11 Best Shoes for Hiking Sand Dunes: Top Picks for Comfort and Traction in 2023

by Larissa T | Jun 7, 2022 | Best for

Hiking sand dunes can be a challenging and rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. However, to make the most of this activity, it is crucial to have the right gear, including the best shoes for hiking dunes. These 5 best shoes for hiking sand dunes should provide comfort, support, and traction on sandy and rocky terrain, while also being durable enough to withstand the elements.

When choosing hiking shoes for dunes, there are several factors to consider. The first is the type of terrain you will encounter. Dunes can be steep and unstable, so shoes with a sturdy sole and good grip are essential. The shoes should also be lightweight and breathable to keep your feet cool and prevent blisters.

In addition, the shoes should fit well and offer ample support to prevent injuries. They should also be made of high-quality materials that can withstand the harsh conditions of the desert environment. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right pair of shoes for your needs.

To help you make an informed decision, we have researched and tested several hiking shoes for dunes to identify the top picks for comfort and traction in 2023. Our selection includes shoes that meet the above criteria and provide excellent performance on sandy and rocky terrain. 

Best Shoes for Hiking sand Dunes: Top Picks for Comfort and Traction in 2023

When planning a hiking trip, the right pair of shoes can make all the difference. When hiking on sand dunes, it’s important to have shoes that provide both comfort and traction. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best shoes for hiking dunes in 2023. These shoes have been carefully selected based on their durability, support, and ability to provide traction on sandy terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, these shoes will help you conquer any sand dune with ease.

Yaktrax Hiking Traction Cleats

If you’re looking for an affordable and lightweight pair of traction cleats to reduce the risk of falls on snow or ice, the Yaktrax Hiking Traction Cleats are a great option.

Pros

• Provides 360 degrees of traction for all-direction stability on cold surfaces
• Highly elastic outer band with heel tab easily slips on and off shoes
• Abrasion-resistant 1.2 mm steel coils with zinc coating to prevent rust

Cons

• May fly off if not secured properly
• Not suitable for extreme winter conditions
• Sizing can be tricky, may need to size up

The Yaktrax Hiking Traction Cleats are perfect for pedestrians, professionals, and the elderly who need extra traction on slippery surfaces. The cleats are made of durable materials and provide 360 degrees of traction for all-direction stability. The highly elastic outer band makes them easy to slip on and off shoes, and the abrasion-resistant steel coils are designed to prevent rust. However, some users have reported that the cleats may fly off if not secured properly, and they may not be suitable for extreme winter conditions. Additionally, sizing can be tricky, so it may be necessary to size up.

Under Armour Charged Assert 9

If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish shoe for hiking dunes, the Under Armour Charged Assert 9 is a great choice.

Pros

• The lightweight mesh upper with 3-color digital print provides excellent breathability, making these shoes ideal for hot weather hikes.
• The Charged Cushioning midsole offers ultimate responsiveness and durability, ensuring your feet stay comfortable throughout your hike.
• The solid rubber outsole covers high impact zones for greater durability with less weight, making these shoes perfect for rugged terrain.

Cons

• The leather overlays for stability and midfoot locking may feel a bit tight at first, but they will break in over time.
• The standard tie lace-up closure may not be as secure as other closure systems, but it still provides a comfortable fit.
• The shoes may not be suitable for people with wider feet, as they tend to run a bit narrow.

The Under Armour Charged Assert 9 is a great shoe for hiking dunes, offering a comfortable and durable option for a variety of terrain. The lightweight mesh upper and Charged Cushioning midsole provide excellent breathability and support, while the solid rubber outsole ensures long-lasting durability. While the leather overlays and standard tie lace-up closure may not be perfect for everyone, they are still comfortable and secure enough for most hikers. Overall, if you’re in need of a reliable hiking shoe, the Under Armour Charged Assert 9 is definitely worth considering.

Dr. Scholl’s Comfort & Energy Work Men’s

If you work on hard surfaces all day and experience discomfort and fatigue in your feet and legs, the Dr. Scholl’s Comfort & Energy Work Men’s insoles are a great solution to alleviate your pain and provide the support you need.

