Working Holiday Ideas: 8 Ways to Earn Money and Travel the World

Working holiday ideas can vary in location, duration, industry, and calling. There’s so much to do that there’s always something for everyone.

Everyone can benefit from some time away doing something different, so if you’ve got anything from a few months to a year to fill with new experiences, here are 8 working ideas that will change your routine and your life.

Main countries: US, Canada

We’re biased, but summer camp is one of (if not the) best of all working holiday ideas, and one which is suitable for nearly everyone.

Summer camp is the quintessential US working holiday. Summer camp spans 10 weeks, a good amount of time to switch your day-to-day routine up, but not too long that you’re dropping your whole life for. Running from June to August means it’s excellent for students, but it’s certainly not limited to just those in education. Summer camp is open to anyone 18+, and with camp inclusions such as your food, accommodation, and a wage included, it’s the most comprehensive working holiday in the USA ideas around.

If you’re after the most fun, least fuss, and with a full support structure around you for your time working away, then summer camp is perfect for you.

Main countries: Canada, US, New Zealand, Japan, Argentina

Ski seasons are hugely popular for those who love the slopes.

They’re one of the most well-known seasons thanks to the popularity of skiing and snowboarding and the opportunity to mix business with pleasure. You’ll often get a ski pass (or heavily discounted) if working for one of the main employers, and the chance to ski after work is not one that comes around regularly at home.

With tight-knit ski communities in the likes of Argentina, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, and many others, there are global opportunities throughout the year for ski-fanatics.

Main countries: Australia, New Zealand

Gap years are the ultimate working holiday, thanks to the length of time you can go for.

Most working holiday gap years are exactly that; a year. This is a big chunk of time away to immerse yourself in somewhere new, and the amount you can gain from that is enormous. Traditionally, Australia and New Zealand have been key gap year destinations, thanks to the common language and the willingness to employ those from the UK. However, thanks to the UK’s links with particular countries, you can find loads of working holiday destinations, including Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and many more.

If you’re looking for a longer-term work placement, such as working holidays in America, then gap years are the way to go.

Main countries: US, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Madrid, Tokyo

Being an intern is the perfect CV booster. for those who are intent on making an impact within a particular industry or sector.

Not only can you gain invaluable experience with a relevant business, but you’ll develop a host of soft and hard skills by living abroad. It’s a real eye-opener to see how things can be done differently within your industry and will provide you with a whole new perspective to take back with you.

Internships can be completed nearly anywhere, with major industry hubs of the US, Madrid, Paris, Singapore, Japan, and more being popular for work-focused individuals.

Main countries: Global

For some, working abroad is a calling, not just a job.

Completing a volunteering project or humanitarian work provides one of the most impactful ways to spend time abroad. More often than not, you’ll be contributing to vital efforts in making a difference in a community that needs it. It could be volunteering at a wildlife reserve in Asia, working at a hospital in Africa, or even helping with relief efforts in a country that desperately needs support.

If you want to make the most significant possible impact with your time, this is undoubtedly high on the list.

Main countries: Global

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a long-established working holiday idea, allowing people to use their knowledge of the English language to teach others.

You first complete a course which goes over key competencies and how to deliver set information abroad before going to a country of your choice to pass on that knowledge. It’s a great way to use something you know to inspire a new audience in a location you may never have been to before.

TEFL isn’t just limited to people doing English Language, either. It’s open to anyone with a good grasp of English, so it’s the perfect opportunity for those who want to expand their experience in teaching or working with young adults.

Main countries: Global

Those with a naturally caring nature or who love kids will no doubt have looked into au-pairing at some point.

Being an au-pair means supporting a family with their young children, often being the go-to person for family support. This can include helping around the home, taking the kids on excursions, doing the school run, and overall, being a positive influence in their lives.

It’s a demanding yet rewarding role, which for those who love kids will no doubt take to easily.

Main countries: Spain, Greece

For the social butterflies, a party season abroad is a way to earn money whilst letting off steam.

Many of us will go on mates’ holidays at some point, which may be to destinations with a party atmosphere. Most countries have their own place where you can go to dance the night away, and due to the number of people who speak English, there’s a demand for English-speaking staff to cover roles. Whether that be as a tour rep, bartender, or sales representative, there’s always something to do based on your personality.

Businesses are always looking for good staff in the major tourist hubs of Ibiza, Ayia Napa, Zante, Benidorm etc., it just all depends on what type of place suits you.

If you’re looking for working holiday ideas, this list will provide inspiration on some of the most popular ways to get working abroad.

There’s something for everyone, regardless of where you want to go or what you want to do. Yet if you decide that a working holiday in the USA is for you, we're here to help.

As long as you take the time to research, plan, and ultimately make it happen, your next trip away can be one that you’ll remember for a lifetime.