Side hustles have become a popular way to earn extra income, whether to top up your wages, build savings, or test out a new career path. But not all side hustles are created equal. Some are flexible and easy to start, while others demand more time and commitment. Here’s a breakdown of a few common options – the pros and cons – to help you decide what might suit you best.
Online Surveys
Surveys are one of the easiest side hustles to get into. You simply sign up to a survey platform and start completing questionnaires.
Pros
- Easy to start – no experience needed
- Can be done from your phone or laptop
- Flexible – fit them around your day
- Extra perks like product testing on some sites
Cons
- Low pay – usually pennies to a few pounds per survey
- Time-consuming for small rewards
- Not a reliable main income source
Best for: People who want a low-effort way to earn small amounts in their spare time.
I suggest trying Pinecone Research and Prolific.
Freelancing
Freelancing covers a wide range of skills – writing, graphic design, admin, virtual assistance, tutoring, and more.
Pros
- Higher earning potential than surveys
- Can build into a full-time business
- Wide range of platforms to find clients (e.g. Upwork, Fiverr)
- Great if you enjoy working independently
Cons
- Competitive market – it takes time to build a client base
- Income can be inconsistent at first
- You need to manage your own taxes and admin
- Some platforms take high commission fees
Best for: People with a skill they can market, or those willing to learn one.
Selling Online
Selling products online – whether it’s handmade items, vintage finds, or print-on-demand designs – can be a rewarding side hustle.
Pros
- Potential for steady, scalable income
- Lots of platforms available (eBay, Amazon, Etsy, or your own shop)
- Can be combined with blogging, social media, or affiliate marketing
- Great for creative people or resellers
Cons
- Takes time to list, photograph, and market products
- Fees and shipping costs can eat into profits
- Stock management if you’re selling physical goods
- Not always instant money – it can take time to grow sales
Best for: People who enjoy selling, creating, or reselling items and are willing to put in the effort.
What to Avoid
While there are plenty of genuine side hustles, there are also traps to be aware of. MLMs (multi-level marketing schemes) often disguise themselves as “business opportunities” but usually involve buying overpriced stock or subscriptions and then trying to recruit others to do the same. The result? You’re all competing to sell the same thing, and only the people at the very top ever see real money.
The same goes for expensive “programmes” that promise you’ll make thousands quickly. If you’re being asked to put up a lot of money upfront, be cautious. A legitimate side hustle should pay you, not the other way around.
The best side hustles are the ones that make use of your own skills, creativity, or interests. They may take time to grow, but they’re yours. Being individual and carving your own path is far more rewarding than following a one-size-fits-all scheme.
Making the Right Choice
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” side hustle. The right choice depends on your goals, skills, and how much time you want to commit. Surveys are good for pocket money, freelancing can grow into a business, and selling online can provide a long-term income stream if you stick with it. Whatever you choose, make it your own and avoid the shortcuts that sound too good to be true.
