Traveling the world doesn’t have to mean draining your savings or putting your life on pause. If you’re looking for a way to explore new countries, meet amazing people, and immerse yourself in different cultures—while earning money—then TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) might be exactly what you’re looking for.
TEFL opens doors to paid teaching positions worldwide. From remote villages to bustling capital cities, English teachers are in high demand. And the best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned educator to get started. With a TEFL certification, you can launch a life-changing adventure and actually fund it as you go.
Why TEFL Is a Smart Way to Travel
Let’s break down exactly how TEFL can help you travel and support yourself financially.
1. You Get Paid to Live Abroad
One of the most attractive aspects of teaching English overseas is the salary. While it varies by country, in many places, it’s more than enough to live comfortably and travel on the side. In countries like South Korea, China, and Vietnam, schools often provide free housing, paid airfare, and bonuses, making it easy to save or fund trips during holidays.
Even in lower-paying regions like parts of Latin America or Europe, your income will typically cover rent, food, and weekend adventures, especially if you’re smart about budgeting.
2. Low Start-Up Costs with Fast Return
Getting TEFL certified doesn’t have to be expensive. Many top providers offer affordable courses, and some even offer scholarships or government funding. Once you land your first job, it’s common to earn back your investment within a few months.
Think of it as a one-time cost that pays off with a job, income, and the ability to travel long-term.
3. Teaching Online = Total Flexibility
Prefer the digital nomad lifestyle? TEFL opens the door to online teaching. With just a certificate, a laptop, and stable internet, you can teach students around the world—from anywhere you like. Backpacking through Southeast Asia? House-sitting in Spain? As long as you’re online, you’re good to go.
This flexibility makes it easier than ever to work while travelling, and online teaching is growing rapidly as more schools and students transition to virtual platforms.
4. Built-in Perks That Save You Money
Many TEFL jobs come with serious benefits:
- Free housing or housing allowances
- Health insurance
- Transportation reimbursement
- Free or subsidized meals
- Paid vacation time
These perks reduce your daily living expenses, allowing more of your paycheck to go toward travel or savings.
Where Can You Teach with TEFL?
Once certified, you can teach in hundreds of destinations. Here are a few popular options:
- South Korea: High salaries, free housing, paid airfare, and bonuses
- Vietnam: Low cost of living, good pay, and a laid-back lifestyle
- Spain: Great for EU citizens, plus government-backed programs
- China: Huge demand for teachers, generous contracts
- Online: Teach from anywhere—perfect for travelers
Top 5 TEFL Certifications to Kickstart Your Journey
There are dozens of TEFL providers, but not all offer the same quality, support, or value. Here are five of the best, each with a solid reputation for helping travellers get certified and placed abroad.
1. The TEFL Institute USA
With a strong global reputation and thousands of successful graduates, The TEFL Institute USA offers internationally recognized online and in-person courses. They’re known for comprehensive student support, flexible learning options, and job placement assistance. Their summer teaching programs in places like Chile and Spain are ideal for those wanting short-term teaching experience while traveling.
It’s a great pick for American travelers or anyone looking for a mix of structure, freedom, and global job access.
2. Premier TEFL
Premier TEFL is a traveler favorite thanks to its wide range of courses and impressive internship opportunities. They offer scholarships that cover up to 97% of your program fees, which can include accommodation, meals, and in-country orientation. These internships often take place in destinations like Thailand, Romania, or Vietnam.
They also provide lifetime job support and flexible course formats, making them a great option if you’re cost-conscious but serious about teaching abroad.
3. TEFL Explorer
TEFL Explorer offers online training that’s ideal for aspiring teachers seeking a straightforward and practical approach to certification. While they may not offer large funding packages or internships, their programs focus on confidence-building, methodology, and real-world classroom strategies.
They’re a solid choice if you’re self-motivated and already have your eyes set on a destination or online teaching career.
4. The TEFL Institute of Ireland
This Ireland-based provider is highly respected in Europe and internationally. One of their biggest advantages? Eligible students in Ireland can access Training Support Grants (TSGs) of up to €1,000 from the Irish government—making TEFL even more affordable.
They also provide career mentorship, job placement guidance, and flexible course options, including Level 5 qualifications.
5. UK TEFL
UK TEFL offers accessible, beginner-friendly courses designed to get you certified quickly and affordably. They focus on practical skills and flexible learning, with both online and classroom-based options across the UK. While they don’t offer as much in the way of funding or internships, their streamlined approach makes them perfect for those who want to hit the ground running.
A Day in the Life of a TEFL Traveler
What does life look like when you’re funding your travels through TEFL? Here’s a typical day for many first-time teachers abroad:
- Morning: Wake up in your apartment (provided by your school), grab coffee from a local café, and prep your lesson.
- Midday: Teach a few engaging classes, often with small groups or individual students.
- Afternoon: Free time! Explore local markets, take a language class, or hang out with fellow teachers.
- Evening: Dinner with locals or expats, then plan a weekend getaway to a nearby town or country.
It’s a balance of work, cultural immersion, and freedom, a lifestyle that’s hard to beat.
What to Expect: Pros & Cons
Like any job, teaching abroad comes with its share of highs and lows. Here’s a quick look:
How to Get Started
Here’s a simple 5-step plan to launch your TEFL-funded travel adventure:
- Choose a TEFL provider: Look for quality, support, and reviews.
- Pick your course: Online, in-person, or hybrid. Choose what suits your lifestyle.
- Explore funding options, such as scholarships, grants, or internships, which can significantly reduce costs.
- Get certified: Most courses can be completed in 4–12 weeks.
- Apply for jobs or internships: Many providers offer job placement help or access to exclusive job boards.
TEFL isn’t just a certificate, it’s a passport to a different kind of life. One where you don’t have to choose between work and travel. One where your classroom could be in Bangkok, Buenos Aires, or your own Airbnb while teaching online.
It’s a career path. It’s an adventure. And it’s one of the smartest ways to fund your global journey.
So, if you’re ready to explore the world, make money, and make a difference, TEFL might just be your ticket.
