If you’re passionate about traveling and wondering what could be even better than that, the answer is simple: earning money while you explore the world. Yes, it’s entirely possible. Here are 21 ways you can make money while traveling, whether through freelance work or a traditional job.

Traveling is more than just a hobby—it’s a sign of intelligence, a way to embrace new cultures, and a path to personal growth. It allows you to learn, evolve, and experience life in ways that are beyond ordinary dreams. It has been celebrated by renowned artists, writers, and philosophers like the Dalai Lama, Emile Zola, Mark Twain, Ray Bradbury, and many others.

So, what could be better than traveling? Earning money while doing it! This means finding ways to fund your travels through various activities or jobs. Whether you’re backpacking, flying, cruising, or using alternative forms of transportation like van or motorcycle-sharing, you can self-finance your journey and even make some extra cash—or, in some cases, turn it into a full-time lifestyle.

Making money while traveling is not only possible but also achievable through different avenues. However, to make it work, some preparation is necessary. It requires a mindset shift, careful financial planning, and the advice of those who have already succeeded in this lifestyle. Experts suggest clearing any debts, building a financial cushion, creating a budget (with a little extra for unexpected costs), securing travel and health insurance, staying flexible, and taking time to enjoy the journey.

Here are 21 ways to make money while traveling:

1. Become a Successful Influencer

It sounds easier than it seems, but it’s clear that there are many influencers who have managed—after time, effort, dedication, and possibly a bit of luck—to make money traveling and even turn their travels into a way of life and a livelihood.

Take, for example, a young American who traveled around the world in less than 10 years, taking 1,458 flights, 1,117 buses, and a few more trains.

In his case, he managed to self-fund his travels primarily through social media. His success on Snapchat helped him attract his first sponsors—they paid him more than €4,000 to cover the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil—after which he launched his YouTube channel.

There he didn’t get paid anything for his first 300 videos, but later earned $10,000 (more than €9,200 at current exchange rates) for one in Bangkok that went viral and ended up generating between $20,000 and $40,000 (€18,500 to €37,000) a month from his Facebook and YouTube posts.

In addition to his personal videos, he charges the brands he works with between $15,000 and $30,000 (€14,000 and €28,000) per video and is looking for additional sources of income.

2. Work as a Digital Nomad

If you’re looking to earn money while traveling, a popular option is to become a digital nomad, that is, adopt a lifestyle where you can work from wherever you want , something that is increasingly accessible thanks to technological advances and the possibility of remote work visas.

You’ll have to face challenges such as the lack of routine, constant changes, and the need for discipline and balance, but it will allow you to visit dozens of countries and enjoy incredible experiences, as told firsthand by Katie Macleod, who camperized a van to travel by road in the middle of the pandemic and visited 79 destinations.

Some companies have programs that allow this, such as Revolut, which grants 60 days a year to work from other parts of the world. On the other hand, foreign teleworkers can apply for visas and residency in Spain, supported by the new startup law.

3. Freelance on Specialized Platforms

Freelancing can be an excellent way to fund your travels. Websites like Prolific, Jovoto, and Workana offer freelance job opportunities, although competition can be fierce at first. As you build your reputation, you’ll be able to earn more and choose the jobs that align with your skills.

4. Become a Tour Guide

If you’re passionate about history, art, or architecture, becoming a tour guide could be a dream job. You can work independently, offer free tours for tips, or get hired by a tour company. It’s a great way to explore new places and share your knowledge with others.

5. Fly as a Flight Attendant

Being a flight attendant is one of the most straightforward jobs that pays you to travel. Depending on the airline and country, flight attendants can earn a decent salary, along with the perk of free travel. In the U.S., some attendants earn up to $100,000 a year, working around 80 hours a month.

6. Work on a Cruise Ship

Cruise ships offer a chance to visit exotic locations while covering travel costs. While the hours can be long and the pay modest, perks like free accommodation, meals, and access to onboard facilities make it a popular option for travelers.

7. Become a Travel Correspondent

Some media outlets hire travel correspondents to visit different places and share their experiences. For example, The New York Times created a position for a travel correspondent to cover its “52 Places to Go” feature. This is a competitive field, but it offers a unique opportunity to travel for a living.

8. Start a Travel Blog or Guide

Travel bloggers and guidebook writers get paid to travel, although it’s not always as glamorous as it sounds. It requires hard work, long hours, and dedication, but successful bloggers can earn six-figure salaries. If you love writing and travel, this could be your ideal career.

9. Travel as a Photographer

If you have a passion for photography, you can combine your skills with travel. Many photographers, especially in destination wedding photography, charge hefty fees for each event. It’s a competitive field, but with the right equipment and a solid portfolio, it can be a lucrative way to see the world.

10. Teach Languages

Teaching languages is another great way to make money while traveling. You can offer private lessons, work at a language school, or even teach online. Demand for Spanish teachers is particularly high in countries like the U.S., Australia, and the U.K.

11. Monetize Your Skills

If you have a specific skill, like playing an instrument, designing websites, or dancing, you can create online courses or offer workshops. This allows you to teach others while exploring new places.

12. Offer Services at Hostels

Many hostels hire travelers to offer services like yoga classes, cooking workshops, or massages in exchange for accommodation or a small fee. It’s a great way to meet people and travel on a budget.

13. Give Specialized Lectures

If you’re an expert in a certain field or a great public speaker, consider giving lectures. While it may start slow, public speaking engagements at schools, companies, or conferences can eventually provide recognition and income.

14. Work for the UN

If you’re passionate about making a difference, consider working for the United Nations. The UN offers job opportunities around the world in fields like education, social services, and logistics. It’s an excellent way to travel while contributing to global development.

15. Be a Stagehand

Stagehands who work on concerts and theater tours often travel as part of their job. It’s a great way to explore new places while getting paid.

16. Take Advantage of Seasonal Work

Seasonal jobs, like working as a camp counselor, ski instructor, or farmworker, can help fund your travels. In some cases, these jobs also offer free accommodation and meals.

17. Work as an Au Pair

If you’re open to living with a family, being an au pair can be an affordable way to travel. You’ll care for children in exchange for room, board, and a stipend. Websites like Au Pair World can help you find a family to work with.

18. Trade in Foreign Goods

You can earn money by importing and selling unique products from different countries. From Turkish ceramics to Italian leather, you can sell these items online or to friends and family.

19. Work for a Travel Insurance Company

Some travel insurance companies pay you to travel the world while writing blogs and reviewing insurance plans. For example, Insuranks recently offered €80,000 for someone to travel internationally for a year and write about their experiences.

20. Volunteer on Farms Worldwide

Through programs like WWOOF (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms), you can work on farms in exchange for free accommodation and meals. It’s an excellent way to travel cheaply while learning about organic farming.

21. Rent Property on Airbnb

If you own property, you can rent it out on Airbnb and live off the rental income. While it may not involve travel in the traditional sense, it’s a way to make money while being able to travel yourself.

With these 21 opportunities, you can turn your dream of traveling into a sustainable lifestyle. It may take time, effort, and creativity, but the world is full of possibilities to explore while earning money along the way.