Travel Journalism: Skills, Passion, And Adventure

Travel journalism is a career that involves travelling to a variety of destinations and creating written content about those locations. Travel journalists need to be skilled writers and communicators, with a passion for travel and an ability to craft compelling stories. They must also be able to conduct effective interviews and generate in-depth features and news stories. While a degree is not always necessary, especially for freelancers, earning a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field can help one find full-time jobs with media outlets. Additionally, internships and building a strong portfolio are important steps to becoming a successful travel journalist.

Education and training

A bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related area such as tourism and hospitality management is often required to become a travel journalist. During this three- to four-year program, you will develop writing techniques, storytelling abilities, and media ethics knowledge. Some universities offer study-abroad opportunities, which can help aspiring travel journalists become comfortable with travelling to new places. Additionally, it is beneficial to pursue internships with news outlets to gain hands-on experience in pitching stories, interviewing, and preparing news reports.

While a degree is not necessary if you plan to work as a freelance travel journalist, it can enhance your credentials and increase your chances of obtaining a steady-paycheck job. If you are unable to pursue a bachelor's degree, consider enrolling in an online writing course specifically for travel journalism, such as Roy Stevenson's Online Travel Writing & Marketing Master Class. Alternatively, you can explore postgraduate courses, which can provide you with the qualifications needed to advance in your career, such as a deputy editor position.

In addition to formal education, it is crucial to develop a strong writing portfolio. Practice writing about your hometown, including local attractions and news stories, to enhance your descriptive skills and explore different aspects of travel journalism. Building a digital portfolio showcasing your published work, such as through a website or blog, can also help you provide examples of your capabilities to potential employers.

To further enhance your skills, consider developing mentorship relationships with established travel journalists or writers. For example, Roy Stevenson offers both group and one-on-one coaching for aspiring writers. Additionally, joining a writer's organisation, such as the Society of Professional Journalists, can provide you with learning opportunities, networking events, and market leads.

Gaining experience

Education

Obtaining a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as journalism, communications, or English is a common first step. During your degree, you will learn essential writing techniques, storytelling, and media ethics, which will provide a strong foundation for your future career.

Internships and Mentorships

Completing internships or mentorships is a great way to gain hands-on experience. Look for internships with news outlets, magazines, or other media organisations. These opportunities will teach you how to pitch stories, interview people, and prepare news reports, which are crucial skills for travel journalism.

Writing Practice

Developing your writing skills is essential. Start by writing about your hometown, including local attractions and interesting news stories. Consider what others may want to learn about your area and write about those topics. This practice will help you explore different aspects of travel journalism, such as arts, culture, business, or entertainment.

Build a Portfolio

As you gain experience and develop your writing, create a digital portfolio to showcase your work. Build a website or blog to display your published content. If you can't share full articles, include links to your published pieces. Your portfolio can also include other webpages that highlight your experience and qualifications, such as your resume or professional social media accounts.

Network and Pitch Ideas

Attend writing workshops and conferences to meet other travel writers, editors, and publishers. Building a network in the industry can help you learn about upcoming job opportunities and pitch your ideas. When pitching, remember to keep it short and concise, and always offer a unique angle or perspective. Editors receive many pitches, so make sure yours stands out by demonstrating your knowledge of their publication and offering something different.

Develop a Specialty

Consider developing a specialty or niche within travel journalism. This could be a particular region or topic that you become an expert in. For example, you could focus on food travel journalism, photojournalism, or exposé journalism. Having a specialty can make you more attractive to editors and help you build a reputation in the industry.

Building a portfolio

Your portfolio can be a simple website with a biography and a list of published clips. However, you can also add depth with a CV, personal projects, and blog posts. It is important to keep your portfolio updated with your most recent work and ensure it is free of any grammatical or spelling errors.

If you are just starting and don't have many samples, you can begin by writing about your hometown, including attractions and interesting stories. You can also cover news events close to home and use those drafts as samples. Alternatively, you can start a blog on a platform like WordPress and create fact-based posts on a topic you are passionate about.

When building your portfolio, it is important to showcase your range as a writer. Include a variety of pieces, such as newspaper articles, magazine articles, digital articles, blog posts, and even audio or video clips. If you are proud of a piece of work, include it in your portfolio, regardless of whether it was published in a big-name publication or a smaller blog.

