Your van payment is due. Gas prices keep climbing. And that dream of waking up to ocean views isn’t paying the bills.
Van life costs money. More than Instagram shows you. But you don’t need an office to earn good money anymore. You need skills, WiFi, and the right job.
These 20 remote jobs pay $35,000 to $150,000+. Real companies hiring right now. No fake “make money fast” schemes. Each one works from a van because results matter more than your parking spot.
Pick one. Master it. Fund your freedom.
1. Software Engineer/Developer
This is the holy grail of van life remote work. You need a laptop, internet, and brain power. That’s it.
Code doesn’t care where you write it. Most dev work happens asynchronously—you get requirements, you build features, you push code. Meetings? Maybe an hour daily. The rest is deep focus time, perfect for van life.
Pick a language (Python, JavaScript, or Java are safest bets), learn Git for version control, and get good at solving problems. The specific tech stack matters less than your ability to think logically and learn quickly.
Skip the expensive degree. Do a bootcamp (many are now remote and under $15,000), build a portfolio with 3-4 real projects, then contribute to open source. Companies care about what you can build, not where you learned it.
Companies hiring remote developers: GitHub, GitLab, and Automattic lead the pack. But also check out X-Team, Toptal, and Turing for contract work that pays just as well.
Remember that Google engineer living in the parking lot? He wasn’t special—just smart about expenses. His $130,000 salary meant saving $10,000+ monthly after taxes and van costs.
2. Data Scientist
Data science is perfect for van life. You’re analyzing datasets, building models, and creating visualizations—all independent work.
Everything happens in the cloud now. You don’t need massive servers—just a decent laptop and internet. Most data science work is project-based with clear deliverables and deadlines.
Python or R for analysis, SQL for databases, machine learning basics, and statistics. You also need to explain complex findings in simple terms.
Start with Google’s Data Analytics Certificate ($49/month, 6 months to complete). Build a portfolio on Kaggle with competition entries. Then apply for junior positions emphasizing your project work, not your experience.
DataStax, Elastic, HubSpot, and Shopify all hire remote data scientists. Smaller startups often pay even better because they need the expertise but can’t afford Bay Area offices.
3. Cloud Solutions Architect
This role is designing how companies use cloud services. It’s high-level thinking that happens anywhere.
Architecture is about planning and design, not hands-on server work. You’re creating blueprints, not installing hardware. Perfect for working from a van with mountain views.
Deep knowledge of AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Understanding of security, scalability, and cost optimization. Ability to translate business needs into technical solutions.
Start with basic cloud certifications (AWS Solutions Architect Associate), get hands-on experience with real projects, then specialize in specific industries or technologies.
Every major cloud provider (AWS, Microsoft, Google) plus companies like Cloudflare, HashiCorp, and thousands of consultancies.
4. DevOps Engineer
DevOps keeps software running smoothly. It’s all about automation and monitoring—perfect for remote work.
Infrastructure is code now. You’re writing scripts and configs, not racking servers. Most DevOps work happens during normal hours unless something breaks (have good internet backup).
CI/CD pipelines, containerization (Docker/Kubernetes), infrastructure as code (Terraform), and automation scripting. You’re the bridge between development and operations.
Start in either system administration or development, learn automation tools, then transition to DevOps. The field desperately needs people—experience matters more than credentials.
Every tech company needs DevOps. Look at Docker, Kubernetes contributors, and the HashiCorp ecosystem for pure remote opportunities.
5. Cybersecurity Analyst
Security work is inherently remote—you’re monitoring networks and investigating threats from a screen.
Cyber threats don’t sleep, so companies need 24/7 coverage. This means flexible schedules and location independence. You might work odd hours, but you can work from anywhere.
Understanding of security frameworks, incident response procedures, and threat analysis. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP help but aren’t always required.
Start with CompTIA Security+, get experience through bug bounties or SOC analyst roles, then specialize in areas like cloud security or penetration testing.
CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks, and hundreds of security consultancies hire remote analysts. The talent shortage means good opportunities for newcomers.
6. UX/UI Designer
Design work is inherently visual and creative—perfect for finding inspiration while traveling.
Design tools are all cloud-based now (Figma, Sketch). User research can happen remotely. And traveling gives you exposure to different user perspectives and design styles.
Design thinking, wireframing, prototyping, and user research. Figma is becoming the standard tool. Understanding of accessibility and responsive design is crucial.
Google UX Design Certificate gets you started. Build a portfolio with 3-4 case studies showing your process, not just pretty pictures. Redesign existing apps to show your thinking.
Figma, Abstract, Dribbble, and Designlab all hire remote. But every tech company needs designers—the opportunities are endless.
7. Web Developer
Front-end development is perfect for van life—you’re building what users see and interact with.
Project-based with clear deliverables. You get mockups, you build them, you deliver. Minimal meetings, maximum coding time. Perfect for working on your own schedule.
HTML, CSS, JavaScript are the foundation. Then React, Vue, or Angular for frameworks. Understanding of responsive design and performance optimization.
Free Code Camp is free and comprehensive. Build real projects—not just tutorials. Contribute to open source. Start freelancing on smaller projects to build reputation.
10up, Human Made, Four Kitchens, and DockYard specialize in remote web development. Thousands of agencies need contract developers too.
8. Graphic Designer
Graphic design offers creative freedom and flexible deadlines—great for van life.
Most design work has reasonable deadlines, not daily emergencies. You can batch work, then take a few days off to explore. Travel provides constant visual inspiration.
Adobe Creative Suite mastery (or Affinity alternatives), understanding of branding, typography, and color theory. Ability to take creative direction and iterate based on feedback.
