Travelling around the world is something that everyone should have the opportunity to do at some point in their life. Unfortunately, it’s money that tends to hold people back.
If it’s an issue facing you, there are ways to get around it. Even if you don’t have grand financial reserves to tap into, the answer could be to support yourself as you go. Here are some ways to do it.
Remote freelance work
Remote working has become the norm across many industries in recent years. Companies are more willing than ever to outsource tasks to freelancers, whether it’s graphic design, copywriting, software development or virtual assistance.
Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to start if you’re looking to grow your client base. You’ll be able to find clients anywhere in the world and be able to work anywhere in the world while you travel.
It won’t come easy, but with hard work and perseverance, you may just be able to sustain yourself on the adventure of a lifetime.
Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
Another popular option for travellers is teaching English in other countries. The demand for qualified English speakers in non-English speaking countries is often high. Many schools and educational institutions give the option of teaching online and in-person, depending on what opportunities you find.
You will need a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) qualification to be considered in most places, however. These courses take at least 120 hours to earn, usually spread over 10-12 weeks. It’s a big time commitment, but they’re generally quite affordable and most can be done online.
With a qualification in your back pocket, you can start to look for English teaching jobs abroad. Asia, South America, Africa – the world is your oyster with TEFL. And you’ll probably get paid well, too!
Earning money through investments
If passive income sounds more up your street, consider investments. These allow you to earn while you travel without having to “work” in the usual sense. There may be some upkeep if you’re actively trading stocks or commodities, but other options like property can be as hands-off as you like.
Things should be set up before you leave to give you that financial security from the get-go. If trading or investing is interesting to you, find the right trading platform to work from. Some specialise in certain markets, while others provide comprehensive access to all the major assets.
This option is usually more viable if you have some cash to invest upfront because gains can be slow to accumulate. And remember, you aren’t guaranteed to make money and you could even lose it with investments.
If these don’t sound interesting, you can always work in different countries as you go. Seasonal and temporary work are perfect for travellers, giving you a quick income source as you jump from place to place. You might need a special visa to work and travel in certain countries, so do your research!