Pros

• Designed for people who work on hard surfaces all day and experience discomfort and fatigue in their feet and legs
• Fastest treatment time – as fast as 10 sec
• Great Arch-Support – Firm columns provide contoured support to overworked arch area

Cons

• May not fit all types of shoes
• May take some time to get used to
• May not provide enough cushioning for some users

After trying out the Dr. Scholl’s Comfort & Energy Work Men’s insoles, I found that they provided excellent support and cushioning for my feet, especially when standing or walking on hard surfaces for extended periods of time. The firm columns provide contoured support to my overworked arch area, which helps to alleviate the pain and fatigue I used to experience on a daily basis.

One of the things I really appreciated about these insoles is their fast treatment time. They can be as fast as 10 seconds, which is great when you’re in a hurry and need to get back to work quickly. Additionally, they are designed to fit work boots, casual shoes, and sneakers, and can be trimmed to fit your shoe size.

However, I did find that they may not fit all types of shoes, so it’s important to check the sizing before purchasing. It may also take some time to get used to the insoles, especially if you’re not used to wearing arch-supporting insoles. Lastly, while they provide great cushioning for most users, some may find that they don’t provide enough cushioning for their specific needs.

EVENup Shoe Balancer/Leveler – MEDIUM

If you’re looking for a way to equalize your limb length and reduce body strain while walking in a fracture boot or below knee cast, the EVENup Shoe Balancer/Leveler is a great option.

Pros

• Adjustable height offers 1/2″, 3/4″, or 1 1/4″ lift to compensate for leg length changes
• Helps to avoid uneven gait and prevent back, hip, and knee pain
• Designed by Orthopedic doctors and tested by thousands of people

Cons

• May not fit well on all types of shoes
• Maximum lift height is 1 1/4″, which may not be enough for some users
• Some users have reported difficulty with the rubber strap slipping or not staying in place

The EVENup Shoe Balancer/Leveler is a great solution for anyone who needs to wear a fracture boot or below knee cast and wants to avoid the discomfort and strain of an uneven gait. With its adjustable height and proven design, it’s a reliable choice for anyone looking for relief from back, hip, or knee pain. However, it may not work well with all types of shoes, and the maximum lift height may not be enough for some users.

Overall, if you’re looking for a way to stay comfortable and pain-free while wearing a fracture boot or below knee cast, the EVENup Shoe Balancer/Leveler is definitely worth considering. With its proven design and adjustable height, it’s a reliable and effective solution that can help you stay on your feet and keep moving forward.

Note: This review is based on my own personal experience with the product and may not reflect the experiences of other users.

Teva Women’s Grandview Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots

We highly recommend the Teva Women’s Grandview Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots for tackling sand dunes with comfort and performance.Pros

• Sturdy and waterproof design
• Comfortable with a wider toe-box
• Superior traction with Vibram™ Megagrip outsole

Cons

• May not fit well for those with a narrow heel
• Style might not appeal to everyone
• Can be on the heavier side

After taking the Teva Women’s Grandview Gore-Tex Waterproof Hiking Boots on some sand dune hikes, we were impressed with their durable construction and high-quality materials. The combination of waterproof leather and quick-dry mesh kept our feet dry and comfortable, while the GORE-TEX bootie sealed out the elements effectively. We also appreciated the adjustable Universal Heel Lock System that minimized toe pressure during downhill treks.

When tackling sand dunes, traction is essential, and these boots delivered superbly. The Vibram™ Megagrip outsole ensured stability and grip on both wet and dry surfaces, making them perfect for navigating ever-changing dune terrain. The comfort of these boots is enhanced by the responsive PU footbed that put a spring in our step, making long hikes bearable and enjoyable.

Despite their many benefits, we noticed that these boots might not be the ideal choice for those with a narrow heel, as they may not offer the perfect fit. Moreover, some may not be fond of the style, but it goes without saying that their performance outweighs this minor drawback. Lastly, be prepared for a slightly heavier boot, but considering the protection and durability it offers, we believe it’s a worthwhile trade-off.

