How To Get An Outdoor or Travel Job

So, you might have found your dream outdoor job, or maybe you’re still wondering what outdoor job is right for me?  Check our Founder’s top 5 tips for finding the right job and nailing your interview!

archgroup.jpg

1. Confidence is key

Landing your dream outdoor job takes a lot more than just loving the outdoors. Companies look to hire guides and leaders that come across as confident and self-assured.  No one wants to white water raft with a rafting guide who doesn’t seem confident in themselves or their abilities. Do not be humble about your skills and achievements when interviewing, let those interviewing you know that you have what it takes to not only be an amazing guide but also keep your guests happy, safe, and healthy.  Remember though, that there is a fine line between being confident and cocky.

2. Write down your strengths

Not sure what type of outdoor job is right for you?  Spend some time writing down your strengths. Are you more comfortable sleeping under the stars and guiding hardcore backpacking trips?  Or are you more suited to working with high-end clientele, 5-star hotels, and can provide out of this world customer service? There's a huge range of outdoor jobs and picking the right one comes down to you!

3. Certifications

Almost every outdoor job will require basic CPR and First Aid before you start, while many won’t require advanced certifications your first year, additional certifications can really help you stand out from the crowd.  Ones most commonly asked about are:

  • First Aid & CPR

  • Wilderness First Responder

  • Wilderness EMT

  • Ocean Lifeguard

  • Dive Master

  • Swift Water Rescue

  • Leave No Trace

4. Experience

Don’t worry, you don’t need to be Indiana Jones to apply for an outdoor or travel job, but companies love to see some sort of relative experience, especially in this industry.  Be sure to highlight your experience and skills in interviews. Have you traveled overseas or spent a lot of time backpacking and camping? Are you an avid hiker, runner, biker?  Do you speak a second language?

5. Public Speaking


Since the general public is more scared of public speaking than dying this is a big one!  You might hate it, but as a leader and guide, you are constantly public speaking. You’re briefing guests and clients on the day, giving safety talks, sharing regional information, giving toasts, the list goes on and on.  Get comfortable speaking in front of others, enlist family and friends to practice with and give feedback, I also love these practical tips from Tim Ferriss.


About the Author:

Courtney Condy is an Adventure Travel Guide and Founder of Occupation Wild.

Courtney Condy