how to transform your love of travel into a career

Some people can't imagine a life without travel. The breathtaking views, the variety of people, the tasty and maybe strange foods - it's the experiences you can't live without. If you're forever struck with wanderlust and can't imagine your life without globetrotting, a future where travel and work are balanced can seem impossible.

A job that has you traveling often may or may not satisfy your travel desires, so today I'll be talking about other ways to start with your passion - travel - and develop it into a career where you are truly doing what you love. 

You don't have to choose between travelling and a career. Thanks to the internet and to jobs that leverage your expertise and love of travel, you can do both.

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start a travel company

Starting your own travel company may be easier than you think. Leverage your expertise in travel, your eye for accommodations, and your customer service skills to start a travel consulting agency, or move to your destination of choice and start a service company. From ski hires, tour guide services, to holiday rentals, brainstorm what is most important to you, what skills you have, and what you need to be happy in your day-to-day and then go from there.

Getting started will take time, effort, and some capital. Focus on one thing and develop your company and brand, then re-invest your revenue to expand your portfolio. Don't underestimate the value you bring to the table, though! People get busier by the day, and you'll find that customers love having you research the best spots for them to visit on their vacation, from sightseeing to spots only the locals know about, and planning their itinerary. Hospitality work can be fun, well-paid, and satisfying.

become a travel influencer

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The hotel and airline industries have taken a massive hit over the past few months due to the coronavirus pandemic but that doesn't mean it's the end of the road for travel influencers. In fact, people are following online travel influencers now more than ever, planning their next trips, and imagining all the beautiful places they may get to. 

The list of travel-restricted countries changes frequently and getting from one to another at the moment can be complicated. However, advertisers still need to get the word out on their products and you may be surprised how willing they are to pay reasonable money to for you to highlight their products for your audience. 

Whether you start with a blog, vlog, or a hybrid, think about what your unique take on traveling is and what audience that will appeal to. Plan out your content for consistent high quality delivery to your readers or watchers, and aim for a streamlined look that is cohesive and helps establish a brand.

try travel consulting

Travel consultants are different than tour operators. Their job is to assist specific holidaymakers in making the most of their trip. They assist with things like visas, flights, travel safety, and travel products. You'll usually work with wealthy clients and they will expect you to travel with them to smooth the way. You could find yourself on the sunny beaches of Spain or on a trek through the Arabian desert. If you aim to please, have a steady work ethic, and truly want to be immersed in travel as a way of life, travel consulting may be the way to go.

work as an au pair

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Au pairs often travel all over the world looking for opportunities to work with prestigious clients who often have homes in several companies. A step up from a nanny, au pairs are live-in which means your job is your life. If you have experience with children (and enjoyed it) and the idea of living abroad is your dream, then being an au pair may be the dream job for you.