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E3: How To Make Money On The Road

E3: How To Make Money On The Road

Lindsay Aman
August 14, 2024

E3: Make Money On The Road

This week’s edition of How To Make Money On The Road is packed with strategies to fund your vanlife adventures, from leveraging skills in writing, photography, and mechanical work to house and pet sitting. We also spotlight the Rise2Thrive initiative, which empowers nomadic entrepreneurs with mentorship and resources to boost their roadside ventures.

How To Make Money On The Road

For many vanlifers, funding their travels is a big concern. Fortunately, there are practical ways to earn while living the dream. Here’s a quick guide to some income-generating options you can explore:

Writing
Online writing can be a significant income source. Freelance content writing, copywriting, and blogging are all viable options. There are diverse opportunities, from scriptwriting to newsletter creation. I made a whole course about becoming an online content writer or you can check out my free online workshop.
Photography & Videography
You don't need a massive social media following to profit from photography. Whether it’s shooting Airbnb properties, product photos, or action shots, there’s money to be made. Selling stock photos and offering services to small businesses or events can also be lucrative. Check out Diandra Cazadora's story for inspiration.
Mechanical Work
If you’re skilled with engines, consider offering mechanical services to fellow travelers. Mobile repair services and consultations can be a great way to make money while helping others keep their adventures on track. Highlighted in our recent feature, Pall Mobile Mechanic offers a great example of this.
House Sitting and Pet Sitting
House and pet sitting can cover accommodation costs and offer unique travel experiences. Platforms like TrustedHousesitters and HouseSitMatch connect you with opportunities around the world, allowing you to live like a local while saving money. For real-life inspiration, check out Raychel's TikTok.
Teach AI Chatbots
AI jobs are growing. Companies like DataAnnotation offer opportunities with pay starting at $20 per hour, and coding jobs pay even more. Be prepared for a rigorous application process, but it’s a flexible way to earn from anywhere.
Selling Art + Jewelry
Vanlife events and markets are great for selling handmade art and jewelry. Whether it’s tattoos, macrame, or custom jewelry, these venues can provide both income and new connections. Check out @handpoked.by .ariane and IncognitaCrafts for inspiration.

Honorable Mentions:

Case Studies: Participating in case studies is an easy way to make extra cash.
Seasonal Work: Seasonal jobs can be rewarding but may require staying in one place. For inspiration, check out HallieTreks on TikTok.
DoorDash: For those with good gas mileage, food delivery can be an easy way to earn.
Dog Walking: Platforms like Rover offer opportunities to earn by walking dogs, though repeat customers may be rare.

Sustaining a vanlife lifestyle is entirely possible with creativity and persistence. Keep exploring, networking, and adapting to find what works best for you. If you have a unique way of making money on the road, share your story with us!

Nomad Business Feature: Rise2Thrive

Matt and Brooke are revolutionizing van life from their minivan in Canada by blending adventure, wellness, and business. Their mission is to transform fast food and make nutrition easy for nomads while fostering a community of like-minded adventurers.

Matt transitioned from a successful engineering career to exploring a new path after meeting Brooke in Sedona. Together, they created a unique 90 90-day transformation program that combines coaching with tailored supplements and meal replacements. “We blend actionable steps with emotional support,” Brooke explains, with Matt adding, “Our goal is to help clients achieve lasting change.”

Matt and Brooke are looking to partner with fellow nomads who share their vision of enhancing health and well-being on the road. Connect with them through their Rise2Thrive Instagram, Brooke’s Instagram, or Matt’s Instagram. For the full story, click here.

Where’s Reed?

Remember our friend Reed who had the terrifying bear encounter while biking the longest road in the world?

Right now he is in Prince George, Canada, and says “Last night was my first shower in one month and 1000 miles! So that was a borderline religious experience” Reed is hoping to cross into the United States in about two weeks and will continue his journey along the Pan-American Hwy.

(Also psst: keep posted because I think our paths may cross fairly soon!)

The Nomad Diaries is committed to supporting Reed the entire journey, and if you’re in a place to throw him a couple bucks for a shower, a spoke repair, or even just poutine to keep him peddling through Canada & beyond — you can click here, or scan the QR code below.

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