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Home » Work and Travel » 35 BEST Travel Jobs to Make Money While Travelling

35 BEST Travel Jobs to Make Money While Travelling

Do you wish you could travel more but don’t have enough money?

Then this guide is for you! It will tell you all about the types of epic travel jobs that you can do. Ultimately, this post will help you find work and travel the world… FOREVER.

There are a surprising number of jobs that involve travelling, a few canny ways to make money travelling abroad, and even some jobs where you actually get paid to travel… (The best kind!)

From freelancing to affiliate marketing, travel blogging, tending the bar at a hip hostel–there are seriously all kinds of awesome – and some terrible – travel jobs you can get to make ends meet and prolong your travels.

The life of a working traveller is varied and complex: there are countless tools in your arsenal! In today’s post, I’m giving you the lowdown on some of the best travel jobs for backpackers, expats, and aspiring digital nomads. And realistically, for nearly all of them, you don’t need no tertiary education.

Ditch your desk, amigos: the world is waiting and the only thing you need to SUCCEED is  grit.

Nic working on a laptop in Bohinj, near Bled in Slovenia.

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  • Making Money Travelling the World:Types of Travel Work

The 35 Best Travel Jobs in 2024

Did you find your dream travel job, making money travelling the world: types of travel work.

There are lots of different types of travel jobs out there, and they can roughly be broken down into three categories. Let’s take a look at them before we delve into the jobs themselves…

There are some jobs that will pay you to travel the world. This might sound very glamorous at first, but you have to bear in mind you may not get as much of a chance to actually explore as you will be working. These could be travel jobs or potentially even travel careers , but they still generally require the level of input from you that any regular ol’ boring job would.

Jobs that require travel and pay well, such as being an airline pilot or foreign service travel jobs, will offer you a chance to save up mega-cashola and to hopefully see parts of the world during your downtime. But to be honest (and in my opinion) these travel careers don’t have the same kind of freedom as being a digital nomad.

Personally, I’m a big believer in making money through a digital nomad job as these jobs allow you to work from literally anywhere in the world, on your own schedule, and often as your own boss.

It takes time to set up a career as a digital nomad career… But it’s easy to get started now and to begin your journey!

All you need is a laptop plus a few other of the digital nomad essentials , and idea of WHAT you want to do, and a place in the world that you’re content to get some work done from. Well, that and playlist that gets you in the zone!

Beccoming a digital nomad changes how you travel , so for backpackers that want to retain their backpacker-roots, you need a job for backpacker. These travel jobs are job-jobs.

They could be wicked jobs, they could be shitkicker jobs. They could, potentially, also progress into careers, but they wouldn’t be travel careers. You’d just be an expat with a regular ol’ job.

Many of the best travelling jobs for backpackers are super casual affairs – seasonal work or temporary labour gigs. I’ve found paying work on goat farms, behind bars, in hostels, on construction sites, on beaches, and in many other places whilst backpacking around the world. It’s usually very easy to find some casual work as a backpacker.

All you need is a good smile, good work ethic, and maybe the willingess to be paid under the table for less than minimum wage! (Oops, did I say that? You do you.) 😉

travel and tours work

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Let’s look at how to work and travel like a BOSS (or self-employed hustler). Ideas range from online trading to teaching yoga to consulting. Don’t Work Another Day ; we have something for every CV!

1. Make Money Blogging

Starting a blog is one of the best travel jobs out there. You can travel whenever you want and make money out of your adventures to keep you going! However, blogging is not easy and it’s not one of those jobs to make money quickly.

Blogging offers a great introduction to many different digital nomad careers. You’ll learn more about SEO, copywriting, web design, social media management, marketing and PR… the list goes on! All you need to get started is a decent laptop for travel blogging and loads of patience!

If you want to get a taste of blogging before launching your own, you can look into becoming a virtual assistant or if writing is more your thing becoming a freelance service provider , like Sofie Couwenbergh is also a viable option. Working for a blogger is the best way to learn the tricks of the trade!

Full disclosure: The travel blogging industry is competitive, cutthroat, and, honestly, oversaturated. DO expect a long road to the top.

How Much Can You Earn?

  • From $0 – $50,000 per month!

Digital Nomad in Malta

Finding a work-friendly atmosphere is important – check out Tribal Bali …

Having a job is one thing, but being able to sit down and get some work in is a whole other story. Luckily there are amazing coworking spaces all over the globe. But what if you could combine working and a place to live? Say no more…

travel and tours work

Introducing the best Coworking Hostel in the World – Tribal Bali!

A unique coworking and co-living hostel for those that want to travel the world while working from their laptops. Make use of the massive open-air coworking spaces and sip on delicious coffee. If you need a quick screen break, just take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool or grab a drink at the bar. Need more work inspiration?

Staying at a digital nomad-friendly hostel is a really smart way to get more done whilst still enjoying the social life of travelling… Mingle, share ideas, brainstorm, make connections and find your tribe at Tribal Bali!

2. Teach English Abroad

Nic and Shorty playing with a kid in Bagan, Myanmar/ Burma.

For backpackers looking to settle somewhere for a year or more to save up some serious cash, teaching English abroad is one of the best jobs for nomads.

These days, you can teach English in most countries in the world while seeing all the goods they got to offer at the same time! This is probably one of the best travel careers out there: there’s a low barrier to entry and most native speakers can get a travel job teaching English.

Being a native speaker gives you an obvious advantage, but it’s also possible for non-native speakers to get work teaching English too.  You don’t even really need a degree to teach English in many countries, however, nabbing a TEFL certificate through an online course first will help you hit the ground running. (And hopefully will mean you won’t be a crap teacher too ?)

It’s a small investment that will help you score more gigs AND better-paying gigs in the long run. Plus, think of the children! Won’t somebody think of the children!?!?

  • $1500 – $3000 depending on the country.

3. Teach English Online

a girl working on her laptop in a cafe with a view of rice fields in Bali behind her

Thanks to the power of the internet, the world of teaching English online has opened doors to English speakers everywhere! You can work from anywhere! (Provided you have a solid internet connection.)

What’s the best part? Depending on the company you work for, you can choose your own schedule and commitment level. Whatever works for you!

Teaching English online is fast becoming one of the best ways for backpackers to make money online without a doubt. Online teaching platforms connect prospective teachers with keen students. Set your pricing, choose your hours, and market yourself to potential clients.

The money isn’t impressive, particularly in the early days, but this is a job that you can grow and literally do anywhere. Nothing beats a location independent gig!

  • About $1500 per month.

4. Dropshipping

remote worker doing some work at a cafe in Seminyak, bali

Dropshipping is when you ship products to customers, usually in Europe or the USA, from somewhere cheap (usually China). Essentially, you manage the online storefront while a third party handles the logistics of storing and shipping products.

Now, dropshipping CAN be profitable. It can also be a major headache: you have been warned.

5. Affiliate Marketing

Digital nomad in Portugal. Coffee, laptop and work in Lagos.

Affiliate marketing is very simple. It means that you recommend a product or service to your audience, and if someone on your website uses or buys that product or service, you get a commission!

Affiliate marketing is basically being a middle man and is one of the most popular, proven, and sustainable ways to create income online.

If you are interested in online jobs travellers can easily utilise, learning effective affiliate marketing strategies is the holy grail. Passive income is fucking POWERFUL.

  • Oodles but you need the traffic to earn it. But then, it all flows in passively. 😉

6. Crytocurrency and Day Trading

A large sculpture of a Peseta coin, Spain

The exciting world of cryptocurrency investment has come a long way. You can HODL, stake, mine, generate interest (yup – totally a thing now!), and, of course, trade.

Day trading is a really exciting – but very nerve-wracking – way to make money while travelling. I have no experience trading stocks, but a lot of people I know have been trading cryptocurrency for a while now and have seen rather delectables return on their investments (with some losses along the way).

If you have money that you can afford to lose (seriously, this shit carries risk), then day trading is one of the most exciting travel jobs out there right now.

  • The sky’s the limit!

7. Volunteering

shirtless man volunteering in rural india with two kids swinging on his arms

Okiedoke – volunteering! Now, clearly, volunteering ISN’T a travel job, however, it’s functionally the same. You work (hard), you greatly reduce your travel costs, plus you’ll have some life-changing experiences while you’re at it. So it fits the bill!

Now, while voluntourism has received some flak over the years (and the trade has only become stickier in the COVID-times ), volunteering still remains one of the most meaningful ways to travel. A free feed and bed is certainly a win, but it’s the experience and the knowledge that you’re actually making a difference is what makes it, honestly, one of the best travel jobs for backpackers.

You have a lot of good options for volunteering abroad:

  • WWOOF – An organisation primarily concerned with connecting working travellers with volunteering gigs on organic farms and agricultural projects.
  • Workaway (and its numerous alternatives ) – As well as agricultural projects, these guys tend to also connect you to volunteering gigs around the board. Hostel work, translation and copywriting, building skate ramps, building backyard dunnies: it’s a wide net.
  • Worldpackers – Our personal fave platform for this bizz.

Worldpackers is a smashing organisation. They’ve got more of a community focus than many of the alternatives and they run a tight ship too!

We sent one of our tried and true broke backpackers on a volunteering mission to Vietnam and the results were stellar. So stellar, in fact, that we happily partnered with them to bring Broke Backpacker readers a discount on the signup fee!

Just enter the code BROKEBACKPACKER at the checkout when signing up or do the clicky-click below!

travel and tours work

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

We’ve also got a review of Workaway you can peruse if Worldpackers doesn’t float your boat. They’re a bit more stuffy (a natural caveat for being the lead of the pack), but they have volunteering gigs coming out of the ears!

And as one brief little sidenote, it’s worth noting the skills you pick up volunteering can go a LONG way to aiding you in your career as a working traveller. The more you know, the more backpacker jobs open up to you.

8. Become A Freelance Travel Photographer

travel and tours work

If you love taking pictures, why don’t you make the most of your skills and be paid for it? Breaking into freelance photography is no easy, feat but it’s totally possible if you have perseverance and work at honing your craft every day.

You can travel the world forever by snapping away… If you get really good at your craft, you can even land a job that pays you to travel as a professional photographer for either the media or, the dream, National Geographic.

  • $0 – $5000
  • BEST Cameras for Travellers
  • GoPro Alternatives to Make You  Whoah
  • Top Camera Bags – Buyer’s Guide!
  • Essential Camera Accessories You NEED

9. Teach Yoga

a girl going a yoga handstand on a beach

Yoga continues to grow in popularity around the world, and yoga instructors are in high demand. While not the highest paying job for travellers, finding work as a yoga instructor is one of the more assured ways to work and travel.

Travellers love yoga and are keen on lessons just about anywhere in the world. Combine that with hostels, cafes, and community centres (among a million other venues) always being on the lookout

Getting a yoga certification CERTAINLY helps you stand out from the crowd but it necessarily isn’t needed. Talk to other guests at your hostel, or people around any beach, hippy, or traveller town and see what you can rustle up. Start off with a sesh at a world-class yoga retreat to learn a few Asanas and limber up first and the rest will be easy.

Alternatively, head over to Yoga Travel Jobs Directory and see if there are any worthwhile postings. The beauty of this one is that the informality allows you to find work on the road in most places without the added red tape.

  • $5/hour or even less in developing nations. Bounce on over to the northern beaches of Sydney though, and activewear soccer mums eat that shit up for $50+ a pop!

10. Fitness Instructor

Similar to yoga, if you’re in shape and know how to break a sweat, you can get paid to help others do the same! I love finding creative ways to stay in shape while travelling and you’ll find plenty of other travellers who will share this interest.

Will's first fitness competition in Sydney.

See if your hostel wants to organise any activities or events which you can market by word of mouth or by putting a flyer up. Head to a park or the beach and BOOM! You’re a certified fitness instructor… sort of.

Certifications are for losers without glorious, rippling muscles.

11. Tour Director

photo of a tour group led by will having dinner in lahore pakistan

Directors accompany a tour group for the entirety of the itinerary and basically make sure people are having a good time. If it’s a twenty-one-day culture tour through Central America, the tour director is there the entire time, leading the group, answering questions, communicating with the bus driver, and, most importantly, creating solutions when shit goes wrong.

This is one of the travel industry careers that require the most work, but if you think you possess the qualities, there are thousands of amazing adventure tour companies looking for new leaders worldwide.

This industry is very competitive, but once you get your foot in the door you’ll be offered work left and right. I’ve got some experience leading adventure tours myself and this is a solid choice of job that involves travelling… You just need to have endless amounts of energy.

These are maybe the best jobs for travel and adventure for those that seek the high life and the pay ain’t too shabby either!.

  • $1000 – $3000

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We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

12. Travel Tour Guide

Eating Okonomiyaki in Osaka Japan on a street food tour.

As opposed to a tour director, a tour guide usually does shorter tours (think three-hour walking tours). Ideally, tour guides are experts in their niche, but sometimes just a bit more knowledge than the average Joe will suffice

If you have experience or certification, getting tour guide work will be easy. If you travelling in the EU , you can also find tour guide work within Europe relatively easy (free walking tours, etc.) without certification.

Otherwise, there are lots of people on the web tapping into their entrepreneurial spirit and starting their own tour jobs while on the road.

  • $500 – $1500

13. Work on A Boat

A person sitting on a wooden boat with blue sea and jungle covered islands in the distance.

Unfortunately, the days of being a pirate are kinda over, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still work and live on a boat!

A traveller’s job on a boat is certainly easier to get with experience, but sometimes it’s as easy as just walking onto a dock and asking around. Teach yourself to tie knots first and you’ll be golden.

Want to significantly increase your chances of getting hired on a superyacht or boat? Consider taking a course at the Super Yacht School – an online training company that educates people on everything they need to know regarding how to land a job on a superyacht as a crew member.

Alternatively, become a cruise ship worker and live the party-working-travelling-life on the high seas. Drugs, booze, and nights of wanton hedonism – excellent!

  • $1200 – $2500

14. Boat Delivery

Rear view of a boat with views of mountains in the background

More boats! This one is a bit difficult to get into as a newbie, but if you have some experience working on the high seas, boat delivery has some serious work and travel potential. Typically the pay won’t be very high (if at all) but you’ll get your experience up and get to sail the seven seas for free!

Getting into this travel career could lead to more lucrative gigs in the future too, so it’s worth considering if the goal is simply finding jobs that let you travel.

Head over to Crewseekers.net or cruisersforum.com for some killer job leads!

15. Making and Selling Jewellery

handcrafts on the beach working with silver and precious stones

Screw travel jobs – be a travel entrepreneur! While you can make and sell anything, jewellery is certainly the backpacker artisans staple, and I’ve met lots of people who make and sell jewellery whilst travelling .

Some critics of budget backpacking might have a go at you for – ahem – “begpacking” , but to those critics I say… get a job, ya hippy! If you’re wheeling, dealing, and hustling on the road, you are the literal opposite of a begpacker. It’s fun too!

The materials can be cheap and light to carry, it’s an artsy and fun thing to do, and you can set up shop (busking-style) in most places in the world that are kind to street merchants (i.e. not Malaysia). Selling handmade jewellery on the street isn’t the path to becoming a billionaire, but if you can make a decent product, it’s a great way to bring in enough to cover a day of gallivanting.

It isn’t strictly one of the easiest travel jobs out there if you genuinely care about your craft. Sourcing ethical materials, making the jewellery, and haggling for a fair price can all be a real battle. But damn you’ll have some ten-outta-ten adventures along the way!

  • $300 – $1000 per month

16. Importing Stuff to Sell

backpacking-new-zealand-takaka-hippy

A personal favourite of mine, this is what I sometimes refer to as the ‘ stuff your backpack’ method. It’s an easy w ay to make some money back after quitting your job to travel .

When in exotic countries, you will find awesome trinkets and doodads that people back home will go crazy over! Think hippy stuff: chillums, trousers, jewellery, festival belts, etc. These items will be authentic and dirt cheap.

Then, when you are outside that country and back in the good ol’ inflationary West, you can sell the authentic handcrafted Indian peace pipe that you paid $.75 cents for in Mumbai for $15 at festivals or online! It’s a great way to make 1,000% or more on your investments.

To make the most money though, you’ll have to frequently hit the road and stuff your backpack (a big hiking backpack is good for this) as well as have a good eye for stuff to take back home. If you can somehow inject something about chakras into the marketing spiel you’ll give to sell it, it’s a winner.

  • $500 – $2000 per month

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17. Busking

buskers station in wanaka

Another of the world’s oldest professions that now catches some flak from the world’s newest crybabies: busking. If you have a talent, you can flaunt it for some cash in the street AND – better yet – make a bunch of people smile too!

You doen’t have to be a wandering musician with a travel-sized guitar either; magic, acrobatics, juggling, flow, dance – anything that’s impressive enough to score a tip is worth the shot, and you can score some mean tips! (Believe it or not.)

If the artisti di strada chooses the right location and is talented (or smiley) enough, there’s a pretty good chance they are making some dough! Enough to cover a day’s cost at least… You just need to know how to busk !

Also, if you are a musician, you should look into giving lessons for work while travelling or even playing some low-key gigs at bars or hostels. It’s a good way to score a feed, and it’s certainly not a bad payoff for a few hours of jammin’!

The resident in-house dirtbag busker on The Broke Backpacker team had this to say:

“I’ve had $5/hour days, I’ve had $50/hour days; busking is large part luck, however, there is a hidden art and science to the craft.”

18. Scuba Diving Instructor

Two people taking a selfie whilst scuba diving.

Get paid for adventure. Underwater adventures no less!

Becoming a certified scuba diver and instructor takes a bit of investment, but it can be one of the most fun ways to work and travel the world simultaneously. You need a handful of courses and certifications, as well as having logged in a certain amount of hours underwater yourself, and then the world is your… oyster. (Huehuehue.)

If you are already certified, get excited! If you aren’t, you can do it at home, or take advantage of many (significantly cheaper) programs that exist in countries like Thailand and the Philippines. Hands down this is one of the best ways to get paid to travel PLUS you can pick up paying work in lots of different countries around the world.

Plus, y’know, dive for a living. Not bad, ‘ey?

  • $1000 – $4000 per month.

19. Surf Instructor

A person surfing

Similar to a scuba instructor but without all of the need for certifications. You just need to be a badass surfer! Surfing instructors can do well for themselves by travelling, surfing, meeting people who are interested and want to learn, and then offering their services.

Plus, let’s be real… you’ll get laid. A lot.

You won’t earn as much as a scuba instructor, but you’ll be getting paid to surf and travel at the same time which is probably the coolest thing ever! I’m a big fan of surfing and hoping to spend a year or two getting a hell of a lot better in the future. If you are looking for cool jobs you can do while travelling, this may be for you.

There are lots of resources for finding potential gigs. Surf Travel Jobs is an excellent starting point.

  • $500 – $1500 per month.

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20. Buy A Place and Rent It

An old cottage covered in rose bushes and a tin roof near Queenstown, New Zealand.

If you have been working for a while, you may have some savings. Rather than blowing it all on a couple of fast-paced years of travel, invest it into buying a property at home and renting it out whilst you travel (thus living off the rent money).

You can advertise your place on lots of different websites including Airbnb or one of the many excellent sites like Airbnb , and it can very easily turn into big bucks! Pretty soon, you’ll be making money while travelling; so much so that some of my friends don’t even stay at their own place when they return to their hometown.

  • $600 – $2000 per month.

21. Housesitting

Will chilling on the terrace with two white dogs

Sort of a work-exchange-meets-job, housesitting while travelling is HAWT right now. Typically you pet-sit for an extended amount of time, and in return, you are given free rein over an entire house. Housesitting gigs rarely pay, but you can’t really complain as their still jobs that allow you to travel near-indefinitely.

You’ll be getting free accommodation, a big ass kitchen, and the privacy of your own house! This is one of the best ways to travel!

As with all good things, it’s challenging to crack into, but once you gain experience and a resume, you’ll have your choice of gigs. As far as travel work goes, this one comes highly recommended – it barely counts as working!

  • A free house!

22. Work as an Au Pair

Au-pairing is one of the oldest travel careers around and is still a great option to save some money and see the world. Personally, kids ain’t for me, but if you are bubbly, happy, smiley and don’t mind cleaning up the misdirected poopoos, then there are plenty of little ones who need a lovely person like you to help take care of them.

It doesn’t always pay… and if it does pay it’s not always much. But you can earn up to 5k a month if you’re happy to travel for work (which, you should be) to teach in some more far-flung lands.

You’ll get free lodging and food and likely some pocket change for the weekend if you’re volunteering in Europe. Being an au-pair is a pretty solid way to get paid to travel and live in a new country.

  • $0 – $5000 per month.

23. Hostel Work

danielle cooking in a hostel

Hostel work is one of the best-kept not-so-secret-secrets of the budget backpacking trade . Once upon a time, it was hush-hush, but now not so much. So let me tell you – finding hostel gigs is SUPER simple and hostel work is one of the best travel jobs for backpackers.

Hostel work is one of the easiest travel jobs to get – just ask the hostels you are staying at if they are looking for any help. They will know exactly what this means. “Help” means manning the front desk graveyard shift, sweeping the floors, or most likely minding the bar, all in exchange for free accommodation.

If they are looking for any “help” , they miiight pay a bit of cash, but more likely, you’ll get a free bed and some food out of it. Hostels are one of the staples for travel work and are a phenomenal way to save money while travelling – not to mention free entry into the hostel life shenanigans is a pretty sweet dealer for a lone ranger looking for some buds.

…And bud. 😉

  • Usually just a free stay. Maybe some weed money (or weed) if you’re lucky.

24. Bar Work

Two guys working in a bar as bartenders.

Similar to hostel work, bar jobs have kept the backpacker going since basically the dawn of time. Often the bar work will be in a hostel bar (mentioned above) but just as legit is finding work at standalone bars.

This is particularly true in seasonal European cities (but I’ve seen it in South America, Australia, Asia… basically everywhere). Alcoholics are everywhere and they need a charming face with a winning smile to pour their drinks dammit!

The best way to find a bar job is just to walk around and ask if the bars are looking for any help. Or, if you’re having a pint somewhere, strike up a conversation with the bartender and get the scoop. A simple inquisition can lead to a lot of opportunities.

Full disclosure though: the booze and babes of the graveyard shift are fun for a while, but a few too many staffies a few too many months later and you’ll find yourself stuck right in a classic backpacker trap. And hungover.

  • $800 – $2000 per month

travel and tours work

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25. Become a Party Promoter/Brand Ambassador

a big group of people at maya beach in thailand, gathering for a group picture acting like pirates

If you are a fun-loving party animal with some social media/writing/promoting skills, then you could be a candidate to score a job as a brand ambassador for a tour business specializing in party-based tours. I’ve met someone who did this for a period; while the money wasn’t always hella tight, the nights of debauchery sure were!

A good option to break into this field is Stoke Travel . Every year, Stoke Travel gives 100+ regular travellers the opportunity to work and travel by volunteering at events or doing internships in their Barcelona and Byron Bay Office.

That’s right. Three square meals per day and unlimited booze. You’re basically travelling for free !

For the right individual, this job promises to be helluva of a lot of fun. (Possibly, too much fun…? )

  • Free drinks – $1200

26. Seasonal Jobs

two girls smiling holding snowboards on a snowy mountain

This is a large category that encompasses many different travel jobs. Restaurants, construction, hotels, cruise ship jobs, ski resorts, mining, deep-sea Alaskan fishing gigs, the list goes on! While a lot of these jobs are covered elsewhere in this post, seasonal jobs are worth noting.

You can literally travel the world working, chasing the season (which by the way usually equates to amazingly beautiful weather) and making money when jobs are in demand and at their highest paying…

Depending on the industry, you can end up both in some pretty off the beaten path destinations as well as touristed ones. Or both! The ski resorts in the summer trekking season is usually a much more peaceful vibe once all the loquacious Aussies have packed up shop.

  • $1000 – $5000 per month

27. Construction

Construction Work or English Teaching in Vang Vieng

You can find construction work basically anywhere in the world, however, the right destinations (eg. Australia and New Zealand) pay a mean wage. If you’re operating above board that is.

Otherwise, asking around for something more informal is usually the way to go. If you have construction experience, jump on those work exchange platforms for some cheap volunteering gigs .

Many hostels, farms, and everything in between will advertise their needs in hopes of finding a qualified working traveller. You’ll get food, lodging, and (depending on the project) a bit of money as well. It’ll get you networked too – word of mouth carries!

If you have experience as a plumber or electrician, you can make bank and even land a job where you are paid to travel to and from different world projects. Also, insider tip: traffic controllers Down Under get paid an ungodly amount for literally doing nothing. They usually pick the cutest girl to man the stop sign though – yay, sexism!

  • $1200 – $3000 per month but hugely variable depending on your trade and skillset,

28. Transport a Car or RV

Will with a car on the beach in New Zealand

Car and RV dealerships or car rental companies sometimes hire people to drive cars to different destinations. Rental companies often 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 colours, 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, but it’s worth it for a free and rocking RV road trip !

Some transport companies that you may be able to score some delivery gigs with include:

  • Imoova is one of the biggest search platforms for relocations.
  • Jucy has some nice opportunities on RVs.
  • Cars Arrive Auto Relocation is USA based and has some good options.
  • HitTheRoad.ca is a well-known Canadian company that offers mostly long-distance, one way, one trip driving contracts for cars.
  • A free road trip!

29. Professional Chef

Man cooking food on the grill using his hands.

If you have some cooking abilities or some legitimate kitchen experience, you can find a job by asking around at kitchens in hotels, cruise ships, boats, or retreats. Also, take a look into Worldpackers and Workaway as you can certainly find some cook-work opportunities for a free place to stay.

The downside is that you’ll have to work in close proximity to chefs. Chefs are primadonnas. Get in and out of the hospo industry as quick as possible, amigos.

If thou gaze too long into an abyss…

  • $1500 – $3000 per month

30. Travel Nurse

guy with road rash after crashing moped in jungle

Stop right now and listen to me. If you are a nurse, or if you are thinking about becoming a nurse, becoming a travel nurse is one of the single most amazing careers you can get into.

Travelling nurses are usually hired for thirteen to twenty-six weeks in whatever location they choose and all of your travel expenses are usually paid. Housing is usually covered, and due to the high demand and urgency, travelling nurses are paid more than regular nurses. It’s one of the best ways to travel, work and save a stupid amount of money.

Plus, you know, saving lives and all that jazz.

  • $1500 – $4000 per month.

31. Flight Attendant

Two girls walking towards a plane at sunset in Mexico

An oldie but a goodie, being a flight attendant isn’t as glamorous as it once was, but in terms of travel friendly jobs , this is a fantastic travel career. It’s really the OG travel job (right after busker AKA a wandering minstrel).

Free flights, long stopovers to explore, and the ability to tweak your schedule to have a few weeks off a month – there’s a lot to like! This is one of the best careers that involve travelling, and if you get hired by a quality airline, this is a job that not only requires travel but can also pay well.

  • $1800 – $2500 per month

mockup of a person holding a smartphone in white background with Holafly logo

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 .

