Exploring Work Of A Freelance Travel Writer

By Dorothy Cooper


When it comes to professional writing, there are a number of different positions. One of these is that of a freelance travel writer. In most cases, these are freelance writers whom write about different aspects of travel. These aspects often include, food, lodging, music, nightlife, transportation and accommodations.

In most cases, these individuals gather information by visiting different areas. As these individuals are often paid per assignment rather than a hourly wage or salary, there can often be long hours for little pay when it comes to meeting deadlines. While no degree is required, a journalism or English degree and past writing experience can often be beneficial in acquiring jobs in this area.

With the onset of the internet, there are fewer jobs available when it comes to professionals working in this area. For, the blog world is overloaded with people owning and blogging to sites in this regard. As such, readers are starting to turn to the internet for information related to vacation planning and travel and less to traditional magazines, newspapers and publications like Time, Newsweek, Outdoor World and Reader's Digest.

Before the onset of the internet, cable and satellite, freelance writers in this area were only able to publish articles in magazines and newspapers. Now, with cable and satellite companies having publications and travel related channels, there are many more opportunities for these individuals. While this is the case, most publications do require writers to carry a subscription of the publications for which one writes.

Whether writing for a channel, guide, blog or publication, there are some important things to consider. For, even when being able to find calls for submissions, competition can often be fierce. As such, even when it comes those accepting work, it is essential to follow all guidelines when preparing material for submission. Otherwise, once submitted, it is likely the writing will be rejected and returned for correction.

When first setting out to be a freelance writer of this nature, it is important to take small steps. In most cases, an individual will break into the genre by writing free articles for travel related websites. In the process, the individual may not receive pay but can learn a lot about travel writing. At the same time, it pays to know when to stop writing for free and move on to paid jobs.

While providing work to these sites, the individual can also build a professional portfolio, become familiar with writing guidelines and perfect pitch, style and tone. In addition, the individual will most likely work with editors and staff. In doing so, these volunteer writing jobs can often be good networking tools for finding paying jobs in the future. Whereas, editors and staff can often provide references when applying to those jobs.

Whether writing in this genre or other areas, one of the most important aspects of this type writing is knowing the audience. For, when writing with the perspective of an audience in mind, writers are often more successful. Whereas, publications are more likely to accept additional work in the future.




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