How to Make More Money As a Travel Writer

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Hello, travel writers,

Today we want to talk about money. Let’s be honest: Most of us aren’t in this because we think it’s going to turn us into billionaires. Rates for freelancers and salaries for full-time journalists are rough out there right now, and while all of us travel writers are rich in experiences, we know that doesn’t always pay the bills. That’s why we want to help you make the most of this endeavor financially, too.

We talk all about negotiating in the final class of our current series, including helpful tips from consultant, lecturer, and CEO Adriana Lacy (Forbes 30 Under 30). And while we know all too well the budget limitations that editors deal with on the inside, we always encourage advocating for yourself. If money’s on your mind, we’re here to help you focus: In addition to sending out our usual list of job opportunities, we’ll now be labeling the ones that pay higher than average in our newsletter. On our job board, we’ll be highlighting anything that pays $100K and above.

Have questions about navigating the financial world of freelance writing? You can always email us at [email protected]. Now, onto the jobs and calls for pitches.

Calls for Pitches

Juggernaut: Has opened its general pitches and even provided a handy pitch guide — which includes instructions on how to pitch us for several beats — Culture, History, Food, Politics, Business, Technology, and Science + Health. See more.

Trails Magazine: Trails is looking for pitches for Issues 10 and 11. See more.

QueerAF: Is looking for pitches from early talent Trans+ writers and journalists to write 700-1000 word history articles - one for each day of Trans+ History Week! See more.

TIMELY: JRNY: JRNY Travel Magazine needs a writer for a California road trip article. Email [email protected] with the words "Pitch: California road trip" in the subject line by end of day today.

Dwell: Opened its general pitch call for home tours, reported pieces, interviews, and essays, all focused on the power of smart design and new ideas about where and how we live. See more.

Buzzfeed Tasty: Is looking for freelance food writers to contribute evergreen and timely stories on home cooking and trending food & dining moments — all with an approachable, down-to-earth POV. See more.

Compose .ly: Is looking for talented freelance writers with a passion for travel writing to create bylined content for one of its clients, a major platform for travel guides and experiences. See more.

Report for America: Is currently accepting Report for America corps member applications for the 2025-2026 program year. See more.

Full-Time Job Openings

Nat Geo: Is hiring a Senior Digital Editor who contributes to and executes National Geographic’s visually rich and scientifically sourced digital storytelling. This editing role makes data-informed content decisions that drive results by creating relevant, timely, and conversation-worthy content with a National Geographic lens across text and video platforms. See more.

HIGH PAYING! CBS: CBS New York, the #1 television station owned by Paramount Global, is seeking an experienced, thoughtful, and collaborative leader to oversee day-to-day newsroom operations in the role of Assistant News Director! This person will drive all aspects of the editorial mission and work closely with the News Director to implement the strategic plan for content across all platforms. See more.

HIGH PAYING! Via: Via is hiring a Senior Editor who will work to improve mobility by forging new partnerships with public transit providers through thoughtful, exceptionally-written proposals. See more.

Lonely Planet: Is hiring a Social Media Manager to manage daily content creation, copywriting, posting and community engagement across Lonely Planet’s social media channels See more.

Elle: Is looking for a Fashion Editor to join their tight-knit market team, covering fashion and accessories across platforms. The ideal candidate is upbeat, organized and efficient, with impeccable taste and strong attention to detail. They should be a team player with excellent writing skills and tons of creative ideas. See more.

The Independent: Is seeking an experienced Lifestyle/Culture journalist to help lead our coverage as we continue to expand our editorial operation. The Deputy Lifestyle and Culture News Editor will be passionate about a range of topics across both genres, from health, travel, and style to reality TV. See more.

The Met: Is hiring an Associate Editor, who will primarily edit gallery texts to ensure that they align with the museum strategic plans and commitments. You will collaborate with authors to produce interpretive materials that engage visitors, inspire appreciation, and encourage further study. See more.

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One Place We Love

Say what you will about all-inclusive resorts, but they’re steadily rising in popularity, including among the luxury traveler — and especially for multi-gen trips. (Everyone gets to relax in their own way without constantly racking up a bigger hotel bill). Nina just took a long-weekend family trip to Princess Senses the Mangrove in Jamaica. The adults-only resort just opened in December, and in addition to the connecting Jacuzzi suite they stayed in (spacious enough for four adult sisters and all the things they packed, IYKYK), it’s home to some really beautiful overwater villas.

One Story We Love

Since we’re on the topic of $ today, we recommend reading Amelia Edelman’s newest for T+L: I Tried Canyon Ranch's New $20,000 Wellness Program — and It Changed the Way I Think About Health. Would you pay $20K for a four-day trip that includes 18 clinical consultations, 15 diagnostic tests, educational seminars, and tailored workouts? Amelia says it wasn’t exactly fun… or relaxing… but it may have saved her life — or at least taught her how to expand her healthy years. Health is wealth, after all.

See you in class,

Stacey & Nina