32. New Zealand/Australia Work Visa

A person jumping in front of the Sydney Opera House in New South Wales, Australia

Not strictly a top travel job so much as a top place to find a job. Yes, the rumours you’ve heard are true: Australia does have an obscenely high minimum wage (as does New Zealand, albeit not as high).

Depending on where you are from and if you are able, New Zealand and Australia are two excellent countries to get work visas for. The visa allows you to be employed in most industries, but you’ll most likely find jobs in the hospitality, tourism, and agricultural fields. Come Down Under where you can travel and work for a year or maybe two!

However, both New Zealand and Australia’s cost of living is high, so finding a job that provides you with both a room and food will net you some huge savings. The more remote you go, the better you will earn too. (Sheep shearers make BANK… and then blow it all on cocaine and meth…)

Watch out though: not all Ozzies and Kiwis subscribe to the “mateship and fair go for all” mentality they’re known for. It’s not uncommon to get paid a fraction of that obscenely high minimum wage.

  • $1800 – $3500 per month
  • Backpacking Australia Travel Guide
  • Where to Stay in Australia
  • Backpacking New Zealand Travel Guide
  • Where to Stay in New Zealand

33. Ski Resort Jobs

a snowboard in the snowy mountains of park city utah

While I mentioned resorts and seasonal gigs before, skiing deserves its own holler(back girl). Ski resorts are notorious for hiring travellers and often under the table. Ski resort gigs can be the best seasonal jobs for travelling.

As an “unofficial” ski resort worker, you won’t get paid much (and you will likely be overworked), but it’s a great way to work hard, play hard, and make some travel friends along the way! Plus, there will always be the skiing/snowboarding perks which are obviously EPIC.

You don’t have to be an instructor though. Many seasonal jobs in lodges or working the lifts are widely available. Oh, and the snowbum life is pretty hedonistic – it’s basically working, partying, and picking up Insta-brand vacayers between your shifts.

  • $1000 – $2000 per month.

34. Tattoo Artist

Man topless with tattoos looking at a list.

Backpackers love to get tattoos on the road , so there is always a demand for talented artists. And I’ve met some amazing tattoo artists travelling the world and paying their way through freelance work in hostels and backpacker hangouts. Talk about a creative travel job!

The better you get at your craft, the more doors that will open up to you. You don’t even need a gun! I’ve met and befriended some phenomenal stick-and-poke artists who earn money working while they travel.

Plus getting paid by people to inflict large amounts of bodily harm on them really isn’t too bad either!

  • $500 – $15000 per month (be prepared to adjust your rates to reflect the country you’re in – ain’t nobody stupid enough to pay $100+ an hour in Mexico).

35. Join the Peace Corps

peace corps - a travel job and lifestyle

This is certainly one of the noblest travel jobs on this list and it deserves a mention! Providing a different work and travel experience, the Peace Corps is no joke and essentially makes you an international aid worker in a foreign country.

It’s a two-year commitment, you have very little influence on where you are stationed, and you only get two days off per month.

You don’t get paid much but, hell, you will be earning and you will get paid to travel to somewhere new. And what’s more, is relevant work experience can take the place of a college degree.

Check out:  This Peace Corps volunteer’s blog all about her experiences volunteering in Vanuatu.

Do You Need Insurance as a Working Traveller?

If you are going to be living and working outside of your home country, you really do need to think about getting health insurance. If you have an accident or get sick, then those hospital bills are going to completely nullify any money you’ve earned and saved.

For long term cover, we recommend SafetyWing . They specialise in covering digital nomads and those working outside of their home country. It’s basically a subscription model – month to month payments – on international health insurance without the need to provide an itinerary.

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!

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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.

There are so many ways to work and travel; sometimes you just gotta get a bit creative! As long as you are cutting the costs of travel and picking up a job where and when needed, you’ll find a way.

Not every traveling job needs to be a career. Covering your living costs is a fantastic start, and all the skills and confidence will take you soooo much further in life than one simple job ever could.

Taking a leap of faith on a new vocation on the road is fantastic. It’s a step outside of your comfort zone and right into the growth of travel. In many ways, that’s what it means to BE a broke backpacker .

You don’t have to be broke to be a broke backpacker. Nay, being resourceful, willing, and kind-hearted with a good work ethic – that makes you more of a broke backpacker than holes in your undies and lack of consistent showering ever will.

So get out there and work on the road! Start with a shit-kicker job. Then once you’ve levelled up appropriately (and with some ingenuity), you’ll find a job that involves travelling and where you get paid to travel and live in a new country. Maybe you’ll even live in a mini-campervan conversion and start rockin’ the super nomad life. Then, you’re not just hunting for the best travel jobs anymore.

No, that’s a travel career: a whole new adventure!

will hatton working in chiang mai

Elina Mattila

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Jobs that require travel: 25 amazing careers that let you see the world

A list of super cool jobs that require travel or can be done remotely and tips to get free accommodation abroad and live the life of your dreams.

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Worldpackers Worldpackers

Jan 25, 2024

Jobs that require travel

Ever felt a pang of envy for those who seem to live out of their suitcases, collecting passport stamps like badges of honor? Ever wished your job would let you explore different corners of the world? Luckily, there are many jobs that require travel. You could soon be globetrotting as part of your work!

In this article, we’ll explore 12 amazing careers that call for travel and 13 professions that allow you to work remotely as you globe-trot . Plus a special tip on how to volunteer in exchange for accommodation as you travel around the world.

The allure of jobs that require travel

Jobs that require travel are more than just a way to earn a living. They give you a chance to have thrilling experiences, encounter new cultures, and cultivate oneself. Take a look at some of the advantages of this lifestyle.

Exposure to different cultures

By engaging in a job that requires travel, one can gain an immersive experience of diverse cultures. Beyond simply visiting new places, these jobs often demand interaction with locals, which adds another layer of cultural experience. It's like having the world as your classroom.

Opportunities for networking

Journeying far and wide gives you access to networks beyond your home base. Meeting professionals from other countries can open doors for future opportunities - think global collaborations or even job offers. Effective networking, after all, plays a significant role in career advancement.

Skill development

Navigating through foreign lands can hone important skills such as problem-solving abilities and adaptability . You may face challenges along the way – language barriers or unfamiliar customs – but overcoming them helps develop resilience.

Personal growth

Besides professional development, travel-related work fosters personal growth too. " Travel broadens the mind " - this adage rings true when you step out of your comfort zone and venture into unknown territories.

Adventure and exploration

Travel jobs often equate to an adventurous lifestyle. You might have the chance to explore uncharted terrains, meet diverse people, and taste exotic cuisines. These experiences make your life a continuous adventure.

Enhanced creativity

Last but not least, travel stimulates creativity. Studies suggest that exposure to different cultures can spark creative thinking. This newfound inspiration can translate into more innovative ideas at work and more passion for life.

In essence, jobs that require travel are a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth, cultural immersion, and exciting adventures. But how can you put all that into practice in your own professional life? Let's take a look at some interesting jobs that require travel.

You might also like to read:

  • Is it possible to work remotely from another country?
  • 10 easy and creative ways to make money while traveling
  • Get paid to travel: 9 ways to make money on the road

12 examples of traveling careers

1. flight attendant.

Have you ever imagined visiting different cities across the globe as part of your daily routine? As a flight attendant, you can experience traveling to several destinations in the same week. This exciting job requires travel and makes your daily life far from boring.

A flight attendant's role is more than just serving snacks at 30,000 feet. They are tasked with guaranteeing traveler security, giving client assistance, and making each voyage feel like an energizing experience. From demonstrating safety procedures to assisting passengers with their needs – it’s all in a day’s work.

flight attendant is one of the most known jobs that require travel

2. International aid worker

A career as an international aid worker is both fulfilling and adventurous. You'll provide crucial support in areas hit by natural disasters or conflict . Organizations like Doctors Without Borders are often on the lookout for committed individuals ready to make a difference.

Keep reading:  7 careers in healthcare that allow you to travel as a volunteer

3. Travel writer

Fancy yourself with words? A travel writer crafts engaging articles about various destinations worldwide. They explore local culture, cuisine, attractions while capturing unique stories. 

Effective communication skills paired with an insatiable curiosity towards diverse topics can lead to opportunities across different industries including tourism, marketing agencies and more.

Got excited? Read our articles on how to become a freelance writer  and how to become a travel writer.

4. Photographer

In an era where visual storytelling reigns supreme, the role of a travel photographer has become a coveted profession that seamlessly blends passion, adventure, and creativity. 

Beyond the excitement of the journey, the role of a traveling photographer helps document important facts,  immortalize fleeting moments and preserve the beauty of diverse landscapes, ensuring that the stories of different cultures and places endure.

travel photographer

5. Cruise line worker

A cruise line worker's life can be one grand adventure at sea. From chefs to entertainers, these roles offer an exciting opportunity to work while exploring beautiful oceanic vistas and spending time with coworkers and guests from different cultures.

You'd be surprised at how much more there is to this job than just sailing through azure waters. While it's indeed exciting, it can also be demanding with long work hours and high expectations for customer service.

But don't let that deter you; the benefits are plentiful too. You’ll likely be able to save all the money you make during your time at sea, since you won't be spending money on accommodation and food, besides getting the chance to explore amazing destinations during your breaks.

6. International tour guide

If you're seeking a job that requires travel, becoming an international tour guide might be your ticket. Imagine leading excited tourists through travel destinations worldwide. It's like being the master of ceremonies for adventure.

Being a guide is not just about reciting facts and figures; it’s also about sharing stories and experiences that make each place unique. You become the bridge between cultures , helping travelers see the world from different perspectives.

Apart from showcasing attractions, part of guiding adventures involves handling logistics behind-the-scenes such as coordinating transportation and managing group dynamics while ensuring everyone has fun.

This isn’t your typical 9-to-5 desk job - far from it. Your office changes with every new destination. One day you could be exploring ancient ruins; the next, navigating bustling cities.

tour guide

7. Sales representative

A sales representative might need to travel frequently, meeting clients and attending trade shows. It's an excellent opportunity for those who excel in communication and negotiation skills while enjoying the perks of traveling.

8. Foreign Service worker

Embarking on a career in foreign service is like stepping into an international whirlwind. You'll find yourself navigating complex relations between nations, often requiring travel to embassies worldwide. 

Becoming a diplomat or other foreign service worker isn't just about globetrotting; it's also about making real changes and building bridges across cultures.

Your day-to-day tasks could include everything from handling visa applications to negotiating treaties - all while adapting to different customs and languages.

foreign service worker

9. Truck driver

Imagine yourself in the driver's seat of a big-rig, windows rolled down and tunes playing. You get to see different parts of the country while delivering shipments - sounds like a dream job for travel lovers.

A truck driver's life is filled with exploration and adventure. Sure, it's not your typical tourist destination experience, but truck driving lets you soak in natural landscapes that many never get to witness.

10. Scuba diving instructor

Becoming a PADI certified scuba diving instructor is an exhilarating journey into an underwater world. You'll meet unique marine life up close and discover stunning underwater landscapes all while sharing your passion with others.

A career in this field isn't merely confined within the bounds of teaching; it opens doors for exploration too. A regular day at work means delving into beautiful coral reefs or exploring forgotten shipwrecks - adventures that most can only dream of.

As this role can require travel, you'll also get to learn from diverse communities across different countries.

scuba diving can be a job that requires travel

11. Retail buyer

This profession involves navigating through diverse markets, exploring international trends, and building relationships with suppliers, all while curating a compelling assortment of products for consumers.

Whether scouring bustling marketplaces in Asia or attending trade shows in Europe, the journey often entails immersing oneself in the vibrant energy of different cultures and gaining firsthand insights into the nuances that shape consumer behaviors and preferences worldwide.

12. Consultant

Whether you’re hired by a specific company or not, working as a consultant is another great job that might require travel. From finance whizzes to HR experts , consultants offer valuable insights and strategies tailored for each client's needs. Depending on what you already work on now, you might be able to turn it into a traveling career by acting as a consultant.

The world of remote work

Landing a job that requires travel isn't the only way to make money while you see the world. If you've got a knack for self-management, discipline, and a love for freedom from office constraints , then freelance or remote work might be your ticket to a thrilling career.

One such avenue is becoming a digital nomad . These tech-savvy individuals redefine the traditional workplace by making any location with internet access their office . But it’s not just beachfront cafes or hip co-working spaces they frequent – think airport lounges, public libraries or even road trips. A strong sense of adventure and adaptability helps them overcome challenges like time zone differences and occasional Wi-Fi woes.

If you need or want more stability, you can also be a remote worker with a home base – “ location independent ”, as people often call it. That way you get to have a place to come back to, but also have the freedom to travel anytime you want.

There are plenty of jobs that require travel or can be done remotely

There are plenty of jobs that you can perform as a remote worker. Here are some examples:

13 jobs that you can do while traveling

  • Software Developer: Developing software and applications for various clients or companies.

Web Designer or Web Developer: Creating and designing websites, user interfaces, and web applications.

  • Graphic Designer: Designing visual concepts using computer software, working on projects such as advertisements, brochures, and logos.
  • Content Writer or Copywriter: Writing articles, blog posts, website content, and marketing materials for businesses and clients.
  • Social Media Manager: Managing social media accounts, creating content, and engaging with audiences.
  • Virtual Assistant: Providing administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients remotely, including tasks such as scheduling, data entry, and customer service.
  • Online Teacher: Teaching or tutoring students in various subjects or languages.

Digital Marketing Specialist: Implementing marketing strategies, managing campaigns, and analyzing data for businesses and clients.

  • SEO Specialist: Optimizing websites to increase their visibility on search engines.
  • E-commerce Store Manager: Managing online stores, overseeing product listings, and handling customer service.
  • Video Editor : Editing and producing videos for clients and companies.
  • Translator or Interpreter: Providing translation services for documents, meetings, or conferences remotely for clients in different languages.
  • Customer Support Representative: Providing customer service and support to clients or customers remotely via email, chat, or phone.

Keep reading :  Complete guide to digital nomad jobs

you can be a digital nomad

Work exchange: travel the world as a volunteer

Want to start taking on the world but still haven’t found a job that requires travel and meets your skills? Or do you feel like trying it out as a digital nomad, but want to make this a cheap journey? 

If you're looking to explore different cultures, build meaningful connections , and make a positive difference on your travels, a work exchange is the perfect opportunity. But what is it exactly? Work exchange or volunteering abroad allows you to offer your skills and time to hosts around the world in return for accommodation and other benefits.

Worldpackers , one such platform that facilitates these exchanges, connects eager travelers with host businesses, NGOs and non-profit projects worldwide. From helping out on an organic farm in Italy to teaching English classes at a school in Thailand, there's no limit to where this adventure can take you.

The process is straightforward. You browse through various listings on the website until something catches your eye; each listing details tasks expected from volunteers and perks offered by hosts.

Keep reading: How to balance working and traveling the world with Worldpackers

Jobs that require travel

Tasks that open doors to new cultures

You may ponder what sort of assignments are accessible. While they vary widely depending on the host’s needs and location, common roles include receptionist duties at hostels, gardening work at eco-villages, or even social media management for local businesses. 

These tasks let you interact closely with other travelers and with locals—giving invaluable insights into their way of life—which beats any typical tourist experience hands down.

The perks are more than just free lodging

But let's not forget about the perks, which go beyond free accommodation. Hosts often include other benefits like meals, free laundry and access to an equipped kitchen . This means less money spent on necessities so more budget left for exploring attractions nearby.

In some cases, hosts may also provide language lessons, cooking classes, or local tours , enriching your travel experience further.

A work exchange is also a chance to forge ties with locals and fellow travelers worldwide. These bonds might persist even when you're back home, establishing an invaluable global network in our highly connected world.

There are thousands of work exchange or volunteering positions available all around the world. 

Just to have an idea, look at some of the top hosts in different continents:

  • Meal with toucans: cook watching all kinds of birds in Goiás, Brazil
  • Help create a great hostel while exploring Edinburgh, Scotland for free

volunteering in Scotland

  • Create content to promote a beautiful project in Tamaulipas, Mexico
  • Put your creative helping hands to use in amazing Jaisalmer, India
  • Learn about gardening with typical local tools in Tagounite, Morocco

see the world with free accommodation

  • Contribute with an animal care and vet volunteer program in Kampala, Uganda
  • Help with housekeeping in a tropical paradise in Roatán, Honduras
  • Live a remote off grid life and volunteer at a farm in Havelock, New Zealand

find volunteer jobs that require travel

Ready to start traveling for a living?

If you've ever dreamed of jobs that require travel, the world's your oyster. As you've learned, there are plenty of opportunities out there. You can immerse yourself in different cultures and gain new skills while exploring exotic locales.

Work exchange programs like Worldpackers even let you volunteer across the globe - a fantastic way to see the world without breaking the bank. And remember: your career doesn't have to be stationary. It's all about uncovering what suits you best. Have fun!

If you like this article, follow us on social media for more travel tips and inspiration. We're on Tiktok and Instagram .

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

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Nov 30, 2023

Interesting and adventures jobs

travel and tours work

I hope this comment finds you well! I've been following your blog for a while now, and I must say, I always look forward to your insightful and informative posts on traveling. Your content is not only engaging but also incredibly valuable.

I recently started my own blog focusing on traveling, and as someone I admire in the blogging community, I would truly appreciate it if you could take a moment to check it out. I value your opinion and would love to hear your thoughts on whether there are areas I can improve or any suggestions you might have.

Here's the link to my blog: sammadblogs.blogspot.com/2024/01/jobsthatletyoutravel.html

Thank you so much for your time, and keep up the fantastic work with your blog! Looking forward to hearing from you.

Best regards

More about this topic

travel and tours work

7 careers in healthcare that allow you to travel as a volunteer

How to make money with your phone while traveling, what is location independence and how can you get it.

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How do Worldpackers trips work?

As a member, you can contact as many hosts and travel safely as many times as you want.

Choose your plan to travel with Worldpackers as many times as you like.

Complete your profile, watch the video lessons in the Academy, and earn certificates to stand out to hosts.

Apply to as many positions as you like, and get in contact with our verified hosts.

If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

Get your documents and tickets ready for your volunteer trip.

Confirm your trip to enjoy all of the safety of Worldpackers.

Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

If anything doesn’t go as planned with a host, count on the WP Safeguard and our highly responsive support team!

After volunteering, you and your host exchange reviews.

With positive reviews, you’ll stand out to hosts and get even more benefits.

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55 Best Travel Jobs to Make Money and See the World (2023)

Travel jobs are a great way to see the world and experience different cultures while earning a living. With the rise of remote work and the gig economy, there are more opportunities than ever to combine work and travel.

Many travel jobs require specific skills or qualifications, such as teaching English as a foreign language, working as a tour guide, or becoming a travel writer. However, there are also many jobs that simply require a willingness to work hard and a sense of adventure.

Some popular travel jobs include working as a flight attendant, working on a cruise ship, or working as a digital nomad. Each of these jobs offers unique opportunities and challenges, but all provide the chance to explore new places and meet new people.

a woman holding a camera earning money with travel jobs

Table of Contents

Are you passionate about travel and love to share your experiences with others? Then becoming a blogger might be the perfect job for you! 

You can even become a travel blogger if you like, giving you the opportunity to explore new destinations, meet interesting people, and share your stories and insights with your followers.

But whatever you choose to write about, one of the best things about being a blogger is that you can work from anywhere in the world. All you need is a laptop and an internet connection. 

Thinking about starting a blog to make extra money?

Great choice! After all, it’s one of the cheapest online businesses to start at under $3 per month – less than a cup of coffee! In fact, that’s the price you’ll get if you launch your site with Bluehost , which is easily my top pick for the best website host for beginners to use.

Not only will you get a free domain name , but you definitely don’t need any tech experience to get started.

To find out more, check out my simple step-by-step guide on how to start a blog as I show you the exact steps I took to start on the path to earning thousands of dollars every month – on the side of my full-time job!

Other than that, though, you can set your own schedule, work at your own pace, and choose the destinations and topics that interest you the most.

This can definitely be a fun and rewarding career choice for those who have a passion for travel and a talent for storytelling. With hard work, dedication, and a bit of luck, you can build a successful career as a travel blogger and share your love of travel with the world!

Related: 9 Simple Strategies to Blog Anonymously and Make Money

2. Freelance Writer

Writing is a great way to share your travel experiences with others and get paid for it. Freelance writing jobs can range from writing articles for travel magazines to creating content for travel websites. 

This means that if you have a passion for travel and a talent for writing, then freelance writing may be the perfect travel job for you.

One of the best things about freelance writing is the flexibility it offers. As a freelance writer, you can work from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection, making this a great option for those who want to travel and work at the same time.

That said, while freelance writing can be a great way to make money while traveling, it’s important to remember that it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme. It takes time and effort to build up a portfolio and establish yourself as a freelance writer even if you don’t have any experience .

However, if you’re willing to put in the work, freelance writing can be a rewarding and lucrative travel job.

3. Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants are becoming increasingly popular in the travel industry. As a virtual assistant, you can work from anywhere in the world, making it a great job for those who love to travel. 

The job involves handling administrative tasks for clients, such as responding to emails, managing schedules, and making travel arrangements.

Want basically unlimited inspiration for which services you can offer as a VA?

Take a look at this list of 275+ services that a virtual assistant can provide from Gina Horkey – one of the best in the VA business! 

Like many of the others on this list, being a VA definitely has the benefit of being super flexible. You can work on your own schedule, and you can take on as many or as few clients as you like. This makes it a great job for those who want to travel and work at the same time.

There are many resources available online to help you get started as a virtual assistant, like these sites to find virtual assistant jobs for beginners . With the right skills and experience, you can build a successful career as a virtual assistant in the travel industry.

a man with his laptop that has travel jobs

4. Proofreader

Do you have an eye for detail? Do you enjoy reading and correcting mistakes? If so, a travel proofreader job could be the perfect fit for you. 

As a proofreader, you’ll be responsible for reviewing and correcting travel-related content, such as travel guides, brochures, and website copy. Or you can even expand to non-travel-related content and just work on it while you’re traveling!

Want to know how much money you can make doing this?

Just ask Caitlin Pyle, who’s proven just how successful this can be by making more than $70,000 per year as a proofreader.

To help you do the same, Caitlin‘s created a free workshop to show you just how to get started as a proofreader . Her workshop goes through:

  • Why proofreading could be the perfect fit for you to make money
  • How she used proofreading to get lifestyle freedom
  • Her strategies for attracting your ideal clients

Click here to sign up for Caitlin’s free proofreading workshop.

Proofreading is a great travel job for those who enjoy reading and have a passion for accuracy. It’s also a job that can be done remotely, which means that you can work from anywhere in the world as long as you have a computer and an internet connection.

You may also be interested in: 9 Best Proofreading Jobs for Beginners to Work From Home – No Experience Needed

5. Transcriptionist

If you have excellent typing skills and can transcribe audio recordings accurately, then you may want to consider a career as a transcriptionist. 

Transcriptionists listen to audio recordings and convert them into written documents. This job is often remote and flexible, making it a great option for those who love to travel.

As a transcriptionist, you may work with a variety of industries, including medical, legal, and general transcription. Some companies may require specific experience or knowledge in a particular field, while others may offer training to help you develop the necessary skills.

So if you enjoy typing and have great attention to detail, then a transcription job may be a great fit for your travel lifestyle.

To get started with making money as a legal transcriptionist ASAP , take a look at this all-inclusive course on legal transcription .

It’s incredibly in depth and includes:

  • 14 training modules covering everything you’ll need to know, including hours of practical, hands-on lessons so you hit the ground running
  • The exact terminology, formatting and templates be able to use from day 1 to get your work done faster (read: earn more money!)
  • The best tricks and hacks to get through transcriptions quicker , including ways for your computer to help do some of the work for you

6. Web Designer

Web design is a crucial aspect of basically every industry these days (including travel!). It’s the first thing that a potential customer sees when they visit a website, meaning that a web designer is responsible for creating visually appealing and user-friendly websites that attract and retain customers. That is why it is one of the highest paying online jobs .

As a web designer, you’ll need to have a strong understanding of web development technologies, such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You’ll also likely need to have experience with design software, such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. 

But if you have those skills, then there’s no reason why you couldn’t do this remotely as you travel! Many companies hiring web designers don’t actually care where you’re based. This means that you’ll be able to travel and work at the same time.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a web designer, there are a few things that you’ll need to do. First, you’ll need to have a strong portfolio of work that showcases your design skills. 

You’ll also need to have a strong understanding of web development technologies and design software. Finally, you’ll need to be able to work independently and manage your time effectively.

7. Graphic Designer

As a graphic designer, you can work remotely or travel to different locations to meet clients and work on projects. After all, many companies and individuals need graphic designers to create logos, websites, marketing materials, and other visual content. 

Working as a freelance graphic designer allows you to have flexibility in your schedule and choose the projects you want to work on. You can also work from anywhere in the world as long as you have a computer and internet connection. 

If you prefer a more stable job, many companies in the travel industry, such as airlines, hotels, and travel agencies, need graphic designers to create promotional materials, advertisements, and other visual content. 

a man on a coffee shop working as a freelancer which is one of the best travel jobs

To become a graphic designer, you will need to have a strong portfolio of your work and be proficient in design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. A degree in graphic design or a related field can also be helpful. 

Overall, being a graphic designer can be a rewarding career choice for those who have a passion for design and creativity. With the ability to work remotely or travel to different locations for work, it can also provide a sense of freedom and adventure.

8. Social Media Manager

As social media platforms continue to grow in popularity, businesses are increasingly looking for individuals who can manage their online presence. This is where a social media manager comes in. 

So as a social media manager, your job will be to create and manage content for a company’s social media channels.

You will be responsible for creating engaging content that resonates with the company’s target audience. This may include writing blog posts, creating graphics and videos, and managing the company’s social media accounts. 

Specialized training always helps – and if you want to learn everything you need to know to be a successful Pinterest manager, the  Become a Pinterest VA  course is easily my pick for the best online training in this field.

  • How exactly to find clients  and land a Pinterest manager position
  • The  best strategies for onboarding  and working with clients
  • The  fees you should charge  so you’re not being underpaid
  • Carefully refined templates you can use to launch your services  with clients, invoice them and more

And if you just want a taster, click here for a FREE webinar on what being a Pinterest VA is really about – including how much money you can really make!

You will also be responsible for monitoring social media conversations and responding to customer inquiries and complaints.

But if you have a passion for social media and enjoy creating engaging content, a career as a social media manager may be a great fit for you. With the right skills and experience, you can build a successful career in this exciting field.

9. SEO Specialist

If you’re passionate about digital marketing and have a talent for search engine optimization (SEO), then becoming an SEO specialist could be the perfect travel job for you. As an SEO specialist, you’ll be responsible for optimizing websites to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs).

Most companies have websites these days, and many of them want to rank higher in Google and other search engines to attract more traffic to their site. 

That’s where you come in. As an SEO specialist, you’ll be responsible for analyzing websites, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing changes to improve their ranking in SERPs.

One of the best things about being an SEO specialist is that you can do it from anywhere in the world. All you need is a laptop and an internet connection. You can work for a company remotely, or you can start your own SEO agency and work as a freelancer.

