songs about travel and adventure 2022

72 Best Songs about Travel and Adventure

Published by sarah vaughan on february 9, 2022 february 9, 2022.

In this article, we list our top 72 favorite songs about travel and adventure, with the option to listen to them on a Spotify playlist. As full-time nomads and constant road-trippers, we spend a lot of time in the car, which means hours upon hours of listening to music. In 2021 alone, we drove over 10,000 miles on our journey from Virginia to California and back. So needless to say, we spend an inordinate amount of time listening to music in the car.

Often, we find ourselves gravitating towards songs that align with our two favorite things – travel and adventure, but it can be hard to find songs that fit that mood. Songs that inspire wanderlust, that make you feel like a you just took a deep breath of mountain air, that remind you of a travel memory, or, in their own unique way, perfectly capture the essence of life on the road. It’s not one particular genre or type of music, just anything that makes you feel inspired to pack your bags and go on an adventure !

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Our life as nomads

In March of 2021, we sold most our belongings, packed up what was left into our Jeep Cherokkee, left our apartment in Virginia and hit the road: California bound! We drove from Virginia to St. Louis before making our way to Denver.

After spending a week in Denver, we continued to Southern California, then to southern Utah, Arizona, northern California, Idaho, South Dakota, Minnesota… eventually we decided we loved life on the road too much to ever give it up and we made this nomadic lifestyle permanent.

We both secured jobs that would allow us to work remotely full-time during the week and are now full-time nomads. We typically settle into a new “home base” each month with space for us both to work, usually in small towns strategically located near beautiful places with abundant opportunities for outdoor adventuring.

P.S: You can read more about us here and keep up with our road trip adventures here .

Inspiration for our Songs about Travel & Adventure Playlist

We love listening to music that stokes our wanderlust and gets us excited for new adventures. We’ve found it tough to find songs that fit that bill, so we’ve been slowly compiling our own playlist as we come across songs we relate to.

Our lifestyle demands a lot of road tripping, and over the many miles and hours in the car, we’ve crafted the perfect playlist of songs about travel and adventure that we’re excited to share with you!

We hope our playlist will leave you feeling inspired to get out there and see the world!

Details | 64 Best Songs about Travel & Adventure

Our music taste tends to lean towards the Folk, Americana, and blues-y Country genres, and that’s mainly what you’ll find on this playlist.

A few of our favorite bands, like Caamp , Trampled by Turtles , Turnpike Troubadours (we are beyond thrilled they are back together!), Lord Huron , and The National Parks, make an appearance on the list a few times. We hope you love these songs as much as we do, and that our playlist inspires you to hit the road, start a new adventure, or discover a new place that you love!

In the article below, we list our favorite songs about adventure and travel, sorted roughly into the following categories:

• Wanderlust & travel inspiration songs
• Songs about the outdoors and nature

Songs about road tripping

Songs inspired by specific locations.

And if you don’t see one of your favorites, let us know! We are always looking for new music and would love to add new songs to the list.

Download our Songs about Travel & Adventure Spotify Playlist

For our complete list of songs about travel and adventure already in playlist form and ready for your enjoyment, enter your email below and we’ll send you a link to download our ultimate travel playlist on Spotify.

We add to the Spotify playlist periodically as we find music that inspires us, so it may contain additional songs not yet included in this blog post. Happy listening!

Download the Travel & Adventure Playlist on Spotify

Songs about travel inspiration & wanderlust.

The songs in this section are sure to stoke your wanderlust, leaving you with the urge to “ see the world ” and travel to “ the ends of the earth “! If you’re planning a trip, setting off on a new adventure, or just dreaming of future travels, you are sure to find some lyrics you relate to from the songs below.

As we packed up our lives in Virginia and planned to become full-time nomads, we found ourselves relating to Rob Baird’s “Fade Away”. We were certainly packing our “ bags a little heavy this time” , with no immediate plans to return to the place that we had always called home, but we were so “ ready for the big ol’ world ” and the pain of leaving home was overshadowed by our urge to explore!

• See the World | Caamp
• Vagabond | Caamp
• Never Come Back Again | Austin Plaine
• As We Ran | National Parks
• Sprawl II | Will Daily
• 7 Wonders | Jon Robert Hall
• Mason-Dixon Line | Judah & the Lion
• Only the Wild Ones | DISPATCH
• Next to You | John Vincent III
• See the World | Brett Dennen
• Free | Zac Brown Band
• Starting Over | Chris Stapleton
• Traveller | Chris Stapleton
• Nomads | John Craigie
• Hopeless Wanderer | Mumford & Sons
• Ends of the Earth | Lord Huron
• Ba Ba Ra | The National Parks
• Wildflowers | Trampled by Turtles
• I’ve Been Everywhere | Johnny Cash
• Castaway | Zac Brown Band
• The Life You Chose | Jason Isbell
• Mountain Song | Little Chief
• Sleep on the Floor | The Lumineers
• Fade Away | Rob Baird
• Borderlines | Hollow Coves
• Wherever I Go | The National Parks
• Middle of Nowhere | Vancouver Sleep Clinic
• Open Road | Roo Panes
• Woodland | The Paper Kites
• Yellow Eyes | Rayland Baxter
• Wild + Free | Andrew Simple
• Every Mile | Layup

Songs about the outdoors & nature

The songs in this section are inspired by adventure in the great outdoors and the beauty of the world around us. These songs will make you want to hit the trails, climb that mountain, go on a camping trip or just inspire you to get outdoors.

Perhaps my favorite song on this list, “Blue Above the Green” by Mike Edel perfectly captures that feeling you get when you’ve reached the summit after hiking up a mountain. When you look up, all you can see is green leaves and blue sky. If you’re a hiker, this may become your new favorite song!

• Blue Above the Green | Mike Edel
• Specks | Matt Pond PA
• Mountain Sound | Of Monsters and Men
• Painted Sky | The National Parks
• Coastline | Hollow Coves
• Mountains | Jess Taylor
• To the Mountains | Lizzy McAlpine
• Meet Me in the Woods | Lord Huron
• Mighty Mountains | National Park Radio
• The Woods | Hollow Coves
• Wildflower | The National Parks
• Old Pine | Ben Howard
• The River | Good Old War
• These Mountains | Sunday Best

This section includes songs about traveling on the road! From Willie Nelson’s classic “On the Road Again” to lesser-known gems like National Park’s Radio’s “The Road Ahead”, these songs will make you want to pack a bag, “fill the car with gasoline” and hit the road.

Hollow Coves’ song “The Open Road” perfectly describes the urge to travel, when you’ve been feeling stuck in your hometown for too long and you just “ miss the way it feels to roam “, that feeling of freedom that the open road ahead of you brings, as every twist and turn brings the possibility for new adventure.

If you’re planning a road trip, add this song to your travel playlist and you’ll be listening on repeat as your “ troubles fade away “!

• America | Austin Plaine
• All the Debts I Owe | Caamp
• On the Road Again | Willie Nelson
• Heads Carolina, Tails California | Jo Dee Messina
• The Open Road | Hollow Coves
• Life is Good on the Open Road | Trampled by Turtles
• The Road Ahead | National Park Radio
• Born to Be Wild | Steppenwolf
• Ramblin’ Man | Allman Brothers Band
• Road Runner | Vincent Neil Emerson
• Lost, Scared & Tired | Jared & The Mill

These songs about specific locations will make you want to travel to new places and seek out somewhere new to explore!

Maybe you’ll be inspired by the “ red sandstone ” landscapes in Sedona, set “ off to Colorado ” to find that “ rocky mountain high “, lay peacefully watching for “ shootin’ stars in Oklahoma “, be enchanted by the mystery of the Marfa Lights as they “ dance across the horizon ” or come “ alive down in New Orleans “. Wherever your travels take you, these songs are sure to add new places to your bucket list!

During our 2021 road trip , we absolutely fell in love with Idaho (so much so that we ended up buying a piece of land…), and we played Yonder Mountain String Band’s song Idaho on repeat as we road tripped from Idaho Falls to the Sawtooth Mountains. This Bluegrass tune truly captures the beauty of state! Add it your playlist and you may just find yourself planning a trip to Idaho…

• Oklahoma Stars | Turnpike Troubadours
• Wyoming | Family & Friends
• Stockholm | Judah & the Lion
• New Orleans | Parachute
• Colorado | CHAPPY
• Sedona | Houndsmouth
• Shenandoah | Trampled by Turtles
• Morocco | Moon Taxi
• Ohio | Caamp
• Colorado | Alex Gunthrie
• Carolina | Corey Smith
• Idaho | Yonder Mountain String Band
• Rocky Mountain High | John Denver
• Alabama Pines | Jason Isbell
• Marfa Lights | Kaitlin Butts

About the artists

We love all the artists and bands on this list, but we wanted to highlight a few of our favorites.

When I find a new artist that I love, I can listen to their songs on repeat for hours. This is Caamp for me! We started listening to their songs on our first cross country road trip and then went to a Caamp concert and we’ve been hooked ever since!

Evan Westfall, Taylor Meier and Matt Vinson make up the trio behind this American Folk band originally from Ohio. Caamp released their first album in 2016 and has been gaining popularity ever since. Many of their songs are about nature, being outdoors, and traveling, which is part of why we love them so much!

The National Parks

Songs from The National Parks take up several spots on our list of the best 72 songs about travel and adventure! This Indie folk/pop band formed in Provo, Utah consists of 4 members, Brady Parks, Sydney Macfarlane, Cam Brannelly and Megan Taylor Parks. They released their first single in 2013 and have since released four albums, “Wildflowers”, “Places”, “Until I Live”, and “Young”.

The National Parks songs have many songs about the beauty of the world around us, from the peaks of the Grand Tetons to the “painted sky” of the desert in the southwest. In fact, their single “As We Ran” was written for a short documentary by REI called “ Love in the Tetons” .

Hollow Coves

Another group that takes up a few spots on our list of songs about travel and adventure is Hollow Coves, an Australian Indie band led by sing-songwriters,  Ryan Henderson and Matt Carins.

The band’s earthy folk songs are inspired by the singers’ own travels, and their passion for seeing the world shines through in their music. In fact, their first album released in 2017 was titled ‘Wanderlust”, and includes several of the songs on our list, such as “Coastline” and “The Woods.”

Other useful resources

Planning a road trip or a new adventure? We think you may find some inspiration and useful information here:

• Travel tips | 11 Proven Tips for Road Tripping with a Cat
• Road trip| Complete List of Road Trip Camping Essentials
• Road trip | 27 Highlights of Our Life on the Road in 2021
• Southwestern USA | The Ultimate 1 Week Arizona and Southern Utah Road Trip
• Wyoming | 18 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park

What are your favorite songs about travel and adventure?! What songs would you add to the list? Let us know what you think of our playlist – we would love to hear from you!

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Sarah Vaughan

Hello! I'm Sarah, one half of the couple behind Two Outliers! In 2023, I quit my job as a Data Scientist to travel around the world on an epic 15-month journey in search of the world's greatest hikes and outdoor adventures. Matt and I started Two Outliers in 2021 as a place for visitors to find concise, accurate, and honest information to plan their own adventures. We hope our experiences inspire you to hit the trail! Happy Hiking! Sarah

Josh Sanders · February 9, 2022 at 10:00 pm

Wow an amazing list and photo!

twooutliers · February 10, 2022 at 8:12 am

thank you! we love this playlist, enjoy!

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29 Songs about Traveling and Adventure – The Perfect Road Trip Songs (Plus: Songs during Covid-19)

Traveling videos are filled with epic, memorable travel songs. They glorify the trip. And let’s be honest, everyone plays once in a while the favorite song in the head while traveling the world.

This list is dedicated to songs about traveling and backpacking. Every single song is written with the wanderlust-mindset.

We created one more article dedicated to travel music. Listen to 31 best travel songs we play over and over.

We also recently discovered an incredible Road trip on Spotify. If you use it, check this Road trip playlist now .

BUT… This collection of 29 songs about traveling is something special and differe

And if you’re interested in more travel quotes, you can check out these good reads.

• funny travel quotes
• travel quotes for friends
• best adventure quotes

Or if you haven’t placed a bio on Instagram, here are amazing bios you can check this out.

My favorite song is #28 . So keep scrolling and give it a play . At the end of this list, you will find now as well songs to keep you motivated during the Covid-19 Crisis. These are also songs about and for travelers, but being stuck at home.

Let’s start with a bit Traveling Wilburys, these guys know how to make your trip more pleasant with a song.

1. Traveling Wilburys – End Of The Line

Well it’s all right, riding around in the breeze Well it’s all right if you live the life you please Well it’s all right, doing the best you can Well it’s all right, as long as you lend a hand

You can sit around and wait for the phone to ring (End of the Line) Waiting for someone to tell you everything (End of the Line) Sit around and wonder what tomorrow will bring (End of the Line) Maybe a diamond ring

2. A Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton

If I could fall into the sky Do you think time would pass me by? ‘Cause you know I’d walk a thousand miles If I could just see you tonight

It’s always times like these When I think of you And I wonder if you ever think of me ‘Cause everything’s so wrong And I don’t belong Living in your precious memory

‘Cause I need you And I miss you And now I wonder

3. Kongos – Traveling On

So long my friend, my foe, my love, my pain The road’s calling out my name Dreaming of La Boheme Maybe I’ll go to Barbizon Or see a girl before she catches cold and she’s gone Or maybe I’ll just travel on Travel on

So long my flame, my warmth, my fear, my fight The road’s calling again tonight Dreaming under street lights Maybe I’ll catch a train to Rome See the world until I can’t go on Then maybe I’ll come traveling home

4. Travelling – Paper Lions

Travelling the road, last known is where I want to be My compass directing, electing, an open road with golden trees But there’s an old man in need on the ground, I try not to make a sound He holds out his hand as I walk away, I hear him say

Please don’t be a stranger in my place Traveling come to a tavern for a momentary rest I see the old man that I passed on the road in his distress As I turned to go I can hear him say, “Son, stay. Have a drink, I’ll pay.”

5. Peter, Paul, and Mary – Leaving on a Jet Plane.

So kiss me and smile for me Tell me that you’ll wait for me Hold me like you’ll never let me go

I’m leavin’ on a jet plane I don’t know when I’ll be back again Oh babe, I hate to go

Now the time has come to leave you One more time let me kiss you Then close your eyes, I’ll be on my way

Dream about the days to come When I won’t have to leave alone About the time, I won’t have to say

6. John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads

Almost heaven, West Virginia, Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River. Life is old there, older than the trees, younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze.

Country roads, take me home to the place I belong. West Virginia, mountain mamma, take me home, country roads.

All my memories gather round her, miner’s lady, stranger to blue water. Dark and dusty, painted on the sky, misty taste of moonshine, teardrop in my eye.

7. Passenger – Travelling Alone

This song is a very special one. It is about an old man traveling the world – missing his passed wife.

I included the video where Passenger explains the story behind the traveling song.

Australian man, Scandinavian tan, Kicking stones round a square. Sat for a while and carved out a smile, As if someone would care.

Said I’m a long way from the Gold Coast. Furthest I’ve ever known, Oh and this just ain’t my home. It was my wife’s idea, but she’s no longer here. She left me travelling alone.

I never heard silence ring out like a bell. I never heard silence like last night in my expensive hotel. Well, I’m loving a shadow, I’m trying to catch the rain. But I never heard silence ’til I heard it today.

She walked out of the hotel, I could still smell the smoke of the burning heart left inside. She said men are all assholes And life’s a bad joke. She laughed and started to cry.

This is the full song and the official video:

8. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man 1961

I’m a travelin’ man Made a lot of stops all over the world And in every port I own the heart Of at least one lovely girl

I’ve a pretty Seniorita waiting for me Down in old Mexico If you’re ever in Alaska stop and see My cute little Eskimo

Oh, my sweet Fraulien down in Berlin town Makes my heart start to yearn And my China doll down in old Hong Kong Waits for my return

Pretty Polynesian baby, over the sea I remember the night When we walked in the sand of Waikiki And I held you, oh, so tight

9. BUDAPEST – George Ezra

My house in Budapest My, my hidden treasure chest Golden grand piano My beautiful Castillo

You Ooh, you Ooh, I’d leave it all

My acres of a land That I’ve achieved It may be hard for you to Stop and believe

10. Bright Eyes “First Day Of My Life”

This is the first day of my life Swear I was born right in the doorway I went out in the rain, suddenly everything changed They’re spreading blankets on the beach

Yours was the first face that I saw I think I was blind before I met you I don’t know where I am, I don’t know where I’ve been But I know where I want to go

And so I’d thought I’d let you know That these things take forever, I especially am slow But I realized that need you And I wondered if I could come home

11. Blaumut – Vent que mou el temps

T’imagino cap per avall, amb les cames a una branca i el teu cos, que es va gronxant, mentre cauen pensaments que es desprenen amb la força d’un got d’aigua a l’inrevés.

Un, dos, tres…, són les últimes gotes, i res més. Tres, dos, un…, s’evaporen i s’enfilen cap amunt, amunt, amunt, van tan amunt…

Que l’aire es torna vent, vent que mou el temps, temps que passa ràpid i fa empentes al present, present damunt del cap i el cap massa ocupat a no deixar-se res a les butxaques del passat. Vent que mou el temps.

12. Alvaro Soler – El Mismo Sol

Te digo claro claro No es nada raro raro Así se puede amor Un mundo enano enano Estamos mano a mano Solo hace falta el amor Se puede amor Yo quiero que este sea el mundo que conteste Del este hasta oeste Y bajo el mismo sol Ahora nos vamos Sí juntos celebramos Aquí todos estamos bajo el mismo sol Y bajo el mismo sol

13. Matt Simons – Catch & Release

There’s a place I go to Where no one knows me It’s not lonely It’s a necessary thing It’s a place I made up Find out what I’m made of The nights are stayed up Counting stars and fighting sleep Let it wash over me Ready to lose my feet

Take me on to the place where one reviews life’s mistery Steady on down the line Lose every sense of time Take it all in and wake up that small part of me Day to day I’m blind to see And find how far To go

Everybody got their reason Everybody got their way We’re just catching and releasing What builds up throughout the day

14. Ed Sheeran ft. Kygo – Running Away

I’ve known it for a long time Daddy wakes up to a drink at nine Disappearing all night I don’t wanna know where he’s been lying I know what I wanna do Wanna run away, run away with you Gonna grab clothes, six in the morning go

How long you leaving? Well, dad, just don’t expect me back this evening Oh, it could take a bit of time to heal this It’s been a long day, thumb on side of the roadway, but

I love him from my skin to my bones But I don’t wanna live in his home There’s nothing to say ’cause he knows I’ll just run away and be on my own

I’ve never seen my dad cry Cold as stone in the kitchen light I’ll tell you it’s about time But I was raised to keep quiet This is what I’m gonna do Gonna run away, gonna make that move Gonna grab clothes and when it’s morning go How long you leaving? Well, dad, just don’t expect me back this evening Oh, it could take a bit of time to heal this It’s been a long day, thumb on side of the roadway, but

15. American Authors – What We Live For

This is what I live for Baby, you’re my open road You can take me anywhere the wind blows Right into the great unknown We can throw our hands up out the window This is what we live for We look up at the stars, a perfect night to dream with you Got nineties retro on the radio, our favorite tune I put the pedal to the metal just to laugh with you It’s interstellar when it’s just us two

16. Tom Walker – Fly Away With Me

I’m strummin on the corner About to catch the last train home I’ll have to jump the barriers So can you spare a penny for my thoughts I’ve been praised upon the pavements Passers by don’t pay much Chased away by neighbours Seen things you couldnt make up If the streets could talk they’d tell a story or two I’ll paint a picture for you

I can tell you what it feels like To lose your home on a cold night Can you see the blood in my red eyes Have another total forget life So come on fly away with me To a place where we could be anyone we wanna be And we can bottle up our fears Grow a taste so sweet, knock us off our feet and more Burn our troubles Inhale them all Paint our future on a fractured wall So come on fly away with me To a place where we can be anyone we wanna be

17. Epic Road Trip Acoustic/Folk/Indie Compilation – Summer 2017 (1-Hour Playlist) #3

18. Summer Drive Playlist (INDIE/POP/ALTERNATIVE MUSIC)

19. Daft Punk – Around The World

Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world

20. Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc.

City’s breaking down on a camel’s back They just have to go ‘cause they don’t know whack So all you fill the streets, it’s appealin’ to see You won’t get out the county ‘cause you’re bad and free You got a new horizon, it’s ephemeral style A melancholy town where we never smile And all I wanna hear is the message beep

21. Ed Sheeran – Castle On The Hill

When I was six years old I broke my leg I was running from my brother and his friends And tasted the sweet perfume of the mountain grass I rolled down I was younger then, take me back to when I

Found my heart and broke it here Made friends and lost them through the years And I’ve not seen the roaring fields in so long, I know I’ve grown But I can’t wait to go home

I’m on my way Driving at ninety down those country lanes Singing to “Tiny Dancer” And I miss the way you make me feel, and it’s real We watched the sunset over the castle on the hill

22. CHANGE by Some Poetries

As long as I turn my face into the light

I leave dark things behind

It feels like

I’m alive, I’m alive, I’m alive for the first time

Just because we found each other

Just because we cross dark ways

Just because of the pretty face

23. Our Adventure (EP) – The Long Valley

We found this travel music by chance.

We were looking for the most beautiful cities to visit in France, when we came across this video.

This video has the background music of “The Long Valley” “Our Adventure”.

24. Asaf Avidan – One day / Reckoning Song

One day baby, we’ll be old Oh baby, we’ll be old And think of all the stories that we could have told One day baby, we’ll be old

Oh baby, we’ll be old And think of all the stories that we could have told

No more tears, my heart is dry I don’t laugh and I don’t cry I don’t think about you all the time But when I do, I wonder why

25. Part-Time Friends – Here We Are

Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control Here we are Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control Here we are Silence Et si les vagues éteignent nos âmes Dans l’étourdissant vacarme Here we are Dansent les milles visages Dans ce si beau mirage Here we are Je t’emmène une dernière fois suivre cette lumière qui ne s’éteint pas Here we are Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control Here we are Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control Here we are

26. Jose Gonzalez – Step Out (from the movie The Secret Life of Walter Mitty)

Dark as night, let the lightning guide you

Time to step outside, time to step outside Time to step outside you

House on fire, leave it all behind you. Living life, feeding appetites. Stayed through every hard stop, every go. Being bland Breathing half the time. House on fire, leave it all behind you. Dark as night, let the lightning guide you

27. Coldplay – Gravity

Baby It’s been a long time coming Such a long, long time And I can’t stop running Such a long, long time Can you hear my heart beating? Can you hear that sound? ‘Cause I can’t help thinking And I won’t stop now And then I looked up at the sun

And I could see Oh, the way that gravity pulls on you and me And then I looked up at the sky And saw the sun And the way that gravity pushes on everyone On everyone

28. Imagine Dragons – Not Today from ME BEFORE YOU

There she goes in front of me Take my life and set me free again We’ll make a memory out of it Holy road is at my back Don’t look on, take me back again We’ll make a memory out of it We finally fall apart and we break each other’s hearts If we wanna live young, love, we better start today It’s gotta get easier, oh easier somehow ‘Cause I’m falling, I’m falling Oh easier and easier somehow Oh I’m calling, I’m calling And it isn’t over, unless it is over I don’t wanna wait for that It’s gotta get easier and easier somehow But not today Not today

29. Alkey – Travel of life

30. On Top Of The World by Imagine Dragons

‘Cause I’m on top of the world, ‘ey I’m on top of the world, ‘ey Waiting on this for a while now Paying my dues to the dirt I’ve been waiting to smile, ‘ey Been holding it in for a while, ‘ey Take it with me if I can Been dreaming of this since a child I’m on top of the world

I’ve tried to cut these corners Try to take the easy way out I kept on falling short of something

I could gave up then but Then again I couldn’t have ’cause

Covid-19 Travel Songs

It is indeed tough times; for pretty much all of us. We extended this list for  favorite songs you can listen to when you are stuck at home due to lock-downs and restrictions.

O “Fly On” – Coldplay

A flock of birds Hovering above Just a flock of birds That’s how you think of love

And I always Look up to the sky Pray before the dawn ‘Cause they fly always Sometimes they arrive Sometimes they are gone

They fly on A flock of birds Hovering above Into smoke I’m turned and rise Following them up Still I always

Look up to the sky Pray before the dawn ‘Cause they fly always One minute they arrive

It’s Time – Imagine Dragons

So, this is what you meant? When you said that you were spent And now it’s time to build from the bottom of the pit Right to the top

Don’t hold back Packing my bags and giving the academy a rain check I don’t ever wanna let you down I don’t ever wanna leave this town ‘Cause after all

This city never sleeps at night It’s time to begin, isn’t it? I get a little bit bigger, but then I’ll admit I’m just the same as I was

Now don’t you understand That I’m never changing who I am So this is where you fell And I am left to sell The path to heaven runs through miles of clouded hell

Right to the top Don’t look back Turning to rags and giving the commodities a rain check

Dani Martin – Cero (Spanish Song)

All what we saw has gone I dreamed that always I’d go by side That what we invented it’s not anymore Now just exists past

And it’s time for me to understand What I do with your hugs Now it’s time to learn How to stop loving To know how to erase it well And how It comes it gone That today it’s ZERO

I want That everything starts all over again That everything turn back That everything comes from Zero From zero

And I want that everything sounds again That everything shines again That everything comes from zero From zero

Original Lyrics in Spanish:

Quiero… Que todo vuelva a empezar Que todo vuelva a girar Que todo venga de cero De cero

Y quiero que todo vuelva a sonar Que todo vuelva a brillar Que todo venga de cero De cero

Queen – We Are The Champions

I’ve paid my dues Time after time I’ve done my sentence But committed no crime

And bad mistakes I’ve made a few I’ve had my share of sand Kicked in my face But I’ve come through And we mean to go on and on and on and on We are the champions, my friends And we’ll keep on fighting till the end

We are the champions We are the champions No time for losers ‘Cause we are the champions of the World

Skylar Grey – Coming Home

Summary: Travel Music for your Road Trip

I hope this list ultimate travel playlist gave you a great boost of wanderlust while you are road-tripping, getting to your holiday destination, or simply dreaming about traveling again.

The world of music is rich with songs about travel and adventure. Popular songs about traveling, whether they are modern compositions or classics, often have a way of evoking the thrill and beauty of discovering new places. These songs may have subtle travel references in the lyrics or might revolve entirely around the theme of journeying.

For those seeking a romantic aspect, there are songs about traveling with your love, which make perfect soundtracks for couples’ road trips or backpacking adventures.

Moreover, various genres depict this universal theme, from the narrative tales in country songs about traveling to the rhythmic beats and poetic expressions in hip-hop travel songs.

Not to be left out, rock songs about traveling often capture the raw energy and freedom associated with hitting the road.

Each genre brings a unique perspective to traveling, yet all share the universal message of the transformative power of journeys.

You can also listen to the 31 best travel songs about Wanderlust we found.

