Do any good paying traveling jobs exist that I can jump into right after I get my high school diploma? I want to explore while working, and preferably earn a decent salary without a degree first.
Absolutely, there are a number of careers you might consider that combine traveling and good pay without the need for a college degree.
The first that comes to mind is becoming a Flight Attendant. This job allows you to travel extensively as part of your routine responsibilities. It requires a high school diploma and airlines typically provide training programs upon hiring. The median annual wage for flight attendants was reported to be around $59,000 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but bear in mind that starting salaries are typically lower.
Another option is to consider becoming a Merchant Marine or a Commercial Fisherman. These jobs involve a lot of time spent at sea and can offer opportunities to see different parts of the world. They involve physical labor and can be challenging, but no college degree is required. The earning potential can also be quite good with experience.
Similarly, if you've got a knack for driving and don't mind long stretches on the road, becoming a Truck Driver could be an option. In this role, you’d transport goods across the country while seeing different states. The median annual wage for such a role was about $47,000 as of 2020.
Lastly, if you have more of an entrepreneurial spirit and a flair for creativity, you might consider becoming a Travel Blogger or a Social Media Influencer. Although it can take some time to build up a following, successful individuals in these roles can earn a very good living and can get sponsored to travel all over the world. Remember, however, that these jobs might require a lot of work, self-advertising, and hustle at the beginning.
Remember that the most important things are to explore different opportunities and find something that you enjoy doing and fits your lifestyle. Good luck with your search!
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