How to Become a Freelance Travel Writer (Even With No Experience)

To become a successful travel writer, it takes creativity, exploration, and a keen attention to detail in order to translate the immersive nature of a destination into a compelling and vivid article. If you are capable of accomplishing those tasks and if you are prepared to invest time in promoting your work, you have the potential to become a successful freelance travel writer.

Successful travel writing requires the writer to immerse themselves in the perspective of the potential traveler. Upon arriving at a new destination, what does a traveler feel like doing? Want a bite? Need a place to sleep? An understanding of the local culture and historical significance? Is this a nice neighborhood to take a tour of? How significant is familiarity?

Do travelers desire to experience a sense of being "at home" even when they are in another country, with all the familiar necessities and comforts easily accessible (and with minimal language barriers)? Do travelers desire to be thrilled and pushed out of their comfort zone, in order to embrace the hardships of local life?

When gathering your information, you should aim to meet the needs of various types of travelers, as you cannot predict who will use your articles as references. You may want to prioritize certain traveler needs over others, depending on where you plan to sell your article.

A lot of travel agents aim to minimize the unfamiliar aspects of a place in order to promote a more welcoming image for tourists. On the other hand, some adventure travel magazines encourage readers to overlook any mentions of American chain stores within a five-mile radius of the destination.

In travel writing, the usual practice is to turn the old cliché on its head and say: more is more. The more thrilling and appealing a location is, the greater the chance that travelers will turn to your articles for guidance in planning their trips.

When it comes to writing travel articles, it is most effective if you have personally visited the location you are writing about. Only personal experience can provide a deep understanding of the many nuances of a place, such as its smell, colors, sounds, traffic flow, and the attitude of its people.

If you have visited a location, the unique insights you provide can set your article apart from others.

Who is a Travel Writer?

A travel writer is someone who focuses on writing about their travel experiences, offering insights into the places they explore, and giving recommendations to other travelers.

They are responsible for creating engaging stories about their journeys, including details of the people, culture, and landscapes of the places they visit. Travel writers can be employed by newspapers, magazines, and travel websites, and they may also publish books or blogs about their adventures. They often travel to various destinations, ranging from bustling cities to secluded spots, and may specialize in certain types of travel, such as adventure or luxury travel.

To succeed as a travel writer, it is essential to possess strong writing skills, a knack for capturing a destination's essence, and a deep love of travel. It is necessary to be able to communicate one's experiences and insights in a manner that captivates and motivates readers, and to possess a sharp attention to detail, as well as the capacity to thoroughly research and verify information.

Additionally, travel writers may need to have skills in photography or videography to capture the visual aspects of their journeys.

Income Possibilities - Can You Earn Enough Money as a Travel Writer?

This is the most pressing inquiry for hopeful writers. The brief response is "yes". One can earn a living as a freelance travel writer.

The formula is easy: generate excellent story concepts and pitch them to editors of magazines.

Experienced travel writers make the task appear effortless. They travel the world by jet, fly in private helicopters over shining glaciers, stay at unique jungle and beach resorts, and walk along unspoiled, white sandy shores beneath gently swaying palm trees.

Many individuals aspire to become travel writers, drawn to the perceived glamour of the job and the chance to travel for free. I definitely understand this.

Life is good for travel writers who have become skilled in their craft.

Is it truly easy?

How do you actually earn money to support such a perfect lifestyle?

Is it feasible to make a sufficient amount of money?

Use Travel Writing As A Secondary Stream of Income to Earn More Money

If you're looking to start a career in travel writing and have a stable income from a job, my best advice to you is to keep your day job and not give it up.

As a beginner in travel writing, the income is minimal and irregular. Like many others, if you have expenses to cover, it's important to have a reliable income to meet those financial obligations.

Being a part-time travel writer or blogger is perfectly acceptable. This is essentially required for beginners. You cannot rely on freelance income to cover your bills initially, as it is uncertain.

Several small businesses are initiated as side gigs while you are still employed. Starting a business in this way is the least stressful option.

A lot of travel writers work full-time in a completely different industry. During their free time, they send out inquiries, and they utilize their holiday time to participate in press trips. This is the most effective way to begin. You can use travel writing as an additional source of income and avoid concerns about making enough money.