Or maybe have a good read of these inspiring travel quotes and captions to match Instagram photos and WhatsApp statuses.

• 499 best Instagram captions of all time
• 131 Tasty Food Quotes Perfect As Instagram Captions
• 119 cool quotes for WhatsApp
• How to rent a car in Europe? A simple solution
• the best travel quotes and photos you can copy-paste
• more funny Instagram captions

Safe travels!

Pin it for later.

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I love listening to travel songs, thanks for sharing the songs.

You left out Allman Bros, Rambling Man… Just Sayin’ …

Nice add-on, Rick 😉 Thanks!

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65 Songs About Travel & Adventure For The Ultimate Wanderlust Playlist

Add these songs to your travel playlist to fuel your wanderlust..

Last updated on Jun 28, 2023

There's nothing better than having music in your life that encompasses what you are doing or how you are feeling. And what better time to have music explain your feelings than on vacation?

Whether you're looking for the perfect songs to accompany your travel videos or are putting together a playlist for your vacation, these songs about traveling will fuel your wanderlust and set the tone for adventure.

65 Best Songs About Wanderlust, Travel & Adventure

1. "go your own way" by fleetwood mac.

If you haven't heard this song before, it will likely become your favorite travel song. It's one of those travel songs that's infused with the best travel tips: go your own way.

RELATED: 7 Reasons People Who Travel A Lot Are More Likely To Be Successful

2. "Leaving On A Jet Plane" by Peter, Paul, and Mary

You can listen to music while traveling by downloading songs to your phone. If you're traveling by plane, this song will definitely set the mood for you. John Denver also has a popular recording of it.

3. "On The Road Again" by Willie Nelson

This song is absolutely perfect for road trips . Pump up the music and sing along with your friends.

4. "Come Sail Away" by Styx

You don't have to be literally sailing away for this song to resonate. Sailing away, metaphorically speaking, can represent leaving home to jump into the unknown.

5. "Road To Nowhere" by Talking Heads

This is a great song to rock out to when you're traveling to a new destination for the foreseeable future. When moving, you might have to wrestle with a lot of bittersweet, complex emotions. This song is perfect for coping with those changes.

6. "Midnight Train To Georgia" by Gladys Knight & The Pips

This Grammy Award-winning song is about traveling from L.A. to Georgia on a train that departs at midnight.

7. "Travelin’ Man" by Ricky Nelson

Or a traveling woman, or traveling person, of course. This song is quite literally about traveling, so it will be perfect for any travel-themed playlist.

8. "Homeward Bound" by Simon & Garfunkel

Ever wanted to travel so you could avoid home? This song is about leaving home and constantly being reminded of it.

9. "Send Me On My Way" by Rusted Root

This is a song about moving forward in life — but being happy and hopeful about it.

10. "Life Is A Highway" by Rascal Flatts

"Life Is A Highway" is a metaphor for living life to the fullest and taking big risks.

RELATED: The Best Road Trip Songs To Sing (& Rock Out To) While Driving

11. "Space Oddity" by David Bowie

"Space Oddity" came out the same year that astronauts landed on the moon: 1969.

12. "Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman

If you're driving down the road in a fast car — or even a slow one — this song will be perfect for your travel playlist.

13. "Orinoco Flow" by Enya

In this song, the narrator fantasizes about sailing away and traveling the world.

14. "See The World" by the Kooks

Want to see the world? Turn this song up to the full blast.

15. "Road Trippin'" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers

This song is perfect for your road trip playlist, as it is all about going on a road trip.

16. "Hot Fun in the Summertime" by Sly & The Family Stone

Nothing screams summer vacation like hot fun summertime.

17. "Malibu" by Kim Petras

"Malibu" is such a good vacation song. It's perfect for relaxing and chilling by the beach.

18. "Island in the Sun" by Weezer

"Island in the Sun" is all about sailing away to a fantasy beach. If only escaping your problems could be so easy.

19. "Surfin’ USA" by The Beach Boys

The music was based on “Sweet Little Sixteen” by Chuck Berry. This song covers all of the best surfing locations in the United States.

20. "California Gurls" by Katy Perry ft. Snoop Dogg

California Girls — they're undeniable! If you've ever been — or lived — in California, it might not ring true. But it definitely covers all of the California stereotypes that potential tourists might assume are accurate.

21. "School’s Out" by Alice Cooper

Nothing better than the end of the school year! What's more fun than celebrating the beginning of summer with a little Alice Cooper?

22. "Don’t Worry, Be Happy" by Bob Marley

This carefree song will perfectly put your work-life woes on pause. Close your eyes, take a breath, listen to this song, and enjoy yourself.

RELATED: What Traveling The World For 450 Days Taught Me About Relationships

23. "Soak Up The Sun" by Sheryl Crow

Traveling to a sunny place? This song is perfect for listening to by the pool or beach.

24. "Vacation" by The Go-Go's

What better way to celebrate your vacation than with a song that's literally called "Vacation"?

25. "It's Nice To Go Trav'ling" by Frank Sinatra

It's nice to go traveling, don't you think? Rocking out to this song is the best way to enjoy your travels.

26. "Meet the Parents" by Kim Petras

In this song, Kim Petras sings about taking someone to the beach, Paris, Miami, and New York.

27. "Galway Girl" by Ed Sheeran

The song is about a narrator that falls in love with a girl from Galway, Ireland.

28. "New York, I Love You" by LCD Soundsystem

What better way to embrace the Big Apple than with this song? Though it's about contradictions and a love/hate relationship with New York City, it's a reminder for anyone traveling that this city has a lot of heart.

29. "Night in Bangkok" by Murray Head

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, and this song is great for traveling, as it describes what a literal night in Bangkok looks like.

30. "Free Man In Paris" by Joni Mitchell

Ever been to Paris? Ever been to Paris listening to this song? It's perfect for the first or next time your plane lands there.

31. "Paris, Tokyo" by Lupe Fiasco

Lupe Fiasco said he wrote this song because he loves Paris and Tokyo!

32. "American Boy" by Estelle ft. Kanye West

In this song, one of the narrators asks the other to take her to New York and L.A. And if either of those locations is your destination, you can rock out to this jam on the way there.

33. "Destination Calabria" by Alex Gaudino ft. Crystal Waters

This song is about leaving home without a plan set in stone.

RELATED: 5 Liberating Reasons Why You Should Consider Traveling By Yourself

34. "Havana" by Camila Cabello

Camila Cabello is from Havana, so who better to sing a song about this beautiful city than a native?

35. "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Whether you're visiting Alabama or just love the tune, it's a great song about never forgetting your roots.

36. "A Thousand Miles" by Vanessa Carlton

"A Thousand Miles" is a fun travel song, especially if you're traveling a thousand miles (or more!) away from home.

37. "I’ve Been Everywhere" by Johnny Cash

This song is great if you've been traveling all over the place and is known to inspire wanderlust in anyone who listens.

38. "Everywhere" by Fleetwood Mac

Though "Everywhere" may not be about travel specifically, it conveys the lovely feeling of being anywhere in the world with your love by your side.

39. "Roam" by the B52s

This song invites you to explore the world, wherever you want, whenever.

40. "My Traveling Star" by James Taylor

"My Traveling Star" explores the tension between home and the road.

41. "Come Away With Me" by Norah Jones

This song is all about asking someone to leave with you.

42. "Shut Up and Drive" by Rihanna

Definitely consider adding this to your road trip playlist, especially if the driver talks too much.

43. "The Long Way Around" by The Chicks

Any song by The Chicks will suffice for your road trip blues.

RELATED: 75 Happy Songs To Make You Smile & Feel Good

44. "Route 66" by Nat King Cole

Route 66 is one of the most famous routes in the United States. So if you're planning to drive the entire 2,000-mile stretch, consider adding this one to your wanderlust playlist.

45. "I Left My Heart In San Francisco" by Tony Bennett

This is the perfect song when moving feels more bittersweet than sweet.

46. "Montego Bay" by Amazulu

Montego Bay is Jamaica's third most populous city, and this song is all about relaxing.

47. "Proud Mary" by Tina Turner

Originally performed by Creedence Clearwater Revival, this song is about a steamboat traveling up and down the river. But its deeper meaning has an encouraging message to appreciate the simple things in life outside of bills and work.

48. "On Top of The World" by Imagine Dragons

This song is all about moving forward and letting go of the past . It's an anthem that radiates positivity, and its upbeat energy and empowering message of triumph make it a perfect choice for a road trip or adventure.

49. "I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)" by The Proclaimers

This song is perfect for road trips. It's one of those songs that everyone loves to sing along to in a car.

50. "Runaway" by Kanye West

This song is perfect for any trip, especially if you're traveling to get away from your problems.

51. Bruno Mars TikTok Song

This Bruno Mars remix is a staple for travel TikTokers.

52. TikTok Snapping Song

Transition your travel videos with a snap with this song in the background for a cool effect.

53. "Sunny Day" by Ted Fresco

This upbeat song adds a fun, lighthearted mood to your travel videos or wanderlust playlist.

54. "Vacation" by The Dirty Heads

This has quickly become the ultimate vacation video song thanks to TikTok.

55. "Paradise" by Bazzi

Show everyone a piece of your own paradise with this wanderlust song.

56. "Knee Deep" by The Zac Brown Band ft. Jimmy Buffet

An ultimate vacation goal is what this song represents. The Zac Brown Band and Jimmy Buffet paint a picture of a peaceful oceanfront property and not worrying about anything.

RELATED: Why I Travel To Cure My Broken Heart

57. "Empire State of Mind" by Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys

Anyone going to New York City will be inspired by the glamorous and freeing descriptions of the concrete jungle.

58. "Traveling Alone" by Passenger

The song discusses wanting to travel all over, even if you're alone. So, if you have wanderlust this song is right up your alley.

59. "Down Under" by Men at Work

This classic 80s hit is all about how amazing Australia is. Once you hear it, you'll definitely want to visit the land down under.

60. "Guaranteed" by Eddie Vedder

This song was written for the film "Into The Wild" and won a Golden Globe. Why not add an award-winning hit to your playlist?

61. "Vienna" by Billy Joel

"Vienna" by Billy Joel discusses the importance of slowing down in life and enjoying the moment. It reminds us to take a break and smell the flowers.

62. "Born To Be Wild" by Steppenwolf

If you love riding along the open road, this song is for you. Originally recorded in 1968, it was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

63. "Graceland" by Paul Simon

This recording is a timeless masterpiece that has a vibrant and uplifting musical journey. Its introspective lyrics capture the essence of growth and exploration.

64. "Come Fly With Me" by Frank Sinatra

"Come Fly With Me" was written specifically for Frank Sinatra, and is a romantic song where Sinatra invites listeners to visit exotic places with him, like Peru and Bombay.

65. "Travelin Band" by Creedence Clearwater Revival

This is a high-energy rock and roll classic that captivates listeners with its infectious rhythm and spirited guitar riffs. You have to tap your feet when you hear it!

RELATED: 35 Best Songs About Life To Keep You Motivated On Your Journey

Izzy Casey is a freelance writer, former YourTango writer and associate editor, and copy editor who received her MFA in Poetry from the Iowa Writers' Workshop. Her work has been published in Corriere della Sera, The Iowa Review, Bennington Review, Gulf Coast, Black Warrior Review, BOATT, NY Tyrant, and elsewhere.

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These 21 Songs About Adventure Will Get You Pumped for Your Next Trip

There's nothing like packing for a trip with an epic adventure playlist sounding off in the background. Add these to your travel playlist and get ready to explore!

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• Team Gravel

There's nothing like packing for a trip with an epic adventure playlist sounding off in the background.

Whether you're headed on a cruise, road trip, or hiking expedition, these 20 songs about adventure will get you pumped in no time.

Add them to your travel playlist and get ready to explore!

1) "Adventure of a Lifetime" by Coldplay

As the title suggests, this song is about taking chances and living life to the fullest. It's a great anthem for anyone who's feeling restless, itching for a new journey, or just looking for great songs about traveling.

2) "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey

There's a reason karaoke enthusiasts love this go-to classic — it's just so darn uplifting! Whether you're a small-town girl, city boy, or anything in between, sometimes you just want to take the midnight train and go anywhere, amirite?

3) "Fly Away" by Lenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz's 1998 jam, "Fly Away," is a perfect fit for this list of travel songs. In it, Kravitz sings about being as free as a bird and going wherever he pleases. The next time you're feeling cooped up, give this tune a listen. It's sure to lift your spirits.

4) "Life Is a Highway" by Tom Cochrane

This rock song about adventure was originally released in 1991 by Tom Cochrane, a Canadian singer-songwriter. It was later covered by Rascal Flatts for the 2006 Disney/Pixar film, "Cars." No matter which version you prefer, both are surefire ways to get you pumped for a road trip.

5) "On the Road Again" by Willie Nelson

Traveling is about going to places you've never been before and seeing things you may never see again. The lyrics to Nelson's country song capture this feeling beautifully. It's sure to get your hands drumming on the steering wheel as you hit the open road.

6) "The Longest Road" by Morgan Page

What makes this electronic dance song about adventure so great? It features singer-songwriter Lissie, whose soaring vocals and carefree lyrics encourage you to "go down the longest road to nowhere." If this doesn't get you boppin' while packing your bags, then we don't know what will!

7) "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" by The Proclaimers

A feel-good song for travel lovers, "I'm Gonna Be" is an ode to going the distance. But you don't have to be in a long-distance relationship to appreciate this catchy tune's sentiment. Cue it up when you're packing your bags or planning your next adventure.

8) "Ready to Go" by Republica

Another '90s tune, this upbeat dance track earns its place on our list of the best travel songs. It's about being young and carefree, with a sense of wanderlust that can't be denied. It'll have you shouting from the rooftops, "Baby, I'm ready to go!"

9) "Orinoco Flow" by Enya

Are you preparing to go on a cruise or some other maritime journey? If so, this New Age song about adventure will encourage you to "sail away" and explore the world. From Peru to Cebu, Enya will get you in the mood.

10) "Where the Streets Have No Name" by U2

U2's 1987 album, "The Joshua Tree," spawned hits like "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" and "With or Without You." But the lead-off track, "Where the Streets Have No Name," stands out for its anthemic sound and Edge's signature, delay-drenched guitar. It also shows that some streets, like the ones in this location , don't have names at all.

11) "Two Tickets to Paradise" by Eddie Money

Eddie Money's smash '80s hit, "Take Me Home Tonight," may have eclipsed this song about traveling, but "Two Tickets to Paradise" is a close second. This 1978 ditty is about taking a much-needed vacation to get away from the daily grind. The lyrics say it all: "Won't you pack your bags, we'll leave tonight."

12) "Around the World" by Daft Punk

You have to love a song about adventure whose entire lyrics are simply "around the world, around the world" for more than seven minutes. This shiny-helmet-wearing, French house music duo knows how to get people moving, and this song is no exception. Add it to your travel playlist stat.

13) "Sand in My Shoes" by Dido

They say art imitates life, and this adventure song is living proof. British songstress, Dido, penned this tune for her second studio album, "Life for Rent," after a personal event brought her beach vacation to an abrupt end. She literally had sand in her shoes while racing to catch a flight to Los Angeles. The song captures the bittersweet nostalgia of leaving paradise and returning to reality. Still, it's an upbeat tune that will make you look forward to your next exotic getaway.

14) "Roam" by the B-52s

Of course, a list of travel songs wouldn't be complete without a nod to the B-52s and their hit song, "Roam." This party classic is about exploring the world with your besties by your side. So, do as the lyrics say: "Take it hip to hip" and "rock it through the wilderness" with your crew.

15) "Africa" by Toto

This song about adventure is one of the most popular tunes of all time. Released in 1982, "Africa" by Toto was an instant hit and has since been used in countless movies and television shows. It's the perfect song to inspire wanderlust, with its beautiful imagery and catchy chorus. So the next time you're feeling the urge to explore, put on this classic tune and let it take you away.

16) "Drive My Car" by the Beatles

This 1965 track from the Fab Four's album, "Rubber Soul," is a great song about traveling that encourages listeners to never stop dreaming. The lyrics are simple yet poignant: "Baby you can drive my car … and maybe I'll love you." Beep-beep, yeah!

17) "Why Does It Always Rain on Me? by Travis

Fran Healy of the Scottish rock band, Travis, wrote this song while on holiday in Eilat: a dry beach town in the southernmost tip of Israel. According to Healy, he wanted to escape the constant, rainy gloom of Glasgow, only to be greeted by yet more rain during his two-day stint by the sea. Think of it as the go-to consolation song for when your vacation plans don't quite go as expected.

18) "Vacation" by the Go-Go's

There's nothing quite like the excitement of planning a vacation. The Go-Go's capture this feeling perfectly in their 1982 single, "Vacation." Whether you're headed to Cancun or just taking a staycation, this classic song will get your toes tapping and have you daydreaming of sunny shores.

19) "Ruin" by Cat Power

American singer-songwriter, Chan Marshall, also known as Cat Power, delivers a delightful indie song that will transport you to exotic new places. With its infectious rhythm and captivating lyrics, this surprise head-bopper lists Saudia Arabia, Dhaka, Calcutta, Soweto, Mozambique, Istanbul, Rio, Rome, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Taiwan, Great Britain, Belfast, and the deserts of Spain in rapid-fire succession. We challenge you to sing along without getting lost!

20) "I've Been Everywhere" by Johnny Cash

Another tongue-twisting song about adventure, this classic track sees Johnny Cash weaving his way over 90 destinations around the world , totaling more than 100,000 miles. Whether you've been to all the places he mentions or just one, this song is sure to hit a wanderlust nerve.

21) "Volare" by the Gipsy Kings

Last but not least, we have this uplifting travel song from the Gipsy Kings. Originally written in Italian, "Volare" has been translated into multiple languages and covered by many artists throughout the years. Its lyrics tell of a traveler who takes flight on the wings of love and dreams of distant lands far away.

Adventure Travel With Gravel

Need some gear for your next adventure? Check out Gravel's online shop . You can use our toiletry bags , packable blankets , and other travel goodies to become the most intrepid explorer you can be.

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Are we missing any songs about adventure? Let us know your favorites in the comments below. And for more travel tips, be sure to check out the rest of the blog .

Happy adventuring! 🧳 🚗💨🛫 🌍✨

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Life Traveled In Stilettos

Life, travel, adventure, family, and the art of balancing it all, 65 destination and travel-related songs to inspire your next adventure.

There is something magical about the way a certain song can conjure up memories from a great time in our lives. A song can uplift our mood, make us think of someone special, or even capture with beautiful lyrics the emotions we have a hard time explaining to others. But can a song inspire the wanderlust in us to pack our bags and go to the place in its title? We say absolutely yes.

If you are looking to plan your next vacation and need a little inspiration to help you discover a place to go, we’ve put together a list of songs that cover a variety of destinations and travel-related themes.

From the cities of New York (there are a lot of songs written about this amazing city) and Paris, to States like Texas and California (again, lots of songs about this destination), and Countries like Japan and Mexico, we are sure you might just pick out your next vacation destination from our song list. Enjoy exploring this musical journey.

• “Africa” by Toto (1982)
• “Amarillo” by Tony Christie (1971)
• “American Pie” by Don McLean (1971)
• “Amsterdam” by Coldplay (2002)
• “Austin” by Blake Shelton (2001)
• “Big In Japan” by Alphaville (1984)
• “Born In The USA” by Bruce Springsteen (1984)
• “Budapest” by George Ezra (2013)
• “California Dreaming” by The Mamas & The Papas (1965)
• “California Gurls” by Katy Perry ft. Snoop (2010),
• “California Love” by 2Pac ft. Dr. Dre (1995)
• “Carolina In My Mind” by James Taylor (1969)
• “Chicago” by Frank Sinatra (1957)
• “Copenhagen” by Scott Walker (1967)
• “Deep In The Heart of Texas” by Perry Como (1941)
• “Detroit Rock City” by Kiss (1976)
• “Down Under” by Men At Work (1981)
• “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys (2009)
• “Englishman in New York” by Sting (1987)
• “Gibraltar” by Beirut (2015)
• “Going to California” by Led Zeppelin (1971)
• “Havana” by Camila Cabello ft. Young Thug (2018)
• “Hotel California” by the Eagles (1976)
• “I Left My Heart In San Francisco” by Tony Bennett (1962)
• “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)” by They Might Be Giants (1990)
• “Jerusalem” by Matisyahu (2008)
• “Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin (1975)
• “Kathmandu” by Bob Seger (1975)
• “Kingston Town” by UB40 (1990)
• “King of New York” from the musical Newsies (1992)
• “King of the Road” by Roger Miller (1964)
• “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys (1988)
• “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver (1966)
• “London Bridge” by Fergie (2006)
• “London Calling” by The Clash (1979)
• “Los Angeles” by X (1980)
• “Margaritaville” by Jimmy Buffett (1977)
• “Marrakesh Express” by Crosby, Stills & Nash (1969)
• “Mexico” by James Taylor (1975)
• “Miami” by Will Smith (1998)
• “Miami Vice Theme” by Jan Hammer (1984)
• “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight & The Pips (1973)
• “Moscow” by Dschinghis Khan (2020)
• “New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra (1977)
• “New York State of Mind” by Billy Joel (1976)
• “No Sleep Till Brookyln” by the Beastie Boys (1986)
• “Panama” by Van Halen (1984)
• “Paris” by The Chainsmokers (2017)
• “Rio” by Duran Duran (1982)
• “Rocky Mountain High” by John Denver (1972)
• “San Francisco (Be Sure To Wear Flowers In Your Hair) by Scott McKenzie (1967)
• “St Louis Blues” by Bessie Smith (1929)
• “Streets of London” by Ralph McTell (1969)
• “Streets of Philadelphia” by Bruce Springsteen (1993)
• “Surfin’ U.S.A.” by The Beach Boys (1963)
• “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd (1974)
• “Sweet Home Chicago” by Blues Brothers (1980)
• “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver (1971)
• “Vacation” by the GoGos
• “Ventura Highway” by America
• “Vienna” by Ultravox (1980)
• “Viva Las Vegas” by Elvis Presley (1964)
• “Walking in Memphis” by Marc Cohn (1991)
• “Wichita Lineman” by Glen Campbell (1968)
• “Zanzibar” by Bill Joel (1978)

Let us know what songs you think should have made our list and which song titles have inspired you to explore that destination. As always, be sure to “Like”, “Link”, “Pin”, “Tweet”, or “Share” this article with your friends and family who might need a little travel inspiration.

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55 best songs about traveling & adventure.

I’ve selected the best songs about traveling and adventure, creating a playlist that embodies the spirit of exploration and the joy of discovery.

This article is a musical journey, inviting you to experience the thrill of the open road and the wonders of new horizons through song.

Table of Contents

Top songs about traveling & adventure

• “Vienna” by Billy Joel
• “Africa” by Toto
• “Around the World” by Daft Punk
• “Road Trippin’” by Red Hot Chilli Peppers
• “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root
• “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
• “Come Fly With Me” by Frank Sinatra
• “Big Jet Plane” by Angus & Julia Stone
• “Havana” Camila Cabello
• “California Dreamin’” by The Mamas & the Papas

1.“Vienna” by Billy Joel

“Vienna” is one of Joel’s most streamed songs, gaining popularity in the decades long after its release. 

The piano melody feels nostalgic and comforting, which is in line with the lyrical message.

The lyrics tell the listener to ‘slow down’ and stop worrying about the future, because ‘Vienna’ waits for them. 

2. “Africa” by Toto

“Africa” is an appreciation of African culture and the writer’s love for the continent, with the music video depicting the band in a library, showcasing various African artifacts. 

The song has been certified gold by the RIAA and is Toto’s signature song. 

“Africa” has remained prevalent in pop culture since, appearing on hit shows like Stranger Things, Family Guy and South Park

3. “Around the World” by Daft Punk

“Around the World” comes from French electronic duo Daft Punk.

The song became a hit dance track across the globe. 

The song’s only lyrics are ‘around the world’, which is repeated 144 times. 

NME placed the track at number 21 on its list of the 150 Best Tracks of the Last 15 Years in 2011. 

4. “Road Trippin’” by Red Hot Chilli Peppers

Red Hot Chilli Peppers are an American rock band that formed in the 1980s.

The song was released as a single for their well-known album Californication, however was only released as a single in Australia and Europe. 

The song’s lyrics are about going on a road trip across the USA, loaded with snacks, with their eyes acting as ‘mirrors for the sun’. 

5. “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root

“Send Me On My Way” was originally released for the band’s debut album, Cruel Sun , but was re-recorded for their second album, When I Woke . 

The song was not an immediate success, but was popularized for its use in the soundtracks of Matilda and Ice Age . 

It has more recently been used in the soundtrack for 2021 miniseries, Maid. 

6. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver

John Denver’s signature song is about his appreciation for his home state of West Virginia, with its Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenadoah River. 

The song was successful from its release, having now sold over 1.6 million digital copies.

The lyrics can be interpreted as being about Denver’s time away and his desire to ultimately travel back to his home.  

7. “Come Fly With Me” by Frank Sinatra

“ Come Fly With Me ” was written for Sinatra for his fifteenth album. 

Known for his remarkable dancing ability and considered the most popular performer of the 40s, 50s and 60s, Sinatra was greatly influenced by Bing Crosby. 

The song became part of Sinatra’s concert repertoire, and remains one of his most well-known tunes. 

The lyrics are about the joy of flying in a plane and discovering new destinations. 

8. “Big Jet Plane” by Angus & Julia Stone

Angus and Julia Stone are an Australian folk and pop brother-and-sister musical duo.

Like “Come Fly With Me”, the lyrics are about taking a lover on a plane journey. 

The song peaked at No 21 in the Australian charts and has since been certified platinum. 

9. “Havana” Camila Cabello 

“Havana” is a pop song from Cuban-American singer Camila Cabello, featuring Young Thug. 

Cabello found fame as a member of girl group Fifth Harmony, before starting her career as a solo artist. 

The song’s lyrics are about leaving a lover behind in Havana, the capital of Cuba, which is also Cabello’s birthplace.

The song can also be read as a yearning for a homeland, as Cabello now lives in the US. 

10. “California Dreamin’” by The Mamas & the Papas

“ California Dreamin’ ” was originally recorded by Barry McGuire.

Michelle and John Phillips, who went on to form The Mamas & The Papas, acted as the backing vocals on the original recording.

They released their own version of the song, which is now one of their signature songs. 

The lyrics are about dreaming of California, while being stuck in a colder place and seeing the leaves brown and the season change to winter. 

11. “Road to Nowhere” by Talking Heads

“Road to Nowhere” was released as a single by American rock band Talking Heads in 1985, for their album Little Creatures. 

The lyrics talk about traveling a ‘road to nowhere’, as an allegory for the inevitable journey to doom, death and apocalypse.

It is considered a more hopeful look at death, about enjoying the journey rather than worrying about the final destination.

12. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen

“Born to Run” was Springsteen’s first worldwide single release, although only achieved initial chart success in the US.

