Best Jobs That Lets You See The World
April 26, 2025
Love traveling but need to keep earning? Here are 10 jobs that let you explore the world while earning a steady income:
- **Salary**: $12–$16/hour (entry-level), up to $7,083/month (senior roles)
- **Perks**: Flexible schedules and full remote setup.
- **Skills**: Communication, problem-solving, and tech proficiency.
| Job Type | Salary Range (USD) | Schedule Flexibility | Travel Opportunities | Required Skills/Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight Attendant | $67,130–$111,430/year | Medium | High (layovers, free flights) | FAA certification, first aid |
| Teaching English Abroad | $1,700–$6,000/month | Low-Medium | High (cultural immersion) | TEFL certification |
| Remote Freelancing | $40,000–$120,000/year | High | High (work anywhere) | Varies (e.g., coding, marketing) |
| Social Media Manager | $40,000–$160,000/year | Medium | Medium-High (content creation) | Writing, analytics, strategy |
| Travel Blogger/Vlogger | $5,000–$24,000/month | High | Very High (sponsored trips) | SEO, photography, videography |
| Virtual Assistant | $32,175–$72,270/year | High | High (global clients) | Organization, digital tools |
| Cruise Ship Jobs | $16,622–$20,101/year | Low-Medium | High (multiple destinations) | Hospitality or maritime experience |
| Tour Guide/Adventure | $40,280–$113,900/year | Medium | High (iconic destinations) | First aid, local knowledge |
| International Aid Work | $91,000–$147,500/year | Low | Medium-High (disaster zones) | Degrees, project management |
| Remote Customer Service | $12–$16/hour (entry-level) | High | Medium (remote setup) | Communication, tech proficiency |
These jobs offer flexibility, steady income, and incredible travel perks. Choose one that matches your skills and start your journey today!
When evaluating travel jobs, focus on factors like income, qualifications, visa requirements, schedule flexibility, and opportunities for advancement.
Income Potential and Stability
Some travel roles come with attractive financial perks. For example, au pairs often receive free room and board in addition to their salary [1]. These benefits can help you determine which jobs align with your financial goals and travel plans.
Required Qualifications
Many travel jobs require specific skills or credentials. These might include academic degrees, technical expertise (like HTML, JavaScript, and CSS for developers), language skills, or industry-related experience. For instance, virtual assistants can earn around $26 per hour, depending on their expertise [1].
Visa and Work Permit Considerations
Legal requirements, such as visas and work permits, are just as important as income or skills. U.S. citizens, for example, need to familiarize themselves with the visa and work permit rules of their destination.
"Getting a work visa doesn't need to be a painful process; in fact, you'll find yourself working your dream job abroad in no time! However, there is some preparation involved, so make sure to do your research (reading this article is a great first step!)." [2]
Some countries, like Singapore, offer working holiday visas for students and recent graduates. These visas often lead to sponsorship opportunities. Notably, about one-third of Singapore's residents are expatriates [2].
Schedule Flexibility and Location Independence
Your level of control over your schedule and location can vary widely based on the job. Below is a comparison of common travel job setups:
| Job Type | Schedule Control | Location Freedom | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remote Programmer | High | Complete | $82,234 |
| Flight Attendant | Medium | Limited | $86,585 |
| English Teacher | High | Location-Based | Up to $72,000 |
| Virtual Assistant | High | Complete | $54,080 |
Career Growth and Legitimacy
Look for jobs that offer clear paths for advancement and always verify the legitimacy of potential employers. Fields like public relations and content marketing not only provide growth opportunities but also offer competitive starting salaries, such as $92,905 and $73,000 respectively [1]. Some roles, like flight attendants, may require starting with domestic assignments before moving on to international routes [1].
Blogging and video creation offer a way to combine your love for travel with earning potential. These roles allow you to explore the world while generating income from various sources.
As a travel content creator, you can work from virtually any location - whether it's a cozy café in Bali or a mountain lodge in Colorado. The hours are flexible, giving you the freedom to set your own schedule.
To succeed in travel content creation, you’ll need a mix of skills:
| Skill | Purpose | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Content Writing | Crafting blog posts and social media captions | High |
| SEO | Driving traffic to your content | High |
| Photography/Videography | Producing high-quality visual content | High |
| Social Media Management | Growing and engaging your audience | Medium |
| Email Marketing | Building a loyal community | Medium |
While formal certifications aren’t required, taking courses in SEO and content creation can sharpen your skills and give you a competitive edge. Strong SEO knowledge is especially important for reaching a larger audience.
