A bit on the side? How to make money with a side hustle

Looking for ways to earn a bit of extra income? You might already have a hobby that could be making you extra dosh

Whether you want to treat yourself, top up your savings or simply make your financial life run more smoothly, doing a little extra on the side of existing employment or taking on a role in your spare time might be the solution. So how can you make money with a side hustle? And what even is that?

For enterprising individuals, there are lots of great opportunities to make extra cash without committing to a contracted job. We look at some great ways to make money on the side, using your existing skills.

Clear out and cash in

One of the best ways to quickly top up your piggy bank and create a clutter free home to boot is by selling on unwanted items from clothing to ornaments on specialist selling sites such as Vinted or eBay.

Try sourcing second hand goods to resell online

Uploading the relevant information is easy, and either low-cost or free, and can be a great way to make a little extra. If you find you’re a whizz at online selling, you may even decide to up the ante. Try sourcing second hand goods to resell online and starting your own lucrative side-hustle. 

Get creative

Got a creative streak? If you’re forever crocheting hats and scarfs, embroidering clothing or knitting for family members you could take your hobby to the next level by selling your merchandise on Etsy. This site is designed for makers selling home-made goods and can be a great way to sell your wares to people who value the personal touch.

If internet selling is not your thing, look out for local craft fayres where you will be able to book a stall and sell to the public first-hand.

Brush up your skills

Have friends and family sometimes commented on your artwork or photography? Have you got an eye for a beautiful scene or framing the perfect shot? If you’re into painting or photography, try taking your art to the next level by selling your shots and canvases to art enthusiasts.

For snappers, sites like Shutterstock offer the opportunity to sell your pics to interested buyers. And if you’re into your art, local craft fayres or sites such as Etsy or Artgallery offer a great opportunity to connect with art-lovers both locally and worldwide.

Lead the way

If you’re an animal lover, have you ever considered making some extra cash by spending more time with your four-legged friends? Dog walking can be a great way to make a little extra – as well as get some outdoor exercise.

Alternatively, you may want to offer your services as a pet-sitter, looking after animals while their owners take a break. If you have space you may even want to look after people’s pets overnight. Websites such as Rover allow you to sign up, or you might simply want to advertise locally. Depending on the service you offer, you may need to follow guidance in animal care. RSPCA offer easy to follow guidance for professional dog walkers.

Become a landlord

While you may not have a property portfolio to let out, you might want to consider the space you have at home. Your spare room may currently be filled with junk, but clearing it out and advertising for a lodger could be a lucrative way to use the room to your advantage. The Government’s Rent a Room scheme allows you to earn up to £7,500 tax free from renting rooms, making it a great way to earn a little extra. If you’d prefer to avoid a longer-term tenant, why not advertise short stays on sites such as Airbnb, where people can book one or two nights and pay for the privilege?

If you live close to a station or in a popular town, you may like to look at renting out your driveway as a parking space for a local worker or commuter. Sites such as Just Park can help you discover how to set up and cash in.

Go green

If you’re someone who loves to garden, you could turn your hobby into a side-hustle with ease. Growing herbs or vegetables to sell locally can net some extra cash, and create a great source of fresh produce for your neighbours and friends. If flowers are your thing, you can plant with purpose and sell your blooms either at local events or on sites such as Flowers from the Farm – a site that links small producers to demand.

If you do decide to grow specifically to sell, or want to set up a stall at a local farmers’ market, contact your local council to make sure you have the relevant permissions.

Need tips on growing your own produce? Read more: Worried about salad? How to grow your own

Straighten things out

Not everyone likes firing up the iron, but if you’re one of those people who find ironing therapeutic, why not offer a local ironing service? Many people lack the time, energy or skill to iron their clothes and would welcome a local place to get their work clothes straightened out. Advertise in the local shop, or by word of mouth and you’ll be surprised by the demand.

Too taxing?

Of course, earning extra money comes with additional responsibility. Selling things you already own second hand is one thing. But if you’re sourcing, producing and selling goods or services, you need to check out the small print. If you earn more than £1,000 a year, you will need to register as self employed at HMRC. And depending on the direction you choose, there may be rules and regulations to adhere to. For information and guidance, try contacting the HMRC business support line.

By choosing the right side-hustle you could make money from doing things you already enjoy. And who knows? Maybe eventually turn your hobby into a full-time occupation.

Thinking about the future? Cut through all the pensions waffle, with simple steps tailored to your needs to help you achieve the retirement you want. Get your free Pension Buddy Plan now.