For years, a persistent myth has circulated in the writing world: Travel Magazines no longer pay writers fairly, or even at all. This idea can be discouraging for aspiring travel writers eager to break into the industry. However, while the media landscape has undoubtedly shifted, the notion that travel magazines don’t pay is far from the whole story. Many of us are still making a living crafting compelling travel narratives for magazines.
It’s true that the publishing industry has faced significant changes. Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed magazine closures, staff restructuring, and relocations. Many talented professionals have been affected by these shifts, and some publishing houses have even shut down entirely. We’ve certainly navigated a challenging period for print media. But it’s crucial to recognize that the industry has adapted and evolved.
Good businesses, including publications, are resilient. They streamline operations, pivot their strategies, and discover innovative paths forward in evolving environments. This is precisely what many travel magazines have done to thrive in the modern media landscape.
Even established institutions like The New York Times have embraced content marketing, recognizing the need to cultivate stronger relationships with advertisers. As content increasingly migrates online and print editions become leaner, new opportunities are emerging for freelance writers. Magazines are often more willing to test out new freelancers with smaller, lower-risk assignments, making it easier to get your foot in the door.
With magazine staffs reduced, many experienced and skilled editors and writers have transitioned to freelance careers. This shift means that travel magazines now rely more than ever on a network of freelancers to produce content that was previously handled in-house. As magazines strive to do more with leaner teams, freelance travel writers are presented with a significant opportunity to contribute.
A person sitting at a table with a laptop and notebooks, seemingly working on writing, with a cup of coffee and a magazine visible, representing the work of a travel writer.
But the crucial question remains: is there actual pay in travel magazines? Is it worth striving to be on an editor’s “good list” if financial compensation isn’t viable? Especially when other avenues, like writing for travel companies, might seem more lucrative in the short term.
The Reality of Travel Writing Pay in Magazines Today
Let’s delve into the financial aspect of travel writing for magazines. While specific rates vary based on the publication, article type, and writer’s experience, it’s important to dispel the myth of universally low or nonexistent pay.
It’s often challenging to ascertain exact pay rates upfront. Magazines may offer varied rates based on a writer’s portfolio or assign different pay scales depending on where the article is positioned within the publication. However, my experience has shown that when you pursue a story you’re passionate about, regardless of the initially perceived pay, the offered rate often pleasantly surprises you.
Consider a niche travel magazine published by a large regional media company. Despite its niche focus, this magazine enjoys newsstand distribution, even in major bookstores. For a recurring, well-structured section piece I wrote for them, I received $1000, equating to approximately $1 per word, plus an additional $1000 for accompanying photography.
While it’s unwise to assume a blanket $1-per-word rate for all newsstand magazines, publications from larger media groups often operate with healthier budgets and pay scales.
The same principle often applies to newspapers. Major newspapers that still maintain dedicated travel sections frequently offer respectable rates, typically ranging from $0.50 to $1 per word, depending on the section and prominence of the piece. Furthermore, some newspapers provide additional compensation for online publication, covering either text alone or both text and accompanying images.
On the smaller publishing end, I recall a period when I was actively seeking new opportunities, including trade magazines in specific sectors. An editor from a prominent trade publication responded to my outreach, requesting article ideas. I consulted a colleague within a writers’ group who had previously collaborated with this magazine to gauge potential pay.
A presentation slide titled "Freelance Freedom Formula" with key points like "Multiple Income Streams," "Work from Anywhere," "Set Your Own Schedule," and "Be Your Own Boss," illustrating the benefits of freelancing in travel writing.
Her feedback, paraphrased, indicated they paid $800 for a 1500-word feature with a couple of interviews, which she considered “not a great rate.” Whether that rate is deemed low depends on individual financial needs and how you calculate your earnings – per piece or hourly. For perspective, a story of that nature might take me around four to five hours to complete.
Ultimately, while “enough” is subjective and varies from writer to writer, the assertion that travel writing pay is limited to paltry online rates or under $500 for print is inaccurate. Travel magazines and newspapers demonstrably still pay for quality travel content. Opportunities exist to earn a meaningful income crafting compelling travel stories for established publications.
