My First Year as a Travel Vlogger: What They Don’t Tell You

By Sofa Ibrahim

It’s been just over a year since I decided to become a travel vlogger. And here’s the hard truth:

It ain’t easy.

I really don’t know how some creators do it—making 6- or even 7-figure incomes in a few months, jet-setting while effortlessly pumping out polished content. I’m not being negative. I’m being honest. I am not them.

I didn’t hit my income goals. I didn’t go viral. But here’s the part I’m proud of: I’m still here. Still learning. Still filming. Still growing.

This isn’t a post about quitting. This is a story about pivoting.

Why I Chose This Path

What a lot of people don’t know is that I’m doing this part-time. My full-time job is being a mother to two children with special needs. I homeschool my youngest and help my older son with schoolwork. Every spare moment outside of that, I pour into this dream—learning, experimenting, filming, editing, researching, and showing up on camera even when I feel rundown.

I started because I wanted to explore the world through my lens and show other moms that it’s possible to chase big dreams—even when life is complicated.

The Reality of Year One

I invested in gear—cameras, lenses, drones, gimbals, phones—all for better quality. I squeezed filming into moments between naps, meals, and meltdowns. I often stressed over lighting or audio… while someone tugged at my shirt needing help. It was chaos, but it was also growth.

And trying to enjoy a destination while capturing it? That’s a balance I’m still learning.

What I’ve Learned

  • There are so many moving parts—planning, gear, editing, posting, and staying present with family.
  • Kids mimic everything—so I taught them when “the red light” means quiet time or space.
  • Energy is limited—not every travel day needs to be a filming day.
  • Money goes fast—especially when you don’t plan.
  • Packing and appearance matter—how I look affects how I feel on camera.

So, Now What?

I’m not giving up. I’m just being smarter about it.

  • Planning my trips and filming ahead—including scripts and outfits.
  • Giving myself rest days during travel—because burnout kills creativity.
  • Involving my son—he’s curious, helpful, and learning with me.
  • Budgeting smarter—and exploring affiliate income + travel agent training.
  • Showing up as my best self—not perfect, but present.

The Goal Ahead

I may not have hit six figures, but I’m aiming for something real: $1,000 in the next 3 months.

Still growing. Still vlogging. Still dreaming.

Thanks for being part of this journey.

— Sofia 🌍✨

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