If you’re interested in becoming an SEO specialist, there are plenty of resources available to help you learn the skills you need. You can take online courses, read books and blogs, and even attend conferences and workshops to learn from industry experts.

10. Online Tutor

Online tutoring is a great option for those who have a passion for teaching and want to help students succeed.

After all, as technology continues to advance, so does the demand for online tutors. This job allows you to work from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a stable internet connection. 

One of the best things about online tutoring is the flexibility it provides. You can choose your own hours and work as much or as little as you want. This makes it a great option for those who want to travel and work at the same time.

a woman working as an online tutor

There are many different subjects you can tutor online, from math and science to languages and music. You can also choose to work with students of all ages, from elementary school to college.

To become an online tutor, you will need to have a strong knowledge of the subject you want to teach and some teaching experience. You will also need to have a computer and reliable internet access.

Overall, an online tutoring job is a great way to travel and work at the same time. It provides a lot of flexibility and allows you to make a difference in the lives of students around the world.

11. Digital Product Creator

If you have a talent for creating digital products, such as e-books or printables, then you can turn your skills into a lucrative travel job. As a digital product creator, you can work from anywhere in the world and sell your products to a global audience.

One of the biggest advantages of being a digital product creator is the ability to earn passive income. Once you create and launch your product, you can continue to earn money from it for years to come. This means that you can take time off to travel without worrying about losing income.

To be successful as a digital product creator, you need to have a deep understanding of your target audience and their needs. You also need to be able to create high-quality products that provide value to your customers. This requires a combination of creativity, technical skills, and marketing savvy.

But, overall, being a digital product creator is a great travel job for anyone with a talent for creating digital products and a passion for travel. With the right skills and mindset, you can turn your creativity into a profitable career that allows you to work from anywhere in the world.

Related: 10 Easy Steps to Sell Digital Downloads on Etsy

12. Online Retailer

If you love travel and have a knack for sales, then an online retailer job might be the perfect fit for you. As an online retailer, you can sell anything from travel gear to travel insurance, and everything in between – including things that have absolutely nothing to do with travel!

You can work for a specific company or start your own online store. With the rise of e-commerce, the opportunities are endless. You can even work from anywhere in the world and sell to customers all over the globe.

One of the benefits of working as an online retailer is that you can set your own hours and work at your own pace. You can also choose the products you want to sell and create your own marketing strategies.

If you’re interested in starting your own online store, there are many platforms available that can help you get started. Some popular options include Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce.

13. Online Course Creator

As the world becomes more digital, so does the way we learn. Online courses have become increasingly popular, offering students the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. 

This has created a huge demand for online course creators. And as an online course creator, you would be responsible for developing and creating courses on a variety of topics. 

This could include anything from cooking classes to coding bootcamps. That said, you would need to have expertise in the subject matter and be able to communicate it effectively to your students. 

One of the biggest advantages of being an online course creator is the flexibility it offers. You can work from anywhere in the world and set your own schedule. You can also create courses on a variety of topics, allowing you to explore your interests and passions. 

So if you have expertise in a particular subject and a passion for teaching, then becoming an online course creator could be the perfect travel job for you. With the ability to work from anywhere in the world and create courses on a variety of topics, you can turn your passion into a profitable career.

14. Affiliate Marketer

If you have an existing audience (like a website or a social media channel) and a knack for marketing, then becoming an affiliate marketer could be the perfect job for you. As an affiliate marketer, you promote products and services on behalf of a company and earn a commission for every sale that you generate.

One of the biggest advantages of being an affiliate marketer is that you can work from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. This makes it an ideal job for those who love to travel and want to earn money while on the go.

Just ask Michelle Schroeder-Gardner, who makes more than $50,000 a month just from affiliate marketing through her site.  And her course,  Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing , shows you how to do exactly the same thing yourself. She teaches things like:

  • The exact steps she took to  earn over $300,000 from a single blog post
  • How to pick the right affiliate products to promote
  • How to increase conversions
  • How to build trust and not lose followers  (so you don’t sound too sales-y)

…and a ton more. 

Grab here FREE affiliate marketing e-book here as an easy starting point – it’s packed with tips for bloggers to start earning major money!

One of the keys to success as an affiliate marketer is to choose products and services that you are passionate about and that align with your values. This will make it easier for you to promote them authentically and build trust with your audience.

someone with a headset and laptop working a travel jobs

15. Virtual Event Planner

As the world becomes more connected, virtual events are becoming increasingly popular. This is where virtual event planners come in. 

They are responsible for organizing and executing virtual events, such as conferences, webinars, and trade shows. And one of the benefits of being a virtual event planner is that you can work from anywhere in the world – as that’s where the event participants are located too! 

All you need is a computer, internet connection, and the right software. This means you can work from the comfort of your own home, or even while traveling. 

One important skill for virtual event planners is communication. You will be working with a variety of people, including clients, vendors, and attendees. To make things go smoothly, you need to be able to communicate effectively and professionally, both in writing and verbally. 

Overall, virtual event planning is a rewarding and exciting career path for those who enjoy organizing and coordinating events. With the right skills and experience, you can build a successful career as a virtual event planner.

16. Online Community Moderator

As social media platforms continue to grow, so does the need for online community moderators. These professionals are responsible for monitoring online forums, social media groups, and other online communities to ensure that users are following the rules and guidelines. 

One of the main duties of an online community moderator is to keep the community engaged and active. This involves creating and posting content, responding to comments and questions, and facilitating discussions. 

Moderators must also be able to identify and remove any inappropriate or offensive content, as well as deal with any conflicts or issues that arise within the community. 

To get a paid moderator job , you typically need a strong understanding of social media platforms and online communities. It’s fine though if you don’t have any experience as many companies and organizations offer training programs for their moderators. 

If you enjoy engaging with people online and have a passion for creating and maintaining online communities, then a career as an online community moderator may be the perfect fit for you.

a woman with her laptop working while travelling

17. App Developer

While this is one travel job where you will need specific experience, if you have that background, then this is going to be perfect for you.

As an app developer, you will be responsible for creating and maintaining mobile applications that help travelers plan their trips, book accommodations and activities, and navigate new destinations.

With the rise of mobile technology, the demand for app developers has never been higher. For instance, you will have the opportunity to work for major travel companies, such as Expedia or Airbnb, or for smaller startups that specialize in travel technology. 

18. Remote Project Manager

Being a remote project manager is a great travel job that allows you to work from anywhere in the world. As a project manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and tracking of a specific project. 

You will work closely with the team members and stakeholders to ensure that the project is completed within the given timeline and budget.

One of the biggest advantages of being a remote project manager is that you can work from anywhere in the world. You can travel to different countries and work from cafes, co-working spaces, or even from the beach. All you need is a laptop and a reliable internet connection.

Another advantage is that you can work on different projects with different clients. This allows you to gain experience in different industries and work with different teams. 

You can also set your own schedule and work at your own pace, as long as you meet the project deadlines.

If you want to become a remote project manager, you will need to have excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills. You should also have experience in project management and be familiar with project management tools such as Asana, Trello, or Jira.

19. Online Business Coach

As an online business coach, you will help entrepreneurs and small business owners grow and scale their businesses. You will work with clients to help them develop business plans, create marketing strategies, and improve their overall operations. 

This is a great job for those who have a background in business and a passion for helping others succeed.

And one of the best things about being an online business coach is the flexibility it offers. You can work from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. 

an online business coach with her laptop while travelling

This means that you can travel while you work, which is perfect for those who love to explore new places.

To be successful as an online business coach, you need to have excellent communication skills. You will be working with clients remotely, so you need to be able to clearly explain concepts and strategies over the phone or through video conferencing. 

If you are interested in becoming an online business coach, there are many courses and certifications available that can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need. You can also gain experience by working with small businesses or volunteering your services to non-profit organizations.

20. Podcast Producer

If you have a passion for audio storytelling and love to travel, then becoming a podcast producer might be the perfect job for you. With the rise of podcasting, there are many opportunities for producers to create travel-related content (or even on other topics!) that captures the imagination of listeners.

As a podcast producer, you will be responsible for creating, recording, and editing audio content for your show. You will also need to research and write scripts, book guests, and manage the technical aspects of recording and publishing your episodes.

But part of this is that you can travel to different locations and record episodes on the go, giving your listeners a unique perspective on the places you visit.

If you’re interested in becoming a podcast producer, there are many resources available online to help you get started. You can learn the technical skills you need by taking online courses or watching tutorials on YouTube. You can also join online communities of podcasters to network and learn from others in the industry.

21. Bookkeeper

Bookkeeping is an essential part of any business, and it’s no different for travel companies. As a bookkeeper, you’ll be responsible for keeping track of financial transactions, recording expenses, and managing budgets. 

You’ll need to be detail-oriented, organized, and have strong analytical skills to excel in this role.

And if you choose to become a bookkeeper in the travel industry, you’ll have a unique set of challenges to navigate. You’ll need to be familiar with travel-specific expenses, such as airfare, hotel accommodations, and rental cars. You may also need to manage multiple currencies and work with international clients.

Want to start earning great money as a bookkeeper ASAP?

Check out   this free course on how to start your own bookkeeping business from Ben Robinson, who’s sold TWO seven-figure bookkeeping businesses, so really knows his stuff.

Its focus is on teaching you the actual, practical things you need to know to start profiting immediately…and with former students earning $10k+ per month from this, there’s definitely profit to be made here.

Overall, a career as a bookkeeper while traveling can be rewarding and challenging. It’s a great option for those who love numbers and want to work in a dynamic and exciting industry.

someone holding a calculator working as an accountant one of the best travel jobs

22. Virtual Recruiter

Are you good at networking and finding the right person for the job? If so, a virtual recruiter job might be the perfect fit for you. 

As a virtual recruiter, you’ll be responsible for finding and hiring top talent for companies without ever having to leave your home. Virtual recruiters work with companies to understand their hiring needs and then use various methods to find and screen potential candidates.

This may include posting job openings on job boards, searching resumes on LinkedIn, and conducting virtual interviews. Once a candidate is selected, the virtual recruiter will help negotiate salaries and benefits and ensure a smooth onboarding process.

One of the biggest advantages of a virtual recruiter job is the flexibility it offers. You can work from anywhere as long as you have a computer and internet connection. This makes it a great option for those who love to travel or want to work from home.

23. Video Editor

Video editors are in high demand these days, including in the travel industry. Whether it’s creating promotional videos for resorts, editing travel documentaries, or creating content for travel bloggers, video editors play a crucial role in bringing the beauty and excitement of travel to life.

To become a video editor, you’ll need to have a strong understanding of video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer. You’ll also need to have an eye for detail, excellent time management skills, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.

When it comes to salary, video editors in the travel industry can earn anywhere from $18 to $56 per hour, depending on their experience and skills. Some travel video editor jobs may also offer additional benefits, such as travel opportunities, flexible schedules, and the chance to work with exciting clients.

As a video editor in the travel industry, you’ll have the opportunity to work on exciting projects that showcase some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Whether you’re editing footage of a tropical beach, a bustling city, or a breathtaking mountain range, you’ll be able to use your skills to make money editing videos that inspire and delight viewers around the world.

24. Online Researcher

As an online researcher, your job is to find and analyze information on the internet. This can involve anything from market research to academic studies, with many companies hiring online researchers to gather data and insights that can help them make better decisions. 

One of the great things about being an online researcher is that you can work from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection. This makes it a popular choice for people who love to travel and want to work remotely. 

So if you have a curious mind, then a career as an online researcher might be right for you. With the flexibility to work from anywhere, you can combine your love of travel with your passion for learning and discovery.

a woman working on her laptop as an online researcher one of the best travel jobs

25. Remote Customer Support Specialist

Are you a people person who loves to help others? Do you have experience in customer service and enjoy working remotely? If so, a career as a remote customer support specialist might be perfect for you. 

As a remote customer support specialist, you will be responsible for assisting customers with…well, whatever they need! For example, if you work for a travel company, you could find yourself helping with people’s travel needs, such as booking flights, hotels, and rental cars. You will also help customers with any issues they may encounter during their travels, such as flight cancellations or lost luggage. 

Fortunately, this travel job can be done from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing you to travel while you work. Additionally, many companies offer flexible schedules, allowing you to work around other commitments you may have. 

To be successful in this role, you should have excellent communication and problem-solving skills. You should also be able to work independently and manage your time effectively. 

Find out more about: 36 Legit Work at Home Jobs That Provide Equipment

26. Online Legal Assistant

Many law firms and attorneys are now offering remote positions for legal assistants, making it an excellent opportunity for those who want to work from home or while traveling. 

Working as an online legal assistant involves helping a law firm or attorney with various tasks, including legal research, document preparation, and basic office work. You may also be responsible for managing workflow, deadlines, and documents to ensure that the lawyers are supported. 

There’s also a ton of flexibility here in that you can work from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection. This makes it an excellent opportunity for those who want to travel while working. 

If you’re interested in becoming an online legal assistant, there are several websites where you can find job listings, such as Indeed and ZipRecruiter for job postings near you. 

Just note that, to become an online legal assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may ask for a degree in legal studies or a related field, but it’s usually not a strict requirement.

27. Travel Agent

While some travel agents work in traditional office settings, many are able to work from home or remotely. This can provide greater flexibility in terms of scheduling and work-life balance. 

To become a travel agent, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and may benefit from completing a travel agent training program or obtaining a certification from a professional organization such as the American Society of Travel Agents.

But if you jump over a few hoops, you’re going to find yourself with the ultimate travel job here by being able to help people plan and book their trips. You can even use your own travel experience to work with clients to determine their travel preferences, budget, and other requirements, and then research and book flights, hotels, rental cars, tours, and other travel arrangements. 

Travel agents can work for travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, hotels, or as independent contractors, so check Indeed as a great starting point for jobs in this field.

Related: 7 Easy Steps to Become a Disney Travel Agent

28. Virtual Receptionist

Virtual receptionist jobs are becoming more popular as businesses seek to reduce costs by outsourcing their receptionist duties. As a result, there are many job opportunities available in this field, with a variety of companies and industries to choose from.

So if you have excellent communication skills and enjoy interacting with people, a virtual receptionist job may be a perfect fit for you. As a virtual receptionist, your primary job duties include answering and transferring client telephone calls and greeting clients in person for scheduled and unscheduled appointments.

Many companies offer part-time and full-time positions, as well as flexible schedules that allow you to work from home. This makes it an ideal job for those who need to balance work with all the fun involved in seeing the world.

Some virtual receptionist jobs require previous experience in customer service or a related field, while others may provide on-the-job training. In addition to strong communication skills, virtual receptionists should be organized, detail-oriented, and able to multitask effectively.

If you’re interested in a virtual receptionist job, be sure to research the companies and industries that interest you. Look for job openings on job search websites, such as Indeed or SimplyHired, and read reviews from current and former employees to get a sense of what it’s like to work for a particular company.

29. Online Therapist

With the rise of telehealth services, online therapy has become a popular option for both therapists and clients. As an online therapist, you can work from anywhere with an internet connection and provide therapy to clients all over the world. 

There are many benefits to working as an online therapist – including for your clients. In particular, online therapy is a convenient and accessible option for those who may have difficulty accessing traditional in-person therapy.

And for your own sake, you have the flexibility here to set your own schedule and work from the comfort of your own home. Additionally, you can work with a wide range of clients and specialize in different areas of therapy.

someone typing on a laptop

However, it’s very likely that you’ll need relevant qualifications to do this. It also requires a strong internet connection and a private, quiet space to conduct sessions. 

But, overall, online therapy is a growing field with many opportunities for therapists who are looking for a flexible and accessible way to provide therapy to clients. While it may not be for everyone, it is important to consider the benefits and limitations of online therapy and to make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice for you.

30. Flight Attendant

Being a flight attendant is one of the most glamorous and exciting travel jobs out there. It’s a job that allows you to travel the world, meet new people, and experience different cultures.

And while, for a long time, this was considered one of the best traveling jobs for females, there’s absolutely no reason these days why everyone can’t get on board with this.

To become a flight attendant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some customer service experience. Many airlines also require flight attendants to be at least 18 years old, have a valid passport, and be able to pass a background check and drug test.

Flight attendants also need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to remain calm under pressure. They must be able to work long hours, often on their feet, and be able to lift heavy objects, such as luggage.

While the pay for flight attendants can vary depending on the airline and experience level, it can be a lucrative career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for flight attendants was $56,000 in 2020. 

That said, in some parts of the world, wages for this job are higher than that. Plus, you get things like all your accommodation provided, especially some of the major Middle Eastern airlines.

Overall, being a flight attendant is a rewarding and exciting travel job that allows you to see the world while helping others. If you’re interested in pursuing this career path, be sure to research different airlines and their requirements to find the best fit for you.

31. Travel Photographer

Travel photography is a dream job for many people. It involves traveling to different locations and taking photos of the scenery, people, and culture. 

Travel photographers capture the essence of a place and tell a story through their photos. They work for magazines, newspapers, travel companies, and other clients who require high-quality travel photos.

Understandably, travel photographers need to have excellent photography skills and knowledge of different camera equipment. They also need to be able to work in different lighting conditions and be familiar with photo editing software. 

a woman holding a camera working as a photographer one of the best travel job

These jobs can be freelance or full-time. Freelance travel photographers have the flexibility to choose their assignments and work on their own schedule. Full-time travel photographers work for a company or organization and may have a regular schedule and salary.

If you are interested in becoming a travel photographer, it is important to build a strong portfolio of your work and network with clients and other photographers in the industry. You can also attend workshops and conferences to learn more about the field and improve your skills.

Overall, travel photography is a competitive field, but it offers the opportunity to see the world and capture it in a unique and creative way. If you have a passion for photography and travel, it could be the perfect career for you.

32. Cruise Ship Worker

If you are passionate about travel and love to work in a dynamic environment, a job on a cruise ship could be the perfect fit for you. 

Cruise ship workers are responsible for providing high-quality customer service to guests onboard. There are a variety of different roles that you could take on, from working as a steward to managing the ship’s operations.

But whichever position you choose, working on a cruise ship can be a challenging but rewarding experience. You’ll get to travel to exciting destinations while working alongside a diverse and talented team. Some of the benefits of working on a cruise ship include:

  • Free accommodation and meals
  • Opportunities for career advancement
  • Access to onboard amenities and entertainment
  • The chance to meet people from all over the world

However, it’s important to note that working on a cruise ship can also be demanding. You’ll be working long hours and may be away from home for extended periods of time. It’s important to have a strong work ethic and be able to adapt to new environments quickly.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career on a cruise ship, be sure to do your research and find a role that aligns with your skills and interests. 

a man working as a cruise ship worker one of the best travel job

33. Tour Guide

Being a tour guide is an excellent travel job that lets you share your passion for travel and adventure with others. You get to meet new people, explore new places, and learn about different cultures while getting paid. 

As a tour guide, you are responsible for leading groups of tourists on sightseeing tours, adventure tours, and other types of tours.

One of the best things about being a tour guide is that you get to work in a variety of different settings. You can work in cities, national parks, or even on cruise ships. 

You can also choose to specialize in adventure tours, cultural tours, or historical tours. There are so many different types of tours that you can lead, which means that you can find a niche that suits your interests and skills.

As a tour guide, you need to be knowledgeable about the places you are visiting. You need to be able to provide interesting and informative commentary about the history, culture, and geography of the area. You also need to be able to answer questions from the tourists in your group and ensure that they have a safe and enjoyable experience.

But if you love to travel, have a passion for learning, and enjoy meeting new people, then becoming a tour guide could be the perfect travel job for you. It’s a rewarding and exciting career that lets you share your love of travel with others while getting paid to do what you love.

Find out more about: 30 Legit Ways to Make Money in Grad School

34. English Teacher

Are you a native English speaker with a passion for teaching? If so, becoming an English teacher abroad might be the perfect travel job for you! 

Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) is a popular option for those who want to immerse themselves in a new culture while making a difference in the lives of others. And one of the main benefits of teaching English abroad is the opportunity to live and work in a foreign country. 

As an English teacher, you will not only have the chance to explore a new place, but you will also be able to experience the local customs and traditions firsthand. Additionally, teaching English abroad can provide a sense of fulfillment as you help others learn a valuable skill. 

To become an English teacher abroad, you will typically need a TEFL certification. This certification can be obtained through a variety of programs, both online and in-person. Some programs even offer job placement assistance, making it easier to find a teaching job once you have completed your certification. 

FYI: Getting your TEFL certification is much easier than you probably think and can really help to maximize your earnings here.

Check out Premier TEFL for this – it’s fully government accredited, is recognized worldwide and you can even be certified within four weeks!

Once you have your certification, the world is your oyster! English teachers are in high demand in many countries around the world, including China, South Korea, and Spain. 

Salaries and benefits can vary depending on the location and the employer, but many English teachers are able to live comfortably and even save money while abroad. 

35. Freelancer

Being a freelancer is one of the best travel jobs out there. With the freedom to work from anywhere, freelancing allows you to travel the world while still earning a living. 

It goes without being said that one of the biggest benefits of freelancing is the flexibility it offers. You can work as much or as little as you want, and take breaks whenever you need them. You can also choose which projects to work on, and set your own rates.

However, freelancing can also be challenging. You need to be self-motivated and disciplined to succeed. You also need to be comfortable with the uncertainty that comes with not having a steady paycheck.

a woman with her laptop

If you’re interested in freelancing, there are many websites where you can find freelance jobs. Some of the most popular include Upwork , Freelancer , and Fiverr where you can start an easy freelance job for beginners . You can also reach out to potential clients directly, or network with other freelancers in your industry.

36. Volunteer Work Abroad

If you’re looking for a way to give back while exploring the world, volunteer work abroad could be the perfect fit. Not only will you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others, but you’ll also gain valuable experience and cultural insights that can enhance your resume and personal growth.

There are a variety of volunteer opportunities available, ranging from healthcare and education to wildlife conservation and community development. Many organizations offer structured programs that provide housing, meals, and support throughout your volunteer experience.

One popular option is Worldpackers, a platform that connects volunteers with hosts in over 140 countries. With over 9 years of history and more than 130,000 reviews exchanged, Worldpackers is a trusted resource for finding meaningful volunteer opportunities abroad.

If you’re interested in combining travel with volunteer work, Projects Abroad offers a range of programs that allow you to give back while exploring new destinations. From teaching English in Thailand to working with sea turtles in Costa Rica, there’s a program to suit every interest and skillset.

Another option is to find paid volunteer work abroad, which can provide a source of income while allowing you to make a difference. Resources like GoAbroad.com offer listings for paid volunteer opportunities, as well as tips for finding and applying for these positions.

a woman volunteer holding a doll and giving it to a girl

Before embarking on a volunteer experience, it’s important to research the organization and program thoroughly to ensure that it aligns with your values and goals. Additionally, be prepared for the challenges and rewards that come with volunteering abroad, including cultural differences and language barriers.

Overall, volunteer work abroad is a fulfilling and impactful way to travel the world and make a difference. Whether you’re interested in healthcare, education, or conservation, there’s a program out there that can help you achieve your goals while giving back to others.

37. Travel Nurse or Doctor

If you are a medical professional and are looking for the best travel job for your skillset, then becoming a travel nurse or doctor could be the perfect job for you. As a travel nurse or doctor, you will have the opportunity to work in different healthcare facilities across the country or even internationally. 

Not only will you get to experience new places and cultures, but you will also be able to advance your medical skills and knowledge. Plus, travel nurses and doctors are in high demand and can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. 

They are typically hired on a temporary basis to fill staffing shortages or to cover for employees who are on leave. As a travel nurse or doctor, you can work for a few weeks, months, or even years at a time.

Many travel nursing and doctor agencies offer competitive pay, housing, and travel expenses, making it an attractive career option for those who love to travel.

However, it’s important to note that being a travel nurse or doctor can be challenging. You will need to be adaptable and able to work in different healthcare settings.

If you are interested in becoming a travel nurse or doctor, it’s important to have the necessary qualifications and experience. Most travel nursing and doctor agencies require a minimum of one year of experience in your specialty area, as well as a current nursing or medical license. Some agencies may also require additional certifications or training.

38. Foreign Correspondent/Journalist

Being a foreign correspondent or journalist is one of the most exciting and adventurous travel jobs out there. It involves traveling to different countries and reporting on the news, culture, and events happening there. 

As a foreign correspondent or journalist, you will be responsible for gathering information, conducting interviews, and writing stories that are relevant to your audience. You may work for a news organization or as a freelancer, and you may cover a wide range of topics, from politics and economics to sports and entertainment. 

One of the biggest advantages of being a foreign correspondent or journalist is the opportunity to travel to new and interesting places. You will get to experience different cultures, meet new people, and learn about the world in a way that few other jobs can offer. 

a woman holding a microphone working as a foreign correspondent one of the best travel job

However, being a foreign correspondent or journalist can also be challenging. You may face language barriers, cultural differences, and even danger in some parts of the world. It requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and perseverance to succeed in this field. 

But if you have a passion for writing, a curious mind, and a sense of adventure, then a career as a foreign correspondent or journalist may be the perfect travel job for you. Just be prepared for the unexpected and be willing to take risks in order to get the story!

39. Travel Videographer

Being a travel videographer is a dream job for many people who love to travel and capture stunning visuals of different cultures, landscapes, and people. As a travel videographer, your job is to create engaging and informative videos that showcase different travel destinations, attractions, and experiences.

Travel videographers work for travel companies, tourism boards, media outlets, and individual clients. They travel to different locations, set up their equipment, and capture footage that tells a story and captures the essence of the place. 

They also often edit and produce the final video, adding music, sound effects, and narration to create a compelling and informative piece of content.

To become a travel videographer, you need to have a strong portfolio of work that demonstrates your skills in capturing and editing video footage. You also need to have a good understanding of different camera equipment, lighting, and sound recording techniques. 

Overall, though, with the rise of social media and online video content, there’s a growing demand for high-quality travel videos that showcase different destinations and experiences. So, if you have the skills and the passion, there’s no better time to pursue your dream job as a travel videographer.

a man working as a videographer one of the best travel job

40. Hotel Manager

As a hotel manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a hotel, ensuring that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. This role requires excellent communication and leadership skills, as well as the ability to manage budgets and work with a variety of stakeholders. 

To be successful in this role, you will need to have a strong attention to detail and the ability to multitask. You will also need to be able to work well under pressure and be comfortable making decisions quickly. 

One of the benefits of working as a hotel manager is the opportunity to work in a variety of locations. Many hotels are part of larger chains, which means that you may have the opportunity to travel and work in different cities or even different countries. 

For this same reason, checking with these chains can be a good starting point for finding your dream travel job in this field.

41. Destination Wedding Planner

Are you looking for a career that combines your love of travel with your passion for event planning? Consider becoming a destination wedding planner! 

As a destination wedding planner, you’ll work with couples to plan and coordinate their dream wedding in a stunning location. One of the most exciting aspects of being a destination wedding planner is the opportunity to travel to exotic locations. 

