10 Jobs You Didn’t Know You Can Do While Exploring the World
Do you think you need digital skills to explore the world? When people talk about jobs that you can do while traveling, they immediately think of remote workers, freelancers, digital marketers, or tech professionals working on their laptops from beachside cafes. While that lifestyle has its appeal, there are careers that go beyond the typical “work from anywhere” mold.
Keep reading to explore jobs you can do while exploring the world!
Rediscover the Art of Remote Working
Long before the remote work revolution, there were jobs designed to bring you face-to-face with new experiences, cultures, and adventures. These roles often require shifting your mindset, stepping out of your comfort zone, learning new skills, and sometimes even meeting unique certification requirements (read more about it in my article, Remote Work as a Mindset Shift).
If you’ve ever dreamed of working while traveling the world, but just sitting in front of the computer isn’t for you, this list offers a fresh perspective. These 10 occupations prove that the world is full of opportunities to combine meaningful work with the thrill of traveling.
1. Traveling Nurse: Combining Care and Adventure
Traveling nurses take temporary assignments in healthcare facilities around the world. From busy urban hospitals to remote clinics, this role allows you to provide critical care where it’s most needed while immersing yourself in new environments.
Why It Stands Out: Beyond offering competitive pay and travel stipends, traveling nurse roles are deeply rewarding. Each assignment introduces you to different communities, healthcare systems, and cultural practices.
What You Need: A Registered Nurse (RN) license and you may need additional certifications depending on the country or state. Some employers also require language skills for better communication.
2. ESL Teacher: Bringing Language to Life
Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) is a timeless way to explore the world while making a tangible difference in people’s lives. ESL teachers are in demand globally, working in schools, private institutions, or even as personal tutors.
Why It Stands Out: It’s not just about teaching; it’s about building connections. You’ll get to experience daily life in another culture while helping students gain a skill that can change their futures.
What You Need: A TEFL or TESOL certification is often required, along with a bachelor’s degree in some countries. Research work visa requirements before committing.
3. Archaeological Site Documentation Specialist: Unearth History
If history fascinates you, working as a documentation specialist at archaeological sites can be a dream come true. This role involves cataloging, photographing, and preserving artifacts, often in collaboration with global research teams.
Why It Stands Out: You’ll gain unique access to places most people only read about. Each assignment offers the chance to contribute to preserving history while traveling to extraordinary locations.
What You Need: A background in archaeology, anthropology, or historical preservation is typically required. Depending on the location, you might also need special permits or clearances.
4. Destination Event Planner: Crafting Memorable Experiences
Planning weddings, corporate retreats, or milestone celebrations in exotic locations is as exciting as it sounds. Destination event planners take on the logistics of creating unforgettable events for clients worldwide.
Why It Stands Out: You’ll work with local vendors, get a chance to research details of each destination, and create memories that clients will treasure forever. Every event can be a new adventure.
What You Need: Strong organizational skills and event planning certifications (such as CMP: Certified Meeting Professional) can give you an advantage. Familiarity with local customs and laws to ensure a smooth execution.
5. International Doula: Support Across Borders
Providing physical and emotional support to families during childbirth is a rewarding job. As an international doula, or birth companion, you’ll accompany families in diverse cultural settings, helping them navigate one of life’s most important moments.
Why It Stands Out: Every culture has unique traditions around birth, and as a doula, you’ll gain unparalleled insight into these practices while making a difference in people’s lives.
What You Need: Certification through organizations like DONA International is typically required. Research legal requirements for practicing in your chosen destination.
6. Outdoor Adventure Guide: Turning Landscapes Into Classrooms
For outdoor enthusiasts, guiding others through activities like hiking, rock climbing, or kayaking offers the perfect blend of work and adventure. Adventure guides operate in some of the world’s most breathtaking environments.
Why It Stands Out: This job keeps you physically active and mentally engaged. You’ll connect with people who share your love for the outdoors, all while exploring places few get to experience.
What You Need: Certifications like Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or activity-specific qualifications (e.g., AMGA for climbing guides) and first aid knowledge are often required.
7. Traveling Occupational Therapist: Transform Lives on the Move
Occupational therapists can travel globally to help patients regain mobility and independence. Assignments often involve working with healthcare facilities or rehabilitation centers in different regions.
Why It Stands Out: This job offers a unique perspective on global healthcare systems while letting you form meaningful relationships with patients from diverse backgrounds.
What You Need: An OT license and any equivalent certifications required in the destination country. Look into visa requirements before pursuing international placements.
8. Traveling Music Teacher: Spreading Creativity Worldwide
Music teachers who travel the world get to share their passion while learning about global musical traditions. From private lessons to workshops, this role allows you to earn a living while celebrating the universal language of music.
Why It Stands Out: Few roles let you blend personal creativity with cultural exchange. As a traveling music teacher, you’ll inspire others and enrich your own understanding of global artistry.
What You Need: Teaching certifications or a strong portfolio showcasing your skills. Knowing how to teach in multiple languages can be a bonus.
9. International Yoga or Fitness Instructor: Wellness Without Borders
Yoga and fitness instructors can travel by hosting retreats, working at resorts, or teaching private sessions in beautiful destinations. This job is ideal for those passionate about health and wellness.
Why It Stands Out: Wellness is a universal priority, and you’ll be at the forefront of helping people achieve their goals—all while soaking in stunning surroundings.
What You Need: Certifications in yoga or fitness instruction (e.g., Yoga Alliance or ACE). Partnerships with established centers can provide stability.
10. Travel Photographer or Videographer: Telling Stories Through Lenses
Travel photographers and videographers capture the beauty of the world for magazines, brands, and travel agencies. This career is perfect for creative individuals with a talent for storytelling.
Why It Stands Out: Your work takes you to extraordinary places, and the content you create inspires others to see the world through a different lens.
What You Need: A strong portfolio and expertise in editing software. For professional shoots, ensure you have necessary permits for certain locations.
Conclusion: It's Up to You
While some of the examples may seem impossible, they are here to inspire you. Moreover, they are a reminder that the idea of working while traveling isn’t limited to digital nomads glued to their laptops. These occupations offer a mix of hands-on experience, cultural immersion, and professional growth. They remind us that work doesn’t have to mean sacrificing adventure or curiosity. It can be the very thing that takes you further.