Like many of you, I used to find myself endlessly googling, “How to make money while travelling the world.” or “How to make money online” It always felt like an elusive dream—something only influencers or journalists could pull off. Up until two years ago, I never believed it was a realistic goal for someone like me. That all changed when I learned about digital nomad communities and realised the world was full of people living that dream, and more importantly, I could too.
Fast forward to today, nearly two years since I made the leap into the world of digital nomadism. In March 2023, I quit my 9-to-5, packed up my flat, sold almost everything I owned, and said goodbye to my friends and family. At the time, I thought it was just a temporary adventure—a chance to take a break and explore. But by the second month of my journey, it hit me: I couldn’t go back to my old life. The freedom, the adventure, and the sense of discovery had me hooked.
Since then, I’ve travelled to over 18 countries and embraced a life full of adventure. I don’t see myself moving back to the UK anytime soon, though you might catch me in London occasionally, visiting friends and family. My journey from a life of routine to one filled with exploration was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and now I want to share how you can do the same.
Why I Made the Leap
Life felt like a comfortable jail. Don’t get me wrong—I loved my life in the UK. I had amazing friends, a cosy flat in Kent, and I was already travelling pretty frequently across Europe. But something was missing. Despite having what looked like the perfect life from the outside, I felt trapped in a cycle that seemed all too familiar to many.
The daily grind was suffocating to me: wake up, work, pay bills, live for the weekend, repeat. It felt like I was merely existing, not truly living. The prospect of continuing this routine—especially while single—until retirement was terrifying. I kept asking myself, “Is this it? Is this all life has to offer?” Why do we have to wait until retirement to finally taste freedom? But the thought of spending the next 3 decades stuck in the same predictable pattern was enough to make me rethink everything. I knew there had to be more to life than just ticking boxes and following the script.
I craved freedom, adventure, and a sense of purpose that couldn’t be found within the confines of a 9-to-5 job. Don’t get me wrong—there are days when I barely leave the house, glued to my laptop, whether I’m hustling on a project or just indulging in a cheeky Sims 4 or I’m just enjoying a good book that I can’t put down. But even with those quieter moments, I knew I needed a change. So, I took the leap. It wasn’t an easy decision—it was scary, uncertain, and full of risks. Yet deep down, I knew it was the right move. Looking back now, I can confidently say it was the best decision I’ve ever made.
How I did it
Everything changed at a friend’s housewarming party. I met someone (who is now a friend) who introduced me to the world of digital nomad communities – companies that facilitate travel for people who work remotely while travelling the world (thanks, Amanda for answering all my incessant questions!). She shared her experiences of breaking free from the traditional 9-to-5, working from beautiful locations across the globe, and living life on her own terms. Her story was a revelation.
Inspired and armed with all this new information and her number to ask questions and share my findings, I dove deep into research. I discovered communities, platforms, and opportunities that could transform my work-life balance. Eventually, I became a contractor with Remote Year (it was about 4-5 months in the making from applying to getting my contract), transitioning from a media girlie to a location-independent worker. Now the route I took is quite niche in this world and more often than not people take a different approach. My direction required a mindset shift and some very honest conversations with myself. To be a community leader you really have to be honest with yourself; am I able to take myself out of the situation? Am I patient enough to deal with other people for an extended period of time?
My motivations were clear:
- I Needed More Than Grey Skies: The constant lack of sunlight in the UK was crushing my mental health. I craved warmth, vibrant experiences, and the energy that comes with exploring new environments. (what’s ironic is I’m writing this on the greyest, coldest day in London, after coming home for the Christmas Break)
- I Wanted a Life, Not Just a Job: Sitting in my carefully curated flat, I realized I was trading my youth for a sense of security. Life shouldn’t be about surviving; it should be about truly living.
- I Longed for Real Adventure: I wanted to be an active participant in my own life – exploring, learning, and growing every single day. As my former manager once advised, I needed to “create a life you don’t have to escape from.”
So, I took the leap and embarked on a journey that would completely redefine my understanding of work, travel, and personal freedom.
My Journey as a Community Leader
After a lot of soul-searching and some serious mindset shifts, I found a role that let me live the life I’d dreamed of. Becoming a community leader with Remote Year was a transformative experience (you’ll hear me say that a hell of a lot FYI) that allowed me to guide groups of digital nomads across a range of breathtaking destinations. This role wasn’t just about coordinating travel—it was about creating a supportive and inspiring environment where people could connect, grow, and truly immerse themselves in each destination.
Remote Year is about so much more than just moving from place to place. It’s about fostering a sense of community, where each person feels supported, engaged, and empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Each month brought a new destination, new challenges, and new opportunities to immerse myself in the local culture. I wasn’t just a guide; I was a connector, helping people build friendships, navigate unfamiliar terrains, and make the most of their remote work experience. The role didn’t just cover my travel expenses—it enriched my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I forged deep, meaningful relationships with people I now consider lifelong friends and even extended family.
Some of the most unforgettable destinations on our journey for me were Peru, Medellín, and Bali. I delve into my favourite destinations during my time with Remote Year.
