Whether you're looking to make some extra cash, develop new friendships or find a new challenge, there are many things you can do when you reduce or stop work. In this article I discuss ten side hustles you can do in retirement.
Airbnb
During the summer of 2023 I travelled along the coast of Devon and Cornwall. To keep costs down I booked rooms in people's houses through Airbnb. It was the most amazing experience and I met some wonderful people. Most of the people I stayed with were retired and they explained that aside from the money they really enjoyed meeting new people. One lady invited me onto the terrace for afternoon tea on arrival and I felt like I was staying with an aunt I hadn't seen for many years. Unless you live in a high demand area it is unlikely that you'll receive bookings every night so it's not great as a steady income. It also requires quite a bit of cleaning and laundry so it helps if you don't mind the extra washing!
2. House Sitting
This is a great opportunity for those who love a bit of variety in their lives. You get the call and you're off to meet the family just before they set off for their holiday for a week or two. You meet their dog, their cat and have a tour of the garden. Your job is to care for the pets, water the plants and keep the place tidy in their absence. You can apply for this work through a number of companies and you may receive a small daily allowance. The money is unlikely to amount to much but you will have a change of scene and the opportunity to explore a new area. For those that love animals but can't afford them or if you're not keen on being tied down all year round this is a great option. You are usually not allowed to take your own pets though and you will be thoroughly vetted before your first assignment.
3. Tutoring
Could others benefit from your skills and knowledge? Around 30% of students have a private tutor and tutors charge anything from £20 to £50 and more per hour. Aside from school subjects you might also teach a musical instrument or languages. Consider also other skills you have that others might wish to learn, for example baking, gardening, arts and crafts. There are plenty of sites where you can advertise your services for a percentage of your income and they usually handle the payment side of tutoring too. You can decide to teach in person or online doing as much or as little as you wish.
4. Selling crafts
From candles, cakes and soap to pottery, wood turning and art and so many other crafts in between, there are many opportunities to sell your handmade crafts. There are plenty of craft fairs, shows and events where you might promote and sell your goods. These fairs are usually organised by a specialist events company and you pay a flat fee for a spot to set up your stall. You will most likely need craft fair insurance. Another option is to sell a selection of your products in a local shop that sells space, perhaps a few shelves or a stand. It's worth having a chat with shop owners to check out potential opportunities. There are also plenty of opportunities for selling online through platforms such as Etsy, Not On The High Street and Amazon Handmade. It's worth having a good look at your preferred sites and do watch out for high fees.
5. Proofreading
Are you pretty good with spelling, grammar and punctuation? Proof reading offers the flexibility of working from home or where it suits you. The role of the proof reader is to read through copy and check for any errors prior to publishing. It's helpful to have an appreciation of publishing symbols and you may need some familiarity with particular IT systems. You'll probably be working towards deadlines but you will have the flexibility to work at times that suits you within the deadline window. There are a number of companies that advertise ongoing opportunities. Some require experience whilst others provide training before you start.
6. Personal training
It's fantastic to see that some gyms are now recognising the benefits of employing older workers. As we get older we may find a new love for exercise. Perhaps we didn't have time to fit much fitness training in when we were focussed on work and the commute. Now, we have the option to work in a gym and to share our passion. David Lloyd Leisure recognise the benefits of employing staff at any age. They believe, "any age is the right age so whether you are looking to kick start your career with us for the first time or if you are now retired and looking to stay active to inspire others; we would love to hear from you".
7. Gardening
Not only does gardening keep us fit it also gives us a reason to be outside. Gardening maintenance comes in many forms from moving lawns, to hedge trimming and pruning. With a basic level of fitness and a car it is possible to find a number of smaller jobs in your locality or perhaps a contract. There may also be opportunities for part time work at large stately homes, zoological parks and similar venues.
8. Dog walking
Dog walking allows you to stay healthy whilst enjoying the outdoors and earning some extra money. Dog walking is also great for social interaction which is important for our wellbeing. To get started you might ask neighbours and friends for referrals. You could also try putting together flyers which detail the services that you will offer and distribute these at your local pet shop, vet, community shop, dog groomers and other pet related business. There are also a number of apps you can use to offer your dog walking services such as Go Walkies: Dog Walking UK or Rover. The challenge is making yourself stand out from the crowd.
9. Babysitting
Looking after children in retirement can provide a fun and flexible way to earn some extra cash. You'll be able to teach arts and crafts, play games and visit local parks and museums. Babysitting will help you to stay fit and you'll also benefit from the social interaction with both children and their parents. It's a great opportunity to share your own life experience and the wisdom that comes with age. Getting started is relatively straightforward. You can follow the steps suggested above for dog walking or use an app such as babysits.uk or sitters.co.uk.
10. Freelancing
When we have been working for some years we will have developed specialist skills and knowledge in some area. Perhaps you might provide freelance consultancy to other businesses in the same industry or offer your services to other sectors. It may be a good idea to speak to your company about potential opportunities for freelancing before you retire. You could also join business clubs and networking events to help you promote yourself.
Why not start exploring what you can do in retirement? Which of the ten side hustles you can do in retirement might work for you?
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