These days, you won’t surprise anyone by saying that you combine work and travel. In fact, many people aspire to such a lifestyle. Having a computer and an Internet connection is often enough to start a personal business or a new career online. Such jobs can be sufficient enough for indulging in long-term travel experiences, changing numerous locations, and having plenty of time to explore new cities and cultures. So, let’s have a closer look at how you can combine traveling and earning money, what jobs to choose, and how to make it work. Here are some ideas to help you achieve your travel dreams.
Remote Work
The first option is rather easy and requires minimum changes on your side. See if your work can be done remotely and how you can achieve that. Some people don’t need to be physically present in the office to do good in their positions. Hence, if you are lucky enough to have such a job already – use it! Find countries where you can live in the same time zone as your office (if that’s important), and go for it.
Of course, such a change can be stressful and chaotic at first. Starting to work remotely with little experience can be challenging at first. Yet, as you master all the necessary skills for such a transition, you grow more confident in your abilities. The key here is to maintain a solid work-life balance and be free to explore new cities between work.
Digital Nomad Jobs
A nomadic lifestyle may not be for everyone. Yet, it is worth trying if you feel like working and traveling long-term is your ideal lifestyle. Quite often, digital nomads are those who travel constantly and don’t stay in a single place for too long. These are also the people who utilize modern technology for their work. Thus, many freelancers, bloggers, designers, and programmers, among others, are typical digital nomads.
Their work is rarely bound to a specific job or location. They are free to work and live based on their preferences. Most digital nomads are either self-employed or have project-based jobs. Thus, they can balance their work and travel time at their own pace, never depend on time zones, etc.
Tourism and Hospitality
Specialists in tourism and hospitality often choose to work abroad. After all, their professional training is mainly focused on pleasing tourists and travelers worldwide. Such jobs may include working in hotels, resorts, tour companies, or even cruise ships. The variety of jobs also depends on your level of training and professional experience. Your options include working as a bartender, tour guide, hotel personnel or management, desk staff, etc. Such work can be ideal as a seasonal job and a chance to explore many countries while working on your resume.
Volunteering
It may surprise you, but some volunteering organizations also offer paid jobs. Thus, if you have specific and in-demand experience or education, various volunteer organizations or NGOs will be willing to compensate you for your time or offer free accommodation, food, paid insurance, etc. The level of return for your services will depend on the type of job you provide.
Such an option can be a rewarding way to contribute to the cause you believe in, see the world, and earn money in the process. Besides, volunteer work looks great on a resume and can open up new career opportunities.
Tips on Combining Travel and Work
Now that you know of common ways to earn money while traveling, let’s see tips on making it work without stress or missing out on anything important.
Plan Your Itinerary Wisely
Your choice of destination plays an immense role in the success of the whole enterprise. You need to choose an area with a good and affordable Internet connection. You also may want to consider coworking space availability. Next, see the overall cost of living, safety concerns, climate conditions, local customs, and other essential information before moving to a new place.
Embrace Slow Travel
Most people are rather accustomed to the fast-paced travel experience. Usually, we don’t have much time when we are on vacation, so we rush to see and try as much as possible. However, as a long-term traveler, you must pace yourself and embrace the nature of slow traveling. It means staying in a single location for longer, building connections, exploring local culture from the inside, and enjoying stability while abroad.
Prioritize Self-Care
Working while traveling can turn into a rather exhausting experience very soon unless you are careful. So, you should be ready to pause and prioritize self-care over making money or seeing new sights. Learn to recognize when you need a break and learn healthy lifestyle patterns to balance your life and get enough rest over these emotionally and physically draining activities.
Set Boundaries
Defining boundaries between work and travel is important, especially if you mainly work online as a blogger or influencer. These jobs expose you to online negativity, often leading to burnout and chronic stress. In fact, you should see what is cyber bullying essay to know when you experience pressure or bullying online. Try to avoid overworking or letting work consume your entire travel experience. Dedicate specific time to fully immerse yourself in the local environment.