10. Teach English
Being born a native English speaker can be your passport to living and working abroad, which is a popular way how to travel the world for free. English teachers are in demand in China, Japan, South Korea, Latin America, Eastern Europe and other regions. The pay, hours and benefits vary widely, so do your homework before agreeing to an international contract. The best jobs require a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL or TESOL certificate, but often just being an enthusiastic native speaker can get you hired. It can be draining work, but you can squeeze in fun and adventure on your time off and have a life-changing intercultural and language learning experience to boot. Many English teachers manage to save enough money to fund some extensive traveling after they’ve done their time. Check out ESL Cafe or CIEE and start talking your way around the world.
11. Travel Hack
If you know what you’re doing, there is a way to amass enough miles, loyalty points and benefits to get free flights, upgrades, hotel stays and more. It’s a bit of an art to take advantage of the system like a pro, but its completely legal and above board. Many credit cards, alliances and memberships offer sign-up bonuses, or run contests and promotions where you can earn significant points that eventually translate into travel experiences. The trick is to watch the fine print so you don’t get stuck with membership fees and minimum spends that nullify the whole exercise. Travel hacking can be a time consuming effort, but the rewards are ultimately worth it. Learn the insider secrets with The Travel Hacking Cartel or The Points Guy.
12. Hit the Road with a Driveaway Deal
If you’re willing to drive a vehicle from point A to B, often across long distances, you can essentially get free transportation – sometimes gas included. This is another win-win opportunity, where a relocation company or individual gets their wheels delivered and you get to experience a cross-country road trip. Drivers have to be flexible, reliable and (usually) over 23. Often there’s an upfront deposit to make sure you don’t meander too far off the route and schedule. Check out Auto Driveaway, Toronto Driveaway or Relocation2Go for free (or super cheap) transportation options around the world.