Your income as a travel content creator depends on your audience size and how you monetize your platform. Here’s a breakdown of common revenue streams:
| Revenue Source | Monthly Earnings |
|---|---|
| Affiliate Marketing | $5,000 - $24,000 |
| Ads | $2,500 - $9,500 |
| Digital Products | $1,500 - $6,500 |
This career comes with plenty of travel opportunities, including:
For example, a successful blogger earned $40,106 in December 2022 through multiple income streams, while their site saw over 205,000 page views that month [3]. This shows how travel content creation can become a full-time career.
To boost your success, focus on creating SEO-friendly content. Target keywords with high search volume and low competition. Tools like Canva can simplify creating digital products, and always disclose sponsored content as required [3].
Next, let’s dive into another exciting career path: online freelance work.
Online freelancing has become a popular way to earn money while working from anywhere. The rise of remote work has opened up more opportunities for digital nomads to thrive.
As a freelancer, you set your own hours and pick your workspace. Whether you're writing code from a beachside villa in Bali or designing websites at a café in Paris, all you need is a reliable internet connection. This freedom makes it easier to balance work with travel, creating endless possibilities for how and where you work.
Certain skills are especially sought after in the freelance world, offering strong earning potential for those who master them. Here's a look at some of the top skills and their average annual income:
| Skill | Average Annual Income |
|---|---|
| Software Development | $85,000 - $120,000 |
| UX/UI Design | $70,000 - $115,000 |
| Content Writing | $40,000 - $80,000 |
| Digital Marketing | $60,000 - $100,000 |
| Virtual Project Management | $70,000 - $110,000 |
In addition to technical expertise, freelancers succeed by honing skills like time management, clear communication, and staying motivated without direct supervision.
Freelance income varies widely depending on your skills and the clients you work with. Many freelancers make around $90,000 per year, with monthly earnings ranging from a few hundred dollars to over $10,000 [4].
Freelancing offers several perks for those who love to travel:
The shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic has only increased the demand for freelance opportunities [5].
For beginners, it’s helpful to focus on building a specific skill that’s in demand. Some easy-to-start options include social media management, graphic design, and copywriting [5].
Social media management is a job that lets you work from anywhere while creating and overseeing online content for brands.
Since most tasks are online (around 90% [6]), all you need is a laptop and reliable internet to manage social media accounts from any location. This setup makes it easy to structure your workday around different time zones or local activities.
"With the right attitude and skills, this is one of the best jobs that will allow you to travel and earn money." - Fulltime Nomad [6]
Now, let’s look at the core skills needed for success in this field.
While formal certifications aren’t required, successful social media managers often excel in these areas:
Earnings depend on experience and expertise. Here’s a general breakdown of salaries for remote social media managers:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | $40,000 - $60,000 |
| Mid-Career (3-6 years) | $60,000 - $90,000 |
| Senior Level (7+ years) | $90,000 - $160,000 |
On average, total compensation can reach $104,596, with base salaries hovering around $89,221 [7]. Professionals with a strong background in brand marketing, analytics, and community engagement often earn on the higher end of the scale.
This role offers several perks for those who love to travel:
Social media management is ideal for people who want to balance work with extended travel, allowing them to explore new places without compromising on delivering results for clients.
Virtual assistant (VA) work offers the perfect mix of professional growth and the freedom to travel. This role involves handling various digital tasks that can be done from anywhere with a stable internet connection.
Being a VA means you can set your own hours and work from virtually any location - whether it’s a beachside café in Bali or a co-working space in Berlin. This flexibility opens doors to exciting global experiences.
"Having the opportunity to work from anywhere gave me the freedom to live life on my own terms. I can work from home, from a coffee shop, from a different city, or even a foreign country!" - Jess Glynn, Author of The Gap Year Guru [9]
Virtual assistants need a diverse range of skills to meet client demands. Here’s a breakdown:
| Skill Category | Examples of Proficiencies |
|---|---|
| Core Software | Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Excel, Google Sheets |
| Digital Marketing | WordPress, Buffer, Tailwind |
| Creative Tools | Adobe Photoshop, Canva |
| Soft Skills | Self-discipline, Communication, Time Management |
Earnings for virtual assistants depend on experience and location:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | $32,175 |
| Average | $41,600 |
| Experienced | Up to $72,270 |
Geography also plays a role in pay. For example, virtual assistants in South Dakota earn an average of $64,000 annually, while those in Washington state average $50,503 [8]. Combine these earnings with the flexibility to travel, and it’s easy to see why VA work is appealing.