Some people have a part-time job to earn a consistent income.

Alternatively, you may have a spouse who is employed and willing to take on the responsibility of paying the household expenses.

Other travel writers are supported by investments, retirement incomes, trust funds, profitable divorce settlements, or a mix of these sources.

What Is The Role Of A Freelance Travel Writer?

Travel journalists are crucial in influencing our perception of the world and its various cultures. Their writings provide insight into the diverse experiences and viewpoints of various individuals and locations, which in turn allows us to broaden our perspectives and enhance our understanding. Not only do they offer useful information about locations, but they also convey the soul of a place, its inhabitants, past, and traditions, giving us the sensation of actually being there.

Roles and Obligations

The specific duties and responsibilities of travel writers may differ depending on their role and the organization they work for. Nevertheless, travel writers are typically responsible for performing certain routine tasks and obligations, such as:

Conducting research and exploring destinations are important for travel writers before they visit a place. In order to write effectively about a location, it is important for writers to have a thorough understanding of its history, culture, and attractions, in addition to practical details such as transportation options, accommodation, and safety considerations. Once they arrive, travel writers may explore museums, galleries, historical sites, and other popular tourist destinations. They could also participate in local events, sample local cuisine, and engage with local residents to gain a deeper understanding of the destination.

Travel writers must create compelling and informative content that captivates their audience's attention. They need to be able to communicate the visual, auditory, and emotional experiences of a location and make readers feel as if they are truly present in that place. Travel writers must excel in the art of storytelling, employing vivid descriptions and effectively illustrating scenes with words.

Coming up with new and engaging story ideas is important for travel writers as they need to captivate their audience. They might find inspiration from their personal experiences or from current trends in the travel sector. They must be capable of recognizing distinctive perspectives and showcasing less popular landmarks or secret treasures.

Travel writers may need to capture photographs and videos to complement their written pieces. A good eye for composition, lighting, and framing is essential for them. They might also have to use software such as Adobe Photoshop or Final Cut Pro to edit their photos and videos.
Travel writers must possess the ability to edit and proofread their own work. It is necessary for them to verify for precision, clearness, and uniformity, and also to rectify any spelling or grammar mistakes.

Adhering to deadlines is crucial for travel writers, who often handle several projects simultaneously. In order to deliver high-quality content on time, it is essential for them to be well-organized and able to effectively manage their time.

Travel writers must make an effort to network and form connections with other writers, editors, and professionals in the industry. This can assist them in remaining current with trends and opportunities, and in having their work featured in respected publications.

Travel writers must follow ethical standards when writing about destinations. This means that journalists must be honest and truthful in their writing, show respect for local customs and traditions, and refrain from any conflicts of interest or biased reporting.

Different Kinds of Travel Writers

There are different kinds of travel writers, each specializing in their own specific area of interest and expertise. The following are some typical types of travel writers:

Destination-Focused Writers: Writers who focus on specific destinations specialize in writing about particular places, such as countries, cities, or regions. They might offer useful details such as transportation choices and places to stay, and also showcase attractions, events, and the local culture.
Adventure and Outdoor Writers: These writers specialize in writing about activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing. They could share their personal experiences or offer guidance and tips for readers who are keen on outdoor activities.
Food and Drink Travel Writers: Writers who focus on food and drink travel specialize in writing about local cuisine and beverages from different regions around the world. They might suggest dining establishments like restaurants, cafes, and bars, and also offer cooking advice and recipes.
Luxury Travel Writers: Writers specializing in luxury travel focus on exclusive travel experiences such as staying in five-star hotels, luxurious cruises, and private tours. They might offer suggestions for high-end travel locations and activities, along with advice for travelers who want to spend a lot on their upcoming trip.
Budget Travel Writers: Writers specializing in budget travel offer guidance on affordable travel options, helping readers make the most of their travel experiences while sticking to a budget. They might suggest affordable travel destinations and places to stay, and also offer advice on ways to cut costs on getting around, dining, and sightseeing.
Family Travel Writers: Writers who specialize in family travel focus on creating travel experiences that are suitable for families, offering advice and suggestions for families who are traveling with children. They might showcase family-friendly places to visit, places to stay, and things to do, and also offer advice on traveling with kids.
Cultural and Historical Writers: Writers specializing in culture and history emphasize museums, historical sites, and cultural events. They might offer understanding of local customs and traditions, as well as suggest cultural and historical attractions.

