top of the sector-specific knowledge required for a role.

Life and career skills

Many of the skills we outline here will not only be advantageous for your career prospects, but can also make a tremendous difference to your life outside of work. So, let’s take a look at how travel – with the right approach – can give you the confidence to thrive in both your personal life and professional life…

Career skills you can develop while travelling

1.  empathy, why is empathy a useful career skill.

Empathy empowers you to be more understanding of other people’s behaviours and viewpoints. This gives you a better feel for group dynamics and makes you a more effective team-worker, an invaluable skill in almost any working environment. Being empathetic also gives you a deeper understanding of how you affect people around you, enabling you to adjust and adapt.

How will travel help you become more empathetic?

Travel encourages empathy in two significant ways. First, it brings you into contact with people from a multitude of backgrounds, in many cases lesser privileged than your own. Secondly, the more you explore new places, it is also more likely you will meet personal challenges you are unfamiliar with. This combination of eye-opening experiences gives you a deeper appreciation for alternative perspectives in life.

How you can build empathy skills when travelling

Make an active effort to immerse yourself in the places you visit, have conversations with people and learn about the way of life. Try to put yourself in other people’s position, and then reflect on how that might impact your point of view. This short TED talk explores what travel can teach you about empathy:

2.  Resilience

Why is resilience a useful career skill.

Resilience is invaluable in your working life for many reasons. It equips you to deal with conflict, and makes you more open to constructive criticism. It also gives the composure to stay calm in crises, and the strength to get over past mistakes. Ultimately, resilience allows you to stay engaged and focused during difficult times.

How will travel help you become more resilient?

When travelling, things do not always go according to plan. There are always bumps in the road, and so you become accustomed to managing difficult situations and dealing with harsh behaviour towards you. You learn to manage things that are out of your control, and to recover quickly from difficulty.

How you can build resilience when travelling

Travelling innately makes you resilient, and the more you travel, the more it will build. But the best way to develop resilience from travel is to take an independent pathway. Instead of booking organised and catered tours, be the master of your own destiny and go self-guided. This will inevitably bring about challenges and put you into situations that will force you to act under pressure.

3.  Cultural competence

Why is cultural competence a useful career skill.

Cultural competence is a vital skill in the modern world, in which populations are becoming ever-more diverse. Employers today do not only require an understanding of diversity issues, but a deeper ability to communicate across cultural divides. Being attuned to a variety of backgrounds and cultures allows you to operate well among different groups of people and to communicate with different audiences. Furthermore, cultural competence can unlock new career opportunities to work at an international level.

How will travel help you become more culturally competent?

Travel exposes you to a variety of cultures, and thus builds your understanding and enhances your ability to communicate across boundaries. It teaches you to appreciate that being different isn’t wrong, and to recognise your privileges in life. The journey to cultural competence is one that never ends, and we can always learn more – but travel is one of the best pathways towards improvement.

How you can build cultural competence when travelling

The process of building cultural competence through travel is similar to empathy. The more you go out of your way to learn about local cultures, the more you will benefit. Consider visiting countries where the cultures might seem strange or alien to your own, and take the time to reflect on what is different about the culture. For example, when we first travelled in Vietnam, we felt as though people were being rude to us; but the more we explored and learned, we realised that most people were communicating in a way deemed to be socially acceptable, and we were just experiencing some culture shock.

Read more: Susan writes about how travel enables you to value differences in the workplace .

4.  Communication

Why is communication a useful career skill.

Communication is probably the most important and transferrable of all career skills. It transcends all job types and sectors, and extends into many other aspects of life, bringing benefits that reach far beyond work. If you can communicate well, you are more likely to be understood clearly, and to convince others of your point of view. Communication skills also help you to network more effectively and build fruitful working relationships.

How will travel help you become a better communicator?

When travelling, you constantly need to break down communication barriers. You regularly encounter difficulties with getting a message across or understanding what someone is trying to say to you. You learn to be savvy, to read body language better, and to communicate complex problems in a simple way. And you become accustomed to different communication styles and learn to adapt to them.

How you can build communication skills when travelling

Make a conscious effort to put yourself in situations that require communication skills to navigate. For example, take local transport. I remember when we arrived at a bus station in rural Laos early one morning to take a journey across the country. The departure system seemed chaotic and nobody at the terminal spoke English, so we needed to improvise a little in order to get onto the right service. Experiences like this help you to be patient and think imaginatively when it comes to communicating.

5.  Planning

Why is planning a useful career skill.

A good planner can identify their goals and map out what needs to be done in order to succeed. They can evaluate alternative methods to achieve those goals and identify the resources that will be needed to implement them. And once the plan is in motion, the best planners will track progress, evaluate how things are going and take steps to change course if needed. Good planning skills are essential for organising your working life and managing projects of any kind.

How will travel help you become a better planner?

Just like projects in the workplace, travel requires careful planning and the ability to evaluate new information. Every journey has a structure, and once it is in motion, things will change and your plans will need to be adapted. Even if you’re the kind of traveller who goes wherever the wind takes you, you will still need to evaluate and understand your current environment before you can move on, a process that develops your situation analysis skills – the first step of the planning cycle.

How you can build planning skills when travelling

Travel plans rarely turn out perfectly, so take stock and learn from your mistakes. Could that difficult situation have been avoided if you had been better prepared, and if so, what will you do differently next time? For example, after the first few weeks of our round-the-world trip, we were exhausted and realised that we had over-planned our travel schedule. We took a break for a few days and then adjusted our approach, making our itinerary more flexible.

Our guide to planning a round-the-world trip provides a framework to apply to your travel planning.

6.  Goal-setting

Why is goal-setting a useful career skill.

Goal-setting is an essential ingredient of the planning process; it gives you a framework for achieving milestones in your work and career. It gives you the time and headspace to allow you to think about the goals you want to set, and to spend time performing and measuring them. The ability to set goals effectively makes you efficient, gives you momentum, and will later enable you to visualise the processes that have led to your results.

How will travel help you become better at goal-setting?

Travel provides a flexible testing environment to experiment with goal-setting outside of your professional setting. As you are only accountable to yourself, you can test out the techniques that will work for you without any external pressures.

How you can build goal-setting skills when travelling

Use the opportunity to experiment with goal-setting and challenge yourself in a safe environment. You could tie this in with other areas of professional development, for example by setting a goal to make at least two new connections or try a new cultural activity each week. Alternatively, your goal might simply be to let go, or to enjoy life; exploring what that means to you and then seeking to achieve it will help you to succeed. But you also need to be active in order to get positive results. This means recognising your behaviours and thought processes so that you can improve or change them.

7.  Budget management

Why is budget management a useful career skill.

Budget management is an invaluable skill to build for your career, especially if you have aspirations of advancing up the management ladder. Having a sound grasp of budgeting will equip you to understand and plan finances for a business or a department, however big or small.

How will travel help you become more astute with finances?

Long-term travel typically happens on a challenging budget. When you’re watching the pennies over a long period of time, you learn a lot about financial prioritisation and how to manage your money sustainably. You also learn to become savvy with spending and make small amounts go a long way.

How you can build budget management skills when travelling

Incorporate budgeting into your travel planning, even if it’s just making a rough spending plan and breakdown for each place you will visit. Keeping a spreadsheet for finances is helpful, as you can then use it to track what you’ve spent, compare actual costs with what you estimated, and then use that information to budget more accurately in future.

8.  Creativity

Why is creativity a useful career skill.

Every job requires at least a degree of creativity – not just traditionally creative jobs like design or marketing. And as our economies continue to be driven by innovation and technological advances, creativity has never been more important as a career skill. Unlike many skills, it is not something that can be replicated by machine automation. A study by Adobe showed that businesses that look for creativity in employees benefit from higher productivity levels, more satisfied customers and greater financial success.

How will travel help you become more creative?

Travel engages your senses in many new ways, exposing you to unfamiliar sights, sounds, smells and tastes, and stimulating the creative parts of your brain. And this is backed up by research: an oft-cited study by New York’s Columbia Business School demonstrates that cross-cultural experiences increase cognitive flexibility and thus enhance creativity and innovation. Just think about how much great art and literature has been inspired by travel, from Twain to Tolkien.

How you can improve your creativity when travelling

The findings of the Columbia study show that you will only enjoy a creativity boost from travel if you actively engage in the local culture and environment. According to Professor Adam Galinsky, “the key, critical process is multicultural engagement, immersion, and adaptation”.

9.  Language skills (not just learning a language)

Why are language skills useful for your career.

Learning a language has obvious career benefits in terms of opening new doors, but there is also a lot to be gained from developing a broader aptitude for languages. The ability to recognise the linguistic roots of names and words from distinct patterns, and to identify languages based on accents and other vocal mannerisms, can be highly useful in a work setting, especially if you operate in an international environment. It adds to your cultural competence and can improve your efficiency with research and data analysis.

How will travel help you improve your language skills?

Travel exposes you to a different languages and provides an opportunity to learn about them and how to speak them. Even if you do not learn to speak a language while in a place that speaks it natively, you can still gain aptitude for it by building trait recognition from street signs, menus, advertising and other text displays.

How you can build your language skills when travelling

Be adventurous with your travel itinerary and try to incorporate countries that speak different native languages to your own. Learn some basic vocabulary before you visit, practice it while you are there, and also pay attention to the nature of the language in public signage and the way people speak.

10.  Problem-solving

Why is problem-solving a useful career skill.

Problem-solving is applicable to any kind of work and is highly valued by employers. It gives you the ability to navigate the barriers that prevent you from achieving your goals, which ultimately gives you more control over your environment. Problem-solving is useful in so many situations. It’s a skill helps you navigate the tiniest everyday tasks right through to much bigger challenges, like investigating shortcomings in a company’s performance.

How will travel make you a better problem-solver?

Every journey is different, but travel always involves getting from A to B, and things always get in the way. You meet a plethora of challenges and become much more attuned to thinking on your feet to navigate them. We often cite BBC’s Race Across the World on this blog, and this is another area where the show resonates. We saw many examples in action when contestants learned to be better problem-solvers as they voyaged overland through Latin America. Down to their last few pennies, Sam and Jo didn’t have enough money left to travel to Mendoza; thinking on her feet, Jo negotiated with the operator to work on the bus in return for discounted tickets.

