Starting a travel blog is an exciting journey, but there's a lot to take in. You need to figure out how to register a domain, install WordPress, and create awesome content. Once you've got the basics down, the real fun begins – it’s time to monetize your travel blog.
You’re going to love this part!
Whether you're just starting out or you've been sharing your adventures for a while, there are many ways to make money with your travel blog. These methods can help you turn your passion into a full-time gig. Let’s dive into each one!
Why You Can Trust Our Travel Blog Monetization Guide
Lasso is installed on over 8,000 websites, including many travel blogs.
Our team has built multiple 7-figure blogs in a wide range of niches.
We have hands-on experience working with founders to grow and monetize their travel blogs.
1. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is the best monetization method for travel bloggers because it hits the sweet spot between time investment and earning potential.
Affiliate marketing is a form of advertising where a publisher (the site owner) links to a product in their content and earns a commission from the advertiser (the affiliate program) if readers click on that link and make a purchase.
TIP: With all monetization methods, the rule of thumb is the easier it is to accomplish, the less money you can make, and vice versa.
Also, since you can add links to your existing content, it’s the perfect method for beginners. You’ve already written content, so you’ve already done the hard part.
How to Start Affiliate Marketing for Travel Bloggers
When it comes to travel blogging, there are tons of affiliate products you can recommend. Here's a list of different types to consider:
- Travel Insurance: Essential for any traveler, it covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost baggage.
- Flight Search Engines: Sites that help users find the best deals on flights, often with affiliate programs.
- Hotel Booking Platforms: Websites that offer a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury options.
- Travel Gear: Backpacks, luggage, and travel accessories that increase comfort and convenience while traveling.
- Tours and Activities: Local experiences, guided tours, and unique activities that enhance the travel adventure.
- Credit Card Offers: Cards that reward travelers with points or miles, perfect for travel enthusiasts.
- Travel Guides and Maps: Digital or physical guides that help navigate new destinations easily.
- Travel Membership Programs: Clubs or services offering discounts on various travel-related purchases.
These options can really resonate with your audience. Here are some reasons why:
- High Demand: Everyone travels, so these products target a broad audience.
- Trust Factor: Recommended products create credibility and can enhance your reputation.
- Recurring Revenue: Some programs offer commissions on repeat purchases, ensuring ongoing income.
- Diverse Options: Different products cater to various types of travelers, from backpackers to luxury seekers.
Once you’ve identified which products will solve problems for your readers, you need to sign up for their affiliate programs.
You should start by joining the Amazon Associates affiliate program.
Most physical products in the travel niche will be available on Amazon, and the conversion rate on Amazon is insane.
Yes, Amazon’s commission rates are rough, and they only offer a 24-hour cookie duration, but the conversion rate makes up for it. Plus, you’re nearly guaranteed to get accepted into their program.
For products that aren’t available on Amazon, just Google “[Product] affiliate program,” and you’ll find their program’s signup page.
To save you some time, here are a few of the best affiliate networks for travel bloggers:
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Commission Rate: 5% Per Sale
Cookie Duration: 30 Days
REI has been sharing its passion for the outdoors since 1938. It has massive brand recognition on its side and offers a wide variety of products.
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Commission Rate: 25% - 40% Per Sale
Cookie Duration: N/A
First started in 1996, Booking.com is one of the largest eCommerce travel companies in the world. As an affiliate member, you can make up to 40% commission.
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Commission Rate: 15% or $5 - $55 Per Sale
Cookie Duration: 1 Year
Travel Insurance Master is an easy way to find your recommended travel insurance plan from multiple leading providers all in one place!
TIP: We maintain a database of the best affiliate programs. Click here to see the best travel affiliate programs.
Once you’ve been approved for the product’s affiliate program, the program will give you your affiliate link, and you can start inserting it into your content.
How To Monetize A Travel Blog With Affiliate Marketing
To add your link to your content, go to your post editor, highlight the relevant text, and insert the link.
Here are a few best practices for adding affiliate links to your WordPress blog:
- Add links where it’s helpful. Adding too many links to your blog posts is just like adding too many ads; it’s annoying. Add links to product titles, images, CTA buttons, and the first time you mention a product. That’s plenty.
- Disclose your links. Every blog post with affiliate links should have a disclaimer at the beginning, and every CTA or product image should also.
- Use direct sales language. When you are writing your call to action, be direct. It’s not rude to say, “Check the price” or “Buy this product today.” Being too passive makes you look unconfident.
Or, take it a step further by creating product displays.
You Can Double Your Affiliate Sales With Lasso Displays
You can create displays manually using the post editor to add links to images and buttons.
However, it can be time-consuming to create these displays and keep them updated if you’re doing it all by hand.