Skills You Need AS A Freelance Travel Writer

There are 2 freelance travel writing skills you must have to succeed. Success begins with the ability to sell your stories.

And in order to sell your stories, you need to be able to write a publishable piece. Even if you’re the most talented “natural” writer, you face these two major obstacles to getting your travel stories published.

Make Your Writing Suitable for Publication

The first skill you need for travel writing is the ability to write a piece that is good enough to be published. Many people believe they are capable of doing this, but new writers often find that it is not the case.

There are some aspiring travel writers whose travel writing skills are below average. In the world of freelance writing, this may not be a reason to end a deal. You need to take the required measures to improve your writing to meet the standards for publication.

In order for your query letters to be understood and for your article manuscripts to be ready for publication, you will also need to focus on improving the syntax, flow, and overall readability.

This is difficult! It might feel like a lot to handle, and even disheartening, but with perseverance, you will attain these travel writing skills.

With some dedication, it is still possible to have your articles published and succeed in this fiercely competitive field. Having enthusiasm, determination, and a strong desire to succeed are essential factors for achieving success in the field of freelance writing! And with help from external sources such as workshops, courses, coaching, additional reading, etc. you'll get better.

One more thing I've noticed about new travel writers trying to get published: many of them could benefit from honing their creative writing abilities. The work they have produced seems more like an advertorial and will need to be improved in order to be publishable. Creative travel writing skills are a common requirement for print magazines that offer higher pay and more prestige.

2. Story Selling

One of the most important skills for beginners in the travel writing industry is marketing, which poses a significant challenge. Numerous budding travel writers are able to create compelling tales, but they find it difficult to effectively promote themselves or persuade editors and clients to purchase their work.

Merely having writing talent is seldom sufficient in the field of freelance travel writing. It is important for you to also understand the skills of presenting ideas, creating connections with editors, marketing your personal image, and framing your stories in a way that is beneficial to publications and readers. Regrettably, the majority of beginners lack experience in these marketing skills.

Travel writers who are successful know how to recognize the specific interests and needs of magazines, blogs, tourism companies, and travel websites. They are skilled at creating persuasive pitches, identifying the appropriate audience, and presenting their stories as answers that captivate readers and drive involvement.

Knowing how to market your stories is equally vital as knowing how to create them. Many successful writers are not necessarily the most skilled, but rather those who know how to promote their expertise, convey their worth, and remain prominent in a fiercely competitive field.

How To Start Travel Writing Even Without Any Experience

Step 1: Change Your Mindset

Many people who want to become travel writers lack confidence because they don't have much experience, qualifications, or talent. The important thing is to acknowledge that everyone begins from the beginning. What is important is having motivation, perseverance, and a desire to learn.

Step 2: Begin Writing Now

Start by setting up a blog to hone your writing skills and see if you genuinely enjoy travel writing. Discuss various locations, attractions, and personal experiences in a professional and informative manner. This will also form the basis of your writing portfolio.

Step 3: Build a Portfolio

In addition to your blog, you should also submit articles to publications that do not pay in order to build your portfolio and establish credibility. Although there is debate surrounding writing for no pay, it does provide new writers with the opportunity to build their reputation and showcase their skills to editors at magazines that do offer compensation.

Step 4: Present your work to publications that offer payment.

Find publications that match your interests and propose story ideas that are relevant to their editors. Pitching is sometimes scary, but it's necessary for getting your writing published and advancing your career as a travel writer.

Step 5: Continue to educate yourself, connect with others, and stay informed by reading.

Keep informed about industry trends by reading travel writing, participating in media events, and engaging with editors, writers, and PR professionals. Networking provides access to brand new opportunities, press trips, and writing assignments.

