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Work and Wander: 6 Travel Jobs That Pay Well

Looking for work-and-travel opportunities?

There are many travel jobs out there, and contrary to popular belief, they offer stability and a decent income. The trick is to find a job that enables you to do what you love most, whether it’s teaching, writing, or simply communicating with others.

So, let’s look at some travel jobs that pay well.


1. Tour guiding

If you have a passion for history, adventure, or food, you might want to explore job opportunities as a tour guide. This not only allows you to travel to different countries, but also gives you an opportunity to share your knowledge with others.

photo of woman sitting on boat spreading her arms
Photo by Te lensFix on Pexels.com

According to ZipRecruiter, international tour guides get $19 on average per hour, and some make more than $30 per hour. The pay will depend on your skills, location, and experience. If decide to go freelance, you can set your own prices.

Another thing to consider is your niche. For example, if you offer tours with a very specific theme, you can charge more as no one else offers the same thing.

Here are some niches to consider:

  • Coffee culture
  • Street art
  • Offbeat neighbourhoods
  • Dark history
  • Bike tours
  • Hiking, rafting, and other outdoor activities
  • Market tours

It’s important to check the requirements for becoming a tour guide in your chosen location. You might need to apply for a warrant or take a local course.

2. Travel blogging

Travel and tourism opportunities abroad are vast, but you might be looking for something that gives you more control over your schedule.

Travel blogging has become very popular in recent years, and many have turned this into a full-time job.

ethnic young woman using laptop while having tasty beverage in modern street cafe
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

Whether you enjoy writing, taking photos, or creating videos, you can set up your own blog or social media page and monetize your content.

For example, you could make money through ads, working with brands on sponsored posts, or affiliate marketing.

It’s hard to say how much you can make as different factors come into play, including your site’s traffic and niche. However, as a blogger, you are able to create different income streams to maximize your profits.

For instance, you might even create and sell travel guides, or offer itinerary planning services.

3. Cruise ship jobs

If you want a more stable job with a steady income, but still have the opportunity to travel the world, you can explore cruise ship jobs.

white ship
Photo by Maurício Mascaro on Pexels.com

The cruise industry offers various options. You could work in hospitality and entertainment, or join the medical or casino team.

The most lucrative positions are: 

  • Executive Chef (more than $85,000 a year); 
  • Cruise Director (more than $87,000 a year);
  • Chief Purser (more than $124,000 a year). 

Working on a cruise ship gives you the opportunity to travel to different countries. Plus, you can choose a position that interests you most.

4. Travel nursing

Medical education opens up many opportunities for individuals who love to travel. For example, you could work with international non-profits, or as a resident nurse at a resort.

Travel nurses usually work from thirteen to sixteen weeks in specific locations, and an average of $60 per hour. 

5. Digital nomadism

Many jobs do not require working at an office. Copywriters, web developers, SEO experts, graphic designer, and content marketers can work from anywhere, as long as they have a stable internet connection.

photo of man using laptop
Photo by Canva Studio on Pexels.com

As a digital nomad, you get to do your work in different countries. You’ll just need to invest in a good laptop, and make sure you’re available during your clients’ working hours.

6. Teaching English 

People from different countries want to become fluent in English, whether for business, studying, or traveling. That’s why teachers of English are in high demand.

a female teacher tutoring her male student | teaching English is one of the travel jobs that pay well
Photo by Thirdman on Pexels.com

While it’s possible to teach English online, many schools and individuals prefer face-to-face learning. Therefore, you might consider teaching English at a school abroad.

A TEFL qualification is a must-have if you want to work in countries like the UAE, Japan, or Saudi Arabia, where salaries range from $3000-$6500 per month.


This post might contain affiliate links. This means that I may receive a commission on any purchases made through the links in the post, at no extra cost to you.

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