Turning Vacations into Paycations: Annabel Smit's Approach to Traveling Smart
I'm back! And it's good to be back. I wrote an article all those years ago about my modeling experience, offering a very honest and open take on the fashion and modeling industry. It's been 6 years now, and as I wrote at the end of my last article, "So my message to the people who made it to the end of this post is: go travel, go explore, step out of your comfort zone, try out new things, whatever they may be, as long as they mean something to you, it will be worth it. Go gain some life experience, put yourself out there! There's nothing wrong with being vulnerable, feeling alone, and not knowing what your next step will be. You can only learn and grow from your experiences, bad or good, and from the people you meet." I've since then learned and grown so much, and I'd love to share bits of my journey and experiences with you here.
After my two years working as a full-time model, I embarked on a new adventure, an academic journey at New York University. Fast forward to 2022, and I'm proud to say that I'm a graduate of NYU. Today, I wear multiple hats; I'm an influencer and the head of content design at the fintech startup Frich in the heart of New York City.
Now, you might be wondering how my journey from modeling to academia led me to where I am today. Well, the answer lies in my passion for creating content for social media. You see, I've honed my skills and know a lot about the art of crafting engaging content that resonates with audiences on my Instagram channel @annabelsmit. But what's even more exciting is my ability to help people turn their holiday pictures and videos into paychecks. It's all about transforming those memorable moments captured during your travels into a source of income.
The Secret of Turning Your Travels into Income
The secret? Paid partnerships. Yes, you read that right. The days of merely sharing your travel experiences with friends and family are long gone. Brands are now willing to pay you for your creativity and unique perspective. As an experienced influencer and the head of content design at Frich, I've had the privilege of connecting influencers with brands for paid partnerships, and I've seen firsthand how this new wave of marketing, known as User-Generated Content (UGC), is transforming the travel industry.
In the context of travel, UGC means that brands pay people just to create content, and you don't even have to post it on your personal feed. Imagine your next vacation not only funding itself but also becoming a profitable venture. Whether it's that stunning sunset over the Caribbean, a foodie adventure in Southeast Asia, or a picturesque road trip across Europe, your travel experiences are not just memories but potential income streams. Interested in making a side hustle income through UGC partnerships? Check out this new agency Pistachio, they have a 100% focus on UGC creators.
Examples of Travel Videos on Instagram
To give you a taste of what's possible, take a look at these inspiring travel video examples on Instagram:
Connecting with Influencer Agencies
If you're ready to take the plunge and explore the world of paid partnerships, connecting with influencer agencies can be a smart move. These agencies specialize in matching content creators with brands looking for engaging and authentic content. Here are a few influencer agencies to consider:
Influencer - founded by the infamous Caspar Lee
Creative Milkshake - they offer UGC opportunities for creators as well!
Beacons - get brand deals and start earning income through affiliate links
LTK - if you’re into fashion and you love tagging and linking brands on your stories, this is the platform for you! Start earning income each time someone buys through your link
So, the next time you plan a vacation, consider how your wanderlust could translate into a side hustle that not only supports your travels but also enhances your financial well-being. Turning your vacations into paycations is not only possible, but it's also a new and exciting way to experience the world. In this article series, I'll share insights, tips, and personal experiences to help you unlock the potential of travel as a side hustle and turn your passport into paychecks. Stay tuned for more adventures, insights, and practical advice on how to make your wanderlust work for you. And please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly @annabelsmit. to connect and ask any questions!
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