Luckily, monetizing your blog with affiliate links is simplified when you’re using a tool like Lasso.
Lasso makes it super easy to add links and product displays to your posts. You can add product displays to posts right from the post editor; no coding is required. It’s as simple as clicking your mouse three times.
You can also automatically import product info from retailers like Amazon. Just paste the link into the Lasso dashboard, and Lasso will populate the display with the product title, image, and price.
With all of this, remember to follow the guidelines in the affiliate program’s terms and conditions. Amazon, in particular, is pretty stringent.
But everything Lasso does is compliant with Amazon Associates’ TOS, so you never have to worry about being booted from the program.
That’s just scratching the surface of what Lasso can do to help you monetize your travel blog. If you’re ready to start making a serious affiliate income from your travel site, sign up for Lasso today.
A WordPress plugin that lets you add, manage, and display your affiliate links from any program, including Amazon. Increase conversions. Find new affiliate link opportunities. Earn more revenue! Less than 5 minutes to set up.
Affiliate Marketing Pros and Cons for Travel Bloggers
Affiliate marketing can be a goldmine for travel bloggers. The idea is simple: promote products or services you love and earn a commission for every sale made through your referral links. This can be highly lucrative, especially in the travel niche where audiences are always looking for recommendations on gear, booking platforms, and experiences.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. One major downside is the time and effort required to build a substantial income. You’ll need a decent amount of traffic and an engaged audience who trusts your opinions. If your site is new or has low traffic, it might take a while to see real results.
Additionally, some travel bloggers feel that affiliate marketing can compromise their authenticity. Readers might start questioning whether your recommendations are genuine or just a way to make a quick buck. It’s crucial to maintain transparency and only promote products that you truly believe in to keep your audience’s trust intact.
Finally, keep in mind that commission rates and terms can vary widely among affiliate programs. Some might offer generous payouts, while others are less rewarding. It’s important to research and join programs that align well with your content and audience interests for the best outcomes.
2. Display Ads
The second best way to monetize your travel blog is with display ads. Ads are the internet's favorite monetization method, but they have severe drawbacks.
How to Monetize a Travel Blog With Display Ads
Monetizing a travel blog with display ads couldn’t be easier.
First, choose an ad network to join. Networks have traffic requirements, so here are the best ad networks to join based on your site’s page views:
- 100,000+ Visitors per month - Raptive
- 50,000+ Sessions per month - Mediavine
- < 50,000+ Visitors per month - Ezoic
NOTE: WordPress is an open-source software found on WordPress.org. WordPress.com is a premium blogging platform, but you never need to pay to install WordPress on your website, even if it’s self-hosted.
Once you’re accepted to an ad network, follow their instructions to integrate their ads into your site. They will have documentation for every type of content management service (WordPress, Joomla, Ghost, etc.).
If your chosen ad network has a dedicated accounts manager, they will guide you through getting their ads on your site.
And… that’s it. Let the ads run and wait for your deposits to hit your account.
TIP: Optimize your display ads for user experience by using your chosen network’s software settings or talking to your account manager. Keep the ads in the sidebar and footer whenever possible.
You’ll make a lot of money in the long run if you put your readers ahead of quick profit.
Display Ad Pros And Cons For Travel Bloggers
Display ads can be a helpful revenue source for travel bloggers, but they come with their ups and downs. On the plus side, they're pretty easy to set up. Once you join an ad network, like Google AdSense, you can get ads on your site without much hassle. This means you can start earning while you focus on creating content that inspires travelers.
Another pro is that display ads are often performance-based. This means you can potentially earn more as your traffic grows. If your blog gains traction, your income from these ads can increase significantly. Additionally, these ads can be targeted to your audience, which may lead to higher click-through rates and more revenue.
3. Digital Products
Selling your own digital products is a great way to increase your earnings per visitor in the travel niche.
A digital product is anything you can sell on your travel blog that the customer will receive via download.
Here’s a quick list of digital products you can sell on your travel blog:
- Travel E-Books: Share your travel tips, itineraries, and experiences in easily digestible e-books.
- Photography Presets: Sell filters for editing travel photos, perfect for those wanting to enhance their Instagram game.
- Printable Travel Checklists: Offer downloadable checklists for packing, trip planning, or destination guides.
- Online Courses: Teach others how to travel smart, budget effectively, or even how to start their own travel blog.
- Subscription Newsletters: Provide exclusive content, tips, and deals for members willing to pay a small fee.
A lot of people search for simple checklists and guides related to different topics. They’d happily pay you for them.
