Get Paid to Travel: How to Turn Your Wanderlust into an Awesome Paycheck

Many dream of getting paid to travel and explore new destinations while earning a living. In this comprehensive guide, I will explore various methods and opportunities that allow you to make money traveling. In my years as a freelance digital nomad, I have used many of these ways to get paid to travel.

I’ll discuss how travel blogging can generate income through SEO and affiliates, partnerships with tourism boards and brands, public speaking engagements, and running group tours. I’ll explore freelance writing and photography opportunities in popular travel publications and share tips for pitching your story ideas successfully.

Beyond writing, photography, and videography, freelancing also offers potential earnings. I will examine licensing images through stock photo agencies, selling prints directly to customers, offering workshops or courses teaching photography skills, and monetizing video content via YouTube or Vimeo.

For those interested in teaching English online as a digital nomad income source, we will cover popular online tutoring platforms for teaching English and the requirements and qualifications needed. Finally, we’ll look at unconventional ways to get paid to travel, such as vehicle relocation services, remote work opportunities in web development/management, and an online course, “Be A Travel Writer.” 

The information packed in this guide should put you on the road to turning your passion for adventure into a sustainable travel career.

How to Save Money for Your Travels

Unless you have cash in the bank, many people might have to save up money before they start traveling. Before my cross country trip in 2021 as an Rving newbie, I did several things to downsize my life and save money for traveling.

Five Money Saving Downsizing Ideas

1. Reduce your living expenses. The first thing I did was move out of my house and find a tenant. I sold or gave away a bunch of furniture and only kept what I’d need to move back into my tiny 425 sq. foot cottage when I returned.
2. Sell extra furniture or clothes. I used Craigslist and Nextdoor to sell some stuff I didn’t need anymore. Everything helps to add cash to the travel fund when you’re first starting out.
3. Find some extra freelance work or side gigs. I found some small design projects through Dribbble and Upwork.
4. Start a budget. I wrote down everything I spent and then added in camping fees and gas so I could estimate what I’d need for my monthly expenses while on the road. It’s amazing how cheaply you can live and the things you can live without.
5. Pay off your debts. It was such a great feeling to make my final payment on my Airstream. I had borrowed money from a friend to buy it and it took a year of monthly payments to pay off the debt. Now that I’m debt free its even less overhead when I’m traveling.

Travel Blogging

Travel bloggers can earn a healthy income by diversifying their income streams and treating their travel blog as an online business. But don’t expect to create a travel blog and expect the cash to flow right in. Travel blogging is not a get-rich-quick scheme for huge travel income.

I started my travel blog to share my photography and travel experiences with my friends and family and the bigger world of travelers who want to make money traveling. I’ve been working remotely as a digital nomad for almost ten years, so I know a few things about how to get paid to travel.

I’ve invested lots of time, learning, and energy in creating this travel blog, which I love to do. And if it can make me money, that is the icing on the cake. It sometimes feels like work; it feels like a fun way to be creative.

Travel bloggers earn income through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and advertising on their websites or social media accounts.

Advertising on Websites and Social Media Platforms

• Affiliate Marketing: Tons of companies want you to promote their products on your blog, and then you earn a commission for every sale made through your unique referral link. I’m an affiliate for many travel companies, such as Harvest Hosts, RVlife, TechnoRV, and many more.
• Amazon Associates: Generate passive income by writing product reviews, creating blog posts for lists of products you endorse, and placing ads on your blog through companies like Medavine and getting paid when visitors click on them.
• Sponsored Posts: Partner with brands that align with your values and create content promoting their products or services in exchange for payment.

Partnerships with Tourism Boards and Brands

Collaborate with tourism boards and brands for paid partnerships by creating content showcasing specific destinations or experiences. To secure such alliances, having an established online presence and demonstrating expertise within your niche market is essential.

Public Speaking at Conferences

Become known as an expert in the travel industry and open up opportunities for public speaking engagements at conferences and events. Share valuable insights gained from personal experiences to build credibility among fellow travelers and generate additional income sources from speaking fees or book sales.

Running Group Tours

Organize and lead group tours to share your passion for exploring new destinations and earn money—partner with established tour operators or create custom itineraries based on your expertise and interests.

