As inflation and a weaker loonie continue to stretch Canadian wallets, it seems many would-be travellers are turning to unconventional side hustles to afford their next vacation.
From pet-sitting to flipping digital goods and even creating personalized ASMR clips, Canadians are proving there's no limit to how far they’ll go—or what they’ll do—for a boarding pass.
According to a Capital One Canada survey, 36% of Canadians aged 18–44 already juggle a side hustle, and nearly half say they’re considering one to reach financial goals—including travel.
Abacus Data reports that 34% of younger Canadians are actively reallocating everyday spending—or picking up side gigs—just to fund getaways.
And it’s not just a post-pandemic phase. A 2024 Money.ca report found that 87% of Canadians have taken on a side hustle at some point, with more than half relying on them to meet basic expenses or fund things like vacation savings.
Nearly half of Canadian Gen Z and Millennials are keeping side hustles long-term, with 61% dedicating up to 20 hours per week, according to Wealth Professional Canada.
Will Hussle for Travel
According to a recent Kayak survey, nearly half of travellers said they’re taking on side gigs specifically to afford summer vacations—and many are getting unusually creative.
While the study was U.S.-based, it reveals a growing trend that resonates north of the border: travel is a top priority, and people are willing to hustle for it.
The survey revealed that nearly 1 in 3 respondents had picked up freelance work, while others turned to unconventional revenue streams to make their travel dreams happen.
Here are some of the most unique side hustles mentioned in the Kayak report and related online forums:
- Selling feet pics or ASMR content through creator platforms
- Dog-sitting or walking dogs via apps like Pawshake or Rover
- Renting out a driveway near the airport for short-term parking
- Flipping Facebook Marketplace finds or thrifted items
- Creating custom voice messages in regional accents (Newfie, Québécois)
- Tutoring ESL or French to international students online
- Leasing out camping gear or luggage through peer-to-peer sites
- Offering AI-generated art or resume templates on Fiverr
- Hosting local walking tours or Airbnb Experiences
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