Travelling is no longer the exclusive domain of people with money to burn. These days, remote work has made it possible for workers, young and old, to enjoy leisurely travel while working to pay their bills and finance their trips.
Picture yourself going on adventures while still having time to work your day job on a beach, in a mountain retreat, or in a lush villa with a pool. Instead of commuting back from work in traffic, it’s possible to get a massage or wind down with a good book after turning off your laptop. Better yet, imagine scoring a job that allows you to travel the world by its mobile nature, allowing you to network and experience rich international cultures while doing something you love.
But this once untouchable dream can actually become a reality. With the global access the internet provides, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to career paths that allow for travel opportunities. Whether these are remote jobs, jobs in the travel sector, or jobs whose requirements entail working abroad for short stints, there are plenty of careers you can pursue even when you’re bitten by the travel bug. Below are eight particularly rewarding examples:
1) Digital Marketing
One of the newer job sectors that’s opened up with the advent of the internet is digital marketing. This new generation of marketers can orchestrate online campaigns that transcend geographical boundaries. Within the industry, there are many roles you can consider, such as that of a search engine optimization (SEO) or pay-per-click specialist. For more creative roles, digital marketing includes content writing and social media management. Content specialists can generate written content for different clients that support the latter’s SEO campaigns and online branding strategies.
The great thing about this kind of career is that it comes with a relaxed, artsy, and innovative culture that’s reflected in its dress code. If you have the privilege of attending a marketing conference or meeting international clients abroad, you can bring along travel-friendly essentials like women’s tights, leggings, jumpsuits, and shirt dresses in your luggage.
2) Content Creation
Do you have something original to share with the world? Can you effectively communicate your ideas and thoughts through videos and stories? If the answer is yes, maybe you have the potential to be the next big YouTube star or blogging sensation. And while a lot of content creators are mainly known for their vlogs or video logs, “content creation” actually encompasses other media, such as photography, podcasting, and written content.
If vlogging’s not your thing, you can instead consider launching a blog or starting a podcast where you can talk about specific topics that you’re an expert in—with travel being one of them. While it can take some time before you can monetize your blog website, YouTube account, or podcast channel, once you’ve found and established your niche audience, these channels can be a reliable source of income. Best of all, you can use your travel experience as valuable content for people interested in visiting other countries.
3) Data Analytics
Data knows no borders, and data analysts leverage this fact to their advantage. They can analyze data remotely, helping organizations make informed decisions that shape their global strategies. With a laptop and fast internet connection, an aspiring data analyst can set up shop anywhere in the world. Moreover, depending on the company they work for, they may also be asked to travel to different branches or offices to ensure that data-driven strategies are seamlessly integrated across business headquarters.
4) Graphic Design
If you happen to have a talent for graphic design, you may also look into pursuing a career in the graphic arts industry. On one hand, you can apply to larger design or animation firms and opt for a more flexible arrangement that allows for remote work. Alternatively, you can explore the freelancing route and work on a per-project basis on your own time, from wherever you are in the world.
5) Software Development
Armed with only a powerful laptop and a reliable connection, software developers can code their way around the world if they want to. Lots of employers are often willing to allow their software developers to work from anywhere, as long as they produce the output expected of them at the allotted time. Moreover, software developers can also take on additional side hustles as freelance coders for added remote income.
6) Aviation
For those who literally dream of touching the skies, becoming a pilot or flight attendant is the ideal travel-filled career. These professionals journey to different destinations while ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers, giving them a unique perspective on the world from above.
7) The Cruise Ship Industry
Ever wonder what it’s like to work for cruise liners? Cruise ship jobs are as diverse as can be. From waiting tables to doing live entertainment to working as a cabin crew member or marine engineer, there’s an opportunity for everyone at different skill levels. Aside from the travel perks, you’ll also get free accommodation and board when you work on a cruise ship. With fewer expenses, you’ll have more of your salary to enjoy—and more unique ways to enjoy it.
8) International Travel Nursing
Combining their healthcare expertise with a passion for exploration, travel nurses can be both globetrotters and caregivers. If you have training as a nurse, you can fulfil your calling to provide vital medical care and make an impact on the lives of other people while seeing different countries around the world.
Combining your passion for travel and meaningful work is not a fanciful dream you may be able to fulfil someday. It’s the reality for a lot of professionals now. As someone seeking to tread the same path, you have many options to consider.
Before you pack up your bags and embark on your next travel and work adventure, be aware of your strengths and weaknesses. Make sure the career you want to pursue aligns with your individual needs and objectives, and that you have the physical energy, mental fortitude, and resources to see it through. This is what will allow you to realize your dream of working to live, and not the other way around!