Exploring Work Of A Freelance Travel Writer

By Dorothy Cooper


When it comes to freelancing, there are a number of areas in which an individual can work. In one case, an individual can provide submissions to various publications and newspapers as a freelance travel writer. While individuals often think freelancing is more laid back than working a 9 to 5 job, this is not always the case.

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.

In the past, articles related to travel were mostly published in magazines and newspapers. With the onset of cable, internet, and satellite publications, there are now new outlets such as the Travel Channel and others which accept this type material. As such, it can often pay to be creative when looking for publications in which to submit articles of this nature.

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.

While there are a number of websites looking for writers whom will work for free, there are also those whom will provide money or points for different types of writing. In many cases, these are blogs and websites which accept articles from writers with regards to past travel experiences. For, when this is the case, there is no need to pay expenses or reimburse individuals for monies paid while on assignment.

While individuals may not be paid for working on some of these sites, it can often pay to gain experience, build a professional portfolio and strengthen writing skills in the area. For, different areas of the freelance writing world often have different rules with regards to pitch, style and tone. In addition, by working with editors on these sites, the individual often builds networking skills which can be useful when applying to, and working on jobs in the future.

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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