The Best Winter and Summer Jobs Abroad for Expats

International travel can feel unattainable; too expensive, risky, or difficult based on world events, personal situations, and the expected, “normal” trajectory of individual lives and careers. However, as many can attest, traveling and working abroad is an incredible way to enhance your life, expand your interests, meet new people, and further the goals you have for your future!

Go abroad any season of the year! Check out our top expat jobs.

For most, a seasonal job opportunity makes sense and offers just as many benefits as a longer term gig. The best jobs for expats vary in type and duration based on location, experience, and availability, but there’s definitely something for everyone!

5 best seasonal jobs for traveling

Whether it’s winter, spring, summer, or fall, seasonal jobs overseas are ready for you. Before we give you the eight top seasonal jobs, these five “fields” are the best categories for travelers to choose from.

1. Hospitality

Your summer job could be sailing around the world!

• Why? For those looking for experience in the hospitality industry, or those in between other job opportunities, this type of employment offers flexibility and is often a lot of fun as well! From cruise ships to ski resorts, a seasonal job in the hospitality industry can take you around the world.
• You may get tips on top of your seasonal salary, in addition to room and board. If you enjoy meeting new people, hospitality may be a great fit for you - you’ll be greeting guests from far-off places while also being introduced to other international staff!
• Season? Hospitality jobs are usually available year-round!
• Where? The best destinations for this type of work include resort-heavy areas, locations with adventure and leisure activities that draw tourists, and travel hubs where there are typically a lot of travelers and a need for extra hands during their busiest season(s).

2. Camp Counselor & Trip Leader

• Why? If you enjoy working with children and youth, consider sharing your passion for travel as a camp counselor or guide abroad. This type of position comes in many forms: you could be leading sing-a-longs in front of a campfire with a group of kids, guiding young adults on a jungle trek, or teaching salsa dancing lessons to teenagers.
• Jobs for these expats may require CPR, First Aid, and other training, but most likely this will be covered by your employer. Additionally, room and board is typically provided. Leading trips can be demanding, but also extremely rewarding; you’ll be inspiring future global citizens, while becoming one yourself!
• Season? Typically, these types of opportunities are available in the spring and summer.
• Where? South America, Europe, New Zealand, and Australia are usually the primary destinations for these types of jobs for expats.

3. Education

• Why? Teaching English as a Foreign Language with a teaching certification is a great way to see the world while maintaining employment. Many organizations and government programs offer support and incentives for potential ESL teachers to work abroad from a semester to a year and beyond.
• This is a very secure way to get a job as an expat, since you will likely have a network of support, a good salary based on cost of living, and at times, room and board or help finding an affordable place to live. You also don’t have to have a degree in education to find opportunities, although a teaching certificate is highly recommended since some experience will be required.
• Season? School start times around the world differ, so this will vary based on location of your placement.You may also find a tutoring position available year-round!
• Where? South Korea, Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates, and Spain are some of the best countries to teach English abroad based on availability, salary, and standard of living.

4. Au Pair

Au pairing means getting paid to live in your dream destination—and possibly mastering a foreign language!

• Why? If being a trip leader or camp counselor isn’t for you, but you’re experienced at childcare and would enjoy spending time abroad in a family setting, being an Au Pair may be a great option.
• You’ll pick up another language much more quickly with a host family, and have the support of your program provider if you run into any issues. Depending on your location, the pay can be rewarding, but making a lasting impact on the children in your care will be even more so.
• Season? Year-round
• Where? Locations that have a demand for Au Pairs include, but are not limited to, France, the USA, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, China, Switzerland, Spain, and Australia.

5. Medicine

• Why? If you work in medicine/healthcare and are thinking of taking time to travel, consider using your skills during a work abroad experience. Those with medical knowledge (EMTs, paramedics, nurses, doctors, and physician assistants) are often needed at clinics, hospitals, shelters, and other locations around the world. You’d be making a difference in a big way, all while exploring a new place and culture.
• Season? Year-round
• Where? The United Kingdom, Israel, New Zealand, Norway, Canada, and Australia are known to have healthcare shortages. Developing nations are also in need of healthcare workers, although in these cases organizations are most likely looking for volunteers over paid staff.