The song acts as a love letter to a girl called Wendy, but also has a simpler meaning of ‘getting out of Freehold US Route 9’. 

The lyrics speak about getting out of the ‘trap’ of your small town and seeing the world.

13. “Budapest” by George Ezra

Ezra’s breakout song “Budapest” comes from his debut album, Wanted on Voyage.

The whole album was inspired by a trip that Ezra took around Europe.

Ezra traveled across the continent and wrote about everything he saw and did, claiming that the trip was necessary for him to produce his first album

The song reached No 3 on the UK charts, and has a folky and upbeat feel. 

14. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver

Denver wrote and recorded “Leaving on a Jet Plane” in 1966.

He made several copies and gave them out as Christmas presents, as the lyrics are about the pain of leaving a loved one. 

Aged just 23, Denver apparently wrote the song while waiting at Washington Airport during a layover. 

15. “Traveling Alone” by Passenger

Michael David Rosenburg, known by his stage name Passenger, is an English singer-songwriter and musician. 

The lyrics are about seeing an Australian man that has been traveling alone in Scandinavian, lamenting on the fact that he is a long way from home. 

The song is heartfelt and emotional, conjuring up the feelings of loneliness that can often be felt when traveling away from family and loved ones. 

16. “Catch & Release” by Matt Simons

‘Catch and Release” is a song from American singer-songwriter Matt Simons that became a hit across many countries in Europe.

The lyrics are about wanting to disappear to somewhere else, away from daily life. 

The song was remixed by Dutch house DJ duo Deepend and had better chart success across Europe. 

17. “This Town” by Kygo

Kygo is a Norwegian DJ and producer. 

He has worked on huge singles like “I See Fire”, “Higher Love” and “It Ain’t Me”. 

“This Town” is about wanting to escape your hometown, where all your friends are settling down, and going off to explore the world instead. 

18. “What We Live For” by American Authors

“What We Live For” is a track from American Authors’ 2016 album of the same name.

The song is upbeat and feel-good, about escaping on a road trip with someone and enjoying the journey.

The album debuted at No 60 on the Billboard 200.

The music video shows clips of people having fun at the pool, attending concerts and skateboarding down an open road, capturing the beauty and fun of traveling and seeing the world. 

19. “On Top Of The World” by Imagine Dragons

“On Top Of The World” from Imagine Dragons is an upbeat song that captures the thrill and excitement of traveling. 

The song is about traveling the world, either metaphorically or in reality – climbing ‘the highest mountains’ and seeing the ‘deepest rivers’ – but ultimately finding their way back to the one they love. 

The music video shows members of a band pretending to be astronauts and faking the moon landing, playing on the conspiracy theory that the moon landing never really happened.

20. “Sydney from a 747” by Paul Kelly

Paul Kelly is an Australian singer-songwriter that has delved into lots of different genres over his career, including folk, bluegrass and dub reggae.

His music tends to be about his home country, capturing the beauty, essence and culture of Australia. 

“Sydney from a 727” is no exception, with lyrics about the magical experience of seeing the city of Sydney from a plane, flying over Bondi beach, seeing the beautiful light and the ‘red roofs’ of the houses. 

21. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers

This song comes from Scottish duo The Proclaimers, from their album Sunshine On Leith. 

It is now their signature song, garnering worldwide recognition and reaching No 3 in the US Billboard chart. 

The lyrics are about being willing to travel 500 miles just to see the person you love. 

22. “Homeward Bound” by Simon & Garfunkel

“Homeward Bound” comes from American music duo Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. 

The song was supposedly written by Simon during his time in England, while waiting for a train at Widnes Railway station near Liverpool. 

The lyrics are about homesickness, the pain of being on the road and everything looking the same, wishing instead that you were ‘homeward bound’. 

23. “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash

“I’ve Been Everywhere” was written by Australian country singer Geoff Mack in 1959, popularized by Lucky Starr and Hank Snow in 1962. 

The original song listed Australian towns, a later version by Rolf Harris listed British towns and Cash’s version lists places in the US. 

The lyrics are about having traveled ‘everywhere’, having ‘crossed the deserts bare’ and ‘breathed the mountain air’. 

24. “Shut Up and Drive” by Rihanna

“Shut Up and Drive” was released as the second single for Barbadian singer Rihanna’s third album, Good Girl Gone Bad. 

The song is considered ‘new wave’ and incorporates elements of 70s and 80s music . 

The lyrics are about a driver and passenger taking a car ride, with the singer telling the driver to ‘shut up and drive’. 

It can perhaps be read as a metaphor for starting a relationship, embarking on a journey together and wanting to start it at full speed. 

25. “Shotgun” by George Ezra

Another song about being in the passenger seat, this song is about taking a road trip ‘across the equator’ and enjoying everything there is to see on the way.

This song captures the joy and fun of traveling and seeing the world. 

The song reached No 1 on the UK singles chart, making it Ezra’s first number one hit. 

26. “Riders on the Storm” by The Doors

“Riders on the Storm” was released as a single in 1971. 

The Doors were one of the most influential and controversial bands of the 70s, widely regarded as a symbol of the era’s counterculture. 

“Riders on the Storm” has elements of jazz, psychedelic rock and art rock. 

It is frequently listed among the band’s greatest songs. 

27. “Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell

Another song from the 1970s, “Big Yellow Taxi” was written, composed and performed by Joni Mitchell. 

Mitchell wrote the song while on a trip to Hawaii, having taken a taxi, slept in the hotel and opened up her windows to see beautiful green mountains in the distance. 

She looked down to see a parking lot, and lamented on the fact that such a blight had been left on the beautiful scenery.

28. “New York State of Mind” by Billy Joel

Although “New York State of Mind” wasn’t released as a single, it soon became a fan favorite. 

The lyrics are about how some people want to get away to exotic and sunny places, like Miama and Hollywood, but the singer is in a ‘New York state of mind’ and wants to absorb the beauty of the city. 

Joel famously played the song at The Concert for New York City, the benefit concert for the New York City Police and Fire Departments for those that lost their lives on 9/11.

29. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC

“Highway to Hell” is the opening track to AC/DC’s album of the same name.

The song is known as a rock classic , with an iconic guitar riff that makes it instantly recognisable.

The lyrics are about seeing life as one long car journey to ‘hell’. 

30. “Beyond the Sea” by Bobby Darin

“Beyond the Sea’ was popularized by Bobby Darin in 1959, an English-language version of ‘La Mer’ by Charles Trenet. 

It was originally written as an ode to the sea, but was re-imagined as a love song . 

It has been covered by many artists, including Robbie Williams, but Darin’s version remains the most well-known. 

31. “Is This The Way to Amarillo” by Tony Christie

This song is about a man traveling to Amarillo, Texas, to meet his girlfriend, Marie. 

The lyrics are about traveling across many cities, but none being quite as special as Amarillo, for the fact that his lover is there. 

Tony Christie’s version had great success across Europe but only modest success in his home country of the UK, becoming more popular after its re-release in the 2000s.

A video featuring Peter Kay and some other celebrities was created for Comic Relief in 2005 to raise money for charity. 

32. “From Paris to Berlin” by Infernal

“From Paris to Berlin” is a song from Danish dance-pop group Infernal. 

It is their signature song and was their first to chart across countries in Europe.

It was the UK’s sixth biggest selling single of 2006. 

Ahead of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, the song was re-recorded for England fans, changing the title to ‘From London to Berlin’, to support the English Football team. 

33. “Brazil” by Declan McKenna

“Brazil” comes from English singer-songwriter Declan McKenna for his debut album and remains his most streamed song to date. 

The song was written about the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the poverty in Brazil and the corruption surrounding Sepp Blatter and FIFA.  

Despite being released in 2015, the song has experienced a recent revival after becoming a trending sound on TikTok in 2022. 

34. “These Streets” by Paolo Nutini

“These Streets” is from Paolo Nutini’s debut album of the same name, which peaked at No 3 on the UK album charts. 

Most of the songs on the album are inspired by Nutini’s girlfriend, Teri Brogan.

The album was praised for its honesty, lyrics and catchy melodies. 

The album and its follow-up, Sunny Side Up, have both been certified quintuple platinum.

35. “On My Way” by Phil Collins

No songs quite capture the essence of going on a journey like those on Disney soundtracks, and this one from Genesis frontman Phil Collins is no exception. 

The lyrics are about traveling to somewhere new, ‘with blue skies ahead’ and ‘loving every step’ they are taking, feeling ready to meet new friends.

The song features on the soundtrack to Brother Bear , and Collins was also involved in the production of the soundtrack of Tarzan . 

36. “I Walk The Line” by Johnny Cash

This song was written and recorded by American country singer-songwriter Johnny Cash.

Much of Cash’s music is melancholy, focusing on themes of misery, struggle and pain.

“I Walk the Line” remained on the record charts for over 43 weeks, and sold over two million copies. 

37. “These Boots Are Made For Walkin’” by Nancy Sinatra 

“These Boots Are Made For Walkin’” was written by Lee Hazlewood and recorded by American singer Nancy Sinatra, daughter of world-famous performer Frank Sinatra. 

The song reached the No 1 spot in the UK and US, and has been covered since by numerous artists.

It has been described as ‘folk-rock’ in genre. 

38. “Sail Away” by David Gray

“Sail Away” was the fourth single from Gray’s fourth album, White Ladder. 

The lyrics ask their lover to sail away with them, to escape from reality. 

As is common in songs about travel, the ‘journey’ alluded to in the lyrics can be read metaphorically, an analogy for the journey of a relationship, as well as literally. 

39. “Keep Driving” by Harry Styles

Harry Styles is one of the biggest pop stars in the world right now, having found success as part of One Direction, one of the biggest boy bands in history.

“Keep Driving” comes from Styles’ most recent album, Harry’s House, which was released in 2022. 

The album received the best first week of sales in Styles’ career, reflecting his consistent upward trajectory as a solo artist. 

The lyrics seem random and non-sensical at points, but the general theme is about wanting to ‘keep driving’ with someone and get away from reality. 

40. “All Around the World” by Justin Bieber, Ludacris

“All Around The World” comes from another of the biggest male pop artists of this generation, Justin Bieber. 

The song can be classed as a Eurodance track, and features similar instrumentation to tracks by Usher, Britney Spears and Chris Brown.

The lyrics are about the universality of love, how ‘people all around the world’ are wanting to be loved. 

41. “Maps” by Maroon 5

In “Maps”, Maroon 5 describe a relationship using travel as a metaphor, describing a ‘map’ that always leads back to their lover.

It was the lead single for their fifth album, V, released in 2014.

Some criticized the song for being too similar to their previous lead single, Payphone. 

The song reached No 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. 

42. “American Boy” by Estelle, Kanye West

“American Boy” was written by Estelle, West, will.i.am, Estelle’s mentor John Legend and some other collaborators. 

John Legend provides additional vocals. 

Legend had suggested the idea of creating a song about an American man to Estelle, and the song describes wanting to go on a trip, wanting to see New York and LA. 

43. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman

“Fast Car” comes from Chapman’s self-titled debut album.

Chapman is instantly recognisable from her deep-toned voice. 

“Fast Car” is about saving up money and driving away in a ‘fast car’ to ‘finally see what it means to be living’ outside of their town. 

The song plays on classic themes of being in a relationship and wanting to escape a small town to explore the world, believing they are destined for better things.

44. “Empire State of Mind” by Alicia Keys, Jay-Z

“Empire State of Mind” can be read as a love letter to New York, describing various neighborhoods in the city.

The song features a music sample of “Love on a Two-Way Street” by the Moments. 

The title, “Empire State of Mind”, can be read as a reference to Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind”, as well as a wordplay on the iconic Empire State building, a landmark in the city. 

45. “International Love” by Pitbull, Chris Brown

Pitbull calls himself “Mr Worldwide”, so it’s fitting that he would write a song about traveling internationally and meeting women.

The song was released as a single for Pitbull’s sixth album, Planet Pit, in 2011.

The lyrics list various locations across the world and describe the excitement of meeting beautiful women, but determining that there is ultimately ‘nothing like Miami’s heat’. 

46. “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane

“Somewhere Only We Know” comes from British alternative rock band Keane, as a single from their debut album Hopes and Fears. 

The song remains their most well-known song, and was covered by Lily Allen for the 2013 John Lewis Christmas advert. 

It was inspired by David Bowie’s “Heroes”. 

The song’s lyrics are about the narrator wanting to take his lover and go ‘somewhere only [they] know’.

47. “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol

“Chasing Cars” was written and recorded by Northern Irish-Scottish alt-rock band Snow Patrol in 2006. 

The song gained popularity after being used in the second season finale of Grey’s Anatomy.

It remains their biggest-selling single to date. 

The lyrics are about ‘chasing cars’ but only ‘around [their] heads’. 

48. “Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus

Despite being an iconic Miley song, “Party in the USA” was actually written by another well-known pop musician, Jessie J, alongside Claud Kelly and Dr. Luke.

The song was originally set for Jessie, but they decided it wasn’t edgy enough for her. 

The lyrics were reinterpreted to be about Cyrus’s move from Nashville to Hollywood. 

Despite only being included to make up tracks on the album, the song was a hit for Cyrus and it reached the No 2 spot in the Billboard Hot 100. 

The lyrics are about the nerves and excitement of getting off the plane in Hollywood, seeing the famous sights and going out to party.

50. “Lost in Japan” by Shawn Mendes, Zedd

“Lost in Japan” was written for Mendes’ self-titled third album, and was later remixed by Zedd.

The song has funk, pop and R&B elements, resembling the works of Justin Timberlake.

The lyrics are about the singer asking a romantic interest if they have plans that night, because he is only a couple of hundred miles from Japan and can travel there by plane. 

51. “Holiday” by Confidence Man

“Confidence Man” are an indie electronic pop band from Australia, and released this song “Holiday” for their album Tilt in 2021. 

The song is upbeat and energetic, with the lyrics being about going on ‘holiday’ and ‘getting paid’. 

This single summarizes the excitement ahead of going away on holiday, and now has over 2 million streams on Spotify.

52. “Barcelona” by Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran is known for the story-telling, visual element of his songwriting, and this track is no exception.

“Barcelona” is about imagining he is away in Barcelona with a lover, ‘dancing in the streets’ and ‘drinking Sangria’. 

The song includes a lot of Spanish words, which apparently ‘don’t make a lot of sense’ but are more just random Spanish words that Sheeran knew and wanted to throw into the song. 

53. “Hotel Room Service” by Pitbull

Another Pitbull song, “Hotel Room Service” is about encouraging someone to ‘forget about’ their boyfriend and meet them in the hotel room. 

The song samples “Push the Feeling On” by Nightcrawlers and lyrics from Jay-Z’s “I Just Wanna Love U”. 

An official remix was released, including vocals from ex-Pussycat Dolls singer Nicole Scherzinger. 

54. “Club Tropicana” by Wham!

“Club Tropicana” was written by Wham! Duo George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley.

The song was inspired by the duo’s excitement for the burgeoning New Romantics club scene. 

“Club Tropicana” imagines a magical paradise of a club scene, where ‘drinks are free’ and the whole night is a ‘holiday’.

The song is heavily associated with going on holiday, emulating the mood and heat of the tropics. 

55. “Summer Holiday” by Cliff Richard

“Summer Holiday” was written for the soundtrack of a film of the same name, which was released in 1963.

The album topped the UK charts for 14 weeks. 

The lyrics summarize the excitement of going on a holiday in summertime, a chance to get away and ‘do the things they always wanted to’. 

Songs About Traveling – Final Thoughts

Some of the songs on this list describe and reference specific places, where some simply capture the excitement and freedom of going out and seeing the world. 

Even if you have done little traveling , you will surely find something to relate to, or perhaps inspire you, amongst this list. 

Many artists use the concept of travel as a metaphor for love, about finding a loved one as their ‘ultimate destination’. 

Other artists are less concerned with the joys and excitement of traveling, and are more focused on the idea of coming home to see loved ones.

Regardless of whether their depiction is positive or negative, it is safe to say that there is something for everyone in this list of songs about traveling, which includes some of the best songs of all time . 

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93 Best Songs About Travel and Adventure for Your Playlist

Looking for great songs for your next trip? Well, you’re in the right place! I’ve put together 93 of the BEST adventure songs for the ultimate wanderlust playlist! Be sure to add them to your travel playlist before you leave so you don’t run into trouble with Internet connections.

When you get out on the open road, there’s nothing quite like turning up the music and listening to the perfect song to get you excited about your travel plans! Exploring new places, getting out of your comfort zone, meeting new people, basking in the sun — whatever travel adventures you are taking on your next vacation will help keep you young, healthy, and happy!

We are traveling out west to Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, and South Dakota soon! I am beyond excited to be off on our next adventure for 15-days! My road trip playlist has already been keeping me company as I plan and prepare for the trip, but I’ve discovered even more great songs to add before we leave!

Related Article: 30 Reasons Why Traveling Is Important To Your Overall Wellness

Disclaimer : This list of the best adventure songs has been curated by me, thus they represent my taste and preferred style and genres. You will note that the selected songs are primarily clean, traditional songs from mainstream genres. I recognize that there are many other enjoyable songs about travel today that may not have been included in this list.

Best Adventure Songs to Inspire Your Wanderlust

I think travel and music go together just like peanut butter and jelly. A perfect playlist in the background almost always enriches your adventures.

Favorite songs bring back wonderful memories of past travels, as well as inspire a clear and present mindset for your current adventures.

Whether you are riding along country roads or flying across the mid-west on a jet plane — or maybe both — the best travel songs inspire positive vibes and great memories!

These are my all-time favorite travel and adventure songs that bring me great joy on every trip!

• “Welcome to New York” by Taylor Swift
• “Highway Don’t Care” by Tim McGraw and Taylor Swift
• “Surfin’ USA” by The Beach Boys
• “California Girls” by Katy Perry ft. Snoop Dogg
• “Havana” by Camila Cabello
• “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” by Alan Jackson
• “Proud Mary” by Tina Turner
• “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys
• “Escape (The Pina Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes
• “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line
• “Dirt Road Anthem” by Jason Aldean
• “Blowin’ Smoke” by Kacey Musgrave
• “On The Road Again” by Willie Nelson
• “My Church” by Maren Morris
• “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers
• “I Know Where I’m Going” by The Judds

Travel and Adventure Songs from Country Artists

Country music is generally my preferred genre of music. But when I travel, I enjoy a variety of music genres because of the upbeat tempo of many of the songs.

These are some of my favorite adventure songs from country music that I have on my playlist. They take me back to many times in my life when I traveled with loved ones and they are a breath of fresh air that bring back wonderful memories.

• “Soak Up The Sun” by Sheryl Crow
• “Leaving On A Jet Plane” by John Denver
• “Life Is A Highway” by Rascal Flats
• “I’ve Been Everywhere Man” by Johnny Cash
• “On The Road Again” by Willy Nelson
• “Ramblin’ Man” by The Allman Brothers
• “Drunk on a Plane” by Dierks Bentley
• “Somewhere on a Beach” by Dierks Bentley
• “Highway Vagabond” by Miranda Lambert
• “I’m a Ramblin’ Man” by Waylon Jennings
• “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
• “Jackson” by Johnny Cash and June Carter

Best Songs for Beach Vacations

I’ve spent my entire life going on vacations to the beach. We live about 3 hours from Ocean City, Maryland so that has always been our vacation spot every summer. And since we are a family of teachers, it worked out especially well during our summer break.

The Beach Boys songs went on every vacation with us for years, so today their songs bring me great joy! I have such wonderful memories! Plus, who doesn’t have a little summer love story that comes to mind when you listen to some of these songs?

I’ve also discovered some new favorites, too. When I listen to these songs, they magically take me back to the beach where I am carefree and happy. Where I am making great memories with family and friends over the years.

I hope these summertime beach adventure (and love:) songs bring great joy to your heart and mind.

• “Toes” by Zack Brown Band
• “Surfin’ Safari” by The Beach Boys
• “When The Sun Goes Down” by Kenny Chesney and Uncle Kracker
• “Pontoon” by Little Big Town
• “Summertime” by Will Smith & DJ Jazzy Jeff
• “Yellow Submarine” by The Beatles
• “California Dreamin’ ” by The Beach Boys
• “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” by Kenny Chesney
• “All Summer Long” by Kid Rock
• “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini” by Brian Hyland
• “Under the Boardwalk” by The Drifters
• “Summer Nights” by Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta
• “Surf City” by Jan & Dean
• “Beachin’ ” by Jake Owen
• “Summertime” by Kenny Chesney

Relaxing Adventure & Travel Songs

Sometimes when we are traveling, we just want to sit with our music, our favorite people, and relax. These are some of the best songs for that. Enjoy those moments!

• “Margaritaville” by Jimmy Buffett
• “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Ava Cassidy
• “Come Away With” Me by Norah Jones
• “Leaving On A Jet Plane” by Chantal Kreviazuk
• “New York State Of Mind” by Billie Joel
• “Homeward Bound” by Simon & Garfunkel
• “Orinoco Flow” by Enya
• “Road Trippin'” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers
• “New York State of Mind” by Billy Joel
• “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
• “Free” by Donavon Frankenreiter
• “Hotel California” by Eagles
• “Africa” by Toto

Favorite Rock Songs About Travel

These rock songs are all pretty amazing. My husband is going to especially love these songs on our vacation playlist.

I know and love almost all of these songs from my youth, and I find it very interesting that they have common themes that reflect the times several decades ago. The world was free and wild back then — people hitchhiked across the United States with no worries — and these songs reflect that freedom.

Let these songs take you back to a more simple, yet wild and free time!

• “Born To Be Wild” by Steppenwolf
• “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
• “Travelin’ Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
• “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynard Skynard
• “A Horse with No Name” by America
• “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac
• “Like a Rolling Stone” by Bob Dylan
• “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane

Best Classic Songs About Adventure and Travel

No list of songs is ever going to satisfy everyone simple because we each have our own opinions and preferences. But there are classic songs about adventure and travel that seem to make every list — just because everyone knows and loves them.

Each of these songs is on this list for a different reason. Sometimes the lyrics are meaningful and remind us of a great adventure on the open road. Sometimes the music is upbeat or inspiring and makes us excited about our adventure. Sometimes it’s just a happy beat that gets our toes tapping and puts a smile our faces.

Some of these songs go back decades but they are ingrained in our minds and inspire our wanderlust dreams. Who could put together a playlist of the best adventure songs without these classics?

• “I Left My Heart In San Francisco” by Tony Bennet
• “Midnight Train To Georgia” by Gladys Knight And The Pips
• “Island in the Sun” by Weezer
• “Coming To America” by Neil Diamond
• “California Dreamin’ ” by The Mamas And The Papas
• “Travelin’ Man” by Ricky Nelson
• “Come Fly With Me” by Frank Sinatra
• “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
• “New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra
• “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root
• “Carry on Wayward Son” by Kansas
• “Sittin’ On the Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding
• “Leaving On a Jet Plane” by Peter, Paul, and Mary
• “Wayfaring Strangers” by Johnny Cash
• “American” by Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel

Contemporary Songs About Travel

I honestly don’t know too many of these songs, but I noticed they were frequently found on other lists of best adventure songs. I listened to them and didn’t find anything offensive, so I included them on my list since they are obviously popular songs and inspire new adventures and fun!

•   “Galway Girl” by Ed Sheeran
•  “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton
• “Shut Up and Drive” by Rihanna
• “On Top of The World” by Imagine Dragons
• “Around the World” by Daft Punk
• “All I Want” by Joni Mitchell
• “Take Me Home” by Phil Collins
• “My Traveling Star” by James Taylor

Best Travel Songs for Reels and TikTok

These are some super fun songs to use for your vacation and travel videos! They are staples on Reels and TikTok, so when you are putting together a little music video of your vacation to share on social media, consider one of these great songs.

Or, you can even consider one of the songs in the above — any of them would be a great song to go with your short-form, vertical video! A classic song that everyone knows is always a good choice, too.

• “Magic in the Hamptons” by Social House
•  “Vacation” by The Dirty Heads
• “Sunny Day” by Ted Fresco
• “Explore the World” by Brainheart
• “Dancing in the Streets of Barcelona” by Ed Sheeran

Final Thoughts: Best Adventure Songs for your Playlist

I have thoroughly enjoyed curating this list of best adventure songs for all of us! I can hardly wait to add new songs to my travel and adventure playlist in preparation for my national parks vacation out west.

While researching songs for this article, if I didn’t already know a song, I asked Alexa to play it for me to determine if it would make the cut or not. There are more travel songs out there than I ever imagined! And I didn’t realize how many travel and adventure songs were also about LOVE:)

Did you know that traveling and adventure are beneficial to your overall wellness? That’s why I include articles about adventure on my website about personal growth and wellness:) Traveling actually helps you live a happier, healthier, and longer life! So while you’re singing your way through your adventures, you might want to check out these other articles about travel and adventure:

• 5 Secrets to Help You Plan an Adventure Vacation
• Adventure Quotes to Inspire Your Youthful Spirit
• 19 Awesome Adventurous Bucket List Ideas to do in America
• 5 Cool Things To Do on a Weekend in Charleston, SC
• Family Fun in Nashville – Over 50 Things to Do in 2021!

Have fun in all of your travels and adventures ! Meet new people… see new places… learn new things…all while relaxing with your favorite travel and adventure songs!

Love to ALL! ~ Susan

Did I Forget Any of the Very Best Adventure Songs?

Do you have favorites that aren’t on this list? Please share them with us in the comment section below:)

If you found value in my words, please consider sharing it on your socials by clicking the buttons below. Thank you for your continued support! It means so much to me!

Susan Ballinger is an award-winning educator, author, speaker, PTSD survivor, and advocate for ALL who has always been passionate about supporting and inspiring others in their personal growth. In her retirement years, she became the primary caregiver of her aging parents and developed an extensive knowledge-base about the elderly. You can learn more about Susan's professional work and compassionate nature by exploring her ABOUT page and connecting through her social media platforms.

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35 Songs About Traveling and Adventure

Over the years, people have rediscovered a simpler way of traveling: the road trip . Maybe you’re planning a day trip within your own state. Or perhaps you want to take a long road trip around the country. Whatever your travel goals, there’s a song that can accompany you.

The list below contains old favorite songs about travel as well as some new songs about adventure. Let’s dive in and hit the road!

1. “Vacation” — Thomas Rhett

This unique country music song by Thomas Rhett Akins is a hidden gem in the world of beach songs . The lyrics reference tons of beach themes, including toes in the sand, coconut water cocktails, Coppertone, and bikinis.

The video is equally fun, and it features the singer with his wife and family on vacation in Hawaii. In the video, you can watch them chilling on the beach, surfing, and even skydiving.

Next: Top songs about being happy and feeling good in life

2. “Pontoon” — Little Big Town

How does spending a lazy day on a pontoon boat sound? Talk about relaxing! The song “Pontoon” by Little Big Town is all about spending the day on the lake with friends and family.

