Summer is the season for sweet corn on the grill, drippy ice cream cones in the sun, and laid-back picnics by a body of water. But why settle for lounging around when you could turn up the temperature on your motivation and cushion your bank account with some extra spending money? Maybe you want to save up money in between semesters at school or maybe you boost your funds for that Europe trip in the fall. Whatever your inspiration, summer is the perfect time to kick-start that side hustle and earn some extra spending money.

Garden consultant

If you have a green thumb and an understanding of how to organize plots of land into a beautiful canvas, there are people who would pay for your services. Help homeowners transform their outdoor spaces by either consulting and drawing up a plan for them or by getting your hands dirty and doing the renovation yourself. Offer advice on what flowers will grow best in what soil and light conditions, when to plant them, and how to maintain a garden. If you have experience with vegetables or fruit, you can advertise that as a specialty as well.

Vacation rental host

Consider posting an extra room or property on a hospitality platform like Vrbo or Airbnb to generate some revenue; since summer is such a prime time for travel, now is the ideal time to do so.  Put yourself above the rest by paying attention to details, answering questions promptly, and offering an experience that takes your guests’ vacations to the next level. To maximize your profits, you can even do the cleanings yourself.

Outdoor movie night organizer

If you have a spacious backyard with lush grass, you could host movie screenings under the stars for an admission price. All you’d need is a big screen, a projector, and speakers. Attendees can bring their own blankets and chairs, or you could provide some of your own outdoor furniture. To make extra money, offer concessions like freshly popped popcorn and frosty sodas. Just be sure to purchase a movie license, which will vary in cost depending on how many people you expect to have.

Outdoor fitness instructor

No one wants to be cooped up inside when the weather is gorgeous. Take your fitness skills outside and host a class in the sunshine. Introduce people to your favorite yoga spot by the lake, or start a weekly boot camp in a local park. There are a lot of people who may not want to commit to a gym but have time during summer to join a weekly class and enjoy some community too.

Freelance photographer

Do you own a decent camera and have an eye for composition and a knack for finding the right light? Put those skills to use by offering your services for group portraits, summer engagements, and family reunions. If you’re an experienced photographer, weddings are especially lucrative and popular this season. The long days of light make the coming months a great time to put this passion to good use.

Dog walker and pet sitter

If you love furry critters and long strolls, this is a match made in heaven. You can still spend plenty of time outside, but you’ll also be making money with a friendly companion by your side. A lot of people plan vacations this time of year, which means reliable pet sitters are in high demand.

Creative workshop instructor

Do you have a special talent like watercolor painting, magic tricks, or tap dancing? Find a space to rent, and lead a creative workshop for children home for summer or for adults looking to flex their creative muscles and meet new people. If you aren’t as keen on doing marketing, partner with your local recreation center and offer classes through their program.

Lawn care

This is a tried-and-true side hustle: homeowners have lawns with grass that continually grows, and if you prove yourself reliable and attentive, you could have a recurring gig each year. Not only will you make money, but you’ll also get your cardio in. Plus, it’s a huge help to people who can’t be out in the heat or aren’t able to handle a lawnmower.

Online tutoring

The school year can be difficult, and some students may benefit from summer tutoring, whether because they’ve fallen behind or they are studying for a special test. If you excel at a certain subject, advertise your services at schools for enrichment or to help students catch up and be prepared for the fall.

The key to a successful side hustle is choosing a gig that aligns with your personal strengths and interests. Whether you are sharing your knowledge, your creativity, or your services, these ideas will help you make the most of this summer’s side-hustle season.

*Make sure to research and obtain any necessary permits and licenses for these hustles.