You’ll work closely with couples to choose the perfect destination, whether it’s a beach in Bali or a vineyard in Tuscany. You’ll also be responsible for coordinating all aspects of the wedding, from booking vendors to arranging transportation for guests. 

Many wedding planners start out working for a wedding planning company or as an assistant to an experienced planner. You’ll also need to have excellent communication and organizational skills, as well as the ability to work well under pressure. 

a woman with a tablet working as a wedding planner

In terms of salary, destination wedding planners can earn a comfortable living. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a destination wedding planner in the United States is $41,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on your level of experience and the location of the weddings you plan. 

If you’re interested in becoming a destination wedding planner, start by gaining experience in event planning and the travel industry. Attend industry events and conferences to network with other professionals and learn about the latest trends and technologies. 

With hard work and dedication, you could be planning dream weddings in exotic locations in no time!

42. Scuba Diving Instructor

If you love scuba diving and want to share your passion with others, becoming a scuba diving instructor could be the perfect travel job for you! As a scuba diving instructor, you’ll teach people of all ages and skill levels how to safely explore the underwater world.

To become a certified scuba diving instructor, you’ll need to complete a training program and gain experience diving in a variety of environments. Once you’re certified, you can work for dive shops, resorts, or even start your own business offering scuba diving lessons and tours.

Scuba diving instructors can find work all over the world, from tropical resorts to cold-water destinations. Some of the top places to work as a scuba diving instructor include:

  • The Caribbean
  • The Maldives

As a scuba diving instructor, you’ll have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and share your love of the ocean. You’ll also get to explore some of the most beautiful and remote places on the planet.

So if you’re up for the challenge, becoming a scuba diving instructor can be an incredibly fulfilling travel job that allows you to combine your love of adventure with your passion for teaching others.

a scuba diving class

43. Worker at Music Tours/Festivals

If you love music and enjoy traveling, then working at music tours and festivals could be the perfect job for you. There are numerous positions available in this industry, from music directors to tour managers to publicists. 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the jobs available in the music tours and festivals industry: 

  • Tour managers are responsible for coordinating and managing all aspects of a music tour, from booking venues to arranging transportation to handling logistics. They work closely with the artists and their teams to ensure that everything runs smoothly during the tour. 
  • Publicists are responsible for promoting the tour or festival and generating buzz around the event. They work with the media to secure interviews and coverage of the event, and they also work with the artists’ teams to coordinate press appearances and other promotional activities. 
  • Festival coordinators are responsible for organizing and managing all aspects of a music festival, from booking artists to arranging logistics to coordinating with vendors and sponsors. 
  • Other jobs in the music tours and festivals industry include sound engineers, lighting technicians, stagehands, and security personnel. Each of these positions plays a critical role in ensuring that the tour or festival runs smoothly and that everyone involved has a great experience. 

In conclusion, working in the music tours and festivals industry can be a rewarding and exciting career choice for those who love music and enjoy traveling. There are many different positions available in this industry, and each offers its own unique challenges and rewards.

44. Bartender/Waiter

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to travel while making money, becoming a bartender or waiter on a cruise ship or at a resort could be the perfect job for you. These jobs allow you to see the world while earning a living and meeting new people. 

Given how basically everywhere in the world has a hospitality scene where you could work, you’ll have the chance to visit exotic locations and experience different cultures, all while earning a paycheck. Plus, you’ll meet people from all over the world, which can be a great way to expand your social circle and learn about different ways of life. 

Another advantage of working as a bartender or waiter while traveling is the flexibility of the job. Many cruise lines and resorts offer flexible schedules, which means you can work as much or as little as you want. This can be especially helpful if you’re looking to take time off to explore a new city or country. 

a bartender mixing a cocktail

You don’t necessarily need to have experience in the hospitality industry, although it can help, as can having a friendly and outgoing personality. You’ll also need to be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and be able to handle long hours on your feet. 

It’s also worth mentioning that it’s going to be easier to find a job in this field as a foreigner in some parts of the world than others. In most major western European cities, as well as places like Australia, you’ll regularly find backpackers working behind the bar, so do some research and make your plans accordingly.

45. Au Pair

Being an au pair is a fantastic opportunity for those who love children and want to travel the world. As an au pair, you will live with a host family and take care of their children while they work or travel. In exchange, you will receive free accommodation, meals, and a weekly stipend.

Most au pair jobs require a minimum commitment of six months, and some can last up to a year or more. To be an au pair, you must be at least 18 years old, have some experience working with children, and be able to speak the language of the host country at a conversational level.

One of the great things about being an au pair is that you get to experience a new culture and way of life firsthand. You will have the opportunity to learn the language, try new foods, and make lifelong connections with your host family and other au pairs in the area.

If you’re interested in becoming an au pair, there are many resources available to help you find a host family. Websites like AuPair.com and Go Overseas offer job listings and advice for finding the perfect au pair position.

Before accepting an au pair job, be sure to do your research and ask plenty of questions. Make sure you understand the expectations and responsibilities of the job, as well as the cultural norms of the host country. 

With the right preparation and a positive attitude, being an au pair can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Find out more about: 7 People Who Make $10,000 a Month Just From Their Side Hustle

46. Boarding School Support Staff

Working in a boarding school can be a unique and rewarding experience. As a support staff member, you will have the opportunity to work with students and staff members in a variety of roles. 

In particular, many boarding schools in the UK, France and the UK offer positions to young travelers in exchange for free board. The roles vary, but generally involve helping students through tasks like supervising homework time, providing supervision on day trips out of the school and things like that.

The pay often isn’t fantastic, although the free food and accommodation helps. But it’s a great opportunity to be based somewhere while traveling in the wider region.

47. Yoga Instructor

Did you know that, if you are a certified yoga instructor, you can find travel jobs that allow you to teach yoga to people all over the world?

One way to find yoga instructor jobs is to search for them on websites like Yogatraveljobs, Yoga Trade, and Aya Healthcare. These websites connect yoga instructors with opportunities to teach yoga at resorts, retreats, surf camps, hostels, studios, and even aboard cruise ships and yachts.

Another way to find yoga instructor jobs is to network with other yoga instructors and wellness professionals. Attend yoga retreats, workshops, and conferences to meet other people in the industry and learn about new opportunities.

As a yoga instructor, you can expect to earn anywhere from $20 to $100 per hour, depending on your experience and the location of the job. Some jobs may also provide free accommodations and meals in addition to your salary.

If you are passionate about yoga and love to travel, becoming a yoga instructor can be a great way to combine your two interests. With a little bit of networking and persistence, you can find travel jobs that allow you to share your love of yoga with people all over the world.

You may also be interested in: 28 Best Summer Jobs for Teachers to Earn Extra Money

48. Ski Instructor

Are you an avid skier who loves to teach others how to hit the slopes? Consider becoming a ski instructor! 

Ski resorts around the world are always looking for qualified instructors to teach skiing and snowboarding to guests of all ages and skill levels. As a ski instructor, you’ll spend your days on the mountain, teaching students how to ski or snowboard. 

You’ll work with individuals or groups, helping them to improve their technique and build their confidence on the slopes. You’ll need to be patient, outgoing, and able to communicate effectively with a wide range of people. 

To become a ski instructor, you’ll need to have strong skiing or snowboarding skills and many ski resorts also require instructors to have first aid and CPR certification. 

But there’s no question that working as a ski instructor can be a great way to spend your winter months. Not only do you get to ski every day, but you also get to share your passion for the sport with others. Plus, many ski resorts offer perks such as free lift tickets, discounted gear, and access to employee housing. 

If you’re interested in becoming a ski instructor, start by researching ski resorts in your area or in other parts of the world. Look for job postings on their websites or on job boards such as Indeed or Glassdoor. 

You can also reach out to ski schools or instructors in your network to see if they have any leads or advice. 

When it comes to jobs that require travel and pay well, working as a pilot is one of the best. After all, as a pilot, you’ll have the opportunity to visit destinations all over the world and see things that most people only dream of. 

First of all, the travel perks are unbeatable. As a pilot, you’ll have access to discounted or free travel for yourself and often for family and friends as well. You’ll also have layovers in different cities and countries, giving you the chance to explore new places and cultures.

Not only that, but the job itself is incredibly fulfilling. You’ll be responsible for the safety and comfort of your passengers, and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping people get to where they need to go. 

a pilot one of the best travel job

There’s also a sense of camaraderie among pilots and other aviation professionals, which can make for a supportive and rewarding work environment.

Becoming a pilot does require some pretty extensive training and education, but it’s an achievable goal for anyone who’s willing to put in the work. You’ll need to obtain a pilot’s license and complete flight training, which can be done through flight schools or universities. 

Once you have your license, you can start building flight hours and working towards higher-level certifications.

Of course, working as a pilot isn’t all glamor and adventure. It can be a demanding and stressful job, and it requires a lot of responsibility and attention to detail. 

But for those who love to travel and are passionate about aviation, it can be an incredibly fulfilling and rewarding career choice.

50. Yacht Crew

If you’re looking for a travel job that allows you to see the world while living a luxurious life, then becoming a yacht crew member might be the perfect job for you.

Working on a yacht can be a very unique and exciting experience. Not only do you get to travel to some of the most beautiful and exotic locations in the world, but you also get to work alongside some of the most interesting and diverse people you’ll ever meet.

There are a variety of different roles available on a yacht crew, each with their own set of responsibilities and requirements. Some of the most common positions include:

  • Steward/Stewardess

As a member of the yacht crew, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that the yacht is running smoothly and that the guests are well taken care of. This might include tasks such as cleaning and maintenance, cooking and serving meals, and providing exceptional customer service.

a yacht captain

In order to become a member of a yacht crew, you’ll typically need to have some previous experience in the hospitality or maritime industry. You’ll also need to be physically fit and able to work long hours in sometimes challenging conditions.

However, for those who are willing to put in the work, the rewards can be truly amazing. Not only will you get to see some of the most stunning locations in the world, but you’ll also get to live a life of luxury and adventure that few people ever get to experience.

51. Peace Corps

If you’re looking for a travel job that allows you to make a difference in the world, the Peace Corps might be the perfect fit for you. As a volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a variety of fields, including education, health, agriculture, and the environment. 

The Peace Corps sends volunteers to over 60 countries around the world, so you’ll have plenty of places to choose from!

One of the great things about the Peace Corps is that you don’t need any specific skills or experience to apply. The organization provides training in the language and culture of the country where you’ll be working, as well as the skills you’ll need to do your job. This means that anyone with a desire to help others and a sense of adventure can apply.

As a Peace Corps volunteer, you’ll receive a living stipend that will cover your basic needs, such as housing, food, and transportation. You’ll also receive medical and dental care, and the organization will cover your travel expenses to and from your country of service. 

And after you complete your service, you’ll receive a readjustment allowance to help you transition back to life in the United States.

Keep in mind that the Peace Corps is a serious commitment. Volunteers typically serve for two years, and the work can be challenging. 

However, many former Peace Corps volunteers say that the experience was life-changing and helped them develop skills and perspectives that they use in their personal and professional lives today.

52. Humanitarian Aid Worker

If you have a passion for helping others and a desire to travel the world, then becoming a humanitarian aid worker might be the perfect job for you. 

As an aid worker, you’ll be responsible for providing assistance to those in need during times of crisis or disaster. This can involve everything from delivering food and water to setting up temporary shelters and medical clinics.

While the work can be challenging and often involves working in difficult conditions, it can also be incredibly rewarding. You’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives and help to alleviate suffering in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

There are many different types of roles available within the field of humanitarian aid work, including:

  • Emergency Response Manager
  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Healthcare Worker
  • Community Development Specialist
  • Water and Sanitation Engineer

To become an aid worker, you’ll typically need a relevant degree or professional qualification, as well as some previous experience in a related field. You’ll also need to be willing to travel frequently and work in challenging conditions.

two humanitarian aid worker holding a sack of rice

While the pay for aid workers can vary depending on the organization and the role, it’s important to remember that this is a job that offers more than just financial rewards. The opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives and to help those in need is something that many people find incredibly fulfilling and rewarding.

53. Foreign Service

Another exciting travel job is working for the Foreign Service. This is a career in the United States Department of State, where you can represent your country in various diplomatic missions abroad. 

The Foreign Service has different specialties, including consular, economic, political, public diplomacy, and management.

To become a Foreign Service Officer, you need to pass a rigorous selection process that includes a written exam, an oral assessment, and a security clearance. It’s also essential to have a bachelor’s degree and work experience.

Foreign Service Officers can work in different parts of the world, from Europe to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. They can serve in embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic missions, where they are responsible for promoting U.S. interests, facilitating trade and investment, providing consular services to U.S. citizens, and engaging with local communities.

Working for the Foreign Service can be challenging and rewarding at the same time. You can learn new languages, cultures, and skills, and make a difference in people’s lives. You can also enjoy many benefits, such as a competitive salary, health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation.

If you’re interested in the Foreign Service, you can visit the careers website of the U.S. Department of State and learn more about the application process, the job requirements, and the available positions. You can also attend career fairs, networking events, and informational sessions to meet current and former Foreign Service Officers and get their insights and advice.

54. Masseur

Working as a masseur can be a great travel job for people who love to explore new places. As a masseur, you have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, from luxury resorts to cruise ships, and provide your services to clients all over the world.

Not to mention that working as a masseur can also be a flexible and independent career choice. You can work as a freelancer, offering your services to clients in different locations, or work for a specific employer in the travel or hospitality industry. This can allow you to set your own schedule and work on your own terms.

a woman working as a masseur one of the best travel job

To become a masseur, you’ll need to obtain the necessary training and certification. This can be done through massage therapy schools or programs, which typically require several hundred hours of training and practical experience. 

Once you have your certification, you can start looking for job opportunities in the travel and hospitality industry in the countries that you’re interested in visiting.

Of course, working as a masseur requires physical stamina and the ability to work with different clients and their unique needs. But for those who are passionate about wellness and enjoy traveling, it can be an incredibly fulfilling and rewarding career choice.

As a Chef, there are a variety of opportunities to travel and work in different locations. Whether you are a Sous Chef, Executive Chef, or just starting out in your culinary career, there are many options available to you. 

One option is to work as a traveling Chef. This type of job involves working for a company that provides catering services or food for events. You may be required to travel to different locations for events, such as weddings, corporate events, or private parties. 

Another option is to work as a Chef on a cruise ship. This type of job allows you to travel to different destinations while working in a professional kitchen. You will be responsible for preparing meals for guests on the ship, and may have the opportunity to explore different ports of call during your downtime. 

Working as a Chef in a foreign country is also an option for those who love to travel. Many resorts and hotels in popular tourist destinations hire Chefs from around the world to provide guests with unique culinary experiences. This can be a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture while honing your culinary skills. 

No matter what type of travel job you choose as a Chef, it is important to have a passion for food and a willingness to learn and adapt to new environments. With hard work and dedication, a career as a traveling Chef can be both rewarding and exciting.

a man and a woman working as a chef one of the best travel job

What is the highest paying travel job? 

It’s worth noting that salary can vary greatly depending on the job, experience, and location, but there are definitely some jobs that require travel and pay well out there that can bring in some serious cash.

One of the highest paying travel jobs is being a pilot. Not only do pilots get to travel to various destinations around the world, but they also earn a very respectable salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for airline and commercial pilots is over $121,000, with some earning well over $200,000 per year.

Another high-paying travel job is that of a consultant. Depending on the field you’re in and the company you work for, this can definitely be one of the best corporate jobs that require travel and pay well. 

Consultants often travel to various locations to provide advice and guidance to clients. They can work in a variety of fields, including business, technology, and healthcare, and can earn a median annual salary of around $85,000, with some earning much more than that.

If you’re interested in healthcare, being a traveling nurse or doctor can also be a lucrative career path. Traveling nurses and doctors can earn very high hourly rates, especially if they work in areas that are in high demand. 

Some travel nurses and doctors can earn over $100 per hour, and with the added benefit of travel and accommodations being covered, it can be a very attractive option.

Related: 7 Income Streams of Millionaires (That You Need Too)

What jobs allow you to travel a lot?

There are plenty of jobs that offer the opportunity to travel frequently, whether it’s for work-related purposes or because the job itself requires travel. Here are some examples:

  • Flight attendant: This is probably one of the most well-known travel jobs, as flight attendants travel frequently as part of their job duties.
  • Travel writer/blogger: If you’re a talented writer and love to explore new places, becoming a travel writer or blogger can be a dream job that allows you to travel to different destinations and share your experiences with the world.
  • Tour guide: Tour guides typically work in the travel industry and lead groups of people on tours of various destinations, which means they get to travel frequently.
  • Sales representative: If you work in sales, you may have the opportunity to travel frequently to meet with clients or attend conferences and trade shows.

a woman working as a tour guide one of the best travel job

  • Event planner: Event planners are often required to travel to various locations to organize and oversee events, such as conferences, weddings, and festivals.
  • Cruise ship worker: Working on a cruise ship can be a great way to travel to multiple destinations while earning a living.
  • Foreign correspondent/journalist: Journalists and correspondents often travel to different locations to report on news and events happening around the world.
  • Peace Corps volunteer: The Peace Corps offers the opportunity to travel to different countries and make a difference in communities around the world.

These are just a few examples of jobs that allow you to travel frequently, but there are plenty of other options out there depending on your skills and interests.

How much money can I make in a travel job?

The amount of money you can make in a travel job varies greatly depending on the industry, the position, and your level of experience. Some travel jobs, like flight attendants and pilots, can pay quite well, while others may have lower salaries but offer other benefits like travel perks or the ability to work remotely.

And if you freelance, the sky’s basically the limit in terms of how much you can earn. There are plenty of bloggers, for example, earning five- and even six-figures a month – including while they travel! So why can’t you do the same?

How do I start traveling the world?

Starting to travel the world can seem daunting at first, but with a bit of planning and preparation, it’s definitely achievable. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  • Set a goal: Decide what you want to get out of traveling, whether it’s to experience new cultures, learn a language, or simply relax and recharge. Setting a goal will help you stay focused and motivated.
  • Plan your budget: Determine how much money you can afford to spend on your travels and create a budget that accounts for transportation, accommodations, food, and activities.
  • Choose a destination: There are so many amazing destinations to choose from, so start by doing some research to find a place that interests you. Consider factors like weather, culture, language, and affordability.
  • Decide on the length of your trip: Determine how long you can afford to be away and plan your itinerary accordingly. Keep in mind that longer trips will require more planning and budgeting.

a flight attendant on a plane

  • Make travel arrangements: Book your flights, accommodations, and transportation in advance to ensure you get the best deals and avoid any last-minute stress.
  • Prepare for your trip: Make sure you have all the necessary travel documents, like your passport and any visas, and take care of any vaccinations or medications you may need. Pack appropriate clothing and gear for your destination and ensure you have a plan for communication and money management.
  • Be open to new experiences: Traveling is all about stepping outside of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences. Be open to trying new foods, meeting new people, and exploring new places.

Remember, everyone’s travel style and preferences are different, so it’s important to find what works best for you. With some careful planning and an open mind, you can start your journey to seeing the world.

How do I start a travel job?

Starting a travel job requires a bit of research and preparation, but it can be an exciting and rewarding career path. Here are some steps to get started:

  • Determine your skills and interests: Take stock of your skills and interests and consider how they can be applied to the travel industry. For example, if you love writing and photography, a career as a travel blogger or photographer might be a good fit.
  • Research job opportunities: Look for job postings that seem to offer the flexibility you need (and allow remote work, if that’s the kind of travel job you’re going for) and research the requirements and qualifications for each position. Reach out to professionals in the industry and ask for advice on how to get started.
  • Get the necessary education and training: Depending on the job you’re interested in, you may need to get a degree or certification in a specific field. For example, becoming a travel agent may require training and certification from a travel school.
  • Gain experience: Look for internships, entry-level positions, or freelance opportunities that can help you gain experience and build your portfolio. That said, you can even turn this into a travel job in itself given that volunteering or working abroad can also be a great way to gain relevant experience.
  • Build your network: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with professionals in the relevant industry to build your network and learn about travel job opportunities.
  • Be persistent: It’s not always easy to find a job or launch your own thing that will allow you to travel the world, so don’t be discouraged if everything doesn’t fall into place right away. Keep working on building your skills and experience, and stay open to opportunities as they arise.

a travel blogger with her laptop

How do I become a full time traveler?

Becoming a full-time traveler is a dream for many people, but it can also be a challenging lifestyle to maintain. Here are some steps to help you become a full-time traveler:

  • Determine your budget: Before you can become a full-time traveler, it’s important to determine your budget and how much you can afford to spend on travel. Consider your current expenses and how they can be reduced or eliminated to make room for travel expenses.
  • Create a plan: Determine your itinerary and how you will get from one destination to another. Consider the cost of transportation, accommodations, food, and activities.
  • Find ways to make money on the road: Consider ways to make money while traveling, such as freelancing, starting your own business, or working remotely. There are many different types of jobs that can be done from anywhere in the world, so do some research to find the right fit for you.
  • Downsize your possessions: To become a full-time traveler, you’ll need to downsize your possessions and only bring the essentials. Consider selling or donating items that you don’t need and invest in high-quality travel gear that will last.
  • Be flexible: Traveling full-time requires a certain level of flexibility, as plans can change and unexpected expenses can arise. Be prepared to adjust your itinerary and budget as needed.
  • Build a support network: Surround yourself with people who support your travel lifestyle and can provide advice and assistance along the way. Connect with other full-time travelers and join travel communities online to stay connected.

Becoming a full-time traveler definitely requires a bit of planning and preparation, but it can also be a rewarding and life-changing experience. Stay focused on your goals and be open to new opportunities and experiences along the way.

How do full time travelers make money?

Full-time travelers make money in a variety of ways, depending on their skills and interests. Here are some common ways full-time travelers make money:

  • Freelancing: Many full-time travelers work as freelancers, offering their services in areas such as writing, graphic design, web development, or digital marketing. This allows them to work from anywhere in the world and set their own hours.
  • Remote work: Some full-time travelers work for companies that allow them to work remotely. This can include jobs in areas such as customer service, IT, or project management.
  • Starting a business: Full-time travelers can start their own businesses, such as online stores or consulting services, that can be operated from anywhere in the world.
  • Blogging or vlogging: Full-time travelers can make money by sharing their travel experiences through blogging or vlogging. This can include earning revenue through advertising, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing.

a travel vlogger one of the best travel job

  • Teaching or tutoring: Full-time travelers can teach English or other subjects online, or provide tutoring services in their areas of expertise.
  • Seasonal work: Some full-time travelers work seasonal jobs, such as working at a ski resort during the winter or working at a national park during the summer.
  • Work exchanges: Full-time travelers can participate in work exchanges, where they provide their labor in exchange for free accommodations and sometimes meals.

There are a ton of different ways to make money as a full-time traveler. It’s important to find a source of income that aligns with your skills and interests, and that allows you to maintain your travel lifestyle.

What are some traveling jobs that pay well with no experience?

While many high-paying travel jobs require a certain level of education or experience, there are some opportunities available that may not require previous experience. Here are a few examples of traveling jobs that can pay well and may not require experience:

  • Au pair: An au pair is a domestic assistant who is hired to care for children in a family’s home. While experience with children can be helpful, it’s not always required, and some families may provide training. Pay varies depending on the location and specific job duties.
  • House sitter: House sitting involves staying in someone else’s home while they are away, usually to take care of pets or plants. While experience can be helpful, it’s not always required, and some homeowners may provide training. Pay can vary depending on the location and specific job duties.
  • Travel blogger or influencer: While it can take time to build an audience and start earning money as a travel blogger or influencer, it is possible to make a good income through sponsorships, advertising, and other revenue streams.
  • Cruise ship worker: Some cruise ship jobs, such as housekeeping or food service, may not require previous experience, and many cruise lines provide training. Pay varies depending on the specific job and experience level.
  • Tour guide: While some tour guide jobs may require previous experience or education, others may provide on-the-job training. Pay can vary depending on the location and specific job duties.
  • Language teacher: Many people around the world are interested in learning English, and some language schools may hire native English speakers without prior teaching experience. Pay varies depending on the location and specific job duties.

So while experience can be helpful in many jobs, there are opportunities available for those who are willing to learn and work hard. 

a man working as a tourist guide one of the best travel job

What are some jobs that pay for travel and housing?

There are some jobs that not only offer the opportunity to travel but also provide travel and housing expenses as part of the job. Here are a few examples of such jobs:

  • Flight attendant: Airlines typically provide their flight attendants with travel and housing expenses while on the job.
  • Cruise ship worker: Cruise lines provide their workers with travel and accommodations while on board the ship.
  • Peace Corps volunteer: The Peace Corps provides its volunteers with travel, housing, and a living stipend while they are serving in another country.
  • Travel nurse: Travel nurses are often offered housing and travel expenses, in addition to their salary, to work in different locations for short periods of time.
  • International aid worker: Some organizations that provide humanitarian aid around the world offer their workers with travel and housing expenses.
  • English teacher abroad: Some programs that place English teachers abroad provide their teachers with travel and housing expenses, in addition to their salary.

These jobs can be competitive and often require specific qualifications and experience, but if you do your research and consider what type of job and location would be the best fit for you, there’s absolutely no reason why you can’t snag one for yourself!

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Anna is the founder of LogicalDollar and a personal finance expert, having been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Reader’s Digest, Bankrate, MSN Money, Yahoo! Finance, CreditCards.com and many more. With more than 10 years of experience in the financial and legal industries, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in these fields, as well as her own journey in turning $60,000 in debt into a thriving investment portfolio, she’s committed to helping others get on the path to financial freedom.

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Travel Jobs: The 60 Best Jobs for Travelers & How To Get Them (Secrets of a 10-Year Nomad)

Do you want to be a full-time traveler? Does the “real world” leave you running for the exit? Then it’s time to take a look at these travel jobs!

You can absolutely get travel jobs with no experience in travel and with only a little work history.

I myself was a modern nomad for around 10 years. I started getting seasonal travel jobs during college, with very little work experience. Along the way, I met people older and younger than me from all sorts of backgrounds. Most of us in this nomad circle find it very easy to find new travel jobs when we’re ready to move on to the next adventure.

You DON’T need to become a flight attendant, a traveling business executive, or even have a college degree to get exciting new travel jobs year after year. There’s no need to trap yourself in a stuffy, rigid career with a single company. Travel should come with the freedom to wander, and with these jobs, it does.

Here are 60 adventurous jobs for travelers of all ages and experience levels. You’ll also find examples and links to adventurous travel jobs you can apply for right now .

Keep in mind that all travel jobs on WanderJobs come with staff housing.

Part 1: Adventure Travel Jobs

1. international travel tour guide.

travel and tours work

Lead tour groups on multi-city, multi-country cultural or adventure tours. Required Experience: High

As a travel tour guide, you may be traveling through quaint European cities to sample local wines and chocolates, attending cultural events, and meandering through bustling marketplaces. Or you may choose to lead a group of teens on an outdoor adventure tour, hiking the Himalayas, surfing in Hawai’i, and volunteering in Peru. With this travel job, you’ll have the same accommodations as the guests, which, for the more bougie tours, can mean some of the most luxurious accommodations of any job on this list. You may be put up in some stunning hotels. For some teen tour companies, you may be camping or staying in hostels. Your food will be the same as the guests, so it’s generally very good quality. While exciting, this is a very challenging role. There is little off time, as you’re living and traveling with the group you’re leading. Many tour groups put two guides in a group to break up the enormous work load. Though many companies offer multiple tours that go to many different destinations, it’s not always possible to choose where you get placed. Usually newer guides are given easier assignments, but many companies at least take your preferences into account.