Finally, consider using a platform like Clippings.me to build your portfolio. Clippings.me is a free online service that helps journalists create professional-looking online portfolios with no web development experience required.

Pitching stories

Develop a Good Story Idea

The key to a successful pitch is to find a unique and interesting angle that will capture the editor's attention. Think about what makes this place or attraction worth writing about and how it will benefit the publication's readers. Is there a newsworthy event or topic that you can tie your story to? Can you offer a fresh perspective or insight that hasn't been covered before? Remember, just because you love a place, doesn't mean an editor will. So, focus on what makes it distinctive and appealing to their audience.

Identify Your Target Publications

Before pitching, research and create a list of potential publications that might be interested in your story idea. Look for magazines, newspapers, websites, or other media outlets that publish similar content or cater to a specific niche. Cast a wide net and aim for a large list of potential markets, as this will increase your chances of success. Don't forget to consider the "voice" and audience of each publication to ensure your pitch is tailored to their style and interests.

Craft a Compelling Query Letter

Once you have your story idea and target publications, it's time to write your query letter. This is where you sell your story idea to the editor. Include interesting and obscure facts about your destination, and demonstrate why your story is a good fit for their publication. If you have previously published work, provide links or attachments to showcase your writing ability. Be sure to follow the editorial submission guidelines of each publication when crafting your query letter.

Send Your Pitches

Don't hold back—send your query letter to all the publications on your list. Freelance writing is unpredictable, and you never know which editor will be interested in your story. Sending your pitches simultaneously also creates a sense of urgency and increases the chances of a positive response. Don't wait for replies; keep pitching and working on your next story idea.

Handle Rejections and Acceptances

If your pitch is accepted, make sure to clarify the details before writing the article. Confirm the word count, deadline, rate of pay, and payment terms. If your pitch is rejected, don't be discouraged. Put the story idea aside and move on to the next one. You can always revisit it later and try pitching it from a different angle or to a different publication.

Networking

Build a Network of Writers, Editors, and Publishers:

Attend writing workshops, conferences, and industry events to meet fellow travel writers, editors, and publishers. These events provide valuable opportunities to learn, improve your writing skills, and make professional connections. By actively participating and engaging with others in the industry, you can expand your network and create lasting relationships that may benefit your career.

Utilize Mentoring Opportunities:

Consider seeking a mentor in the field of travel journalism. A mentor can provide guidance, advice, and insights based on their own experiences. They can help you navigate the industry, improve your writing and pitching skills, and introduce you to their own network of contacts. Look for established professionals who are willing to offer coaching or mentoring services, such as Roy Stevenson, who offers both group and one-on-one coaching.

Start Small and Local:

Begin building your network by connecting with local publications, such as your local paper or magazine. Research their previously published content to understand their style and the types of stories they publish. If you can provide a unique and fitting pitch, don't hesitate to contact the editor and propose your idea. Starting small and local can lead to valuable connections and help build your portfolio.

Join Professional Organizations:

Consider joining writer's organizations, such as the Society of Professional Journalists. These organizations offer numerous benefits, including networking opportunities, skill development, and access to industry events. They provide a platform to connect with like-minded individuals and established professionals, allowing you to expand your network and enhance your career prospects.

Leverage Social Media:

Social media platforms can be powerful tools for networking and self-promotion. Follow travel journalists on social media and engage with their content. Many journalists share their experiences, insights, and advice on social media, providing an opportunity to learn and connect with them directly. Additionally, you can use social media to showcase your own work, build a personal brand, and connect with potential employers or collaborators.

Attend Travel Industry Events:

Keep an eye out for travel industry events, such as trade shows, conferences, or exhibitions. These events bring together professionals from various sectors of the travel industry, including journalists, bloggers, influencers, and tourism representatives. By attending these events, you can meet potential collaborators, learn about industry trends, and expand your network beyond the journalism sphere.

Remember, networking is about building genuine connections and fostering mutually beneficial relationships. Be open to learning from others, sharing your own experiences, and offering value wherever possible. Effective networking can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and career advancements in the field of travel journalism.

Frequently asked questions