So You Want to Write a Travel Blog? A Guide

So you do want to write a travel blog? Do not worry, it is not as hard as it seems. There are a few things, however, that you should keep in mind while creating, writing, and keeping up your blog. Here is a helpful guide to get you started.

While writing a travel blog helps to keep your family and friends updated, it also allows you to keep track of your travels. Creating and running a travel blog is simple, but does take some work before you leave on your trip.

Platforms

There are several platforms you can use and it all really depends on what type of blog you want.

If you are looking to have an old fashion blog, try using google's blogger or WordPress. Google's Blogger is easy if you already have a gmail address because you do not need to create a new account. The platform is simplistic but allows basic personalization. WordPress is better if you are very new to blogging because the platform is relatively easy to use. It also allows you to run a professional looking blog with little effort.

If you are looking at doing a non-traditional blog, try using Tumblr, Instagram, or even Twitter. These platforms make blogs unique and less conventional. Tumblr is great because it supports videos, music, pictures and more. It also is easy to use on the go and you can queue posts.

Instagram is useful if you are looking to do more of a "plog," or a picture-blog. You can use filters and even tag people that you meet while traveling. Twitter is handy if you want to constantly update people. Although your posts are limited to 140 characters, Twitter allows users to update their followers with short stories and pictures with ease.

Creating Your Blog

Once you have chosen a platform, you will need a name and theme to your blog. Yes, you can use your name and say "Ty's Blog," but why not be more original. Try using alliterations or if you are traveling somewhere for a long time, use the country's name in the title. You want a name that is clever so that people can remember it. Don't afraid to be goofy, sometimes people need a little laugh.

As far as themes go, you will want to avoid seeming like a hot mess on your blog. You do not want to go from posting videos of places to writing 1,000 word stories. People may be confused and may worry about your state of mind. Try to stick with a theme or a process of blog posting. This will also help you if you run out of ideas or can not think of anything to post because you will have something to fall back on.

Start Posting

After you have a theme and title, it is time to start posting. A good trick is keeping a schedule for your posts. For instance, will you post every day, every citiy, or in every country? It is all up to you. If you are traveling to somewhere like Africa or a location where there is little wifi, make sure you take this into consideration for posting.

Updating Your Blog

Also, think about how you are going to post once you leave home. Will you use your cell phone, travel computer or a tablet? You will want to make sure that the platform you choose is user friendly on the go. For example if you plan on Instagramming, will you take the pictures on your iPhone or upload it from your Canon? These are the things to think about before you go, so that you know you will be prepared.

So what now? Well, enjoy what you worked so hard to create. Write from the heart, take pictures of the beautiful scenery, and enjoy the funny comments that your readers make. Make sure to share your blog with your family before you go so that they know where to find updates. But remember, it is okay if you are the only reader of your blog. It happens.