How to Get a Travel Tour Guide Job:

These companies look for well-traveled applicants with high self-confidence and a very outgoing personality. You must be friendly, responsible, and highly organized. This is a job for people who are high-energy and have a good amount of work experience. You can browse Travel Tour Guide Jobs here.

2. Conservation Crew

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Work to preserve trails with a small team in this manual-labor heavy outdoor job. Required Experience: Low

Trail teams usually consist of a handful of young people who are willing to put in a hard day’s work, face the elements, and survive off of peanut butter sandwiches. The locations are enviable; you could find yourself in a ponderosa forest in Flagstaff, the lush Pacific Northwest, or even in tropical American Samoa. It’s the sort of job where the challenge brings great rewards. A hard day’s work using your muscles, being immersed in nature, and bonding with your small team makes you feel proud, calm, and connected at the end of the day. Many trail crew positions require a few weeks on, a few weeks off, in a cycle of a few months. Some positions come with housing during your off time (you’ll be camping on the job), but sometimes you’ll need to find your own. Food is up to the team, and the goal tends to be survival calories and keeping pack weight down, not creating gourmet delicacies. Trail conservation positions are often volunteer-based, though not all are. The paid positions are usually for more supervisory roles after you’ve had some experience on a volunteer team. Volunteers may be paid in small stipends and small education grants.

How to Get a Conservation Crew Job:

The two best known sources of conservation crew positions in the US are the Student Conservation Association and the American Conservation Alliance . You won’t need much experience to get a volunteer position, but you’ll need some to be a paid team leader.

3. Travel Camp Leader

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Guide youth and teens on multi-country cultural and outdoor adventure trips. Required Experience: High

Travel camps boast bucket-list worthy itineraries. As far as a travel job goes, it’s hard to beat one where you’re literally traveling from beautiful place to beautiful place. These companies usually sell expensive packages to the parents of school-aged kids, which means:

  • You’ll be going to exiting places, some that would be hard to get to on your own
  • There are many physical adventures, since the kids have the energy for them

A real itinerary from one company includes:

  • Fly in to an island city in Guatemala
  • Bike through a tropical rainforest environment to explore Mayan pyramids
  • Roam ancient ceremonial caverns
  • Enjoy a zipline tour
  • Relax by the hotel pool
  • Sample local chocolate

This is an adventure you can share with the kids. If they’re doing it, you can be sure you’ll be doing it too, as a participant and role model. But that also means there’s no time off. It’s a 24/7 job.

How to Get a Travel Camp Leader Job:

These companies are looking for a bit more leadership experience under your belt. They want employees who are well-traveled and culturally aware, and appreciate foreign language skills. You’ll also need to be a good communicator. The easiest way to find travel camp companies is to search google as if you’re a kid looking to sign up to attend one. Then find the employment page when you’re on the site. “International teen travel tours” is a good search term to start with. You’ll also find some travel camp tours on WanderJobs.

travel and tours work

Care for children and preform light household duties while living abroad with a host family for a year. Required Experience: Low

This travel job is an old classic. To get the flavor of what it means to be an au pair, think of the movie The Sound of Music. While you are technically employed by the family, the idea is that in some sense, you are joining as part of the family and helping to raise the kids. In this US, Au pairs are paid with a stipend of a minimum of around $200/week. Au pairs seek employment in countries other than their own. One of the biggest benefits of this line of work is the cultural and language exchange between family and au pair.

You’ll go on vacations with your host family, meet their friends, attend recitals and barbecues and celebrate holidays. It all comes down to the match between au pair and family, which makes or breaks the experience.

I was very fortunate to grow up with au pairs from Norway. Each year, a new young woman came to care for me and my brothers, and most of them were very good matches. (A few left quickly.) Those who stayed are still, 20 and 30 years later, a loving part of our family. They visit us when they are in the states, we have stayed with them and their families in Norway, we exchanges letters and Christmas gifts and attend each other’s weddings.

However, there are some very bad stories of women coming from other countries and feeling completely trapped with families who verbally abuse them and make them work well beyond the hours indicated in their contracts. While there is usually a possibility of being placed with a different family if this happens, be very cautious and listen to your gut if a red flag comes up.

How to Get an Au Pair Job:

You’ll need to be able to demonstrate that you’re a good, reliable, and kind person who is good with children. Since au pairs are usually in their late teens, not much previous work experience is expected. Au pairs tend to be young women. Young men have a tough time being placed, as host families aren’t always comfortable leaving their kids with a man they’ve just met.

However, this is rapidly changing with the childcare crisis brought on by the Covid pandemic. Many families are now considering hiring young men for the first time, and it’s possible the perspective shift will be long-lasting. As of summer 2020, host families in the US are desperate for childcare, and au pairs are getting interview requests from up to fifty families, according to the 7/26/20 New York Times article, Au Pairs Get the Upper Hand. It seems likely that families will be willing to consider even domestic au pairs and forgo the benefit of an international cultural exchange.

There are many au pair matching sites where you can find a host family and make sure you feel comfortable with them before making a commitment.

5. Gap Year Program Leader

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Lead older students on multi-country, adventure, and volunteering trips geared toward education and personal growth. Required Experience: High

Working as a gap year leader offers a slightly different experience than working as a travel tour leader. The people you’ll be leading are usually high school or college-aged youth who are actively looking to expand themselves as people and gain an education before heading off for their next year of college.

Many of the itineraries will resemble the highly adventurous itineraries of other travel camps. In addition, there may be more formal educational lectures, time for reflection and journaling, or preparing personal mission statements.

How to Get a Gap Year Leader Job:

You’ll need plenty of travel and leadership experience and at least a college degree.

Just like finding a travel camp company, the simplest plan is to search google as if you’re looking to attend a gap year program. Then find the employment page when you’re on the site.

6. SCUBA Instructor/Guide

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Help tourists have safe, fun SCUBA diving adventures in warm tropical waters. Required Experience: High

Unlike other travel jobs on this list, SCUBA is more of a career commitment. It requires certification and experience in a very specific niche, so you need to have interest in committing to SCUBA long-term to make it worthwhile.

Those who I’ve met who are SCUBA instructors make it part of their personality. They love it, and it’s easy to understand why. Dive instructors usually live on islands and in tropical locations, where relaxed and laid-back attitudes are the norm. You get to spend time in the ocean, seeing beautiful reefs and sharks and fish, and tour groups max out at just a few people to keep it manageable. You’ll have to care for a lot of equipment, do regular checks, and be comfortable guiding tourists through potentially dangerous situations. An outgoing personality is much less important than generally good communication skills.

How to Get a SCUBA Job:

The most important thing you’ll need to do is become certified as a professional divemaster through PADI and log many hours SCUBA diving.

SCUBA instructors should be extremely responsible, organized, and safety-oriented people. SCUBA jobs can be a bit more challenging to find. Often job boards for SCUBA slowly turn into advertisements for certification courses. For now, you can try DiveJobs .

7. Zip Line Guide

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Lead guests through a zip line course and tell them about the area. Required Experience: Medium

Zip line guides work in pairs to take small groups of tourists through areas of natural beauty in a thrilling way. Being a zip line guide (as I know from short personal experience) is physically challenging and mentally draining. But it can be a lot of fun. The guests are usually in a good mood and excited to be doing something from their bucket list. A good zip line company will provide a lot of safety training- weeks- which makes for great team bonding among coworkers. Zip lines are generally built in beautiful places, which means you’ll be working outdoors in a nature or even wilderness setting. Leading a group of guests means you’ll need to make a safety presentation, get them in harnesses, and hook and unhook them from the zip lines. Often you’ll be giving a general informational tour while up on the course. This means you’ll be doing some public speaking, but it’s an amount that even a shy person can get used to. Tips for zip line guides can be pretty darn good.

How to Get a Zipline Guide Job:

Search zip line guide jobs on WanderJobs or on any major job board.

8. Small Vessel/River Cruise Staff

travel and tours work

Live and work aboard a smaller and more luxurious cruise vessel catering to older and wealthier guests. Required Experience: High

Sometimes the allure of being aboard a boat and exploring different ports is too strong to ignore. Luckily, working aboard a massive cruise liner is not the only option. River cruises are smaller and more intimate, and offer guests a higher level of service. For this reason, the job competition is a bit tougher. Small cruise itineraries include off-the-beaten-path locations, such as:

  • The Puget Sound
  • Small, less-trafficked tropical islands
  • European river tours
  • Custom itineraries
  • & lots more

In addition, charter cruises often have a more environmentally or culturally-friendly slant. They may be opportunities for guests to participate in hands-on education, and “excursions” off the ship are significantly more thrilling and less touristy. To get an idea, National Geographic has a few passenger ships, and offers a breathtaking Journey to Antarctica cruise with a $16,000 price tag. You’ll still be in close quarters with your coworkers pretty much constantly, but all in all, staff life on a small cruise is less of a party atmosphere than on a cruise liner.

How to Get a Small Vessel/Charter Cruise Job:

A google search is best. Again, do the search as if you’re looking to pay to be a guest on the cruise. Once you find a company you like, look for its employment page. You will need to be well traveled and have excellent customer service skills to get one of these jobs.

9. Scenic River Float Guide

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Safely row guests through currents on guided river raft tours.

Required Experience: High

As a scenic river tour guide, you’ll steer a raft full of tourists down a large, slower-moving river, while giving them a guided tour along the way. It’s a highly physically and mentally demanding job. It takes an all-around strong and confident person to excel as a river guide. Unlike whitewater, the current is fairly calm. Tourists come for the scenery and a relaxing adventure rather than an extreme thrill. Imagine floating down the Snake River famously photographed by Ansel Adams, while watching for eddies and dangers and pointing out eagles and beavers along the forested shoreline. There is still a high amount of danger inherent in scenic river guiding. Rafts have been overturned by logs, rocks, and surprising currents. If a raft is overturns, things can become chaotic and unsafe, sometimes to the point of fatality. There is an art to mastering the river, and because of this, river rafting is a commitment and more of a career choice than some other jobs on this list. A good company will provide a huge amount of safety training, and will likely also require applicants to be trained and certified before even applying for a job. If you can handle the responsibility, working as a river guide can be a very rewarding experience. There may also be opportunities for crossover into whitewater rafting jobs. It’s an excellent job for outdoor enthusiasts.

How to Get a Scenic Float Guide Job:

I haven’t yet found any reliable source of leads for this type of job. Try searching google for any combination of “scenic river float guide jobs” and “river rafting jobs”.

10. Kayak Guide

travel and tours work

Lead a caravan of kayaks through calm and beautiful waters. Required Experience: Low

Kayak guides lead tourists on lake tours or coastal ocean tours, weaving out of narrow, magical tree-lined inlets. It’s one of the simpler ways to get out on the water for work. You’ll need enough people skills to kindly introduce yourself and teach kayaking safety basics, but it’s an easy choice for introverts. Once you’re out on the water, it’s just a game of follow the leader and making sure nobody falls behind. You will need strength and stamina for paddling, but that will build over time.

You’ll usually be leading people of many different ages, and often families, on a single tour. Kayak guides are needed in many different types of environments. From small lodges on cold Alaskan waters and while migration routes, to Mediterranean environments with rocky, scrubby shorelines, you’ll be able to seek out a location that fits your preferences. There are even night kayak tours in bioluminescent bays. Each stroke of the paddle through the water causes bacteria to glow an etherial blue. It’s quite beautiful and relaxing.

How to Get a Kayak Guide Job:

Find Kayak Guide jobs on WanderJobs .

11. Ski/Snowboard Instructor 

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Help vacationers (often groups of kids) improve their skiing and snowboarding skills. Required Experience: Medium

Ski instructing is one of the best known seasonal jobs for young people. There are abundant positions available every ski season across the globe, so if you want a ski job and you know how to ski (and are decent at interviewing), you will probably be hired.

The culture on mountains and among seasonal ski employees is very specific. This, in my opinion, is the most important thing to consider before accepting a ski job, even more important than your love of the sport. You’ll be around lots of young people who like to party, to “work hard, play hard,” who aren’t yet settled in life and want to “go big or go home.” Duuuuuddddeeee!

This is a job absolutely best left to extroverts, and ideally young extroverts. You’ll of course also need to be fit and comfortable with lots of public speaking.

Ski and snowboard instructor jobs come with mountain passes so you can spend as much of your free time on the slopes as you want. This, of course, is one of the main reasons people commit to a season on a mountain. If there’s fresh snow, it’s yours to shred, and there will be lots of coworkers around to join you.

There is a hierarchy of ski jobs, and if you stay in the game for a while you can move from a bunny slope youth group instructor to giving private adult lessons, or even work your way to a ski patrol position.

Not all mountains offer housing for their ski instructors, but many do. Those that don’t may at least have resources to help you find your own housing before you arrive.

How to Get a Ski Instructor Job:

While it’s possible to get certified as a ski instructor before applying for your job, I don’t recommend this. Your home mountain will train you, and if they require further certifications for teaching at higher levels, you can earn those after you start working. I wouldn’t pay to be certified before actually starting work.

Find ski and snowboard jobs on WanderJobs or any major job board.

12. High Ropes/Aerial Course Guide

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Teach tourists to safely navigate ropes courses, preform safety checks, and be present to help if needed. Required Experience: Low

Aerial high ropes courses can be found near many wilderness lodges, as they’re often a draw for they same type of outdoorsy tourist. They’re also found near cruise ship ports, which brings a whole ‘nother type of guest. So while you’ll have a beautiful view and access to fun recreational activities, the job itself is genuinely pretty dull.

Aside from a thorough daily safety check of the course and all gear, there isn’t all that much to the job. You’ll spend a lot of time staring up at guests as they go through the course, walkie-talkie in hand, making sure nothing dangerous happens. Occasionally you’ll have to shout up encouraging tips from the ground, or “rescue” someone from an obstacle they can’t solve.

High ropes guides often cross over into rock wall and zip line territory.

It’s an easy, low-responsibility job for a first time seasonal worker. The title “guide” is a bit of an exaggeration; it may feel like more of a babysitter position.

It’s a good job for young people.

How to Get a High Ropes Guide Job:

Search for jobs here on WanderJobs or on any major job board.

13. Horse Wrangler

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Care for and train horses and lead guided horseback tours.

Horse wrangling requires early mornings, long hours, and intense physical labor. Most available jobs are on ranches in the western US. 

If you have experience with horses, love being outside, and don’t mind getting dirty, then this could be an exciting job. In addition to herding animals, wranglers are responsible for feeding, saddling, grooming, and training the horses, leading trail rides, and cleaning the stalls. 

Horse wrangling requires working around the clock and is best for people without many commitments. Your responsibilities will depend a lot on your prior experience, training, and seniority. As a beginner, you probably won’t be doing much wrangling – you can expect to start out shoveling manure and grooming the horses. 

There are various horse wrangler jobs available on public land as well as privately owned ranches. Each ranch has its own set of rules, requirements, and exclusions that you’ll want to review carefully before deciding where to apply.

Once hired, you’ll likely attend wrangler school for four to six weeks. You will learn essential skills, including trail riding and horseshoeing, and cover topics such as horse behavior and anatomy. 

Ranches cultivate a close community where employees are treated like family. Personal life and work often blend together. While permanent positions include paid time off, many of the seasonal ranch jobs require you to work straight through the season with no weekends or vacation days. 

Due to the remote location, there are few activities available off of the ranch. Workers typically spend the little downtime they have exploring the countryside or relaxing by a campfire.  

Most ranches provide employees with family-style meals and dormitory lodging. Depending on your attitude going into the job, horse wrangling could be one of the most rewarding or most miserable experiences of your life. If you’re willing to trade sleep and time off for riding horses and watching the sunrise over the mountains, then you’ll likely find a lot of personal growth and fulfillment in working on a ranch. 

How to Get a Wrangler Job:

Browse through ranches on WanderJobs and check individual company websites to see if they are currently hiring for wrangler staff. The competition is high, so it’s worth reaching out to companies to establish a relationship even if there are no positions open.

14. Backcountry Guide

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Lead overnight backpacking trips into the wilderness.

If you love the mountains and are always seeking out wilderness adventures, becoming a backcountry guide could be a good employment option. In addition to guiding groups safely in remote areas, guides are responsible for coaching clients through physically and mentally demanding situations, teaching them the technical skills needed to navigate tough terrain, and managing risk. 

To land a job as a backcountry guide, you’ll need advanced certifications in wilderness safety and first aid, a backcountry food handlers permit, and proven expertise in disciplines like rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, ice climbing, mountaineering, and ski touring. The position entails a large amount of responsibility – backcountry guides must have sound decision-making in risky situations, excellent interpersonal skills, and passion for adventure. 

As a beginner, it’s best to join a local alpinist club and explore training options with a mountain guide association. Depending on your location and what field you’re hoping to work in, you may need a certification from the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA), one of the industry’s most recognized and respected organizations. 

Getting the necessary certifications can be a long process, but if you’re prepared for the rigors required, you will join a close international community of intrepid explorers. Backcountry guiding affords ample opportunity to travel to some of the world’s most amazing wilderness areas. When you’re not camping in the backcountry, you’ll likely have free housing at a mountain hut or remote resort. 

How to Get a Backcountry Guide Job:

Browse Backdoorjobs for available backcountry guiding positions.

15. Fruit Picking Abroad

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Harvest, sort, & pack fruit on farms with other travelers in Australia.

Required Experience: Low

Picking fruit is a physically demanding job that requires early mornings and long hours in the sun. You’ll likely have aches and pains – particularly at the beginning – from the repetitive motions and hard labor. 

Fruit picking jobs exist in any agricultural area, but different regions have varying levels of open positions based on the availability of migrant labor. The most interesting opportunities for young people are located in Australia, where it’s possible to extend your visa by a year in exchange for three months of fruit picking, and in New Zealand.

While most jobs are seasonal, fruit-picking work is available in Australia year-round. Positions down under typically attract students and backpackers, so you’ll likely work with an eclectic group of travelers from around the world. 

There are no particular skills or previous experience required to get a job picking fruit. As long as you are willing to work hard and show up on time each day, you shouldn’t have a problem holding onto your job throughout the season. 

Many farms offer workers accommodation for free or at a reduced price. The type and quality of housing vary substantially from one farm to the next. You could be placed in a crowded caravan with six other people, or get a small bungalow all to yourself. 

How to Get a Fruit Picking Job:

On the Australian Work Travel Visa, you can work and play your way through the country and apply for many different jobs. Fruit picking seems to be one of the lower hanging fruits- pun intended. The job search and application process is a little more messy and requires more spontaneity and flexibility. Here is a handy guide .

16. Yacht Crew

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Work for an individual employer or traveling family aboard a private yacht or sailing vessel.

Required Experience: Medium

While yachting is associated with luxury, working on a private yacht is rarely glamorous. The experience is highly dependent on the owners of the yacht, the captain, and the guests on each voyage. Some clients are relaxed and down to earth, while others can be demanding and even rude. 

In general, being part of a yacht crew is tiring work with long hours – on a typical day, you should plan to wake up before dawn and work well past sunset. Responsibilities include cleaning the yacht, assisting with food and beverage service, and fulfilling clients’ various requests. 

If you love the sea and are ready for the service industry’s demands, working on a yacht crew can be a great way to sail for free while also earning some income. Crew positions are available on private yachts worldwide. As long as you have exceptional customer service and at least some knowledge of boats, you have a good chance of being hired. 

Crew cabins tend to be cramped and lack the luxurious feel of the rest of the yacht. Since you’ll spend a lot of time with the other staff members in close quarters, the group’s personality can make or break your experience. 

How to Get a Yacht Crew Job:

One of the best known yacht job boards is Find a Crew . Since you’ll be talking to individuals rather than incorporated companies, the process can be a little sketchier. Use your judgement.

17. Bicycle Trip Leader

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Lead guided travel tour trips through picturesque cities and adventurous locations.

Traveling by bike is an amazing way to see the world. If you enjoy cycling and love working with people, then guiding bike tours could be an exciting and enriching experience. 

Becoming a cycling trip leader requires a high level of physical fitness, positivity, and dependability. Tours range from single-day trips to month-long adventures and are available in stunning locations worldwide. 

As a guide, you’re responsible for guests’ safety and are on call 24/7. You should be prepared for long hours and ready to handle medical emergencies like illness or bike accidents. You’ll also need to know how to service bicycles since guests on the tours are likely to experience issues such as flat tires and broken chains along the way. 

In addition to ensuring everyone’s safety, guides are responsible for immersing guests in the local culture and customs. You’ll need to be very familiar with the area and have excellent navigation skills in case you need to make any unexpected detours due to weather conditions or guest preferences. 

Bike guides tend to be a fun, extroverted group with lots of opportunities to socialize and explore the local area when you’re not working. 

When you’re on a trip, you’ll receive free accommodation in the same hotels the guests are staying (although it’s usually in a lower quality room). Not all companies cover accommodation costs when you’re not with clients, so you’ll want to consider this when applying to these travel jobs. 

How to Get a Bicycle Trip Leader Job:

Search Google as if you’re looking to pay to attend an international bicycle tour. When you find a company you like, search for its employment page.

18. Whitewater Raft Guide

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Safely guide guests through physically challenging white water rapids. Required Experience: High

If you are passionate about adventure, love the water, and handle risk and unpredictability with grace, then whitewater raft guiding could be a good option. Raft guides depend on one another to safely make it out of the rapids each day, which fosters a type of trust and bond that can be hard to find in other jobs. In general, you can expect to work with a fun group of people who spend their free time enjoying the outdoors and drinking around a campfire.  The travel job is best for young extroverts who love working with people and are ready for long hours and physically demanding work. Positive energy is critical – guides must keep the stoke high even when their extremities are numb, and the guests are miserable. 

Becoming a raft guide takes hard work. There is a steep learning curve, with intensive training and various certifications required or recommended.

The first step is to attend a 7-10 day guide school with a rafting company, followed by another 2-6 weeks of unpaid training once hired. The training is intense and seeks to weed out those who can’t handle the physical and mental demands of whitewater raft guiding. 

Many guides also complete courses in or become certified as:

  • advanced wilderness first aid
  • wilderness first responders
  • swift water rescue certifications
  • CPR & first aid

While not all of these are required, the more certifications and experience you have, the more you can expect to earn.  NOLS is a well-known outdoor adventure certification school. On the other side of this rigorous process, there is a close-knit international community of guides with many opportunities to travel. Keep in mind that requirements may vary across borders and from state to state within the US. 

Many rafting companies offer basic housing, often in the form of guide camps near the river. Amenities are sparse, with guides living out of tents, their cars, or old RVs. Raft guiding is not a lucrative travel job – even with the free housing, it’s unlikely that you’ll come out of your first season with more than a few hundred dollars saved. 

How to Get a White Water Guide Job:

Search for white water jobs on WanderJobs and Backdoorjobs .

19. Wilderness Therapist

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Help youth overcome mental health issues with nature and counseling. Required Experience: High

Wilderness therapy combines nature and counseling to help at-risk youth cope with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD, technology addiction, and other mental health issues. 

It’s helpful to have outdoor experience and a background in social work or psychology. But if you enjoy nature and working with youth and are willing to work hard, it’s possible to overcome a lack of experience. 

Wilderness therapy is gaining popularity worldwide, but many programs remain concentrated in the US, the UK, and New Zealand and run seasonally. You’ll be with students 24-7, teaching a variety of outdoor and survival skills that can be transferred into everyday situations.

Students will need help coping with new physical and mental challenges and mentorship as they seek self-improvement. The job certainly has its difficulties, but it is also incredibly rewarding. You can have a profound impact on others’ lives and experience significant personal growth.

People who choose to work as wilderness therapists find supportive communities and build lasting friendships with their colleagues. 

The structure of wilderness therapy programs varies by company. Sometimes students spend a week in the classroom with a licensed clinician, then a week in the wilderness with a guide. Sometimes the two are combined and require guides to have more extensive clinical training.

Many programs follow a rotating schedule with one or two weeks on, and the next one or two weeks off. When you’re working, you’ll be camping in the backcountry with your group. Not all companies cover accommodation during your time off. 

How to Get a Wilderness Therapist Job:

Backdoorjobs has lots of wilderness therapy jobs to browse.

Part 2: Hospitality Travel Jobs

20. cruise ship jobs.

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Work in a customer service role or behind-the-scenes aboard a mighty international cruise liner. Required Experience: Medium

Cruise ship jobs seem to hold the allure of adventure. While they do allow you to see new places, the adventures tend to be a bit more surface-level, hedonistic, and rife with difficulties than other options. There are so many jobs available on cruise ships to match different experience levels and interests. They truly are like floating cities, and will need staff to help with cooking, cleaning, entertaining, sailing, styling hair, serving, retail, maintaining the ship, childcare, and much, much more.

The benefits of working on a cruise ship are:

  • visiting a handful of new countries in a short period of time
  • making new friends from around the world
  • saving a good amount of money you earn

But the downsides are substantial. These include:

  • an extremely long workweek and little free time
  • a social life heavily dependent on drinking at the staff cantina
  • little time off the ship
  • lack of internet/cell coverage
  • tiny, shared living quarters
  • apathetic management

It must be said that cruise liners and their guests very actively harm the “tourist towns” in which they dock and make life in these places significantly more depressing for locals.

Despite all this, some people LOVE working on a cruise ship. In fact, my friend Marissa shared an in-depth experience of her time working aboard the Disney Magic cruise ship on my Once Upon a Wander podcast .

Some people though, including a few I met who worked on Carnival ships, found cruise ship life stressful and unpleasant. Do some research and make sure it feels right to before applying to work on a cruise ship. Or just take my recommendation and stay away altogether. There are so many better options.

How to Get a Cruise Ship Job:

It’s important to research the companies you are interested in applying to. Not all cruise jobs are equal. Some are more… notorious than others. It’s probably best if introverts steer clear of cruise ship jobs, as you will get little alone time. However, the jobs themselves are so varied that you may still find something that suits you if you don’t want to interact directly with guests. The required experience level varies greatly by job, with the easiest jobs to get generally being in the housekeeping department. It can end up being many months after you’re hired before you’re actually placed on a ship. You can browse Cruise Ship Jobs here or on any major job site, including Indeed .

21. Lift Operator (Liftie)

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Safely operate ski lifts and check guest passes during the winter season. Required Experience: Low

A liftie job is the easiest entry point to working on the ski slopes. A common choice for younger people, operating the ski lifts requires a lot more standing around and a lot less responsibility than the more coveted positions of ski/snowboard instructors or ski patrol. It is expected that ski resort employees working on the mountain will receive a free season lift pass, which is one of the biggest draws. Some, but not all, mountain resorts will provide employee housing and/or meals. The culture of a ski job is not for everyone. If skiing or snowboarding every day brings you a genuine thrill, and you enjoy bonding with others over beers and drinking, it’s probably a good fit. But if hearing “gonna go shred some sick gnar” or “get that fresh pow, man” on the regular isn’t your cup of tea, maybe look elsewhere.