Build A Travel Writing Portfolio

Freelance travel writing can offer a satisfying and flexible career choice for those who have a passion for both traveling and writing. How do you begin and distinguish yourself from everyone else? You must have a robust portfolio that highlights your abilities, personal style, and specialized area. Below are a few top tips for creating a freelance travel writing portfolio that appeals to clients and readers.

1 Discover your niche

Finding your niche is one of the initial steps in creating a freelance travel writing portfolio. A niche is a particular subject, perspective, or group of people that you concentrate on and specialize in. One possible topic could be solo travel, but you could also choose budget travel, adventure travel, cultural travel, or family travel. Discovering your niche will assist you in shaping your brand, focusing on your market, and distinguishing yourself from rivals.

2. Start a blog

A blog provides an excellent platform to display your freelance travel writing portfolio on the internet. You have the ability to use it for publishing your own stories, sharing your tips and insights, and establishing your credibility and authority. A blog can also aid in the improvement of your writing abilities, the development of your unique style, and the expansion of your professional connections. Platforms such as WordPress, Medium, or Substack can be utilized for the purpose of creating and hosting your blog.

3. Submit pitches

You can also expand your freelance travel writing portfolio by pitching your ideas and stories to publications that are a good fit for your niche and writing style. Online magazines, websites, newsletters, or blogs that welcome contributions from freelance writers are viable options for you to explore. You can also look for printed magazines, newspapers, or books that feature travel-related material. Submitting your work to publications can help you increase your visibility, generate revenue, and expand your range of published pieces.

4. Utilize social media

Using social media can be an effective way to showcase your freelance travel writing portfolio and engage with your audience. You can utilize social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to post your blog entries, display your videos, and interact with your audience. You can also utilize social media to connect with other travel writers, editors, and influencers and discover new chances for partnerships and collaborations in the industry.

5. Update your portfolio

Regularly update your freelance travel writing portfolio as you produce more content and become more experienced. Make sure to maintain a record of your published work, testimonials, and feedback, and include them in your portfolio. It is important to delete any outdated, irrelevant, or low-quality work that doesn't showcase your current skills and expertise. Keeping your portfolio up to date will allow you to display your top work and draw in a larger audience of clients and readers.

Tips for Finding Clients on the Best Platforms

By sharing content on social media, you are establishing yourself as an expert in your specific field, effectively promoting and marketing yourself. This will take a long time as it is a slow process. Nevertheless, maintaining consistency will ultimately benefit you the most in the future.
Begin writing on Medium or your blog at least two times a week, and maintain a high level of consistency.
Joining LinkedIn and checking the job postings daily is an option. Additionally, you have the option to begin sharing content on LinkedIn.
Begin looking for blogs or magazines within your specific industry. If you're a literature enthusiast, there are numerous literary magazines that accept submissions and even offer payment for your work. But your pitch needs to be truly impressive in order to succeed.
If you're interested in blogging and content writing opportunities, the ProBlogger Job Board is a good option for finding this type of work. Contrary to bidding websites, clients post jobs directly here, mainly related to blogs, startups, and businesses. The pay may not be very high, but the jobs here are decent and straightforward.
Textbroker is a platform where companies and clients can request articles, and writers are compensated based on the number of words they deliver. The salary is also not very high, but you can make do with it to begin with. Joining is simple. All you need to do is complete short writing assessments and then you can begin.
Start a cold email. Cold emailing involves reaching out to potential clients or contacts to offer your professional services to those who may require them. If you subscribe to someone's newsletter and notice that their email writing could use some improvement, consider identifying their challenge and proposing your idea or solution to help them.
Make new connections with 10 to 15 people in order to not only offer your services to them in the future but also to have the opportunity to learn from them. Establishing and maintaining a network of contacts is crucial.

Conclusion

Finally, continue to make an effort and remain consistent. If you truly believe in the power of your words, then keep writing. Writing is the key to improving your skills, shamelessly promoting yourself, and staying relevant to your audience. In addition, continue reading books and other content to further engage with your audience.

Note: There are plenty of opportunities to find clients as long as you are putting in the effort.

Continue to write, remain connected to your audience, maintain a high level of consistency for a minimum of 6 months before considering any changes to your strategy, and above all, continue to engage with individuals who share your interests.

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