A travel massage therapist is a professional who provides a variety of massages and bodywork services to clients at their home, office or other locations. He/she may also provide treatments in different settings such as spas, medical offices, and private practices. Travel massage therapists often work on-the-go, so they must be able to quickly set up, provide treatments and clean-up after each client.
Travel massage therapists use a variety of techniques, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and sports massage. They may also offer special services such as pregnancy massage or hot stone therapy. During the session, they assess the client’s condition to determine what type of treatment is best suited for their needs. They also discuss the client’s health history and any preferences they have in order to customize the massage treatment.
In this article, we teamed up with experts from job aggregator Jooble to take a closer look at what a professional travel massage therapist does, and how to become one. Check out some of the jobs available as a travel massage therapist on Jooble and start chasing your dream.
How to Become a Travel Massage Therapist
- Get Your Education and Training: To become a travel massage therapist, you’ll need to complete a formal training program at an accredited massage school or college. You’ll learn the basics of massage therapy, such as anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. The program will also prepare you with hands-on experience in various bodywork techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and hot stone therapy.
- Get Licensed: Once you’ve obtained your formal education and training, the next step is to get licensed by your state or local jurisdiction. Depending on where you live, this may require passing a written exam. Licensing requirements vary from state to state, so make sure to check the requirements in your area.
- Consider Special Certifications: Although not required, certain specialty certifications may increase your chances of getting hired as a travel massage therapist. Some certifications include shiatsu, acupressure, reflexology, sports massage, and more. It’s also worth considering certifications in specialized modalities, such as prenatal and geriatric massage.
- Get Insured: Traveling means you’ll be working away from the comforts of a familiar office setting — so it’s important to make sure you have the right insurance coverage. Make sure to research your area’s requirements and secure any necessary insurance policies to protect yourself and your clients.
- Network: In order to get hired as a travel massage therapist, you’ll need to network with potential employers and let them know that you’re available for work. Consider attending industry events, such as seminars or trade shows, and make sure your resume is up to date and includes a list of any certifications or specialties you may possess.
The Benefits Of Becoming A Travel Massage Therapist
A travel massage therapist can offer some unique opportunities for growth and personal development not found in traditional settings. Becoming a travel massage therapist allows you to take your skills on the road, offering your services anywhere from corporate events to luxury spas. Some people might be hesitant about the idea of embarking on a life as a travel massage therapist, but this type of job offers a variety of advantages. You’ll get the chance to work with various individuals and settings, broadening your experience and building your resume. You’ll also have more control over your schedule, allowing you to plan out appointments and sessions according to your availability.
Traveling also brings with it the opportunity to experience new places, cultures, and people. You’ll get a front row seat to different parts of the world, learning more about yourself and gaining invaluable perspective. Plus, you can always come back home with interesting stories to share with friends and family.
How Much Does A Travel Massage Therapist Make?
It depends! As with any job, the more experience a massage therapist has, the more money they can make. A new massage therapist just starting out may make $25 to $30 per hour, whereas an experienced travel massage therapist could make up to $60 to $90 per hour. Location can also make a difference in what you earn as a travel massage therapist. Some cities may have higher demand for massage services, and therefore, can pay more. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of travel. At the end of the day, you can make a very comfortable living as a travel massage therapist—it just takes some strategic planning, hard work, and dedication.
What Are The Cons Of Being A Massage Therapist?
While being a massage therapist can be incredibly rewarding, there are definitely some downsides to the profession that shouldn’t be overlooked. Firstly, the hours can often be long and irregular, especially if you work in a spa or resort setting where you may need to work night shifts or on weekends. This is something to consider for those who have families or may need to balance a second job. Additionally, massage therapists are often required to carry heavy equipment such as massage tables and oils, which can be physically demanding after hours of practice. Also, depending on the type of setting you are working in, you may have to deal with some unsavory clients that can make your job unpleasant. Finally, massage therapists are exposed to a high risk of injury due to the physical nature of their work and must be careful not to overextend themselves. Massage therapists are required to invest in expensive equipment and certification, which can be a financial burden for some. Despite these cons, many people still choose to pursue a career as a massage therapist because of the amazing rewards it can bring.
Closing Thoughts
All in all, it’s important that anyone considering becoming a massage therapist weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. It’s also important to remember that a massage career can be extremely fulfilling for those who take the time to get properly trained and certified, as well as find the right setting for their skillset.
Also Read: Solo Travel Tips: Embracing the Adventure of Traveling Alone