“Pontoon” was released on the band’s “Tornado” album in 2012. “Tornado” was Little Big Town’s fifth studio album and was the first number 1 single the group had on the Billboard’s chart of Hot Country Songs.

Next: The best songs about boating and boats

3. “Soak up the Sun” — Sheryl Crow

When you’re feeling down and bad about your life, just know you’re in good company because Sheryl Crow sometimes feels the same way. Her “Soak up the Sun” song references a “crummy job” and not enough money, which isn’t likely for her at this point in her life, but perhaps she has had her own money woes in the past.

The song was inspired when Crow had a conversation with a co-worker and they wrote the song to take Crow’s mind off of some health issues.

Next: The best songs about the sunshine & the sun (and everything it brings)

4. “All Summer Long” — Kid Rock

Nothing says vacation like summertime, especially when you’re a kid in school. Kid Rock’s song “All Summer Long” brings those long-ago summers back to life. The song was released in 2008 on Rock’s “Rock n Roll Jesus” album in 2007.

Kid Rock says that the song was inspired by a Bob Seger song titled “Night Moves.” The song has snippets from Warren Zevon’s “Werewolves of London” and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama.”

Next: Top summer songs of all time (songs for summertime moods)

5. “Party in the U.S.A.” — Miley Cyrus

On the surface, “Party in the U.S.A.” is about a young woman who has been thrust into a big and complicated world. In the song, Cyrus sings about wondering if she’ll fit in, but she also talks about a sense of adventure and possibility.

The song was written by Dr. Luke and it was originally intended to be recorded by Jessie J. However, Dr. Luke determined that it wasn’t edgy enough for Jessie, so he passed it on to Miley.

Next: Greatest 4th of July songs for your Independence Day playlist

6. “A Thousand Miles” — Vanessa Carlton

While travel and adventure songs can be bold anthems, they can also be piano ballads with the same adventure vibe. Vanessa Carlton’s “A Thousand Miles” combines two popular themes: love and travel. In the song, Carlton sings about walking a thousand miles to see her beloved.

The song came out on Carlton’s “Be Not Nobody” album in 2002 and it has become her signature song. Carlton herself wrote the song, and she said it was inspired by her crush on a fellow student, who is now a well-known actor.

7. “Promised Land” — Chuck Berry

When you’ve got California on your mind, you shouldn’t think of getting there without listening to “Promised Land” by Chuck Berry. Berry wrote the song to the melody of the classic American folk song “Wabash Cannonball” for his “St. Louis to Liverpool” album.

The song was released in 1964 just after Berry was released from prison, and Berry wrote the song when he was locked up. In the song, the singer hopped on board a Greyhound bus in the city of Norfolk, Virginia, and headed west.

8. “Life Is a Highway” — Rascal Flatts

Life is sort of like its own kind of road trip, and that’s the theme that this Rascal Flatts song brings us. The lyrics point out that there’s a world that’s waiting outside of every darkened doorway. All you have to do is open the door and explore it and the blues won’t haunt you anymore.

Just like the highway, life can have smooth and rough patches. It’s all about how you navigate the journey.

Next: Best road trip songs to sing along to while driving

9. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” — The Proclaimers

It’s possible that “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers is one of the catchiest and most energizing songs ever. This song was written by identical twin brothers from Scotland named Charlie and Craig Ried, and once you get the song in your head, it’s hard to forget it.

The song speaks about being willing to travel to the ends of the earth to be with someone.

Next: The best party songs to get up and dance to (of all time)

10. “Truckin” — The Grateful Dead

As one of the most well-known songs by The Grateful Dead, “Truckin” spoke to the band’s grueling tour schedule. The song appeared first on the band’s “American Beauty” album in 1970, and it has been listed as an official national treasure by the U.S. Library of Congress.

One of the most famous lyrics of the song is “what a long, strange trip it’s been,” so this is the perfect song for your travel Spotify list.

11. “America” — Simon & Garfunkel

Paul Simon composed and wrote “America” to be performed by himself and his musical partner, Art Garfunkel. The song is about two young lovers who decide to hitchhike their way across America. Supposedly , the song was inspired when Paul Simon took a road trip in 1964 with his girlfriend at the time, Kathy Chitty.

The road trip Simon took with Chitty took five days and they drove across the country together.

Next: Greatest patriotic songs for your American celebrations

12. “Some Beach” — Blake Shelton

The Blake Shelton song “Some Beach” is all about the beach, but the lyrics also reference driving down the interstate and singing Jimmy Buffet’s “Margaritaville.” This epic song was released on Shelton’s “Barn & Grill” album in July 2004.

“Some Beach” addresses the issues we can face when we travel to get to our vacation destination. They include being flipped the bird in traffic and being at a dentist’s office all day.

Next: Ultimate vacation songs playlist for travel

13. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” — Cyndi Lauper

Is it even possible for a group of young women to take off for an adventure or vacation and not sing “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper? The song was actually written by a man, who released it in 1979. However, it’s Lauper’s version that is so famous.

In the 1980s, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” was a worldwide hit, and it’s considered to be Cyndi Lauper’s signature song.

Next: Greatest 80s songs list (top 1980s jams)

14. “Fly Away” — Lenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz wrote “Fly Away” for his “5” album, which was released in 1998. The song hit the number 12 spot on the U.S. charts, and it was a hit around the world. 

“Fly Away” won Kravitz a Grammy Award in 1999 for Best Male Rock Performance. He said that he wrote the song accidentally when he was playing different chords on a guitar when he was testing a new amp. 

15. “I’ve Been Everywhere” — Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash’s hit song “I’ve Been Everywhere” was actually written in 1959 by a country singer from Australia named Geoff Mack. The song has been recorded by tons of artists, but it’s Johnny Cash’s version that is the most well-known.

Cash recorded the song for his “Unchained” album in 1996 with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The “Unchained” album won that year’s Grammy Award for Best Country Album.

16. “Cruise” — Florida Georgia Line

If you’re taking an aimless journey, either around the block or around the country, you definitely need “Cruise” on your playlist. Just like the song says, you’ll want to roll down your windows and cruise.

The country duo Florida Georgia Line released the bro-country song “Cruise” to iTunes in 2012, and the song became even more famous when it was remixed by the rapper Nelly in 2013.

17. “Chillin’ It” — Cole Swindell

“Chillin’ It” is a song that was released independently by Cole Swindell as a digital download in March 2013. Just a few months later, Swindell signed his first record deal, and the song was included on Swindell’s debut album.

This song will get anyone ready to go on an adventure as it blasts about having the “top back” and the sunglasses on. Oh, and rolling with the music jacked.

18. “Travelin’ Man” — Ricky Nelson

You’ve got to have a few oldies on your travel playlist, so why not add the Ricky Nelson classic “Travelin’ Man”? This song was a number 1 hit in 1961, and the song tells the story of having a beloved in every port around the world.

It’s hard to know if this song could still be a big hit in the “Me Too” era, but it sure is catchy and fun.

Next: Top upbeat love songs of all time (our picks to listen to)

19. “Ramblin’ Man” — Hank Williams

Hank Williams was one of the most influential and significant songwriters in the United States. Williams wrote “Ramblin’ Man” and released it in 1951 on the B side to another song. However, “Ramblin’ Man” ended up being the most well-known song.

This song speaks about a man who can’t settle down with the love of his life because he can’t control his wanderlust. He’s apologetic but says she just has to learn to deal with a Ramblin’ Man.

20. “End of the Line” — The Traveling Wilburys

In the latter part of the 1980s, five music legends created a supergroup called The Traveling Wilburys. The men in the group were Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, George Harrison, and Jeff Lynn. Unfortunately, the group was only able to release a single album before the death of Roy Orbison .

“End of the Line” was on that album, and the song talks about how everything will “work out fine” as they head down the highway together.

21. “Cake by the Ocean” — DNCE

The DNCE song “Cake by the Ocean” talks about two of our favorite things: cake and the ocean. Because why not? The theme of the song is not to walk around sad, but to treat like like you’re having cake by the ocean and licking cake frosting from your fingertips.

The song was released by DNCE’s debut album titled “EP” in September 2015. The band also included the song on their self-titled debut studio album, “DNCE.”

Next: Greatest sexy songs of all time (get down and have sex to these tracks)

22. “On the Road Again” — Willie Nelson

One of the most popular songs ever written by Willie Nelson is his classic “On the Road Again.” This song was so popular that it won Willie the Grammy Award for Best Country Song the year after he released it.

Willie wrote the song on an airplane’s barf bag after movie producer Jerry Schatzberg asked him to write something about what it’s like to be on the road as a musician. The song was in Willie’s movie “Honeysuckle Rose.” 

23. “Around the World” — Daft Punk

This Daft Punk song is proof that a song doesn’t have to have complex lyrics to make it big and be super catchy. The song’s only lyrics are “around the world,” and they’re sung over and over.

Daft Punk is a French duo that makes electronic music. As far as travel anthems go, this one will certainly energize you and you don’t have to think a lot about the lyrics. Just go with the flow.

24. “Blame it on Mexico” — George Strait

The country music superstar George Strait knows a bit about the love that can happen south of the border in Mexico. After all, he and his wife Norma eloped to Mexico to get married and they recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

“Blame it on Mexico” is a classic country song, but it also speaks to the adventurous spirit that many of us have when we hit the open road.

25. “Train Song” — Phish

The band known as Phish has been touring in the U.S. for nearly 40 years, and during one of their tours, Mike Gordon (the bassist) wrote “Train Song.” This simple song has a serene melody that will remind you of the rolling movement of a train.

It’s hard not to feel chill and relaxed when listening to “Train Song,” so it’s perfect for a vacation.

26. “Born to Be Wild” — Steppenwolf

In 1968, Steppenwolf released a rock anthem that was destined to capture the very essence of getting out onto the open road. “Born to Be Wild” was written originally as a ballad, but the band sped the rhythm up to make it into an epic rock anthem.

This adventure song proclaims that we were all “born to be wild,” and the song has been covered by dozens of artists over the years.

27. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” — John Denver

John Denver’s song “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” is about the state of West Virginia. Denver released the song in 1971 as a single, and it still sells well now. In fact, so far, this song has sold more than 1.6 million digital copies, and it’s probably because it’s such a timeless adventure and travel song.

“Take Me Home, Country Roads” is about traveling back home by country roads and singing on the way.

Next: The absolute greatest songs of all time (our ultimate list of picks)

28. “Ramblin’ Man” — The Allman Brothers

The Allman Brothers were inspired by the Hank Williams song of the same name, but their version of “Ramblin’ Man” is a totally different song with its own style. Like the Williams song, this version is about a man who loves to travel too much to settle down.

In the song, the singer gives the suggestion that he’ll have to leave behind someone he loves because he was “born a ramblin’ man.”

29. “Sunshine and Summertime” — Faith Hill

Faith Hill released “Sunshine and Summertime” in 2006. The song was the fourth single from her “Fireflies” album and it reached the number 7 spot on the Hot Country Songs chart.

LIke many of the songs on our list, this song is all about the freedom of summer and all that it means to get outside and explore new things and simple pleasures.

30. “Toes” — Zac Brown Band

When you want to have your toes in the ocean water, your behind in the sand, and a beer in your hand, listen to “Toes” by the Zac Brown Band. This song was recorded by the country music band and released in 2009.

“Toes” is the third single from “The Foundation,” the band’s 2008 debut studio album. “Toes” was their second song that hit the top of the U.S. charts.

31. “Road Trippin'” — Red Hot Chili Peppers

The Red Hot Chili Peppers released “Road Trippin'” on their hit album “Californication.” The song was the fifth and last single on the album, and it’s a travel song that has earned a place on countless road trip music lists.

The song tells the story of a band road trip that was taken by Anthony Kiedis, Flea, and John Frusciante when they drove up the coast road from Lost Angeles to Big Sur.

32. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” — Peter, Paul, and Mary

Did you know that the late John Denver wrote “Leaving on a Jet Plane”? He actually included it on his debut demo recording and handed out copies as Christmas gifts in 1966. However, he changed the title of the song from the original “Babe I Hate to Go.”

The most famous version of the song was recorded by Peter, Paul, and Mary for their “Rhymes & Reasons” album in 1969. For Denver, he said that the song was very personal to him. He says that the song is about having to leave someone behind.

33. “Travelin’ Band” — Creedence Clearwater Revival

John Fogerty wrote “Travelin’ Band” for Creedence Clearwater Revival, and the band included the song on their “Cosmo’s Factory” album that was released in 1970. Fogerty says that he was inspired by rock ‘n roll songs from the 1950s, particularly those by Little Richard. 

The song’s lyrics describe what life on the road is like for a musician or band. 

34. “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” — Kenny Chesney

For many of us, the first thing we do when we get home is take off any clothing or shoes that we don’t absolutely need to walk around the house. This includes our shoes, and for many folks, their shirts.

Kenny Chesney’s song brings that vacation vibe to wherever you go with “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem.” This song is on Chesney’s album with the same name.

35. “Highway to Hell” — AC/DC

AC/DC is an Australian rock band that reigned supreme in the 1970s and 1980s. Their hit song “Highway to Hell” was released in 1979, and this song referred to the horrific tour schedule that the band had to keep.

The lyrics to this song are all about being on the road, and while the band did grow weary of travel, this song lives on as the perfect travel and adventure anthem.

Final Thoughts on Songs About Traveling and Adventure

Did these songs about traveling and adventure make you want to hit the road and discover parts unknown? Load up your music streaming apps/devices and go explore the world.

As the Head Editor and Writer at Music Grotto, Liam helps write and edit content produced from professional music/media journalists and other contributing writers. He works closely with journalists and other staff to format and publish music content for the Music Grotto website. Liam is also the founding member of Music Grotto and is passionate in disseminating editorial content to its readers.

Liam’s lifelong love for music makes his role at Music Grotto such a rewarding one. He loves researching, writing and editing music content for Music Grotto.

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57 Hit Songs About Traveling (2023 with Videos)

Travel and adventure are healing to the human spirit. Seeing new places and having new experiences is always exciting. If you’re planning a trip, listening to songs about traveling is always a great way to get even more excited about the trip.

The list of songs below will certainly get you mentally prepared for your trip. We’ve included a wide range of songs from all music genres, so we’re confident you’ll find many songs that you love. If you’re interested, we also have a perfect playlist for vacations .

Table of Contents

1. Born To Be Wild by Steppenwolf

“Born To Be Wild” is a road trip classic. The song is the third single of the American-Canadian rock band Steppenwolf in their eponymous debut album and their most successful hit. Initially written by musician Mars Bonfire as a ballad, the track is a pure rock performance, with the song lyrics even spelling this out as “heavy metal thunder.” Its memorable riff, pulsing beat, and motor-on-the-highway lyrics have made the song an anthem to both biker culture and mosh pits. It’s a great song to put on while the car rolls down the streets to start a good long drive. This song was a massive hit and won the RIAA gold record award . Pretty much everyone has heard this song, and even today, it’s very popular.

2. A Thousand Miles by Vanessa Carlton

The debut single from American pop artist Vanessa Carlton, “A Thousand Miles,” placed the singer at the top of the charts and on the road to commercial success. The song is friendly to the ear from the first hook, with its tinkling piano keys played by Carlton, meshed with a harmony of strings. Carlton wrote the song inspired by a crush to whom she never managed to confess. Music can speak more than simple words do, and building from its origin story, the song encourages a journey just to meet that special someone. Fun fact: the song was prominently featured in the cult hit comedy film, “White Chicks.”

3. Leaving On A Jetplane by Chantal Kreviazuk

The song “Leaving On A Jetplane” traces a history of several recordings in its lifetime. Created by singer-songwriter John Denver in 1966, the song experienced a jump in popularity when it was recorded and released by the American folk group Peter, John, and Mary. The song was then tapped to be part of the soundtrack of the disaster film “Armageddon.” That 1998 version, performed by Chantal Kreviazuk, blew up as much as the film it was part of. The lyrics are melancholic, a tale of someone taking a journey away from a loved one. Quite a sentimental track for your travel playlist. This is one of my personal favorite songs about flying away.

4. Paris by The Chainsmokers

The track “Paris” is a single from the debut album of the American electronic dance music duo the Chainsmokers. The track utilizes common elements in the duo’s arsenal, including chill keyboard, sounds reminiscent of their massive hit single “Closer.” The final output is a more subdued sound, a level swaying rhythm with no sudden drops, with tinkling beats and light synths, featuring uncredited vocals by American singer Emily Warren. The song spins a tale of young lovers tumbling about in Paris, wild and free and hiding from their parents, with a promise of “if we go down, we go down together.” “Paris” was a massive hit and peaked at rank six on the Billboard Hot 100 .

5. Adventure Of A Lifetime by Coldplay

“Adventure Of A Lifetime” brings a fresh, funky beat to the somber, soulful tunes that the British rock band Coldplay is quite known for. The lead single from the 2015 album “A Head Full of Dreams,” the song features chirpy synths mixed with percussions and female vocals before Chris Martin comes in to sing. Happy and upbeat, the lyrics repeat “like I’m alive again,” speaking of an adventure taken and shared with a loved one. Described by Martin as “a more colorful, more joyful sort of thing,” the album’s lead track was welcomed by critics as one of Coldplay’s best offers.

6. Road Trippin’ by Red Hot Chili Peppers

The name speaks for itself as a track for your travel playlist. “Road Trippin’” comes off of “Californication,” the widely successful seventh studio album from American rock legends Red Hot Chili Peppers. The album marks the return of guitarist John Frusciante, and the lyrics of the song pick up an anecdote from this reunion. The words tell of a road trip taken by the band along the Pacific Coast Highway, wherein they enjoyed surfing at the Big Sur with their returning guitarist. The song is purely acoustic, played with no drums, featuring somber guitars and somber vocals, the sound and words contemplative of a trip to the coast with friends.

7. Sleep On The Floor by The Lumineers

Folk rock band, The Lumineers, features the song “Sleep On The Floor” in their second studio album, “Cleopatra.” The song is mellow and sounds gentle, the twanging guitars playing well with the cello, and the eventual entry of drums speeds things up. It is a call to leave everything behind before it is too late before one is burdened by expectations of family and faith. “Pack yourself a toothbrush, dear,” the lyrics sing. The song speaks about necessary travel, a life’s journey to independence, but maybe a less dire message is to just let things go and hit the road.

8. Watermelon Sugar by Harry Styles

From his popular and critically acclaimed album “Fine Line,” the second single, “Watermelon Sugar,” is a sultry, stand-out track. The song opens to speedy acoustic guitar strums, soon meshing with electric guitars, drums, and horns and driven by a catchy melody. The song got its title from the book “In Watermelon Sugar” by Richard Brautigan. Styles has spoken of how the lyrics are about the heady rush of meeting with someone for the first time. These words, the song’s bright notes, and the music video featuring Styles at the beach together transform the song into an open invitation for a summer trip.

9. Kokomo by The Beach Boys

Popular beach song “Kokomo” was first released as a single in 1988 before making it into the original soundtrack of the romantic comedy-drama film “Cocktail.” Performed by American rock band the Beach Boys, the song became a number-one hit, charting on Billboard and becoming one of the band’s most popular tracks to date. The song features a chill percussion intro followed by the smooth, now-iconic croonings of Aruba, Jamaica, and more Caribbean islands. Although Kokomo is an imagined island utopia off the Florida Keys, the song’s vivid imagery of a seaside getaway makes the track a perfect travel companion.

10. Location Unknown by HONNE featuring BEKA

English electronic music duo HONNE found continued success with the album “Love Me/Love Me Not,” from which comes the track “Location Unknown.” Featuring English artist and frequent collaborator BEKA, the Brooklyn session version of the song is calmer, softer, and more sentimental, devoid of HONNE’s signature synth-happy sound. The raw piano chords float with the seamless medley of BEKA’s soulful voice and Andy Clutterback’s honest vocals. The lyrics tell a tale of traveling too much, perhaps, being away from someone beloved for too long, and the heartfelt vow to return despite not knowing when the desired reunion would occur.

11. Take Me Back To London by Ed Sheeran featuring Stormzy

Some travels have gone on too long that one misses the comforts of home. This might look a bit different for a popular, successful artist such as English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, who must have been enjoying touring the world, but it’s a relatable sentiment. “Take Me Back To London” is the eighth and final single from his “No.6 Collaborations Project” album. The track has Sheeran’s signature sound merged with spitting hip hop and rap care of rapper Stormzy. The two Brits swap words and rap about places they have been and things they have missed back home in London.

12. seoul by RM of BTS

For his second mix-tape release, RM of renowned Kpop supergroup BTS teamed up with British duo HONNE for the track “seoul.” The album, titled and stylized as “mono.”, peels off layers in the Korean rapper’s musicality, revealing soulful sounds and lyrics. “Seoul” is no exception. The synth sounds at the intro are thumping yet gentle. James Hatcher of HONNE revealed this was his vocal, “loaded into a sampler and played on a keyboard.” RM’s lyrics opine about the city he calls home, utilizing the “soul” wordplay and delivering a thoughtful track. RM’s bittersweet feelings about his home city pose a unique invitation to see it for yourself.

13. Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

“Take Me Home, Country Roads,” also known simply as “Country Roads,” is an ode to West Virginia from John Denver’s 1971 album “Poems, Prayers & Promises.” Co-written by Denver with fellow American singer-songwriters Bill Danoff and Taffy Nivert, “Country Roads” has been a success since its release and remains to be Denver’s most popular song to date. The song was inspired by a drive home wherein Nivert was behind the wheel while Danoff played his guitar. The drive got the songwriters thinking about growing up in West Virginia and going down the small country roads, sentiments reflected in the song’s lyrics , melded with the guitar’s country twang.

14. Pure Shores by All Saints

Stylized as a dream pop song with its swaying synths and electronic production, “Pure Shores” is a critically and commercially successful track for the English-Canadian girl group All Saints. Created for the film “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, the song was composed based on a 40-second clip from the scene where DiCaprio and co-star Virginie Ledoyen were swimming underwater. The music video themes merge the song’s ambient beats with the movie’s adventure suspense premise, with All Saints shown walking at Wells-Next-The-Sea beach at Norfolk, singing a haunting call. It’s not your typical summer song, but a great track all the same.

15. Around The World by Daft Punk

“Around The World” is a stellar example of what electronic duo Daft Punk is best at, that is, a pumping beat, straightforward lyrics, and vibes. Perfect for dancing in the club as much as it works as a wake-up track on a long drive, the song is a house and disco classic. The lyrics only contain the three words “around the world,” said in repetition 144 times. The robotic vocals, bass, and synths mesh to create a song that sounds perfectly on loop, duly credited by critics as something genius. The song is heralded as one of Daft Punk’s greatest tracks.

16. Have Love, Will Travel by The Sonics

As much as it is a popular slogan peppered all over wall decals and social media, “Have Love, Will Travel” is also a song that enjoyed several incarnations. Written and recorded in 1959 by American blues singer Richard Berry, the song has since been performed by a long list of artists such as punk vocalist Stiv Bators, rock band The Brando’s, and more recently, blues rockers The Black Keys in 2003. The song’s best-known recording, though, was by garage rock band The Sonics. The lyrics speak of going out on a journey and finding love, a universal message that easily transcends decades and genres.

17. The Passenger by Iggy Pop

“The Passenger” by the Godfather of Punk, Iggy Pop, is a garage rock and proto-punk staple. Written by Iggy and guitarist Ricky Gardiner, the song has several inspirations, from the Jim Morrison poem “The Lords” to rides taken by Iggy on the Berlin S-Bahn railway and touring with David Bowie. Iggy explains the experience as driving around in a car “ad infinitum,” a feeling encapsulated in the lyrics and the song’s laidback rhythm. The passenger gets into a car and rides, observing the views, what he sees, and how it makes him feel. The song is a mainstay in Iggy’s live performances and has been featured in movies, video games, and TV shows.

18. Roam by The B-52’s

The track “Roam” spelled success for American New Wave band The B-52’s, becoming their second and final US top 10 hit and earning the band a Grammy nomination. The song is the fourth single from “Cosmic Thing,” the same album carrying another hit, “The Love Shack.” The lyrics encourage a trip around the world to wherever the wind calls, crossing boundaries with love and a kiss in your pocket. The music video itself is a trip, filmed with vocalists Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson singing and dancing to the funky beat against the backdrop of colorful travel-inspired videos and animation.

19. Traveling by Utada Hikaru

Japanese-American singer Utada Hikaru made her breakthrough in the US market with her 2009 English album “This Is The One.” Also known as simply Utada, the artist’s Japanese discography spans wider and includes the boppy, dance-pop song “Traveling” from her acclaimed and best-selling album “Deep River.” The song takes notes from house music, a party tune enriched by the contrast of Utada’s full tone and soulful vocals. At first read, the lyrics are a call to travel, heading for anywhere far to shake the troubles away. Critics have pointed out underlying themes of dreams and nightmares, too, adding layers to the song’s meaning.

20. Beautiful Day by U2

From the album “All That You Can’t Leave Behind” by Irish rock legends U2 “Beautiful Day” Released in 2000. The song was a commercial success, achieving multi-platinum status, and has since joined the lineup of the band’s most prominent hits. The song takes the listener back to U2’s musical roots, harkening back to their earlier sounds. Lead singer Bono described the song as about finding joy despite losing everything. The lyrics describe “not moving anywhere” and being on the road with no destination, but then give the reminder that “it’s a beautiful day, don’t let it slip away.”

21. Sailing by Christopher Cross

Released as the second single of his eponymous album, “Sailing” was written and recorded by American artist Christopher Cross. A commercial hit at the time of release, the song was further popularized by NSYNC when the boy band included their harmonized take in their debut studio album. Cross spoke of writing the soft rock song inspired by an older childhood friend who would take him out sailing to escape the angst that comes with adolescence. The lyrics expand on this inspiration, singing about how sailing takes one away to peace and freedom from the trials and burdens of the day.

22. On Top Of The World by Imagine Dragons

Upbeat, happy track “On Top of The World” is the third single from the album “Night Visions.” Performed by American rock band Imagine Dragons, the song has pop rock, skippy beats featuring guitars and piano instrumentals, a change from more serious tracks on the album such as “Bleeding Out” and “Hear Me.” The song speaks of climbing mountains, crossing rivers, and paying one’s dues without cutting corners, a story of physical and emotional travels until one achieves dreams and hence reaches the top of the world. The rock band relates the message to their accomplishments and triumphs through the years.

23. Empire State Of Mind by Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys

“Empire State Of Mind” by American rapper Jay-Z features vocals of singer Alicia Keys. Considered one of the best songs of 2009, the song features a sample of “Love On A Two-Way Street” by R&B group The Moments and a piano loop that distinguishes the song. Keys’ distinct voice adds sultry layers to the hip-hop track. Written as a tribute to New York City, Jay-Z’s rap enumerates things to see and hopefully not see, the beautiful and the ugly, names of homegrown legends, and more from a varied list of what makes New York the city that it is, and what makes it well worth the visit.

24. Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz

Sometimes the itch to travel comes as more than an urge but as a necessity. “Fly Away” by Lenny Kravitz evokes this feeling, the yearning to take off and be free. “I want to get away, I wanna fly away,” croons the American rocker. The barreling guitar riffs and follow-through percussion demand attention, sweeping under to a clapping beat as Lenny sings the verse. Lenny was apparently playing around with a chord progression, amps on, and the session was recorded. Despite the album having already been completed, the new song was added to the tracklist. “Fly Away” has since been a hit and a travel jam.

25. Wanderlust by The Weeknd

“Wanderlust” is a song from “Kiss Land,” the debut album from Canadian singer-songwriter and record producer The Weeknd. It samples the track “Precious Little Diamond” by Dutch disco group Fox the Fox, the line repeated in the lyrics. An R&B track with disco stirrings, the atmospheric vibe and thumping beats evoke a strong desire to leave and travel. The Weeknd is known for dark lyricism and themes of escapism in his music, and “Wanderlust” fits the bill, likely connecting to the album’s exploration of the tour life as experienced by the artist. A Pharrell Williams remix of the song is featured on a later release.

26. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

“Sweet Home Alabama” is a country rock anthem by the American band Lynyrd Skynyrd. Although none of the songwriters were from Alabama, the song was conceptualized and written as an answer to Neil Young’s 1970s songs “Southern Man” and “Alabama.” Amid controversy stirred by the song, “Sweet Home Alabama” became one of the band’s major hits. Years after its release, band member Gary Rossington said that it was, at its essence, about the Alabama experiences that the band had seen on their tours. “Where the skies are blue,” the lyrics declare against the twanging riff that the song is known for.

27. I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers

“I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by Scottish duo The Proclaimers took its time to be a commercial success. Released in 1988, the song did not get wide acclaim until its inclusion in the 1993 romantic comedy film “Benny and Joon” starring Johnny Depp and Mary Stuart Masterson. The song has since graced popular media, such as American shows “Grey’s Anatomy” and “How I Met Your Mother,” and remains to be a staple in live performances by the Proclaimers. A solid marriage of pop and folk rock, the song builds on a low, snappy beat, with the acoustic duo backed by drums. Written by Craig Reid while waiting to travel to a football match, the lyrics make a vow of rolling and walking 500 miles just to be with someone.

28. We Gotta Get Out Of This Place by The Animals

“We Gotta Get Out Of This Place” is ranked as one of Rolling Stone’s 500 Best Rock Songs. Written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil and performed by the English rock band the Animals, the song is considered iconic. The kind of song that fostered self-reflection, its lyrics meant different ways to different people, grounded on the relatable urge to get out of one’s current situation. Travel to leave, not to necessarily go somewhere, was likely the sentiment that resonated. The song was a popular request in high school dances, graduation parties, and even among the United States Armed Forces stationed in Vietnam during those times of conflict.

29. Maps by Yeah Yeah Yeahs

“Maps” is a punk rock track by American band Yeah Yeah Yeahs, from their 2003 debut album “Fever to Tell.” The song received wide critical acclaim and has been covered by multiple artists, as well as sampled by Beyonce in her song “Hold Up.” Distinguished by its electric intro, the song centers on repetition in the guitar riff and the lyrics, with lead singer Karen O wailing, “wait, they don’t love you like I love you,” amidst calls to pack up, go, and don’t stray. The song is inspired by Karen’s relationship with Angus Andrew, frontman of the rock band Liars, with the music video showing Karen’s real tears at the thought of missing him.

30. Maps by Maroon 5

“Maps” by Maroon 5 comes from the American band’s widely successful 2014 album “V.” An upbeat pop rock track swayed by guitar licks and subtle drums, the song’s dancey beats wrap around the angstier lyrics and is a definitive departure from the band’s earlier funky, alternative sounds. Adam Levine sings of a journey to search for love that has been lost but must be found. “I wonder, where were you? When all the roads you took came back to me.” Levine’s distinct vocals deliver a promise to follow “the map that leads to you.” The song quickly claimed the number-one spot during its release.

31. Runaway by The Corrs

The Irish sibling quartet, The Corrs, delivered a distinct musicality in their songs. “Runaway,” the band’s debut single from their 1995 album “Forgiven, Not Forgotten,” is no exception. The siblings mix rock with classic tunings and hints of traditional Celtic music via electric guitars and drums, marrying with the violin and lead singer Andrea Corr’s strong, melodious vocals. Written by the sisters Andrea, Caroline, and Sharon, “Runaway” speaks of a hopeless, consuming kind of love that demands running away together. Andrea has shared this was the first song she performed in front of her parents and that she was a bit embarrassed by the sensual lyrics. If you like this song, you’ll most likely love our article on songs about running away .

32. Goodnight, Travel Well by The Killers

Some travels have to be taken in isolation with no ticket to return. This is explored by the song “Goodnight, Travel Well” by the American rock band the Killers. The haunting track is dedicated to member Dave Keuning’s mother, who had passed away at the time. The song’s meaning absorbed an additional layer from the succeeding health diagnosis of frontman Brandon Flowers’ mother. In an interview, Flowers remarked that the song travels from being the darkest thing the band has done “before shooting up to the clouds at the end.” It is a perfect description of the emotional journey one takes with the song.

33. Why Georgia by John Mayer

“Why Georgia” is the third single from the American songwriter’s debut album “Room For Squares.” Much like the alternative, poppy tracks in the no-skip album, “Why Georgia” is easy on the ears and tugs on the heart, driven by Mayer’s raspy voice and the acoustic guitar stirrings he was known for at the start. The lyrics describe driving up the 85 and the thoughts that can visit one during an idle, coasting ride. The song swells to its chorus, asking again and again, “am I living it right? Why? Tell me why?” A song made for musings and your identity crisis playlist.

34. Ready To Run by One Direction

“Ready To Run” is the first promotional single from the popular English boy group’s 2014 studio album “FOUR.” The boy band performed the track in their “On The Road Again” tour. “FOUR” received positive reviews, with praise for the maturity of the boys’ songwriting and lyrics, merging with the comfortable sounds of their musical style. The song has been interpreted as being in a place where one does not belong and being ready to run to get away. “Escape from the city and follow the sun / ‘Cause I wanna be yours / Don’t you wanna be mine?” the boys croon in harmony.

35. One For The Road by Arctic Monkeys

“One For The Road” is a song from the 2013 studio album “AM” by the English rock band Arctic Monkeys. All tracks in the album were written by frontman Alex Turner, who has been lauded for being a sort of genius in finding rhyme in unexpected places between words. “One For The Road” is a rock track with bluesy layers featuring backing vocals from producer Josh Homme. It starts with high-pitched woo-woo’s from the band drummer Matt Helders, joined by the intro guitar riff and hard drum beats. “Will you pour me one for the road?” asks the song, a prelude to something or a final drink before a trip.

36. Run Away With Me by Carly Rae Jepsen

Canadian artist Carly Rae Jepsen released “Run Away With Me” in 2015, the second single off her album “Emotion.” Bursting with synth, this dance-pop track is a departure from Jepsen’s earlier bubblegum pop leanings, such as in the song “I Really Like You.” Jepsen’s sultry vocals match well with the song’s synth and saxophone layers, crooning about running away with someone “when the lights go out.” The song was a runaway hit (pun intended) with music critics, with Jepsen being lauded for her marked improvement as an artist, likewise for her ability to evoke feelings from words in a song.

37. Shut Up And Drive by Rihanna

Rihanna released “Shut Up And Drive” in 2007 from her third studio album “Shut Up And Drive.” The song is upbeat and New Wave, with the 1970s and 1980s musical influences including a sample of New Order’s 1983 single “Blue Monday.” True to the song’s title, it incorporates layered guitars made to sound like zooming cars. Critics have called the lyrics fluffy and goofy. With a descriptive story, the song likens the search for a lover to find a driver who could step up, though a simpler read would be about zipping down the road like it’s a racetrack, taking a ride in a fast car.

38. California Gurls by Katy Perry

Recorded by American singer Katy Perry and featuring rapper Snoop Dogg, “California Gurls” is an ode to California, where both artists were born and raised. Perry has mentioned that this is their answer to “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys, which in turn is an ode to New York. Bubblegum, disco pop with electropop and new wave influences, the song was named the summer anthem upon its release in 2010. “You could travel the world, but nothing comes close to the golden coast,” the song boasts, promising heavenly views, fun parties, and unforgettable people in Perry’s beloved California.

39. Come Away With Me by Norah Jones

American singer and pianist Norah Jones burst into the scene with the slow, piano-led tune “Come Away With Me.” Hailing from her Grammy Award-winning debut album of the same name, the song was featured in the soundtrack of the film “Maid In Manhattan,” a romantic comedy led by Jennifer Lopez and Ralph Fiennes. The lyrics invite someone to “come away in the night,” may it be via bus, or a walk, on a cloudy day, or up the mountaintop. The song and the rest of the album deliver acoustic pop, with jazz, blues, soul, and funk influences, dominated by Jones’ alluring voice.

40. Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty

American rockstar Tom Petty’s solo debut album featured the lead track “Free Fallin’,” released in 1989. The song was created by Petty and English singer Jeff Lynne, who also does backing vocals for the track. Famously covered by John Mayer in his album “Where The Light Is,” it is one of Petty’s most recognized tracks and is also considered his best. The lyrics make references to the San Fernando Valley and were reportedly written not about a particular person but rather about the view he enjoyed in his frequent drives in the area. The echoes of “now I’m free, free falling” with the folksy guitar paint a vivid picture of such a drive.

41. I Left My Heart in San Francisco by Tony Bennett

“I Left My Heart in San Francisco” is considered the signature song of traditional American pop and big band legend Tony Bennett. Released in 1962, the song is considered a cultural heritage and is one of the official songs of the city. Songwriter Douglass Cross imagined two lonely writers in Manhattan missing San Francisco, and thus the lyrics speak of wandering in Paris, Rome, and Manhattan, and despite recognizing the beauty of these places, the heart still misses the cable cars, the golden sun, and the blue, windy sea. It is a song about traveling home, probably the sweetest journey there is.

42. Cups by Anna Kendrick

The musical comedy film “Pitch Perfect” was a cult hit when it was released in 2012, highlighting Anna Kendrick’s prowess as a lead actress and a musical performer. Kendrick performed the song “Cups” in the movie while playing a cup game that served as the song’s grounding percussion. A folk-pop song, “Cups,” incorporates lyrics from the 1931 song “When I’m Gone” by the folk group the Carter family. Kendrick’s version blends folk guitar stirrings with xylophones, handclaps, and the beat of the cup against a surface. The lyrics speak about leaving for a trip to the mountains, to rivers, to see the views, and how the singer will be missed while she is away.

43. Fearless by Taylor Swift

From the 2010 album of the same name, “Fearless” was written by pop superstar Taylor Swift while on tour. In this country pop and pop rock track, Swift explores the feeling of diving headfirst and taking the courage to fall in love, set against the backdrop of a perfect first date, going on a drive with someone special. Swift released what she calls “Taylor’s version” of the song and the album in her efforts to re-record her music following a dispute with her previous record label. The song has been praised for its musicality and production, joining the ranks of hits in Taylor’s acclaimed discography.

44. Africa by Toto

The song “Africa” hails from the album “Toto IV” by the American rock band Toto. Released in 1982 to praise and acclaim, the song experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, spurred in part by a cover done by American rock band Weezer. The song was created by David Paich, Toto’s principal song maker, who had shared that the initial idea was about a person’s love for Africa. While Paich himself had not been to Africa at the time, the song was based on documentaries he’d seen of the place and was also inspired by how his teachers had done missionary work in Africa.

45. Malibu by Miley Cyrus

The track “Malibu” is the lead single from the album “Younger Now,” the sixth from Miley Cyrus. The country-pop star was previously known for upbeat tracks. “Malibu” shows a departure from this, with the mellow track led by guitars and Cyrus’s solemn voice. Written by Cyrus, the track is about her then-fiance, Liam Hemsworth, which she describes as the freedom in “finding a new love in an old love”, told through lyrics that describe the beauty of the waters and sunset of Malibu. The song has been described as SoCal soft rock, a calm, subdued track that sounds stripped back and pure.

46. Passenger Seat by Stephen Speaks

American acoustic pop-rock band Stephen Speaks is best known for singles such as “Out of My League” and “Passenger Seat.” From the band’s debut studio album “No More Doubt,” “Passenger Seat” is an ear-friendly acoustic number, mellow and sweet from its guitar riffs to the soft, breezy melody. The song speaks of the consuming feeling of being in love and describes it as going on a drive with one’s beloved and knowing that in their company, everything in life is complete and alright. A romance tale at its core, the band shares that the song was also inspired by Song of Songs from the Bible.

47. On The Road Again by Willie Nelson

“On The Road Again” is one of the most popular songs by country rock singer Willie Nelson. Nelson was starring in the romantic drama film “Honeysuckle Rose,” about an aging musician who had failed to achieve fame, and was asked to write a song to go with the film. The output is “On The Road Again,” a charming country rock ditty describing the joys and thrills of an artist hitting the road to perform and meet friends. The song had a recent refresh when Nelson recorded it as a duet with Canadian rock artist Alanis Morissette, released together with the announcement of Morissette’s 2022 tour.

Related Article: Songs About Starting Over

48. Big Sur by Alanis Morissette

Alanis Morrisette has been well known as the pop-grunge queen of the era thanks to her genre-defining 1995 album, “Jagged Little Pill.” The Canadian-American artist’s musicality has evolved since then, evident in her eighth studio effort, “Havoc and Bright Lights,” and its bonus song, “Big Sur.” Softer, mellower, and less angry confessional, “Big Sur” takes the listener down Highway One, down roads leading to the surf and sea of Big Sur, “enthralled by the redwoods.” The beat is gentle, matched by Alanis’ vocals. Co-written by Alanis with Guy Sigsworth, she notes the song as her “ode to Big Sur with all its majesty.”

49. Malibu Nights by LANY

Music and travel provide comfort in the darkest days. Such was exhibited in the album “Malibu Night” from pop rock indie darlings LANY. Band member Paul Jason Klein shared having his “heart completely shattered” following his breakup with fellow artist Dua Lipa, and thus he turned to music. Like the rest of the songs in the album, the same-named track “Malibu Nights” was first written on the piano, and it retains soft melodies with Klein’s raw vocals. The song speaks of the depth of loneliness of losing someone and resolves to chase it away on a drive, “chasing Malibu nights.”

50. Home by Phillip Phillips

American Idol winner Phillip Phillips hit the road and the charts with his debut and coronation single “Home.” Released in 2012, the folk-rock track was made fit for the artist and his signature raspy voice and impressive skill with the guitar. The song features a bright tempo and an upbeat message. Co-writer Greg Holden shared how it is about reaching out to a friend who is going through a difficult time, described by going down an unfamiliar road together, with the promise that one is not alone. A commercial success, “Home” broke records and became the best-selling Idol coronation song.

51. (Get Your Kicks On) Route 66 by Nat King Cole

A jazz classic, “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66” by Nat King Cole, has withstood the test of time as a road trip song. Initially released as a single in 1946, wherein it climbed the charts, the track was since included in Cole’s albums “After Midnight” and “The Nat King Cole Story.” Considered a timeless masterpiece and jazz standard, the song was spurred by a cross-country drive from Pennsylvania to California. The 10-day journey inspired songwriter Bobby Troup; hence the lyrics mention places on the way from Missouri, Amarillo, New Mexico, to San Bernandino, as the tale of the drive heads to California.

52. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

Singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman released the song “Fast Car” as the lead single of her self-titled debut album. Her performance in Nelson Mandela’s 70th birthday tribute concert brought notice to the song, boosting its popularity. With powerful words set against folk rock strummings, Chapman sings of a gritty yet hopeful narrative of lifting oneself out of current circumstances, set against a journey into the city. “You’ve got a fast car,” the song begins. “Any place is better / Starting from zero got nothing to lose / Maybe we’ll make something.” “Fast Car” received four Grammy nominations, winning Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for Chapman.

53. I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

The song has literally been everywhere with its versions and recordings through the years. Written by Australian country singer Geoff Mack in 1959, the original lyrics to “I’ve Been Everywhere” spoke of one’s journey that went through Australian towns. Since then, the song versions have highlighted places in Western Australia, North America, New Zealand, Great Britain, Ireland, and even Texas. A popular recording is one by country rocker Johnny Cash, who released the song as part of his 1996 album “Unchained.” No matter which version you choose for your travel playlist, the fun, springy track of a winding adventure is surely good company.

54. Road To Nowhere by Talking Heads

“Road To Nowhere” by Talking Heads was written by band member and principal songwriter David Byrne. Included in the rock band’s 1985 album “Little Creatures,” the song starts with the intro by a gospel choir, and then the synths and guitars come in, setting up a joyful tune. Introspective and hopeful, the lyrics explore the feeling of both knowing and not knowing. It can be seen as something that applies to both travel and life when you think you might know where the road leads and what came before it, but not much is certain. Byrne has described the song as a “resigned, even joyful look at doom.”

55. Midnight Train To Georgia by Gladys Knight & The Pips

“Midnight Train to Georgia” is a Grammy-winning song by Gladys Knight & the Pips, known as Knight’s signature song. Before Georgia, it was a “Midnight Train to Houston,” based on a conversation that songwriter Jim Weatherly had with actress Farrah Fawcett. The Georgia version was eventually recorded by Knight, a soulful R&B track with lyrics about leaving, getting up, and taking the trip back to a simpler time and place. Versus the travel songs that inspire the listener to venture into the great unknown, this song speaks of taking stock of dreams chased and deciding to head back and recuperate.

Related Article: Great Songs About Searching

56. Wherever You Will Go by The Calling

Post-grunge band The Calling burst into the scene with the song “Wherever You Will Go.” Off their 2001 debut album “Camino Palmero,” the track proved to be a success, hitting to top of the charts in several countries and making it the band’s most famous track. Brought to life by the bold, strong voice of lead vocalist Alex Band and driven by electric guitars, the song is both a promise and a request to be with someone, wherever that may be. Traveling alone can be wonderful as much as it can be lonely, and this song can be a fortifying soundtrack to such a journey.

57. Somewhere Only We Know by Keane

Conceptualized as the kind of song one will enjoy on a drive, “Somewhere Only We Know” is a hit song by the English alternative rock band Keane. A piano rock song, lead singer Tom Chaplin’s vocals soar over the hammering of piano keys. The lyrics inspire a circling back moment, evoking the feeling of having traveled for so long and the weight of such a journey, and then leading to questioning the things that are there. The band members share that although they created the song after returning to the small town of Battle from London, the message can be interpreted as referring to any place or emotion.

And as always, let us know if there are any songs we should add to this list in the comments section below.

Hi, my name is Kevin and I’m from Butler, Pennsylvania. I’ve been obsessed with music and audio gear for as long as I can remember. I started this website to help people find professional advice related to a wide range of audio topics. We have a number of Audio Engineers on our team who have been designing and fixing audio gear for decades.

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45 Best Songs About Traveling and Experiencing the World

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Looking for songs about traveling that make you excited to see the world?

Traveling makes people happy . It’s one way of understanding yourself , life, and the world.

Embark on a trip with us today where we share a collection of songs that capture the essence of travel .

The songs in this collection highlight the exciting prospect of experiencing something new , the thrill of adventure , and the anticipation that anything is possible .

You may also find that some of the songs featured today allow you to travel back in time. They envelope you in a sense of nostalgia, bringing up memories of travels you’ve enjoyed before.

If you’re ready, pack up your things and let’s check out the songs we’ve found for you.

Table of Contents

1. Roads Go Ever On , Clamavi De Profundis

“ The Road goes ever on and on, down from the door where it began. Now far ahead the Road has gone, and I must follow, if I can. ”

Let’s begin with a song inspired by poems written by J. R. R. Tolkien for his Middle Earth stories.

According to Clamavi De Profundis, “ This is a compilation of poems that J.R.R. Tolkein wrote throughout his books: the first stanza coming from The Fellowship of the Ring, the middle two stanzas from The Hobbit, and the last from the Return of the King. We took a creative approach to this, sort of weaving in the tale of Bilbo, since it is he around whom most of this text is centered. ”

2. Anywhere , Rita Ora

“ Over the hills and far away, a million miles from L.A. Just anywhere away with you. I know we've got to get away someplace where no one knows our name. We'll find the start of something new. ”

First released in 2018, this upbeat song is an awesome addition to your travel playlist.

The narrator is tired of seeing the same old city and wishes to get away with her beloved. The destination isn’t important, she just wants them to be together, wherever they end up going.

3. The City of New Orleans , Arlo Guthrie

“ Nighttime on the City of New Orleans. Changing cars in Memphis, Tennessee. Halfway home, we'll be there by morning. Through the Mississippi darkness, rolling down to the sea. ”

Here’s a song that evokes feelings nostalgia for the old times, when people weren’t always in a hurry and everything seemed simpler.

The song is an ode to train travel, which began to disappear from America toward the end of the 20 th century.

There was an actual train called City of New Orleans that made trips between Chicago and Louisiana. Steve Goodman, who composed the song, was a passenger on the train on its last journey before it was decommissioned.

4. Roam , The B-52’s

“ Roam if you want to. Roam around the world. Roam if you want to. Without anything but the love we feel. ”

Need a happy song to keep the vibe cheerful during your travels? Here’s a song that urges you to get out there and check out what the world has to offer.

5. Traveling On , Kongos

“ So long, my flame, my warmth, my fear, my fight. The road's calling again tonight. Maybe I'll catch a train to Rome. See the world until I can't go on. Or maybe I'll come traveling home. ”

Here’s a song about being unable to resist wanderlust. One must answer the call to travel and leave everything else behind.

6. Wanderlust , Frank Turner

“ Darling, I'm leaving. The distance keeps calling me on. Darling, come morning, I'll be gone. ”

Here’s another song that pays tribute to wanderlust. This song from Frank Turner is about a man who can’t resist the call of the road, saying goodbye in advance to his lover, telling her it’s most likely he’ll be gone by morning.

7. Good Life , OneRepublic

“ To my friends in New York, I say hello. My friends in L.A., they don't know where I've been for the past few years or so. Paris to China to Colorado. ”

This song is about meeting friends in different parts of the world. It’s a celebration of the freedom to constantly travel in order to grow and learn.

8. On the Road Again , Willie Nelson

“ On the road again. Goin' places that I've never been. Seein' things that I may never see again. And I can't wait to get on the road again. ”

Here’s a song about a touring musician who loves what he does. Performing and traveling to do it make him feel alive.

Play this song for good vibes on your own travels.

9. I’ve Been Everywhere , Johnny Cash

“ …I've been everywhere, man. Crossed the deserts bare, man. I've breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel I've had my share, man. I've been everywhere. ”

What places have you already visited? Which ones are your favorites?

Here’s a song about an intrepid traveler. A large portion of the song recounts all the places he’s been to.

10. Leaving on a Jet Plane , Chantal Kreviazuk

“ All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go. I'm standing here outside your door. I hate to wake you up to say goodbye. But the dawn is breaking, it's early morn. The taxi's waiting, he's blowin' his horn. Already I'm so lonesome I could die. ”

This song is a cover of John Denver’s iconic goodbye song, and it is part of the soundtrack for the movie Armageddon . In it, a lover bids farewell to their beloved, not sure when they’ll see each other again.

11. Anywhere , Passenger

“ If you get up in a jet plane or down in a submarine. If you get onto the next train to somewhere you never been. If you wanna ride in a fast car and feel the wind in your hair. Darling, just look beside you. Oh, I'll go with you anywhere. ”

Traveling is more fun when we’re with people we love. Here’s a song that serves as an invitation for you to travel with the person you love the most.

12. Road Trippin’ , Red Hot Chili Peppers

“ Road trippin' with my two favorite allies. Fully loaded, we got snacks and supplies. It's time to leave this town. It's time to steal away. Let's go get lost anywhere in the USA. Let's go get lost. Let's go get lost. ”

Looking for a mellow road trip song? This song from RHCP fits the bill. It is about the band’s own road trip.

13. Explore the World , Brainheart ft. Sis

“ Explore the world in your way. Create memories that you won't forget. You only live once, so don't waste your time. Please don't waste your time. ”

Life is short, and this song understands that.

It appeals to the principle that you only live once (YOLO) and encourages you to experience everything the world has to offer, and explore as much as you can.

14. The Open Road , Hollow Coves

“ It's been years since I've been gone. I miss the way it feels to roam. This urge that's grown inside my heart to pack my bags and hit the road. ”

Sometimes, the urge to travel hits just when you’ve decided it’s time to settle down.

You may have established a good reputation for yourself in your community. Perhaps, you’re raising a family or flying high in a fulfilling career.

But suddenly, it’s as if the road calls you to go on new adventures.

This is the case for the narrator in this song. If you were in his shoes, what would you do?

15. Traveler , Chris Stapleton

“ And I'm just a traveler on this earth. Sure as my heart's behind the pocket of my shirt, I'll just keep rollin' 'til I'm in the dirt. ‘Cause I'm a traveler. Oh, I'm a traveler. ”

This song won a Grammy for Best Country Solo Performance.

Chris Stapleton was inspired to write this song after his father passed away in 2013. According to him, this song is about the cycle of life we all go through.

16. Little Wanderer , Death Cab For Cutie

“ You sent a photo out your window of Tokyo. Told me you were doing fine. You said the cherry blossoms were blooming. And that I was on your mind. ”

This song depicts a situation where one of the partners has wanderlust. The other one insists on being the lighthouse to his wanderer.

17. Barcelona , Ed Sheeran

“ And you and I we're flying on an airplane tonight. We're going somewhere where the sun is shining bright. Just close your eyes and let's pretend we're dancing in the street in Barcelona… ”

Travel to foreign countries can elevate the feeling of romance. In this song, a couple dancing together imagines they’re in Barcelona.

The references to cultural landmarks in that city give the couple’s time together an exotic appeal. It also sets the mood for a very romantic evening for the two of them.

18. Sleep on the Floor , The Lumineers

“ Pack yourself a toothbrush, dear. Pack yourself a favorite blouse. Take a withdrawal slip. Take all of your savings out. ‘Cause if we don't leave this town, we might never make it out. ”

This song encourages listeners to embrace impulsivity. It tells you that adventure awaits those who are brave of heart .

19. Hard Travelin’ , Woody Guthrie

“ I've been havin' some hard travelin', I thought you knowed. I've been havin' some hard travelin', way down the road. ”

Traveling is often associated with going to exotic places and experiencing local cultures. But this is typically only possible for those who can afford it.

This song is not about vacations or holidays overseas. It’s about workers who travel for their livelihood.

Although most people focus on the romantic side of the traveling life, this song highlights the struggles of the workers traveling to make a living.

20. Malibu , Hole

“ Hey, hey, you know what to do. Oh, baby, drive away to Malibu. ”

Travel can be a form of healing . This song is about going to a healing place, away from negativity. It makes you think of sunrise and being reborn.

