Do you have an interest in launching a lifestyle blog about your travels? Is it your dream to see your travel essays in print or on a travel website? If so, having life writing or autobiographical skills is your first step in those directions. Instead of writing about why you believe your trip was the best, you’ll be inspiring your readers with your stories.
You already have excellent writing and editing skills. However, travel writing is new to you. Potential readers know what they love in a travel essay, as well as what makes them click away. So, with that in mind, I’m going to go over what makes a reader stick around.
Trip Essays: What Keeps Readers Reading
If your story is about your trip, that’s when it’s an excellent idea to share your travel schedule, as well as the names of the restaurants and attractions. Otherwise, readers want to hear about the aspects of the trip that stands out the most to you. Think about ways you would answer this question, “How was your trip?” Instead of providing a rambling answer, keep it concise and to the point.
Paint Pictures with Your Words
How compelling are the scenes you’re describing? Make the snapshots you’re describing great. Give the reader a vivid snapshot, arouse their curiosity with a critical account, and then fill in the story with some background. Then, move into another vivid snapshot and let the reader know about the day-to-day activities during your travels.
Don’t Forget Vivid Descriptions
When you’re painting pictures with your words, take your time while telling your story. Did you see something weird? Tell the reader why. Show the reader why things were incredible or amazing, using vivid descriptions. Your experiences will help the reader understand why you’re choosing your adjectives. Your readers should imagine hearing, seeing, and tasting what you did during your adventures.
Self-Editing is Essential
Re-read your travel essay after it’s set aside for a day or two. Can you see the areas where you need more description? Did you leave out parts of your account? Will any of the essay confuse your readers? Can any rambling or repeated information be edited? Your readers should laugh, feel, learn, or all of the above. If you’re experiencing new horizons or experiences, your essay should inspire your readers to do the same without being preachy.
Breaking Into Print
Once your essay is written and polished, it’s time to research the market and send out queries. Here’s a list of websites listing calls for travel writers:
- Finding a Good Home for Your Work — Travel Writing Markets
- Travel Writing: Explore 20 World-Class In-Flight Magazines That Pay
- Get paid to write online with this epic directory of 99 travel publications (both online and in print) that pay travel writers up to $4,000 per article!
- Become a Content Writer: Travel Marketing Startup Position (I don’t know anything about this one—I just found it while writing this piece.)
As you can see, it’s possible to find TONS of opportunities for travel writers. You can also look at the latest edition of The Writer’s Market for where to find print publications as well.
Final Thoughts
If you love traveling, going on weekend adventures, or taking day trips with your family, travel writing may be an excellent fit. No matter if you want to launch a lifestyle blog or query potential leads, it’s possible to reach readers with your essays.