“The Average Day in the Life of a Travel Writer” offers an insider’s perspective on the dynamic and ever-changing nature of being a travel writer. While acknowledging the challenge of summarizing an average day in this profession, the author provides two detailed examples of their own experiences. The first day entails a whirlwind of writing, exploring, and networking while on a trip to Ireland. The second day, on the other hand, reveals a more domestic routine, with meetings, interviews, and writing sessions. Through these vivid descriptions, readers gain a glimpse into the multifaceted and unpredictable life of a travel writer.
Travel Writer’s Day #1
10-12: Morning Routine and Preparation
The day begins with the travel writer waking up late after a long 10-hour driving day touring the Ring of Kerry and Ring of Skellig, and finally returning to Dublin. The writer then spends the next two hours checking and responding to emails, pulling up research for articles, and getting ready to go out for the day’s work.
12-12:15: Setting Up Workspace at Cafe
The travel writer walks through Trinity College to a café to set up and work for the afternoon. This café provides a suitable environment for the writer to focus and be productive.
12:15-12:45: Starting a Column
The writer begins the day’s work by diving into writing one column. This involves organizing thoughts, conducting research, and crafting compelling content.
12:45-2:50: Working on a Destination Package
The travel writer shifts gears and starts working on a two-article destination package. This involves researching the destination, gathering information, and crafting engaging content that will appeal to readers.
2:50-3:10: Taking a Break
To give the mind a break from writing, the travel writer takes a short break to plow through the overflowing inbox. This helps clear the mind and allows for a fresh perspective when returning to writing.
3:10-3:50: Finishing a Column
The writer returns to writing and completes one column. This requires reviewing and revising the content to ensure accuracy and quality.
3:50-4:45: Completing the Destination Package
To meet deadlines, the travel writer focuses on finishing the two-article destination package. This involves synthesizing information, crafting engaging narratives, and ensuring the content is polished.
4:45-5: Starting Another Column
After completing the destination package, the writer begins working on another column. This involves researching, organizing thoughts, and starting to write another engaging piece.
5-5:45: Exploring Potential Magazine Department Idea
To gather inspiration and find new story angles, the travel writer walks across town to another café. Along the way, the writer takes pictures and notes on an area that could be suitable for a magazine department the writer hopes to break into.
5:45-7:55: Managing Emails and Booking Appointments
Upon arriving at the café, the travel writer dives into email management, cleaning out the inbox, and setting interview appointments for the following week. Additionally, the writer makes hotel and Airbnb bookings for the next week’s destination.
7:55-8:30: Preparing for Evening Activity
The travel writer returns to the hotel to drop off the laptop and change clothes in preparation for an evening activity. This allows for a brief break and time to freshen up before meeting a local journalist.
8:30-11:15: Pub Crawl and Dinner
The writer meets a local journalist who takes them on a pub crawl of iconic Dublin pubs. This provides an opportunity to immerse in the local culture and gain insights that can be incorporated into future articles. The pub crawl is followed by dinner.
11:15-11:50: Packing for the Next Day’s Flight
Upon returning from the pub crawl and dinner, the writer dedicates time to packing for the flight scheduled for the next day. This ensures a smooth departure and minimizes stress.
11:50-12:30: Editing Photos and Setting Up Feature Articles
The travel writer sets up photos received from public relations contacts and edits their own photos for the feature articles that still need to be written. This ensures visual content aligns with the articles and enhances the reading experience.
12:30-1:30: Outlining and Starting Feature Articles
Lastly, the writer outlines both feature articles and begins writing their introductions and a few sections. This sets the groundwork for completing the articles in the following days.
Travel Writer’s Day #2
8:30-10:30: Morning Routine and Preparation
The day starts with the travel writer responding to emails, getting ready for the day’s activities, and cooking some food for a dinner later in the evening. Additionally, the writer takes care of household tasks such as cleaning the house and setting the table for dinner.
10:45-12:30: Traveling and Confirming Appointments
The writer attempts to take the train downtown to work from a café before scheduled meetings, but unfortunately, the train is not running. Instead, the writer hops on the bus and uses the commute time to conduct an interview. Upon arrival, the writer goes through email to confirm the remaining appointments for the day.
12:30-2:15: Networking Lunch and Late Call
The travel writer engages in a networking lunch with someone from Budget Travel. Due to a snowstorm in the morning, the person is late, so the writer adjusts the schedule and moves the 2 p.m. call to a later time.
2:30-4:30: Interviews and Catching Up on Email
The writer sets up shop in a nearby café and conducts eight 15-minute interviews for upcoming stories. Additionally, the writer takes the opportunity to call several sources who missed previous appointments to reschedule interviews. During this time, the writer catches up on email and sets appointments for the following week.
4:30-4:55: Coaching Call and Heading Home
The writer takes some time to talk to an aspiring travel writer who has expressed interest in coaching. After the call, the writer heads back towards their house.
5:30-6:10: Espresso and Article Outlining
Before reaching home, the writer stops at a café to enjoy an espresso and engage in a quick article outlining session. This allows for the generation of ideas and organization of thoughts.
6:10-6:30: Walking Home
The travel writer walks home, using this time to clear the mind and decompress after a busy day.