Get matched with 5 seasonal jobs abroad for FREE

3 best winter seasonal jobs

Grab your snowsuit and hit the slopes all while getting paid.

1. EA Ski & Snowboard Instructor Training: Become a Ski Instructor in Canada – Training and Job Included

• Why? This winter job abroad opportunity is a true adventure for any thrill seeker. EA Ski & Snowboard will train you as a ski instructor and let you choose to work at one of 7 world-class resorts!
• The qualifications you’ll receive are recognised by the International Ski Instructors Association (ISIA) which means you’ll be able to work at other ski resorts around the world. Plus, you’ll score an employee lift pass and get to explore the natural beauty of Canada!
• Where? Canada: Banff, Calgary, Vancouver, Whistler
• Read EA Ski & Snowboard Instructor Training reviews

2. Oyster Worldwide: Farm Work in Australia

• Why? Did you know that summer in Australia is December, January, and February? This means that you can score a job or participate in a gap year program when other opportunities may be closed for the winter. This winter job abroad in the sun is particularly attractive to those who want to work outside, learn new skills and trades in a rural setting, and explore the Australian outback!
• Where? Rural areas in Australia
• Read Oyster Worldwide reviews

3. Spirit Cultural Exchange: Culinary Internships in America

• Why? Located in the US at 4 to 5-star luxury hotel properties, these are some of the best winter seasonal jobs.You’ll receive specialized training in the culinary arts from world-renowned chefs and be able to add an internship to your CV. Placement assistance, application processing, and support on this program is unparalleled!
• Where? United States
• Read Spirit Cultural Exchange reviews

4 opportunities for summer work abroad

If you never got to experience summer camp as a kid, try it out as a counselor!

1. International Camps Network: Outdoor Programs Specialist Internship

• Why? On this 3-month to 6-month adventure of a lifetime you’ll score outdoor activities training, leadership sessions, and the opportunity for promotion at camps across Europe! This summer work abroad experience is ideal for those who enjoy working with kids, have a passion for intercultural exchange, a love of the outdoors, and want to meet people from all over the world.
• Where? Bavaria, Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hannover, Munich (Germany)
• Read International Camps Network reviews

2. Instituto Hemingway: Jobs and internships in Spain

• Why? From hospitality management to teaching English, Instituto Hemingway provides placements across a diverse array of industries and fields. You’ll also get two-four weeks of intensive Spanish courses to help you adjust to your new home! You’ll gain real work abroad experience in a beautiful country. Summer work abroad has never looked so good!
• Where? Multiple locations across Spain
• Read Instituto Hemingway reviews

3. Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI): Giant Tortoise Breeding Center Volunteer in Galapagos

• Why? As a member of the research and zookeeping staff at Galapagos National Park, you’ll be aiding efforts to conserve the native environment and the animal life that calls it home, specifically giant tortoises.
• Living with a host family alleviates the cost of room and board, and provides a unique cultural experience. While not your typical summer work abroad, it’s sure to be a time in your life you’ll never forget!
• Where? Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
• Read IOI reviews

4. IPSL: Refugees, Migration, Resilience & Micro-Enterprise in Greece

• Why? If you’re interested in history, refugee work, youth development, and social activism, consider this customizable, short term summer work abroad program in Greece with IPSL! FAFSA and AmeriCorps Awards can be utilized for this program, and you’ll be learning and utilizing practical skills around community development and organizing.
• Customize your classes and become a true advocate for social justice and positive change. You can earn up to 15 academic credits while adding to your real-world experiences.
• Where? Thessaloniki, Greece
• Read IPSL reviews

Have a productive and fulfilling season traveling abroad!

Support your travels any time of year with seasonal jobs! It’s a win-win.

The best seasonal jobs for traveling are waiting for you! You’ll be becoming a true citizen of the world by working and living abroad, not just another tourist. Whether you’re taking a gap year or simply looking for a change of pace, the best jobs for expats offer more than just a way to travel internationally. The experiences you’ll have will enhance your resume and expand your mind in ways you may not expect!

Explore all seasonal jobs and gap year programs abroad!