In summary, travel blogging offers numerous opportunities to generate income while pursuing a passion for exploration and adventure. Diversify your revenue streams through advertising partnerships, public speaking engagements, and even running group tours. The possibilities are endless.

Freelance Writing Opportunities

Love to travel and write? Freelance travel writing is a great way to make money while exploring the world. Many publications accept submissions from aspiring writers. Some popular travel publications that accept freelance submissions include Transitions Abroad, World Nomads, GoAbroad.com, Best Travel Writing, Road & Travel Magazine, Huffington Post, and BBC Travel.

To increase your chances of getting published, follow these tips:

• Research the publication: Familiarize yourself with each publication’s style, tone, and content before submitting your work. This will help you tailor your pitch to fit their specific audience.
• Create a compelling pitch: Your pitch should briefly summarize your story idea while highlighting its unique angle or perspective. Make sure it stands out among other pitches by showcasing what makes it unique or newsworthy.
• Showcase your expertise: If you have prior experience in travel writing or relevant qualifications (such as language skills), mention them in your pitch to demonstrate why you’re well-suited for the assignment.

Tips on Pitching Your Story Ideas Successfully

1. Follow submission guidelines: Each publication has its own set of submission guidelines, which may include word count limits, preferred formats, and deadlines. Adhere to these requirements to increase your chances of being considered.
2. Be persistent: Breaking into freelance travel writing can be challenging, but don’t get discouraged by rejection. Keep refining your pitches and submitting them to different publications until you succeed.
3. Nurture relationships with editors: Once you’ve successfully published a piece in a particular publication, contact the editor for future opportunities. They may be more likely to consider your work if they know your previous contributions.

In addition to pitching articles directly to publications, consider joining online platforms such as Freelancer, Upwork, or ClearVoice. These websites connect freelancers with clients seeking content creators for various projects, including travel writing assignments. By diversifying where you pitch and submit your work, you’ll have more opportunities for paid gigs while traveling the globe.

Photography and Videography Careers While Traveling

If you are passionate about capturing stunning visuals, pursuing a career in photography or videography while traveling can be an excellent way to earn money. With the ever-growing demand for quality visuals, numerous opportunities are available that let you travel and make money without worrying about finances.

Licensing Images Through Stock Photo Agencies

One popular way to monetize your photography skills is through stock photo agencies licensing your images. These platforms allow photographers to sell their work to clients who need visuals for marketing materials, websites, or other purposes. By uploading your best shots regularly, you can create a passive income stream that grows over time as more people purchase your photos.

Selling Prints Directly To Customers

Besides stock photo agencies, another option is selling prints directly to customers. You can set up an online store using platforms like Etsy or Squarespace, where fans of your work can purchase physical copies of your photographs. This approach allows you to control pricing and offers higher profit margins than stock photo sales.

Offering Workshops Or Courses Teaching Photography Skills

• If you’re confident in both your technical abilities and teaching skills, consider offering workshops or courses on photography techniques while traveling. Many aspiring photographers would love the opportunity to learn from someone with real-world experience capturing breathtaking scenes around the globe.
• You could also create online courses using platforms like Udemy or Skillshare, which allow you to reach a broader audience and generate income even when you’re not actively teaching.

Monetizing Video Content Via YouTube/Vimeo

Videographers can also find success by creating engaging content for platforms like YouTube or Vimeo. By producing high-quality videos showcasing your travels, you can attract viewers interested in the destinations you visit. As your channel expands, there are more possibilities for monetization through ads and partnerships with businesses that want to access your viewers.

In addition to these methods, networking with other professionals in the travel industry can lead to collaborative projects and referrals. Building a solid portfolio of work is essential for showcasing your skills and attracting clients. Remember, persistence is critical – success will follow as you continue honing your craft and exploring new opportunities.

Teaching English Online as a Digital Nomad Income Source

Teaching English online is the new cool. It offers excellent flexibility, enabling you to work anywhere with an internet link. Travelers who wish to gain an income while discovering new lands and customs can easily do so through teaching English online. You can quickly get started on platforms like VIPKid or iTutorGroup.