How to Get a Liftie Job:

Look for lift operator positions anywhere you’d find ski instructor jobs. You can start here .

22. Housekeeping

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Clean guest rooms & common areas and fold laundry. Required Experience: Low

Housekeeping is one of the easiest entry points into the travel job arena, period. Just about any company you’ll find on WanderJobs needs housekeepers. Lodges, resorts, retreat centers, ranches… they all need to be cleaned. It’s one of the largest employee departments in tourism. Because of the ease of entry, housekeepers usually make up the youngest department in seasonal travel companies. Many of them are teenagers and early 20s. The work itself is surprisingly physical and it helps to be in good shape. It’s a good choice for someone who doesn’t want to interact with the customers.

Usually you’ll be put into pairs or small teams to clean guest rooms, so you’ll be able to chat with your partner or listen to music. It’s genuinely a lot of fun.

When you’re cleaning alone it’s nice to just listen to a podcast or enjoy the peace and quiet. I consider it to be kind of relaxing and even meditative.

How to Get a Housekeeping Job:

Housekeeping is the #1 easiest travel job to be hired for. After getting your foot in the door at your preferred company, it’s easier to get a new position (or become a housekeeping supervisor) the next season.

There are many housekeeping positions on WanderJobs .

23. Wilderness Lodge Staff

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Hospitality positions in wilderness locations include everything from housekeeping to kitchen crews. Required Experience: Low

Wilderness lodges come in all sorts of locations and sizes. I’ve worked for a wilderness lodge with a staff size of 160, and another with a staff size of 4.

Both experiences offered an incredibly peaceful slice of life, where you could step outside your door and be right in nature. You’ll be able experience real quiet; nothing but the rustling leaves and soothing waves on the lake. Wilderness lodges seem to attract a good type of person, and also a wide variety. I’ve met a lot of artists, thinkers, and adventurers in these places. There are SO many types of travel jobs to chose from at a lodge that it’s likely you’ll be able to find something that suits you.

Jobs often include:

  • Housekeeping
  • Front desk & customer service
  • Activities staff
  • Office staff
  • & many more

Larger lodges may offer three hot meals per day in addition to housing. Lodges in National Parks, designated as official National Park concessioners, often have Employee Dining Rooms (EDRs) with fresh, tasty food for staff. Hanging out with friends is a wonderful experience when you’re so close to nature. Expect lots of stargazing, camp fires, porch parties and hiking. Listen to my Once Upon a Wander podcast interview with coworker Nita . She describes what working at a wilderness lodge in the Grand Teton National Park meant to her.

Read my review of life at a wilderness lodge in Minnesota .

How to Get a Wilderness Lodge Job:

For google searches, it’s helpful to search wilderness lodge + location + staff housing. For example, “wilderness lodge Alaska staff housing.” Many wilderness lodges are so far from the nearest town that they need to offer staff housing or they wouldn’t have staff. Find Wilderness Lodge Jobs on WanderJobs .

24. Front Desk/Reception

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Check in guests, make sales, answer the phone, and preform other customer service duties. Required Experience: Medium

Front desk positions are a good choice for people who want to live and work in beautiful places but who don’t necessarily consider themselves “outdoorsy” or don’t want the adventure to come from the job itself. These positions are usually a bit cushier, and as with any office job, there’s more opportunity to sit down, have a slow cup of coffee, and be in a climate-controlled environment. Each day will have a rush and a lull, but you do have to be prepared to deal with many customers wanting attention at once. The downtime tends to balance it out, though. In one of my front desk positions, I was on the night shift in a gorgeous wilderness lodge. Most guests had already hunkered down for the night by the time I clocked in, so I liked to sit in the office, stare off at the lake, or read a nice book. In another of my front desk positions, this one at a zip line, the day was much more fast-paced. I had to stand outside in the sun and check in hundreds of guests each day. Both positions required learning a somewhat confusing point-of-sale system and knowing how to answer detailed questions about the business, but there were never any huge challenges.

How to Get a Front Desk Job:

Look for any job on WanderJobs marked as resort, hotel, hostel, lodge, or retreat center. Any place that operates as a place for guests to spend the night will need front desk staff.

25. Activities Leader

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Keep guests entertained and engaged. Required Experience: Medium

This is a travel job for people who truly love meeting and engaging with new people. An activities leader should be friendly, warm, and outgoing. She should not be afraid of looking silly or acting like a goof to make others happy. Ideally, making others happy should be a driving force for her own happiness. Companies that hire activity leaders do so for many reasons. Each company will have a very different schedule of events. Some sample activities include:

  • guest picnics and bonfires
  • guided nature walks
  • art classes
  • tournaments
  • & much more

You’ll need a lot of mental stamina to be successful in this position. Public speaking skills are important.

How to Get an Activities Leader Job:

Find activities lead jobs with room and board on WanderJobs by searching for companies with at any resort, retreat, ranch, or hotel. Summer camps and year-round camps (like YMCAs) are also a great place to find Activity positions if you’re interested in working with youth.

26. Retreat Center Staff

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Work and live on a campus geared toward the peaceful spiritual growth of its guests and employees.

Working at a retreat center is an experience unlike any other I’ve had. When you consider what a person really, truly needs to be happy and fulfilled in life, you have to admit that living in a strong community with other people and being in nature are very near the top. Retreat centers give you these.

Both retreat centers where I’ve worked and lived were places for people of many different backgrounds, ages, and nationalities to come together and live a more natural way of life. Beautiful facilities in nature and fresh healthy meals fostered a calm, creative way of life.

Part of the draw of a retreat center is the location. They tend to be more remote: in the mountains, tucked in a forested valley, by a cliff on the sea. I’ve found nothing yet to match the feeling of peace and connection I’ve found at these places.

Retreat and conference centers require employees in many different areas: kitchen, housekeeping, front desk and customer service, spa, events, management, etc. It’s just like a resort, but specifically for people who want to rest and restore, or learn, or create.

Groups of guests come to learn yoga, martial arts, meditation, art, writing, communication, dance, etc. Many retreat centers allow employees to participate in many of the events on campus, so it’s usually a fun environment.

It’s easy to make friends at retreat center jobs. You’ll find lots of kind, open-minded liberals and people trying to better themselves or take a break from the rat race.

Some retreat centers (like those listed on WanderJobs) offer paid positions, but many more are work-exchange/volunteer only. Some will actually charge the volunteers a monthly fee for room and board, and while this may sound ridiculous, it can lead to some of the best experiences of your life. Still, no need to pay when you can just find a travel job that pays you.

How to Get a Retreat Center Job:

Search for retreat center jobs on WanderJobs.

You can also browse Find the Divine and Retreat Finder , but as these aren’t job sites, you have to click on individual retreat center web sites to see if they do have employment or volunteer positions available.

27. Lifeguard

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Because you’re responsible for everyone’s safety at the pool or on the beach, being a lifeguard requires constant vigilance and an ability to handle medical emergencies. 

From rescuing children who are panicking to dealing with drunk adults, you must be prepared to handle a wide range of dangerous situations in the water. You must be a physically fit and strong swimmer, have a lifeguard certification, and complete CPR and first aid training.

Lifeguards may also teach swimming or water aerobics classes and clean and maintain the swimming area. 

Expect a party culture with a lot of socializing. After work, there are often friendly competitions between lifeguards, such as swimming, paddle boarding, and boat races. 

Lifeguarding culture remains somewhat male-dominated. Women working as lifeguards often report feeling like they need to prove themselves and say men are given more responsibility and promoted faster.

You’ll also need to be able to deal with boredom. Lifeguards can’t read or look at their phones while working and need to find alternative ways to entertain themselves when the pool or beach is deserted. 

Many classic lakeside sleep-away camps recruit lifeguards to keep the swimming campers safe.

How to Get a Lifeguard Job:

Overnight summer camps are one of the best places to find lifeguarding positions with housing. You can usually earn a lifeguarding certificate at your local YMCA or swimming pool.

28. Restaurant Host

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Greet guests, take some orders, and help keep the floor running smoothly.

Restaurants worldwide are social, fast-paced environments where the atmosphere can change quickly. The culture you’ll find depends on what kind of restaurant you work in and where it’s located. 

Restaurant staff in the US tend to be on the younger side, but many countries have hosts, waiters, and chefs of differing ages. Some restaurants have strict rules and dress codes, while others are more casual and allow for greater self-expression.

It’s possible to get a travel job as a restaurant host with minimal experience, but positions with the best perks (and housing) will be awarded to those with previous training in hospitality. You also may benefit from speaking a foreign language or two.

Restaurant hosts are responsible for a guest’s first impression and must have excellent customer service skills. In addition to showing guests to their table, answering the phone, and taking reservations, you help clear tables and assist the waiters as needed. 

The restaurant industry certainly isn’t for everyone. Before taking a position as a host, you should prepare for long and unusual hours with many spent standing up. You’ll need to maintain composure in an ever-changing, high-stress environment. If that sounds exciting, working as a restaurant host could be a fun and worthwhile experience. 

How to Get a Restaurant Host Job:

Search WanderJobs for lodges, hotel jobs, restaurants, and resorts. Most places with overnight accommodations for guests have a restaurant.

29. Spa Attendant

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Help youth overcome mental health issues with nature and counseling.

Spa attendants are responsible for fostering an environment that helps others relax. Working alongside massage therapists and aestheticians, attendants support clients in seeking out self-care and making healthy changes in their lives. 

There are no specific requirements to become a spa attendant. Still, it works in your favor if you have prior customer service experience, have worked in the hospitality or wellness industry, or have cosmetology certifications. As long as you are organized and professional and have excellent interpersonal skills, it’s possible to get a travel job as a spa attendant. 

If hired, your duties will include assisting customers, selling treatment packages, cleaning the facilities, and helping aestheticians and therapists prepare for clients. You’ll also be responsible for administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and managing inventory. 

Spas and wellness centers worldwide tend to have a team-oriented environment that attracts young, health-conscious employees. Working in this type of setting can be incredibly calming and enjoyable. 

Like all jobs, working in a spa is stressful at times. Customer service roles are known for being mentally and emotionally draining, and you’ll need to spend many hours a day on your feet. Depending on the spa’s operating hours, you may have long shifts and be required to work nights, holidays, and weekends. 

You’re most likely to find housing included at spas in large or remote resorts and on cruise ships. If you work at a spa in one of these settings, you can expect to meet interesting people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world. Resorts often have perks like free access to facilities and fun events. Through these activities and those you discover on your own in your free time, you’ll get to know other employees within the wellness center and throughout the entire resort or ship. 

How to Get a Spa Attendant Job:

After searching for resort, hotel, and lodge jobs with housing, find out which of those have spas. Or try a keyword search on WanderJobs for “spa”.

30. YMCA Camp Counselor/Leader

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YMCA camps offer a range of counselor and leadership jobs with different requirements. You can find anything from junior counselor positions geared towards high schoolers to activity specialist roles intended for those with professional teaching experience. 

Depending on your skill set, there may be an opportunity to specialize in areas like sports, swimming, or arts and crafts. 

Working at a YMCA camp tends to be a seasonal job. While some camps offer year-round programs, most operate primarily in the summer when kids are out of school. 

A majority of YMCA camps are located in the US and Canada, so if you’re looking for a travel job overseas, this may not be the right fit. Even without traveling abroad, you’ll have the opportunity to meet people from around the world, since YMCA camps attract a diverse bunch of international campers and counselors. Camp communities offer fantastic opportunities to make lasting friendships, but they can be a bit cliquey. 

To get a job as a YMCA camp counselor, you must have excellent leadership and enjoy working with children. If hired, you’ll likely need to undergo additional training focusing on communication skills, conflict resolution, leadership, child safety, first aid, and CPR. 

Working for a summer or two as a YMCA counselor can be a very enriching experience. However, you must remain positive, energetic, and bubbly even when you’re covered in mosquito bites and haven’t had dry socks in two weeks. As a result, camp counselors often report feeling drained by the end of the summer. 

Typically staff members spend the summer living in cabins with the campers. Different camps have varying levels of sophistication in their accommodations for counselors. Depending on your level of comfort with camping, you’ll want to consider a particular camp’s facilities before applying.  

How to Get a YMCA Leader Job:

Search major job boards (like Indeed) for “YMCA camp residential”.

31. Hostel Jobs

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Preform various guest service duties in a highly social traveler environment.

Hostels are abundant worldwide and are among the classic places people turn when looking for a travel job that includes housing. There is a lot of flexibility depending on your desired environment. You can find hostels in urban centers, around national parks, and next to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

With opportunities to work at reception, as a housekeeper, in the kitchen, and more, it’s easy to find work in this sector. 

Working at a hostel rarely requires any specific prior experience and is a great way to gain some additional skills, such as bartending, event planning, or waiting tables. One thing you do need is a love of meeting new people. 

Hostels are very social spaces with little privacy, so if you’re an introvert looking for peace and quiet, a hostel job is probably not for you. The culture is perfect for extroverts who thrive in new situations, as the vibe of a hostel is constantly changing with the fluctuation of guests and employees. If you take a travel job at a hostel, you’ll join an eclectic group of people who were attracted by the opportunity to live abroad for free. 

In addition to interesting coworkers, you’ll also get to know guests from far corners of the globe. At any given hostel, you’re likely to find a diverse collection of individuals, including artists, digital nomads, backpackers, and other free spirits. In general, the crowd tends to be young and will be up for partying any day of the week. 

Since hostel employees live and work in the same space, work-life and downtime can be hard to separate. Many hostels operate on a work exchange basis, but some will pay you a small wage in addition to providing free or reduced-price housing. Regardless of which option you end up with, you’ll probably share a room with at least one other staff member. 

How to Get a Hostel Job:

Search the major job boards. Not all hostel jobs come with housing- especially those in cities- but if not, it’s worth it to contact the manager to see if they would be able to work something out with you.

Many hostel workers do unpaid work-exchanges. There are many of these types of experiences on Workaway.info .

32. Retail & Gift Shop Staff

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Stock and sell trinkets and snacks to tourists.

Retail jobs are your standard shop experience. You’ll spend much of your time standing in one spot (behind the register) and checking people out.

There are lulls and rushes, but the work isn’t known to be exciting. It’s extremely repetitive.

On the bright side, you’ll probably get to know a small number of coworkers well, and there can be some good people watching.

How to Get a Retail/Gift Shop Job:

Many national park concessioners (#34 travel job on this list) hire retail staff specifically for their shops. At other companies, retail is often a job integrated with positions like front desk and check-in.

33. Marina Attendant

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Help customers with boats, pump gas, do basic maintenance checks.

This is one of the many travel jobs on the list that I’ve done personally- that’s me in the picture! Marina work is a cool gig. One of the best things about working at a marina is the view. Few workplaces are more beautiful than the shores around a lake or ocean, and it’s exciting to be able to watch storms rolling in from the distance.

The position requires being on your feet most of the time and interacting with many people on a daily basis. Marinas can get very busy, and when they do, it can feel a bit stressful. People who rent boats at marinas or own boats generally have a good amount of money, and sometimes the sorts of attitudes can come with that. You’ll have to be able to field customer questions while making sure you do everything in a very safe way. Some marinas are more relaxed than others. Personally I would recommend finding one that only serves as a place for people to keep their own private boats rather then renting out boats to customers. There’s a good amount of time to chat with your coworkers and appreciate the view. If your marina does rent out boats, it will be your job to teach the customers to use them. For people with their own boats, you’ll be expected to ferry them out to their buoys. There’s no question that driving boats around all day is a lot of fun. The customer rushes are mitigated by periods of downtime, especially in the early mornings, when you’ll have the whole beautiful, quiet lake to yourself as the sun comes up. I used to love playing music on my phone and drinking coffee in the marina office at twilight, looking out at the mountains and lake. At this point you’ll have to prepare for the day, maybe do some paperwork, and check on the boats and dock.

Whatever your skill level is with boats (mine was near zero when I was hired), it isn’t that challenging to learn to drive them well enough to dock them and tow them safely and skillfully.

How to Get a Marina Job:

Search WanderJobs for marina positions , or browse TripAdvisor for wilderness lodges on your lake of choice.

34. National Park Concessioner Staff

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Perform customer service & hospitality duties while living with other travelers in a national park.

Many private companies help provide additional services to visitors within each national park, including lodging, tours, and retail. In the US, National Park Service concessioners employ more than 25,000 people during peak seasons at places like restaurants, hotels, concession stands, and gift shops. 

Because concessioners are hired by private companies rather than the federal government, many say the hiring process is more straightforward and flexible than getting a job as a park ranger. Since many rangers start out working concessions, this is a great way to get your foot in the door and open up additional opportunities with the National Park Service. 

While the concessioner jobs are often indoors, you’ll get to spend the season living in one of the nation’s most beautiful places. Many employees at national parks are outdoor-minded folks who love adventure. You’ll be able to spend your days off exploring the park and surrounding area with coworkers and will likely have the chance to try some fun outdoor activities like rafting, rock climbing, or snorkeling. 

Not all concessioner staff positions include housing, but it’s not uncommon to receive subsidized room and board. Don’t expect anything luxurious – most park employees live in basic dormitory-style lodging or RVs. But it’s a wonderful way to live in a community of people with similar interests, and employees in these places often feel like families.

How to Get a National Park Concessioner Job:

The two major National Park concessioners are Xanterra and Delware North, and searching the sites of those two companies will provide most of the travel job opportunities. However …

Those are huge companies and are infamous, like Vail Resorts, for treating their employees like numbers and not like people. In traveler circles, it’s called Xanterrible.

It’s harder to find the smaller companies because most websites are in disguise, and it’s not till you reach the employment page that you’re redirected to the automated Xanterra or DN database. But smaller companies exist!

The official National Park list of Authorized Concessioners can be found on their website .

35. Overnight Summer Camp Counselor

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Lead groups of kids through traditional summer camp activities.

Working as an overnight camp counselor is a great summer travel job for young extroverts who love working with kids. You can choose from a wide selection of camps throughout the US and Canada, as well as some international ones. 

Options range from classic YMCA-style summer camps to specialty programs focusing on music, theater, or sports. General overnight camps expect employees to enjoy working with youth and have a positive attitude, while specialty camps require additional expertise in that particular field. 

Each camp has a different vibe and traditions, so you’ll want to do some research and select one that is a good fit. No matter which location you choose, you’ll find a unique environment with countless learning experiences. Camp culture fosters life-long friendships among both campers and counselors. Kids carry summer camp memories well into adulthood, so it can be very fulfilling to be a part of campers’ life-changing experiences. 

Although working as a camp counselor is fun and rewarding, it doesn’t come without challenges. The job rarely includes any alone time, which can be tough even for the most extroverted individuals. Counselors stay in the same cabins as campers, and supervising a group of children 24 hours a day is exhausting by the end of the summer. 

How to Get a Camp Counselor Job:

There are many sites dedicated to camp listings, including Camp Resource and Camp Channel . But since there are so many hundreds of camps not listed on these sites, it’s easier just to pick the area you want to go and do a google search for overnight camps in that location.

travel and tours work

Drive guests, haul gear, act as a tour guide.

There are possibilities to work as a tour group driver on trips ranging from classic sightseeing tours to multisport adventures worldwide. Some tour companies employ drivers for the entire season, while others hire them as external contractors for a week or two at a time. 

To get one of these jobs, you’ll need a valid commercial driver’s license in the countries visited, excellent customer service skills, and a proven commitment to passenger safety. The vehicle’s size may vary from group to group, but you should be comfortable maneuvering large vehicles with a trailer full of equipment in tow. 

While most of the job is spent sitting, you will also get some exercise through the frequent loading and unloading of luggage and gear, such as bikes and kayaks. The position includes a lot of downtime when the guests are out sightseeing or staying in the same spot for a few days. You’ll therefore have the chance to explore many different places along the route. However, if you’re hired as an external contractor, the job could be a bit lonely. 

In addition to wages, drivers typically receive free lodging in a hotel for the tour duration. Sometimes they’ll stay in the same location as guests, while others they’ll be placed in a different hotel nearby. 

How to Get a Driver Job:

Whitewater rafting and other gear-based outdoor companies sometimes have dedicated drivers to haul the gear from one place to another, and to meet the guests once they go down river.

For coach-bus tour driver jobs, the best way to find a company is to search google as if you’re trying to pay to join a tour as a guest. “Coach bus tours national parks” or “europe coach bus tours” would be good searches, for example.

Contiki is an example of a coach bus tour company in Europe, though they only hire people with European passports.

37. Hotel & Resort Jobs

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Work in guest services, desk jobs, or support positions at hotels & resorts.

Hotels and resorts offer tons of different employment opportunities all over the globe. There are openings for bartenders, chefs, waiters, restaurant hosts, housekeepers, concierges, event coordinators, entertainers, fitness instructors, massage therapists, lifeguards, and more. 

In addition to living in a desirable destination, you’ll receive perks like free or discounted access to the resort’s facilities. One of the other benefits is meeting interesting guests and working with people from around the world. Since many hotel and resort employees are far from “home,” coworkers can become like family.  

Most upscale hotels and resorts include housing for employees, especially those located in remote areas. The accommodation itself is rarely luxurious – no matter how fancy the resort, you’ll probably live in shared housing with 4-5 other people. 

Working at a hotel or resort offers flexible hours; however, shifts can be long with few breaks and little downtime, and the pay is not always sufficient for the hours required. Like other hospitality industry jobs, employees at hotels and resorts regularly report feeling drained by the end of the tourist season. 

But for many, the ability to wake up with a swim at a world-renowned beach or hit the slopes after your shift at a famous ski resort makes the long hours worth it. 

How to Get a Hotel/Resort Job:

WanderJobs lists lodge & resort jobs and hostel & inn jobs . If you’re searching in google, choose more remote or even island destinations, as they are more likely to offer staff housing.

38. Workamping Campground Host

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Register campers, keep campgrounds safe and clean.

Workamping is an option for couples or individuals who love to camp and are looking for ways to do so cheaply. It’s a position often filled by seniors and people.

You’ll need your own RV to live in.

Campground host positions are available at privately owned parks as well as state and national parks in the US and Canada. While uncommon, it is possible to find workamping openings in other parts of the world, especially in Europe, Central America, and the Caribbean. 

Working as a host involves various duties around the campground, such as cleaning, maintenance, landscaping, registering campers, answering visitors’ questions, reporting any rule violations to management, and working in the campground shop. In exchange for your work, you’ll receive a free RV campsite complete with water and electricity hookups. 

Hosting contracts usually extend for 3-6 months. The requirements, hours, and expected time commitment will depend on the campground. Regardless of your schedule, you should plan to work throughout the peak season and on weekends and holidays. 

Workamping has numerous benefits, including spending time in beautiful natural areas for free and meeting folks who also love the outdoors. But there are downsides as well. You’ll likely have to deal with unruly campers and take care of less desirable tasks like picking up trash.  

It’s also my belief- from research, and from talking to people when I attended the Rubber Tramp Rendezvous in 2020 as a speaker- that workamping can get pretty exploitive. It seems that many employers treat their employees badly, overwork them, underpay them, and do not honor contracts in ways that seem illegal. I’m not sure why this particular travel job was so popular with the retired population, but it was. I personally would avoid it at all costs.

Many, but not all, workamping jobs include a salary. Volunteer positions typically require about 20 hours of work a week, while those that come with additional wages involve around 40 hours a week. So they say; in practice, overworking seems to be common.

How to Get a Campground Host Job:

Most Workampers I spoke to at RTR found their jobs through Workamper News .

Part 3: Career Travel Jobs

39. english teacher abroad.

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Teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) to students at a high school abroad. Required Experience: Medium

A native English speaker with a good command of the language can become an English teacher abroad far more easily than becoming a teacher within the US. The certification process for a TEFL certificate is relatively quick, cheap, and easy. I myself earned the 100-hour online certificate and a 50-hour younger learner certificate in about half the suggested time.

That said, for some reason actually finding a travel job as an English teacher (as of 2020) requires sifting through an absolutely baffling quagmire of scams and misinformation. Does this school want to hire me or is this a company trying to sell me a course? Why won’t the man who I just paid to get my results after taking my certification test respond to any of my emails? Why do I have to go to the country and look for a job after I get there? Theses questions and more plagued me and my ex, and I’m sure many others. Eventually, after moving to Japan to get a travel job teaching English, failing to do so, moving back to the US, and getting scammed, my ex managed to find a job teaching in a good school in Japan and is going on his second year-long contract. I’ve known many people who have taught English abroad (I volunteered with some permanent teachers in Thailand), but as far as “how to get a job teaching english abroad” goes, you’re rather on your own.

How to Get a TEFL Job:

First, become TEFL certified. Most companies require a minimum 120-hour certification and a bachelors degree, though there are companies that do not require a degree.

There are many companies that offer certification, with a median price of about $300 for 120 hours. The cheapest I’ve found is Global TEFL , which was $90/120 hours at the time I wrote this article. Then, do tons and tons of research to find current job openings for English teachers. You may find jobs in China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, and other locations.

There are also TONS of online opportunities if you’re looking to continue to travel while you teach. Here’s a quick guide by Goats on the Road.

40. Maintenance 

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Repair, build, and haul things as needed. Required Experience: Medium

Most any company, especially those that include guest lodging, requires skilled maintenance staff. In the on season, you’ll be doing general repairs and will often have access to a truck or golf cart, and a workshop or shed. You may find yourself painting, chopping wood, and responding to guests’ request for lightbulb changes in addition to more skilled labor. The maintenance team tends to be one of the smaller operations of a seasonal company and the teams are given more power and freedom to make their own decisions and schedules. It’s often a good gig for introverted types. Sometimes in the off-season, a more remote wilderness lodge will shut down but will still require a skeleton crew consisting of a maintenance worker or two. It’s an unusual way to experience a quiet winter of solitude.

How to Get a Maintenance Job:

Even when maintenance is not listed as an open position on the employment section of a company’s website, it may be worth it to email the company and ask them if they could use some more help.

Maintenance is one of the travel job categories in which it pays to become an expert in your field. An experienced, highly skilled maintenance worker will always be valuable. Find live-in maintenance travel jobs at any resort, retreat, ranch, or hotel listed on WanderJobs.

41. Chefs & Cooks

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Prepare and cook meals for guests and staff.

Every kitchen requires a team of cooks of different experience levels and with different amounts of responsibility in order to run properly. A chef at a seasonal company (I’ve worked with many) absolutely doesn’t require a culinary degree, but does require a high level of confidence and skill.

However, head chefs and sous chefs often handle a stressful level of responsibility. Even if your skill is high, you may prefer to be a line cook or even a prep cook (my favorite), where it’s easier to zone out into your task or chat with the other cooks through the workday.