How you can improve your problem-solving when travelling

Don’t always stick to the familiar; try heading off the beaten track, and you will naturally encounter more challenges and venture further out of your comfort zone. As with resilience, you are more likely to build problem-solving skills if you travel independently. If you are nervous about navigating cultural differences, then you could first try travelling in a country that shares cultural similarities. For example, before we travelled extensively in South America, we spent some time in Miami, USA, to get used to the challenges of travelling while in a place that shared our language.

11.  Self-awareness and introspection

Why is self-awareness a useful career skill.

The more self-aware you are, the better you will understand how others see you, and be able to identify problems that arise from negative perception. Once you recognise your flaws, you can do something about them. Self-awareness is the perfect counterbalance to empathy, and greatly improves your ability to operate effectively in a team.

How will travel make you more introspective?

Travel makes you more self-aware by giving you space to reflect on your values and behaviours, and to compare them with those displayed in other cultures. A study by three US universities found that living abroad leads to a clearer sense of self. The outcomes showed that when people are able to contrast the differing values and norms between the cultures of their home environment and elsewhere, it triggers a juncture of self-reflection.

How you can build your self-awareness when travelling

The scientists behind the study into travel and self-reflection are the same whose worked showed a link between travel and creativity, and their advice is consistent. Immerse yourself in local cultures, give yourself space to reflect, and be mindful of the contrasts between your own cultural values and those you encounter. You may find it useful to keep a travel journal and make regular notes on your self-reflection.

12.  Curiosity

Why is curiosity a useful career skill.

Careers are about constantly learning and improving, and curiosity empowers you to do this. Curious people ask the right questions and are less likely to get stuck in old habits. It’s a skill that makes you less assumptive and thus more likely to identify problems and overcome them. In essence, curiosity drives innovation and advancement.

How will travel make you more curious?

Travel and curiosity have a kind of chicken-and-egg relationship where one feeds into the other; the more curious you are, the more you want to travel, and the more you travel, the more curious you become. Travel broadens your mind and makes you more curious to find out more about the world around you. A study commissioned by Hilton revealed insights into the way we channel our curiosity through travel; it shows that 90% of people travel to learn something new.

How you can heighten your curiosity when travelling

While travelling, seek activities that expand your mind. Try new tastes, visit museums, ask people questions and learn about the places you visit. After you return home from somewhere, don’t stop learning about it; harness the momentum and continue digesting new information from books, films and more. Keep stoking the curious mind.

Read more: Sam writes about how learning about rice farming in Laos heightened her curiosity skills .

13.  Adaptability

Why is adaptability a useful career skill.

The way we work is ever-evolving, and the most adaptable people are those who will thrive. Adaptability empowers you to shift gears onto a different path, or to cope effectively with changes to the path you are on. It equips you to deal with new information and bumps in the road, and thus also makes you a better leader as you have the aptitude to steer the ship in the necessary direction. Adaptability keeps you relevant in a changing world.

How will travel make you more adaptable?

You will constantly face changing situations when travelling. Every place you visit presents a different environment and a fresh set of challenges. The more you move from place to place, the better you become at adjusting to new circumstances. Every day a new curveball will present itself, and so you learn to let things go and move on. Nobody is better equipped to ditch ‘plan A’ than a seasoned traveller.

How you can improve your adaptability when travelling

Slow travel (spending longer periods of time in a destination to explore it thoroughly soak in the environment) is the most conducive to building cultural competence and self-awareness. But to build adaptability, moving more quickly from place to place can be a lot more effective. To get the most out of a long-term trip, build a varied itinerary that incorporates both these styles of travel.

Read more: Mikaela writes about how travel taught her adaptability skills and strengthened her career .

14.  Analytical thinking

Why is analytical thinking a useful career skill.

Analytical thinking enables you to assess situations effectively and prioritise better. Analysing a situation helps you to recognise when something isn’t working out, whether in a particular project or in your overall career, and take action to change course. A good analytical thinker has the ability to step back from a situation and assess, seeing it through different lenses, and considering all aspects rather than just their individual area of work.

How will travel make you a better analytical thinker?

Travel forces you to take a step back and reassess your life from an outside view. This bigger-picture lens helps you to consider different aspects of your life that have become lost among the tunnel vision of your regular routine. Through travel, you come to see the long-term benefits of slowing down and taking stock. You also come to understand how your actions have an impact on the environment around you.

How you can improve your analytical thinking when travelling

Allow space in your travel plans to pause and reflect, even if it’s just an hour or two each day. Use the opportunity to analyse how you have designed your lifestyle at home, or how you approach your work, and then consider you could make adjustments to change it for the better. Ask ‘what’ and ‘why’ questions about the knock-on effects of your actions; exploring this will enable you to make better-informed decisions.

15.  Confidence

Why is confidence a useful career skill.

You might be full of amazing ideas, but they will only ever bear fruit if you can emanate them to other people. Confidence is the ingredient that empowers you to influence and communicate. It is also invaluable for your personal wellbeing and happiness, which in turn make you more effective in your career. Confidence gives you the assertiveness to take decisive action when it is needed, and thus equips you to deal with crises and become a leader.

How will travel make you more confident?

There’s a reason why post-university gap years are considered so valuable for young people, as it helps them to find their independent spirit. But the same qualities can be built at any stage of life. Travel takes you out of your comfort zone and forces you to think on your toes. It gives you freedom to express who you really are and to become comfortable with that.

How you can build your confidence when travelling

Travel provides you with a testing environment to come out of your shell and find comfort in who you are. Most of the people you meet while travelling you are never going to see again, so make the most of it! Sign up for social events or group tours where you can meet people and make connections. Your confidence will grow naturally the more you put yourself into new social situations.

I would never have had the confidence to start my own business if I hadn’t connected with people while travelling who had successfully done it, and realised that I wasn’t really that different to them. Harness your progress and keep moving forward.

For more on this topic, read our complementary article about how travel can benefit your career .

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Alex trembath.

Alex is the co-founder and lead content creator at Career Gappers. He is an award-winning communications leader with 20 years of leadership experience, a career that has taken him across the world working with international organisations. Alex has travelled to over 50 countries and is a passionate advocate for blending work and travel by taking career breaks, sabbaticals, workations and business trips.

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• Jobs Abroad

Career Break Travel: Breaking Free of the 9 to 5 Grind

Jenny is a globetrotting writer and the founder of Digital Nomad Girls, a community for location ...

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Taking a break from work without consequences. If you’ve been feeling stuck in a rut at work lately, like you’re living the same day, week, and month, over and over again, it might be time to mix things up with a career break. Long gone are the days when gap years were reserved for students only! Taking a break from work is now more popular and acceptable than ever before. You’re never too old, or too far into your career to take a career break and interrupt the boring routine.

Take a chance with these career break ideas.

Contrary to what you might fear, a career break doesn’t have to put your career on hold. Instead, see it as a way to add extra skills, gain a new perspective, and spice up your life if it’s gone a little stale lately. Maybe you’re totally burnt out and ready to change your career completely, or maybe you still love your job but are feeling a little unfulfilled. There are many reasons to take a career break.

Taking a career break or adult gap year is nothing to fear and there are many programs and organizations out there that can help you have the time of your life. There are no limits to what you can do on your career break: volunteer with animals, teach your skills to others, learn a new language, or start a business—the choice is yours.

A well-deserved break from your career will benefit your health, spirit and even your employer. Take a step back from the noise and busyness of the modern working world and jump into your career break adventure, no matter how high up the career ladder you’ve climbed.

In this article, we’ll show you how to break free of the 9-to-5 grind with some incredible career break ideas.

[Download our FREE eBook for even more tips & tales from first time workers abroad]

Career break travel faqs, 1. when can i take a career break.

In your 30s or 40s, you’ll most like have already gotten into a groove in your career and might feel less comfortable taking a career break or that it’s never the right time. If you’re worried you missed the gap year train back when you were fresh out of college, then don’t worry, you can take a break at any time in your career. The biggest mistake people make when it comes to career breaks is not taking one at all and missing out on the experience of a lifetime.

For a long time, gap years were reserved for youngsters, fresh out of high school or university. But with the job market and education landscape changing dramatically, it’s not the case anymore. Employers value life experience, language, and problem-solving skills, all of which you can learn on a career break abroad.

If you’re taking a career break at 30, you could still be eligible for a working holiday visa in Australia, Canada, or other countries. Working holidays can be a great way to help finance your gap year and explore a new country at the same time.

Taking a break from work can actually be an ultra-productive path if you do it right.

Taking a career break at 40 is just as feasible as during your 20s. You might just have to take a little extra time to prepare. It might even be easier to take a career break, because your employer already values and trusts you and might even hold your job for you if you just need a temporary change. Of course, those in their 40s will have more responsibilities, but none of these should stop you from taking a career break. Houses can be rented out, cars and belongings can be sold, and pets can be looked after by friends and family when taking a break from work. Don’t let these ‘obstacles’ hold you back. 

2. What are the benefits of a career break?

Here are some of the biggest benefits of taking a career break at 30 or later:

• Travel!! Of course, you could decide to take a career break and stay at home, but where’s the fun in that? Career breaks are the perfect opportunity to fit a bit of adventure and travel into your life and shake up the routine. You can choose to travel to one country and really immerse yourself, or to travel around a few countries for a few different projects—it’s totally up to you.
• Give back! One of the major benefits of taking a gap year a few years into your career instead of right out of college, is that you’ll have a lot of skills and experience to offer. It gives you the chance to give back. Taking a career break at 40 means you can use your years of work experience to help people and organizations in a meaningful way, giving back to communities and using your leadership skills to create change and make a difference.
• Learn new skills. Just because you’re taking a break from work, doesn’t mean you won’t be adding skills to your resume. Travel is one of the most transformative experiences in life and you will learn so much about yourself and other cultures and communities, as well as gaining new hands-on skills that will make your resume stand out from the crowd. New languages, volunteering, or teaching experience are all highly valued skills in the job market.
• Gain fresh perspectives. Working life with all its responsibilities can be stressful, and burnout is a reality for people throughout the career ladder. So, use this as a chance to get a fresh perspective! Nothing will refresh you and give you a new perspective on your life and career like taking a career break abroad. Immersing yourself in new cultures, meeting new people and crossing a few major items off your bucket list will re-energize you in no time and bring the excitement back into your career again.

