Travel influencers are revolutionizing the tourism industry, helping travelers explore new destinations, promoting unique experiences, and driving brand awareness. Their reach and influence are crucial in shaping the choices of travelers worldwide. If you’re looking to partner with a travel influencer or want to become one yourself, understanding how these influencers secure sponsorships is essential. In this post, we’ll dive into the top 5 U.S. travel influencers, one leading Pakistani travel influencer, and how they land sponsorship deals. Additionally, we’ll explain how our travel and tour website can help manage influencers, provide premium travel services, and broker sponsorship deals.
Top 5 U.S. Travel Influencers Who Attract Lucrative Sponsorships
- Brian Kelly (The Points Guy)
Niche: Travel rewards, miles, credit cards, and travel hacks.
Sponsorship Strategy: Brian Kelly, the founder of The Points Guy, has turned his expertise into a highly profitable business. His audience, dedicated to travel rewards and maximizing credit card points, makes him a prime candidate for sponsorship deals with brands in the travel, finance, and credit card sectors. Companies like Chase, American Airlines, and Citi have partnered with him due to his authority and influence in the travel rewards niche.
- Kaitlyn Kall (Kaitlyn the Traveler)
Niche: Adventure travel and outdoor lifestyle.
Sponsorship Strategy: Kaitlyn partners with brands like GoPro and Lonely Planet, promoting adventure travel experiences. She emphasizes authenticity in her content, which resonates with her followers who seek genuine adventure and cultural exploration. Her sponsorships reflect her outdoor, adventure-driven lifestyle.
- Chris Burkard
Niche: Nature photography, landscape, and adventure travel.
Sponsorship Strategy: Chris Burkard has built a massive following due to his stunning photography of remote landscapes. His partnerships with top brands such as Patagonia and Nikon are a testament to his influence in the adventure and outdoor photography community. His visually compelling content attracts high-end sponsors looking to showcase nature and adventure products.
- Eva zu Beck
Niche: Solo travel and cultural exploration.
Sponsorship Strategy: Eva’s content revolves around solo travel, culture, and human connection. Her collaborations with global brands like Intrepid Travel and Lonely Planet have earned her recognition in the travel influencer world. Eva’s sponsorship deals focus on promoting cultural travel experiences and empowering solo travelers.
- Nomadic Matt (Matt Kepnes)
Niche: Budget travel and affordable travel tips.
Sponsorship Strategy: Matt Kepnes is one of the most influential budget travel bloggers. His website, Nomadic Matt, has partnered with travel companies like Hostelworld and Travel Insurance. His sponsorships are primarily aimed at affordable travel solutions for budget-conscious travelers.
Leading Pakistani Travel Influencer:
- Sana Aftab
Niche: Luxury travel and cultural exploration.
Sponsorship Strategy: Sana Aftab has carved out a niche in the luxury travel sector, showcasing her experiences with high-end hotels, destinations, and exclusive cultural encounters. She works with brands like Four Seasons and luxury travel providers. Her elegant and sophisticated approach to travel attracts sponsorships from premium brands targeting an affluent audience.
