20 Side Hustle Ideas for Summer 2024: Part Two Here are 10 more side hustle ideas that will get you ready to make extra income this summer.
By John Rampton Edited by Mark Klekas
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
It will be summer before you know it, and this is the time to start planning some ways to earn extra income or start a new side hustle. Continuing from part one of the top side hustles for summer 2024, here are another ten ideas to get you thinking now.
11. Surf the web
You're likely on the Internet all the time, like me. So why not make some money while you're on the web?
With Swagbucks, for instance, you can earn money quickly. You should try this app, as it is very easy to use.
With Swagbucks, you can earn points (called SB points) and redeem them for cash. Additionally, you can earn points by using their search engine and by:
- Taking paid surveys online
- Watching videos sponsored by companies
- Shopping through their website
- Reading emails
When you open an account with Swagbucks, you'll receive a $5 bonus. The platform is available to anyone over the age of 13. The best part is that you need no more than an internet connection to get started.
Gift cards and cash are the two ways you can redeem earnings. There is a $1 redemption minimum if you choose gift cards.
You won't become wealthy with Swagbucks, but it is a great way to earn money on the side.
Related: Is That Side Hustle a Scam? Here Are Four Questions You Need to Ask.
12. Work at summer events
Working summer events for cash or festival experiences are possible in various ways. Some ideas are as follows:
- Volunteer. In addition to setting up and breaking down the festival grounds, selling tickets, and working in the food and beverage areas, many festivals are looking for volunteers. Volunteering is a great way to get involved in the festival without paying for a ticket.
- Work for a festival company. Many companies specialize in providing festival staffing. Many of these companies hire security guards, bartenders, and ticket takers.
- Start your own festival business. You might be able to start your own festival services company if you are really passionate about festivals. Among these things are event planning, marketing, and staffing. It is hard work, but starting your own business can also be gratifying.
Related: Entrepreneurs, Here Are the 5 Ways to Throw the Best First Event Ever
Here are a few specific summer events you could work for festival experiences or cash:
- Music festivals. Nothing is better than experiencing live music at a festival and meeting new people. Music festivals come in all sizes, from small local to large international festivals.
- Food festivals. Festivals offer an excellent opportunity to try new foods and learn about different cultures. Various foods have been featured at food festivals, such as Italian and Mexican food festivals.
- Art festivals. Art festivals provide an excellent opportunity to see and purchase original artwork. Various art forms, such as painting, sculpture, and photography, are featured at art festivals.
- Wine festivals. You can sample different wines and learn more about winemaking at wine festivals.
The summer is filled with festivals where you can earn cash or experiences no matter your interests.
13. Be a lifeguard
Lifeguards earn an average hourly wage of $13.45 in the U.S. as of May 29, 2023. Nevertheless, you can spend the entire day outside by a pool or beach. To ensure the safety of swimmers, community pools and beaches hire seasonal lifeguards — making it ideal for students or teachers. You might even be able to offer swimming lessons on the side.
To get hired, you must be a strong swimmer and complete a training and certification course. You can find a nationwide certification program like The Red Cross.
14. Cruise work
Have you ever considered working on a cruise ship? Try it out if you're looking for a free summer vacation. Serving, bartending, massaging, cashiering, and cooking are just some jobs on the ship.
While you work on the ship, you'll receive free food, lodging, and other benefits. You can even bring a family member on board for a limited time on some cruise lines.
15. Organize a local "experience"
Hosting local tours or "experiences" might be an interesting side hustle if your town is a popular summer tourist destination. These might include:
- Walking tours
- Foodie tours
- Beer, wine, or spirit-tasting tours
- Workshops on guided meditation
Here's the cool thing: Rates and availability can be set by you. See what's available in your area with platforms like Airbnb Experiences. Is there anything missing? Do you have any improvement opportunities or pivots you could make?
16. Get a job at a summer theme park
Making money, having fun, and meeting new people can all be found at summer theme parks. Your interests and skills can be met at theme parks with a variety of jobs. Among the most popular jobs are:
- Ride operators
- Food service workers
- Retail sales associates
- Attractions attendants
- Guest relations representatives
Working at a theme park typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and be at least 16 years of age. Depending on the park, you may also be required to pass a background check and drug test.
17. Mow lawns
In the summer, lawn mowing is in high demand, and almost anyone can do it as a side gig. A lawn mowing business can start in your neighborhood by advertising and purchasing basic supplies.
The target audience is people who are unable to mow their lawns regularly or are unable to devote time to doing so. You can adjust the price based on the lawn's size after establishing an introductory price point.
Offering additional services such as trimming and gutter cleaning can help you upsell.
Related: 5 Success Tips for Your Lawn Care Business
18. Photography
Photographers with a good eye for detail and who enjoy taking pictures will find plenty of work during the summer. These include weddings, barbecues, company picnics, graduations, and family gatherings. To build your portfolio, start charging a very low fee and then scale up as your skills and comfort level increase. For a steady income, consider becoming a preferred vendor at local venues.
Are you more interested in taking pictures of landscapes or other settings? Selling your photographs and earning money through sites like DepositPhotos or Pexels is possible. You can sell your photos, like on your summer vacation— and earn passive income.
19. Rent things out
In today's world, there are countless platforms to rent out stuff.
- Have an extra room or house? Make it available on Airbnb.
- Don't do a lot of driving that much? You can rent out your car through Turo.
- Are you an RV owner? You can earn cash by renting it out if you don't plan to use it this summer. Renters and RV owners can connect on RVshare's online marketplace.
- With Spinlister, you can rent out your bike, surfboard, snowboard, or stand-up paddleboard that doesn't receive nearly as much use as it should.
- With Fat Llama, you can lend anything from your favorite camera to your favorite sports equipment. By listing your items for free on this site, you can connect with people in your community who need what you have to offer.
20. Invest your money
Over time, investing your money can help you grow your wealth. Investing can be done in many different ways, so it's essential to do your research before deciding.
Investing options include:
- Stocks
- Bonds
- Mutual funds
- Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
Investments always involve some level of risk, so you need to keep that in mind. The right investments can, however, help you grow your wealth in the long run if you do your homework.
Related: 7 Types of Investments Entrepreneurs Should Know About
Final Words of Advice
The following are just a few ideas for summer side hustles. If you're creative, you can find a way to make extra money while having fun.
To help you find the right summer side hustle, here are some additional tips:
- Take into account your interests and skills. What are your strengths? Is there anything you enjoy doing? Being passionate about your work increases your chances of success.
- Be sure to do your research. Learn more about a few potential side hustles you've identified. How are the hours and pay? Are there any requirements?
- Connect with others. Ask your friends, family, and colleagues if they have any opportunities to help you. Additionally, you can connect with people with the same interests by attending networking events or online forums.
- Begin small. Trying too much too soon is a bad idea. When you gain experience, gradually increase your hours and earnings through a side hustle.
Overall, summer side hustles can be fun and profitable if you're willing to put in some effort.