3. What are popular career break ideas?

When it comes to picking your career sabbatical, you’re spoilt for choice with all the options available. Most adult gappers have the drive to explore, learn and give back to others in common. Whether it’s teaching English in Korea, joining an archaeological dig in Italy , or preserving rainforests in Costa Rica , the possibilities are endless and the right program for you is out there . Taking a break from work has never been easier (or full of more fun possibilities!).

Live your career break at 30 dreams, maybe even in an actual fairy castle?

Volunteering

Volunteering has long been a popular career break option, and for good reason. Giving back to others can add a lot of meaning to your career break and the skills you learn will look great on your resume. Stepping out of your comfort zone will make you grow as a person and professional. Volunteering can also make taking a sabbatical from your life much more affordable, as many programs offer you room and board in exchange for your help. 

• Check out these popular volunteering opportunities . 
• How to find paid volunteer work abroad

Learning languages

Fancy a bit of ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ during your career break? Why not step into Elizabeth Gilbert’s footsteps and spend part of your gap year learning a new language amongst locals? If you’ve always dreamt of learning Italian in Rome, or Spanish in Argentina, now’s the time!

Learning a new language is fun, challenging, and definitely takes you out of your comfort zone. And while you might not get completely fluent during your career break, adding some new language skills to your CV will impress future employers and can even open up whole new opportunities. Spanish is among the most popular languages to learn during a career break as you can use it in so many different countries. Other popular languages are Mandarin, Japanese, and Arabic, but the choice is yours and you can learn a new language in every country in the world.

• Check out some popular Spanish learning experiences. 
• How to choose the right language school abroad

Short-term jobs abroad

If your budget is limited and you can’t take a whole year off to travel, learn or volunteer, don’t despair. There are a ton of short-term jobs abroad that you can use to supplement your travel fund. A popular option is teaching English abroad, and there are lots of programs out there for older gappers. Make sure you talk with your teaching program before you book to find out about age restrictions in different countries.

• Find some well-paid popular jobs abroad here
• Temporary jobs abroad you’ll love

4. What are potential career break pitfalls?

Before blindly taking a break from work, there are of course many things to consider. Adult gap yearers tend to have more responsibilities than their college or high school counterparts. Do you have a family, children, a house, or a mortgage? Don’t worry, there are programs out there that cater to any type of career break, and many people have successfully taken their kids and partners along on their sabbatical break too.

Here are some of the most common worries amongst adult gappers and how to avoid or overcome them: 

Financing your life sabbatical

The number one thing that prevents adults from taking a career break is the worry of how to fund it. Understandably, financing your career break will be of concern, but money should not hold you back from living your dreams. As we explored above, there are many different takes on career breaks, and working abroad is a great option among them. Leaving your stale 9-to-5 behind to move across the world and take a different job does not mean you’re not doing it right. In fact, many people get restless after a few months of ‘just travel’ and crave finding meaning in work, which could be on a volunteer or paid basis.

It’s not too late to have the backpacking adventure of a lifetime.

No matter whether you’re planning to work during your career break or not, you should definitely make a budget plan to avoid having to return after a few months because you’ve blown your budget (it happens!). Depending on how you design it and which program you pick, career breaks for adults can be costly, so it’s important to write down exactly how much you’ll need every month and add a buffer for emergencies and special occasions.

The key to financing your gap year is to plan ahead and start saving as early as possible while you’re still in your 9-to-5 job. Write down what you spend your money on every day, week and month and then find clever ways to cut down your costs. Do you really need Netflix, Hulu, and cable? You’ll probably want to downsize before taking your career break, so start sorting out the stuff that you don’t need anymore, then sell it and add the proceeds to your travel fund.

Not every career break has to cost the world, but start saving early, look for a job abroad if necessary, and choose a country where the economics fit your budget.

Impact on your career

First off, a career break absolutely doesn’t have to hurt your career and, if done properly, can actually be amazing for it. Before you quit your 9-5 and jet off into the sunset you should really get clear on why you want to take a break, what kind of experiences you’re after and what you want to learn and add to your skillset.

Travel teaches you a whole host of soft and hard skills, and you’ll certainly strengthen your resilience and problem-solving skills. Talk to your employer about whether they offer a sabbatical program that would allow you to take a year of unpaid leave and guarantee that you could return to your job after the break.

To make sure you keep in the loop during career break travel, you can subscribe to magazines or journals in your field and stay connected with your network via LinkedIn while you’re abroad. You could even attend networking events in your new destination during your career break to grow your professional network in your field.

Lack of planning and direction

One of the big dangers when taking a career break is to not plan it properly, get lazy and then not make the most of it. While it’s tempting to take the chilled approach, if you’re after a life-changing experience and an adventure that will add some pizazz back to your life, you can’t just wing it. Taking a year off to catch up on sleep, binge watch The Simpsons reruns, and hang out with your mates is neither going to re-energize you nor impress any employer. A certain amount of spontaneity is great, but you should always have a plan in place to help you avoid wasting your year on meaningless activities and chores.

Instead of a career travel break, why not take your work with you? Try out the digital nomad life!

You can avoid wasting precious time on your career break by making a list of all the experiences you’d like to have, skills you’d like to learn or different ways you’d like to push yourself. Have you always wanted to hike the Inca Trail in Peru? Why not combine that with a language course in Lima and volunteering in a rural school? If you’ve become a bit too comfortable in your 9-to-5 routine, write down five ways that you want to really step out of your comfort zone, like moving to a country where you don’t speak the language or working with people who are completely different to you. 

[ Prepare Early: Download This Planning Timeline We Made Just for You ]

Most-loved locations for career break travel.

When pretty much the whole world is your oyster, deciding where to travel on your career break can be quite a big task, and you might find yourself wanting to go everywhere! Most people pick a destination that they’ve had on their bucket list for a while, but you should also take into account the type of career break you’re looking for, as well as visa requirements and budget, because some career break travel destinations are much more affordable than others.

Thankfully, you can find programs that will help you get set up in almost every country in the world, so get your globe out and pick your dream location.

Here are some of the most-loved destinations for 30-something travel: 

1. Thailand  

The land of smiles is high on many travelers’ bucket lists and is also one of the most popular career break destinations. There are countless opportunities in Thailand, from conservation work to teaching English. Expect warm and friendly locals, and a rich and fascinating culture alongside turquoise seas and delicious food. Thailand really does have it all, along with an incredibly affordable price tag. 

Recommended program

• Greenheart Travel is on a mission to make the world a better place by placing dedicated people with a spark of wanderlust in meaningful projects around the world. From language immersion to volunteering, teaching English to environmental awareness campaigns, Greenheart has projects in over 30 countries.

As far as career break destinations go, Peru really has it all. A rich and fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes, welcoming culture and even llamas. And, of course, a trip to Machu Picchu shouldn’t be missed on any career break in Peru. 

• Love Volunteers connects passionate volunteers with communities around the world. They provide some of the most affordable volunteering opportunities available by working closely with local organizations and making sure the money goes where it should. From Albania to Argentina and Palestine to Peru, Love Volunteers has the right program for you. 

Ah, Bella Italia for a career sabbatical! Who hasn’t dreamt of spending a summer in Tuscany eating pizza and pasta while learning Italian or volunteering at a vineyard? Everything’s possible on a career break in Italy and it’s also a great jumping off point for exploring the rest of Europe while you’re there.

• Geovisions offers excellent au pair programs in Italy—if you love kids or want to become part of a family, this job’s for you. Their programs are open to American, Australian, Canadian, Kiwi, Irish and British participants, and salaries and stipends vary.

[ Browse ALL Jobs Abroad for Career Breakers ]

Your career sabbatical is just around the corner.

Get ready to meet a new version of yourself—one that embraces adventure and defines success on their own terms.

Use your career break travel to re-evaluate what’s most important to you in your personal and professional life, then refocus and get excited about new opportunities. You deserve to take a break and make the best out of your life. So, take the time to explore this beautiful world, destress from your regular work, and get a new lease of life.

Hopefully, your wanderlust has been stoked and you’re ready to take a break from the same old daily routine of your 9-to-5 job with a career break adventure of a lifetime!

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45 Great Jobs You Can Do While Traveling The World And How To Get Them

Looking for the best travel jobs? If you think that you can’t afford to travel the world, finding a job on the road may be just the ticket. Travel’s wonderful, sure, but little things like food and a place to sleep are good too.

The Best Travel Jobs

We’ve found some of the best ideas to get paid as you travel the world , with some help on how to land each job.

Tip! While house sitting may not pay all of your travel bills, it can take a huge bite out of accommodation costs. Trusted Housesitters  is a great place to start.  Check Trusted H ousesitters job listings here.

You should know the basics of sailing for this gig, although some jobs only require a keen willingness to learn and a great attitude. Check out Find a Crew or Crew Seekers  online or ask directly at a local yacht club. Well known jumping off points include Darwin, Phuket, San Diego and Panama. We volunteered as yacht crew for evening cruises at the yacht club in Brisbane and found the club and captains to be friendly and open to our help.

Freelance Travel Writing

Traditional freelance travel writing is a tough gig. The competition is stiff, and the life of a freelance travel writer usually doesn’t pay well (or reliably). Even if you’ve got stellar contacts, don’t expect to get much pay in the first year or so. Even irritatingly talented writers struggle as travel writers.

One of the best places to start looking for freelance writing jobs, and that includes freelance travel writing, is FlexJobs .

FlexJobs screens employers for you. FlexJobs comes with a small, flat monthly fee, but they also vet all of the job opportunities, meaning that there’s a lot less spam to wade through.

FlexJobs is one of the top job boards for remote work, but there is a monthly fee (about $14.95 USD a month).

Check out FlexJobs here.

Check out Virtual Vocations job listings here for freelance writing and plenty of other online jobs. You can try it out for free, but there’s also a paid version.

Looking for help with your resume or CV? Check out a top resume review .

Cruise Ship Work

Cruise ships hire all sorts of folks, from entertainers to waiters to cooks. This type of gig is best for those without kids or a spouse. It may also not be great long term for a digital nomad who needs reliable internet access, since WiFi at sea can be spotty.

Earl from Wandering Earl has used cruise ship work to fund a large part of his 12 years on the road, and wrote a book called How to Get a Job on a Cruise Ship .

Click here check out his book on getting a job on a cruise line .

