The ability to see the world while earning a paycheck might
just be the new American Dream. With over 38% of millennials currently
freelancing in some fashion, it's a concept that's becoming less “dream” and
more “reality.” Many people use these jobs to make a living working from home, but as laptop prices become more
affordable and Wi-Fi becomes more available, there are fewer barriers every day
to making a living on the open road. Want to join the movement? Here are a few
jobs that you should consider if you'd like to unshackle from a traditional
desk or retail job.
Content Writer
If you enjoy writing and have a good grasp of grammar and
storytelling, you might want to check out content writing. Individuals working
as writers typically solicit projects from "mill" sites that list
jobs available. These jobs can be as small as Twitter updates written for businesses
to longer "white papers" that take on an essay-like length and depth
for a given subject. One of the more stable online jobs, there's never a lack
of businesses that need work like articles, blogs, and even product
descriptions done.
Note: You'll need a
payment account, such as Paypal, in order to get paid.
Stock Trader
One of the most well-known ways to make a living on your own
schedule, stock trading holds a great deal of promise for those that show
proficiency. It requires a solid understanding of any markets you're trading
in, but it also has nearly unlimited earning potential for the right
individuals. You'll need a good laptop and a reliable internet connection, but
trading on the road can open up a world of possibilities for travel and life
experiences without needing to punch a clock or answer to an overbearing boss.
It can be helpful to have a subscription to useful resources such as industry
news sites, stock trading classes or courses, or newsletters known for
smart stock picks.
Secret Shopper /
Reviewer
One of the more challenging on-the-road jobs, this position
requires you to do a little research and weed out scams and fly-by-night
companies before committing. As a general rule of thumb, you should never pay
money for access to "lists" of job opportunities: more often than
not, these are simply culled from publicly-available information and job boards
and filled with positions that have already closed. Look for review opportunities
that come from known businesses or organizations, and don't be shy about
looking up reviews on those companies themselves.
Note: A reputable
review company—either for products or experiences, such as hotels—will pay for
your products or services upfront and won't require you to submit information
for reimbursement at a later date.
Vehicle Advertising
While not as lucrative an opportunity as some of the other
jobs on this list, partnering with a company that pays you to "wrap"
your car in a vinyl sign or a specially-made window shade can be a great source
of passive income. If you're planning on driving through populated areas, this
is an excellent way to make money doing the driving you were already planning
to do!
Note: Most car signage
companies will require you to have a newer, dent-free car, so if your ride is
looking a little ragged, this might not be the right opportunity for your
needs.
Promotional Agent
Product launch parties, demonstrations, and seasonal displays
all need to be set up, staffed and documented—so why not earn a living doing it
yourself? Promotional companies routinely search for enthusiastic "brand
ambassadors" to talk up their products at special events nationwide and
even worldwide, so if you're young, energetic and attractive, it's worth
looking into!
Note: Most companies
that hire for these positions and pay for travel will ask you for a headshot
and, ideally, some experience either modeling or performing in a brand
representative capacity at trade shows or similar events.
If you're tired of being "trapped" in your town or
job and aren't sure what to do about it, why not consider breaking free and
seeing the world in a whole new way? If you have a phone, a laptop and an
entrepreneurial spirit, there's no reason why you can't earn a great living
while taking in some of the greatest sights in the country, or even the world.