21. (Motor) Way of Life , Lower Than Atlantis

“ And we are miles away from the place where we're playing. We won't abide by the law. We are lads on tour. ”

A lot of musicians are inspired to write songs about their life while touring. In this song, Lower Than Atlantis describes the gritty reality of the life of a touring band.

22. California Bound , Carolina Liar

“ There's a southern bound train tomorrow. Takes us out of this dirty town. Chase the sun back to the west coast. In eight hours we're California bound. We're California bound. ”

Sometimes, being stuck in a place where you feel limited can inspire you to travel. This song is about escaping a dead-end place to go to sun-drenched California.

23. Carolina in My Mind , James Taylor

“ In my mind, I'm gone to Carolina. Can't you see the sunshine? Now can't you just feel the moonshine? And ain't it just like a friend of mine to hit me from behind? Yes, I'm gone to Carolina in my mind. ”

Homesickness can sometimes encourage a person to travel and go back home. In this song, the narrator dreams of going back to his home state and experiencing the things that he misses the most while he’s away.

24. I Have Been Around the World , Dar Williams

“ I have been around the world. There's so much there to see. And the story never ends. You're all the world to me. ”

There are people who travel from place to place because they’re searching for something. Perhaps it’s a place they can call home, or a person who they think will complete their life.

In this song, a person with wanderlust travels all over the world and experiences many wonders. However, she’s not satisfied. Only after meeting someone does she realize where home truly is.

25. Travel the World Song , Spookiz

“ Let's go to Rio, Paris, Tokyo. Paris, Tokyo, Berlin, New York and Mexico. We see Ibiza, Seoul, Beijing and Rome. Travel 'round the world, come on, let's go. ”

Here’s an upbeat song about travel that will give you good vibes during your trip. Its joyful melody encourages you to travel to the places you want to see.

If you need a cheerful song that leads you out of your comfort zone into exciting experiences, this song’s for you!

26. Happy Trails , Roy Rogers

“ Happy trails to you, until we meet again. Happy trails to you. Keep smiling until then. ”

This is a blessing for those on the road. With so many things that could go wrong during your travels, it’s nice to know that there are those who wish you well.

27. White Line Fever , Merle Haggard

“ I wonder just what makes a man keep pushing on. What makes me keep on hummin' this old highway song. I've been from coast to coast a hundred times or more. And I ain't found one single place where I ain't been before. ”

Do you ever wonder what it feels like to live your entire life on the road, answering the call of wanderlust and never settling anywhere?

“White line fever” is a term for the state of mind many car drivers have after traveling for an extended period of time. While in the grip of white line fever, a driver may manage to drive safely without remembering that they’ve done so.

28. Africa , Toto

“ I bless the rains down in Africa. Gonna take some time to do the things we never had. ”

Here’s a classic song to remind you that when you travel, it’s more than just seeing exotic places and learning about new cultures. It helps you develop a deep love and appreciation for the diversity around you.

29. Every Day Is a Winding Road , Sheryl Crow

“ Every day is a winding road. I get a little bit closer. Every day is a faded sign. I get a little bit closer to feeling fine. ”

This song teaches us to cherish every second of our lives— to live mindfully . In it, a hitchhiker’s trip aboard a guy’s truck is a metaphor for life—full of twists and turns. Sometimes, it has unexpected stops and detours.

30. Marrakesh Express , Crosby, Stills, and Nash

“ Looking at the world through the sunset in your eyes. Travelling the train through clear Moroccan skies. ”

If you’re stuck in a rut, traveling can help you gain a fresh perspective. A trip, especially to a foreign place, encourages you to get out of your comfort zone

This song is about what happens when you step out of your comfort zone. You start noticing interesting things that add richness to your travel experience.

31. Paris, Texas , Lana Del Rey

“ I went to Paris (Texas) with a suitcase in my hand. I had to leave. Knew they wouldn't understand. ”

Sometimes, we take a trip to get away from painful memories or experiences. Here’s a song that describes this type of healing journey.

The song also plays on the names of the American cities mentioned in the lyrics. When you hear the names, you might think of their European namesakes. At first, it seems like the narrator is traveling overseas. But as it turns out, the narrator didn’t have to travel that far.

32. Mountain Trip to Japan, 1959 , The Trachtenburg Family Sideshow Players

“ Mountain trip to Japan. Going to see the mountains on a mountain trip. He's a very fine man. He is so well rounded and he'd like to see the world before it ever started. ”

Here’s a cheery, quirky, catchy song you can play on a road trip. I can almost guarantee that you’ll find this song stuck in your head for days!

33. Paris Nights/New York Mornings , Corinne Bailey Rae

“ Ooh, we crash into love-filled nights (Paris nights and New York mornings). ”

This song describes the exhilaration of traveling to new places. It also highlights the romance and excitement of experiencing what these new places have to offer.

34. No Roots , Alice Merton

“ I build a home and wait for someone to tear it down. Then pack it up in boxes, head for the next town running. ‘Cause I've got memories and travel like gypsies in the night. And a thousand times I've seen this road… ”

This catchy, upbeat song actually belies the sad origin of the lyrics. This song is about someone who does not feel they have a place to call home, as she’s constantly moving from place to place.

Alice Merton drew inspiration for her hit single from her personal experience of having a nomadic lifestyle. By the time she was 24, she had moved 12 times .

35. The Longest Road , Morgan Page

“ Giddy up and gold mine. Different place, different time. All the stars are in their prime. Pastel trailer park, stars so bright to hide the dark. All is quiet in the yard. ”

The primary concept of this song is the desert. It evokes images of long trips and being surrounded by a desolate landscape.

36. Vienna , Billy Joel

“ When will you realize Vienna waits for you? ”

In this song, Vienna serves as a metaphor for the rest of your life. The song asks listeners, “When are you going to start living your life?”

37. Midnight Memories , One Direction

“ Straight off the plane to a new hotel. Just touched down, you could never tell. ”

This song describes a group of young jetsetters ready to party wherever they land. It highlights making memories and living life to the fullest.

38. On the Road to Find Out , Yusuf/Cat Stevens

“ Well, I hit the rowdy road and many kinds I met there. Many stories told me of the way to get there. So on and on I go, the seconds tick the time out. There’s so much left to know, and I’m on the road to find out. ”

This song is about traveling “in search of freedom and purity.” The narrator is spurred forward by his hunger for spiritual balance.

39. New Horizons (Ultima Thule Mix) , Brian May

“ New horizons to explore. New horizons no one's ever seen before. Limitless wonders in a never ending sky. We may never, never reach them. That's why we have to try. ”

So far, the songs in this collection have been about traveling in different places within the planet. But here’s a song about traveling beyond our world.

It is about traveling to and exploring new places in outer space. It might not be long before commercial space travel is available to humans!

40. Highway Song , Blackfoot

“ It's a highway song. You sing it on and on. On and on. Highway song is as lonely as the road I'm on. ”

This song is about a musician on tour. He feels lonely and homesick.

However, the exhilaration of performing and being on the road prevents him from going home.

41. Hotel California , Eagles

“ On a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair. Warm smell of colitas rising up through the air. Up ahead in the distance, I saw a shimmering light. My head grew heavy and my sight grew dim. I had to stop for the night. ”

Many travelers report having at least one strange experience during their travels. Have you had one?

In this iconic song, a wayward traveler discovers dark secrets in a hotel set in the desert.

42. Trains, Boats, and Planes , Dionne Warwick

“ Trains and boats and planes are passing by. They mean a trip to Paris or Rome for someone else, but not for me. The trains and the boats and planes took you away, away from me. ”

What’s your favorite mode of transportation when going on long trips?

In this song, almost all modes of transportation are seen in a negative light by a woman who was left by a man eager to see the world.

43. The Love Boat Theme , Jack Jones

“ The Love Boat soon will be making another run. The Love Boat promises something for everyone. Set a course for adventure. Your mind on a new romance. ”

The Love Boat is a TV show that aired from 1977 to 1986. It is about the hilarious romantic experiences of the crew and passengers of the cruise ship MS Pacific Princess .

The show has a theme song that highlights the possibilities of romance and adventure while on board the love boat.

44. Lost in Japan , Shawn Mendes

“ Do you got plans tonight? I'm a couple hundred miles from Japan, and I, I was thinking I could fly to your hotel tonight 'cause I-I-I can't get you off my mind. ”

This song is about traveling for the sake of love. In it, Mendes shows his commitment to his beloved by offering to fly to Japan so that they can be together.

45. Hitch Hike , Marvin Gaye

“ I've got to find that girl if I have to hitchhike 'round the world. ”

In the same vein as the previous song, a guy hitchhikes all across the country, determined to find his girlfriend, even though the girl’s been unfaithful to him.

Final Thoughts on Songs About Traveling

Each time you pack your bags and head to new places, you become a new person.

Traveling is one of the best ways for you to grow in wisdom and experience. It helps you develop a deeper understanding of yourself , the world, and life in general.

Hopefully, you’ve found a favorite or two among the songs about traveling featured in this collection.

If you enjoyed this article, you might want to check out the following articles of song collections for specific topics:

• 57 Best Songs About Home: Leaving, Missing, and Coming Home
• 43 Best Songs About Happiness and Good Times
• 33 Best Songs About Family & Being with Loved Ones

Best Travel Songs For 2022

by Trip Advisor | Family Travel

If you’re planning to travel in 2022, then this is a perfect time to start planning your trip. You can research the best places to visit and the best time to go there. But, in order to get the most out of your vacation, you’ll want to plan the best songs to listen to. If you’re planning a solo trip, then you can easily find music on your own. However, if you’re traveling with a group, you’ll need to do some research about best travel background music. You can use the Internet to search for the best travel songs.

How To Choose The Best Travel Song

This article explains the importance of choosing the right travelling music for your travel video and provides you with a few simple tips to help you pick the perfect song.

When you are picking your travel music, you should choose one that will make your video interesting and fun. You should also pick a song that will remind you of your trip. For example, if you are going on a trip to a beach, pick a song that is about the beach. Also, make sure that the song is appropriate for your travel video. You don’t want to pick a song that is too loud or too soft. The best thing to do is to play a song that you like and then see if it works for your travel video.

How To Listen To A Travel Song

This post is about listening to music while travelling. We will show you how to use an iPhone or Android app to listen to songs from your phone while you travel, and we will explain how to make sure that you are not disturbing your fellow passengers.

We all know that it is important to listen to good music while travelling. You can do this by using your iPhone or Android phone. You can even use a Bluetooth headset to listen to your favorite songs. You can also play music from your computer using your headphones or speakers. The best way to listen to music is to use headphones. You can use your phone to play music from your phone’s speaker or earphones. You can also use the speaker on your phone or your laptop. When you are playing music from your computer, you should make sure that you don’t play too loud or too soft. Don’t play music at full volume because you might disturb other passengers. If you are in an airplane, you can use headphones so that you don’t disturb anyone.

Best Songs For Travelling In 2022

This post discusses the best songs for travelling in 2022. You will find out about some of the best songs that can help you travel better and enjoy it more. Here is the list of songs for travelling.

The best songs for travelling are the ones that help you to relax and enjoy the trip. You can listen to them while you are driving or walking around. These songs should be catchy, but not too loud so that you can hear them clearly. You can play these songs on your MP3 player or smartphone. You can also use your headphones.

The first song on the list is “This Land Is Your Land” by Woody Guthrie. This is a famous song that can make you feel good and excited.

The next song is “I’ll Be Home Again” by James Taylor. This song is a very relaxing song.

The next song is “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” by Bob Dylan. This song is very popular and everyone knows this song.

The next song on the list is “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz. It’s a great song for travellers.

The next song is “Hymn for the Weekend” by Mumford and Sons. It’s a great song for relaxing and enjoying the trip.

The next song is “The World Is Yours” by The Chainsmokers. It’s a great song for getting inspired to travel.

The next song is “Love Yourself” by Justin Bieber. It’s a great song for making you feel happy and relaxed.

The next song is “Breathe” by Ariana Grande. It’s a great song for enjoying your time with your friends.

The next song is “Goodbye” by Adele. It’s a great song for saying goodbye to your loved ones.

The next song is “Never Say Goodbye” by The Script. It’s a great song for saying goodbye to your friends.

The next song is “Waves” by Little Mix. It’s a great song for relaxing.

The last song on the list is “All I Want For Christmas” by Mariah Carey. It’s a great song for the holidays.

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The Best Songs about Adventure and Travel

Looking for some great songs about travel and adventure for your next trip? We share some of our favorite road trip songs, and more.

It’s guaranteed that any list of the best songs is going to be controversial. Your musical taste might be entirely different than mine, and I guarantee my 89 year old Mom’s musical preferences are probably different from my 16 year old son.

That said, there are some songs that are so iconic, so ingrained into our culture, that it’s hard to dispute that they’re beloved by many.

Each of these songs is on this list for a different reason. Sometimes the lyrics of a song remind us of adventure and the open road. Sometimes the beat of a song makes it an instant travel song. And sometimes a song reminds us of a time when we were more carefree and life seemed more fun.

Carry On Wayward Son by Kansas

If you’re fans of the TV show Supernatural, like Charles and I are, this next song is a must listen on the road: Carry On Wayward Son by Kansas.

Even though Supernatural ended after 15 fantastic seasons, this song always brings me back to Sam and Dean cruising in Baby, Dean’s 1967 Chevrolet Impala.

Home for a Rest by Spirit of the West

This song is an epic tradition among Charles’ family and friends. It highlights the need for home after too many nights partying on the road.

Whenever a DJ plays it at a wedding dance, or it starts playing on someone’s home playlist, the entire group jumps up and starts singing and dancing. There are a lot of good memories for this song, for sure, plus it’s upbeat and unforgettable and a lot of fun.

Dirty Paws by Of Monsters and Men

Dirty Paws by Of Monsters and Men from the movie The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. It’s actually a folk song that tells the story of how Iceland came to have no bees, because of a war between the bees, birds, and cats.

Send Me On My Way by Rusted Root

The catchy, uplifting Send Me On My Way by Rusted Root always gets me singing along.

This is another 1990’s song, and it may seem familiar since it’s been in plenty of movies and TV shows, including the movie Matilda, iconic TV show Party of Five, Ice Age, and, more recently, the Netflix 2021 TV show Maid.

Roam by the The B-52’s

Speaking of catchy, Roam by the The B-52’s, also from the 1990’s has to be one of the most uplifting travel songs out there.

On Top Of The World by Imagine Dragons

On Top Of The World by Imagine Dragons is one of our kids favorite road trips songs, and we can see why.

It’s uplifting and fun, and sets a lighthearted mood. The song’s hugely popular, and was used in President Obama’s inauguration, video games, movie trailers and soundtracks, as well as on TV.

Africa by Toto

Our kids absolutely love this upbeat, unique 1980’s hit song, so it’s always a must listen on our adventure songs list.

Budapest by George Ezra

Budapest by George Ezra is a long time favorite for everyone in our family. It’s always on our road trip and travel playlists.

Me Gustas Tu by Manu Chao

For something a little different, I like Me Gustas Tu by Manu Chao. It’s a catchy repetitive Spanish song with a little French in the chorus and it’s also a fun way to learn a little Spanish as you travel.

Roughly translated, the opening lines of Me Gustas Tu by Manu Chao start something like this:

Adventure Of A Lifetime by Coldplay

Adventure Of A Lifetime by Coldplay is fun. Honestly, it’s a good song, but not my style. It’s good to have a few dance travel songs on the list. Plus, it has a gorgeous, imaginative video to watch

I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers

A classic party song, this song still gets us tapping our toes. While it isn’t a travel song per say, it does involve walking 500 miles for love and anyone that has had a long distance relationship can sympathize with driving across the country to be with them.

Photograph by Nickelback

Don’t hate on me for including Nickelback. I have my reasons, I promise.

Nickelback is from my home town of Hanna, Alberta, and parts of this music video were filmed near there. For me, this is all about nostalgia. Plus, it’s a fun, catchy song.

Classic travel songs

Some songs are so iconic that they’ve been featured on lists of the best travel songs for decades now. Here are a few of our favorite classic road trip songs.

On the Road Again by Willie Nelson

On the Road Again by Willie Nelson must be on every road trip playlist ever created, and rightly so.

It’s easy to sing along to, with a nostalgic and fun vibe, and it’s perfect for road trips with friends and family.

I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

This song always resonates with us, since we’ve made travel such a big part of our lives. It’s a tough song to sing along to, and I’ve never quite mastered the long list of place names Johnny lists, but it’s fun nonetheless.

Kokomo by The Beach Boys

This one’s perfect for coastal Florida road trips across that beautiful state.

If you’re driving the scenic highway to the beautiful beaches to the Florida Keys , this is the perfect song. Even if you’re buying the best souvenirs at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter near Orlando, this song catches a chill, relaxed vibe we aspire to as we travel.

Travelin’ Man by Ricky Nelson

This song’s a real oldie, from way back in 1961. IT’s catchy and fun, and I always find myself humming the tune the next day.

Songs for a Road Trip Across Canada

As Canadians, we have an unfair advantage in knowing the very best songs for Canadian road trips. We’re fortunate enough to have traveled thousands of kilometers across Canada on the Trans-Canada Highway, and on many of the smaller roads as well.

Here are a few of our favorite tunes for your cross Canada playlist.

Life is a Highway by Tom Cochrane

This is the original from 1991, which became a number one hit in Canada (where Cochrane is from), and not the remake for the Cars movie by Rascal Flatts.

Ahead by a Century by The Tragically Hip

I once heard someone say that you don’t really understand Canada until you understand what The Tragically Hip, and their lead singer, Gord Downie, mean to a generations of Canadians. That may be an exaggeration, but not by much.

Known to Canadians as the Hip, the band is lesser known outside of the country, but all 17 of their albums appeared on the Canadian Billboard Charts . Much of their music has a strong Canadian theme, weaving in social commentary on injustices and on notable past events.

One of my fondest Hip memories is walking down our street, and hearing Gord Downie’s final concert with the Hip blasting from almost every TV set. Downie later died of terminal brain cancer, but will forever remain a Canadian icon.

Bobcaygeon by The Tragically Hip

Like a lot of Hip songs, Bobcaygeon is poetic and the meaning of the song is a bit obscure. It references small town and cottage life in Canada. Bobcaygeon itself is a small town in east-central Ontario. Whatever the lyrics mean, the song itself is typical Hip – lyrical, easy to listen to, and almost anthemic.

Runnin’ Back to Saskatoon by The Guess Who

The Guess Who are another famous Canadian band, but from an earlier generation than the Hip. The Guess Who had most of their hits in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s.

Runnin’ Back to Saskatoon is a great song for a Canadian west coast road trip, as it mentions three places in Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, and small town Moosomin), three cities in Alberta (Red Deer, Medicine Hat and Hanna) and Terrace, British Columbia.

Miles From Our Home by Cowboy Junkies

The title of this song alone marks it as a great road trip song.

Road Regrets by Dan Mangan

This is one of the more obscure gems on this list of great adventure songs. Dan Mangan is a Canadian singer-songwriter, but this song was written about a road trip across the American Southwest .

The TransCanada by The Constantines

If you’re Canadian, or even if you’ve ever driven from one place to another while in Canada then you’ve likely driven a portion of the Trans-Canada highway. Stretching 7,476 km (4,645 mi) across the country from coast to coast it’s goes through 10 provinces and is one of the longest highways in the world.

Starting in Victoria (on Vancouver Island) and ending in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, driving it from start to finish will take you over 78 straight hours if you don’t stop for food or petrol.

Maybe Tomorrow – Littlest Hobo theme song by Jacques Urbont

OK, admittedly the Littlest Hobo theme song is an odd choice for a playlist, but you’re guaranteed a lively response if you play this for a Canadian born before the 80’s.

The song is a little cheesy (well, a lot cheesy), but it’s from an almost universally loved TV show that ran in the early 1980s about a homeless dog that traveled the country, offering help to anyone who needed it. Yep, you read that right, almost every Canadian over the age of 40 (and a lot younger than that) have heard of this.

Sudbury Saturday Night by Stompin’ Tom Connors

Tom Conners was a Canadian folk and country musician, and this song is about the hard-partying social life of those in the mining city of Sudbury, Ontario.

It’s an oldie, released way back in 1967, but it’s still played at weddings and on your parent’s Canadiana playlists.

The Best Songs for Travel Videos

I’ve spent some time recently playing with making more travel videos. It’s a pretty complex process, if you focus on the technical details.

It’s easy to get caught up in the details of choosing the best video converters for mac or PC, choosing the right camera for video, picking the right editing software, or choosing what frame rate and resolution to film.

That said, it’s sometimes better to just slow it down, and think about the basics. Travel videos are about transporting you to a different place and time, and making you feel something. Music is one of the most important elements to bring emotion and feeling to a travel video.

For travel videos for your own private use, any of the songs on this list are a great choice.

If you’re looking for travel video music for commercial use, then you’ll need to find royalty free music to use, or pay for a licensing fee (from a company like Epidemic Sound or Artlist).

Copyrighted music for travel videos

Here are some of the best songs for travel videos that are copyrighted. IF you use these copyrighted songs, you won’t be able to monetize on YouTube and probably won’t be able to upload to Facebook.

Stay Alive by José González

From the movie The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, this song has a relaxed, romantic, moody feel that becomes more uplifting and faster paced as the song continues. It’s great for B roll of gorgeous scenery, and perfect for creating a feeling of movement and emotional uplift through a video.

Novo Amor – From Gold

This song has an ethereal, romantic vibe, making it perfect for cinematic shots.

Royalty Free Music for Travel Videos

Finding good royalty free music for travel and adventure videos can be tough.

YouTube itself does have royalty free music for content creators in the YouTube Audio Library . There are some gems there, for sure, but a lot of it isn’t the best, to be honest, and many of the songs are used over and over on different videos.

There are a few other sources for royalty free travel video music, including Incompetech, Envato Market, and Soundcloud.

The Best Songs about Adventure and Travel Playlist

Want to listen to the best songs about adventure and travel songs back to back? Check out this playlist we’ve created for you. Enjoy!

Did we miss any of your favorite travel songs? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t miss our best audiobooks for road trips !

17 Songs About Exploring and Having Adventures

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Looking for songs about exploring to add to your playlist?

With countries now easing borders after several months of pandemic-driven lockdowns, it’s finally possible to head off on your next adventure.

You are likely looking forward to ticking off some travel and adventure items from your bucket list .

Today, we’re sharing a collection of songs about exploring and embarking on new adventures. We hope these tracks fuel your excitement for new things to discover and places to visit.

But why exactly is it important to explore and go on adventures?

Table of Contents

Why Is It Necessary to Have Adventures?

Adventures have significant benefits for our health, intelligence, and well-being. Here are a few of them:

• Help you develop new perspectives about life, other people, and yourself.
• Sharpen your abilities.
• Help you learn new skills.
• Improve your health, especially if you spend a large part of your adventure outdoors.
• Improve your brainpower, from learning the basics of a new language to brushing up on people skills.
• Bring you closer to your dreams.

It's fun to imagine yourself listening to great music as you're traveling and exploring new places. Even if you're going to a new state like Alaska , Florida , New York or New Jersey .

With that said, here are the tracks we’ve rounded up for your new adventure playlist.

1. The World Ain't Slowin' Down, Ellis Paul

via Ellis Paul – Topic

“ You gotta get gone, you gotta get going. Hey, the world ain't slowing down for no one. It's a carnival callin' out to you. It sounds like a song, hits you like scripture. You paint the picture with colors squeezed from your hand. Weren't you the kid who just climbed on the merry-go-round. Hey look, the world ain't slowing down… ”

If you are having second thoughts about going on an adventure, this song tells you that it’s time to get going because the world is not slowing down.

2. On the Road Again, Willie Nelson

via Willie Nelson

“ And I can't wait to get on the road again. On the road again. Goin' places that I've never been. Seein' things that I may never see again. And I can't wait to get on the road again. ”

For many people, traveling is a way of life. It is what they live for.

If you are one of these people, this song might be a fitting anthem for your traveling lifestyle. It’s written for those who can’t wait to set off to see new places.

3. Drops of Jupiter, Train

“ But tell me, did the wind sweep you off your feet? Did you finally get the chance to dance along the light of day and head back to the Milky Way? And tell me, did Venus blow your mind? Was it everything you wanted to find? And then you miss me while you were looking for yourself out there. ”

This song is about knowing what’s precious in life. Sometimes, to discover what is most important to us, we need to go exploring.

This could involve a metaphorical exploration within, like doing some inner work in order to arrive at our truth. Or it could mean literally going somewhere and exploring that place to see if anything in the culture, the locale, or the experience we have there touches our soul and reveals what we’re looking for.

4. Roam, The B-52s

via The B-52s

“ Roam if you want to. Roam around the world. Roam if you want to, without wings, without wheels. Roam if you want to. Roam around the world…Without anything but the love we feel. ”

This song encourages listeners to roam in any way they want. Considering that international borders are slowly opening up, are there any places in particular that you’d like to visit when you get the chance to travel again?

5. Born to Be Wild, Steppenwolf

via Steppenwolf – Topic

“ Get your motor runnin'. Head out on the highway. Looking for adventure in whatever comes our way. Yeah, darlin', go and make it happen. Take the world in a love embrace. Fire all your guns at once and explode into space. ”

First released in 1968, this song is included in Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 greatest songs of all time . It is about the freedom of the open road.

A number of young people throughout the years have made this song their personal coming-of-age anthem on their quest for adventures.

6. I've Been Everywhere, L.A. Rats

via L.A. Rats

“ I've been everywhere, man. Crossed the deserts bare, man. I've breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel I've had my share, man. I've been everywhere, man. ”

This song is about a man who has traveled to a lot of places. A large portion of the song is a list of all the places that the man has been to.

The original track was composed by Australian country singer Geoff Mack and was first released in 1959. Various singers and musical groups have covered this song throughout the years.

This latest cover was done by L.A. Rats , a “supergroup” formed in mid-2021, whose members have current or former affiliations with famous American bands, such as vocalist Rob Zombie of White Zombie fame.

7. Traveling On, Kongos

via KONGOS / Tokoloshe Records

“ So long, my friend, my foe, my love, my pain. The road's calling out my name. Dreaming of La Boheme. Maybe I'll go to Barbizon. Or see a girl before she catches cold and she's gone. Or maybe I'll just travel on. Travel on. ”

What would you be willing to give up in order to travel? In this song, we meet a person for whom traveling means so much that he willingly gives up everything he has just to be on the road.

8. Catch & Release, Matt Simons

via Matt Simons

“ There's a place I go to where no one knows me. It's not lonely. It's a necessary thing. It's a place I made up, find out what I'm made of. The nights I've stayed up, counting stars and fighting sleep. ”

This song is about inner exploration. With our thoughts, we can create a space where we can just be—where we can discover our true selves .

This can be a place where we can retreat to in order to decompress, regroup, and recover after struggling through the daily grind.

9. Counting Blue Cars, Dishwalla

via Dishwalla

“ Must've been late afternoon. On our way, the sun broke free of the clouds. We count only blue cars, skip the cracks in the street, and ask many questions like children often do. We said: Tell me all your thoughts on God. ‘Cause I'd really like to meet her and ask her why we're who we are. ”

Asking questions is another way of exploring. The answers we fin can often lead us to exciting adventures along unknown and unexpected paths.

