Living in Thailand’s paradise but need to keep your wallet full? Discover how you can make money online, enjoying your tropical life while keeping the cash flow positive. From freelance work to dropshipping, writing an ebook to becoming a virtual teacher, let’s unravel the endless opportunities waiting for you in the digital landscape.
Personally I started with a blog, wrote an eBook, created an online course and made my way from there. While this sounds easy, it took me nearly 2 years to make a decent (Western) income. However you can get started on several side gigs that I explore below, before you dive into the Digital Nomad world head on. So let’s have a look:
Find Freelance Work
Regardless of your skills, freelance work offers flexibility and the freedom to work from anywhere, including your beachside bungalow in Thailand. Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer serve as a platform connecting you with clients in need of your expertise. Web designing, graphic designing, content writing, digital marketing, and programming are some of the lucrative freelance opportunities that might just be a click away. When I started out with my blog, I also offered 5$ services to find suppliers in China for clients. Down the road I made a couple hundred $ with Fiverr in my first year. It certainly helped.
Dive into Web and Graphic Designing
Web and graphic designing are highly sought-after freelance jobs in the digital era. HTML, CSS, Javascript, WordPress; if these sound familiar, then web designing can be a lucrative pathway. Not a coder? Graphic design might be your realm, with platforms like Adobe Illustrator or Canva.
You can also get started by learning these skills on Youtube for free. Start with your own first blog and take it from there.
Explore Writing and Marketing
Got a way with words? Content writing, copywriting, or even ghostwriting for blogs and websites might just be your ticket. Digital marketing roles, such as SEO specialist, social media manager, or PPC analyst, are also on the rise. You could also offer your writing skills on sites like above (Fiverr, Upwork etc.)
Start a YouTube Channel
Lights, Camera, Action! Starting a YouTube channel can be a fun, creative, and profitable way to earn online. Be it travel vlogs showcasing Thailand’s picturesque landscapes, cookery shows focusing on Thai cuisine, or any other niche that sparks your interest, the YouTube world is your oyster. In today’s landscape with AI tools it is even easier than ever before to make for example faceless AI Youtube videos and channels.
Tips for Success on YouTube
- Consistency is key. Regular uploads boost your visibility.
- Engage with your audience through comments and likes.
- Don’t forget SEO. Use relevant keywords in your video title, description, and tags.
Start a Dropshipping Business
Interested in e-commerce but not keen on inventory hassles? Dropshipping is your answer. With platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Oberlo, you can create an online store, sell products, and let your supplier handle the shipping. It’s an ideal online business model with minimum risk and maximum scalability. Many people think that Dropshipping is dead – it is not. What is dead is to drop-ship 3$ items from China. What is still working are high ticket items drop shipped from your own country. For example a friend of mine dropships from a European supplier to his European customers.
Take Online Surveys
Filling out online surveys may not make you a millionaire, but it’s an easy way to supplement your income. Companies need consumer feedback, and they’re ready to pay for your opinions. Websites like Survey Junkie or Swagbucks are platforms where you can take online surveys for money. Is it possible to make a living with surveys? Hardly, but it adds up if you do other things as well.
Create a Blog
Writing about your experiences in Thailand? Or sharing tips for fellow expats? Blogging can be a profitable hobby. Implement SEO strategies, consistently create high-quality content, monetize with display ads or affiliate marketing, and watch your blog grow. Personally I run several websites and blogs that cover more than my rent. Like I mentioned above, I started out with a blog, built an audience and figured out later what I wanted to sell.
Write and Publish an eBook
Have you always dreamed of being an author? With platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, you can write and publish an eBook from the comfort of your Thai home. Self-help books, travel guides, fiction, or non-fiction, the choices are limitless. I have published more than 5 books since 2015 and they pay the power bill. I self-published my first eBook in 2015 (The Import Bible) and I made thousands of $ over the years.
Become a Virtual Teacher
Are you a whizz at languages? Or a master of mathematics? As a virtual teacher, you can share your knowledge with students across the globe. Platforms like VIPKid or iTalki connect you with eager learners. If English is your forte, teaching English as a second language (ESL) can be particularly profitable.
Create Websites that Earn with Display Ads
Building websites, optimizing them for search engines, driving traffic, and earning through display ads; it’s a digital real estate business model that can reap significant profits if done right. Google AdSense or Media.net are popular platforms that allow you to make money by letting other companies advertise on your website. Personally I run 8 websites that have Display Ads on them. Some make decent money, some make cents. But in the grand scheme it all adds up.
Develop Mobile Applications
In an era where there’s an app for everything, developing mobile applications can be a lucrative venture. Thailand, with its rapidly growing digital ecosystem, presents a golden opportunity for app developers. Whether it’s a Thai language learning tool, a local tour guide app, or a problem-solving application specific to the Thai market, your innovation could fill a gap and generate significant income. If you’re not a coder, don’t fret! Platforms like Buildfire or Appy Pie allow you to create apps without any programming knowledge.
Capitalize on Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is a potent way of making money online that involves promoting other company’s products and earning a commission whenever a purchase is made through your referral link. Thai e-commerce websites like Lazada offer affiliate programs that you can leverage. By integrating these affiliate links into your blog, YouTube channel, or even social media posts, every click could translate into earnings. Some of my 8 websites also have affiliate marketing on the posts. That way I earn extra income on top of Display Ads.
Invest in Cryptocurrency Trading
The rise of digital currencies has unlocked a new realm of investment opportunities. Cryptocurrency trading, while volatile, could be a profitable venture if you understand the market trends and manage your investments wisely. Thailand is becoming increasingly open to cryptocurrencies, making it a viable option for online earning. Make sure to conduct thorough research or seek professional advice before diving into this digital currency world. This is not investment advice, just a suggestion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I really make a living online while staying in Thailand?
Yes, absolutely. With the rise of the digital economy, making a living online is not only possible but can also be very profitable.
Q2: What skills do I need to make money online in Thailand?
The skills you need depend on what online venture you’re pursuing. However, some commonly useful skills include proficiency in English, digital marketing know-how, understanding of SEO, and basic computer skills.
Q3: Is it legal to make money online in Thailand?
Yes, it is legal to make money online in Thailand as long as you comply with Thai law, including taxation.
Q4: What is the best way to make money online in Thailand?
There is no definitive ‘best’ way as it depends on your skills and interests. However, freelancing, teaching online, blogging, and dropshipping are popular and effective methods.
Q5: Do I need to set up a company to make money online in Thailand?
Not necessarily. Many online ventures can be pursued independently. However, for large-scale business, setting up a company might be beneficial or necessary. Always consult a legal advisor for such decisions.
Conclusion
Making money online while living in Thailand has never been easier, thanks to the vast array of options available. From freelancing to blogging, dropshipping to teaching, the internet provides opportunities to match every skill set and interest. It’s all about identifying what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and leveraging these in the digital realm. Happy online earning, and enjoy your life in the Land of Smiles!