Pros and Cons of Selling Digital Products for Travel Bloggers
Selling digital products as a travel blogger has its ups and downs. On the positive side, digital products like e-books, travel guides, or online courses can provide a steady income stream without the need for inventory or shipping. Once created, these products can be sold repeatedly, allowing you to earn money while you sleep. Plus, they cater to your audience's needs and can help establish you as an authority in your niche.
However, there are challenges to consider. Creating high-quality digital products takes time and effort. You’ll need to invest in marketing and promotion to reach your audience effectively. If your product doesn’t resonate with them, it could end up being a flop. Additionally, keeping your content updated can be a hassle, especially in a fast-changing industry like travel.
Another downside is competition. The online marketplace is saturated with digital products, making it harder to stand out. You’ll have to find your unique selling proposition to attract customers. Pricing your product can also be tricky; you don’t want to undervalue your work, but you also need to stay competitive.
Ultimately, selling digital products can be rewarding if you play your cards right. Balancing the pros and cons is key for success in this venture.
How To Monetize a Travel Blog By Selling Digital Products
The first thing to do is create your digital product.
Look at which content your audience interacts with the most, and brainstorm digital products to help serve their search intent.
That’s what I did when I created our Ultimate Blogging Guide:
Get Your FREE 20-Page Guide To Making $1000/Day From Your Niche Blog
Then, create the product using whatever tools are at your disposal. For example, use Microsoft Word to create an ebook PDF, or Google Sheets to create interactive spreadsheets and checklists.
Next, you have to figure out how to distribute your product. The easiest way to distribute PDFs is by uploading them to your WordPress media library. Then you can give customers the link, and they can download the PDF from there.
Lastly, you’ll have to set up payment processing and order fulfillment. A plugin like Woocommerce can automate most of this, but you’ll have to tie it to a processor like Stripe or PayPal.
Woocommerce can even connect to an email tool like ConvertKit, so as soon as your customer finishes their checkout, they’ll get an email with a link to their download.
TIP: You can still use Lasso to get more clicks to your digital products. Just create a Lasso display with the link pointing to your product’s sales page.
Barring any issues, you won’t have to do anything but watch your bank account grow.
4. Email Newsletter
One effective way to monetize a travel blog is by creating an email newsletter. This method allows you to build a loyal audience and engage with your readers on a more personal level. Let's explore how to monetize a travel blog with an email newsletter and the pros and cons of email marketing for travel bloggers.
How to Monetize a Travel Blog with an Email Newsletter
Email newsletters are a powerful tool for travel bloggers looking to build a strong connection with their audience. They offer a direct way to communicate with subscribers, who are often highly engaged. By offering value through curated content, travel tips, or exclusive deals, you not only strengthen your brand but also create numerous opportunities for monetization.
To start monetizing through an email newsletter, first, build a solid subscriber list. Use sign-up forms strategically placed on your blog, offer free resources like travel itineraries, or host giveaways to encourage sign-ups. The bigger your list, the more you can earn. Once you’ve got a good number of subscribers, you can start promoting affiliate products or services that fit your audience's interests. For example, consider recommending travel gear, accommodation, or tours through affiliate links. When your audience makes a purchase using your link, you earn a commission.
Another effective strategy is to use your newsletter to promote your own products, such as travel guides, e-books, or photography prints. Your readers already trust your expertise, so why not tap into that? Create valuable products that align with your travels and the insights you’ve shared over time. Use your emails to present these products and offer exclusive discounts or bonuses to your subscribers. This not only encourages sales but also fosters a sense of community and loyalty with your audience.
Finally, consider partnerships with brands for sponsored content in your newsletters. Travel-related brands are often looking for ways to reach enthusiastic travelers. By partnering with them, you can feature their products in your newsletters, providing your subscribers with tested recommendations while getting paid for the promotion. Just make sure that any sponsored content is relevant and adds value to your readers, keeping your brand integrity intact.
Pros and Cons of Email Marketing for Travel Bloggers
- Pros:
- Direct communication: Reach your audience without relying on algorithms.
- Community building: Foster a loyal following who is more likely to engage with your content.
- Potential for high ROI: With a targeted list, you can see better returns on promotions.
- Diverse monetization options: Promote affiliate products, your own goods, and collaborations with brands.
- Cons:
- Time-consuming: Building and curating a newsletter takes consistent effort.
- Compliance requirements: Adhering to email marketing laws (like GDPR) can be complex.
- Potential for unsubscribes: If content is not engaging, you risk losing subscribers.
- Initial learning curve: Understanding email marketing tools can take time.
5. Consulting and Coaching Services
Consulting or coaching is exchanging your expertise and time for a fee. Your customers need an expert, and you’ve proven yourself to be that expert.
As you become an authority in the industry, people will reach out to you with questions about topics they consider you an expert in.
