Finding a remote job that lets you travel is more than a dream; it’s a real possibility in today’s work environment. However, landing the perfect gig requires more than browsing job listings and firing off resumes.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pinpoint a job that allows, possibly even encourages, a globe-trotting lifestyle. Read through to get a thorough answer to the common question: How do I find a remote job that allows me to travel?

Know Your Skillset and Job Market

Before anything else, do a deep dive into your skills. Are they compatible with remote work? Jobs in tech, marketing, writing, design, and customer service often offer remote positions. If your current skill set doesn’t align, consider taking online courses to acquire the necessary skills.

Websites like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer courses in various fields to enable you to work from anywhere in the world. Making yourself multi-skilled is the route to success when working while traveling.

Best Type of Companies to Work For

Not every company will allow you to travel while working remotely while employed with them. There are several legal reasons behind why this isn’t possible.

That said, a growing number of companies (called fully distributed) hire employees worldwide, making them more likely to have practices in place to allow their workforce to travel.

The first place to look if the company is fully distributed is to check their careers and about us page, which will include details about working culture.

You could also contact the company hiring manager or a recruiter by searching for them on LinkedIn. Make sure to research the company before applying for any remote opportunities.

Customize Your Resume and Portfolio

Your resume should scream, “I am a perfect fit for remote work!” List any previous remote work experience, whether freelance or part-time. Emphasize traits that make you an ideal remote worker: self-discipline, excellent time management, and strong communication skills.

If your field requires a portfolio (like writing, graphic design, or programming), make sure it’s up-to-date and accessible online.

Websites like GitHub for programmers or Behance for designers are good platforms for showcasing your work.

Where to Look for Jobs

1. Specialized Job Boards: Websites like We Work Remotely, Remote.co, and FlexJobs specialize in remote job listings. These websites feature jobs from companies that are comfortable with fully remote teams.

Browse through our guide on the best remote job boards for more options.

2. Company Websites: Companies known for a remote-first culture, like Buffer, Toptal, or InVision, regularly post job openings on their websites.

3. LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn’s job search feature for remote positions. Customize your LinkedIn profile to highlight any remote experience and skills that make you an ideal candidate for remote work.

4. Network: Reach out to friends, previous employers, or colleagues who might know of suitable openings. Networking is often the most effective job search strategy and makes finding jobs in the future easier.

Questions to Ask Before You Apply

When you find a job that interests you, don’t just hit the ‘Apply’ button. Take a moment to research the company. Do they support a work-travel lifestyle? Is the work expected to be carried out in a specific time zone? Are there mandatory meetings that might interfere with travel plans?

Sometimes, the job listings will answer these questions; other times, you may need to dig deeper, even going as far as to reach out to current employees through platforms like LinkedIn.

The Application Process

1. Tailored Cover Letter: Write a cover letter about your qualifications and why you are the perfect candidate for a remote role.

2. Follow-up: If you haven’t heard back within a reasonable time frame (usually 1-2 weeks), send a polite follow-up email.

3. Interview: Prepare for a remote interview, most likely over a video call. Have answers for typical remote work questions like, “How do you manage your time?” or “How do you handle remote team communication?”

Final Tips

1. Negotiate: Once the job offer is made, you can negotiate the terms to suit your travel lifestyle better. Whether it’s flexible hours, additional health benefits, or access to coworking spaces, ensure you get what you need to make your work-travel lifestyle sustainable.

2. Legal and Financial Consultation: Before accepting the job, consult a tax advisor regarding the tax implications of working remotely from different countries. Think about where you will spend most of your time during the year – will you apply for a nomad visa or move around often?

How Do I Find a Remote Job That Allows Me To Travel?

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to securing a remote job that allows you to fulfill your travel dreams while maintaining a steady income. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, but these steps offer a practical roadmap for turning the fantasy of working from anywhere into a functional reality.