Voyagers and wordsmiths: the field of travel writing, careers connected and the qualities required to discover the right path The field of travel writing, all it involves and careers connected to it

Malaz Dhirar

Many have likely stumbled across travel writing in one way or the other. It just sounds like a plain job, traveling to a place and writing all about it. Simple, right? Nope, not even close. Travel writing is a vast, nebulous field which covers reporting, journalism, diaries, travel guides and even environmental books. 

Travel writing can be a great job for wanderlusters, those passionate to learn about the world and see everything with their own eyes. Travel writers may visit the same places but their journeys are never the same. Ever since its early beginnings, it continues to inspire, educate and entertain (1)(2). 

Qualities required for travel writing 

As fun and colorful as it sounds, travel writing isn’t easy. Travel writers create a gateway to deeper understanding of the world. But they don’t just provide knowledge, travel writers grasp the true essence of the places they visit, providing a glimpse of its history, culture and values. A capable travel writer can make people feel like they visited these places themselves. 

The requirements of travel writing generally vary according to their jobs. The types of writing can also vary depending on the goal. However, one thing that stays similar would be the qualities for the career. Such as; 

1-Writing; naturally the most fundamental one of all. Skilled travel writers set themselves apart from the competition. Travel writing is like painting a picture with words, not simply taking facts. 

2-Reading; as with any facet of writing, a good writer is one who is well-read. Writers should learn from those more experienced and use that same experience to bolster their craft. 

3-Time management; travel writers have a lot on their plates. Their work involves research, exploring and writing, that’s before getting into the editing phase as well. Thus, time management is key to help them handle their responsibilities. 

4-Creativity; it gives a unique style that sets them apart from the competition. Those who exercise creativity not only impress their editors but leave their readers with a lasting impression with them eager for more.  

5-Commitment; to guide one through the struggles of travel writing, especially dealing with rejection. That also involves staying informed and continuing to improve skills to keep skills sharp (3). 

Careers that involve travel writing

The travel writing field isn’t simply limited to the eponymous profession, it has a number of different types like travelogs and ghost-writing. People can also start their own travel articles and blogs, write guidebooks and manage social media for companies. Photography is another such possible profession, as travel photos can be sold to a number of publications and brands (4)(5). 

Other examples include translations, for translators can work in a variety of situations. But they also need context and good knowledge of the language and culture they’re translating to, they can serve as interpreters as well. Travel consultants are hired by agencies for their experience, allowing them to advise people on vacation planning and knowing what the dos and don'ts of traveling. 

There’s more to the field of travel writing than meets the eye. Even those with a passion for traveling but lacking an interest in writing can find something for themselves there. One shouldn’t take it at face value and remember travel writing for what it really is, a reminder of what the world has to offer and the myriad possibilities it holds.