Money-Making Ideas to Help You Save for Travel
Let’s be honest, travel costs money.
But that doesn’t mean it has to stay a “someday” dream. If your passport is calling and your bank account isn’t quite there yet, it’s time to get creative.
Here are some realistic, flexible money-making ideas you can start today to get those travel funds flowing.
Declutter & Sell What You Don’t Need
We all have things lying around that we no longer use. Old clothes, electronics, furniture, books—turn that clutter into cash!
Try:
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Vinted, Depop, or Poshmark for clothes
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Facebook Marketplace for furniture or bulkier items
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eBay for electronics and collectables
It’s a win-win: more space and more money for your trip.
Find out more about how you can make money selling your old stuff on Vinted
Offer a Skill Online
Are you creative, tech-savvy, or handy with words? Platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and PeoplePerHour are great for selling skills like:
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Graphic design
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Writing and editing
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Virtual assistant tasks
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Social media management
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Voiceovers or video editing
You set your own rates and schedule, so it’s ideal as a side hustle.
Take on Local Gigs
Sometimes the quickest way to earn is right outside your door. Think:
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Pet sitting or dog walking (local Facebook groups)
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Babysitting
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Cleaning or organising jobs
Post in community groups or drop a flyer in local cafes to get noticed.
Start a Small Side Hustle
You don’t need a huge business plan—just something simple that generates a bit of extra income.
Some ideas:
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Create and sell digital printables on Etsy (planners, travel checklists, art prints)
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Candle making, resin crafts, or homemade treats for markets
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Offer resume writing or CV help for students/job seekers
Every little sale brings you one step closer to your trip.
Use Cash Back & Survey Apps
These won’t make you rich, but they can absolutely cover the cost of a cheap flight or two.
Try apps like:
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Swagbucks or InboxDollars for paid surveys
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TopCashback, Rakuten, or Quidco for cashback when shopping
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Receipt Hog or Shopmium to earn money just by snapping your grocery receipts
Pro tip: set up a dedicated “travel fund” account and send your earnings straight there.
Rent Out a Room or Your Space
Got a spare room or heading out of town for a few days? Consider renting your space on Airbnb or Booking.com if it’s allowed where you live.
Even short weekend stays can add up fast. If that’s not an option, you could even offer storage space in your garage via sites like Storemates.
Do a Temporary Wardrobe Purge
While you're prepping for your next trip, why not do a spending pause and rent out your own wardrobe?
Try apps like By Rotation or HURR to rent out high-quality clothes, shoes, or bags that just sit in your closet.
Not only does it save someone else from buying fast fashion, it funds your next adventure too.
Teach What You Know
There’s something you know that someone else wants to learn.
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Teach English online (with or without a degree)
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Run a beginner’s art or craft workshop locally
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Offer tutoring sessions in a subject you’re strong in
You’d be surprised how many people are willing to pay for knowledge or creative skills.
Pick Up a Seasonal or Part-Time Job
Short-term, flexible jobs like bar work, catering, or retail around the holidays can seriously boost your bank balance quickly.
Set yourself a target: “Every Saturday shift goes into my travel jar.” Watch it grow faster than you expect.
And Finally: Cut the Unnecessary Subscriptions
Not a money-maker per se, but worth including. Pause or cancel:
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Streaming services you barely use
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Gym memberships you’re not making the most of
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Monthly subscription boxes that don’t bring real value
Put what you would have spent into your travel fund. It adds up, trust me.
Final Thought
Saving for travel doesn’t have to feel like a sacrifice. Think of it as a mini mission- a challenge that gets you even more hyped for the trip ahead. A little hustle now means more beach days, city strolls, and mountain views later.
What’s your go-to side hustle or saving strategy? Let me know if you want ideas tailored to your lifestyle!
