✈️ What Travel Taught Me About Great Content Strategy
- Shannon Hurst
- May 12
- 4 min read
Let’s be honest, no one wants to read another dry blog post about “content funnels” and “targeted messaging.” So today, we’re going off the beaten path (literally) to talk about how travel and content strategy are more alike than you think.
Whether you're planning a trip to Portugal or building a content plan for your small business, it all comes down to the same things: strategy, intention, flexibility, being memorable and having fun. Oh and perhaps a pastel de nata!
Ok, lets have some fun and find some relativity!
🗺️ 1. You Need a Map (But Be Open to Detours)
You wouldn’t head to a new country without at least some idea of where you're going. The same can be said for content. Look at creating a content calendar or strategy like you would your itinerary. Both keep you organized, on track, and aligned with your goals.
However, for me... sometimes the magic happens when you veer off course. Maybe a blog idea pops into your head mid-flight to Amsterdam or a trending topic shows up on your feed while scrolling at the airport waiting to board.
Like any good traveler, a good content creator knows when to follow the plan and when to follow the moment.
And if you’re too busy to even create the map? That’s where hiring a professional content writer (🙋♀️ hi, that’s me) comes in handy.
📸 2. Every Moment Can Be a Story
Travel teaches you to notice the little things: a street performer in Lisbon, a vendor in Madeira, a stunning sunrise in the majestic mountains. These are the kind of memories that can stick and for me content is no different.
The best content doesn’t always come from big launches or perfectly curated campaigns. Sometimes, it’s the behind-the-scenes peek at your process, the lesson you learned from a client, or the honest moment that makes your audience feel something.
Pro tip: Capture those everyday stories. They’re often your most powerful.
🎒 3. Pack Light, But Bring What Matters
You don’t need everything, despite what my dear friend Crystall thinks (sorry girl, ya know I love ya). You need the right things.
The same can be said for marketing. A good content strategy isn’t about posting seven times a week across every platform it’s about showing up where it counts, consistently and with purpose. I know everyone says it, but it's just so darn bang on, so I will reiterate it, know your audience. You need to choose your channels, and keep your message clear and simple.
Travel light. Post smart.
🍝 4. Culture Matters
Ever order food in another country without understanding the menu? I have gotten myself into trouble a few times with this one. Now if I'm not sure I ask and if it doesn't taste great, I don't force it down. You only need food poisoning once to really have this one hit home.
In content marketing, understanding your audience’s culture, language, and expectations is everything. What works for a Gen Z fashion brand won’t work for a B2B leadership coach. The better you understand your audience’s language and “local flavour,” the better your content.
Do your research. Listen more. And don’t assume your way is the only way.
🌅 5. Make It Memorable (And take lots of pictures or journal)
The best trips stay with you long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase. All I have to do is see a picture in my memories on Facebook and I am back there again despite the years. I have a friend that journals and has created a book of her trip and that is sooo cool too,
While great content can be seen in these scenarios, the content you create for your business should do the same.
Whether it's a funny caption, a beautiful photo, or a thought-provoking story, good content sticks. It inspires, teaches, or entertains and ideally, it brings your audience back for more.
So don’t just post because you need to, post to make them feel something.
✨ Final Boarding Call: Content Strategy Is the Journey
Like travel, content strategy isn’t just about the destination, it’s about the experience. It’s about showing up, sharing your voice, and making real connections along the way.
Not sure where to start, or just need a creative travel buddy for your content journey? That’s where people like me come in.
As a professional writer and content strategist I love the creative process, the planning, taking pics and telling your story.
I thought it would be fun to show you I mean what I preach. I love to travel, be creative, create content and find inspiration. Henceforth the little vlog about the epic levada adventure in the magical Madeira last month with my wonderful friends. And yes, I'm a dork and love to laugh and yes this is personal video not freaking Walt Disney! Oh and if you ever get the chance to go to Madeira, whether you like to hike or not, take it!!!
🧳 Ready to explore your next content strategy with a travel-loving, story-driven pro?📩 Contact me today and let’s plan your next great journey on and offline.



Comments