6:30-bed: Dinner and Informal Interview
The writer spends the evening having dinner and playing board games with friends. During this time, the writer takes the opportunity to informally interview a friend about a destination for an upcoming article. This informal conversation provides valuable insights and unique perspectives.
Other Aspects of a Travel Writer’s Day
The life of a travel writer encompasses various aspects, including travel/exploration days, meeting days, and resting days. Travel/exploration days involve visiting destinations, exploring new places, and gathering material for articles. Meeting days consist of networking, conducting interviews, and engaging in meetings with industry professionals. Resting days provide the opportunity to recharge and take a break from work.
Tips for Maximizing Productive Time and Resting Time
In order to maximize productivity and make the most of resting time, travel writers can consider the following tips:
Separating Writing and Meetings
Try to keep writing and meetings separate to ensure dedicated time for each activity. This allows for better focus and utilization of time.
Managing Time Efficiently
Develop a time management system or schedule to prioritize tasks and activities. This enables travel writers to allocate time effectively and complete tasks in a timely manner.
Setting Priorities
Identify the most important tasks or projects and prioritize them accordingly. This ensures that essential work is completed first, minimizing stress and potential delays.
Taking Breaks and Resting
Incorporate short breaks into the workday to rest the mind and prevent burnout. Taking breaks helps improve focus and productivity when returning to work.
Challenges of the Travel Writer’s Life
Lack of Routine
One of the challenges faced by travel writers is the lack of a regular routine. Due to constantly being on the move and exploring new destinations, it can be difficult to establish a consistent daily schedule.
Meeting Deadlines
Travel writers often have to work under tight deadlines to submit articles or deliver content. Meeting these deadlines can be a challenge, especially when facing unexpected delays or obstacles during travel.
Managing Multiple Projects
Travel writers typically work on multiple projects simultaneously, juggling various assignments, interviews, and research. This requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
Balancing Travel and Work
Finding a balance between exploring new places and completing work responsibilities can be challenging for travel writers. It requires careful planning and time management to ensure both travel experiences and work commitments are fulfilled.
Adapting to New Locations
Travel writers frequently find themselves in unfamiliar environments and must adapt quickly to different cultures, languages, and logistical challenges. This adaptability is crucial for navigating unfamiliar territories and finding unique story angles.
Upsides of the Travel Writer’s Life
Flexibility
One of the highlights of being a travel writer is the flexibility it offers. Travel writers have the freedom to choose their own assignments, set their own schedules, and work remotely from various locations.
Exploring New Places
Travel writers have the opportunity to visit and explore new destinations as part of their work. This allows for firsthand experiences, cultural immersion, and a deeper understanding of different places around the world.
Meeting Interesting People
Through interviews and networking, travel writers often have the chance to interact with interesting individuals, including locals, fellow writers, industry professionals, and travelers. These connections can lead to unique story opportunities and provide valuable insights.
Being Your Own Boss
As freelance professionals, travel writers have the autonomy to manage their own careers and make decisions that align with their goals and interests. This level of freedom can be empowering and rewarding.
Creating Memorable Experiences
Travel writers have the opportunity to create lasting memories and experiences through their work. From witnessing incredible sights to engaging in local activities, travel writing allows for the capture of unique moments that can be shared with readers.
How to Start a Career as a Travel Writer
Building a Portfolio
Building a diverse and impressive portfolio is essential for starting a career as a travel writer. This involves writing and publishing articles in various outlets, such as magazines, websites, and blogs. Building a portfolio demonstrates expertise and attracts potential clients or employers.
Networking and Building Connections
Networking is crucial for gaining opportunities and building relationships within the travel writing industry. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with fellow writers and industry professionals can lead to valuable connections and job opportunities.
Pitching and Submitting Articles
Learning how to pitch and submit articles is essential for a travel writer. This involves researching suitable publications, tailoring pitches to match their needs, and submitting high-quality articles that meet editorial guidelines.
Continuous Learning and Improvement
To succeed as a travel writer, it’s important to continuously learn and improve writing skills. This can be done through reading extensively, taking writing courses or workshops, and seeking feedback from experienced professionals. Continuous learning helps refine writing abilities and stay updated with industry trends.
Tools and Resources for Travel Writers
Travel Planning Apps and Websites
Various travel planning apps and websites can assist travel writers in researching and organizing their trips. These tools provide information on destinations, flights, accommodations, and activities, making the planning process more efficient.
Writing and Editing Software
Using reliable writing and editing software can enhance the quality and efficiency of a travel writer’s work. Popular tools include Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Grammarly, which help with grammar, spelling, and overall writing structure.
Online Research Tools
Online research tools such as Google Scholar, databases, and online libraries can assist travel writers in gathering accurate and reliable information. These resources help ensure that articles are well-researched and supported by valid sources.
Contact Management and Organization Tools
To stay organized and manage contacts effectively, travel writers can utilize contact management and organization tools. Examples include customer relationship management (CRM) software like HubSpot or simple spreadsheet software to keep track of leads, interviews, and important contacts.
Travel Writing Courses and Workshops
Participating in travel writing courses and workshops can provide valuable insights and guidance for aspiring travel writers. These programs offer instruction on writing techniques, pitching strategies, and the business side of travel writing. They also provide opportunities to receive feedback and connect with industry professionals.
