With the advancement of technology and the internet, more teachers are transitioning to online education for greater flexibility in both time and location. All that’s needed for a successful online teaching career is a quiet environment and a stable internet connection.

Many online teachers take advantage of the freedom to work from anywhere to explore the world, as long as they have the right tools and software. However, traveling constantly and always being on the go can get expensive. If you’re a digital nomad teacher or thinking of becoming one, here are 9 practical tips to help you save money on the road!

1) Be flexible with flight dates and times.

One of the easiest ways to save money on travel is to stay flexible with your flight dates and times. Airlines often have significant price differences based on the day of the week and time of day. Using flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Skiplagged, and setting alerts for price drops can help you find the best deals. Also, consider booking flights during off-peak seasons or times when fewer people are traveling.

2) Eat at local restaurants or cook at home.

Dining out can quickly add up, especially in touristy areas. To save money, eat where the locals eat. Local restaurants offer a more authentic cuisine experience at a fraction of the price of international chain restaurants. Even better, buy fresh ingredients from local markets and cook your own meals. This not only cuts down on costs but also allows you to experience local culture in a unique way.

3) Walk or take public transportation.

Instead of relying on taxis or ride-sharing apps to get you from point A to point B, opt for walking if it’s a reasonable distance, or taking public transportation. Many cities have excellent and affordable public transit systems that can take you almost anywhere. Walking is also a great way to explore a new place and discover hidden gems that you might miss when using other forms of transport.

4) Do a house swap or house-sitting.

Accommodations can be one of the biggest expenses for digital nomads. To save money, consider home swaps where you allow someone from the place you’re going to stay in your home while you simultaneously stay in theirs. Platforms like TrustedHousesitters or Nomador allow you to stay in comfortable homes for free in exchange for looking after a house or pets. It’s a win-win situation that can save you thousands of dollars over time.

5) Travel light with only a carry-on.

Packing light not only saves you from lugging around heavy bags but can also help you avoid checked baggage fees. Traveling with only a carry-on means you can move more freely, get through airports faster, and reduce the chances of lost luggage. Plus, you learn to live with less, which is a money-saver in itself.

6) Limit souvenirs to things you actually use.

It’s tempting to buy souvenirs from every place you visit, but those costs can add up and clutter your luggage. Instead, focus on purchasing items that are practical and useful, like a unique kitchen tool, a handmade piece of clothing, or a reusable shopping bag. These types of souvenirs are not only memorable but also serve a purpose.

7) Use free software to host your classes.

As an online teacher, there are plenty of free tools and software available to conduct classes without the need for expensive subscriptions. If you teach for a company, then the teaching platform should be provided by the company. If you’re running your own classes, platforms like Zoom and Google Meet offer free versions that are often sufficient for most teaching needs. This way, you can keep your overhead costs low while still providing quality education.

8 Find free admission dates to museums and other attractions.

Many museums, galleries, and attractions offer free admission days or discounted rates at certain times. Before moving to a new city, research these opportunities to take advantage of free or reduced-cost cultural experiences. A big part of being a digital nomad teacher is to experience local cultures and do fun activities without breaking the bank.

9) Buy clothes at second-hand stores.

Second-hand stores or thrift shops are fantastic places to find quality clothing at a fraction of the cost. Not only can you find unique pieces that suit different climates and cultures, but you can also save money while supporting sustainable fashion practices. This is especially useful if you need to adapt your wardrobe to a new location. As you buy new pieces of clothing in a new location, you can donate a few pieces of clothing that you have, thereby not increasing the amount of luggage you have to carry around.

We hope you enjoyed these money-saving tips for digital nomad teachers! Are there any other ways you save money while teaching on the go? Share your tips in the comments below!