The jobs, from least to most responsibility are:

  • Prep Cook (chopping, grating, juicing, repetitive tasks)
  • Line Cook (cooking a few specific things, preparing salads)
  • Sous Chef (cooking, menu prep, covering in the chef’s absence)
  • Chef (ordering ingredients, cooking, menu prep, managing the kitchen)

There are two massively different types of kitchens: made to order, and buffets.

Made-to-order kitchens (which are by far the most common) are almost always more fast paced. This brings an extra level of stress, and sometimes the notoriously angry and narcissistic head chef who thinks he’s god’s gift to man. (I met one of these types at a restaurant in a seasonal travel job I left very quickly). Most places with seasonal jobs will only have this type of kitchen.

Buffet-style kitchens are usually found in two environments: retreat centers and staff dining rooms. Retreat centers usually have constantly changing menus of fresh, healthy, delicious foods.

Staff dining rooms (known as Employee Dining Rooms or EDRs at national park concessioners) vary by location. The food is generally good but not great, and it feels nice to help feed your coworkers.

Working in mess hall or a retreat center environment is much lower-pressure, and in my opinion, much more enjoyable than cooking in a ritzy made-to-order restaurant.

How to Get a Cook Job:

Most any resort, lodge, hotel, retreat center, summer camp, or hostel on WanderJobs will require cooks.

While it isn’t especially hard to start off as a prep cook, there are plenty of places to volunteer as a cook to get more experience before applying for a job. Retreat centers often need volunteer cooks, as do many families on the Workaway site.

42. Antarctica Research Station Staff

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Help keep the remote research station running to support scientific discovery.

Getting a travel job in Antarctica is very competitive and requires a particular skill set. Apart from the scientists, research stations have various support staff such as:

  • electricians
  • firefighters
  • boat handlers
  • and more… 

Many employment contracts are limited to the summer (around November to February). Others extend through the winter (around March to October). There is a high cost associated with transporting staff to and from the bases, so preference is given to those willing to commit to longer contracts. Even in the summer, be prepared to cope with extreme and unpredictable weather. 

The culture differs from one research station to the next. Most communities have a small-town feel to them. There are movie theaters, bars, and coffee shops that host various events, such as pub quizzes, open mic nights, and karaoke. 

While each research station is stocked with medical supplies and has at least one on-site physician, advanced medical care for life-threatening conditions is often days away. Before heading to Antarctica, research station staff must pass a comprehensive medical exam, including blood tests, chest x-rays, and an EKG. Those hoping to stay throughout the winter must undergo additional medical and psychological tests to ensure they are fit to withstand the physical and mental challenges associated with isolation, frigid temperatures, and 24 hours of darkness for months on end. 

If alone time and privacy are important to you, this travel job is probably not the right fit. Despite being isolated, research station employees rarely get any time to themselves. The stations vary in size, but on average, you can expect around 40-50 staff during the summer and 10-20 in the winter. 

Accommodation, while free, is rustic and crowded – most workers reside in cramped tents or bunks on a ship, and getting off the base for some privacy is not an option. Except for those employed in transportation, support staff seldom travel away from their research stations. 

Before applying for a this travel job, I highly recommend reading the book South Pole Station by Ashley Shelby. Though fictional, it gives an incredibly realistic view into seasonal life in Antarctica.

How to Get an Antarctica Job:

The best place to start looking for a job is with your country’s Antarctica Program . There are around 70 different research stations run by programs from about 30 countries.

43. National Park Ranger (entry level seasonal)

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Help educate guests and keep the park safe and clean.

One of the perks of working as a national park ranger is spending time in some of the world’s most stunning natural areas. This travel job is best for those who love nature, are passionate about conservation, and enjoy working with others. You must be willing to work outdoors in any kind of conditions, including extreme temperatures and stormy weather. 

Since park rangers are employees of the federal government, they tend to work a maximum of 40 hours a week. However, rangers must be prepared to work holidays and weekends when parks experience an influx of visitors. 

The culture among national park rangers depends on the geographic location of that particular park. In remote areas, there is a significant overlap in work life and social life, while parks located near towns or cities offer a better work-life balance and more non-park-related activities. Park communities typically resemble isolated small towns where everyone knows each other. 

The path to becoming a park ranger is a competitive one, with many people finding their way in the door through volunteer positions or internships. You’re more likely to be hired if you have a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, natural resources, geology, forestry, history, law enforcement, or a similar field. 

In most parks, seasonal workers are hired only for the summer. These contracts last from 4-6 months and do not include benefits afforded to permanent employees, such as health insurance and retirement contributions. 

Entry-level rangers typically start out collecting fees from visitors at park entrances or maintaining hiking trails. Over time, it’s possible to work your way up to a more desirable position, such as leading tours, researching wildlife, or working in the backcountry. 

Some parks provide free housing, while others deduct rent from your paycheck based on the cost of living in the surrounding area. Accommodation in the parks varies significantly and can range from newer apartments to run-down trailers. Seasonal employees are provided fully furnished rooms and can expect to have at least one roommate or housemate. 

How to Get a National Park Ranger Job:

Find park jobs with the National Park Service or the US Forest Service . If it seems like those official sites don’t have many listings, there may be more posted on a major job board like indeed.

44. Massage Therapist

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Relax and help heal clients through bodywork.

Massage therapy is a job that requires a lot of endurance. It isn’t easy to use your muscles in that way for long periods of time.

Part of the fun is that there are so many different types of massage to choose from. When you take the first step to become certified, spend time to figure out what type of massage is most interesting to you and works best with your own body.

You need to be very good at first impressions and making someone feel comfortable as soon as they meet you. You need to look tidy and clean.

Massage therapy is an incredibly personal job. You’ll usually be in a room alone with another person for an hour or more, and in many forms of massage, the other person won’t be wearing clothes. Some clients won’t talk at all, and others will reveal all their traumas. You’re genuinely a therapist and should treat the role and the client with respect. When you have repeat customers, you’ll come to care about them and their well being.

A massage therapist will walk a way with a lot of money, and that is usually one of the biggest draws. It’s one of the few certifications left that doesn’t require a college degree but that can still provide a great payoff. Most clients will tip you as well.

How to Get a Massage Therapist Job:

First, of course, you’ll need to become a licensed massage therapist. The requirements for this vary by state so it can be a little tricky and will require some research and planning.

Massage travel jobs with housing are harder to find than most other travel jobs on this list. Most massage therapists are local, but companies with housing are sometimes hiring.

A roundabout technique to find massage travel jobs with housing is to look for spa jobs with housing (at resorts, lodges, retreat centers, etc), and then apply for any other job at the place. Once you are there and management knows you, it can be easier to suggest offering your services to the spa on the side. (This is how the massage therapist in the photo got much of his work at a retreat center).

Another workaround that many massage therapists I know personally have used is to do off-the-books massages for the staff while they work a different day job. When they are licensed in one state but not another (bureaucratic insurance nonsense!) it’s easier to just have friends pay you in cash. My friends have earned an impressive amount of extra income this way.

45. Accountant

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Keep the books.

Nearly every organization requires some accounting work. Many companies hire full-time, in-house accountants, while others outsource the work to freelancers, consultancies, or accounting firms. 

The job requires excellent attention to detail and superior analytical, math, and computer skills. As an accountant, you’ll take care of various finance-related tasks, such as recording transactions, advising on financial decisions, and ensuring compliance with local laws. Those entering the field should expect some stressful situations and prepare to work overtime during tax season. 

The universal business need for bookkeeping services allows accountants a lot of flexibility in choosing where they want to work. Accountant positions are most likely to include housing at places mentioned in this post, including retreat centers, hotels and resorts, and national parks.

Minimum requirements to become an accountant in the US vary by state. If you want to do accounting or bookkeeping work abroad, you may need to obtain additional certifications and become familiar with the local tax laws and financial policies. 

This kind of work can be tedious and repetitive, but also very fulfilling for the right person. Accountants can contribute immense value to businesses and play a crucial role in an organization’s success. If you are financially savvy and like working with numbers, you will likely find the work rewarding. 

How to Get an Accountant Job:

These jobs aren’t always listed, so you may have to go through the companies on sites like WanderJobs one by one and contact them to ask if they are looking for an accountant.

These travel jobs are harder to get and there may be a lot of internal promotion, so a better bet might be to work your way up in a company after you prove yourself in a different position.

46. Lighthouse Keeper

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Maintain the light and the property.

Lighthouse keepers historically played a crucial role in helping ships navigate safely to shore, but their place in modern society has dwindled. Today, lighthouses in many parts of the world are fully automated.

Those that still have keepers are usually managed by national parks or non-profits seeking to preserve these historic structures and their associated traditions. 

Current lighthouse keeper jobs are perfect for history buffs who love the sea or for those seeking solitude and an uncommon career opportunity. While available positions are scarce, they are possible to find in coastal areas worldwide. 

Keepers are responsible for tasks like cleaning and maintaining the lighthouse grounds, managing the gift shop, and providing information to visitors. Since many lighthouses are historical landmarks, they are popular field trip destinations for schoolchildren and unique venues for small weddings, reunions, or birthday parties. Prospective keepers should expect to assist with these types of events when necessary. 

Some lighthouses offer keepers free RV camping sites, a sleeping area inside the lighthouse, or private cottages on the grounds. Most lighthouse attendant roles are for volunteers only, but some do pay. One historic lighthouse in San Francisco, for example, offered a couple $130,000 a year, provided they continued running it as a bed and breakfast. 

I recommend the memoir Light Years by Caroline Woodward as a beautiful way to learn what it really means to live as a lighthouse keeper.

How to Get a Lightkeeper Job:

There very few manned lighthouses left; most are automated. Finding a job will take a lot of research into the light stations of various countries. Google search is the way to go.

From a modern day lighthouse keeper (in British Columbia) on Reddit : “the application is super hard to find actually so it does not get a lot of applicants. Also the process is insane as it is a government job. My application took over 4 months…”

47. Farmer/ Gardener

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Plant, harvest, weed, build structures, and care for plants.

There are a variety of farming and gardening travel jobs available around the world at places like organic farms and retreat and conference centers. These settings usually offer a fun environment with young coworkers and an ability to connect with nature. 

Many eco-retreat centers have gardens that provide the ingredients for healthy meals. By working as a gardener, you’ll contribute to the center’s ability to provide sustainable, locally sourced food and experience the feeling of accomplishment that comes with eating food you grew yourself. 

Any farming or gardening role requires manual labor outdoors, so you should be ready to work hard and spend your days tending to the fields, orchards, or gardens. You’ll learn how to grow different fruits and vegetables and enjoy the perk of freshly picked, in-season produce. It’s an incredibly satisfying travel job, working with your hands and tending to the land. You’ll be tired and fulfilled at the end of a day.

Many of these positions are available for volunteers only, but finding a paid farming or gardening job is possible. The housing included tends to be dormitory-style and will likely involve one or more roommates. If you’re lucky, you may get a cabin or bungalow to yourself. To get a better paid position you may have to stick with one company long enough to take over when manager leaves.

How to Get a Farm/Garden Job:

Find farm and garden travel jobs on BackdoorJobs , or as unpaid positions through WWOOF . Also read #15 on this list to learn about fruit picking in Australia.

48. Human Resources

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Hire staff, coordinate housing, activities and payroll, and deal with staff issues.

From mountain lodges to adventure tour operators, nearly every type of workplace on this list requires Human Resources staff. As a result, there are plenty of HR opportunities at interesting locales around the world. 

The type and quality of housing included with HR travel jobs (if any) and your responsibilities will depend on your workplace. Smaller businesses most often employ HR generalists who do a little bit of everything. Larger companies, on the other hand, may require employees to specialize in particular areas, such as onboarding and training, payroll and benefits, or employee relations. 

HR positions are focused on helping others and create many opportunities to build lasting relationships with coworkers. Since HR workers organize staff events and activities and oversee recruitment and hiring processes, they have a lot of power to shape the company culture. This ability to foster a positive work environment is one of the things many HR employees say they like most about their jobs.

Working in HR is a fun and fulfilling job, but it involves juggling many different responsibilities at once and can be stressful. If you want to work in HR, you’ll need excellent conflict resolution and problem-solving skills, as well as lots of patience. HR people continually have to address things that aren’t running smoothly within the company and may have to resolve disputes that arise between coworkers.

How to Get an Human Resources Job:

HR is a career-ladder decision, so you’ll need to prove experience before moving into the role. Often you’ll eyeball the role from inside a company before applying internally for the position when it eventually opens up.

Search one of the major job boards and get very specific with your keywords. Obviously include “human resources”, but also cycle through the types of places that would have housing included, like wilderness lodges and wilderness resorts, tour companies, cruises, and national park concessioners.

49. Managers & Supervisors 

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Lead a department, create schedules, coordinate inventory, communicate with other departments.

Many of the travel jobs on this list have at least one related managerial or supervisor role. From managing a restaurant or housekeeping staff in a resort to supervising a group of rangers in a national park, there are numerous manager and supervisor positions available worldwide that include free housing. 

Becoming a manager requires extensive experience in your chosen industry and a proven track record of success. You’ll also need superior communication, excellent interpersonal skills, sound leadership, and an ability to resolve conflict effectively. Depending on your workplace, you may also need good customer service skills and patience for dealing with disgruntled clients who are always asking to speak with the manager. 

While you’ll still have the chance to meet and work with interesting people, it’s hard to become friends with coworkers when you’re the boss. Being a manager holds significant responsibility and can be more stressful than other travel jobs. You’ll need to make difficult decisions that are in the organization’s best interest even if they are unpopular among employees. 

The job also has its advantages – managers and supervisors often receive nicer accommodation than regular staff and are more likely to get private rooms or entire apartments. As a result, these roles are better than others for people with families or partners traveling or working alongside them. 

How to Get a Manager/Supervisor Job:

Becoming a supervisor or manager can range from extremely easy (such as moving up from a housekeeper to a housekeeping supervisor position within a single season) to very difficult (becoming a kitchen manager at bustling tropical resort).

Basically, if you want a supervisor job, stick with any company for a little bit longer than the other seasonal staff and you can pretty easily get one.

Many companies on WanderJobs will advertise manager and supervisor positions, but it’s also worth finding companies you like and emailing directly to ask if they have open positions. Some are only posted internally to current staff, but if you’re qualified, go for it.

50. Youth Educator

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Teach youth about the outdoors, ecology, and natural sciences.

If you’re passionate about the outdoors, teaching others about the natural world can be a gratifying travel job. Outdoor education centers across the US and Canada hire educators to teach youth about wilderness survival, ecology, conservation, geology, and more. Educators may also be involved in activities like local conservation efforts or trail maintenance. 

Each center will have different requirements for employment. Generally, it’s preferable if you have a bachelor’s degree, a background in environmental science or a related field, knowledge of the outdoors, and some experience with teaching. Because outdoor education centers are popular field trip destinations for schoolchildren, you must enjoy working with kids. Some youth educator travel jobs are open to applicants of all ages, while others give priority to recent college graduates. 

Outdoor education centers typically attract adventurous, eco-conscious individuals. If that sounds like you, then you can expect to work with a fun group of like-minded people. Educators often get the weekends off, allowing them to explore local trails or relax in nature with coworkers. 

Many of these travel jobs are full-time, residential positions and include dormitory-style housing onsite. Contracts are mostly seasonal, but it is possible to find year-round roles, especially in warmer climates. 

How to Get a Youth Educator Job:

There are some youth education positions on WanderJobs , and more on BackdoorJobs .

51. Travel Nurse

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Work in clinical settings in smaller towns around the US.

Travel nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who fill vacancies at various US healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals. Becoming a travel nurse offers a unique opportunity to work in any US state or even the Virgin Islands while also fulfilling an essential need in the healthcare industry.

Typically, travel nurses work for independent staffing agencies that assign them to open positions for a short-term contract. You’ll be able to tell the agency what kind of environment you’re looking for, and they will find you an assignment that matches your skills and preferences.

Contracts usually last around 13 weeks but can be longer or shorter depending on the facility. RNs who are enjoying their existing assignments may be able to renew the contract and stay longer in that role. 

Responsibilities of a travel nursing job are essentially the same as a typical RN position. To become a travel nurse, you’ll need a nursing degree from either a two or four-year university, successful completion of the NCLEX-RN exam, and at least one year of experience working as a nurse. 

Getting a job as a travel nurse offers many perks, including free housing, competitive compensation, and the ability to work in diverse clinical settings. Traveling positions tend to pay entry-level nurses a higher salary than permanent roles, making these jobs particularly appealing for younger people.

How to Get a Travel Nurse Job:

In the Covid age, there is now more than ever a need for travel nurses. There are many good job placement companies that will come up in a simple google search, like Nomad .

Of course, you’ll already need to be a registered nurse. This is a genuine career choice with high pay, long hours, and benefits.

Part 4: Travel Jobs for Digital Nomads

52. online freelancer.

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Seek out clients and meet their needs remotely through individual contract jobs.

Online freelance opportunities are abundant for a wide range of professionals with varying levels of expertise. Some of the jobs are short-term projects, like designing a logo or writing a blog post, while others become long-term partnerships. 

Freelancers are much in need in the areas of:

  • graphic design
  • content writing
  • ui/ux design
  • virtual assistance
  • translation

Working as an online freelancer requires a great deal of independence, self-motivation, and organization. If you like working with others and are looking for a fun group of coworkers, then freelancing is probably not the best fit. 

Many freelancers find that the benefits outweigh the lack of social life at work. Online freelancing has many advantages, including flexible hours, location independence, and control over your own schedule.

Jobs are available at every level – whether you’re a beginner in your field or an expert, you’re sure to find something that interests you. However, competition for freelance jobs is intense .

With more and more people ditching their nine-to-fives in favor of a flexible and nomadic lifestyle, the pool of freelancers looking for online work continues to grow. This competition can be especially frustrating for new freelancers trying to break into the industry.

Because of the location freedom that freelance work offers, it’s possible to find very affordable housing if you’re flexible about where you live. It’s a solid career option for digital nomads.

How to Get a Freelance Job:

The easiest way for most people to begin freelancing is to start with Upwork , where you can bid on the thousands of jobs posted. In order to get your first job (and therefore your first positive review), you’ll need to underbid everybody else and write a personalized cover letter. Even then, you’ll get a lot of rejections. If you have a friend on the site, it’s easier to get them to hire you for a quick gig and review.

Once you start gaining reviews, you can charge more money and get repeat clients. When those clients trust you (which they should if you consistently do a good job) you can start talking and getting paid outside of Upwork so they don’t take a cut of the profit.

Freelancing is essentially creating a small business for yourself. Ultimately the best thing to do is tell everybody you know what your skill is and that you are looking for clients, and build yourself up through word of mouth within your actual, real-life circle of friends, family, and community.

53. Teach English Online

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Teach English as a second language to children or adults in other countries.

Teaching English online is a popular job among young travelers. As long as you have a reliable internet connection, you can essentially work from anywhere. 

There are loads of companies hiring online English teachers, each of which has its own requirements, preferred teaching style, and expected time commitment. Some companies are looking for previous teaching experience, while others only require employees to be native English speakers. 

Like most online jobs, teaching English remotely is best for self-starters who prefer working independently. To get a teaching job, you’ll probably need a certification such as Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Both of these are relatively easy and inexpensive to obtain online. 

Most beginners start with part-time teaching jobs until they gain enough experience to compete for a full-time role. Many teachers say the job is best as a supplement to other work, so it could be combined with another job on this list that does include lodging. 

One of the most interesting aspects of this job is talking with people from diverse places and learning about other cultures. However, if you and your students live in different time zones, you may have to work strange hours. 

While teaching English can be a gratifying job, doing so online can get lonely after a while – especially if you’re a solo traveler. 

How to Get a Teach English Online Job:

Teaching English online requires the same preparation as finding a TEFL job aboard (#39 on this list). Most, but not all, companies will ask applicants to have a bachelor’s degree.

Begin by becoming TEFL certified with a minimum 120-hour course. Online courses run for about $300/120 hours. At the time of writing, Global TEFL is $90/120.

There are many companies hiring online TEFL teachers. Again, here’s a quick guide by Goats on the Road.

54. Telecommuter

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Work a regular desk job from home.

COVID-19 has drastically reshaped the work landscape, and more companies are allowing telecommuting than ever before.

Unless your profession necessitates in-person work, you’ll likely be able to find a remote job posting in your industry. Whether you’re looking for a full-time role or a part-time position, there are all sorts of opportunities available now for telecommuters.

Since remote jobs are long-term contracts with a single company, they typically offer more stability than freelance work while providing some of the same flexibility.

In addition to saving money and time on commuting, remote work allows employees to have more freedom over their schedule and location. Telecommuting means you can live anywhere you’d like (as long as the time zone is compatible with your hours) and find a place that suits your budget. 

Like all jobs, remote work also has its downsides. Off-site employees miss out on the benefits of working at the office, such as free breakfast and socializing with coworkers. For some, working from home makes it difficult to unplug and can also be isolating.

Telecommuting jobs are therefore best for those who enjoy being alone or who already have a supportive community outside of work. 

How to Get a Telecommuter Job:

There are tons of job boards for people who want traditional careers but who also want to work from home. Flexjobs is just one of many. You can also search traditional large job boards.

55. Online Tutor

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Help students with coursework in specific subject areas.

The need for online tutoring is on the rise – demand increased significantly this year since the pandemic has shuttered many schools’ doors around the world. 

Online tutoring offers a lot of flexibility and customization based on your preferences. It can be a full-time job or a side gig, and you can work for yourself or for a company that hires online tutors. 

As a tutor, you’ll provide one-on-one support for students in your chosen areas of expertise. You can select a particular subject, such as math or English, or focus on helping students prepare for standardized tests like the SAT. 

There are no specific requirements to become an online tutor, but you’ll need demonstrated excellence in your chosen field and good communication skills. If you’re hoping to get a job with a tutoring company, it helps if you have previous tutoring or teaching experience. 

Similar to other online jobs, working as a tutor can be lonely if you don’t have a supportive in-person community. But you’ll have the freedom to live and work from anywhere you choose. 

How to Get an Online Tutor Job:

The Balance Careers has a quick introductory guide to online tutoring.

Part 5: Work-Exchange & Volunteering Travel Jobs

56. housesitting.

travel and tours work

Act as caretaker for people’s homes, pets, and plants while they are away.

With a vast selection of homes and environments to choose from, housesitting offers something for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a small cabin in the woods or a luxury villa on the coast, you’ll probably be able to find it on various housesitting sites. 

In addition to taking care of the house, you may also care for homeowners’ pets. You’ll often encounter dogs and cats, but there are also options to housesit on a small farm or at homes with animals like horses, chickens, or even llamas.  

There are many online resources for anyone looking to get started housesitting, as well as a supportive global community. While taking care of someone’s home, you will feel more like a local than a tourist. The homeowners may introduce you to the neighbors and share their favorite restaurants and hangouts, which will quickly immerse you in the local culture and community. 

Housesitting is best for those with other sources of income. While it is possible to find positions that pay, most housesitting jobs offer free accommodation instead of a wage. As a result, it’s a good option for digital nomads, remote workers, slow travelers, retirees, and professionals on sabbatical. Housesitting is also an excellent choice for individuals who are considering moving abroad and want to see if a particular place is a good fit. 

How to Get a Housesitting gig:

There are so many housesitting websites. A google search will bring up those that are most current. Try Trusted House Sitters to start.

travel and tours work

Work-trade on organic farms around the world.

WWOOFing, short for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, is one of the most popular ways to volunteer abroad. In exchange for room and board, WWOOFers typically work 4-6 hours a day on different farms, including vineyards, dairy farms, and apiaries. Duties include assisting with daily tasks such as caring for animals, weeding, picking vegetables, or making cheese. 

The workload, requirements, and overall experience vary significantly from one host to the next. All of the positions require manual labor, so you should be prepared to work hard outdoors regardless of where you end up. While no specific experience is needed, it helps if you have some background in agriculture or farming. Most countries require WWOOFers to be 18 years or older, but there are some exceptions.

The amount of time you work on each farm is up to you and your host. Generally, volunteers work for about 2-3 weeks, but in some cases will stay as long as 6 months. Positions are available in more than 50 countries and attract a diverse group of people. As a WWOOFer, you’ll meet volunteers from around the world, gain practical farming skills, and learn about sustainable agriculture in varied environments.

As a whole, WWOOFing is a unique way to travel cheaply, enjoy nature, live sustainably, and experience the local rural culture. 

How to Get a WWOOF gig:

Sign up for WWOOF (link is to the USA site), which costs around $40/year for a single account or $65 for a double.

Then create a profile and search and contact hosts.

58. Workaway

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Work-exchange ~20 hrs/week with locals around the world in exchange for room & board.

I’m not being hyperbolic when I say Workaway may be the ultimate way to see the world.

These unpaid work-exchanges go like this: you give about 20 hours of your week to help your host with some job you’ve agreed on, and in exchange you receive free room and board for the duration of your stay.

That’s the basic principle. The real benefit beyond not paying for a hostel or eating out is the cultural exchange and the absolutely incredible opportunities for adventure. I’m not quite sure how to capture the allure of what Workaway has to offer without just giving you a sample of the available experiences:

  • Join a family on a sailboat in an around-the-world trip and cook the meals
  • Help build a treehouse on a honeybee farm in Japan
  • Teach computer skills and build a playground for a forest school in Vietnam
  • Rehabilitate puppies at an animal rescue shelter in St Lucia
  • Guide guests at an ecolodge in Madagascar

There are opportunities for any sort of work you can think of, from child care, guest service, and language exchange to art, carpentry, gardening, and computer skills.

It’s so much better than a vacation because you’re living right with the locals and can learn about a new culture, and make a new “family” in each place you go. Nothing else can match that, and the feeling of having a way to contribute to your new community right from the get go. You could set up an entire round-the-world trip through workaway and only ever pay for transportation logistics.

How to Get a Workaway Gig:

Sign up for an account on Workaway .info . It costs about $45 per year but the quantity of amazing opportunities is almost unbelievable. You can browse the hosts without paying but won’t be able to contact them.

You’ll need to set up your profile, choose hosts, and reach out to them to set up each individual work exchange. Make sure your hosts have very positive reviews so that you stay safe in a new place. You can also link accounts with a buddy if you’ll be traveling with a friend or partner. Each of you will be required to have your own account.

59. Yoga, Meditation, & Spirituality

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Lead classes and workshops in mind, body, and spiritual arts.

Yoga, meditation, and spirituality centers worldwide hire volunteers to teach classes and guide guests on their spiritual journeys. Although many positions are unpaid, they offer the chance to spend time in a very tranquil setting and help others on their paths to self-realization. 

These studios and retreat centers are usually located in scenic and peaceful locations, making this an excellent choice for anyone looking to relax in nature. The time commitment will depend on your contract. You’ll rarely work more than 30 hours a week, leaving plenty of time to explore the area. You could even combine this kind of position with an online job that pays. 

Getting a job as a teacher generally requires a background or certification in yoga instruction, meditation, or spiritual teachings. Some studios and centers also hire general volunteers who help with cooking and serving food, cleaning, grocery shopping, and gardening. 