This song is about this kind of curiosity that encourages a deeper exploration of the things we often wonder about, such as about God and our purpose in life.

[If you’re interested in finding your “why”, you can check out this article for helpful tips on finding your life’s purpose. ]

10. Fly Away, Lenny Kravitz

via Lenny Kravitz

“ I want to get away. I want to fly away. Yeah, yeah, yeah. ”

For some people, going on an adventure involves more than simply fulfilling what’s on their bucket list . It is their way of reconnecting with life itself.

In this track, Lenny Kravitz sings about his desire to simply get away and just fly. Perhaps you know someone who wishes the same thing?

11. Renegades, X Ambassadors

via X Ambassadors

“ Long live the pioneers, rebels and mutineers. Go forth and have no fear. Come close and lend an ear. ”

This song has a powerful message about not conforming to society’s expectations. The song reclaims the word “renegade” and uses it to mean those who have defied their physical limitations to excel in sports and life in general.

There is an element of adventure in working one’s way to success, despite all the odds stacked against them. The results are often exhilarating and inspiring.

12. Road to Nowhere, Talking Heads

via Talking Heads – Topic

“ We're on a road to nowhere. Come on inside. Takin' that ride to nowhere. We'll take that ride. ”

For many people, life is one big adventure. However, there are others who feel that there is no order to our existence.

This single from Talking Heads is about the feeling that there is really no great significance to anything. However, they’re still willing to experience that adventure.

13. Do You Know Where You're Going To (Mahogany OST), Diana Ross

via Diana Ross

“ Do you know where you're going to? Do you like the things that life is showin' you? Where are you going to? Do you know? ”

If you’re looking for a song about assessing where your explorations and adventures have gotten you so far, this track from Diana Ross is quite appropriate.

It asks you important questions about where you’ve been, your level of satisfaction for what you have right now, and where you’re headed next.

14. Everything Stays, Adventure Time OST

via Cartoon Network

“ Everything stays right where you left it. Everything stays. But still it changes. Ever so slightly, daily and nightly. In little ways, when everything stays. ”

There is a bittersweet reminder for those of us who go on adventures.

This track from Adventure Time reminds us that those that we leave behind also change. Although the change is sometimes nearly imperceptible, it still happens.

For more songs about change, check out this post .

15. Our Adventure, The Long Valley

via The Long Valley – Topic

“ This is our adventure. This isn't our goodbye. It's only the beginning and time is on our side. We can send a postcard. We can drive all night. We can count the stars until the sunrise fills the sky and hides the moon. It's just me and you. ”

Starting new things can feel like an adventure. This song pays tribute to those times in our lives when old things end so we can embark on new ones.

16. On My Way, Phil Collins

via Phil Collins

“ Tell everybody I'm on my way. New friends and new places to see. With blue skies ahead. Yes, I'm on my way. And there's nowhere else that I'd rather be. ”

This song is about the anticipation of going home after being away on an adventure.

You may have made new discoveries and new friends along the way, but there’s nothing more wonderful than coming home and sharing the experiences you had on your journey with your friends and loved ones.

17. Ends of the Earth, Lord Huron

via Lord Huron

“ Oh, there's a river that winds forever. I'm gonna see where it leads. Oh, there's a mountain that no man has mounted. I'm gonna stand on the peak. Out there's a land that time don't command. Wanna be the first to arrive. No time for ponderin' why I'm a-wanderin'. Not while we're both still alive. ”

This song is about someone who is describing all the wondrous places that he’s planning to explore. The places sound exciting, and many of them still uncharted.

The singer does not let anything stop him from embarking on an adventure to find these places.

Final Thoughts

What’s your favorite adventure?

We hope that the songs featured in this collection serve as inspiration to start exploring and going on new adventures again.

The world awaits you.

If you’re interested in other collections of songs for specific topics, here are some that you might like:

• 25 Songs About Home (Leaving and Coming Back)
• 21 Songs About Freedom and Living an Independent Life
• 25 Motivating Songs About Success and Achievement
• 13 Songs About Being Trapped with No Place to Go
• 35 Songs About Finding Happiness and Joy in Life
• 15 Songs About Waiting for Something (or Someone) Important
• 23 Best Songs About Time [Not Enough or Too Much]
• 15 Best Songs About Memories & Remembering Good Times

Finally, if you want to use these songs to make a lasting change to your life, then check out these 100 LIFE GOALS that can help you wake up each morning with a sense of enthusiasm about making progress toward what's important. .

The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust

Written By: The Planet D

Inspiration

Updated On: March 2, 2023

The best travel songs playlist had an outstanding turn out by The Planet D fans.

We wanted to hear, what songs inspire travel, make you think of a destination, or simply make you want to hit the road, so we asked our readers to share their favorite songs about travel.

We had such an awesome response that now have a huge list of the best travel songs as chosen by you ! There were a lot of duplicate votes for but after adding up the choices, these are the top songs.

Table of Contents

The Best Travel Songs Playlist

We took some of our favorite quotes from people when they chose their favorite songs about travel and you can read what they below.

• If you want some more travel inspiration, check out our 101 Ultimate Travel Quotes.
• Looking for a different playlist? We’ve rounded up the best road trip songs to rock the long drive.

If you have a song to add to our playlist leave a comment below. We update this list regularly

1. Africa by Toto

Nothing makes me want to go to Africa more than this song by Toto.

They capture it beautifully with their lyrics and each time I listen to it, I am brought back to camping in the desert listening to the dog crying out in the night.

Or it makes me think of climbing Kilimanjaro towering over the Serengeti. And it has had a renaissance getting a lot of air time.

“The wild dogs cry out in the night As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company I know that I must do what’s right As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become”

Dina Rosita Koudys says “ Not exactly about traveling, but it does mention Africa, Kilimanjaro, and Serengeti. And I love the song!

We replied to Dina saying,  “We think Africa is exactly a travel song. It is our favorite song about travel and makes us want to see the Serengeti again and again.”

2. Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran

Ireland is one of our favorite country’s to visit and when Ed Sheeran wrote about Galway it brought us right back to being in the pubs there.

A lot of playlists omit the modern travel songs, but musicians these days have explored more of the world than anyone. And Ed Sheeran is a huge traveler.

We saw Ed Sheeran on Graham Norton talking about his travels and we love his free spirit and down to earth attitude.

“I meet her on Grafton street right outside of the bar She shared a cigarette with me while her brother played the guitar She asked me what does it mean, the Gaelic ink on your arm? Said it was one of my friend’s songs, do you want to drink on?”

3. One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head

From the Musical Chess, this hit by Murray Head made me want to visit Bangkok in the 1990s.

Whenever I’m in the city, I can’t stop singing it!

“I said, “do you speak-a my language?” He just smiled and gave me a vegemite sandwich And he said I come from a land down under Where beer does flow and men chunder”

4. Land Down Under by Men at Work

When thinking about travel music, this song is at the top for and Australian theme.

Men at work reference the Hippy Trail, muscles in Brussels and a den in Bombay.

All while bonding with people from the Land Down Under. Men at work are from Melbourne , Australia

“Bangkok, Oriental setting And the city don’t know that the city is getting The creme de la creme of the chess world In a show with everything but Yul Brynner”

5. Havana by Camila Cabello

This song takes me to Havana. The groove makes me feel that I am at a lounge in Cuba and I love it.

Even if Camila Cabello is taken to East Atlanta, her heart is always in Havana. Just like so many people feel when they visit Havana too!

Havana, ooh na-na Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh na-na He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na Oh, but my heart is in Havana My heart is in Havana Havana, ooh na-na

6.  Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

This song makes me want to go to the American South.

My favorite lyric is when they mention the recording studio Muscle Shoals.

“Now Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers And they’ve been known to pick a song or two (yes they do) Lord they get me off so much They pick me up when I’m feeling blue, now how bout you?”

After watching the documentary about Muscle Shoals, I now understand what that lyric is all about.

It was the place for rock musicians to record in the 1960s. Rent Muscle Shoals on Amazon

Kathy Bovair  says “ Dave will have my back on this one “SWEET HOME ALABAMA” is the best travel song and an old high school classic from our past” 

7. I’ve Been Everywhere Man by Johnny Cash

Carmen Davis-Harcum said.  “It’s My favourite travel song.” And we agree. I’ve been everywhere is the ultimate travel song!

If you want to add a song to your travel playlist that captures what it’s like to travel around.

I always envisioned this song being about Johnny Cash writing about his life on the road as a traveling musician.

“I’ve been everywhere, man I’ve been everywhere, man Crossed the deserts bare, man I’ve breatherd the mountain air, man Travel, I’ve had my share, man I’ve been everywhere”

He may not have been everywhere int he world, but he has definitely crossed all of the United States and Canada.

I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash does the trick.

 8. Route 66 by Nat King Cole

Route 66 certainly captures the heyday of America’s famous highway running across the country.

It makes me think of simpler (and tougher) times of people hitting the open road with nothing but dreams in their heads.

This song makes me want to get in the car and drive.

“Well if you ever plan to motor west Just take my way it’s the highway that’s the best Get your kicks on Route 66 Well it winds from Chicago to L.A. More than 2000 miles all the way Get your kicks on Route 66″

Trisha Miller  is inspired by Route 66, a trip I have dreamed of for a long time, and someday I will do the entire length in one long, leisurely road trip”

9. Desert Rose – Sting

This song is apparently about when Adam was banished from the garden of Eden.

But when I listen to it, I think of travel and it transports me straight to the Middle East.

“I dream of rain, I dream of gardens in the desert sand I wake in vain, I dream of love as time runs through my hand Sweet desert rose Each of her veils, a secret promise This desert flower No sweet perfume ever tortured me more than this…”

10. Where the Streets Have No Name by U2

The song is inspired by the streets of Ethiopia where there aren’t (or weren’t) any street names.

I remember cycling through Africa and we barely saw a road sign.

At the time, Ireland was still under a lot of civil unrest and Bono wrote about a place where class, religion and income are not indicitve of the street they live on.

“I want to feel sunlight on my face I see that dust cloud disappear without a trace I wanna take shelter from the poison rain Where the streets have no name.”

11. Sympathy For The Devil by The Rolling Stones

Daniel Stein Says “ Sympathy For the Devil makes you want to drive. Who wouldn’t include this in their best travel songs playlist?”

This travel song had the most votes in our survey.

So it had to be on our playlist even though it isn’t really about travel. It does talk about historical events around the world though. 

“I stuck around St. Petersburg When I saw it was a time for a change Killed the czar and his ministers Anastasia screamed in vain” 

12. On the Road Again by Willy Nelson

Diane Grady .” We were camping year’s ago on Vancouver Island and a big motorhome pulled out playing”On the Road Again” through the loudspeakers. It was hilarious .

But you know what, On the Road Again is one of the most popular songs played when hitting the road.

The words alone. I’m on the road again!

13. I Left My Heart In San Francisco by Tony Bennet

Suggested by Katherine Hill who said, “I left my Heart in San Francisco, of course! This song is the epitome of San Francisco.

Travel Songs don’t have to be about going everywhere. They can be about one place and this is the ultimate love story dedicated to San Francisco.

Add it to your playlist on Amazon

14. Montego Bay by Amazulu

Whenever we go to Jamaica we sing this song. It is perfect for travel.

It not only captures the spirit and energy of Jamaica, it explains a lot about the island.

They drive on the island, they drink rum from a silver tray and greet you like a brother would.

“Vernon’ll meet me when the BOAC lands Keys to th M. G. will be in his hands Adjust to the driving ‘n’ I’m on my way It’s all on the right side in Montego Bay

BOAC is a British airplane and I love how they say, “it’s all on the right side, because when you are in Jamaica, you drive British style.

15. Midnight Train To Georgia by Gladys Knight and the Pips

Lauren Mcleod  made this addition to our playlist.

She says “ Even though it’s about heading home instead of away, it sure gets me groovin’ along like I want to leave.”

“The world is his, his and ‘ers alone Oh he’s leavin’ On that midnight train to Georgia (leavin’ on the midnight train) Said he’s goin’ back to find (goin’ back to find) Oh a simpler place in time”

You can also download on Amazon

16. Roam by the B52s

Genelle Gregorio “ Roam “ by the B-52s is a fantastic song for slideshows of your travels and to get you all pumped up about traveling and seeing the world.

“Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without wings, without wheels Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without anything but the love we feel”

In our hearts, aren’t we all roamers at heart?

17. Leaving on a Jet Plane by Chantal Kreviazuk

Jenny Leach “ We love this track when we are traveling . Leaving on a Jet Plane just screams travel song! Famous recordings are from Peter Paul and Mary, and John Denver.

“All my bags are packed I’m ready to go I’m standin’ here outside your door I hate to wake you up to say goodbye”

While the song is more about leaving for work (most likely the life of a rock n roll band, it still makes us think about traveling.

This song has been re-done a lot over the years, our favorite version is from the movie Armageddon  by Chantal Kreviazuk.

18. Kokomo by The Beach Boys

Keith Jenkins of Velvet Escape chose Kokomo. This makes me think of the beach for sure.

What we love about Kokomo is that it is a made up place by the Beach Boys, but it sure makes you want to go there. And it captures the spirit of the islands.

19. Graceland by Paul Simon

Sheri Anderson Wallace  said. “ I love that travel song because it captures all the pieces of a road trip. What could be more of a travel song than a song about road tripping?

We say, it also inspired us to get ourselves to Graceland and see Elvis’ home in Memphis Tennessee.

We’ll never forget visiting Kenya and seeing photographs of Paul Simon at a lodge we stayed at in the Masai Mara. He stayed here with Carry Fisher and it was this place that inspired his music for the album Graceland. I think that was one of the coolest things to see that we stayed at the same lodge.

2 0. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf

Bonnie Paridaen says “ By Steppenwolf Baby!”  Need we say more?

“Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Lookin’ for adventure And whatever comes our way Yeah Darlin’ go make it happen Take the world in a love embrace Fire all of your guns at once And explode into space.”

Born to Be Wild is all about taking a motorcycle trip across the country. The movie isn’t bad either.

21. New York State of Mind by Billie Joel

Merav Benaia  told us that it’s the travel song that makes me want to pack my bag and hop on a flight. (event though it’s about taking the bus)

Some folks like to get away Take a holiday from the neighborhood Hop a flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood But I’m takin’ a Greyhound on the Hudson River line I’m in a New York state of mind

I love New York and this is a love song dedicated to the beautiful State. 

Get New York State of Mind on Amazon

22. Sailing, Christopher Cross

Stephanie Broschart stated. “The lyrics from Sailing totally make for a great travel song.”

It’s not far to never-never land, no reason to pretend And if the wind is right you can find the joy of innocence again Oh, the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see. Believe me.

23. Proud Mary – Tina Turner

Whenever we’re in New Orleans , this is the song that comes to mind. It has amazing energy and gets you in the mood to hop on a riverboat and explore!

Big wheel keep on turnin’ Proud Mary keep on burnin’ Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river

It wasn’t until we took a riverboat tour in New Orleans that we even understood what big wheel keeps on turnin’ meant. It’s the big wheel that propels these riverboats. Cool eh?

24. American Woman by The Guess Who

Lorna Hazen-Francavilla said.  “ It is one of those “roll down the windows and makes crank the tunes kind of songs!”

Even though it is a song about dissing America, a lot of people look at it as a tribute to America. Regardless, it is a song that has a lot of energy.

Check it out on Amazon .

25. Man in the Mirror by Micheal Jackson

Claire Algarme “ I like the beat and the message of the song. It also reminds me to be open to everything I see & meet in my travels and how to be a better person at the end of my journeys.

We love the words of The Man in the Mirror .

Travel creates compassion. It brings people together and it is the best education.

This song empowers that feeling. Through travel we have often been compelled to make a difference.

If you want to make the world a better place Take a look at yourself, and then make a change

26. Kathmandu

When we were in Kathmandu before climbing to Everest Base Camp in Nepal.

This song captures the wanderlust of travel.

“I figure baby I’ve got nothing to lose, I’m tired of being blue, That’s why I’m going to Kathmandu Up to the mountains where I’m going to.”

It’s such a fun song.

Check it out on Amazon

27. London Calling by the Clash

Okay, so it might be an anti travel song, but if you just listen to the chorus, London is calling!

so even though the lyrics are pretty angry and depressing, I always sing it when I go to London.

“The ice age is coming, the sun’s zooming in Meltdown expected, the wheat is growing thin Engines stop running, but I have no fear ‘Cause London is drowning I live by the river”

28. Coming to America by Neil Diamond

I said this in our best road trip songs post, and I’ll say it again, I loved listening to this song while cycling down the continent of Africa .

Coming to America captures the hope and freedom of what was America.

Far We’ve been traveling far Without a home But not without a star Free Only want to be free We huddle close Hang on to a dream

The world looked America for so much when he sang this. Hopefully, it will get it’s welcoming status back again in our life.

But in the meantime, we love listening to Neil Diamond, he is the coolest cat in town.

29. Rambling Man by The Allman Brothers

Voted by – Rasheed Hooda – It’s a classic

“I’m on my way to New Orleans this mornin’ I’m leavin’ out of Nashville, Tennessee They’re always having a good time down on the bayou Lord, them Delta women think the world of me”

30. Laredo by Band of Horses

Catherine Reyes   says.”It has been my favourite of song to inspire travel for the past three months. It’s pretty recent and has that good on the road again feel.

“Gonna take a trip to Laredo Gonna take a dip in the lake Oh, I’m at a crossroads with myself I don’t got no one else”

31. Istanbul not Constantinople by They Might Be Giants

I had never heard this song before watching the Umbrella Academy on Netflix. When I heard it, it was my new favourite travel song.

We’ve been to Istanbul many times and we did know that it was once called Constantinople.

Istanbul was Constantinople Now it’s Istanbul, not Constantinople Been a long time gone, Constantinople Now it’s Turkish delight on a moonlit night

So now whenever we go back, you know we are going to be singing this song. It is so much fun.

Seriously, give it a listen!

And add it to your playlist through Amazon $1.29

32. Carolina on my Mind by James Taylor

I just love James Taylor’s calm and soothing voice. And that is exactly what travel is meant to do – calm and sooth.

A lot of can’t travel right now, but we do go to places in our mind, and this captures that daydreaming part of our lives where we imagine being somewhere else.

“In my mind I’m gone to Carolina Can’t you see the sunshine? Can’t you just feel the moonshine? Ain’t it just like a friend of mine To hit me from behind? Yes, I’m gone to Carolina in my mind.”

33. California Dreaming – Mamas and the Papas

I think we all feel this way about California on a winter’s day:

I’d be safe and warm, If I was in L.A. California Dreaming, On such a winter’s day?

And who doesn’t love the vocal harmonies of the Mamas and the Papas?

Start dreaming and get it now.

33. Bali Eyes – Porno for Pyros

When traveling through South East Asia, we discovered this song and became huge fans of the unplugged version by Porno for Pyros.

Ate a mushroom turned into Bali Didn’t look it just jumped down my throat I was starting to die until I Took a trip to Bali Their eyes are god In a glass full of jelly Bali in my eyes

Once we reached Bali, we couldn’t stop playing this one. I think you’ll like it!

34. Sand in My Shoes – Dido

This song captures how amazing travel can be, but how much of a let down it is when you get home.

“Two weeks away feels like the whole world should have changed, But I’m home now, and things still look the same I think I’ll leave it ’til tomorrow to unpack, Try to forget for one night that I’m back in my flat On the road where the cars never stop going through the night, To a life where I can’t watch the sun set”

35. New York by Alicia Keys

There are so many songs about New York City, we could have created a travel song playlist all about New York alone! (Hey that’s a great idea! )

But we could only choose one and while Frank Sinatra, Beastie Boys, and even New York New York from Guys and Dolls springs to mind, I’m going with Alicia Keys beautiful song about New York.

In New York! Concrete jungle where dreams are made of There’s nothing you can’t do now you’re in New York! These streets will make you feel brand new Big lights will inspire you Now you’re in New York

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Best Travel Songs Playlist. I found a lot of songs I’d never heard of, some old classics and some fun ones too!

Save this list to Pinterest to share these songs about travel.

Do you have a favourite travel song? Share it with us and see if it makes the list!

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• How to Travel the World – The Ultimate Travel Resource

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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25 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust”

Ah these are some great songs! Some old school, some new, it’s perfect! Its pretty much my karaoke list too. Thanks so much for sharing!

Africa by Toto is classic. Its my favourite one :))) Does anyone use a travel itinerary on the worldee? For inspiration?

Please add the Spanish song Ay Carmela to your playlist.

Haha of course Sweet Home Alabama when you are cruising through bama!

Admiring the time and effort you put into your blog and detailed information you offer. This is the first time i am reading your post and admire that you posted article which gives users lot of information regarding particular topic thanks for this share.

This list is as bad as you could do without trying to be the worst… One Jason Mraz is bad enough, but two? And no Canned Heat “Going Up The Country”.

Great suggestion with – going up the Country.

Thank You for this amazing list, A Playlist for Best English, Hindi and Bengali songs for travel is a very tough work and you have done a great work.

Great list, I’m glad I contributed to the list 😀 I like Midnight train to Georgia. I don’t know bunch of the song, but now I need to have this playlist, I want to hear what others suggested! .-= Dina´s last blog ..Top 8 Animal Street Signs from Australia and New Zealand =-.

We are putting a playlist together on playlist.com when we have the final list compiled we will be putting up the playlist as well so everyone can hear. We didn’t know a few of the songs either, they are awesome. Can’t wait until monday when the new post goes out.

That’s cool! Looking forward to having the playlist 🙂

Hey, hows about something a BIT less cheesy though guys n gals. I give you M.Ward’s Paul’s Song, beautifully mournful and full of bittersweet lonesomeness.

‘How does it feel to be travelling, to live your life on the train oand the aeroplane. Well I ain’t gonna lie to you. Well every town is just the same, when you’ve left your heart in the Portland rain.’ Check it out! .-= Jools Stone´s last blog .. Edinburgh TweetUp Hatches =-.

Thanks Jools, Put it on our facebook fan page and we can include it in our list. Sounds like beautiful lyrics, I would love to include it:)

Whoever submitted “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver must be unaware that he perished in an experimental aircraft.

Haha, I forgot about that. Very ironic.

Great idea guys! I found myself spending too much time on YouTube 😉 and realised I have so many favourite travel songs I can hardly choose. I chose New York State of Mind; I think it is obvious it’s been a while since I last visited my one and only NYC. .-= Merav | AllWays Rental´s last blog ..Take the Tranz Alpine Train and Dream a Little =-.

Great list!! we have a theme song not so much a travel song. What do you think?? 🙂 http://gotpassport.org/2010/01/08/our-gotpassport-family-theme-song/ .-= GotPassport´s last blog .. That’s Right We’re Bad We’re Locals OK- Sort Of! =-.

#40 is my favourite on the list… I remember listening to this song watching the sun going down on Caye Caulker in Belize… amazing! .-= Brendan van Son´s last blog ..Fun Fotography on the Salt Flats =-.

Such an awesome list!!! .-= Andi´s last blog ..Love- Head Over Heels For The Amalfi Coast =-.

I’d love to make a second vote for Weather with You — such a great suggestion by Career Break HQ! (Especially because you two are such fundamentally happy people, and it’s a fundamentally happy song. :)) .-= Melanie@TravelsWithTwo´s last blog ..Strolling Through Hacienda Baru =-.

Thanks Melanie. We will be opening votes on the 9th, looks like it might be a winner already:)

My vote is for the Grateful Dead, the most comforting travel music I can think of. Trucking up to Buffalo is the best album for travel. .-= Shawn´s last blog ..FeedBurner’s Delusional Subscription Statistics =-.

Thanks Shawn. I don’t know if you want to enter your song. You still have a week. We need a specific song, sorry not an album and we have to have it on our facebook page to be included in the final list. Sorry, but we have to follow the rules:)

Excellent list of songs, and such a fun contest! I love that people who are submitting their favorites aren’t just pulling them out of thin air – the songs have real meaning to them…..I’ve been enjoying reading all the entries on your Facebook Page. .-= Trisha´s last blog .. Increase Your Travel Writing Exposure and Readership with Syndication =-.

Thanks Trisha, I have to say we are blown away with the song choices. They are so clever, heartfelt and interesting. It puts my post to shame about favorite travel songs. People are coming up with better choices than I ever could have thought of. It really is the ultimate playlist!

The Best Travel Songs for 2022

• by ListenOnRepeat
• April 8, 2022
• No comments
• 8 minute read

Traveling can be one of the best ways to experience new places and meet new people. Whether you are traveling home after a long day of work or on a vacation to explore new places around the world, you need something to keep you entertained throughout the way. The vacations and trips can be long and tiring, even if you’re not doing anything too strenuous. The best way to make these long travels more enjoyable is to have a playlist of songs to overcome the boredom. 

You can always listen to these travel songs to keep you entertained until you reach your destination. In this article, we have curated some of the best songs you can listen to while traveling in 2022. Read on!

Take Me Home, Country Road – John Denver

Take Me Home, Country Road by John Denver is the most iconic travel song of all time. When you are far from home, you long to be taken home. This is what John Denver is trying to say when he sing “take me home, country road / to the place I belong”. This is a song about missing your home you left behind long ago, the country road that you used to walk each day, and the people you miss. Take Me Home, Country Road has been covered by many musicians yet the more you listen to this song, the more you fall in love with it. If you are traveling home after a long time, this is a song for you.

Born to Be Wild – Steppenwolf

Steppenwolf, a rock band founded in 1967 in Los Angeles was most prominent from 1960 – to 1976. They were the face of Rock n’ Roll and sold over 25 million records worldwide during this time. It’s not every day you come across a song that is powerful, moving and has the ability to change people’s lives. Written by Mars Bonfire, “Born to Be Wild” was released in 1968 and immediately topped charts worldwide. To this date, “Born to Be Wild” is considered one of the best rock travel songs of all time.

Fast Cars – Tracy Chapman

Tracy Chapman is an American singer-songwriter who has been recording and performing since the mid-1970s. She became popular with many hit albums in the 1980s, but her folk song “Fast Cars” gave her a big break in 1987 and became popular worldwide. The song tells the story of a girl who meets a male friend, who she can tell is interested in her, at a party. She talks about starting a new life from zero and going somewhere else in the fast car for a fresh start. The song ends with the lines “You gotta make a decision… Leave tonight or live and die this way” asking him to take the decision.

Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Released in the mid-70s by Lynyrd Skynyrd, Sweet Home Alabama is one of the most famous songs in country music . Lynyrd Skynyrd released tons of songs throughout his career but “Sweet Home Alabama” will forever be remembered as the ultimate travel song. The song is primarily made up of bluegrass and country music, with an occasional blues influence. Sweet Home Alabama had a significant impact on the music of the time, and even today it is still a sought-after song by bluegrass and country musicians. 