Royal Caribbean even hires horticulturalists and cupcake supervisors (now that’s a job I could handle). Check out careers at Royal Caribbean  or Carnival Cruise Lines .

Travel Blogging

If you’re the enterprising sort, you can start your own travel blog. You’ll be putting in a lot of work (trust us on this) as you build your blog. Even if your blog becomes well known, you’ll need great business sense and a way to stand out from the crowd before you start bringing in any income. We’d estimate it takes about a year of hard work blogging before you can start to make any real income here (and by real, we mean around $1,000 per month).

Tip: To really enjoy the combination of work and travel, don’t forget about your safety. Here’s when a reliable VPN service may come in handy to protect your online presence and unlock geo-restricted content.

While volunteer jobs by nature don’t pay, some will provide (often very basic) accommodation or meals, or both. Conservation Volunteers  provides basic accommodation, but not meals, in exchange for help on conservation projects. Be careful with this strategy, as many voluntourism placements charge you a significant amount of money to volunteer. This helpful article from Wisebread will point you in the right direction.

If you’ve ever been interested in volunteering on an organic farm, this might be the gig for you. WWOOF (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms) brings together volunteers and farmers. You’ll work a set number of hours in exchange for room and board.

No previous farming experience is required, so all you need to do is check into visa requirements first an you could find yourself on a flight to Europe to work on an organic farm!

Flight Attendant

This is one of those jobs that require travel as part of the career. Flight attendants wages vary depending on the airline, and new employees don’t have a great choice of shifts or destinations. That said, you can still score some great flights while being paid. Airline employees often get substantial discounts on airfare for themselves and their family. Some airlines even allow you to pass on discounts to specified friends.

We always get travel insurance when we travel.

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance covers nearly every country on the planet.

While this is out of the reach of most of us, those with flight experience can score great flights. To become a pilot , you’ll need over 250 hours of flight experience, decent vision, a clear criminal record and good health.

Technical Writer or Editor

If you’re technically (or scientifically) inclined, and have great writing skills, technical writing and editing can be a great gig on the road. Technical writers write everything from website text to software user manuals to detailed computer hardware specifications. I’ve worked as technical writer for the past ten years, both remotely and in cubicle nation. I’d suggest getting a certificate in technical writing and a few clients under your belt before you hit the road. Starting pay is about $25/hour for North American gigs for native English speakers, but experienced writers and editors can earn $60 an hour or more.

Academic Editor or Writer

Academic editors and writers are often in big demand. English is a second language for plenty of students, so

Academic editors and writers are often in big demand. English is a second language for plenty of students, so getting an editor to proofread academic papers is common.

Editors can work on articles all the way from high school to PhD level, depending on their experience. Writers are also in demand with paper writing and editing services, which offer work in fields as diverse as English, biology, and physics.

Busking can be great if you have a skill in some sort of performance art, from singing to drumming or juggling. Pick a busy area to maximize your tips, and be careful not to run afoul of local city ordinances for street performers. Check out the video below of talented electric violinist Ed Alleyne-Johnson doing some busking work to get you motivated. Amazingly, all the music you hear is coming from his violin!

Bartender or Waiter

Depending on the country you’re visiting, you may be able to score a job waiting tables under the table. As you’ll be working illegally, you face a few risks, including being nabbed by the tax man, or even deported. That said, if you’re looking to work in a restaurant or bar, try to find a place where tips are good, as most of your income will come in the form of tips. There’s some helpful info here on traveling and working as a bartender .

Work for Your Accommodation

Many hostels will let you stay for free in exchange for light work around the hostel. While we were in Adelaide, Australia, we exchanged a couple of hours cleaning the hostel each day for a comfy double room with shared bath. All in all, it wasn’t a bad deal, as rooms were going for about $50. You research hostels before you leave on sites like Hostelworld.com .

Peace Corps Volunteer

The Peace Corps is serious business. Only apply if you’re able to commit to a long engagement in what might be a difficult environment. The application process is stringent, and usually includes an interview. The Peace Corps doesn’t pay a lot, but does cover health insurance and deferrals of student loans (for US Citizens), plus a bonus at the end of your term.

Run an Import/Export Business

The premise is simple: Find a product in one country, and sell it for a tidy profit somewhere else. This is perfect if you have a strong entrepreneurial bent, as you’ll have to dig up the product, the market and the suppliers all on your own.

Interpreter or Translator

You’ll need to be fluent in either written (a translator) or spoken (interpreter) two languages or more, and many employers want a university degree in linguistics.

If you can herd groups of confused people, and enjoy talking about the sights, this job might be for you. Tour guides don’t just schlep people around museums; you might even score a job as a wilderness guide. Speaking multiple languages isn’t a must but would be a definite asset.

Tour Organizer

If you can build trip itineraries, plan visas and stay arrangements, group tour organizing might be for you.

Seasonal Fruit or Vegetable Picker

The work is long and hard, but demand is often high for seasonal farm labor in Australia and many other countries in the world. If you’re staying in a New Zealand or Australian city with outlying farms, you should be able to find some work picking crops or shearing sheep.

Because the jobs depend on the harvest, timing can be a bit tricky. Here’s a tip from a backpacker we met in Cairns: Don’t pick watermelons, they weigh a ton and you’ll be exhausted within the first hour.  Anywork Anywhere is a good place to start looking for jobs.

Ethnomusicologist

I have to admit to being a little skeptical when I first ran across this job . Ethnomusicologists are involved in the anthropology of music and study how music and culture relate. The Society for Ethnomusicology  is a good place to start. Grant competition is fierce, and an academic background is highly recommended.

Online Poker Player

While this requires mad poker skills (obviously), the good news is that it’s open to anyone with a good internet connection and a small bankroll to start. According to the FBI, online gambling is illegal in the United States .

Day traders buy and sell stocks and other financial securities online, usually within the space of a day. A word of warning: You really need to know what you’re doing here, as this is a risky job for those without solid experience and knowledge. The large majority of day traders actually lose money .

Scuba Instructor

You’ll need a minimum of a PADI Open Water Scuba instructor course (or a similar accreditation). The more qualifications and specialized courses you take, the more marketable you’ll become. Instructors don’t make a lot of money, but the great perk of this job is that you get to teach in some of the world’s most beautiful locations.

Massage Therapist

While you don’t technically need an accreditation to be a massage therapist in certain countries, it may help you land clients and gigs. There are probably hundreds of styles of massage, ranging from deep tissue to Thai. Pay depends on the country you’re in, but the job can extremely flexible if you work as a freelance massage therapist.

Skiing Instructor

In most parts of the world, ski instructors must take courses and become accredited. Canadian ski instructors earn about $12 an hour to start.

Freelance Photographer

With the advent of digital cameras and the Internet, freelance photography has gotten a lot more competitive. That said, if you have great photography skills and a keen business sense, you may be able to sell some of your travel photos.

Travel Agent

Years ago, being a travel agent was one of the dream jobs for would-be travelers, who dreamed of perks and discounted fares. Today, travel agents are a rarer breed, as commissions have been cut and the internet has allowed consumers to book more of their own trips. You can work as a home based travel agent through a web-based travel agency. Successful travel agents today often offer specialized services that don’t compete with discounted web fares. Commissions and wages these days are low and perks are hard to come by.

An au pair is a nanny who may also be expected to do light housework. A large proportion of au pairs are female, and tend to work in Europe, the US and Canada, and Australia and New Zealand. If you’re looking to cover a lot of ground, this arrangement may not work well, as au pair contracts range from six months and up. Check out the  International Au Pair Organization  to start.

House Sitter

While house sitting may not pay all of your travel bills, it can take a huge bite out of accommodation costs. Trusted Housesitters  is a great places to start.

Check Trusted H ousesitters job listings here.

Also check for caretaking jobs, which generally involve a longer time commitment and increased responsibilities (like taking care of someone’s motel while they’re on vacation). Caretaking jobs often pay a stipend in addition to free accommodation. You can find caretaker jobs through the Caretaker Gazette . There’s a small membership fee for most sites.

Check Caretaker jobs listings here.

If you own an apartment or house, consider swapping for a place at your destination. You can save a fortune in accommodation costs, and often live much better than you would in a hotel.

International Resort Worker

International resorts like Club Med hire a wide variety of people, from electricians to bakers to activities coordinators. Check out Club Med jobs for information.

Time Share Salesperson

The bane of resort goers everywhere, time share salespeople make a commission by convincing vacationers to purchase a partial ownership of a vacation property (or multiple properties). For a set amount of money, the vacationer gets access to a vacation property for one or two weeks per year. Timeshares have taken a beating in the press for scamming vacationers out of their money. Even timeshares on the up and up are often sold with restrictive dates for access, hidden fees and taxes. Check out RCI.com  to get an idea of what kind of time shares are available worldwide.

Work at a Campsite

If you’re the outdoorsy type, you may be able to combine camping and work in Canada and the US. Work camping involves either hooking up your own RV or on-site housing and working as a camp host, desk clerk or even a tour guide. Private campgrounds and national parks like Yellowstone offer seasonal employees RV hookups or onsite housing.

Real Estate Agent

You’ll need to pick a specific area, become knowledgeable in the local real estate market, but many expats make good money as real estate agents, especially specializing in selling to other expats.

Location Independent Businesses

You can take many businesses with you on the road. These are usually computer-based business like website development or computer programming. All you’ll need is a laptop, internet connection, and a mad set of skills and you can work anywhere in the world. Sites like Freelancer.com  let you bid on jobs from all over the globe, while Fiverr gigs are set at a $5 (though you can add on extra services for extra $$).

Check out our article on the best online jobs for travelers for some ideas.

Deckhand on a Cargo Ship

While not as glamorous as working on a luxury cruise liner, working on a container ship can be a more leisurely way to see the world. Workers often acts as lookouts and perform maintenance like painting and maintaining containers. You’ll need a high school diploma and many deckhands have training through industry or labor union schools.

Back in the day, legit international businesses would pay couriers to fly packages as carry on between select destinations. Cheaper and faster international shipping, increased security and transporting docs electronically have made these jobs almost non-existent. Use a lot of caution with courier sites, as most seem to be trying to sell a membership, a supposedly discounted airfare or an outdated e-book written 10 years ago. Courier List, once one of the biggest names in the business, suspended subscriptions because of decreased opportunities.