Teva Women’s Geotrecca Rp Hiking Boot 8.5 Sesame/Sand Dune

We highly recommend the Teva Women’s Geotrecca Rp Hiking Boot for hiking sand dunes due to its impressive features and performance.Pros

• Waterproof and durable design
• Comfortable fit with breathable lining
• Environmentally conscious materials

Cons

• Slightly higher price range
• Only one color option
• Limited sizes available

Recently, we had the chance to try out the Teva Women’s Geotrecca Rp Hiking Boot while exploring sand dunes. We were impressed by the waterproof materials and bootie construction that kept our feet dry throughout the hike. The 95% recycled polyester, 5% spandex textile upper with synthetic and waterproof leather overlays provided excellent protection and maintained flexibility.

The lightweight and breathable 65% recycled nylon, 35% polyester mesh lining kept our feet cool and comfortable during our hike. We found the fit to be snug, and the recycled polyester lace helped us achieve the perfect fit. Despite being slightly more expensive than some alternatives, the quality of these boots justifies the price.

The rugged Spider Rubber outsole made with 30% recycled content offered great traction in various conditions, making it suitable for all-weather city wear, day hikes, and multi-day hikes. Although we loved the Sesame/Sand Dune color, we wish there were more options to choose from. Overall, the Teva Women’s Geotrecca Rp Hiking Boot is a reliable and eco-friendly option for hiking sand dunes.

Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe

If you want a comfortable and durable option for hiking sand dunes, the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe is a terrific choice.Pros

• Breathable and comfortable
• Durable leather construction
• Excellent traction with Vibram sole

Cons

• May need a half size up for optimal fit
• Not waterproof
• Potential for insole issues, as reported by a few users

We just tried out the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe in a sand dune hike, and the experience was remarkable. The 100% leather upper and breathable mesh lining kept our feet comfortable throughout the journey, while the Ventilated Hiker design helped prevent sand from entering the shoe.

The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole provided excellent traction, making it easy to navigate the shifting sands of the dunes. This feature is essential for anyone planning to tackle sand dune hikes regularly. However, we did notice that the sizing might run slightly small, so it’s a good idea to consider going a half size up to get the perfect fit.

While these shoes aren’t waterproof, which may be a downside for some, the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe more than makes up for it in terms of comfort, durability, and performance on sand dunes. Overall, we highly recommend these hiking shoes for anyone looking to conquer the sand dunes in both style and comfort.

Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe

We highly recommend these hiking shoes for their impressive comfort, support, and traction, making them perfect for tackling sand dunes.Pros

• Exceptional comfort and ventilation with a supportive footbed
• High-quality Vibram sole for excellent traction on sand dunes
• Durable leather and mesh upper with a protective toe cap

Cons

• Laces might not be easily adjustable for some users
• May run slightly wide for those with narrower feet
• Older model, although still a reliable and well-priced option

We recently put the Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe to the test during our sand dune hiking adventure. The shoes undoubtedly lived up to their reputation for comfort and ventilation, making for a truly enjoyable hiking experience. With their supportive footbed, our feet felt secure and snug throughout our journey.

The Vibram sole provided top-notch traction that made trekking the sandy terrains a breeze. We especially appreciated the shoe’s durable leather and mesh upper, which not only enhanced its longevity but also offered a breathable feel. The protective toe cap was a plus, offering the necessary protection from unseen rocks or debris.

On the downside, some may find the laces difficult to adjust, and those with narrower feet might feel the shoe is slightly wider than expected. However, the overall performance of the Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe makes it an outstanding choice for outdoor enthusiasts exploring sand dunes.

Merrell Women’s Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe

These shoes are great for dune hiking enthusiasts, offering unparalleled grip and a design tailored for a woman’s foot.Pros

• Exceptional Vibram Megagrip sole
• Designed specifically for a woman’s foot
• Breathable and supportive

Cons

• Not entirely waterproof
• Sizing may run small
• Pricey for some

We recently tested the Merrell Women’s Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoes on sand dunes, and we were impressed by their performance. The Vibram Megagrip sole provided excellent traction even when the sand was wet, ensuring stability and security on uneven terrain.

The shoes are designed around the unique shape of a woman’s foot, offering a comfortable and snug fit without compromising on support. The mesh and TPU upper material allowed for sufficient airflow to keep our feet cool and dry, while the bellows tongue effectively kept out debris from the sand dunes.

