Does Your Wanderlust Run Deeper Than Your Pockets? 7 Unconventional Ways to See the World

Travel is one of the most fulfilling adventures for the soul – but it can be expensive. The good news is that there are many unconventional ways to explore the world without breaking the bank. You may even be able to earn a living while travelling, although you may have to step out of your comfort zone to do so. Here are seven ways to see the world while covering some or all of your costs.

1. Volunteer at a Yoga Retreat

If you love yoga, you might want to consider volunteering at a yoga retreat. You will have to work, but your efforts will cover your accommodation, meals, and yoga classes.

Several yoga retreats around the world, such as the Yoga Farm of Costa Rica, offer reduced rates for volunteers who work about 10-15 hours per week. You don’t have to be a yoga expert to volunteer, and you may be able to offer your skills in cooking, cleaning, or other tasks. If you have yoga teaching experience, you may teach yoga classes or guide meditations.

To find a volunteer yoga retreat, do a simple Google search for the city you want to visit, along with the keywords “volunteer yoga retreat”. This will show you available opportunities that you can review and choose from.

2. Participate in Adventure Races

If you have a slightly higher budget and want a more thrilling experience, consider an adventure race. You can combine two dreams into one unforgettable experience – travel and adventure. It may even be cheaper than traditional travel plans.

You will be responsible for your travel, lodging, entrance fees, and meals, but race coordinators will typically partner with hotels that offer affordable rates. You can save even more money by sharing accommodation with other participants or camping nearby.

You can choose from a variety of adventure races around the world, such as the Rickshaw Run adventure races in Jaisalmer or Expedition Africa in Cape St. Francis. Browse NatGeo’s list of Great Races in Amazing Places to discover various options and pick the one that excites you the most.

3. Travel Nursing

If you envy people who live and work in your favourite vacation spot, you may want to consider becoming a travel nurse. Your nursing assignments can take you places you’ve never been to before – and the best part – you won’t have to pay for travel. You’ll even get paid for your work.

To become a travel nurse, you will need a nursing degree and at least a year of RN experience. Then you’ll be ready to join a good travel nursing company that will handle your assignments. The travel company takes care of your travel costs, and you’ll enjoy a salary that is competitive with the traditional nursing industry.

4. Drive a Semi-Truck

If you love the idea of hitting the open road and travelling long distances, then driving a semi-truck for a living may be perfect for you. The longer you stay on the road, the more money you make.

However, just as with travel nursing, this is not something you can jump into without preparation. To become a CDL driver, you will need to undergo a CDL training program and pass a licensing exam. Some drivers even choose to invest in their own trucks.

To get started, look for a reputable CDL licensing school near you. If you’re lucky, you may land an apprenticeship that allows you to get paid while getting training. Once you’ve earned your CDL, you can either buy your truck or work for someone else.

5. Teach an English Class in South Korea

If you want to immerse yourself in a completely different culture, teaching English to students in South Korea might be the perfect opportunity for you. You will get paid a modest sum, and you will have a chance to gain life-changing experience in a foreign country.

To qualify for the opportunity, you must have a Bachelor’s degree and be a native English speaker with no criminal record. Since there are plenty of scams out there, take your time to find a reputable recruiter. Read reviews, check references, and consider interviewing with a school before committing.

6. Become a WWOOFer

Working on an organic farm is a great opportunity to see different parts of the world. Although you will be responsible for your travel costs to the farm, you will receive free accommodation and meals. You will work six to eight hours a day, which can be challenging, but you will learn about local agricultural practices and make some new friends along the way.

The WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) movement is growing around the world, and there are plenty of opportunities available. You can choose the host country and farm based on your preferences.

To get started, visit WWOOF’s website and select the country and the farm you want to work on.

7. Join the Peace Corps

The Peace Corps offers an amazing opportunity for people of all ages to make a meaningful impact on the world while travelling. You can choose to work in a sector that you’re passionate about, such as agriculture, education, health, or the environment.

The experience will not only be rewarding but also provide you with excellent career opportunities when you return. Furthermore, it will look great on your resume.

Assuming you’re a US citizen over the age of 18, the application process is pretty straightforward. Just visit the Peace Corps website to apply.

In conclusion, while travelling can be expensive, there are many unconventional ways to see the world within your budget. You can gain life-changing experiences, meet new friends, and build your resume, all while exploring different parts of the world. So, where do you want your next adventure to take you?