Transport a Car or RV

Car and RV dealerships or car rental companies sometimes hire people to drive cars to a different destination. Car rental companies sometimes find themselves with too many cars in one destination and want to move them to an area where rentals are more in demand. Car dealerships may need a specific car, with specific options or colors that they arrange to get from another dealer. While most companies work with full time, professional drivers, there may be some opportunities for one time trips. The trick with these jobs is getting a car that’s going where you want to go at the right time. You’ll need a clean driver’s license and may need a specialty license to drive RVs. Transport companies like DAS Auto Shippers and RV Transport  hire drivers. HitTheRoad.ca  is a well known Canadian company that offers mostly long distance, one way, one trip driving contracts for cars, while AutoDriveAway  has listings for the USA.

Camp Counselor

Countries as diverse as Canada, the USA, Croatia and even Russia hire camp counselors. Check out Bitten By the Travel Bug’s helpful  articles on camp counseling .

ESL Teacher

Teaching English as a second language is a well worn staple for travelers, and for good reason. Some countries, like Japan, China and Korea are well traversed by ESL teachers, though there are opportunities around the world. Japan and Korea pay reasonably well, while countries in South and Central America generally pay less. Depending on the country, accommodation may be included in your pay. Many teachers also tutor after hours for extra cash. An English as a Second Language (ESL) Certificate  helps, as does a Bachelor’s degree, though with persistence it’s possible to get a job without either if you have the right connections. If you can figure out a way to break into the field, teaching business English to adults is reputed to pay better. There’s a helpful guide to teaching English abroad here .

Online Teacher or Tutor

Many universities and colleges are moving to online learning. While this is great for students, it’s also a fantastic perk for teachers or tutors, who can work from almost anywhere to teach their online students. An advanced degree is helpful for teaching, but it is possible to teach for a trade or technology school with experience and good connections.

Check out  Teaching Traveling  for a profile of a web and mobile design instructor who worked remotely for nine months while traveling from US to Argentina. The best part of this gig? You’re paid as well as if you were working at home. To find work, browse the teaching listings at university like the University of Phoenix , community colleges, and even technology and trade schools.

Geologists often travel as a requirement of their work. They can work in fields as diverse as oil and gas exploration, climate change and mining. You’ll need a minimum of a four year undergraduate degree .

Join the Military

Joining the military simply to travel seems like a bad idea, given the chance that you could be permanently stationed in your home town, or … well… killed. That said, military service can lead to opportunities to work overseas, though there may be little time for recreation.

Personal or Virtual Assistant

A personal assistant wears a thousand hats, depending on the needs of their employer. Personal connections seem to be critical.

Virtual Assistants offer administrative services to clients from a remote location. Virtual assistant services include scheduling appointments, managing email accounts, managing social media accounts, and more.

Marine or Wildlife Biologist

For nature lovers, the great perk of working as a marine or wildlife biologist can be location. Marine biologists can be stationed in fantastic locations like Hawaii and Costa Rica, while wildlife biologists can be found anywhere on the globe. Biologists need a minimum of a four year undergraduate degree, though researchers who work with universities usually require a PhD.

Internet Affiliate Marketer

Internet affiliate marketers create websites that sell other people’s products and then take a percentage of the sales. While the industry has a smarmy reputation, it is possible to make money through affiliate programs. No formal education is required, but a strong entrepreneurial bent and tech savvy is needed.

Working Holiday and other Visas

If you’re under 35, see if your destination country offers a youth working holiday visa. Many countries have agreements that allow youth to work on a working holiday visa for up to one year. Check out Wikipedia’s list of working holiday visa programs .

When planning to work in a foreign country, check into visa requirements first. In many countries it’s possible to work illegally (under the table), but be aware that there can be consequences that include immediate deportation. Receiving lodging or a stipend for volunteering may fall within the category of working under the table, depending on the country.

We hope we’ve inspired you that there are a lot of ways to make money on your travels . Now get out there and get one of these best travel jobs!

There’s always options if you really want to travel! 🙂

My boyfriend is a programmer on the go. He wrote a post to share some inspiration with other programmers, if anyone is interested or seeking an excuse to hit the road while still working as a programmer.

Hi Zara, Some helpful tips, there! Charles is a programmer, too, coincidentally enough. We’ve found that sites like oDesk and Guru tend to pay less than if we can manage to take our work for existing clients on the road.

Same here, a programmer… who is willing to be on the go….

Great list…hope to put some to use full time one day:)

Hi D.J., These days, I really favor jobs that I can take along with me – the whole digital nomad thing. It’s not quite as glamorous as everyone thinks, but honestly, it beats working in a cubicle 9-5 every day (been there!)

Fantastic list – very inspirational! I’ll send people this way – what a great resource!

Thanks! I know that we struggled with how to find a job when we were traveling, so I hope this can help someone out… 🙂

Quite an extensive list! I’ve looked into more than a few of these in the past (and am even considering a couple of them right now) and they’re all very viable options!

I tried to make a list of jobs that were possible for most folks. I honestly wouldn’t have thought working as yacht crew was viable if Charles and I hadn’t spent time at the yacht club and met a few people. Who knew? Now that we have kids, yacht crew may be out for a few years :), but then again, maybe we’ll get our own catamaran when they’re a bit older and be our own crew. 🙂

Anyone know if it’s necessary to have an ESL teaching certificate? I do not have a degree so thought maybe TESL cert might be helpful but many friends say not so much? Would love some feedback… Great article. Thanks!

Nice to see you here! I’m going to copy my answer from our chat on our Facebook page , in case someone else reading this would like to know.

“From what I’ve read, if you have a Bachelor’s degree, the TESL certificate isn’t necessary for most overseas teaching jobs (it depends very much on what the specific school you’re approaching wants, of course). Some schools will hire a teacher who doesn’t have a bachelors or TESL, but you need to have a connection (like knowing someone in the school who’ll vouch for you), or experience. Since you have experience, I’d say that trumps an TESL certificate for most schools. I’d try contacting one of the schools you’re interested in and asking – you never know, right? Hope that helps a bit… ”

Another good place to start is Nomadic Matt article on TESL certificates .

TEFL cert not that important, but you pretty much have to have a BA/BS in anything unless you have contacts and connections.

Many great ideas and a great single source of links! I can vouch that travel blogging requires a lot more time than the writing time! I would say that my preferred would be one job not mentioned: husband to a high-flying career (business, diplomat, etc.) spouse stationed in a well-located country 😉

Wow Raul, this was Micki’s post however I have to interject my thoughts on what you just wrote. I’m 100% in favor of that and will toss the idea to Micki. If she questions it I’m going to refer her back to you, okay. 😉

Nice article!

That’s a whole lotof jobs to consider! 🙂

Thanks, Tommy. Hopefully, the tips should keep someone well funded for a while 🙂

Fantastic Tips!

I never know we can exchange a hostel stay with cleaning and home Swap!

Opened my eyes really!

Hi Lex, Nice to see you here! I was surprised how many hostels were interested trading light housekeeping for a room. I haven’t tried it, but I’ve heard of people building a small website for a hostel in exchange for a short stay. I’d imagine any kind of barter might work, really, anything from cleaning to carpentry to gardening.

A terrific post jam-packed with great ideas! In short, there’s no reason to stay home.

Hi Terry, So true. I spent a lot of my 20’s working crappy jobs, and barely getting by. Honestly, I could have been traveling and working at the same time, and been just as far ahead financially.

This is a great list of ideas for people looking to travel long-term and work. Thanks very much for sharing!

Hi Emma, you’re welcome. Hope it provides some inspiration.

This is fantastic list and an inspiration for those who are considering travelling indefinitely but wondering how they can continue their journey. I know a lot of friends doing scuba dive instruction in Thailand and the Maldives.

Hi Samuel, Scuba diving in Thailand or the Maldives sounds like a great way to earn money on the road! We took our Open Water PADI course in Ko Tao. Thailand, and loved every second of it.

Great list! Very inspiring to those who may not have realized all the options out there. I’ve been going the digital nomad route myself, but I also love the idea of taking on seasonal jobs in different places. Especially things like campground host would be really fun, I think!

Great tips. But they really fall into two categories, don’t they? The jobs that you can do anywhere in the world which will fund your travels – and those which will also get you actively involved in the local community. I hope people will consider the latter and really see the world while they’re making some cash on the side!

That’s a really great way of thinking about work. Not only can it make you some cash, but working somewhere can help you connect with the local culture and people.

Great list! Some of these are really great suggestions, though some might not work out so well if the end goal is to travel. Getting a pilot’s license is extremely expensive, and it’s a very low paying job for several years when you first start. But picking up jobs along the way, teaching ESL and staring your own location independent business are solid choices. I always thought the different cruise types of jobs sounded interesting, but I don’t think I could handle the seasickness!

Yep, I won’t be taking up flying as a commercial pilot any time soon, either. I’ve had a couple of friends who put in some serious time flying in Northern Canada (mostly for oil and gas companies and flying firefighters up North). They really put in their dues for a lot of years, that’s for sure.

A lot of people are choosing the location independent work route, whether it’s working a regular job remotely, or starting their own business. The idea of sitting under a palm tree with a laptop while getting paid to work is a pretty powerful draw. Though it’s not all it’s made out to be – sand’s pretty tough on keyboards and there’s a lot of glare on the screen 🙂

Hi, What can i do for getting a job the above mentioned 45 list.I am interested to travel the worldwide.So please give the suggestion to get a job in the above mentioned list.

Don, some of these jobs require degrees or certifications. Some are as simple as showing up at the place you want to work. Others require that you apply for the position just as you would in your home country.

It really depends on the job you want, what you’re qualified to do, where in the world you happen to be and whether you want to work for cash only or after filling in the proper paperwork and getting a work visa.

The rest is up to you. Good luck!

Nice article also its nice to date airhostess so you keep getting cheap tickets…. Rest is everyone knows… 🙂

Ah, now that’s the SMART way to go about travel. Ren, I think you’ve got it all figured out 🙂

Very nice post. I simply stumbled upon your weblog and wanted to say that I’ve truly loved surfing around your blog posts. After this I’ll be subscribing to your rss feed and I am hoping you write more often!

Roccia, we’re so glad you stopped by! If you every have any questions, or need any help, give us a shout!

Great list! The best job Ive seen someone have that allowed them to travel with ease was as a hairdresser. They would rock up into a city – put up a sign in the hostel saying $30 a cut and would have queues of people getting a trim – just how they liked it back home. Then they would cash out and move onto the next city.