Although these shoes are not fully waterproof, they do provide enough resistance to keep your feet dry in light rain or wet sand. If you plan on hiking in more extreme conditions, it is recommended to choose a waterproof shoe. Despite the potential sizing issue, we recommend the Merrell Women’s Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe for any woman seeking reliable, comfortable, and high-performance footwear when hiking sand dunes.

Teva Women’s Original Universal Sandal 7 Black

These Teva Women’s Original Universal Sandals provide exceptional comfort and utility, making them perfect for hiking sand dunes.Pros

• Incredibly comfortable
• Durable and supportive design
• Adjustable straps for a custom fit

Cons

• Limited traction on slippery surfaces
• No half sizes available
• Strap placement may cause tripping on steps

We recently wore these Teva sandals during a sand dune hike and were immensely impressed with their comfort and support. The contoured EVA footbed and midsole not only provided cushioning but also helped reduce foot fatigue throughout the day. The adjustable hook-and-loop webbing straps allowed us to achieve a perfect fit, ensuring that the sandals stayed securely in place during our trek.

One downside we experienced was the limited traction on more slippery surfaces, which required extra caution during some parts of our hike. Additionally, these sandals do not come in half sizes, which may be inconvenient for some. Lastly, the strap placement across the toes could potentially cause the front of the sandal to catch on steps, so be mindful when walking upstairs.

Overall, the Teva Women’s Original Universal Sandal is an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and utility when hiking sand dunes. Despite a few minor drawbacks, their durability and support make them a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts.

Merrell Men’s Bravada Hiking Shoe 7.5 Aluminum

We recommend the Merrell Men’s Bravada Hiking Shoe for its perfect blend of sneaker-like comfort and hiker performance, making it a top choice for tackling sand dunes.Pros

• Exceptional comfort and fit
• Great traction on sand dunes
• Breathable and protective design

Cons

• Runs slightly large
• May be less suitable for high arches
• Rigid sole for some users

Upon using the Merrell Men’s Bravada Hiking Shoe, we realized that it excels in providing an exceptional wearing experience for hiking sand dunes. The comfortable and snug fit is reminiscent of a regular sneaker, minimizing any discomfort during hikes.

This shoe shines when it comes to traction on sand dunes. The reliable grip assists in tackling steep and slippery terrains with ease, enabling us to confidently navigate the challenging landscape. Furthermore, the shoe offers a protective toe cap and a bellows tongue that effectively keeps debris out, enhancing the overall experience.

Even though these shoes boast a range of impressive features, we found that they may not be the perfect fit for everyone – particularly those with high arches, as they could experience discomfort due to the shoe’s design. Additionally, the sole was found to be slightly rigid for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Merrell Men’s Bravada Hiking Shoe remains a top contender for those seeking footwear tailored to hiking on sand dunes.

Buying Guide

When it comes to hiking dunes, choosing the right shoes can make all the difference. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the best shoes for your needs:

Fit and Comfort

One of the most important things to consider when buying hiking shoes is the fit. You want to make sure that the shoes fit well and are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Look for shoes with ample cushioning and support, and make sure that they fit snugly without being too tight.

Traction

When hiking on dunes, you need shoes with good traction to help you grip the sand and avoid slipping. Look for shoes with deep treads and a sturdy sole that can provide traction on uneven surfaces.

Material

The material of the shoe can also make a big difference in how comfortable and durable they are. Look for shoes made from breathable materials that will allow your feet to stay cool and dry, and choose shoes with a sturdy construction that can withstand the wear and tear of hiking on sand.

Water Resistance

If you plan on hiking near the water or in wet conditions, you may want to consider shoes with water-resistant features. Look for shoes with a waterproof membrane or coating that can help keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Weight

The weight of the shoe can also be an important factor to consider, especially if you plan on hiking long distances. Look for shoes that are lightweight and breathable, but still provide ample support and protection for your feet.

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8 Fun Things to do on a long car ride with kids.

8 Healthy sleep solutions or how to get some sleep at night

by Larissa T | Apr 7, 2022 | Best for

As a mom of three kids that travels regularly, I didn’t have a good sleep for at least 12 years. I was hoping when my younger child starts sleeping through the night, I would get some sleep at night but it never happened so I look for some healthy sleep solutions and found them!

