Starting a Travel Blog That Pays

You’ve seen the photos — laptops on the beach, hashtags like #bloggerlife, dreamy captions that say, “Work doesn’t feel like work when you love what you do.” But how do travel bloggers actually get paid?

If you’re wondering whether blogging for income is still possible in 2025, the answer is yes. But it’s no longer just about dreamy Instagram shots or collecting stamps in your passport. A successful monetised travel blog is built like any other digital business: with intention, strategy, and consistency.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to start a digital nomad blog that not only showcases your adventures but also brings in real money. From choosing your niche to creating content and diversifying your income streams, you’ll find all the tools and insights you need to get started — the right way.

Why Blogging Still Works in 2025

Travel Blogs Aren’t Dead — They’ve Evolved

It’s true, the golden age of personal travel blogs may feel like a thing of the past. But modern blogging has shifted.

Today’s top travel blogs act more like niche media sites. They combine personal storytelling with valuable, well-researched content designed to help others plan trips, find gear, or navigate digital nomad life.

Why It’s Ideal for Digital Nomads

• You’re already travelling — why not document it with a purpose?
• Content is an asset — blog posts can earn for years after publishing.
• Low overhead — you can start with just a laptop and internet.
• Scalable — one blog post can lead to multiple income streams.

Whether you want a full-time career or a side hustle to cover extra expenses, blogging is a smart addition to your remote income streams.

Choose a Niche (and Stick to It)

The biggest mistake new bloggers make? Writing about everything. Niching down builds trust and attracts the right audience.

Niche Ideas That Work in 2025:

• Affordable (How to Find Affordable Housing While Traveling) travel for solo female travellers
• Van life or overland travel
• Remote work tips for digital nomads
• Eco-friendly and sustainable travel
• Adventure travel (e.g. hiking, diving, cycling)
• Expat life in a specific region (e.g. Southeast Asia or the Balkans)

Tip: Start with your own experience. What do people always ask you about? That’s your edge.

Pick a Name and Set Up Your Blog

Choosing a Blog Name

Make it:

• Memorable
• Easy to spell
• Relevant to your niche
• Available as a domain (.com is best)

Use tools like Namecheap or Instant Domain Search to check availability.

Setting Up the Website

Here’s a no-fluff breakdown:

1. Hosting: Use SiteGround or Bluehost for reliability.
2. Platform: WordPress.org (not .com) gives you full control.
3. Theme: Choose a mobile-responsive, clean theme (Astra, Kadence, or GeneratePress are great starters).
4. Basic Pages: About, Contact, Blog, Privacy Policy.

No need to hire a developer. You can have it live in one weekend.

Start Writing Valuable Content

What Should You Write About?

Mix personal stories with helpful guides. Think:

• Destination itineraries
• Cost breakdowns
• Travel gear reviews
• Visa tips
• Working remotely from [X country]
• “Day in the life” stories

Content That Drives Traffic:

• Listicles: “10 Best Cafés in Lisbon to Work From”
• How-to Guides: “How to Get a SIM Card in Vietnam”
• Comparisons: “Airbnb vs Hostels: Which Is Better for Nomads?”
• Long-form Reviews: “Honest Review: Working from Selina Medellín”

Use SEO tools like Ubersuggest, KeySearch, or Google’s free Keyword Planner to optimise each post.

Build an Audience (Without Needing Thousands of Followers)

Start an Email List Immediately

Offer something small and helpful — like a city guide or packing checklist — in exchange for email sign-ups. Use MailerLite or ConvertKit.

Why email matters: You own your list. Algorithms don’t control your reach here.

Use Social Media to Support, Not Lead

Pick one platform where your audience hangs out. For example:

• Instagram: Visual storytelling + Reels
• Pinterest: Great for evergreen blog traffic
• YouTube: Pair with blog content for dual income streams
• LinkedIn: Ideal if your blog leans towards remote work/lifestyle

Be consistent, but don’t burn yourself out trying to be everywhere.

Monetise Strategically

You don’t need a massive audience to start earning. You just need to create value for a specific group of readers.

1. Affiliate Marketing

Promote products or services you use and trust — and earn a commission.

• Amazon Associates
• Booking.com
• SafetyWing (travel insurance)
• Hostelworld, GetYourGuide, Skyscanner
• Software tools (e.g. VPNs, Grammarly, gear)

Example: A blog post on “Best Travel Backpacks for Nomads” can earn you recurring income through affiliate links.

2. Sponsored Posts or Brand Partnerships

Once your traffic grows, companies may pay to be featured on your site.

These could include:

• Gear brands
• Tour operators
• Local businesses

Always disclose sponsored content to keep trust (and stay legal).

3. Display Ads

With enough traffic, you can earn from ads on your blog.

• Google AdSense (start small)
• Mediavine or Raptive (better payout once you hit ~50,000 monthly views)

4. Digital Products

You can sell:

• Travel planning templates
• Country-specific guides
• Lightroom presets
• Ebooks (e.g. “Living in Bali on £800/Month”)

5. Freelancing or Coaching

Use your blog to promote your skills. For instance:

• Travel writing
• SEO Consulting
• Pinterest management
• Remote career coaching

A well-designed blog acts as your online portfolio.

Mistakes to Avoid

Writing Without a Plan

Random posts won’t work. Create a content calendar. Plan around keywords and reader needs.

Waiting to Monetise

You don’t need to “wait until you have traffic.” Set up affiliate links and email capture from day one.

Comparing Yourself to Full-Time Bloggers

You’re seeing their highlight reel, not the years of groundwork. Run your own race.

Ignoring SEO

Even basic optimisation can boost your blog traffic fast. Learn how to write SEO-friendly headlines, meta descriptions, and internal links.

Conclusion: Your Travel Blog Can Be More Than a Hobby

Blogging isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme. But it is a proven, creative way to earn on the move, share your perspective, and build a business that reflects your freedom-loving lifestyle. Today’s top travel blogs act more like niche media sites. They combine personal storytelling with valuable, well-researched content designed to help others plan trips, find gear, or navigate digital nomad life.

By focusing on helpful content, clear monetisation paths, and a real connection with your audience, you can build a monetised travel blog that funds your adventures, opens doors, and grows with you.