Peter, now that’s a fantastic idea! Love how enterprising that is – and at $30 a cut, they could make some decent money!

I wrote this article really just to get people thinking about all the options that there are to make money traveling. In my 20’s I worked a LOT of crappy jobs trying to save money to travel, when it would have been just as easy to work on the road.

What a great list! I’ve done a Work & Holiday in Australia and was able to get a couple “real” jobs in marketing that paid well enough to fund my travels (in such an expensive country), but some of these sound really tempting!

Rachael, the working holiday visas are a fantastic way to travel.

Some countries are starting to increase the holiday visas age to 35 for specific visitors (for example, Australian, Canadian and New Zealand residents up to age 35 can visit Italy on a working holiday visa).

Most folks think that the working holiday visas are only for jobs like fruit picking and waiting tables, but you can actually end up with some good jobs (like your marketing jobs) that give some great work experience and pay reasonably well.

Really great list! Thank you, Micky

What an awesome resource for people looking to travel but worried about income! This a great page to bookmark and share around. Thanks for putting this together.

Thanks so much Aloyna and JRinAsia! Glad we helped out.

I took your advice and recently became on online tutor… I started sharing this as well with kids that I tutor who are looking for a job.

Ralph, That’s so wonderful to hear! I tutored for a couple of years as well (though not online), and think it would be a great travel job. Thanks for sharing!

Great list of jobs here. I’ve done / still do many of these. Writing, photography, tour guiding, car delivery, working for accommodation. The only negative experience I’ve had was with hittheroad.ca so I can not recommend that service, but the more skills you have, the better, right?? I’ve travelled with a few geologists…and they get to go to some remote, crazy places…wish I knew that when I was in school.

Some great ideas, travel blogging is a challenge but rewarding.

Great post, great site. We’re a travelling family so always great to read about others. Looking for inspiration to find a new travelling career ideas and help us stay on the road for longer so this is great! Thanks!

Great ideas. This is the dream of all of us to finance our travel with work during our trip.

If you’re a certified teacher, you can easily travel by working in an international school! They pay your flights each year, give you a house or housing allowance, and the salary is usually good enough to travel every glorious school holiday! I’ve been doing it for 6 years now, and I will never go back to Canada to teach… No jobs! I can live in paradise, or a couple hours flight to it. You can’t go wrong! 🙂

Meg – overseas lifer

What an awesome list! It just goes to show that you can do anything if you are creative enough to figure out a niche that aligns with your destination. This is a much harder lifestyle to maintain when you have kids so I always recommend younger travellers go far while they are single:)

Some of these ideas seem really great. The list really is extensive!

I would have never thought to work while traveling, usually that’s my vacation time away from work. Though that could greatly extend your vacation and/or allow you do more if you are constricted by money and expenses. Having some cash inflow allows you to do a lot more than otherwise. Though as an Austin mover I have been lucky enough to travel and see a lot of places while working.

Myself a pilot, I would love to see the entry regarding traveling on a pilot’s wages changed. There is no need to have perfect vision innately. It simply needs to be correctable to perfect. Most contacts and glasses have no problem with this issue.

Andrew, yes it is a common misconception about perfect eyesight and pilots. Contacts and glasses are fine for most airlines if you can see 20/20 with them on. Most fighter pilots need perfect vision (whether naturally or via lasik) however I’m guessing the average traveler doesn’t fall in that category. 😉

Thanks for the comment.

Charles/Micki,

Thank God, I stumbled upon this site, this list is a terrific resource guys, I love traveling and this will help tremedously! In fact, I am in Europe right now, lol. 😉

Always like to stumble blogs I read by accident! I’ve done so many of these – most noteably, teacing English and summer camp work, with a dabbling in blogging, translating, tour guiding, etc. Definitely helps ease the blow!

Great share and post!

Tour guide is a very good way to make extra money while traveling. There are even some people who actually travel TO a country, work as a guide for a few days and vacation a few days.

Ha. Pretty good list. I have actually had a fair few of these. Timeshares was definitely an interesting experience.

I have yet to bartend. Australia maybe on my horizon.

This is great! Thanks for writing it 🙂 I plan to go work and travel Europe in 2014!

easy in theory…..1st: for how many of those jobs do you require a specific specialization? and also the percentage of employer happy to give a job, even if small or temporary,to a stranger traveller and very often from another country?…I’d say not very high,I aqm italian and have constantly travelled for the last twentyfive years (travelling is my life), and my opinion is,that,if it wasn’t for busking,probably, I would’t have never gone all the way I did,nice your ideas though,inspiring.thanks

Amazing post. So far we have been working as English teachers in China and web designers in Cambodia, but there are more job opportunities, as you say, we would like to go for in the future. Greetings from Macau!

Very nice tips. Thank for this. Travel Blogging is the best for me!

Fantastic post! Very useful info! Gave me some ideas of jobs I didnt know you could do!

Excellent list! yardandgroom.com has taken me around the world (before responsibilities & a real job!) It’s great for horsey types who don’t mind serious hard work.

Complete List..but in 2013 and so on, I think Internet Marketing will be a great job. Just traveling worldwide and sit relax in front of your laptop

Wow … A lot of different opportunities listed. Making income from Blogging is tough, but if you have the time, one day it can pay off. I also like the idea of a campground host in the near future. Thanks for sharing!

Great article, so many job apportunities , who would have thought so?? dont stop writting 🙂

Thanks for sharing this wonderful list – so many jobs here I hadn’t even thought of! Ethnomusicologist ;-D

When I was in Australia a girl came into my hostel about every other week and would cut everyones hair and within a few hours would walk out with $200-$300. She didn’t charge much (maybe 10-15 for guys and 20-25 for girls) but most people needed one. She would then head out and party till she ran out of money and start over again. I on the other hand utilized my skills as an entertainment coordinator for hostels and got free accommodation from them and would put on tournaments for money where winner takes all except for the organizing fee i took.

Great list. The working online options are better for persons like myself who don’t travel on a US/Canada/UK passport. Working holiday visas and sometimes just tourist visas can be such a nightmare.

Nice article. There are lots of jobs to do while traveling, I like to work in camp site while traveling to Australia. My main concern is the working permit.

I love walking bare foot on the grass in winter morning.. ahh.. feels so awesome..

I’d love to have more than one of the jobs on the list. This is a comprehensive post!

I was really enjoying your article and stopped at the campground picture because it looked so much like home to me. Imagine my surprise to see it WAS! Paul Lake is basically the closest campground to my hometown of Kamloops, BC, Canada. It was really cool to stumble on this. I am a relatively new single at 42. I am hoping after a few more years of work in a steady well-paying job I will have some freedom to travel extensively. I think you have listed a lot of great ideas and resources. I wonder, do you think a lot of them will apply to me at this stage in my life with no real formal education beyond high school? I am going to send this to my young adult children too. I think travel when you are young is a great idea!

Thanks for the list.

Very useful tips. I wish to use few of these some day.

Great article . Very informative

Hey what about looking after Elephants, or other animals abroad? Is the pay good enough to feed and let you have accommodation? I would be very interested in this type of work…..Let me know….Someone!!

Hi Dianne. There are a lot of places in the world where you can work for room and board however I’m not sure about looking after elephants specifically. I suppose you could get a job abroad in a zoo or perhaps work for a lodge in Africa or India.

There are lots of animal sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers around the world as well so that’s always a possibility however there’s usually a fee involved so it will actually cost you money rather than the other way around. Here are a few sites of that nature: Globalteer , Go Eco or Conservation Volunteers

Most places operate on small grants and donations so being paid to do a job where thousands of people are willing to pay their own way makes it hard to find. That’s not to say it’s impossible however you would have an easier time tracking down a privately owned animal reserve or animal rehab center if you want to actually make money looking after animals abroad.

If you’re lucky enough to have a background in animal biology or animal behavior, you might be able to join an expedition on a grant that would cover your expenses however that level of detail lies far outside the scope of this article.

Dianne, we wish you good luck finding something of this nature and if you do, please come back here and share your findings!

This all sounds pretty amazing….I always wish I had all this info in my early 20’s! Now, I’m more interested in how you guys keep up the travelling with 2 kids! I know from experience that it’s really expensive to travel on poor currency as the Commonwealth countries are 10 – 12 times more expensive!!Currently my husband’s job takes him away from us for 2 months at a time…it would be really great to be able to be a family unit again and still see the world 🙂

It’s always a bit of fun juggling work and travel with our two little ones :).

Wow, and we were trying to think of things we could do when we hit the road. Great list this will come in very useful! Great blog by the way!

Great list! Hope to use that list some day 🙂 Thanks for your post 🙂

Thank you so much for the brilliant as well as comprehensive list !

Fantastic list! I just wish that there were more options eligible for members on non-EU states as for instance House Sitting and House Swamping request you to be from a certain country. Moreover, there’s always visa issues to solve.

WOw its a great combination of two sites including traveling and job information. love your this informative blog…

thanks to share!!!!

Wow, that list is great. I never realized how many different opportunities there were for travelers. I especially like the tour guides. Always thought that would be fun.

Thanks for putting this together, some great ideas I hadn’t thought of! We’ve done a fair bit of volunteering along the way, which saves us money but certainly doesn’t make us any. I’d soooooooo love to volunteer on a sailing yacht for a long trip!

What an awesome list! Thank you so much for sharing!

Are you aware of any online opportunities which require extensive excell/analytical skills which can be done from remote locations? I am fully qualified accountant and auditor but not a huge fan of working in the profession. I really want to travel and try use the skills I have from remote locations…just not sure if those opportunities exist?

Hi Ant. The best way to work online is to try to find a local company that is willing to let you work remotely before you even start traveling. It will be steadier income and if you’re from a wealthier nation then the pay will be more than you’d make in a lot of countries with lower living costs. If you know you’ll be staying someplace that costs less, you can also offer your services for lower than the going rate to help guarantee your position. Because you’re also a local, you speak the same language, have similar views and can meet them in person. A lot of companies have no problem hiring remote workers however a lot of them have trouble outsourcing to employees in foreign companies.

In terms of your skillset, I can think of tons of industries where it would be in demand. Of course anything financial like banks, accounting firms, tax preparers, market analysis experts or any large company’s payroll and HR department need people with analytical skills. You can also browse the jobs on Monster or Workopolis to give you some ideas.