One of the most exciting aspects of VA work is the ability to travel while earning:
To make the most of these travel opportunities, focus on building high-demand skills like graphic design, WordPress management, or video editing. These specialized abilities can command rates between $10 and $35 per hour [9], giving you more financial flexibility to explore the world.
Teaching English abroad offers a steady income and a chance to dive into new cultures, making it a great option for travelers looking for meaningful work.
To teach English overseas, most positions require a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. The best part? You don’t need any prior teaching experience to get started. According to The TEFL Org, which has trained over 185,000 teachers:
"You don't need any previous experience or qualifications to start training as a TEFL teacher. All you need is fluency in English and the enthusiasm to learn and we'll guide you through the rest!" [10]
Earnings depend on the region and your experience. Here’s a breakdown of salaries in some of the highest-paying locations:
| Region | Monthly Salary | Extra Perks |
|---|---|---|
| UAE | $3,500-$5,500 | Tax-free income |
| Japan | $2,200-$5,000 | Healthcare coverage |
| South Korea | $1,700-$2,650 | Free housing, airfare |
| Vietnam | $1,200-$2,100 | Low cost of living |
Many roles also come with extras like furnished housing, flight reimbursements, and health insurance [11].
Different regions bring unique experiences for English teachers. For example, teaching in South Korea opens doors to exploring Asia, while working in Morocco makes trips to Europe and North Africa more accessible [12].
"Teaching abroad is your golden ticket to not only immerse yourself in a new culture, but to also bring English instruction to remote communities and cities that might not have much exposure to fluent speakers." - Raquel Thoesen, Meaningful Travel Insider [12]
The job market is promising - 80% of The TEFL Org graduates land positions within two months of certification [10]. This quick turnaround makes teaching English abroad a practical choice for those eager to work and travel.
In places like the UAE, teachers benefit from high, tax-free salaries and a modern lifestyle, while Vietnam offers lower wages but much cheaper living costs, allowing for better savings. These factors make teaching English overseas a top pick for travel-focused careers.
If you love exploring new places and sharing that passion with others, working as a tour or adventure leader could be the perfect fit. This role allows you to travel to incredible destinations while guiding groups and creating memorable experiences.
While not always required, having these qualifications can give you an edge:
These skills and certifications can directly influence how much you earn in this field.
Earnings for tour guides depend on experience and location. Here’s a look at some of the top-paying areas:
| Location | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Northwestern Idaho (Nonmetropolitan area) | $113,900 |
| Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC-NC | $72,690 |
| Wyoming | $61,410 |
The national average salary is $40,280, with experienced guides earning over $58,620 annually [15].
Tour and adventure leaders can find themselves in some of the world’s most breathtaking locations. Examples include:
From cultural tours to outdoor adventures like kayaking, cycling, and hiking, the possibilities are endless. Destinations range from Antarctica to Cambodia, Iran to Australia, and nearly anywhere else that’s safe for travel [14].
Working on a cruise ship lets you earn a steady paycheck while exploring multiple destinations. Cruise lines hire staff for roles in hospitality, entertainment, and maritime operations.
To work on a cruise ship, you’ll need specific qualifications [16]:
Salaries depend on the position and cruise line, but perks like free accommodation, meals, and medical care are often included [18].
| Position | Monthly Earnings |
|---|---|
| Chief Engineer | $9,000 |
| Ship's Doctor | $9,750 |
| Cruise Director | $4,900 |
| Chef | $3,650 |
| Dancer | $3,100 |
| Bartender | $2,000 |
Median annual salaries for major cruise lines in 2018 were:
One of the biggest perks of cruise ship jobs is the chance to travel. Routes often include:
Many staff members can also join passenger tours at no cost, experiencing exciting excursions at various ports [19].
"No other job offers travel to such a variety of places, countries, climates and continents as cruise ship jobs offer."
- cruiseshipjob.com [17]
Keep in mind, your primary responsibility is work, and delays can lead to disciplinary action. Travel is a bonus, not the main focus.
Next, we’ll look at another career that blends service and adventure.
