The Masterclasses by National Geographic Traveller (UK) returned this week with a series of one-hour writing and photography sessions.

The final event of our travel writing series featured our panel of experienced journalists discussing travel trends and how to write about them.

Travel writer and editor Francisca Kellett led the session, quizzing the panellists on everything from sustainable travel trends to crafting a successful pitch.

Here’s a look at three pieces of invaluable advice shared by our panel:

• Richard Hammond, a writer and videographer specialising in sustainable travel, reminded the audience of the need to keep the reader entertained. “Stories are at the heart of tourism and travel,” he said. “Editors want to entertain the readers, and people read newspapers and magazines because they want to dream about their next holiday.”
  
• When it comes to ensuring you’re recommending truly sustainable experiences, freelance journalist Karen Edwards highlighted the importance of doing your research. “I always suggest looking quite deeply into who you’re booking with,” she said. “Take the time to research and make sure you’re not suggesting anything that could be damaging. I’m always looking for operators who are practising what they preach.”
  
• Helen Coffey, travel editor of The Independent, had some practical tips for writers looking to secure a commission for flight-free stories. “You need to check that you can actually make the journey as a traveller,” she said. “Publications are consumer led, so if our readers can’t do the trip, we’re not going to cover it.”

The Masterclasses by National Geographic Traveller (UK) will return in 2023.