Other than that, there are numerous sites where you can bid on jobs or offer your services on a smaller scale. Odesk, Elance, Guru and Fiverr are 4 that quickly come to mind. You likely won’t be making the same money you could earn with a dedicated position however there are plenty of people that do just as well taking on numerous small contracts and they can pick and choose as they go.

Good luck on your search!

“While you don’t technically need an accreditation to be a massage therapist, it may help you land clients and gigs. There are probably hundreds of styles of massage, ranging from deep tissue to Thai. Pay depends on the country you’re in, but the job can extremely flexible if you work as a freelance massage therapist.”

Please change this horrible piece of information. It’s called a Massage License, and it is absolutely required to legally practice massage therapy in most countries. Here in the US, a MINIMUM of 500 hours from an accredited massage school is required. Upon completion of school, you are then required to pass a state licensing examination. And every state has their own licensing requirements. You cannot just simply start massaging for the hell of it anywhere you want. It is against the law and fairly strictly enforced.

Hi Robbie. Yes, a message license is required in the US and in 3 provinces in Canada it actually falls under the governmental health care service so you are right that in these countries it is illegal to practice without a license. The same holds true for a good portion of Europe and scattered first world countries around the world.

That being said, it’s not governed in a good portion of Asia, South America, Africa and many tropical islands around the world. So like we said, a license helps however we’ve seen many people offering massages in hostels we’ve stayed around the world and I’m pretty sure they weren’t licensed in that country. They all seemed to be making money doing it so obviously it’s a viable business.

In regards to your comment I’ve modified the line to clarify it more. Thanks for pointing that out.

It seems very useful for everyone. Nice info

Great list Micki! As a pilot myself, I can attest to the amazing flight benefits! The sad part is that most pilots probably travel only slightly more on their personal time than non-pilots. Many of my colleges tell me that the last thing they feel like doing after flying at work for 4 or 5 days is hopping on another airplane. It’s sad to see them lose the love for travel. After all, I think that’s why we all got into it.

Add travel nursing to the list! My husband and I started traveling in 2011 and LOVE it. Traveling abroad is a little more difficult but possible. We have stayed in the states but there is plenty to see in this great country. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for adventure and excellent pay.

Flight Attendant…..I’m glad you listed this as people rarely realize how much “perk” travel is associated with being one. I took a “gap year” between my undergrad college & next one to pursue this. It was the best choice I ever made. In the span of one year, I had opportunities to explore US (home base), Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Carribbean (over 15 islands!, often more than 3’xs each!) and this position was held almost 20 years ago. I am now fully into another career but this is always the job employers ask me about first in my interviews. They are very curious about how I became one, where did I go, how did I live out of a suitcase, etc. It was really quite easy. I answered a newspaper ad (yes, I’m that old :-)) and showed up for an open call. From that, about 450+ people were eventually narrowed down to 25 selected for training. My best asset was having a outgoing personality and decent work ethic. After waiting tables in highschool and having a Associates degree, they were happy to have me join. On my days off, I’d jumpseat to other locations and split bills w/ fellow crew members to say, spend 4 days in the Keys to go snorkeling or take 3 days and go explore New Mexico. I think it sounds so daunting and courageous to follow travel dreams by reading blogs but truthfully, once you’re out there doing it, it’s so fun you forget why you had any fears holding you back. Cheers. Here’s to just going for it. We only *know* that we’ve got this 1 life. Right now.

WOW just what I was looking for. Came here by searching for travel jobs

Everyone loves what you guys are up too. This kind of clever wokrk and reporting! Keep up the terrific works guys I’ve incorporated you guys to our blogroll.

I’m a Freelance Photographer and capturing amazing sights to places where I spent my vacation. I even collect photos. Will probably sell my photos nest time. Thanks to your ideas.

That’s a very cool list. Love to explore the world. I am going to try this. Even-thought I have been traveling for the last 5 years with my wife. It helped me a lot since she is a travel nurse and willing to travel 3 months at a time.

Great article. Many choices. What this shows is that you can really put yourself in a no excuse position if travel is your main focus. I have a family of 5. We sold everything and went from a 4700 sq ft house to a 40 sq ft cargo trailer and SUV. For my revenue, I do consulting on 2 fronts: personal and professional. I do business strategy and tactics consulting for businesses and personal accountability and objective acquisition and completion consulting for individuals. Consulting is a great revenue stream as long as you actually know what you are talking about and can adequately relay advice. Anyway, great article. Thanks for sharing and have safe travels and a prosperous future!

Regarding the military option, I can tell you from experience that you would have time for recreational activities. I was stationed in Mannheim, Germany during my time in the Army and I got the chance to travel to surrounding countries during my time there. We had a lot of three or four day weekends that would come up plus all of the holidays. I had a great time during my time in Europe. Unless you’re a barracks rat or a natural homebody, you will more than likely go many places while stationed overseas. Deployment is about the only time you wouldn’t have much in recreation.

WOW! I pinned this for future reference! Very extensive and complete list and many I have never heard of or thought of!

The younger or older you are the more attractive this life style may be. As they say, where there’s a will there’s a way. Of course the more money you can make the better the travel (I’m for that). Thanks for the insight!

I love traveling and these are great ideas. We always stucked and can’t due to jobs issues but now i feel i really travel 🙂 thnx alot!!!

We no longer have any excuses…

Great list, really thorough! I know a lot of my friends think that you’ve gotta be some sort of millionaire to travel, but this serves as proof that it’s not so. There are so many ways to make money on the road. Great job.

Awesome post.

HI Micki, thank you for this extensive list. You provide great information and resources! There really are countless options when you want to finance your travels. When there’s a will, there’s a way!

Thanks to this site i got my job due to this sit i am enjoying

Great list ! And very Wise to recommend checking for the visa situation too…. been there done that and unfortunately it’s not that easy… 🙂

I want to travel the world. What kind of jobs should i take if i start. Can someone help me . I am from India and want to travel the world and get paid while i travel as travelling is my life.

Thanks for sharing such a detailed list!

Thank you so much for such a detailed article. It’s becoming easier and easier to work remotely while travelling and being able to pick up freelance work by advertising on websites like Elance and Upwork (formerly Odesk). If your dream is to travel and visit new places, you can find a way. There’s still plenty of places where it’s very cheap to live and get by, and half decent internet is available in most. It’s how I’ve been living my life for most of the last 15 years and hopefully will continue for many more 🙂

All the best

Working at a campsite, lol it reminds me of Regular Show even though they work at a park.

Well, it caught my interest and would definitely be one of the jobs that I would look for if I would travel the world. TV shows can be super inspiring :U

Thanks for sharing these jobs, these are very useful to me. When I go for travelling, I definitely try some of these.

I came across your website while searching for articles about tolls in Portugal (btw, thanks for sharing your experiences) which led me to continue reading your posts in your travel blogs and tips . I enjoyed reading them especially this one which gave me possibilities to travel without having 9-5 job.

Great stuff guys! Keep up the good work…

Web Design is a great idea too! Can do that sort of thing anywhere with a laptop and internet connection. You meet tones of people and potential clients while travelling meaning you could be doing work for people all over the world!

Hi Micki !! Great ideas, I admire your style of writing and can definitely feel the sense of adventure in each. Good reads !! 🙂

Great post – lots of jobs on there that don’t appear on most lists! You’ve given me a few great ideas!!! Thanks heaps!

Thats a great resource shared.

Wow great list, you thought of almost everything and I totally agree with you that blogging is not easy, it is a real job and you have to take it seriously!

Great list, as always…hope to put some to use full time one day:)

Thanks for sharing!

I really like your post. It’s a great resource for traveler that need extra income. May I suggest a company named VIPKid? VIPKid is a great place to work if you are looking for a job while traveling. I have been with the company for a year now and it’s so rewarding teaching English to students in China. You are able to make between $14 and $22 an hour as well as set your own work schedule. This job affords you the opportunity to earn extra income from anywhere with internet connection. All you need is a Bachelor’s degree, be a native speaker of English and have some teaching experience (formal or informal).

hi, I am currently 17 and a senior in high school, and I am confused I have no idea what I want to do with this life of mine after highschool I want to go to collage that’s for sure but I have no idea for what kind of career I want something that is a high salary and I like traveling a lot so I hope my future career would require that, but most of all I want a career that I like something I would have a passion for I want to do something I love, not just sit at a desk doing paperwork all day, no offence too anyone who does that but my point is I just need some advice here

Fantastic list! Thank you so much for the brilliant as well as comprehensive list !

Traveling with family is the best and most enjoyable

I started travelling by teaching English and that served me really for 5 years until I got into travel blogging! With the list you have though, you’re proving that there are a ton of ways to make your dreams come true these days <3 I recommend to just ask yourself what your passion is, and then work out how you can make money from it 🙂 Then you're laughing 😀

I really love the idea of work for accommodation. It offers an opportunity into the the lives of the locals. Got familiarized with the term recently on Hippohelp. Have you ever used it?

I do online marketing, with blog review, so it is very convenient to travel. I take advantage of these to make money and develop blogs stronger. The work you propose is also good, I will refer and try it!

Great list! Hope to use that list some day 🙂 Thanks for your post

If we enjoy working on cars and are looking for a new career path, consider enrolling in a career training program to become an automotive technician. There are many types of programs in the field.

Nice tips and work mention are really helpful. I definitely use some in my life.

Great tips for those who want to take advantage of their time even travel but I think he needs to have relations with the local people or know people there what do you think?

Such a beautiful blog. its really worthful. thanks for writing this.

Very helpful and motivating article. Thank you!

Great article! It really helps us think about our work opportunities on our 18 month around the world

I like your tip to work for your accommodation when you’re traveling abroad. My brother wants to travel to Canada to work while he’s taking a break from school. I wonder if there is a program that he could go through to get work.

This is such an informative article. Thanks for sharing 🙂

This is an outstanding post that’s filled with so many useful nuggets. Thank you for being so detailed on great Jobs you can do while travelling the world.

Ever since the covid 19 pandemics started, many people have lost their jobs. And just now I was thinking that what are those people doing now whose jobs have been lost. The importance of this post of yours has increased, even more, I have also read it, it is really very factual, that how we can move again along with travel.

