One of the most common questions I get from people who want to travel is how to save money on travel so that it’s more affordable. So in this week-long series, we’ll be covering all parts of travel and how to save money so that you can travel more and spend less!
As bloggers, we spend a lot of time writing about our experiences. And travel bloggers in general, well, we write about our travel experiences. That includes everything from flights to hotels to activities and places in general. And a lot of time goes into planning posts, getting all the information correct, editing photos and the list goes on. So as a travel blogger, you actually have way more power than you think because you’re putting your opinions out there to thousands of people. So if you’re a blogger, here is how to save money on travel that offer perks specifically for bloggers!
Email hotels when planning your trip.
Before I book any hotels myself for a destination, I make a short list of hotels I’m interested in and I send them an email. (I went over this in more detail in this post if you’re interested.) 9 times out of 10, hotels want to work with you and they will offer you complimentary stays or at media rates which can be drastically lower.
Media discounts.
As I mentioned above, many hotels will be willing to offer you a media discount to stay at the hotel and review it on your blog. I make sure to mention exactly what they’ll be getting in exchange for that media rate. For example, make sure you are clear on what you’ll be doing for them. I offer a review on my blog plus social media coverage on Instagram and Twitter while we are staying there. That way you’re covered with what you’re doing and the hotel is clear as well.
Work with travel brands or companies.
I’ve worked before with clothing companies that will send me an item or two of things like gloves or leggings, which then I feature in photos while we travel. Collaborations like that are great for both parties because you’re getting something for free and the brand is getting recognition when you write about it. Another way to do this, which I haven’t ventured into yet, is working with travel companies or tourist boards which will either pay you to review or a place or offer you free options while you’re in a destination.
Mention you’re a blogger.
No matter where I travel, at hotels that I pay for, I always reach out and mention I’m a blogger ahead of time. Most of the time, they’ll upgrade you or offer you some special things to get a better review, so it doesn’t hurt to reach out. This is also great for activities, send an email and just mention you’ll be visiting and would love to review their service. You’ll be shocked at how willing places are to work with you!
Annie says
Do you typically share your numbers, views per month, etc.? Or do you just shoot them an email sharing that you’re a blogger and would be happy to review? Very interested in this topic, thanks for posting!
Kayti Clayton says
Hey Annie,
I was reading some of her other posts and she actually talks about all of that here:
https://landofmarvels.com/lets-talk-blogging-how-to-introduce-yourself-to-brands/
It’s super helpful!
Casey says
I don’t share my numbers until they ask, which they hardly ever do. Most of the time, they look at my site and that’s enough for them. I talk more about it here: https://landofmarvels.com/lets-talk-blogging-how-to-introduce-yourself-to-brands/
Arianna says
Hey! great tips! And it works? I mean.. it´s incredible how bloggers are becoming the new “tripadvisor”! Great job =)
https://pandaonavespa.wordpress.com/
Casey says
Yes, it totally works! I often have at least half or all of our hotels complimentary or on a media rate for most of our trips in exchange for reviews and social media exposure!
Macy Volpe says
love this post! I just did a few of these things for trips we are taking over the next few months, and it has worked out really well! Now I need to get some blog business cards!
Casey says
Amazing! It’s so awesome to start working with companies!
Kaelene @ Unlocking Kiki says
Such great tips! I think the hardest part is just reaching out, but when you do it usually pays of.
Casey says
Totally! But once you get into the habit of it, it’s so great!
Rachel @ STCL says
Great tips! I was pretty successful in reaching out for my upcoming trip, fortunately! So excited for so many new partnerships!
Casey says
That’s so great!
Stephanie Rogers says
This is such a helpful post! I’ve never thought to offer social media coverage!! Awesome post, will definitely be using some of these tips in upcoming trips!
Adventures with Steph
Casey says
It’s so useful to companies and such a great thing to offer… try it out! 🙂
Emma - Fizzy Cola Travel Blog says
Great advice – I think it’s so important to remember there’s no harm in asking! Worst case scenario is you are in exactly the same position as you were anyway.
Emma
Fizzy Cola
Casey says
Totally! We’re not losing anything by asking and 90% of the time, brands will say yes to working with you!