9 Side Gigs That Sound Easy but Aren’t Worth it

At first glance, certain side gigs look like a great way to earn quick cash. But once you get started, they often don’t deliver. Between low pay, unreliable clients, and long hours, some gigs just aren’t worth the hassle. It’s better to know what you’re walking into before you waste your time. Here are nine side hustles that really aren’t worth it.

Selling Stuff Online (But Not What You Thought)

Selling things online sounds like a quick way to make money, especially with all those “sell your stuff for cash” tips you see online. However, unless you have valuable items or a niche market, you could spend hours posting, shipping, and dealing with returns for little return on investment. Instead of getting caught up in selling random things, consider focusing on something with more steady demand or better margins, like crafting or flipping higher-quality items.

Taking Surveys for Cash

Filling out surveys is marketed as easy money, but it rarely is. Most of them pay next to nothing and eat up a lot of time. After answering question after question, you’re lucky to earn a dollar. If you’re serious about making extra cash, focus on something with better returns—like freelancing or selling a skill you already have.

Becoming a Personal Shopper

While personal shopping may sound glamorous and easy, it can become more of a hassle than it’s worth. Between finding the right items, dealing with picky clients, and managing your time, personal shopping takes a lot of effort for minimal pay.

Instead of diving into personal shopping, consider other gig options where your time is better spent, such as freelance writing or virtual assistance.

Driving for Rideshare Services

Driving for companies like Uber or Lyft seems like an easy way to make money while driving around, but it’s not always worth it. The pay per ride is often lower than expected, and the time spent driving and waiting for rides can quickly add up.

Plus, you’ll have to account for gas, maintenance, and other vehicle-related expenses. If you like driving, consider exploring other delivery gigs, such as food delivery, which can pay better in certain areas.

Offering Dog Walking or Pet Sitting

Walking dogs and pet sitting can be a fun side gig, but it’s not always as lucrative as you might think. Between the low pay and the unpredictable schedule, pet-related jobs can become time-consuming.

If you’re thinking of taking this on as a side gig, make sure you’re not overextending yourself with too many clients or too little pay for your time. A more consistent side gig, like tutoring, might be a better option for steady cash flow.

Mystery Shopping

Mystery shopping is one of those gigs that seems too good to pass up—getting paid to shop! The truth is, it’s not as simple as it sounds. Not only do mystery shoppers often earn very little for their time, but they also have to follow detailed instructions and report back on their findings, which can take a lot of effort.

If you’re looking for a side gig that uses your skills more effectively, focus on something like freelance writing, graphic design, or online teaching.

Renting Out Your Car

Renting out your car might seem like an effortless way to earn extra cash, but in reality, it can be a headache. Between dealing with maintenance issues, having your car cleaned, and coordinating with renters, the income might not be worth the hassle. Plus, accidents or damages could result in more stress and expenses. Instead, focus on more reliable side gigs like selling homemade goods or starting a small online business.

Flipping Furniture

Flipping furniture has become a trendy side hustle, but it’s not as easy as it seems. While you can make money from fixing up old pieces, the time, effort, and tools required to do so often outweigh the profits.

Plus, if you’re not already skilled in woodworking or refinishing, you may end up wasting time and money on repairs that don’t yield good returns. If you like working with your hands, try selling handmade items on platforms like Etsy instead.

Selling Photography or Stock Photos

If you’re passionate about photography, selling stock photos might sound like an easy way to make passive income. But in reality, the market is flooded with photographers, and your images may get lost in the mix.

Plus, you’ll need to invest in good equipment and editing software to produce high-quality images that stand out. Instead of relying on stock photo sites, consider monetizing your photography skills through local gigs, event photography, or selling prints online.

Participating in Focus Groups

Focus groups are advertised as a quick and easy way to earn extra money, but they often require a lot of time for little reward. The compensation is generally low, and it can be difficult to find relevant opportunities. You also have to commit to attending a session during set hours, which can limit your flexibility.

If you’re looking to make money by sharing your opinions, consider writing reviews or offering feedback through online platforms where you can get paid more efficiently.

The Right Side Gig Can Make All the Difference

While side gigs can be a great way to boost your income, it’s important to pick ones that actually align with your time, energy, and skill set. Instead of jumping into gigs that sound too good to be true, consider finding something that fits your lifestyle and interests. By choosing the right side hustle, you can make extra money without burning out.