Bree’s Ink Trails

Tag: Budget

  • How to Make Traveling Your Actual Job (and Get Paid for It)

    How to Make Traveling Your Actual Job (and Get Paid for It)

    Ever caught yourself scrolling through Instagram, staring at someone’s beachside breakfast or mountain-top hot tub and thinking, “Okay but how do I get that job?”

    Same.
    But what if I told you that you actually can make travel part of your career—without selling your soul or becoming the next Kardashian?

    There are real, down-to-earth people getting paid to travel. And no, they’re not all supermodels or YouTube-famous. Let’s talk about how you can be one of them.

    1. Companies That Will Literally Pay You to Travel

    Yes, these exist. And no, you don’t need a million followers.

    Here are some companies that actually hire people to travel for work—flights, lodging, and sometimes even meals included:

    ✈️ Remote Year

    Remote Year hires community leaders and content creators to travel with their digital nomad groups. You basically get paid to help people have a good time in beautiful places. Not mad at it.

    🌍 Worldpackers

    Trade your skills (photography, writing, social media, etc.) for free stays and unique experiences around the world. Perfect for aspiring travelers who want to build a portfolio while seeing the world on a budget.

    🏨 Selina

    Selina runs gorgeous hostels and boutique hotels around the globe—and they often hire creative nomads for content creation, event planning, or community management. You get to stay for free and live that #hostellife with a bit of luxury.

    📸 Travel + Leisure / Matador Network / The Outbound Collective

    These platforms are always on the lookout for writers, photographers, and storytellers. Once you build your portfolio, pitching travel stories to these outlets can get you paid trips—especially if you have a unique angle.

    2. Aspiring Influencers: Here’s How to Start Traveling for Reviews

    If you want to dip your toes into the “travel influencer” space—without waiting until you’re Insta-famous—there are ways to start now.

    🧳 Sign up for influencer networks.

    These sites connect micro-influencers with travel brands, hotels, and experiences looking for exposure:

    • TRAVELSCOUTS – Matches travel creators with hotels and resorts in exchange for content.
    • The Room – A newer platform that connects influencers with hotels around the world looking for honest reviews and exposure.
    • Influence.co – A solid place to find collabs with travel brands (and build your media kit while you’re at it).

    You don’t need 100K followers—engagement, niche, and good content matter more. If your vibe is authentic, people notice.

    3. Start Small, Then Go Big

    Here’s the truth: Most travel careers don’t start with first-class flights and champagne in Bali. But they do start with consistent storytelling, good photos, and putting yourself out there.

    Try this:

    • Review a local boutique hotel or Airbnb and post it like you would a sponsored gig.
    • Reach out to small hotels or bed & breakfasts offering to trade content for a stay.
    • Document your trips in a way that shows value—“3 hidden gems in Charleston,” “How to travel solo as a woman and actually enjoy it,” etc.

    Brands care about influence, not just followers. Influence is: can you make someone feel something? Can you make them want to go, eat, see, or book?

    Bonus: Jobs You Can Do While Traveling

    Want steady income and the freedom to roam? Consider jobs that don’t tie you down:

    • Virtual Assistant (work from anywhere with Wi-Fi)
    • Online Tutor or Coach
    • Freelance Writer / Social Media Manager
    • Travel Nurse / Medical Professional (hello, high-paying + free travel gigs)
    • Event Coordinator for destination retreats

    Mix one of these with a side of hotel reviews and travel collabs? You’ve got a recipe for a lifestyle that looks like a Pinterest board.

    Final Word: It’s More Possible Than You Think

    People are making travel their job every single day. They’re not all celebrities. They’re teachers turned bloggers, artists with a camera, moms with a knack for planning, and everyday people with a serious case of wanderlust and a Wi-Fi connection.

    If you’re serious about seeing the world and building a career around it—start now. Don’t wait for permission. Don’t wait until you “have a better camera” or “lose ten pounds” or “hit 10K followers.”

    Go stay somewhere cute. Document it. Share what you loved. Reach out to brands. Apply for that role. Make travel part of your story.

    Because why not you?

    Want a starter list of travel content prompts, influencer pitch templates, or a list of places to apply for paid travel gigs? Drop a comment or DM me—I’ve got you. 💼✈️🌴

  • DIY Home Décor: Transform Your Space on a Budget

    DIY Home Décor: Transform Your Space on a Budget

    Have you ever looked around your living space and thought it could use a little sprucing up? You’re not alone! The good news is that you don’t need a hefty budget to give your home a fresh and inviting makeover. In this DIY home décor guide, we’ll take you through some creative and affordable home improvement projects. Get ready to roll up your sleeves, unleash your inner decorator, and transform your space without breaking the bank. Let’s dive in!

    1. Painted Accent Wall

    Materials Needed:

    • Painter’s tape
    • Paint of your choice
    • Paintbrushes or rollers
    • Drop cloths

    Steps:

    1. Clean the wall and remove any imperfections.
    2. Apply painter’s tape to protect adjacent surfaces.
    3. Paint your chosen color onto the wall, starting with a primer if necessary.
    4. Let it dry, and add a second coat if needed.

    Budget Tip: Look for discounted or clearance paint at home improvement stores for extra savings.

    2. DIY Wall Art

    Materials Needed:

    • Canvas or wood panel
    • Acrylic paints or other art supplies
    • Brushes
    • Creativity!

    Steps:

    1. Sketch your design on the canvas or wood panel.
    2. Paint your masterpiece.
    3. Let it dry, and hang it up to showcase your artistic flair.

    Budget Tip: Use leftover paint from other projects and inexpensive art supplies for a cost-effective project.

    3. Upcycled Furniture

    Materials Needed:

    • Sandpaper
    • Paint or wood finish
    • New hardware (optional)

    Steps:

    1. Sand the furniture to remove any rough patches or old finish.
    2. Apply a fresh coat of paint or wood finish.
    3. Replace hardware or knobs for an added touch of style.

    Budget Tip: Scout for second-hand furniture at thrift stores or online marketplaces for a low-cost starting point.

    4. Custom Shelving

    Materials Needed:

    • Wooden boards
    • L-brackets
    • Screws
    • Drill
    • Stain or paint

    Steps:

    1. Measure and cut wooden boards to your desired length.
    2. Stain or paint the boards to match your décor.
    3. Mount L-brackets on the wall, then attach the boards.

    Budget Tip: Use repurposed wood or reclaimed lumber for a rustic and cost-effective look.

    5. Decorative Throw Pillows

    Materials Needed:

    • Fabric of your choice
    • Sewing machine or needle and thread
    • Pillow stuffing

    Steps:

    1. Measure and cut two identical fabric pieces.
    2. Sew three sides together, leaving one side open.
    3. Turn the fabric inside out, stuff with pillow stuffing, and sew the final side shut.

    Budget Tip: Repurpose old fabric or use discount fabric remnants for affordable pillow covers.

    Transforming your living space on a budget is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding. With these step-by-step DIY home décor projects, you can infuse your personality into your surroundings without breaking the bank. Don’t be afraid to get creative and showcase your unique style. Your home is your canvas—paint it with your creativity and imagination!

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