A career as a flight attendant offers a unique mix of travel and steady income. It combines customer service skills with the opportunity to explore destinations around the globe, all while working in the aviation industry.
To work as a flight attendant in the U.S., you’ll need:
Airlines typically provide in-depth training programs that cover safety procedures, emergency protocols, and customer service standards. While not required, knowing a foreign language can make you a more competitive candidate in this field.
As of May 2024, the median annual salary for flight attendants was $67,130. Some states offer even higher wages, with Connecticut leading at $111,430 and Washington at $98,930 [20]. Below are the top-paying metropolitan areas:
| City | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Seattle, WA | $99,440 |
| San Francisco, CA | $92,280 |
| San Diego, CA | $91,420 |
| Tampa, FL | $83,660 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $80,400 |
In addition to competitive pay, flight attendants enjoy extensive travel perks.
This career provides travel benefits that few jobs can match. Emirates Flight Attendant David Soares describes the experience [21]:
"One day I'm enjoying sunny beaches in Mauritius and two days later I might be exploring the canals in Amsterdam or photographing giraffes in Kenya."
Still, the lifestyle has its challenges. Alaska Airlines Flight Attendant Rea Mitchell highlights one downside [21]:
"It can be extremely lonely at times, I often spend my layovers in my hotel rooms, as going out every layover can get pretty expensive."
The time available for exploration depends on flight schedules and layovers. Some layovers allow for sightseeing, while others are shorter. Many airlines also offer benefits like discounted or free flights, making personal travel more affordable during off-duty periods.
International aid work offers a chance to travel while making a meaningful impact on communities across the globe. This career combines humanitarian efforts with opportunities to explore new places and engage with diverse cultures.
To succeed in this field, you'll need the right education and skills. Here’s what’s typically required for international aid roles:
Practical skills can also boost your chances of landing a role, such as:
If you're looking to build your knowledge, platforms like Coursera and edX offer courses tailored to humanitarian work [22].
| Position Level | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (25th percentile) | $91,000 | $7,583 |
| Mid-Level (Average) | $98,799 | $8,233 |
| Senior Level (75th percentile) | $112,000 | $9,333 |
| Top Earners (90th percentile) | $147,500 | $12,291 |
This line of work often involves travel to areas in urgent need of assistance, which can be both challenging and rewarding. Typical experiences include:
While the workdays can be long and demanding, the chance to make a difference and connect with people worldwide makes this career path deeply fulfilling for those committed to humanitarian efforts. It’s a unique way to combine travel with a purpose.
Remote customer service jobs are a great way to work from anywhere while earning a stable income. These roles are especially suited for travelers, offering the freedom to work on your own terms.
Remote customer service positions are perfect for those who need flexible schedules. Companies like Liveops have introduced virtual call centers where independent contractors can set their own hours [25]. This setup allows you to:
Most remote customer service jobs don’t require a college degree [24]. However, you’ll need to have certain skills to succeed:
Many companies provide training on their products, making it easier to get started even if you’re not highly experienced [24].
| Position Type | Pay Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | $12–13/hour |
| Mid-Level | $14–16/hour |
| Technical Support | $3,500–4,442/month |
| Senior Support Engineer | $5,000–7,083/month |
These roles offer competitive pay and the chance to work while exploring new places.
Remote customer service jobs are ideal for those who want to travel without giving up steady employment. Studies show these roles often lead to greater job satisfaction compared to traditional office jobs [25].
To make the most of this lifestyle, look for companies that:
Here's a breakdown of travel-friendly careers, focusing on earning potential, schedule control, required skills, and travel opportunities.
| Job Type | Annual Salary Range (USD) | Schedule Control | Required Skills | Travel Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Blog/Vlog Creation | $18/1,000 views [26] | High | Content creation, photography, editing | Very High |
| Online Freelance Work | $40,000 – $80,000 | High | Varies by specialty | High |
| Social Media Management | $60,000 – $100,000 | Medium | Platform expertise, analytics | Medium-High |
| Teaching English Overseas | $40,000 – $90,000 | Low-Medium | TEFL certification | High |
Different roles demand varying levels of expertise. For instance, technical roles like software development or cybersecurity command salaries between $85,000–$150,000 but require specific certifications. On the other hand, entry-level roles such as content creation provide location independence with fewer qualifications.
Jobs with high schedule control let you:
Remote positions in tech and digital marketing offer the most freedom, while jobs like teaching English overseas might stick to a more structured schedule, even if travel is part of the package.
