(NewsNation) — With just days left until the April 8 solar eclipse, communities in the path of totality are expecting an economic boom from flocks of visitors looking for the best view.
Forbes expects a $1 billion windfall for states in the path that cuts through the center of the country from Texas to Ohio to Maine.
The eclipse marks an economic opportunity for those among the 31 million residents in the path of totality looking to make an extra buck.
Here’s advice from a personal finance expert on how cash in during the eclipse.
Driving for ride-hailing services
If you’re already a driver for ride-hailing services Uber or Lyft, working on the day of the eclipse might be a good plan. There are already areas like Hillsborough, Texas, that say they need more drivers to help with crowds.
Parking
Another idea is offering up parking spots possibly in your driveway, your lawn or along your street, if it’s permitted.
Rentals
Another option if you’re comfortable with it is offering your home as a rental on Airbnb or VRBO. Airbnb recently reported a 1,000% increase in searches for stays along the path of totality. It says those rentals outnumber hotels along the path or near the path by 15:1.
Old-fashioned lemonade stand
Buying snacks and drinks in bulk from Costco or Walmart and then upselling them in crowds could also bring in some extra cash.
The solar eclipse — when the moon passes in between the sun and Earth — is set to take place April 8.