Globeish's Guide: How to Work, Volunteer, or Teach Abroad to Travel Long-Term on a Budget
Traveling the world is amazing—but it can get expensive fast. Luckily, there are ways to fund your adventures while living abroad, gaining experience, and meeting incredible people. Working, volunteering, or teaching abroad is one of the smartest ways to travel long-term without draining your savings.
Here’s how you can make it happen:
1. Work Exchanges
Work exchanges are perfect if you want room and board in exchange for your time and skills.
-
Workaway – Exchange a few hours of work per day for food and lodging in homes, hostels, farms, or small businesses worldwide.
-
WWOOF – Volunteer on organic farms to learn about sustainable farming while enjoying free accommodations.
-
HelpX – Similar to Workaway, offering opportunities on farms, homestays, and eco-projects globally.
These programs let you immerse yourself in local life and travel affordably.
2. Teach Abroad
Teaching is a reliable way to earn money while exploring.
-
Teaching English Abroad – Countries like South Korea, Japan, Spain, and Thailand hire native English speakers, often providing a salary, housing, and benefits.
-
Online English Teaching – Platforms like VIPKid, Qkids, or Cambly let you teach from anywhere with a stable income.
-
Specialty Teaching – Teach yoga, music, coding, or other skills through workshops or retreats worldwide.
Teaching abroad isn’t just about earning—it’s a gateway to cultural immersion.
3. Seasonal or Temporary Work
Short-term jobs abroad can cover your travel expenses and offer adventure at the same time.
-
Hospitality Jobs – Hostels, resorts, and cruise ships often provide room, board, and salary.
-
Au Pair Programs – Live with a host family, care for children, and receive a stipend plus accommodations.
-
Adventure & Tourism Jobs – Lead tours, teach diving, or work in adventure camps for unique experiences and pay.
4. Volunteer for Experience
Volunteering abroad is perfect if you want to give back while exploring.
-
Conservation Projects – Help with wildlife, marine, or environmental efforts in amazing locations.
-
Community Work – Contribute to local education, healthcare, or social initiatives.
-
Short-Term Volunteer Programs – Even a few weeks of volunteering provides cultural immersion and meaningful connections.
5. Freelance or Remote Work Abroad
Digital skills let you earn while exploring the world.
-
Digital Nomad Lifestyle – Work remotely in writing, design, marketing, or programming while traveling.
-
Freelance Marketplaces – Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr let you work from anywhere.
-
Travel Blogging or Vlogging – Share your adventures online and monetize through ads, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing.
Traveling the world doesn’t have to drain your bank account. Whether you choose to volunteer, teach, or work abroad, there are countless ways to make your adventures affordable, immersive, and unforgettable. Start planning your next journey today!
Other Related Post
How to Travel the World on a Tight Budget (Without Feeling Broke)
Globeish’s Guide on Travel Rewards Hacks: Maximize Your Points & Travel for Less
Eat Like a Local (and Save Big): How to Find Authentic Food and Save Money While Traveling
Travel Like a Local: How to Explore Cities Using Public Transport and Walking
The Ultimate Travel Tech Guide: Our Favorite Gadgets for Digital Nomads & Frequent Flyers
