Most of us aren’t lucky enough to live anywhere we want without a job. While some can live the nomadic life on a dime or a fortune, the rest of us need to work our way. If you want to live abroad and make some money along the way, here are some interesting ways to do so.

Work Remotely

One of the most sought after jobs for globetrotters are those that allow them to work remotely. Working remotely from an American company allows you all of the familiarity of working with those in your own culture without the learning curve of working with foreign language speakers. It also means you don’t have to get acquainted with the foreign country’s tax laws (but do educate yourself, just in case). Gone are the days when the remote job market was only for copywriters, marketers, and financiers. Today, almost any job you can think of allows you to work remotely. Whether you are a web designer, software specialist, graphic designer, or have other skills, there is a job for you. If you currently work for a company and they value your service, try to negotiate a deal where you can work while travelling. If this doesn’t work, remote jobs are available from Remote.com.

Look Into Teaching Programs

English is one of the most widely taught languages in the world among Arabic, Mandarin, Spanish ,and French. If you know any of these languages, you should have good luck finding a job in most countries. Have a specific country in mind? Research their programs for foreign teachers. Analyze their pay, benefits, and read reviews from those who have gone there before you prior to making a commitment. If you’re more open to different countries, consider which has the best plan and why. Some countries offer premium benefits, amenities, insurance, and housing. Places like Japan will pay you more than enough to live, pay bills at home, and have savings left over. Other countries—like many in Europe—pay more, but the cost of living is very high.
 

Find Translating Jobs

Translating jobs exist in almost any job sector abroad. Companies large and small alike need English translators for business travel, interpreting material, and generally making the company more global and competitive. Translating jobs vary from big financial corporations to small publications. If you have a mastery of both the English language and the foreign language of your choice, you’ll get paid handsomely for your skills. Both written and verbal proficiency is a must.

Browse the Hospitality Industry

Metropolitan cities and resort towns alike need English speakers to help business run smoothly. If you decide to live in a large city like London or a tourist destination like Bali, you’ll likely find a job for you. The options are only limited to your imagination - from bartending to serving, hotel staff to masseuse, and everything in between.

Work for the Tourist Industry

Have you ever seen hordes of tourists walking around a particular attraction in your city? Usually a fluent or native speaker of their language leads them. You may find a local tourism company that needs your help leading English-speaking tourists around town. You’ll get free admission to parks, museums, and other interesting venues in your area in addition to showing off your place of stay to visitors. This job is also a great opportunity to connect with people from your own country and bring a little relief to any homesickness you might feel.

Sell Your Wares

If you’re crafty, put your skills to good use! Open an Etsy store or use another avenue to sell your handcrafted goods, whether it be knitted scarves, custom jewelry, or hand-painted knick knacks. No matter your niche, there’s an audience for you. Get creative and don’t be afraid to sell your goods at a price it deserves. Incorporate colors and cultural cues from your travels for a truly global shop.

Consider a Work Exchange

While you won’t make a lot of money, a work exchange is a good way to earn shelter and food for work. Work exchanges usually don’t pay you, but they will give you a place to stay if you contribute your time and effort. It’s a good way to get your feet off the ground if you just landed in a new place. Start by checking out WWOOF for farming opportunities.

There are definitely ways to travel and feel financially secure. Search for one of these jobs and you will have a better long-term travel experience.

Have you worked while traveling? Been an expat, or a digital nomad? How did you find your job?