Popular Online Tutoring Platforms for Teaching English

• VIPKid
• iTutorGroup
• SayABC
• Dada ABC (now closed)
• Gogokid (now closed)

Requirements and Qualifications to Teach English Online

Most platforms require at least a bachelor’s degree in any field to teach English online. A TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certification will increase your chances of getting hired and earning higher pay rates. Some companies may also require prior teaching experience or specific qualifications related to the subject matter.

Tips for Managing Time Zones and Scheduling Classes

1. Familiarize yourself with time zone differences between your location and your students.
2. Create a consistent schedule that accommodates both your and your student’s availability.
3. Use online tools like World Time Buddy to easily convert time zones and plan your classes accordingly.
4. Set boundaries for your work hours, ensuring you have enough time to explore and enjoy your travels while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Teaching English online offers opportunities for personal growth as an educator. You can develop strong communication skills, cultural awareness, and adaptability by interacting with students from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, this profession allows you to positively impact others’ lives by helping them improve their language skills and expand their global perspectives.

If you’re passionate about education and eager to combine it with your love for travel, teaching English online is an excellent way to achieve both goals simultaneously. There’s no better time to embark on this exciting journey with numerous platforms catering specifically to digital nomads seeking remote income sources.

Remote Work Opportunities in Web Design, Development and Management

Traveling and earning money at the same time? Yes, it’s possible. Consider remote work opportunities in web design, development and management. Many businesses need help maintaining and updating their websites remotely, so you can work from anywhere without sacrificing income.

Types of Remote Web Design & Development Jobs Available

• Web Designer: Design templates using frameworks, work with clients to decide colors and layout and design esthetics.
• Front-end Developer: Design website layouts and appearances using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks like ReactJS or AngularJS.
• Back-end Developer: Work on server-side programming languages like PHP or Ruby on Rails to create secure databases that store website data.
• CMS Specialist: Specialize in content management systems like WordPress or Drupal, which allow users to update website content without coding knowledge.
• eCommerce Developer: Develop online stores using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce with expertise in payment gateway integration and inventory management systems set up.

Tips for Success in Remote Web Design & Development Careers

1. Create an impressive portfolio: Showcase your skills through a well-designed personal website featuring examples of previous projects and client testimonials. A strong portfolio is essential when applying for remote jobs since it demonstrates your abilities effectively to potential employers. Be inspired by other creatives on sites such as Behance and Dribbble.
2. Hone your technical skills: Stay competitive by constantly updating your knowledge on the latest web development tools, programming languages, and frameworks. Online platforms like Udemy or Coursera offer various courses to help you improve your skills.
3. Develop strong communication abilities: As a remote worker, it’s crucial to communicate effectively with clients or team members through email, video calls, and project management tools such as Trello or Asana. Practice clear, concise writing and active listening during virtual meetings for better collaboration in remote work environments.
4. Network within the industry: Join online communities like Stack Overflow or GitHub, where developers share ideas, ask questions, and collaborate on projects. Networking can lead to job opportunities and referrals from fellow professionals.

By incorporating these tips into your career strategy, you’ll increase your chances of finding success as a remote web developer while enjoying the freedom that comes with traveling.

Make Money While Traveling: Try Vehicle Relocation

Driving someone else’s car home, known as vehicle relocation, is an unconventional way to earn cash while traveling. Companies often need cars, RVs, or boats transported from one location to another and are willing to pay drivers. This allows travelers to explore different regions while making money simultaneously.

Find Companies Offering Vehicle Relocation Jobs

Find reputable companies offering such services to get started with vehicle relocation jobs. Some popular options include Auto Driveaway, Horizon Transport, and Transfercar US. These platforms connect drivers with clients requiring vehicles moved across states or countries. Create a profile on any platform mentioned in Paragraph A and review available listings to begin your vehicle relocation journey.