Content creation stands out for its extensive travel opportunities. Teaching English and freelancing also offer chances for cultural immersion, though they may come with varying degrees of flexibility.
Experience in these roles can lead to higher income and open doors to advanced positions, especially in areas like digital marketing. Over time, these opportunities can significantly enhance both your career and travel lifestyle.
If you're ready to dive into a travel-focused career, here's how to begin.
Start by obtaining certifications specific to your chosen field. For teaching English abroad, a 120-hour TEFL certification is essential (Global TEFL offers this for $90 [27]). If you're venturing into adventure tourism, consider certifications like Wilderness First Aid, SCUBA Diving Instruction, or Swift Water Rescue.
Look for travel-friendly roles on platforms like Wanderjobs.com and Indeed.com. Use filters such as Remote, Location Independent, Travel Required, International, or Digital Nomad to refine your search and focus on relevant opportunities.
Sharpen the skills that align with your career goals. Here’s a quick guide:
| Career Path | Key Skills | Suggested Tools/Training |
|---|---|---|
| Content Creation | Photography, Video Editing | Adobe Creative Suite |
| Remote Work | Digital Communication, Project Management | Asana, Slack |
| Adventure Tourism | First Aid, Language Proficiency | Red Cross Certification |
| Teaching | Classroom Management, ESL Techniques | TEFL Course |
Before you take the leap, make sure your finances are in order:
Make sure these documents are in order before you start your journey:
Taking these steps will set you up for success in your travel career. The path requires preparation and determination, but with the right approach, you’ll be ready to take on the world.
Ready to kickstart your journey toward a location-independent lifestyle? Here's how to move forward. Start by creating a profile on Nomad Gossip Magazine. This platform connects you with experienced digital nomads and offers tools to explore remote work opportunities. You'll find detailed insights on living costs, internet quality, and safety for various destinations. Use it to confirm your career goals and validate opportunities before diving in.
Make sure your chosen career path aligns with your skills and is practical for a travel-friendly lifestyle:
Depending on your career choice, certain certifications can help you stand out. Here's a quick look:
| Career Path | Certification | Average Cost | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Teaching | TEFL (120 hours) | $300 | 3-4 months |
| Adventure Tourism | WWOOF Membership | $40/year | Immediate |
| Work Exchange | Workaway Account | $45/year | Immediate |
Work-exchange programs are a budget-friendly way to gain experience and expand your network. Build a portfolio of work samples or teaching experience, and consider starting part-time while keeping your current job. This approach ensures a smoother transition into a travel-focused career. Once you've earned the credentials you need, you'll be ready to take the next step confidently.
To thrive in a job that lets you travel extensively, having the right skills is key. Adaptability and strong communication skills are essential for navigating new environments and collaborating with diverse teams. Proficiency in foreign languages can also be a significant advantage, especially for roles in international settings.
For digital nomad-style careers, technical skills like writing, graphic design, digital marketing, photography, or programming are highly valuable. Strong time management and organizational abilities will help you stay productive while on the move. While certifications aren't always required, completing courses in your chosen field or obtaining a TEFL certification (for teaching English abroad) can boost your credibility and open doors to new opportunities.
Finding the right travel-friendly job starts with understanding your skills, interests, and how you want to balance work and travel. Consider roles like becoming a flight attendant for global travel opportunities, teaching English abroad (with a TEFL certification), or working as a remote freelancer in fields like writing, graphic design, or social media management. These careers cater to a variety of skill sets and offer flexibility for a nomadic lifestyle.
Think about what excites you most - whether it’s exploring new cultures, working independently, or helping others plan their adventures. Research the qualifications needed for each role, such as certifications or building an online portfolio, and take small steps to transition into your dream travel-friendly career. With the right preparation, you can combine work and wanderlust seamlessly!
Preparing for a travel-focused career requires careful planning to ensure both financial stability and smooth logistics.
Financially, start by building a savings cushion to cover initial expenses and unexpected costs during your travels. Research jobs that allow you to work remotely or on the go, such as freelancing, teaching, or working in tourism, and ensure they provide a sustainable income.
Logistically, streamline your life for mobility by minimizing possessions, keeping essential documents (like passports and visas) up to date, and researching travel insurance options. Verify the legitimacy of potential employers or clients to avoid scams, and plan ahead for reliable internet access if your work depends on being online.
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