Build a strong portfolio showing range—logos, web graphics, print design. Start on 99designs or Fiverr to get experience and reviews. Specialize in a niche for higher rates.
99designs, Canva, Creative Market, and thousands of agencies. But the real money is in direct client work once you build reputation.
9. Technical Writer
Technical writing is perfect for van life—it’s quiet, focused work with minimal meetings.
Documentation projects have clear scope and deadlines. Most communication is asynchronous. You’re translating complex technical concepts into clear language—work you can do anywhere.
Ability to understand technical concepts and explain them simply. Experience with documentation tools like Markdown, Git, and static site generators. Strong editing skills.
Start by contributing to open-source documentation. Build a portfolio with different types of technical content. Focus on fast-growing technologies that need documentation.
GitLab, Stripe, and MongoDB all have remote technical writers. Every API-first company needs documentation—the demand is huge.
10. Digital Marketing Manager
Digital marketing is results-driven, not location-driven. Perfect for van life.
Campaigns run 24/7 regardless of where you are. Most work is strategic planning and optimization—thinking work that happens anywhere. Travel gives you fresh perspectives for creative campaigns.
SEO, SEM, social media advertising, email marketing, and analytics. You need to understand funnels, conversion optimization, and ROI measurement.
Get Google Ads and Analytics certifications (free). Run your own campaigns with small budgets to learn. Show results, not just activity. Focus on one channel initially, then expand.
HubSpot, Buffer, and Later lead in remote marketing roles. But every online business needs marketing—opportunities are everywhere.
11. Content Creator/Copywriter
You write when you want. Deadlines matter, not location. Park anywhere with decent internet and you’re good to go. Perfect for van life. Write blog posts, emails, and web pages that make people want to buy things. Or create content that teaches, entertains, or solves problems.
Skills that pay the bills:
- SEO writing (getting Google to like your stuff)
- Telling stories that keep people reading
- Research skills to back up your points
Start a blog. Write 20 posts. Show them to potential clients. Get your first gig. Build from there.
12. SEO Specialist
Everything happens online. You analyze data, make recommendations, and watch rankings climb. No meetings required.
Help websites show up first on Google. Fix technical problems. Plan content that people search for.
Skills that pay the bills:
- Technical SEO (making websites faster and cleaner)
- Reading analytics like a detective
- Planning content that ranks
Get the free Moz certification. Practice on your own site. Show before-and-after results. Specialize in one industry.
13. Sales Development Rep
Phone and email are your office. Many companies let you set your own hours as long as you hit quotas. Find potential customers. Send emails. Make calls. Set up meetings for senior salespeople. Hit your numbers.
Skills that pay the bills:
- Clear communication (no mumbling on calls)
- CRM software mastery
- Not giving up after 10 “no’s”
Take free sales training online. Apply everywhere. Prove you can hit quotas. Move up fast.
14. Project Manager
Remote teams are normal now. You coordinate everything through Slack and video calls. Keep projects on track. Make sure everyone knows their job. Solve problems before they get big. Report progress.
Skills that pay the bills:
- Agile or Scrum methods
- Crystal-clear communication
- Organization that would make Marie Kondo proud
- Get your PMP certification. Manage volunteer projects for experience. Show you can deliver on time and budget.
15. Business Analyst
You analyze data and write reports. Both happen on a laptop. Companies care about insights, not your parking spot. Figure out why things aren’t working. Find patterns in data. Suggest fixes that save money or time.
Skills that pay the bills:
- Data analysis (Excel wizardry)
- Finding problems others miss
- Explaining complex stuff simply
Get a business degree (or prove you don’t need one). Master analysis tools. Build a portfolio of problem-solving win.
16. Business Consultant
You sell expertise, not time in an office. Work with clients anywhere. Set your own schedule. Fix specific business problems. Share knowledge others don’t have. Get paid well for it.
Skills that pay the bills:
- Deep knowledge in one area
- Problem-solving that saves companies money
- Confidence to charge what you’re worth
Build expertise in your corporate job. Start consulting on the side. Go independent when you have enough clients.
17. Customer Success Manager
You manage relationships through video calls and emails. Success is measured by numbers, not face time. Keep customers happy after they buy. Solve their problems. Make sure they renew. Track success metrics.
Skills that pay the bills:
- Communication that builds trust
- Reading data to spot problems early
- Actually caring about customer outcomes
Start in customer service. Move to account management. Prove you can reduce churn. Land the CSM role.
18. Virtual Assistant
Tasks have deadlines, not set hours. Many executives prefer async communication anyway.
Handle email. Schedule meetings. Book travel. Research stuff. Make your boss’s life easier.
Skills that pay the bills:
- Organization that never fails
- Written communication that sounds professional
- Tech tools mastery (calendars, project management)
Use your admin experience. Take VA training courses. Pick a specialty (like working with lawyers or real estate agents).
19. Online Coach/Consultant
Sessions happen over video. You set your schedule. Charge $100-300 per hour once established.
Help people solve specific problems. Run coaching sessions. Create programs. Build a following.
Skills that pay the bills:
- Real expertise in something valuable
- Coaching certification (helps but not always required)
- Ability to get results for clients
Get certified if needed. Coach 10 people for free. Collect testimonials. Start charging. Raise prices as you improve.
Yourself (or platforms like Coach.me, BetterUp)
20. Data Analyst
Data lives in the cloud. Reports get emailed. Nobody cares where you crunch numbers.
Turn messy data into clear answers. Build dashboards. Find trends. Help companies make better decisions.
Skills that pay the bills:
- SQL (the language databases speak)
- Excel skills that amaze normal humans
- Tableau or similar for pretty charts
- Basic statistics
Take a data bootcamp. Build a portfolio with real projects. Pick an industry to specialize in.