Now, you don’t have to charge for being helpful, but you should place a dollar value on your time.
As a travel blogger, you extensive knowledge of the industry. If a reader reaches out to you asking for help, you should get paid for that effort.
How To Monetize A Travel Blog With Consulting Services
Monetizing a travel blog with consulting services is similar to selling sponsored posts.
Put a “Coaching” option in your nav bar that goes to a landing page outlining your consulting services and your hourly rate. This will help head off some of the people looking for free advice.
TIP: Again, you can use Lasso to drive more clicks to your coaching pages. Just create a Display with a link to your sales page, and insert it into blog posts.
Then, wait for requests to come in, evaluate them, and propose your offer. If the customer accepts, send them an invoice using PayPal or another payment processor, and schedule the call.
Pros and Cons of Selling Consulting Services for Travel Bloggers
When it comes to selling consulting services, travel bloggers can tap into a unique market. The flexibility it offers is a major plus. You can easily manage your time, working from anywhere in the world. This allows you to maintain your travel lifestyle while still making money.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The competition is stiff. Many bloggers are diving into this space, making it tricky to stand out. You need a clear niche and a solid marketing plan to attract clients.
On the financial side, consulting can be lucrative. Some bloggers charge high rates, showcasing their expertise on travel strategies or social media growth. But initial income might be inconsistent as you build your reputation and client base.
Lastly, selling consulting services is an outlet to help others. You get to share your experiences and insights, which can be rewarding. But remember, it also requires strong communication skills and the ability to handle client expectations effectively.
Supercharge your earnings with Lasso. Create no-code product Displays and Tables that convert, find and fix broken links, and gain valuable business insights with revenue analytics.
Learn MoreTravel Blog Monetization FAQs
What Is The Best Way To Make Money From Travel Blogging?
If you want to build a successful travel blog, then affiliate marketing is the best way to monetize it. It’s the least intrusive way to make a lot of money from your site without much extra effort.
Can I Make A Full-Time Income From Travel Blogging?
Absolutely! Some travel blogs, like Nomadic Matt and The Blonde Abroad get hundreds of thousands of monthly visitors. That’s enough for a full-time income for a small team of people.
How Do I Start a Travel Blog?
Learning how to start a travel blog is the first best way to use your expertise to start an online business.
You need to register a domain, install WordPress, and publish great content. It's a lot of work, but totally worth it!
How Do Travel Bloggers Get Paid?
Most travel bloggers make money through affiliate commissions and advertising fees. Both of these monetization methods pay out one or two months after the fees have been generated.
Some travel bloggers also sell sponsored posts, consulting services, or their own products. In these cases, a payment processor like PayPal or Stripe is necessary.
Is Travel Blogging Easy?
Nothing worth doing is truly easy, but that doesn’t mean travel blogging isn’t fun.
As a travel blogger, you’ll get to go places, try new things, and meet new people. And it will be part of your business! What could be cooler than that?
Is It Worth Starting A Travel Blog?
It’s absolutely worth it to start a travel blog. Not only can you make a living from it, but you can also build a community and control the conversation.
Once you’re an established authority, people in travel-related industries will take you seriously.
Final Thoughts on Monetizing a Travel Blog
So there you have it! You now know all the different ways to monetize your travel blog.
Before you dive in, here's a bonus tip: use multiple methods!
Diversifying your income is key to securing your business's future.
If you rely on affiliate offers, display ads, and sell your own products, you won't be thrown off if one source dries up.
With this multi-faceted approach, along with hard work and smart planning, you’re well on your way to earning what your travel blog truly deserves!
Why You Should Trust Our Travel Blogging Content
You may be thinking, "that's all great, but what does Lasso know about travel blogging?"
Quite a lot, actually.
Here's why you can trust our process for building a successful travel blog:
We've Built Wildly Successful Blogs
Lasso is built for affiliate marketers, by affiliate marketers. We're not gurus; we've walked the walk.
Our team members have built multiple blogs from the ground up, some of them earning over seven figures in revenue.
We put that experience into every guide we write, so you can trust we're giving you a process that works.
We Talk To Travel Bloggers Every Day
Lasso's WordPress plugin is installed on over 8,000 websites, including a lot of travel blogs.
Our team supports those bloggers every day as they create awesome content and earn lots of money.
These communications give us a bird's-eye view of what's new in the travel industry. We take that information and use it to keep these guides as up-to-date and accurate as possible.
We're Super Nerds
We've put a lot of company focus into learning everything we can about blogging, affiliate marketing, SEO, and anything to do with online entrepreneurship.
We attend conferences, collect high-level contacts, read tons of books, and distill all of that information into our content. We pass information onto you that was previously only available to industry insiders.
