Travel writing, or the urge to become a travel writer, can provoke a weird combination of FOMO and FUD. We fear missing out on one of life’s great vocations, yet we also fear our ability to deliver, due to a lack of experience, qualifications, or talent.

These fears are unwarranted.

I’m starting a new video series where I hope to answer some of the questions many wannabe and new travel writers have. The first gives 5 steps into travel writing that anyone can do – even with zero experience, qualifications or talent.

My argument – it doesn’t take talent to hit a deadline, or to research a destination before you go, or to start writing blog posts about your neighbourhood and the trips you go on.

Watch the video for this short and sweet snapshot of how anyone can become a travel writer, even if they lack experience, qualifications and talent.

Step 1: Shift Your Mindset
Many aspiring travel writers doubt themselves due to a lack of experience, qualifications, or talent. The key is to recognize that everyone starts from scratch. What matters is motivation, persistence, and the willingness to learn.

Step 2: Start Writing Now
Begin by creating a blog to practice writing and determine if travel writing is truly enjoyable for you. Cover destinations, local attractions, and personal experiences in a professional, informative way. This also serves as the foundation of your writing portfolio.

Step 3: Create a Portfolio
Beyond your blog, submit articles to non-paying publications to gain bylines and credibility. While writing for free is controversial, it helps new writers establish credentials and demonstrate their ability to editors at paying publications.

Step 4: Pitch to Paying Publications
Identify publications that align with your interests and pitch relevant story ideas to their editors. Pitching can be intimidating, but it’s essential to getting your work published and shaping your career as a travel writer.

Step 5: Keep Learning, Networking, and Reading
Stay up to date with industry trends by reading travel writing, attending media events, and connecting with editors, writers, and PR professionals. Networking opens doors to new opportunities, press trips, and writing gigs.