So here are non-medical healthy sleep solutions or how to get some sleep at night.

One reason for poor sleep was a head full of thoughts and emotions collected within a day. Once I would lie down and close my eyes, the thoughts pop up and buzz.

Another problem was chronic shoulder and back pain. Even if I was lucky to fall asleep, I would wake up and roll around feeling my body’s pain.

Did I try pain killers and sleep meds? Heck yes. It would help for a couple of weeks and then the story repeats.

And with traveling, jet lags, hotel pillows, and mattresses, sleep got only worse and you can not enjoy any trip being grumpy so I had to do something and I found an answer.

I got this book called “Sleep Smarter” and it had absolutely zero medical recommendations, just pure wisdom and I got my sleep back. I actually found much better sleep. So now I sleep between 6 – 7 hours at night and wake up early and bright. I run around the whole day and when I lay down at night I just fall into a deep sweet sleep.

Healthy sleep solutions or how to get some sleep at night

Sleep Smarter

Here are the best free remedies for good quality sleep:

– Meditation. I do it for 2 minutes before bedtime. Just TWO minutes! And my mind is calm and all thoughts are dead or maybe sleeping, I don’t really care.

Another healthy sleep solution is:

– 10 minutes of sunlight. If you let sunlight fill up your vision, your brain will stay awake and you will be brighter during the day.

Why do exercises help us sleep better?

– morning exercise. I started with two minutes a day. Just 10 squads would make my heart beat faster and I would completely wake up. If you want better results such as a great mood for the whole day, exercise for 10 minutes or till you sweat.

Sweat takes out toxins from your body cells and that’s why we feel so light after workouts. If you go even further than first sweat and do weight lifting and fitness, you will gain a beautiful and strong body. You choose.

Morning exercise runs blood through your body, and every single cell wakes up. That helps you to stay more alert during the day and be tired by the sleep time.

Besides this, if you lift the weight, you tear your muscles and the only time when they get restored is sleep. Since it requires a lot of energy, the brain takes it from other processes and that puts you in a deeper “off” mode.

That’s why exercises help us sleep better.

Another remedy to get some sleep at night is:

10 minutes walking bare feet on the ground (don’t mix up with the floor). It is interesting that I always thought it is something superstitious to go to the forest and hug a tree to make you feel better but it appeared pure science. Our body is made out of “dirt”. It contains elements taken from the ground so when we are in contact with the Earth, we get healed by its electromagnetic influence.

– journaling. Write every day what you are thankful for/your dreams/plans/pain/fears/all those annoying thoughts and ideas that buzz in your head. Once you let the thoughts out. They will leave you alone.

Some of the best, not free remedies get some sleep at night are:

– Magnesium. Did you know that every single cell of your body contains magnesium and it participates in all chemical reactions of your body? Well, then you need a lot of it every day. If you have a deficiency, you will have a light or interrupted sleep. I used it and since the first day I slept for 5-6 hours. And wake up without alarm bright and full of energy.

– Earthing/grounding Sheet or Mat. Have you ever heard about them? Neither did I until I read the book. Earthing sheet produces waves of the same frequency as Earth and they have a healing effect on our whole essence since everything our body has is taken from the Earth.

I got this sheet 3 days ago and I think it had the most powerful effect. I had chronic pain in my shoulder and back but with the grounding sheet, my sleep looks like someone turned off the light (and I am out). And I woke up as someone turned on the light. No alarm, I sleep for 6 and a half hours, wake up bright and fresh, and then run around until I lay on that sheet. Then the light is off.

Grounding Sheet

This is one of the best travel accessories to fight jet lag, chronic pain, and sore musculus.

Grounding Mat

This one is lightweight and perfect for traveling, and working.

Blackout curtains

I didn’t realize how much outdoor lightning messed up my sleep. I probably woke up a few times when the moon was full and we have other light resources too, so we pretty much sleep with bright light.

Please, please, read the book “Sleep Smarter“. It has much more recommendations and scientific explanations than I brought here. I also have another book that is able to make a revolution in your life within 30 days. It did for me and it will for you. It calls “Miracle Morning”.

It is written by Hal Elrod who survived a coma after a car accident, got robbed by his publisher, and was bankrupt but yet he is the most successful life coach out there. And his best work is “Miracle Morning”. If you didn’t know him, it’s time to do it.

