If you’ve ever wondered if making money as a travel creator is as simple as snapping a few pretty pictures and posting them on Instagram, it might seem this way, but it’s not exactly that easy.
The journey of content creation, especially in the travel niche, is multifaceted and unique to each creator.
In this episode of the Everyday Badassery Podcast “Creator Series“, I chat with Danni and Fede, the authentic and inspiring couple behind Scratchyourmapa, to discuss their journey and share insights on how to monetize as a travel creator.
Don’t forget to check out their e-book which breaks down exactly how to travel, create and monetize!
Key Takeaways from Danni and Fede’s Journey
1. There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Path to Success
Danni and Fede’s journey into content creation began on cruise ships, evolved during a six-week trip to South America, and solidified during the pandemic when they decided to turn their passion into a full-time endeavor.
One of the most crucial takeaways from their story is that there isn’t just one way to make money as a travel creator. Whether through Instagram, blogging, digital products, or collaborations, the path you choose can and should be unique to you.
2. Content Evolution is Key
Both Danni and Fede, and myself, can attest to the fact that your content will evolve over time.
When they started, they wrote multiple travel guides daily, each of which has gone through numerous updates and revisions.
My early YouTube videos? Let’s just say they’re a bit cringe-worthy now, but they’re a testament to progress.
The key is to start, take action, and continuously refine your work.
3. The Power of User Experience Over Immediate Monetization
One common misconception is that ad revenue is the most lucrative way to make money as a content creator.
However, as we discussed, ad revenue often equates to pennies on the dollar unless you have substantial traffic. Danni and Fede made the conscious decision to prioritize user experience over ad revenue by turning off their ads to ensure their content remained accessible and enjoyable. This long-term thinking is essential for building trust and a loyal audience.
Monetize your Travel Content with Travelpayouts
The challenge for all creators is to build “know, like and trust” with their following. In other words, getting found (and being “known”), showing up authentically as your true self so your audience “likes” you, and later, over time, a relationship of trust is built.
Once that trust is built, a powerful way to monetize your content as a travel creator is through affiliate revenue. As your audience looks to your advice on how to book their own travel (where to stay, what tours to book, what car rentals you used, etc) – it’s an opportunity for you to receive a share of the revenue of these booked items.
This is where Travelpayouts comes in…
Don’t miss this opportunity with Travelpayouts
Travelpayouts is a travel affiliates platform that aggregates hotels, tours, car rental and more and enables the creator to join programs, create affiliate links to share with their audience and track their performance all in one place
Get a $25 bonus when you sign up by using code LOZADA
4. Diversify Your Income Streams
Both Scratchyourmapa and I have found success through multiple income streams. From affiliate marketing, digital products like travel guides and courses, to brand partnerships and collaborations with tourism boards, diversifying your revenue sources is key.
This approach not only increases your income potential but also makes your business more resilient to changes in any one platform or income source.
5. Engagement and Authenticity Matter More Than Ever
Growing your audience on platforms like Instagram isn’t just about posting frequently; it’s about genuine engagement.
Danni and Fede emphasize the importance of building relationships with your followers and other creators.
Authentic engagement not only helps grow your audience but also creates a community around your content. In a world where algorithms reward meaningful interactions, this can be more powerful than any hashtag strategy.
6. Know When to Say No
As a creator, it’s tempting to say yes to every opportunity, especially when you’re starting.
However, Danni and Fede remind us that not every collaboration is worth your time. It’s important to stay true to your brand and only take on projects that align with your values and resonate with your audience.
This ensures that you maintain your authenticity and avoid burnout.
Connect with ScratchYourMapa!
Connect with Danni and Fede and don’t forget about their e-book filled with tips to start traveling and creating!
Bottom Line
- Start Now, Evolve Later: Your content doesn’t need to be perfect from the start. Begin your journey and improve as you go.
- Diversify Your Income: Don’t rely solely on ad revenue; explore other avenues like affiliate marketing, digital products, and brand partnerships.
- Engage Authentically: Building genuine connections with your audience and other creators is key to long-term success.
- Stay True to Your Brand: Only take on collaborations and projects that align with your values and serve your audience.
Becoming a successful travel creator takes time, persistence, and a willingness to adapt. Find Danni and Fede’s ebook, a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to start or grow their journey as a content creator by clicking here. It covers everything from building your brand, creating content, and establishing a sustainable business model.
Remember, there’s no single right way to do this. Your journey will be unique, and that’s what makes it valuable. Stay true to yourself, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take the leap.
About the podcast
Everyday Badassery is a travel podcast of inspirational stories to help you be just 1% more badass than you were yesterday. This episode is part of the creator series, where you’ll find helpful tips and interviews with creators that will help you to be just 1% more badass as a travel creator or small business.
Find the creator series starting with the intro at episode 80.