Did you know that over 80% of travel plans are done through the internet? With millions of people searching for travel info online, you’d expect a travel blogger to have it easier since you already have an active audience hungry for information. However, you need to work extra hard to be a good travel blogger.
It is not hard to be a good travel blogger, but you need to be consistent, active, trendy and have content that travelers seek. When travelling, seek the unusual, talk to people, and be curious. Read about destinations extensively, avoid jargon, have strong headings, and keep the blogs interesting.
Travel blogging consumes a lot of time and requires commitment. People are always looking out for new destinations, and they expect you to provide the information they seek. To be an authority in the industry, you have to work hard and remain committed long term.
Why Being A Travel Blogger Is Sometimes Hard
Watching videos and reading about travel bloggers’ travel experiences makes their lives look like a roller coaster of never-ending fun and excitement.
However, most professional travel bloggers with millions of followers did not become successful overnight. They worked hard, put in the time, and made sacrifices to be successful.
Here are reasons why travel blogging is hard.
It is expensive
If you intend to travel while blogging, you will need to make a heavy investment over a long period before you can start earning from your blog. Unfortunately, you cannot determine how long it will take for your blogs to start bringing in money. Most travel bloggers spend years blogging before they start earning from it.
Travel blogging is work-intensive
You will spend time researching, whether blogging without travel or blogging while travelling. Your readers expect to get accurate information from your blogs. If you fall short of their expectation, or if they find inaccuracies in your blogs, your reputation will be on the line.
It takes more than writing posts
Professional travel bloggers also reach out to potential advertisers, respond to interested advertisers, edit photos, and pitch travel contacts. They also network with people in the travel industry, do a lot of video editing, maintain a presence on social media, and track their finances.
You need to have a genuine interest in travel
Blogging can take a lot out of you, and if you don’t enjoy what you do, it will eventually wear you down. You need to know travel trends, get the latest information on travel destinations, and have a plan for the following few blogs now. You should also anticipate concerns your readers will likely raise and address them in your blog before they ask.
You have to prove you are a worthwhile investment, which takes time
Travel bloggers don’t earn in the first year. Many take years to make their first $100. Advertisers need to know your blog is worth their investment, so you need to work to prove your worth.
On paper, travel blogging looks like fun and sometimes an easy task. Pick a location, research, and write a post. Unfortunately, the reality is different, and you need to be aware of this before you embark on this journey. Fortunately, with hard work, travel blogging is rewarding, and if you get it right, you’ll be living your best life soon.