1. Dive into Delivery Services for Food and Packages
Delivery apps are booming with holiday orders. Sign up for DoorDash, Uber Eats, Instacart, or similar platforms where surges in groceries, meals, and gifts mean more opportunities. Experienced users often see $20–$30 hourly during busy times, boosted by tips and incentives.
Many offer instant cash-outs for immediate access to earnings. Approval is quick after a background check, allowing you to start the same day in high-traffic areas.
2. Offer Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Traveling families create urgent needs for pet care. Through Rover or Wag, book walks ($20–$40 each) or overnight stays ($30–$80+). It's rewarding for pet enthusiasts, with payouts arriving shortly after services.
Build a profile quickly and respond to last-minute requests to secure multiple bookings this week.
3. Provide Gift Wrapping and Holiday Help
Overwhelmed shoppers seek wrapping experts. Advertise on local apps or groups, charging per item or session ($5–$20+ per gift). Cash or quick payments make it instant income.
Bundle with errands for added value and attract clients via simple posts showcasing your skills.
4. Sell Handmade Goods or Unused Items
Monetize crafts or declutter via Etsy for handmade ornaments/cards, or Facebook Marketplace for quick local sales of clothes and gadgets. Immediate meetups yield cash on the spot.
Focus on holiday-themed items for faster turnover with minimal effort.
5. Babysit During Holiday Gathering
Parents need sitters for parties and events ($15–$25/hour). List on Care.com or community groups, often earning cash nightly.