In this article:
- 1. Tattoo Artists
- 2. Musicians/DJs
- 3. Photographers/Videographers
- 4. Street Artists
- 5. Teachers
- 6. Bartenders
- 7. Yoga or Fitness Instructors
- 8. Adventure Guides
- 9. Delivery Drivers or Couriers
- 10. Artisans at Local Markets
- Closing Thoughts
The idea of traveling the world while working is appealing to many people. Thankfully, due to different opportunities, it’s no longer just a dream.
Thousands of people throughout the world are living the freelancer lifestyle. They don’t necessarily stay in one place too long, nor do they get attached to a single profession.
Some crafts require years of practice, discipline, and training. On the other hand, there are those that are surprisingly easy to start, sometimes requiring as little as a license or a short course.
One thing in common among these professions, though, is the fact that you have the freedom to immerse yourself in local cultures while having enough money to travel.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular professions for you to consider.
1. Tattoo Artists
Tattooing is one of the most in-demand artistic trades worldwide, with some exceptions in certain countries due to religious beliefs or associations with negative activities.
Nevertheless, in most of the world, tattoo parlors welcome guest artists to offer something new to the local customers.
Ideally, this salon should have a streamlined scheduling appointment system, which allows you to focus on the artistry itself rather than handling customer service (booking appointments, dealing with no-shows, sending reminders, and so on).
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- Why the gig works: Tattoos are a universal art, and fresh styles bring attention from the local customers.
- What you need: A strong portfolio to back up your craft, a health and safety certification (check specifics in each country), and networking skills.
- Pro tip: Utilize social media to showcase your portfolio and reach out to as many local parlors as you can directly with your proposal.
2. Musicians/DJs
Music is a universal language, and few things come close to playing live in front of an audience that enjoys your work in terms of satisfaction.
You can expect to find gigs at various tourist towns, bars, hostels, or luxury resorts. Besides, the gig also usually covers room rent fees and meals.
- Why the gig works: Entertainment venues are happy to invite performers, particularly in touristy areas.
- What you need: Portable equipment to play live sets and a list of versatile music to connect with diverse audiences.
- Pro tip: Ideally, you want to start with small venues and build your way from there, with better-paid gigs in the future.
3. Photographers/Videographers
Those with an eye for photography or videography can treat the world as their canvas. The earning options are not countless, but there is plenty to choose from, including travel portraits, promotional content for businesses, or even wedding photography
You can also promote your work on social media and network there to make some extra money while enjoying your travels.
- Why the gig works: People want photos and videos not just for personal use but for posting them on social media.
- What you need: A good camera, editing software, and a portfolio to show your previous work.
- Pro tip: Offer affordable quick shots in scenic locations and rely on word of mouth to spread among tourists.
4. Street Artists
Busking or graffiti shouldn’t be where street art ends. Your options range from selling small handmade pieces or painting murals for local ventures.
It’s also common to see artists creating caricatures of tourists and selling them on the spot. The job lets you express creativity and connect with the locals.
- Why the gig works: Bustling touristy areas often come with opportunities to encourage creative artists to showcase their work.
- What you need: Artistic skills, portable materials for work, and awareness of local laws.
- Pro tip: Check if a city has a license that opens opportunities to work in prime locations.
5. Teachers
Teaching while traveling is one of the most versatile options. One of the first things that comes to mind is teaching English, especially if you are a native speaker.
In places like Asia, it’s common to find work in local schools, even in remote areas. And it’s much easier to teach in person rather than remotely.
Of course, the gig shouldn’t be limited to just English or other languages. So long as you have the knowledge to share, you can expect to find work.
- Why the gig works: Most countries value education, and native speakers and other professionals are in high demand.
- What you need: Certification to show your credentials as a teacher.
- Pro tip: You can look for extra hustle by running online classes or one-on-one teaching in addition to the main gig.
6. Bartenders
As far as easier jobs go, bartending is one of the best options. If you are in a new location and show off your skills, getting work shouldn’t be a problem.
Beach bars, upscale lounges, and other touristy locations hire seasonal staff on a regular basis, including bartenders.
- Why the gig works: Good bartenders can work worldwide since these skills are transferable.
- What you need: Drink-making knowledge, an outgoing personality, and no problem working late.
- Pro tip: Self-teaching is an option, but consider taking a short bartending course to become even better.
7. Yoga or Fitness Instructors
Wellness tourism is booming across the globe. As a certified yoga or fitness instructor, you can expect to find work in resort and retreat centers.
Some instructors also want to maximize their income by running pop-up classes or multi-day workshops.
- Why the gig works: Health and wellness have universal appeal.
- What you need: Certifications and a desire to teach and help others improve.
- Pro tip: Collaborate with local community spaces and share revenue with them.
8. Adventure Guides
Those passionate about outdoor activities should consider a career as an adventure guide. Opportunities range from surfing and diving to hiking and biking. One of the downsides is that becoming a guide in many locations requires certifications.
However, you get to enjoy meeting adventurous people, working in stunning places, and making money.
- Why the gig works: Tourists want guidance from experts to feel safe and absorb interesting information.
- What you need: Specialized training and certifications.
- Pro tip: Start as an assistant and learn the ropes on-site.
9. Delivery Drivers or Couriers
Some freelancers are looking for little commitment when traveling. Working as a delivery driver or courier is a perfect choice.
Driving a car, bike, or scooter and getting goods delivered have never been easier thanks to dedicated apps. And you earn money without committing to long-term contracts.
- Why the gig works: Low barrier to entry and a flexible schedule.
- What you need: A smartphone and a driving license.
- Pro tip: This gig could be a side hustle to use downtime between other work you do.
10. Artisans at Local Markets
If you have a knack for creating handmade goods, consider selling them at local markets. It will net you money and help connect with local communities.
While local artisans may be reluctant to partner with you due to competition, some might be more inclined to collaborate with you. Learn about local demand and change your strategy depending on the insights you gain.
- Why the gig works: Tourists love authentic handmade goods.
- What you need: Crafting skills and creativity to keep up with the demand and trends.
- Pro tip: Source local materials to keep costs low and help local suppliers.
Closing Thoughts
Traveling freelancing is not just about making money. It’s also about integrating your work into your journey while experiencing the best that different locations have to offer.
Some professions require effort to master, but there are others with less demand. Ultimately, the focus should be on matching your skills and interests with available gigs.
The world is full of places to explore and opportunities to make money. Mixing delicious drinks at a beach resort, guiding tourists on hikes, or leaving your mark as an artist—the world is your oyster, so get out there and make memories while working as a traveling freelancer.
One more thing...
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Our team of "Gig Hunters"—together with the power of A.I.—sends you high-quality leads every weekday on autopilot. You can learn more or sign up here. Happy Freelancing!
