Best Side Hustles for Summer
Summer in Canada offers a unique opportunity to explore side hustles that capitalize on the warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities.
Whether you're looking to make extra income or turn a passion into profit, there are plenty of seasonal opportunities. Here’s a list of some of the best side hustles for the summer in Canada, along with income potential, tools, and how to get started.
Lawn Care & Landscaping
During the summer, lawn care and landscaping services are in high demand. You can offer services like lawn mowing, hedge trimming, gardening, and more. This is a great side hustle if you love working outdoors.
Income Potential:
You can earn between $20 to $50 per hour, depending on the service offered and the size of the yard. Experienced landscapers can make upwards of $1,000 a week.
Tools and Resources:
How to Get Started:
- Advertise your services on local community groups, social media, and websites like Kijiji and Craigslist.
- Offer discounts or packages for first-time clients to build your customer base.
- Consider partnering with local businesses for consistent work.
Delivery Driver
Many delivery services increase demand in the summer due to outdoor activities and the rise in takeout orders. You can work for food delivery apps or grocery delivery services.
Income Potential:
Delivery drivers can earn between $15 to $25 per hour, depending on the number of deliveries and tips. Top drivers can make $1,000+ per week.
Tools and Resources:
How to Get Started:
- Sign up for delivery apps and start delivering in your local area.
- Optimize your working hours to coincide with peak delivery times (lunchtime and dinner).
- Use a reliable mode of transportation, such as a bike, car, or scooter.
Event Planning for Outdoor Festivals
Canada hosts numerous outdoor festivals and events during the summer months, from music festivals to craft fairs. Event planning, coordinating, and offering services like event set-up or tear-down can be lucrative side hustles.
Income Potential:
Event planners can charge anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per event, depending on the scale and nature of the event.
Tools and Resources:
How to Get Started:
- Reach out to local festivals, parks, and venues to inquire about vendor or event planning opportunities.
- Network with other event planners or vendors to get hired for larger events.
- Promote your services on social media and event listing websites.
Tour Guide for Outdoor Adventures
Canada is home to beautiful outdoor destinations like Banff, Whistler, and the Niagara Falls area. If you're passionate about nature and history, becoming a tour guide could be a fantastic summer hustle.
Income Potential:
Tour guides in popular areas can make anywhere from $100 to $500 per day, depending on the length of the tour and group size.
Tools and Resources:
How to Get Started:
- Look into getting certified as a tour guide in your province.
- Start by offering walking or bike tours of popular spots in your area.
- Use online platforms like Viator to list your services.
House Sitting & Pet Sitting
Summer is a prime time for people to take vacations, and they often need someone to look after their homes or pets while they’re away. House sitting and pet sitting can be a flexible and enjoyable side hustle.
Income Potential:
Pet sitters can charge $20 to $40 per day, while house sitters can charge anywhere from $30 to $80 per day depending on responsibilities.
Tools and Resources:
How to Get Started:
- Sign up on pet sitting and house sitting platforms to connect with clients.
- Offer references or testimonials from past clients to build trust.
- Promote your services on local social media groups and websites like Kijiji.
Bike Rentals & Tours
With the popularity of cycling during the summer months, offering bike rentals or guided cycling tours can be an excellent business opportunity. It’s a fun way to make money while staying active.
Income Potential:
Bike rentals can generate $25 to $75 per day, depending on the location and type of bike. Guided tours can be priced between $50 to $200 per person.
Tools and Resources:
How to Get Started:
- Invest in a few quality bikes to rent out or partner with a local rental shop.
- Advertise tours on tourism websites and social media.
- Ensure your tours are unique by showcasing local parks, trails, or hidden gems in your area.
Freelance Photography
If you have a passion for photography, summer is an ideal time to offer freelance photography services. Outdoor events, family photos, and engagement shoots are all popular in the summer months.
Income Potential:
Freelance photographers can charge $50 to $300 per hour, depending on the type of shoot and expertise.
Tools and Resources:
How to Get Started:
- Set up a portfolio website showcasing your best work.
- Join photography platforms like Thumbtack to connect with clients.
- Network with event planners, wedding coordinators, and families for potential gigs.
Final Thoughts
These are just a few of the top side hustles you can explore this summer in Canada. Whether you’re interested in outdoor work, event planning, or helping people with their pets, there’s a side hustle out there for you. The key is to choose one that matches your interests, schedule, and skills while also taking advantage of the unique opportunities that the summer season offers.