Volunteering is a great way to connect with and learn from other yoga and meditation practitioners and offers enormous potential for personal growth. Most people will share a room with at least one other volunteer, but some positions offer teachers private rooms in exchange for their services. 

How to Get a Yoga, Meditation, or Spirituality Gig:

The Workaway website is a good way to find work-exchanges in the spiritual and movement arts. Paid positions with housing are much rarer and require clever online searching, though some can occasionally be found on Yoga Trade .

60. Fire Lookout

travel and tours work

Watch for smoke and wildfires from a lookout station.

If you love the wilderness, are physically fit, and don’t mind being isolated, then working as a fire lookout could be a unique and rewarding travel job that also has a positive environmental impact.

A fire lookout is just what the name suggests: keeping a close eye on the forest for signs of smoke and fire, from a lookout perch in the wilderness. Catching a fire early is important in preventing wildfires before they become dangerous.

The US used to have more than 10,000 people working as fire lookouts, but that number has declined due to advancements in technology. There are only around 300 fire towers in the US today that are still manned, so getting one of these travel jobs is likely to be challenging. However, as wildfires become more frequent and widespread in the US and many other parts of the world, demand for fire lookouts is expected to grow in the coming years. 

The job requires excellent communication, attention to detail, and critical thinking skills. Many employers prefer at least an associate’s degree, with some requiring more advanced education. Prospective lookouts are more likely to be hired if they have experience in forestry or have worked as field technicians. 

Fire lookouts typically work for government organizations, such as the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service. Many of the positions are reserved for volunteers only and include lodging and a small stipend. 

How to Get a Fire Lookout Job:

Many of the few remaining fire lookout jobs are volunteer based. Most are in the US, Canada, and Australia. You’ll need to apply well in advance of fire season. The jobs are challenging to find.

Here are some tips from a professional fire lookout on Reddit .

My Top Travel Job Search Tips :

  • Search for travel jobs by location on a map
  • Use a location keyword in your own google searches, plus jobs with employee housing, ie “alaska resort jobs with employee housing”
  • Use these sites to find hundreds of travel jobs, volunteer positions, and free ways to stay
  • When in doubt, search google as if you’re a traveling tourist and not a travel job seeker. Find a company you like and then look for its employment page.
  • If none of the jobs you are finding include housing, look in more remote locations. Search for wilderness lodges, islands (not only tropical!), retreat centers, jungles, mountains, and the like.

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About the author

What does a travel agent do?

Would you make a good travel agent? Take our career test and find your match with over 800 careers.

What is a Travel Agent?

A travel agent assists individuals or groups in planning, organizing, and booking various aspects of their travel arrangements. They act as intermediaries between travelers and travel suppliers, such as airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and tour operators. Travel agents have in-depth knowledge of different destinations, travel options, and industry trends, which they leverage to provide personalized recommendations and advice to their clients.

One of the primary roles of a travel agent is to help clients navigate the complex world of travel. They listen to their clients' preferences, budget constraints, and desired experiences, and then work towards creating a tailored itinerary that meets their needs. Travel agents handle tasks such as booking flights, accommodations, ground transportation, and excursions, ensuring that all the necessary arrangements are made smoothly. They can also provide valuable insights on visa requirements, travel insurance, and local customs, helping travelers make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

What does a Travel Agent do?

A travel agent with two clients.

Travel agents possess extensive knowledge and expertise in the travel industry, including destinations, transportation options, accommodations, and activities. This expertise allows them to provide valuable advice and guidance to travelers, helping them make informed decisions and create well-planned itineraries that meet their specific needs and preferences. They also have access to a wide range of resources and tools that enable them to efficiently search for the best deals, discounts, and promotions available. They can often secure exclusive rates and packages, saving their clients both time and money.

Duties and Responsibilities Here are some common tasks and responsibilities associated with being a travel agent:

  • Client Consultation: Travel agents engage in thorough consultations with clients to understand their travel preferences, requirements, and budget. They ask relevant questions to gather necessary information and provide personalized recommendations based on the client's needs.
  • Itinerary Planning: Based on client preferences, travel agents create detailed travel itineraries that include destinations, transportation options, accommodations, and activities. They consider factors like travel dates, budget constraints, and any specific requests from clients.
  • Reservation and Booking: Travel agents handle the booking process for flights, hotels, rental cars, and other travel-related services. They ensure that all bookings are made accurately and efficiently, securing the best available rates and deals for their clients.
  • Travel Documentation and Logistics: Travel agents assist clients in obtaining necessary travel documents such as passports, visas, and travel insurance. They provide guidance on the documentation process and ensure that clients have all the required paperwork in order. Agents also handle logistical aspects like seat assignments, baggage allowances, and transportation arrangements.
  • Knowledge of Destinations: Travel agents possess extensive knowledge about various destinations, including popular attractions, local customs, weather conditions, and safety considerations. They provide valuable information and recommendations to clients, enabling them to make well-informed decisions about their travel plans.
  • Customer Service: Travel agents offer exceptional customer service throughout the entire travel process. They address client inquiries, resolve any issues or concerns that may arise, and provide support during the trip. Agents act as a point of contact for emergencies and assist clients in making alternative arrangements if necessary.
  • Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends: To provide the best service to clients, travel agents stay updated with the latest industry trends, travel regulations, and changes in travel technology. They attend industry conferences, participate in training programs, and conduct research to ensure their knowledge is current.
  • Sales and Marketing: Some travel agents engage in sales and marketing activities to attract new clients and promote travel packages and services. They may participate in trade shows, develop promotional materials, and utilize online platforms to reach a wider audience.
  • Financial Management: Travel agents handle financial transactions related to travel bookings, including processing payments, issuing refunds, and managing invoices. They maintain accurate records of financial transactions and ensure compliance with accounting procedures.
  • Continuous Learning: Travel agents continuously enhance their skills and knowledge by staying updated on travel industry trends, new destinations, and emerging technologies. They actively seek opportunities for professional development to provide the best possible service to their clients.

Types of Travel Agents There are various types of travel agents, each specializing in different aspects of travel and catering to specific clientele. Here are some common types of travel agents and what they do:

  • Leisure Travel Agents: Leisure travel agents focus on organizing vacations and leisure trips for individuals, families, or groups. They assist clients in planning and booking all aspects of their leisure travel, including flights, accommodations, tours, and activities. Leisure travel agents may specialize in specific types of travel, such as beach vacations, cruises, adventure travel, or luxury travel.
  • Corporate Travel Agents: Corporate travel agents primarily cater to business travelers and companies. They handle the complex travel needs of corporate clients, including booking flights, arranging accommodations, managing itineraries, and coordinating travel logistics. Corporate travel agents are familiar with business travel policies, negotiated rates, and preferred vendors to ensure cost-effective and efficient travel arrangements for their clients.
  • Group Travel Agents: Group travel agents specialize in organizing travel for large groups, such as family reunions, weddings, school trips, or corporate retreats. They handle group bookings for flights, accommodations, transportation, and activities, negotiating group rates and coordinating logistics to accommodate the specific needs and preferences of the group.
  • Tour Operators: Tour operators design and operate pre-packaged tours and travel itineraries. They create comprehensive tour packages that include transportation, accommodations, guided tours, and activities. Tour operators often work with travel agents to sell their tour packages, providing them with a ready-made product to offer their clients.
  • Destination Specialists: Destination specialists focus on specific regions, countries, or cities. They have in-depth knowledge of the destination's culture, attractions, local experiences, and logistical considerations. Destination specialists provide expert advice and create customized itineraries for travelers seeking in-depth exploration of a particular destination.
  • Online Travel Agents (OTAs): Online travel agents operate through internet platforms and websites, offering a wide range of travel services. They allow customers to search, compare, and book flights, hotels, rental cars, and other travel services online. Online travel agents may also provide customer support and assistance through online chat or call centers.
  • Niche Travel Agents: Niche travel agents specialize in specific types of travel, catering to niche markets or specialized interests. Examples include adventure travel agents, luxury travel agents, honeymoon specialists, culinary travel agents, or eco-tourism experts. These agents have extensive knowledge and expertise in their niche area, curating unique experiences and tailored itineraries for clients with specific interests.

Are you suited to be a travel agent?

Travel agents have distinct personalities . They tend to be enterprising individuals, which means they’re adventurous, ambitious, assertive, extroverted, energetic, enthusiastic, confident, and optimistic. They are dominant, persuasive, and motivational. Some of them are also conventional, meaning they’re conscientious and conservative.

Does this sound like you? Take our free career test to find out if travel agent is one of your top career matches.

What is the workplace of a Travel Agent like?

The workplace of a travel agent can vary depending on their specific employment arrangement. Some travel agents work in traditional brick-and-mortar travel agencies, which may be part of a larger travel company or operate independently. In these settings, travel agents typically have a physical office space with workstations, computers, and travel industry resources such as brochures, destination guides, and reservation systems. They may have a reception area to welcome clients and conduct in-person consultations.

With the increasing prevalence of remote work and online booking platforms, many travel agents now have the flexibility to work from home or in virtual offices. They utilize technology, such as laptops, smartphones, and high-speed internet, to communicate with clients, access travel resources, and make online bookings. Virtual travel agents often communicate with clients via phone, email, or video conferencing, offering the convenience of remote consultations.

Travel agents also frequently visit destinations, attend industry conferences, and participate in familiarization trips organized by travel suppliers. These opportunities allow them to gain firsthand experience, build relationships with suppliers, and stay updated on the latest travel trends. While travel agents spend a significant amount of time working at their desks, they also have the chance to explore and experience the destinations they recommend to their clients.

In terms of work hours, travel agents may have a standard office schedule, working weekdays during regular business hours. However, they may also need to be flexible, accommodating clients in different time zones or assisting with emergency situations outside of regular office hours. The workload of travel agents can vary throughout the year, with peak periods during holiday seasons or when there are significant events or festivals happening in popular destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pros and cons of being a travel agent.

Being a travel agent can be an exciting and rewarding career for individuals who are passionate about travel and enjoy helping others create memorable experiences. However, like any profession, there are pros and cons to consider.

  • Travel Opportunities: One of the major advantages of being a travel agent is the exposure to diverse travel opportunities. Travel agents often have the chance to visit destinations, experience different cultures, and explore new places as part of their job. This firsthand experience not only enhances their knowledge but also allows them to provide valuable insights and recommendations to clients.
  • Personal Satisfaction: For individuals who are passionate about travel and helping others, being a travel agent can be personally fulfilling. The ability to create personalized itineraries and witness the joy and excitement of clients as they embark on their dream trips can be highly rewarding.
  • Knowledge and Expertise: Travel agents develop a deep understanding of destinations, travel products, and industry trends. They stay up-to-date with the latest information, including visa requirements, safety advisories, and emerging travel destinations. This expertise allows them to provide valuable advice and recommendations to clients, ensuring they have well-planned and memorable travel experiences.
  • Building Relationships: Travel agents have the opportunity to build strong relationships with clients, travel suppliers, and industry professionals. They can establish a network of contacts that can enhance their business and open doors for collaboration and future opportunities.
  • Industry Changes and Competition: The travel industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, online booking platforms, and dynamic pricing models. Travel agents must stay updated with these changes and adapt their business practices accordingly. The rise of online travel agencies and self-booking options has increased competition, requiring travel agents to differentiate themselves and provide added value to their clients.
  • Workload and Time Management: The travel industry can be demanding, especially during peak travel seasons. Travel agents may need to work long hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate client needs and handle emergencies. Proper time management skills are essential to balance the workload and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
  • Pressure for Exceptional Customer Service: Travel agents are expected to deliver outstanding customer service consistently. They must handle client inquiries, resolve issues, and manage expectations throughout the travel process. This level of customer service can be challenging, particularly when dealing with unforeseen circumstances or dissatisfied clients.
  • Commission-Based Income: While some travel agents receive a salary or hourly wage, others rely on commission-based income. This means their earnings are directly tied to the bookings they secure for clients. It can take time to build a client base and establish a steady income stream, especially in the early stages of a travel agent's career.

Travel Agents are also known as: Travel Consultant

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Join our team

At EF Go Ahead Tours, we make world travel easy. We want to empower travelers of all ages to get out there and experience something new on our guided tours. If you share this passion for opening the world, come work with us.

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Perks & benefits

Generous vacation time Earn four weeks of paid vacation during your first year along with ten paid holidays and two floating holidays.

International travel We go on tour once a year to ensure we fully understand our customer experience. Get your passport ready!

Affinity Groups Connect with your colleagues across offices and cultures. Our Employee run "EFinity groups include Black@EF, LGBTQ+@EF, LatinX+@EF, API@EF, Accessiblility@EF, Jewish@EF, Faith@EF, Indigenous@EF and Parents@EF + More

Market-leading benefits Our package includes leading healthcare benefits, 401k with company match, and much more.

Unique & fun work culture We were voted a Top Place to Work by the Boston Globe!

Professional Development Opportunities Robust monthly calendar or trainings and workshops committed to your professional growth.

Career opportunities

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Our Sales Development Program is designed to accelerate the careers of high performing candidates and prepare them for leadership. Tour Consultants play a critical role in developing customer acquisition and retention strategies. Summer Sales Internship

New roles opening soon for our Fall start date!

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Traveler Support Specialists serve as the primary source of information to travelers after booking tours. Keen attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a creative approach to problem-solving are key to success on this team.

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Our incredible team of Creatives and Marketers set trends for the travel industry. Be a part of a crew that figuratively, and literally, takes you places. Marketing SEO Manager

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This team is changing the way we do business and making travel happen. A group of designers, analysts, product managers, and engineers developing new and innovative travel experiences.

Product Analyst Senior Salesforce Administrator Senior Digitial Product Analyst, Web Senoir Salesforce Engineer Senior Digital Product Analyst Engineering Manager, Salesforce

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Be a part of the team that turns travel dreams into reality. EU Passport or work visa? ✓ Desire to work and live in Zurich Switzerland? ✓ These roles could be for you! Procurement Specialist, South Pacific Procurment Operations Specialist-France Procurement Specialist/Buyer-UK

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These unique opportunities don't fit into any one bucket. Hopefully, you don't either! Explore below and apply!

Senior Analyst, Business Operations & Analytics

Although we list out what we generally look for, it's possible we are missing other attributes and skills that you have that could make you a great fit. Research has shown that women and other marginalized groups tend to apply only if they have 100% of the listed required experiences, versus men who apply if they hit roughly 60% of the requirements. All of this to say, it never hurts to take a chance and apply! Not seeing the right position but still interested in learning more about EF Go Ahead Tours? Email us at [email protected] to connect.

Explore opportunities across EF Education First at careers.ef.com

Not based out of Boston or Denver but open to relocating for the job? Great! Check out these EF Blog posts on the most important things to know about living and working in Boston and Denver!:

Meet the Boston Office Meet the Denver Office

See you out there!

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Tour Operator Software

How does the travel industry actually work?

A traveller exploring an alleyway with pink buildings, and the words Understanding the travel industry.

You may be new to the travel industry, investigating a career in travel or just trying to research a bit about the industry ahead of your next adventure. There’s a mass of information out there and it can be overwhelming to wrap your head around. Lucky for you, our team of travel experts have been hard at work to give you a bird’s eye view of the travel industry as a whole .

The travel industry has gone through many evolutions with a variety of external factors contributing to who has access to travel, where they are travelling to and what the travel industry looks like overall.

A few important travel industry statistics

Let’s start by setting the scene…the travel industry is HUGE and the numbers certainly prove it .

In 2022, the travel industry contributed 9.5% GDP with a traveller purchasing a ticket; employed 320 million people globally with a tour guide telling a story; and 969.4 million international tourist arrivals with a traveller excited to explore the city they are in.

Source: Statista

A brief history of the travel industry

We are fortunate to live in a globalised world meaning that travel is reasonably accessible. At the press of a button, most people are able to book a flight and jet off to wherever our wallets will take us. 

But, it hasn’t always been so easy. To help you understand how the industry has developed to the point it has today and where it might head in the future, here is a travel industry timeline.

Before the mid 20th century, travel was reserved for the extremely wealthy. It was expensive and it was time-consuming (can you imagine having to travel on a boat for 3 weeks…. or 3 months!). The concept of a ‘travel industry’ had not yet formed; it was more a collection of hotels, restaurants and coachlines who all operated independently from one another.

1950 – 2000

After the Second World War, travel suddenly started to become accessible for many more people due to the development of commercial airlines. Although they were originally still very expensive,  costs started to reduce over the years and more people were able to invest in seeing the world.

The industry grew and grew, and many saw a gap in the market for people wanting to travel but not having the knowledge, or time to organise it themselves – travel agents and tour operators started to establish themselves!

2000 – 2019

The travel industry has undoubtedly boomed, and the way that people travel is almost unrecognisable from the early 20th century. With smartphones, we now have unlimited apps at our fingertips, specifically designed to make every aspect of travel easier. 

For travellers, there are websites and apps to help them plan their travel, help them while travelling and to give them inspiration for their next trip! For travel agents and tour operators, itinerary software has streamlined much of their processes, from itinerary planning to customer relationship management. Now all this technology is amazing, and helps our lives in many ways, but has also resulted in fragmentation of the travel industry with travellers choosing to plan and manage their trips themselves or online increasingly.

 2020 and the future of travel

Due to the pandemic and the pause in travel, both countries and travellers worldwide re-evaluated travel and how it should be conducted. Countries who experienced over-tourism considered ways to encourage more sustainable travel in their destinations . For travellers, Covid triggered them to start thinking about their bucket list destinations and working with travel designers to plan and book them. This resulted in tourism returning with a significant rise in 2022, although the industry is indicating it might be plateauing in 2023/2024 .

How does the industry actually work?

You may be thinking to yourselves, how does travel actually function as an industry . How does it all fit together? You are not alone, it’s a complex industry notorious for its jargon, terminology and abundance of acronyms!

A diagram explaining the travellers journey from inspiration to destination, which involves intermediaries like tour operators, travel agents, DMC's and Suppliers.

As you can see there are a few key players to remember:

Tourism Boards and Government organisations: Usually run or overseen by local or national governments. These boards set in place regulations for the other players in the industry. They also market countries or cities as tourist destinations for potential travellers

Suppliers/Vendors: Suppliers (or Vendors) are the hotels, the restaurants and the activity providers that travellers eat, stay and partake in on their travels. Travellers may liaise with and purchase from suppliers directly if they are organising their own travels, or communications with suppliers may be managed entirely by a middle-man (AKA, the tour operator, travel agent, travel wholesaler or DMC).

Tour Operators: Tour Operators design itineraries, often tailor made, for their customers, liaising with suppliers to organise and book the travel itinerary (partially or start to finish)

Travel Agents: Travel agents liaise with tour operators to book packages and tours for their clients. As such, tour operators will often focus on a certain destination or market area, whereas travel agents can focus on selling the whole world – with a comprehensive list of suppliers in their books

Destination Management Companies (DMC’s) : Organisations that specialise in offering tours, logistics, and planning services for a particular destination. They often re-sell their services to tour operators

Ground Handlers : A ground handler takes care of some day to day operations and tour management such as picking customers up from the airport and arranging sightseeing tours

Associations and Memberships: These organisations exist to provide support, promotion, and opportunity to other players in the travel industry. All of them operate with a slightly different mission, whether it’s to promote sustainable business practices, celebrate the luxury travel market or to connect travellers with LGBTQ friendly travel businesses

Travellers: Arguably the most important cog in the wheel. Everyone in the tourism industry sets out to meet travellers’ needs – to ensure they keep coming back for more!

The beauty of the travel industry supply chain is how all of these key players work together creating one of the worlds biggest industries.   

A diagram explaining how all the key players in the travel industry interact with each other and work together to market to the traveller.

 Interested to learn more?

The ultimate A-Z glossary for the Travel industry. Understand the different terms, jargon and acronyms.

For a taste of the luxury end of travel, explore our list of Exclusive luxury travel communities

To discover more about sustainable tourism, download our ebook focusing on how to elevate travel design with sustainability.

Travel designers- meet the influencers you should work with.

Travel designers- meet the influencers you should work with.

Understand the role travel influencers play in the industry and why tour operators should be following, interacting and collaborating with them. Explore eight global travel influencers who are inspiring travellers daily.

Tourism news websites you can trust

Tourism news websites you can trust

In the tourism industry it can be hard to differentiate the reliable travel news sources from the not-so-trustworthy ones. In this blog we summarise the top travel news websites that tour operators, travel agencies and DMC’s should pay attention to.

How to set your team up for success when introducing new software

How to set your team up for success when introducing new software

Making changes happen is hard. Especially when it is something that will create a significant impact on the way you work, like new software. We discover what change management is and how it can assist you, your leaders and your team in creating new processes that will make you more successful in the long run. Is it time for a change?

How can tour operators contribute to sustainable tourism?

How can tour operators contribute to sustainable tourism?

Sustainability is a key pillar of tourism, with a growing number of people interested in travelling responsibly and sustainably. We explore the easy ways in which your tour operator business can make a positive change. You can help to encourage economic growth and protect our environment whilst also watching your business flourish… could it get better?

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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023

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Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2023 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

Images of nature around the mountains and lakes of Slovenia as seen on the Exodus Travels' Lakes and Mountains of Slovenia walking tour

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 12-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

A Taste of the Sweet Life in Slovenia

Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

Groups of hikers walking and camping around the mountains of Kilimanjaro with World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

People visiting famous sites around China with the G Adventures' China Express group travel tour

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $559 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $800.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

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Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

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When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Shots from around Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and accommodations provided by Intrepid Travel's Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 7 million dollars to over 130 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-29 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters on Intrepid Travel’s Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip which includes time with the mountain gorillas of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. 

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Aerial shots of various islands and coastlines around the Croatia and Dalmation Islands and shot of sailboat belonging to Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Shots of the interior and exterior of the Ocean Adventurer ship and shots of nature around Antarctica as seen on the Chimu Adventures' Antarctica Fly Cruise

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination.

For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina). Can’t stay long? Book one of Chimu Adventures’ scenic flights to Antarctica , which fly as far as the south pole in one spectacular 16-hour day.

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $5,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

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Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Collage of images from the For the Love of Travel Lapland Tour

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to nearby destinations like Mexico or Denver—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Collage of shots from DuVine's Holland Bike Tour

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Collage of images from the different cities involved in the Abercrombie & Kent Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

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The 15 Best Tour Operators in 2022

These are the companies Travel + Leisure readers trust to provide them with travel expertise and memorable experiences.

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Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite tour operators .

When it comes to an itinerary, Travel + Leisure readers want more than a string of photo opportunities — and the right tour operator makes all the difference in creating a trip of a lifetime versus one that simply checks off a list of sights. This year, our readers were especially drawn to companies that utilize local expertise and experience to thoughtfully design trips that will entertain as well as inspire.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey , T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated tour operators and safari outfitters based on their staff and guides, itineraries and destinations, activities, accommodations, food, and overall value.

The top picks were noted for their deep knowledge of destinations and guides who "go the extra mile." One reader who has been traveling for more than five decades said a trip with Classic Journeys (No. 2) was the "very best" they had experienced. Others noted attention to pandemic safety details, while one who went to Norway was charmed by a "wonderful surprise dinner in Bergen out on the water that was fantastic."

Tour operators that seamlessly navigated the logistics of a trip also came out on top. Quasar Expeditions (No. 9) was noted "for really planning out every detail" so that "all you have to do is show up and have a great time." Meanwhile, of TCS World Travel (No. 10), a guest said: "You never lift a finger and just spend your time actually exploring the destination." They even added that they "learned so much" along the way.

Among the five companies on this year's list that weren't on last year's were two women-only tour operators that cater to travelers of all ages. AdventureWomen (No. 14) has multiday tours designed by women from Bhutan to Yellowstone National Park, while Explorer Chick (No. 15) has everything from day trips — like glassblowing in Baltimore and cave rappelling in St. Louis — to full itineraries in Machu Picchu and the Galápagos. One reader said her Everest Base Camp trip with AdventureWomen was filled with "like-minded women" who "bonded so well," while another said she felt it was a "safe tour group for women."

No matter which tour they chose, readers were most taken by the people they met along the way, as one said of Trek Travel (No. 13): "By the end of the trip, a group of strangers felt like longtime friends." Find out which other companies round out the list of the best tour operators below.

1. DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co.

A tour with DuVine goes far beyond just riding a bike — it's a way to really see the character of a destination. Case in point: even those who say they're not necessarily cycling fans have been converted. That's part of what helped the tour operator — which runs trips in Europe, the U.S., Latin America, and Africa — skyrocket from No. 14 last year to this year's top spot. Its "top-notch biking equipment" and "challenging but doable itineraries" didn't hurt either. One reader was especially taken by a guide picking figs off of a local tree in Puglia for an extra energy boost during a tough climb, as well as another guide singing to the group after dinner. As another reader put it simply: "They exceed your expectations."

Score: 99.12

More information: duvine.com

2. Classic Journeys

Score: 99.04

More information: classicjourneys.com

3. Artisans of Leisure

Score: 98.38

More information: artisansofleisure.com

4. (tie) Black Tomato

Score: 98.33

More information: blacktomato.com

4. (tie) GeoEx

More information: geoex.com

4. (tie) Wilderness Travel

More information: wildernesstravel.com

7. Inside Japan Tours

Score: 98.14

More information: insidejapantours.com

8. Kensington Tours

Score: 98.03

More information: kensingtontours.com

9. Quasar Expeditions

Score: 97.84

More information: quasarex.com

10. TCS World Travel

Score: 97.78

More information: tcsworldtravel.com

11. Butterfield & Robinson

Score: 97.33

More information: butterfield.com

Score: 96.95

More information: tauck.com

13. Trek Travel

Score: 96.90

More information: trektravel.com

14. AdventureWomen

Score: 96.11

More information: adventurewomen.com

15. Explorer Chick

Score: 95.87

More information: explorerchick.com

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RUSSIA TRAVEL PACKAGES A selection of Russian tours to take as they are or adjust to your needs.

THE GOLDEN RING Visit the heart of ancient Russia. What is the Golden Ring?

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We are here to navigate you through Moscow and beyond. We specialize in private and customer-tailored tours for individuals and groups.

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We are officially endorsed by Moscow Government to guide in most iconic tourist attractions of Russia’s capital such as Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, museums of the Moscow Kremlin, the Tretyakov Art Gallery, etc.

We love our city and are ready to share with you our in-depth knowledge of Moscow, this old but very dynamic and amazing city. We will be glad to provide context and fun in equal measure opening up your eyes to Russian history, culture and art.

We know how to make the most of your time while you are here and will be delighted to turn your stay in Moscow into a life experience.

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    The possibility of remote work has increased as a result of the pandemic, so you can travel and work from anywhere with a good internet connection. ... Pilots tend to start out flying charter flights and tours. Median salary: $148,900. Job outlook: 4 percent (as fast than average) Entry-level education: Bachelor's degree. 8. Yoga or sports ...

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    National average salary: ₹ 5,19,412 per year Primary duties: Concierges typically work at hotels where they assist the guests by booking tours, handling transportation and making dinner or theatre reservations. It may require them to suggest to the hotel guests some of the best local dining places or entertainment venues like historical ...

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