Gig work is the nomad’s dream when it comes to income opportunities. It’s a great option for people looking to supplement their income, people in between jobs, or full time travelers! Gig work offers control over your schedule and quick payouts, making it a great fit for our current economy. But…. what is gig work really??
Gig work is a form of independent contractor that works by project, shift, or for a short period of time. It’s different from other 1099 positions because it’s usually for only a day or single shift at a time. Many times, companies will hire gig workers when they are temporarily short staffed, need extra help for an event, or have an inconsistent need for staff.
You’ve probably heard musicians say they’re playing a gig? It’s the same concept but for different skill sets. Your gig could be anything from housekeeping at a hotel to bike technician to warehouse work. Most (but not all) gig work doesn’t require experience, so you can get started really quickly with minimal effort. To be a successful gig worker, you just need to show up on time, wear appropriate clothing (closed-toe shoes, black shirt, etc.), and know where to look for the gigs!
Here are our favorite gig work apps for income opportunities with no experience:
- Wonolo: we used wonolo while traveling through the US to supplement income, and we’ve had some pretty cool gigs! Mike was actually offered full time positions at every gig he worked. Use code TAYLOR2159 for a $25 bonus after your first shift! This app is the easiest to get started with gig work immediately.
- GigSmart: this app has gigs, longer-term jobs, and remote opportunities all within one platform. We’ve found gigs on this app pay slightly higher than gigs on wonolo, but they are a little harder to get.
- Instawork: this gig work app has a tiered system where you can gain skills to get better positions and higher pay. Some of the positions require certifications and/or special equipment (like a chef’s knife). That means you could land higher-paying gigs with positions that have more requirements! Use this link to get a $25 bonus after your first gig.
- LABR: this resource focuses on labor-related job with set hourly rates. All gigs start off at $15/hour (although, several have $50 bonuses right now). The more gigs you work that month, the more bonuses and higher pay. The top rate is $20/hour + bonuses. LABR is focused primarily in the Midwest region of the US. You can mention Taylor Palmer or Roam Away From Home referred you during registration for a $50 bonus after your first gig! If not, you still get $25 after your first gig 🙂
Watch this YouTube for more detailed information and what you can expect with gig work:
Gig work isn’t the only way to take advantage of the “gig economy”. Freelance work, seasonal positions, and on-site contract jobs are also good income opportunities for nomads, people looking for work, and workers that are tired of their current 9-5. We truly have done just about every income opportunity there is (legal income that is…) because there are so many different ways to get financial stability outside of a typical full time job.
Check out our Job Search Resource Guide to see where we find different jobs and subscribe to our YouTube for more full time travel and remote income content! Good luck finding that next gig!