Tips for Successfully Completing Vehicle Relocations

• Plan your route: Before embarking on any trip, use tools like Google Maps or Waze. Avoid potential traffic issues or construction zones along the way to avoid delays in delivering the client’s vehicle.
• Maintain communication: Keep in touch with the company coordinating your move and the car’s owner throughout your journey by providing regular updates about your progress. This builds trust between all parties involved.
• Budget wisely: Some companies cover fuel costs, but others may not. Be aware of any expenses you must cover during your trip and budget accordingly.
• Inspect the vehicle: Before starting your journey, inspect the car for any pre-existing damage or issues. Document these findings with photos and report them to the owner and the company coordinating your move.
• Drive responsibly: Remember that you are responsible for someone else’s property while driving their vehicle. Follow all traffic laws, drive defensively, and avoid distractions behind the wheel to ensure safe delivery.

Vehicle relocation is an exciting way to explore new destinations while earning money. By finding reputable companies offering such opportunities and following essential tips for successful relocations, travelers can make this unique side gig work in their favor as they traverse different regions across America or even internationally.

Online Course “Be A Travel Writer” – Learning From Industry Professionals

For those wishing to pursue a career as a travel writer, the “Be A Travel Writer” online course provides an excellent opportunity to learn from experienced industry professionals such as Stacey Leasca. This program offers aspiring writers the chance to learn from industry professionals like Stacey Leasca, a freelance journalist specializing in lifestyle and travel writing.

In this course, you’ll discover how to:

• Get curious about different cultures and find your niche
• Cultivate secondary skills such as photography and videography
• Persist despite rejection and keep trying until you achieve success

The world of travel writing can be competitive, but with persistence and dedication, it’s possible to make money traveling while sharing your experiences through various media outlets. The key is finding publications that align with your interests and style.

Finding Your Niche in Travel Writing

To stand out among other writers in the saturated market of travel stories, it’s essential to find a unique angle or focus on specific aspects of destinations that resonate with readers. For example, if sustainable tourism is vital to you or adventure sports excite you more than anything else – these could be great niches for developing expertise. Check out this list of adventure travel blogs for inspiration.

Cultivating Secondary Skills: Photography & Videography

A picture speaks louder than words. Aspiring travel writers should also consider honing their photography or videography skills since visuals play an integral role in capturing the reader’s attention. Platforms like YouTube offer opportunities for monetizing video content related to travel, while websites like Shutterstock allow photographers to sell images online.

Persistence Despite Rejection: Keep Trying

Rejection is a part of the freelance writing journey, but don’t let it discourage you. Use feedback to improve your craft and continue pitching ideas to various publications. Remember that every successful travel writer started somewhere – persistence pays off. Check out this list of travel writing tips for more inspiration.

Maximizing Exposure & Audience Reach

It’s crucial to build an online presence through social media platforms or a personal blog to increase your chances of success in the competitive world of travel writing. Share your work with others and engage with fellow travelers with similar interests. Check out this list of budget travel blogs for more inspiration.

Travel Writing Tips, Top Travel Publications, and Photography for Travel Writers are excellent resources for aspiring writers looking to break into this exciting field.

The “Be A Travel Writer” course equips you with all the necessary tools and knowledge to turn your passion for exploring new places into a lucrative career while providing invaluable insights from seasoned professionals like Stacey Leasca.

FAQs about Get Paid to Travel

How much do travel articles pay?

Payment varies depending on experience and publication, ranging from $0.10 to $1 per word.

Are there jobs that pay you to travel?

Flight attendants, cruise ship employees, tour guides, and destination photographers are just a few examples.

How much do travel writers earn?

Payment depends on experience and publication, with newer writers earning around $0.10 per word and established professionals earning up to $1 per word.

How do you write a great travel article?

Choose an engaging topic, research thoroughly, use descriptive language and storytelling techniques, include practical information, and edit carefully before submitting.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to get paid to travel, several opportunities are available. As a travel blogger, you can earn money through advertising and sponsored content, partnerships with tourism boards and travel-related brands, or by offering additional services like public speaking or group tours.

Freelance writing is another option for travelers looking to make money. By submitting articles to popular travel writing platforms and pitching successfully, you can turn your passion for exploring into a lucrative career. Additionally, monetizing photography while traveling is an excellent income source.

Getting paid to travel requires hard work and dedication, but it’s possible if you know where to look. Consider these options as starting points for turning your love of adventure into a profitable venture!