Travelling the world while making a living sounds like a dream, but many wonder how to fund such an adventure. Teaching English abroad is one of the most effective ways to finance travel. With the rise in demand for English language instruction worldwide, particularly in non-English-speaking countries, teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) offers an exciting opportunity to explore new cultures while earning a sustainable income. This article will explore how to fund your travels by teaching English through TEFL and provide practical advice for making this dream a reality.

What is TEFL?

TEFL means Teaching English as a Foreign Language and teaching English to non-native speakers. You don't need to be a professional teacher to get started; many employers only require a TEFL certification, which you can earn online or through in-person courses. TEFL teachers are in demand worldwide, from bustling cities in Asia to remote areas of South America, making it a viable and flexible option for travel funding.

How Does TEFL Help Fund Your Travels?

1. Paid Jobs Worldwide

One of the most significant advantages of teaching English abroad is that it provides a steady income while living in a foreign country. Many TEFL jobs offer a competitive salary, often enough to cover living expenses, with additional benefits such as housing or airfare reimbursement. Some countries, like South Korea, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates, even offer excellent salaries and perks, allowing you to save money while you travel.

Here are some examples of the salary ranges and benefits by region:

  • Asia (e.g., China, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam): $1,500 - $3,000 monthly. Employers often provide free housing, airfare reimbursement, and sometimes even meals.
  • Europe (e.g., Spain, Czech Republic, Poland): $800 - $2,000 monthly. While salaries are generally lower than in Asia, the cost of living is also lower in many Eastern European countries, which means you can still live comfortably.
  • Latin America (e.g., Mexico, Argentina, Colombia): $600 - $1,500 monthly. Although salaries may be lower, the lower cost of living allows teachers to cover expenses and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.

In countries like these, you can teach and travel on a modest income without needing significant savings upfront. The savings potential increases if you take advantage of perks like free housing and paid vacations, which are often included in contracts.

1. Flexible Work Options

In addition to full-time teaching jobs, part-time and online teaching opportunities allow you to work from virtually anywhere. For example, online English tutoring companies like VIPKid, EF Education First, and iTalki allow teachers to work from home or while travelling, enabling them to set their own hours and make money wherever they are.

Online teaching typically involves teaching one-on-one lessons or small groups via video calls. Many online platforms pay between $15 - $25 per hour, and as a freelance teacher, you can choose how many hours you want to work. This flexibility means you can work around your travel schedule, combining work and exploration without being tied to a fixed location.

3. Low Initial Investment for Certification

Unlike other professions that require years of schooling or expensive degrees, becoming TEFL-certified is relatively affordable and accessible. An introductory TEFL course can be completed online for anywhere between $200 and $1,000, depending on the level and accreditation of the program. This is a one-time investment that opens up job opportunities in countries around the world.

For those who already have a bachelor's degree, some employers may even offer additional training and support to ensure you're prepared for the classroom. The low barrier to entry makes teaching English abroad an attractive option for those seeking an immediate and cost-effective way to fund their travels.

4. Language Immersion and Cultural Experience

Beyond earning a living, teaching English abroad offers an immersive cultural experience invaluable to personal growth. As a teacher, you'll have the opportunity to interact with students and locals, which helps you learn new languages, customs, and perspectives. Many travellers find that this aspect of teaching abroad enriches their journey in ways that traditional tourism simply cannot.

Living and working in a foreign country also often leads to unique travel opportunities. Teachers typically have long breaks between terms, making exploring neighbouring cities or countries easy. In some locations, you may also have the option to travel on paid holidays, offering even more opportunities to explore.

5. Building Long-Term Financial Security

Teaching English abroad can also be a stepping stone to other career opportunities for those who want to travel and build financial security. Many teachers eventually transition to roles like curriculum design, teacher training, or working with international educational organisations. By staying in a country long-term or teaching at an institution with a solid reputation, you can save money for future travel or investments.

Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings While Teaching English

  • Choose High-Demand Locations: Countries like China, South Korea, and the UAE offer English teachers the best salaries and benefits.
  • Leverage Online Teaching: If you prefer to move around frequently, consider teaching English online to maintain a flexible schedule.
  • Cut Down on Living Expenses: Look for jobs that include free housing or transportation to maximise your savings while living abroad.
  • Save and Budget: Make the most of your earnings by creating a budget and saving a portion of your salary for future travel or emergencies.