Freelancers on the Move – the Ups and Downs

There are more and more freelancers in the world that travel in addition to working. All a freelancer needs is a stable internet connection and they are good to go. Whether it’s designers, programmers, or content creators, the job at hand is very flexible regarding location. What is that life like?

Accommodations

If you want to travel the world, you always need somewhere to stay. Youth hostels are a good choice for backpackers, but not so much for workers. If you are making enough money, you can try motels and the like, though this is not always possible, as freelancing positions don’t always pay enough for this extravagant lifestyle. Your best bet would be to stay with friends in different countries and be ready to move on quickly.

Finances

As stated before, freelancers aren’t paid much, so many of them supplement their income by working part-time at restaurants and hotels. The great thing about their type of work is that they can take a break whenever they please, so focusing on a part-time job before moving on is always a solid option. Just make sure all of the arrangements are clear and honored.

Internet

One of the drawbacks is needing a stable internet connection wherever you go. Travel bloggers use free Wi-Fi and mobile hotspots, but some places are so remote this is not always a valid option. Because of this, freelancers have to stay away from secluded areas, including exotic islands, in fear of losing touch with clients and the audience.

Why Would You Want to Be a Freelancer?

First of all, you are your own boss. If you’ve ever worked in retail or a toxic environment of any kind, you will understand the importance of doing things on your terms. Freelancers choose when they want to work and how much they want to work. If we exclude the traveling freelancers, these hard-working individuals are free to spend quality time with their family and friends. More often than not, full-time jobs get in the way of attending important events in other people’s lives.

Choosing your own time and breaks is less stressful than working 9-5, five days a week  – and that’s in cases where companies treat their workers fairly. It’s not uncommon for people to work 10 or 12 hours in some cases, with no increase in income. Traveling as a freelancer gives you the option of seeing the world while working. In more ways than one, you are your boss, so on one is stopping you from working excessively if you choose to do so, but the point is that no one forces you to do it, either.