Simultaneous Submissions

For new travel writers the idea of coming up with an idea and sending a query to only one publication and then waiting six weeks for a reply can seem like forever. And trust me, it does feel like forever. There are various opinions on sending simultaneous submissions among writers. It's my experience that as a beginner your chances of having two publications buy your idea are pretty slim - however it's always a possibility.

I'll admit that I'm guilty of simultaneous submissions. I became comfortable about the idea after reading The Renegade Writer: A Totally Unconventional Guide to Freelance Writing Success by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell. They suggest taking your ideas and putting different "spins" on them in order to keep multiple queries out in the market place.

The bottom line is this: Do what you're comfortable with. And keep in mind that some publications accept simultaneous submissions. Just be sure to mention that you are submitting the idea to other publications. That way if two or more publications bite, it won't be any surprise if you tell them you've sold it elsewhere.