Miracle Morning

Miracle morning is for sure the most powerful and life-changing book I ever read. Recommendations in the book changed my life the day I implemented them. They not only improved my sleep, but they also improved my life.

Can you make money online with Amateur Blogs?

by Larissa T | Feb 10, 2022 | Best for

In this blog post, you will learn what to expect from amateur blogging within the first year and how to make money online.

When I found out about blogging, I was looking for work with flexible hours, allowing me to stay home with my youngest child, travel more, and make some money to offset some of our travel expenses. We love traveling and were doing a good bit of it already, so I started a travel blog. For that I had to learn how to start blog from scratch.

Here is what my day and lifestyle look like.

I wake up and send older kids to school and the entire morning I play with my three-year-old, doing housework in between. After lunch, he goes for a two-hour nap and I work on my blog. Checking emails and seeing an answer from sponsors saying they want to work with me makes me excited. I send a few more emails and start creating the next blog post, anticipating it will help my readers to make their life easier.

Blogging is fun and it can change your life.

Once my son wakes up, we fix supper and I dream about my next trip while peeling potatoes.

On long weekends and school breaks, we travel, and once we come back; I create content for the sponsored activities we have had the joy of having.

What a life!

To be fair, I will add, we already were traveling a lot and luxury family travel blogging was a natural addition to our lifestyle. But the good news is you can blog absolutely on any topic that lines up with your lifestyle and get both pleasure and income.

Parenting, dancing, cooking, healthy lifestyle, emotional support, dog training, home organizing, cleaning, knitting, preschool activities, fitness are just a few niches I know my classmates succeeded in.

I said classmates because I learned to blog from a course where together with the other six thousand bloggers; we were tackling the exciting road of blogging.

Most of us blog on what we are passionate about so I picked the luxury family travel niche because I can share much about it and help other families to find the best destinations, family attractions, and since it is also a food travel blog, we spotlight the best restaurants in the area.

Amateur blogs. Expect to learn a lot.

Even when I do things for my pleasure, I look for an excellent teacher to learn from. First, I took this free 5 day’s course to create my website. Each lesson was 10 minutes long and took me a day to create a website. Yep. They were so good at explaining all the details that I set it all up within a day! Plus, it comes with a Facebook support group where I could ask all my questions. It sped up the process a hundred times.

The next step was to write my first 20 blog posts. Since I had about six hours a week for writing, it took me a year to create those twenty. I wasn’t in a rush, though.

It was a check for me too. I promised myself if I can commit to blogging for a year, I will take the next step and learn to profit from it. I planned to take a course that teaches:

• how to monetize your blog,
• to get complimentary/paid trips,
• what you need to make your website legal, how and where to promote it,
• list of networks to join to get paid opportunities,
• email template to pitch to sponsors for paid trips,
• And the most important resource is the 2 support groups. One is to ask all questions about blogging and the second one is a support group with bloggers who come and leave comments/likes on your blog and social media posts.
• and much more

In short, this course offered everything a person needs to take blogging for pleasure to the next level, the pleasure of making money. He! He! I was eager to discover the full potential of the blog! I was on the edge at first, but since this course had a money-back guarantee, I bought it.

BIG DAY!

I pressed the “Publish” button on February 15, which is the official birthday of my blog. Happy Birthday to my fourth “Child”!

Amateur blogging. Expect to earn your first buck.

Yes. Even if you blog for your joy, you can profit from it. Anything from passive income gained from ads to million-dollar projects.

Here are just a few ideas how bloggers make money

• commissions
• sponsored posting
• content creation
• selling digital products (photos, videos)
• writing books/courses
• placing ads on their website
• coaching/consultant services, etc.

If you think blogging is for stay-at-home moms with little kids. Nop. Disney, National Geographic, Coca-Cola, Walmart, Allstate, Wholefoods, The Ritz-Carlton, and millions of other smaller and bigger companies run blogs. A blog is a regularly updated website, and about 99% of the entire web fits this category.

But let’s get back to my blog. It took me a few weeks to read a four-week course specifically for travel bloggers and another one that is for any other niche. The first thing I did is I used template email, adjusted it to my business, and pitched it to several companies.