How to make money while travelling the world within 3 months
Dreaming of seeing the world without sacrificing your financial stability? You’re not alone. For a lot of us, figuring out how to make money while travelling the world felt like an impossible task. But let me assure you—it’s more attainable than it seems. Whether you’re itching to escape the daily grind or just want to explore life beyond your borders, sustaining an income on the go is within reach.
In this section, I’ll share five practical and proven ways to kickstart your global adventure within three months, all while maintaining financial security. These methods aren’t just theoretical—they’re actionable strategies that I’ve seen work for myself. Plus, because I’m all about giving you that extra edge, there’s a bonus tip at the end to give you even more options (especially if you really want to do something you love). Let’s dive in and get you on the path to living—and funding—your dream life of travel.
1. Transition Your Current Job to Remote Work
If your role can be performed remotely, consider discussing this option with your employer. You’d be surprised how many companies are now open to flexible working arrangements, including temporary remote work from abroad. Here’s how you can make it happen:
- Prepare a Proposal: Outline how you will manage your responsibilities and maintain productivity while working remotely. Address potential challenges and provide solutions.
- Highlight the Benefits: Emphasise how remote work can improve your work-life balance, potentially boosting your productivity and morale.
- Choose Your Destination Wisely: For those working UK hours, locations in Asia offer the benefit of free mornings and working in the evening. If you’re on US hours, European countries or locations in Central and South America provide time zones that closely align with your work schedule, offering a smooth transition.
2. Secure a Fully Remote Job
If your current job isn’t remote or you’re on the hunt for a new opportunity, the remote work market is booming. You might have seen headlines suggesting otherwise, but trust me, there are still plenty of companies committed to remote-first policies. If you’re wondering how to make money while travelling the world, this could be the perfect solution. Here are some resources to help you land that dream remote role:
- FlexJobs: Offers curated listings of remote and flexible jobs across various industries.
- We Work Remotely: A leading platform for remote job opportunities, covering a wide range of sectors.
- Working Nomads: Regularly updated listings tailored for digital nomads.
- Remote.co: Provides comprehensive resources and job listings specifically for remote work enthusiasts.
- NoDesk: Features remote jobs along with insightful articles aimed at nomads and remote workers.
By leveraging these platforms, you can find a role that fits your skills and lifestyle, enabling you to earn an income while exploring the world. Whether you’re looking for full-time employment or freelance gigs, there’s something for everyone in the evolving remote job market.
3. Become a User-Generated Content (UGC) Creator
Brands are constantly on the lookout for authentic content from real users. As a UGC creator, you can produce content for brands in exchange for compensation, which can help fund your travels. To get started:
- Understand Market Demand: Research what brands are seeking and analyse successful UGC campaigns.
- Get on the apps: Join apps like Insense, Billo (US only) Tribe and Join brands to build up your portfolio. Pro tip: if you are a new UGC creator, apply for the more niche jobs because chances are you will get picked rather than picking fashion, beauty and lifestyle.
- Build Your Portfolio: Use platforms like Canva to create and showcase your content.
- Pitch to Brands: Don’t be shy—reach out to companies that align with your style and offer your UGC services.
4. Become a Virtual Assistant (VA)
If you’re organised and have a knack for tasks like email management, scheduling, or social media, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) is a fantastic way to earn while you travel. This role offers flexibility and can be done from anywhere. Check out these platforms to get started:
- The Virtual Assistant Company (TVAC): Connects VAs with clients needing administrative and specialist support.
- Belay: Connects VAs with clients needing administrative support.
- Time Etc: Specialises in matching virtual assistants with business owners.
5. Offer Online Coaching or Consulting
Leverage your expertise to provide coaching or consulting services online. Whether it’s in fitness, business strategy, or personal development, this avenue can be highly lucrative and flexible. Platforms to connect with clients include:
- Coach.me: A platform for habit coaching and personal development.
- Clarity: Connects experts with individuals seeking advice in various fields.
Bonus: Freelance Your Skills
If you’ve ever wondered how to make money while travelling the world, freelancing could be your golden ticket. Whether you excel in writing, graphic design, web development, or digital marketing, freelancing allows you to leverage your talents while exploring new places. Platforms like Upwork and Freelancer make it easy to connect with clients from around the globe.
Start by creating a compelling profile that highlights your skills and past work. Make sure to showcase your portfolio to attract potential clients. Once your profile is polished, begin applying for projects that align with your expertise. Over time, you’ll build a reputation, gain regular clients, and enjoy the freedom to work from wherever your travels take you.
Pro tip: For upwork turn on your availability badge to get easy in bounds to start with!
Final Thoughts
Making the leap into a life of travel and adventure doesn’t have to remain a dream—it’s a realistic goal when you learn how to make money while travelling the world. Whether it’s transitioning your current job to remote work, securing a fully remote role, diving into content creation, offering online services, or freelancing your skills, there are plenty of practical steps you can take today to start your journey.
I hope my story serves as a reminder that living a life filled with exploration and purpose is possible with the right planning and mindset. The world is full of opportunities (and money) waiting for you to seize. So why wait until retirement to experience true freedom? Start taking steps now to create a life that blends work with the adventure of travel.
Remember, the world is out there, ready to be explored. Whether you’re taking small steps or big leaps, each move brings you closer to a life of discovery, excitement, and financial independence. The journey is yours to create—so go ahead, take that first step, and make your travel dreams a reality.