Great list, really thorough! I know a lot of my friends think that you’ve gotta be some sort of millionaire to travel

You have post brilliant list of jobs.. I like this article.

Thank You! It’s actually a cool and useful piece of information. I’m satisfied that you simply shared this helpful information with us.

Thanks for these impressive ides. I have already chosen travel blogging to survive for a bike tour but after reading this, I am confident that I can do may other things to fulfill my worldwide bike tour dream

Working whilst travelling the world sounds like an absolute dream! I hope one day I have the guts to take a leap of faith and give it a go!

Thanks for providing these amazing suggestions about the great jobs in which we can travel the world such as pilot, travel blogging, trader, etc. as they will help a lot of people who like to travel and by reading this blog, they will get know about some fabulous opportunities.

Absolutely wonderful article!!! How I would love to travel the world while traveling, But alas I can’t. But I would definitely keep this article in mind, for future references. You never know when you might get the spark to leave all aside and live.

You posted a fantastic list of jobs. This article is good.

Amazing article! In my opinion, this is the best job in the world and everyone wants to travel and get paid for it. See the world without spending money on it and besides being free, this is something worth living for.

I was pleasantly surprised to see that there are a few jobs listed that don’t require a college degree, such as au pair and travel blogger. This is great news for people who might not have the financial resources to go to college but still want to travel and work at the same time.

Great post, thanks for the tips!

I can’t express how much I appreciate you for producing this list of fantastic employment for travellers! There are numerous opportunities. Have you or a loved one worked one of these occupations while on the road?

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Mexico’s 2024 General Election: What to Know

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By Emiliano Rodríguez Mega

Reporting from Mexico City

Why does this election matter?

Who are the candidates, what are the main issues, who is expected to win, when will we learn the result, where can i find out more.

Mexico’s vote on June 2 will be a landmark election in several ways.

It will be the country’s largest election in terms of voters and seats. Nearly 99 million people are expected to cast a ballot for more than 20,000 local, state and congressional posts as well as for the presidency.

And for the first time in the country’s history, Mexico will elect a female president, as the top two candidates running for the office are women.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador cannot run again under the constitution, and he has strongly backed his protégée and fellow Morena party member, Claudia Sheinbaum, who pledges to continue the current leader’s agenda. Her primary opponent is Xóchitl Gálvez, a strong critic of the López Obrador administration who vows to return checks and balances to government.

The winner will be responsible for nominating a new Supreme Court judge. If Ms. Sheinbaum is elected, she is expected to nominate an ally of her Morena party, which could shift the court’s balance at a time when it has stood as a counterweight to the López Obrador administration.

The top two candidates are Ms. Sheinbaum, a physicist and former mayor of Mexico City, and Ms. Gálvez, a former senator and outspoken tech entrepreneur who has often adhered to progressive politics.

Several factors favor Ms. Sheinbaum and her Morena party; above all, perhaps, is Mr. López Obrador’s high approval rating. Ms. Sheinbaum has pledged to continue Mr. López Obrador’s agenda, in large part by consolidating some of his major infrastructure projects, carrying out his austerity measures and preserving his social welfare programs.

Millions of Mexicans have benefited from direct cash transfers and fuel and electricity subsidies under Mr. López Obrador’s administration. But he has also sought to undermine watchdog and electoral institutions and given the military an outsize role in politics and the economy.

By contrast, Ms. Gálvez has pledged a coalition government with a plurality of voices that defends democratic checks and balances. She also proposes to demilitarize the country gradually, withdraw the armed forces from civilian duties and redirect them to fight organized crime, reflecting her argument that the government hasn’t done enough to quell the high levels of cartel violence afflicting Mexico.

However, many voters see the parties that represent Ms. Gálvez as responsible for the legacy of corruption that Mexico has struggled to shake off.

Voters see rising cartel violence as a top election issue . With a few exceptions, the current government has struggled to control the killings, disappearances and acts of extortion ravaging the country.

The violence has not spared this year’s election. Dozens of mayoral hopefuls and local officials have been killed , and more are targeted every month in what analysts say is an even bloodier election season than that of 2018 .

Corruption is another major issue for voters. For years, corruption levels in Mexico have stayed flat , despite the current administration’s promise to end the problem. Public institutions continue to operate without transparency. Federal and state governments have reduced the autonomy of key anticorruption agencies and constrained their budgets and staffs.

There is also a migration crisis. Even as Mexico has increased enforcement and detained more migrants than it has in at least two decades, high numbers of people continue to pass through its southern border to try to reach the United States.

So far, Ms. Sheinbaum has dominated the presidential race, with a lead between 24 and 27 percentage points over Ms. Gálvez.

Though a few opinion polls give an advantage to the governing Morena party in Congress, which already holds a majority, it is unclear whether it will win two-thirds of the seats. Without this supermajority, a Morena party under Ms. Sheinbaum would have to negotiate with the opposition to pass laws.

On election night, preliminary results will be provided in real time by the National Electoral Institute . The vote counts that determine the final result will take place from June 5 to June 8.

A Historic First for Mexico as Two Women Vie for the Presidency

Why Mexico’s Ruling Party Candidate Is Already Dominating the Presidential Race

Who Could Sway the Outcome of the U.S. Election? Mexico’s President

Emiliano Rodríguez Mega is a reporter and researcher for The Times based in Mexico City, covering Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. More about Emiliano Rodríguez Mega

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'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious – even to a thickheaded critic like me – that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max – which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future – where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

Pop Culture Happy Hour

Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines – he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" – and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise – he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep – and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show – throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic – if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses – whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons – to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows – as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.

Do Travel Nurses Get Free Housing?

Housing, travel nurse jobs, travel nursing.

The allure of taking a travel nurse job lies in its promise of professional growth, career flexibility, and the opportunity to explore new places. But, among the many perks of travel nursing, one question often arises: Do travel nurses get free housing? From one perspective, the answer is “yes,” but it’s a little bit more nuanced than free vs. not free. Let’s dive into this topic to understand how travel nurses find housing.

How Does Housing Work for Travel Nurses?

When working with travel nurse agencies, typically they will offer clinicians the option to take a housing stipend or agency-provided housing . Housing provided by the agency is technically considered “free” since it’s included in your pay package, so you don’t need to pay anything extra out of pocket. A team of housing experts will also do all the work to find accommodation that fits your preferences.

A housing stipend, however, is money given to travel nurses to cover the costs and fees of the accommodation they find on their own. If you’re taking a stipend for travel nurse housing, you’ll need to make sure you budget wisely, as you’ll need to find housing that aligns with the amount you receive or else your total cost will exceed your stipend.

How Much Do Travel Nurses Get for Housing?

Unfortunately, there’s no set or guaranteed amount you can expect to receive if you choose to take a housing stipend instead of agency housing. Several factors go into how much you’ll get such as the travel nurse agency you work with, the cost of living in the area, and the duration of the assignment. That’s why it’s extremely important to talk with your recruiter to decide if taking a stipend is the best option for you.

Pros & Cons of Using Agency-Provided Housing

Agency-provided housing offers travel nurses convenience and peace of mind as the staffing agency arranges accommodations on their behalf. This can alleviate the stress and time in finding suitable housing in unfamiliar locations, particularly for travel nurses with limited experience or resources for housing search. Agency-provided housing also often ensures proximity to the healthcare facility, reducing commuting time and facilitating integration into the local community. Plus, agency-provided housing may include utilities and other amenities, eliminating additional expenses.

However, agency-provided housing may have limitations in terms of flexibility and freedom, as you are trusting someone else to plan for you. Furthermore, some travel nurses may find that agency-provided housing lacks the personalization and comfort of independently selected accommodations. Overall, while agency-provided housing offers convenience and cost savings, it’s important to carefully consider preferences and priorities when deciding between agency-provided housing and housing stipends

Pros & Cons of a Stipend for Travel Nurse Housing

Housing stipends for travel nurses come with both advantages and drawbacks. On the positive side, stipends offer flexibility to choose accommodations that suit your preferences and lifestyle. This flexibility extends to factors such as location, amenities, and living arrangements, empowering you to create a comfortable home away from home during assignments. Additionally, housing stipends can provide financial benefits like saving money if you find affordable housing options that cost less than the stipend amount.

However, there are also potential downsides to housing stipends. For instance, travel nurses are responsible for finding and securing their housing, which can be time-consuming and stressful, especially in competitive rental markets. Moreover, housing cost fluctuations or unexpected accommodation challenges can impact the overall experience. Plus, there’s the task of negotiating rental agreements, utilities, and other aspects of housing that can add complexity to the logistical aspects of travel nursing. While housing stipends offer flexibility and financial benefits, they also require careful planning and consideration to ensure a positive housing experience.

Factors to Consider

When evaluating housing options as a travel nurse, there are several factors that you’ll need to consider when searching for your own housing:

• Location: Consider the proximity of the housing to the healthcare facility and amenities such as grocery stores, public transportation, and recreational activities.
• Cost: Evaluate the cost of housing relative to the stipend or budget provided by the agency. Be mindful of additional expenses such as utilities, parking fees, and security deposits.
• Safety and Comfort: Prioritize safety and comfort when selecting housing accommodations. Research the neighborhood, read reviews, and virtually tour the place to ensure it meets your standards.
• Amenities: Assess the amenities the housing offers, such as furnishings, appliances, internet access, and recreational facilities. Determine which amenities are essential for your comfort and convenience during your assignment.

While travel nurses may not receive “free housing” in the traditional sense, they often receive housing stipends or agency-provided accommodations as part of their compensation package. These stipends provide flexibility and autonomy to choose accommodations that suit their preferences and budget. By leveraging resources provided by an agency and utilizing online platforms and communities, travel nurses can confidently navigate the housing market and find housing that enhances their overall travel nursing experience. Apply today and work with the best recruiters and housing team in the industry who will help you through every step of the journey.

Learn more:

Best Travel Nurse Agency: Finding Your Perfect Fit

• Travel Nursing
• What is the Average Salary for a Travel Nurse
• How Much is a Travel Nurse Salary
• What is a Travel Nurse Salary
• Which States Have a Nursing Shortage
• What States Need RNs the Most
• High-Demand Nursing Specialties
• Where Do Travel Nurses Find Housing
• How Do Travel Nurses Find Housing
• Travel Nurse Benefits
• Nurses Week 2024: Celebrate with Discounts & Deals

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