For most of us travel-hungry folk, the thought of a job that includes the occasional business trip already gets our blood pumping. However, when the role description screams ‘come, see the world’, it’s the ultimate dream come true. If wanderlust has taken over your heart and mind as well, it might be time to take the plunge and make a change. With one of these unique careers to send you packing, we dare you to finally stop dreaming and start doing. To help you find the one that’s right for you, we’ve compiled a list of the best jobs that involve travelling.
1. Travel Blogger
Blogging for a living is a dream come true for many. After all, what’s not to love about making a living from writing about the things you love while seeing the world? A blogger’s income commonly comes from things like advertising, affiliate sales or influencer collaborations. So, to set up a successful blog, you first have to identify your niche and build a substantial online audience. In addition to quality content, social media is an essential tool to get you there. It may take some time at first, but eventually, your dedication and patience will pay off. Literally.
2. Photographer
It might not be easy to find your feet as a travel photographer as you might have to put up with an unsteady income in the beginning. However, the rewards are plenty, as travel photographers capture the world’s most beautiful corners. All you need is a good eye, quality gear and a decent dose of wanderlust. Apart from working for online and print publications, you could also try yourself as destination wedding photographer.
3. Working on a Yacht
If your dream is to sail your way around the world on a private yacht, but you’re missing the spare change, consider joining the crew on someone else’s. When on the sea, these luxury vessels are in need of everything ranging from chefs to nannies, engineers and, of course, captains. Although many casual positions on these recreational cruisers are often low in pay, you may get ahead of your crewmates through experience and by obtaining a Yachtmaster qualification.
4. Videographer
If you are more into moving pictures, you could take your video editing skills on a trip. As a videographer, you can shoot at sell stock footage, produce marketing campaigns for tourism board and travel brands or even start your own YouTube channel. Apart from your video editing skills and professional gear, you should also pack some marketing knowledge and networking skills.
5. Teach English
The benefit of having English as a first language is that most countries in the world are trying to learn it too. With tertiary qualification in any field and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate in your pocket, you can virtually work anywhere in the world. Teaching English in a foreign country is a great way to meet locals and immerse yourself in their culture. In addition to a decent monthly payslip, these jobs often include flights and accommodation.
6. Tour Leader
As a tour leader, you might host a coach trip through France or an overland voyage through Southeast Asia. The opportunities are plentiful and as varied as they come. Either way, this role requires strong leadership skills, a busload of enthusiasm and unparalleled can-do attitude. If this sounds like you and you have already assembled an impressive travel portfolio and are fluent in more than one language, this may be the job for you.
7. Working on a Cruise Ship
Working on a cruise ship is similar to working on a yacht, just on a much larger scale. Whether you want to discover the Caribbean or the shores of Europe, the routes are as diverse as your wanderlust. Additionally, since a cruise liner requires more staff than a royal household, they hire everything from cleaners to performance artist, fitness instructors and beauty therapists.
8. Ski Instructor
If you love a cool breeze in your face and a steep slope at your feet, this may be the dream job for you. A career as a ski or snowboard instructor can quickly take you to New Zealand, Japan, Canada and other coveted snow resorts around the world. If you’re lucky enough to find a job at a ski resort, they often administer your training. Alternatively, you can obtain a qualification through the APSI (Australian Professional Snowboard Instructors Inc.). Their Alpine Level One course will allow you to apply your skills internationally.
9. Travel Consultant
Since the rise of online price comparison websites, the role of the travel consultant as we used to know it has virtually vanished. However, in truth, it has only shifted shape. Whether you are working with an online travel agent, as a booking agent for businesses or high-end clientele, travel consultants still travel to the resorts they advertise. Furthermore, they receive substantial discounts when booking their own holidays.
10. Scuba Diving Instructor
If living by the sea makes you feel like a fish underwater, you should consider a career as a scuba diving instructor. This path will allow you to discover the most breathtaking seaside destinations on earth while teaching others your skills. To qualify, you will first have to complete the PADI Advanced Open Water course, followed by the PADI Rescue Diver/Emergency First Response course. Once you have ticked these items off your checklist, you’re ready to move on to the final PADI Divemaster course. For more information visit abyss.com.au.
11. Humanitarian Aid
Humanitarian aid is no job for the faint-hearted, but if you love travelling and helping others, this role might be for you. Just be aware that volunteers are likely to be sent to rural areas in developing or disaster-struck countries where conditions can be harsh. International aid agencies are always looking for qualified staff to run operations on the ground.
12. Bartending
Like many others, you probably spent some time working in hospitality at some point in your life, and that hard-earned experience can pay off. Despite somewhat unsocial hours, bartending is a great way to keep you afloat during your overseas stay. If you have quality cocktail ambitions, you can hone your skills in a professional bartending course before commencing your new career.
13. Business Coach
Business consultants typically work on short-term contracts, assisting a company’s growth through lending their professional expertise. A consultant’s client base often spreads to the borders of one country and beyond, enabling you to work from wherever you are. If you are an expert in your field and are seeking more professional independence, this may be the path for you.
14. Visit.org Ambassador
Visit.org offers an excellent range of opportunities to apply your skills overseas while making a difference in small communities. As a visual ambassador, you are sent to locations to produce imagery and footage of their facilities, activities and landscapes. Storytelling ambassadors use their skills to promote and enhance a project’s mission. A travel ambassador assists in identifying and solving issues on the ground and connecting new projects. Visit the organisation’s website for more information on how to make a difference as a visit.org ambassador.
15. Flight Attendant
When thinking about travel careers, a flight attendant is usually one of the first jobs that come to mind, and rightfully so. Air travel is the fastest way to explore new places, and as a crew member, you save big on those hefty airfares. However, if you’re dreaming of far-off exotic destinations, make sure to apply to a major airline that serves long-haul destinations. While working hours can be long, off-duty perks include generous travel benefits for you and your family.
Rose Schleicher is an experienced content and communications professional who has worked across three different continents over the past nine years. She has completed a master’s degree from the renowned London College of Fashion with extensive involvement in the cultural scene of Europe. As a creative, she loves writing about all things fashion, beauty, and lifestyle topics.
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