TAKE 5 with Claire Hall, Tin Box Traveller

Why did you decide to start blogging?

I’ve always been a writer by profession; first as a newspaper journalist and then in the world of public relations. In 2012 redundancy was on the horizon and I was pregnant with my first daughter. Starting my own blog seemed like a good way to use my skills and record the new adventure ahead of me.

Why family life and travel?

I’ve always loved exploring new places both in the UK and abroad. When I set up Tin Box Traveller my husband and I had just bought a caravan to take us on holidays. And with a baby on the way family travel seemed like the perfect focus for the blog. I now share our travel experiences, reviews and holiday tips for families with babies, toddlers and beyond.

Who or what inspires you?

I get a lot of inspiration from other bloggers. I love reading about the places they’ve visited and destinations they rate. There are some extremely talented writers and photographers within the UK family travel blogger community with the ability to whisk you away to the Scottish Highlands or Tuscany in the space of 350 words.

What is your pitch to PRs? How would you prefer to be contacted by them?

If you want to reach young families with an interest in child-friendly destinations and accommodation, days out and attractions, or products to make their travels easier, I’m your blogger. I’m also really friendly! The best way to reach me is to drop me an email with details of how you’d like to collaborate. I’m afraid I don’t publish press releases.

Where would you like to see you blog in one year from now?

2016 has been a fantastic year for Tin Box Traveller. In the past six months alone I’ve increased the number of visitors to my blog by two-thirds and doubled my social media following. I’ve worked with some great brands and had some brilliant travel opportunities. I’ve also made it to the finals of a couple of family travel blogging awards, which has been a real thrill. It’s hard to imagine where my blog is going next. I hope that my readers will continue to read and that I continue to expand my audience. Winning one of those awards would be nice too!