Simple SEO Checklist for Travel Brands: Get Found Online Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Let’s be honest — SEO sounds technical, doesn’t it? 😅But if you're a travel brand wanting to get found online, this is something you can’t ignore.

The good news? SEO doesn’t have to be scary. It’s a lot simpler than you think — and you don’t need to be a techie to do it.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through a simple SEO Checklist for Travel that’s made specifically for travel entrepreneurs, tour operators, and small agencies. These are practical tips that can help boost your visibility online, which means more inquiries and, yes — more bookings. 🙌

🌍 First things first: What is SEO?

SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization — basically, it’s how you help your website show up when someone searches on Google. For example:

• Someone types in “El Nido island hopping tour” on Google...

• Will your website appear in the results?

• If not, this checklist can help change that.

You don’t have to do everything at once. Start with just one tip per week — every small step counts! Here's Your Simple SEO Checklist for TRAVEL (with examples!)

1. Start with your homepage

Your homepage is like your digital storefront. It needs to be clear, easy to read, and quick to load. SEO checklist will help Googlers find you!

✅ Do this:

• Use a clear page title like:“ABC Travel Co. | Customized Island Tours in the Philippines”

• Add a short but helpful intro that tells people what you do and who you help.

• Make sure your site is mobile-friendly — most travelers are browsing on their phones.

For Example: Instead of just saying “Welcome”,

Say:“We’re ABC Travel — your go-to team for personalized, hassle-free trips across Palawan, Cebu, and Bohol.”

What's In Your homepage?

2. Use keywords naturally

Think like your ideal traveler. What would they type on Google?

✅ Do this:

• Use phrases like “budget-friendly Siargao tour” or “family-friendly Bohol itinerary” in your page headlines, descriptions, and even image names.

• But — don’t overdo it. Google favors websites that sound human, not stuffed with keywords.

For Example: Instead of writing: “We offer tours, tour packages, tours to Bohol, cheap Bohol tours…” Say: “Explore Bohol with our affordable, local-guided packages — perfect for couples, families, or barkadas.”

3. Create helpful content

Content is one of your biggest assets when it comes to getting found online.

The more helpful and relevant your content, the better your chances of showing up on search engines — and attracting the right people.

✅ Do this:

• Write blog posts, destination guides, FAQs, or even "how-to" articles.

• Keep it simple and include your local expertise — that’s what sets you apart.

For Example:

• “5 Things to Know Before Visiting Siargao”

• “How to Plan a Hassle-Free Barkada Trip in Cebu”

• “What to Pack for a 3-Day Island Tour in El Nido”

Not sure what to write about? You're not alone — many travel brands get stuck here. There’s a way to make content planning easier (check the P.S. below 😉). 4. Optimize your images

Your beautiful travel photos deserve to be seen — but they need to help your SEO too.

✅ Do this:

• Rename image files with keywords.

  • Instead of IMG_4567.jpg, use el-nido-sunset.jpg

• Compress image size so your site loads faster (you can use free tools like TinyPNG).

Pro Tip: Add alt text describing the photo — it helps with accessibility and SEO.

What website planning looks like

5. Claim and update your Google Business Profile

If you serve a local area or have an office, this one’s important.

✅ Do this:

• Add your contact info, location (if any), website link, and business hours.

• Upload recent photos and reply to reviews regularly.

For Example: When someone types “Travel agency in Cebu”, Google often shows business listings before websites. Make sure yours is up-to-date!

6. Check your links

Broken buttons and links frustrate visitors — and search engines too.

✅ Do this:

• Visit your site and click every button, link, and tab.

• Fix or remove anything that leads to an error.

• Add links between your blog posts and pages to guide users around your site.

For Example: In your blog post about Siargao, link to your Siargao tour package page. This helps users and also improves your SEO.

7. Keep your website fresh

Google favors websites that are regularly updated. It shows you’re active and relevant.

✅ Do this:

• Update your photos, blog posts, or seasonal promos.

• Even adding one new post a month helps!

For Example: Feature a short article like “Best Time to Visit Bohol This 2025” or “Our Summer Tour Highlights” to keep things current.

✨ Every small move matters

You don’t need to be a web expert or hire a big agency to improve your online visibility.Just start with one item on this list. Then the next. Then the next.

SEO Checklist for Travel is simply helping your dream clients find you — and trust you.

💬 Need a little guidance? If you're not sure where to start or just want someone to take a quick look at your site with fresh eyes, I’d love to help. Sometimes all it takes is a short conversation to get clarity and direction.

👉 Message me here — let’s make your travel brand easier to find (and book!). P.S. And... if you're always stuck thinking, “What should I post next?” You’re not alone — content planning can feel like a full-time job.

That’s exactly why I created the 365 Days of Travel Content Prompts ebook.

It’s not just daily prompts — it’s your go-to content partner designed to help you show up consistently and support your SEO along the way.

Less stress. More ideas. And a bit of strategy, too.

👉 Take a look here — I think you’ll love it. 💛