I waited for 2 days and I got my first “YES. We are interested in working with you”. Hurray! I was dancing like crazy! My heart still bits faster every time I recall that email. I knew from that day that this job was a gold mine. This first deal covered my expenses for one course. Within the year of blogging, I worked on six paid projects and am getting more!

Here are the sponsored projects I had the honor of working on:

Tecumseh Outdoor Drama, Is More than Just a play

Kentucky Horse Park. All you need to know before you go.

Fun Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, North Pole Adventure.

Come to Lake Metroparks Farmpark, and Milk the Cow.

Great Lakes Science Center. Things to do in Cleveland.

Greater Cleveland Aquarium. Fun things to do in Cleveland.

Can you make money online with Amateur Blogs? Expect to progress.

I remember my first ten blog posts. I deleted them because they were one paragraph long and just a bundle of thoughts thrown on the paper, but I kept writing and my eleventh post was over a thousand words long, had good pictures, and was worth reading.

When you blog, I inspire you to do your best, be proud of your work, and continue. Nobody is perfect and ever will be and you do not need to, but when you keep working, the result gets better.

There is also a ton of support around. English is not my native language and I can still blog and land paid deals. I found this service called ProWritingAid, which corrects grammar mistakes and gives me 10 in-depth reports such as readability, writing style, plagiarism, overused words, etc. This program is so good that writers and publishers use it.

The same is for any other sphere. If you have a question, there is an answer.

Expect to develop new habits and skills. Can you make money online with Amateur Blogs?

Every blogger starts with hers/his own set of skills, which will be unique to you too. Here is what I had to develop:

• Self-starter. No one will tell you what your next goal will be. Set it yourself, set the deadline and finish the project. When you take the course, you will have a “map” but you choose a route and the speed yourself.
• Discipline. Make time for blogging. When I looked at my schedule, I thought: “Oh. I already run a preschool, there is no time for blogging”. But since I wanted to do it so badly, I made time available. I do blogging during my youngest son’s nap time, I also work during my kids’ practice time. Previously, I would chat with other parents, now I work on a blog. So total 6 hours per week and I have a part-time “joy” that brings me income.
• Take pictures that pass emotions. I love taking pictures, especially of my kids, and as long as they are not blurry, they all are precious to me. With blogging, I learned to take pictures that rise emotions even if my kids are not on them. It took time.
• Make videos that tell a story.
• Prioritize. Did you know blogging can bring million dollars a year? I didn’t either until I met my teachers. They have been earning this much for years. They work full time and have a team to help them reach those goals. Well, I want to have such income but since I work 6 hours per week; I have to prioritize. This month I pitch for sponsored trips, next month we travel, a month after, I write a post, etc. I can’t do it all in one week, but I can do it all one by one.

Expect to make new friends

Blogging is an exceptional opportunity to meet likewise people. We, the travel bloggers, are adventurous and easy-going, so it makes it natural to cooperate and make friends. And our business partners are usually the best people on the earth that are interested in building strong business relationships. Although it is not a goal, it is an enormous benefit of the industry.

Amateur blogging. Expect to enrich your life.

Besides money, travel blogging brings unforgettable experiences for our family that we could never afford or experience otherwise. One of my favorite aspects of travel blogging is the VIP treatment. When we are on a paid project, our kids get goodie bags and we get the best seats, private tours, and that special attention that makes the job a dream job.

Amateur blogging. Expect to be proud of yourself.

Blogging is fun, rewarding, and challenging. Expect to be proud of yourself. I remember when I made my first 97 cents. NINETY-SEVEN CENTS! I felt like a millionaire. I knew I can double, triple, quadruple this result to stream money my way.

My advice, celebrate every single bit of success. If you do that, it will fill your entire journey with holidays. Finished that blog post? – Give yourself hurray! Got your first deal? – Have a happy dance. Finished that assignment on time? Get a cookie. Had a sponsored trip? – Dance all the way to the destination!

Whatever you achieve, celebrate!

Amateur blogging. Conclusion.

When I started this path, I expected some fun, but I didn’t expect to find out that with amateur blogging, the sky is the limit.

Happy Birthday to us!

Can’t wait to see what a New Year brings!