I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash

Some songs are so great, you just play them again and again. One of these songs is the incredibly catchy “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash. Remember how we like to hymn and sing along with the song when we travel? “I’ve Been Everywhere” has got lyrics, melody, and rhythms that you can’t resist singing. It’s a great song to listen to when you are feeling down or when you just need some motivation. Put on this track when you travel and miles won’t feel like a distance.

Midnight Train to Georgia – Gladys knight & The Pips

“He said he’s going back to find / (Going back to find) / What’s left of his world / The world he left behind / Not so long ago” . Midnight Train To Georgia by Gladys Knight & The Pips opens up the song lyrics capturing the adventures of the narrator when he takes the midnight train to Georgia. T his Grammy-winning song, which also hit #1 in October 1973, is told from the women’s perspective, whose husband is giving up on his dreams of Hollywood stardom and heading back home to Georgia to meet her. 

Ramblin’ Man – The Allman Brothers Band

The Allman Brothers band is one of the most iconic rock bands of all time. They were a band that was able to create multiple genres of music, from rock to funk to country. “Ramblin’ Man” is one the band’s most popular songs from the album “Brothers and Sisters”. The Allman Brothers Band debuted in 1969 and has been around for decades now. But aside from being embraced by music fans all over the world, and joining the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, The Allman Brothers Band has given unforgettable music to us. “Ramblin’ Man” is a song you can pick for your ultimate travel playlist.

Cups – Anna Kendrick

“I got my ticket for the long way ’round / Two bottle o’ whiskey for the way / And I sure would like some sweet company / And I’m leavin’ tomorrow, what do you say? ”. I can’t remember how many times I have listened to this song whenever I’ve gone on a trip. “Cups” by Anna Kendrick is a sweet, melodies and rhyming song that expresses a deep feeling of traveling to somewhere else to chase your dream. However, you don’t want to go alone and want to invite someone to join the journey as Anna Kendrick tries to capture in her song. 

Where The Streets Have No Name – U2

“Where The Streets Have No Name” is one of the most iconic songs ever written. It is a song that is usually associated with peace, love, and the inevitable demise of one’s bad moods. Since U2 originally released the song, it has been covered by many musicians in different genres yet it feels good in every version. The song was released on the album “The Joshua Tree” in 1987 which sold millions of copies worldwide. “With or Without You” and “Where The Streets Have No Name” are two of U2’s best travel songs of the decade.

Shameless – Camila

What makes “Shameless” by Camila Cabello a great travel song? Within just a few days of its release, the song has notched up millions of views. Indeed, ever since “Havana,” along with her more recent collaborations with Shawn Mendes, Cabello has been operating in the world of bonafide superstardom. Interestingly, the tracks that have got here all sport different themes and approaches, while their accompanying visuals stay relatively similar to each other. As far as the lyrics of “Shameless” reveal the meaning behind the song (they are more abstract than in some of her other hits), the track paints Cabello into a predicament. She wants to be with someone, but she can’t, for whatever reason – at one point it is hinted that the person in question is already with someone – and the whole ordeal is driving her positively mad.

Leaving on a Jet Plane – John Denver

John Denver is known for his country-rhymed music and “Leaving on a Jet Plane” is one of his most popular hits from the 90s. The lyrics, chorus, and the touch of country blues are what make “Leaving on a Jet Plane” another great song to listen to while traveling. The song was Denver’s first number-one single on the US country charts and also one of his signature songs. It has been recorded by tons of artists and musicians worldwide and is often considered a country music anthem. It is also featured on Denver’s 1970 album Poems, Prayers, and Promises. The cover of “Leaving on a Jet Plane” recorded by “The Macarons Project” is one of the best that you can listen to. 

Travelin’ Man – Ricky Nelson

Travelin’ Man was released in 1961 and was a critically acclaimed album by singer-songwriter Ricky Nelson. Ricky Nelson is an American pop icon and one of the most popular solo artists of the early 1960s. Ricky’s life and success is a story of never being content with your achievements and always pushing yourself beyond your limits. He is also a man that refused to let his own personal tragedies and setbacks keep him from pushing forward to be the best that he could possibly be. “Travelin’ Man” opens with “ I’m a travelin’ man and I’ve made a lot of stops / All over the world / And in every port, I own the heart / Of at least one lovely girl”. In short, Travelin’ Man is about where he has traveled to and the women loved throughout his journey. 

The Cave – Mumford and Sons

“The Cave” is a song by tee British indie band Mumford & Sons (consisting of lead singer Marcus Mumford, guitarist Winston Marshall, keyboard player Ben Lovett, and bassist Ted Dwayne) released on the 12th of May 2009 as the third single from the band’s debut studio album Sigh No More , released later the same year on the 2nd of October. The song was written by the band and was produced by the British producer and songwriter Markus Dravs, famous for his work with Björk, Coldplay, and Arcade Fire. What makes “The Cave” a great travel song is the way the band has put together all the elements making it easy to sing along on a ride.

Ho Hey – The Lumineers

The Lumineers have always been a band that is known for their amazing sound, but they also have a sound that is uniquely their own. They have a sound that is different in the sense that it is youthful and has a lot of energy to it. Released in 2012, “Ho Hey” was the band’s debut single that went on to be a big hit. The chorus of the song is so good to sing along with when traveling. I belong with you, you belong with me / You’re my sweetheart / I belong with you, you belong with me You’re my sweet / come on, now / (Ho) hey (Hey). 

Binding Lights – The Weeknd

The first release since The Weeknd’s 2018 EP, My Dear Melancholy, “Blinding Lights” has been heard before in a different form including the one in Medieval theme. The Weekend generally makes pretty transferable music. He has been nominated for an Academy Award for his music before, and this song has also been utilized for the new advert for Mercedes-Benz. Upon hearing it, you can see why: “Blinding Lights” definitely has a sense of forwarding motion, and also a sense of nighttime, and would be perfect in accompanying shots of a car shooting down a highway at night, street lights blurred in streaks through the windows.

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Songs About Travel And Adventure

Songs About Travel And Adventure: An Epic Journey through Melodies

Traveling and embarking on new adventures is an exhilarating experience that fills our lives with excitement and wonder. Whether you’re exploring the world or simply daydreaming about faraway lands, music has the power to transport you to unknown realms. In this article, we will delve into a curated list of nine incredible songs about travel and adventure, each with its own unique charm and captivating story. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a musical journey like no other!

1. “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson (1980):

This iconic country song by Willie Nelson perfectly encapsulates the spirit of traveling. With its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, it speaks to the wanderlust within us all. Nelson’s smooth vocals and the harmonica’s twang make this tune an instant classic that will have you yearning for the open road.

2. “Africa” by Toto (1982):

Transport yourself to the heart of Africa with Toto’s timeless hit. With its distinctive intro and ethereal vocals, this song is a true masterpiece. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the African landscape, evoking a sense of adventure and discovery. Let the rhythmic beats and soaring chorus take you on a journey across the vast savannah.

3. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen (1975):

Bruce Springsteen’s anthemic masterpiece, “Born to Run,” is a rock ‘n’ roll ode to freedom and the yearning for escape. With its energetic guitar riffs and Springsteen’s passionate vocals, this song perfectly captures the spirit of youthful rebellion and the desire to break free from the confines of everyday life.

4. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers (1988):

With its irresistible Scottish charm and an infectious chorus, “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” is a road trip anthem that will have you singing along at the top of your lungs. This upbeat tune embodies the excitement of embarking on an adventure with someone you love, as you traverse through miles of unexplored territory.

5. “Ramble On” by Led Zeppelin (1969):

Led Zeppelin’s “Ramble On” combines the elements of rock and folk, creating a whimsical and enchanting soundscape. The lyrics reference J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings,” adding a touch of fantasy to this adventurous tune. The combination of Robert Plant’s soulful vocals and the band’s intricate instrumentation makes it a true masterpiece.

6. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show (2004):

“Wagon Wheel” is a modern-day folk classic that tells the story of a traveler yearning for home. This heartfelt song blends traditional folk elements with a modern twist, creating an irresistible melody that will have you tapping your feet. Let the banjo and fiddle take you on a journey through the old American countryside.

7. “Ventura Highway” by America (1972):

With its breezy guitar strums and harmonious vocals, “Ventura Highway” is a soul-soothing song that will transport you to the sun-drenched highways of California. This timeless tune captures the essence of the open road, inviting you to cruise along the coast with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face.

8. “Paradise” by Coldplay (2011):

“Paradise” is an anthem of hope and escapism, inviting listeners to embark on a journey to find their own personal paradise. Coldplay’s soaring vocals and uplifting melodies create an ethereal atmosphere that will transport you to a world of endless possibilities. Let this song inspire you to chase your dreams and explore the unknown.

9. “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane (1991):

Featured in the animated film “Cars,” “Life is a Highway” is a spirited anthem that celebrates the joys of traveling. This high-energy song is filled with infectious optimism and a driving beat that will have you singing along in no time. So, roll down your windows, crank up the volume, and let the wind carry you to new horizons.

As we venture into the year 2024 and beyond, these songs will continue to inspire and ignite our passion for travel and adventure. Their timeless melodies and evocative lyrics will forever hold the power to transport us to distant lands, whether physically or within our imagination.

Now, let’s tackle some common questions about songs about travel and adventure:

1. What is the oldest song about travel and adventure?

The oldest known song about travel and adventure is “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, written in 1798.

2. Are songs about travel and adventure only limited to a specific genre?

No, songs about travel and adventure can be found in various genres, including country, rock, folk, and pop.

3. What other songs about travel and adventure can you recommend?

Some other notable songs about travel and adventure include “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver, and “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey.

4. Do these songs resonate with people who haven’t traveled much?

Absolutely! These songs have the power to ignite the spark of wanderlust and inspire anyone, regardless of their travel experiences.

5. Are there songs that specifically reference certain destinations?

Yes, there are songs that mention specific destinations, such as “Hotel California” by Eagles (California) and “New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra (New York City).

6. Do any of these songs have a deeper meaning beyond travel and adventure?

Some songs, like “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson, can also symbolize resilience, perseverance, and the desire to keep moving forward in life.

7. Are there any songs about the darker side of travel and adventure?

Yes, “Hotel California” by Eagles and “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight & The Pips touch upon the complexities and challenges of life on the road.

8. Can songs about travel and adventure inspire people to pursue their dreams?

Absolutely! These songs often evoke a sense of wanderlust and encourage listeners to step out of their comfort zones, chase their dreams, and explore the world.

9. Do any of these songs have a cinematic quality?

Yes, songs like “Africa” by Toto and “Ramble On” by Led Zeppelin create vivid imagery that could easily serve as a soundtrack to a movie or a travel documentary.

10. Are there any songs about solo travel?

Yes, “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen and “Ramble On” by Led Zeppelin touch upon the theme of embarking on a solo adventure.

11. Can these songs be considered motivational?

Definitely! The uplifting melodies and empowering lyrics of these songs can serve as a source of motivation and inspiration for anyone seeking new adventures.

12. Are there any songs that capture the essence of road trips?

Yes, “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers and “Ventura Highway” by America perfectly embody the spirit of road trips and the thrill of exploring new places.

13. Have any of these songs been used in travel commercials or films?

Yes, songs like “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show have been featured in travel commercials, while “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane was prominently used in the film “Cars.”

14. Can these songs help alleviate wanderlust during times when travel is restricted?

Absolutely! Listening to these songs can transport you to different places in your mind and temporarily quench your thirst for travel.

15. Are there any songs about space travel or intergalactic adventures?

While not included in this list, “Space Oddity” by David Bowie and “Rocket Man” by Elton John are iconic songs that explore the theme of space travel and adventure.

16. Can these songs evoke nostalgia for past travels?

Most certainly! These songs often hold a special place in our hearts, reminding us of the places we’ve visited and the memories we’ve made.

17. Are there any newer songs about travel and adventure gaining popularity?

As music continues to evolve, new songs about travel and adventure emerge regularly. It’s always worth exploring the latest releases to discover fresh melodies that resonate with your own travel experiences.

In conclusion, songs about travel and adventure have the power to transport us to distant lands, fill our hearts with wanderlust, and inspire us to explore the world. From the timeless classics to modern-day anthems, these songs capture the essence of the human spirit’s unyielding desire for adventure. As we venture into the year 2024 and beyond, let these melodies be our constant companions, igniting our passion for travel and reminding us that the world is waiting to be discovered.

Final Thoughts:

Songs about travel and adventure have the remarkable ability to awaken our sense of wanderlust and transport us to places unknown. Whether we’re physically exploring the world or daydreaming about distant lands, music accompanies us on our journey, providing the perfect soundtrack to our adventures. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of life in 2024, let these songs be a source of inspiration, reminding us of the boundless possibilities that await us beyond our doorstep. So, pack your bags, hit play on your favorite travel tunes, and let the melodies guide you on an epic adventure of a lifetime.

45 Best Songs about Traveling and Adventure for Inspiration

Whether it is a road trip across America or a day trip to the beach with your best friend, every adventure needs an awesome playlist! Music is one of the best ways to set the mood for any outing, but especially vacations.

In this article, you will find the best songs about traveling and adventure. You will hear some great songs from road trips, fun beach ditties, and romantic wanderlust beats. Read on for some amazing tunes sure to kick your mood into overdrive and give you that traveler’s itch.

“Life Is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts

Song year: 2008

If you are on a road trip, this song is a staple for the journey! Road trips can be a boring thing if the destination is on your mind rather than the journey itself, but give this song a listen and suddenly that highway is much more intriguing! You never know what you will be able to see or do along the way.

While you are at it, put it on repeat. It really is just that good.

“Route 66” by Chuck Berry

Song year: 1946

This song reminds you that places often have a fantastic story behind them. Chuck Berry embraces the history of Route 66 and the thrill of traveling on it. With a piano front and center, the music even feels historic.

History may not be your favorite thing, but no one can deny the awesome past of Route 66. There is even a section of that road that plays “America the Beautiful” if you drive on the rumble strips going the speed limit. That would make a pretty great TikTok video.

“Mustang Sally” by Wilson Pickett

Song year: 1966

Even a dented Buick will feel like a Mustang with this song blasting from the speakers and you will surely feel like a goddess at the wheel. It may have come out decades ago, but this is one song that will never be old!

“Chillin’ It” by Cole Swindell

Song year: 2014

With a happy and carefree energy to it, this song is absolutely lovely for driving down the open road with the top down and hair flowing. The beat even makes it the perfect sing-along song. Cole Swindell’s voice is perfect in this song, with a nearly unparalleled energy to it.

“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line

Song year: 2012

This song has more of an aimless journey feel to it, perfect for those trips to anywhere. Pop this on, shift into drive, and find out where on the map you end up. You can even double the fun and bring your best friend with you! The talented musicians in Florida Georgia Line would definitely approve.

“Rhythm Made Me Do It” by Shania Twain

Song year: 1999

Shania has the perfect voice for a road trip and this song is decidedly more rock than most of her other songs. The combination makes for some great highway driving music!

Even though her other songs are not necessarily about vacationing, they would still make some great additions to your road trip playlist, as well. She is certainly one of Canada’s best contributions to the music scene.

“Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf

Song year: 1969

You may not be a biker, but this song sure will have you feeling like one. You can almost feel the snarl of a powerful bike under you as you weave in and out of traffic on a busy highway. Unleash your wild side with this on your playlist, even if you are traveling on four wheels instead of two.

“Highway to Hell” by AC/DC

Song year: 1979

If you are not careful when you listen to this one while driving, you will end up with a speeding ticket! This song embodies throwing out the rules and going with the flow. Just be sure you listen to it on the way to vacation, before all of those questionable decisions have been made!

“Electric Avenue” by Eddie Grant

Whether it is Electric Avenue or the open road, your car will dance right along with you as you listen to this classic. Few songs stay as popular and well-known as this one has over the last decade.

“Margaritaville” by Jimmy Buffet and Alan Jackson

Song year: 1977

It is almost criminal to spend a day at the beach without enjoying this delightful song! If any song is perfect for lounging in the sand with a colorful mixed drink, this is it. You can feel yourself relax from your head to your toes, leaving all your worries behind as you head for the beach.

“Vacation” by Thomas Rhett

Song year: 2015

While it definitely has an unusual tone, it captures all of the essentials of those sunny beach days. It is a fantastic hidden gem in the beach music world! Pop it in, crank it up, and dance your vacation away, preferably with a drink that has one of those cute little umbrellas in it. Do not forget your sunscreen!

“No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” by Kenny Chesney

Song year: 2002

Even the title sums up exactly how you want a beach trip to go. Kenny delivers a fantastically fun song that has you feeling the sand between your toes, even if you are not at the beach. For those who are not fond of country music, you should not count this one out until you listen to it. It is definitely not your usual country song.

“Pontoon” by Little Big Town

Who does not want to spend the day on a pontoon? Most people have great childhood memories of days spent out on the lake with family or friends and this song makes for some serious nostalgia. Summer rays, good friends, and good fishing…the perfect trifecta!

“Some Beach” by Blake Shelton

Song year: 2004

While this song is about wishing you were at the beach, you sure feel the satisfaction when you play it while you are actually there! Perfect mental images coupled with Blake’s velvety voice make this song more than ideal for a day on the sand. Even better, you fully appreciate the break from the daily grind that comes with a beach day.

“Cake by the Ocean” by DNCE

If you want to dance on the beach, this is the song you want to play. With a delightfully original beat and fun, quirky lyrics, few beach songs compare to this one! The lyrics are original and flow wonderfully with the overall feel of the song being incredibly playful.

Having been featured on the Teen Choice Awards, this is a great song for the whole family to enjoy during vacation. Your kids will probably even recognize it!

“Toes” by the Zac Brown Band

Song year: 2006

You will feel like you are already in the Bahamas when listening to this song. This band’s mental imagery is strong in both the lyrics and the beat. You would swear you can feel your toes squishing through the damp sand with the waves rushing up towards your beach chair.

Be sure to watch out for the tide!

“Kokomo” by The Beach Boys

Song year: 1988

This song is everything a steamy Bahamas vacation with your special someone should be. With major honeymoon vibes, listening to this will have your blood pressure rising and looking at your partner with fire in your eyes. The only other thing you need is a cute beach bungalow for the week…right on the sand, of course!

“Soak up the Sun” by Sheryl Crow

While this song definitely feels beachy, the beat is a bit more unusual than average. Even so, it is no less fun and catchy. Sheryl certainly knows what she is doing!

No one would be surprised if this song is responsible for more than a couple people calling in “sick” for a day to hit the beach.

“Blame it on Mexico” by George Strait

Song year: 1981

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, and the same is true for Mexico! A Mexican beach is the perfect place to really let loose, and this song showcases that euphoria. Until you have been to Mexico, it is difficult to fully appreciate the unique ambiance of the country’s resort towns.

Do not forget to have a drink in a coconut shell cup! It is a Mexican vacation staple, after all.

“Island Song” by Zac Brown Band

This number has that classic Caribbean feel to it that everyone loves. It is so easy to visualize a bongo player showing off their tunes on the beach you are walking, mai tai in hand. Even better, two mai tais. Because priorities, you know.

“Redneck Yacht Club” by Craig Morgan

Song year: 2005

In all honesty, not every vacation is chic and expensive. Sometimes, it is just friends gathering and having a good time. In those cases, Craig Morgan lifts redneck to chic with this fantastic song. You certainly do not need a yacht to have a great time; you just need great people and the space to have some fun!

“I Get Around” by The Beach Boys

Song year: 1963

This is a fun, catchy tune with gobs of energy. The harmonization is so natural that you will probably find yourself humming along without even realizing it.

Besides, what vacation would be complete without the Beach Boys? The saying “oldie but goodie” absolutely personifies this group as a whole. If you enjoy their sound, check out the rest of their music for your playlist! Most of their songs fit perfectly with the beach vibe.

“Long Hot Summer” by Keith Urban

Song year: 2010

Summer has all the best things and Keith Urban knows it. He captures everything from the road trip to the beach to the night sky in the middle of summer. Your worries vanish while listening to this song and that traveler’s itch makes itself known. Do yourself a favor and listen to the call!

“All Summer Long” by Kid Rock

Song year: 2007

This song has always been a tried-and-true staple for river tubing playlists. It feels both nostalgic for childhood summers and perfect for summer activities with family nowadays. Michigan, where Kid Rock is from, is chock full of rivers and lakes, so day trips are a normal summer activity here.

Not all summer vacations involve a long road trip or even multiple days. Sometimes, the best memories are made close to home. This song drives home the point that they are no less special because of that.

“Sunshine and Summertime” by Faith Hill

One of the most notable women in country music, Faith Hill kills it with this fun summertime song. She personifies all of our hopes for this fun season, with optimism and happiness oozing from every note.

“Sideways” by Dierks Bentley

Song year: 2009

If you are going to a party, this song should absolutely be on your playlist. You can feel the energy of the dance floor in every syllable. With the crowd going crazy in the background, the ambiance is undeniable and infectious.

Remember, no one cares if you dance perfectly, so show off those moves even if you do not think you have them. Having fun is what matters!

“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper

Song year: 1983

A classic song about adventure, this one specifically about vacationing with your best friend. This one is best played at maximum volume! Cyndi Lauper has a very fun, infectious voice with a range that is so easy to sing along to. Besides, girls really do want to have fun!

“Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus

Given Miley’s reputation, this song was a pleasant surprise. It perfectly captures the essence of a summer bash with a high-energy beat and cheerful lyrics . The spring break vibes are strong with this one and it gives you a strong urge to hit the dance floor and dance your worries away.

“Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Song year: 1974

An indisputable staple of vacation songs, this number is perfect for southern road trips, in particular! Roll the windows down and sing along with the wind in your hair. It may be cliche, but they are cliches for a very good reason!

Bonus points for each car you can get to sing along with you! It definitely will not be hard.

“Catch and Release” by Matt Simons

We go on vacation to take a much needed break from real life and all of its responsibilities. When listening to this song, those responsibilities melt away and life becomes full of possibilities you could not see before. The itch to travel is made so obvious as these calming lyrics wash over you and you find yourself remembering what life is all about.

“Time Well Wasted” by Brad Paisley

This song throws into sharp relief how utterly important it is to take some time to enjoy life. After all, if you are not spending time on things you enjoy, what even is the point of this daily grind? Everyone can hear you loud and clear, Brad…mental health is important, too! Go “waste” sometime this summer.

“Drift Away” by Uncle Kracker

Most of Uncle Kracker’s songs are very explicit, but this one is an exception. No matter where you are, you will mentally drift away when listening to it! Everyone yearns for adventure and this song makes you want it even more.

Unlike most of his other songs, this is even appropriate for your children to hear, so there is no reason to be shy about blasting it in the car on the way to your destination.

“Katmandu” by Bob Seger

Song year: 1976

Everyone wants to go exploring after listening to this song, boasting the intricacies of a new place. Exploration and adventure are both in your very nature and Bob Seger knows that, without a doubt. You should go visit Katmandu, yeah?

“Ramblin’ Man” by The Allman Brothers Band

While people usually love living near family and having roots, the way this band describes the open road makes anyone yearn for the traveling lifestyle. Every note drips with freedom and a carefree attitude. You never know what you will find around the next bend and listening to this will have you aching to find out what is out there.

“Free Man in Paris” by Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell wrote this for a close coworker who mentioned that he loves Paris because of how it makes him feel. In her true style, Joni turned that into a song, even using his direct quotes in the lyrics.

The result was an almost haunting song that makes you not only hear what Paris is like, but truly feel it in your soul. One day, you will enjoy a buttery croissant at a Parisian cafe with a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower.

“Laredo” by Band of Horses

This song connects everyday difficulties with the relief a vacation offers. Everyone has had terrible days at the office or experienced that crushing feeling of life passing us by. Let this song take you away from all of that hardship and get some relief, even if you cannot physically get away from the daily grind.

“Heaven is A Place On Earth” by Belinda Carlisle

Most people know this song, which makes it a great singalong. It has lyrics that go with many interpretations, so even though it is not technically about traveling, it can certainly be interpreted that way! Even better, it is perfect for traveling couples looking for adventure.

“What We Live For” by American Authors

Song year: 2016

This tune makes you ache for a trip with your sweetheart. Too often, couples spend their lives firmly planted on the couch, binging Netflix shows, together but not truly bonding. These lyrics make it obvious what people are missing in that rut. Getting out of your comfort zone can be hard, but listening to this will make it that much easier to take that first step.

“Springsteen” by Eric Church

Song year: 2011

Beautiful songs about adventure and summer love always give me the carefree feeling that you crave on vacation. It feels like you are a teenager again, listening to Bruce Springsteen croon on my tape deck while drawing hearts around a certain picture in my yearbook. You may laugh, but you know everyone has done it! Let the memories wash over you with this well-crafted ballad.

“Adventure” by Matthew Parker

Who doesn’t want adventure? With a foot-tapping beat and emotionally intimate lyrics, this song showcases the best a relationship has to offer. Dreams are important to all of us and they feel so easily within reach while listening to Matthew Parker’s song. What is even better is the opportunity to include a person you love in those memories.

“When the Sun Goes Down” by Kenny Chesney feat. Uncle Kracker

A steamy beach song for couples, this touches on the more intimate aspects of a relationship! Even so, most children will not recognize it for what it is, as this song is chock full of innuendos that most young ears will not pick up on.

If you were a country enthusiast back in the day, nostalgia definitely comes into play, as well. Who else spent yesteryear playing this song on repeat?

“Watermelon Sugar” by Harry Styles

Song year: 2020

A newer release, this quirky song is full of innuendos comparing a person you love with summertime. Of course, both of those things can elicit the same emotional response, so it definitely fits. It is certainly more fun than lovey, but still works with the theme! Besides, all relationships need more than a little fun.

“Come Away With Me” by Norah Jones

This is a slower song, but definitely a sweet one about traveling with the person you love. Making memories together is a wonderful part of any relationship and this song captures that essence beautifully. More intimate than most songs on this list, it nevertheless earned its place with ease.

“Destination Calabria” by Alex Gaudino

Even if you love your life, this song will still make you want to quit your job, throw your phone into a lake somewhere, and drive until you find something interesting!

The perfect balance between steamy and adventurous make this a great go-to song for traveling lovebirds, as well as a great inspiration for a trip without a destination. Everyone can use a little more whimsy in their lives.

“Not Today” by Imagine Dragons

Featured in the movie Me Before You, this song is perfect for those couples who are looking to find adventure and make memories together. The lyrics are flexible enough that it always feels personal, no matter what your personal situation is.

Imagine Dragons has made quite a name for themselves recently and this song is a prime example of why they have earned that spotlight.

Top Songs about Traveling and Adventure, Final Thoughts

Most of the songs about traveling on this list are catchy, fun, and whimsical in nature. If vacationing has a mood, that is definitely it. You may have a habit of giving up your vacation time, which can be great for the wallet but terrible for your state of mind. Be open to it and this list can remind you of those joyful moments that you need.

Life can be unpredictable sometimes and it is up to you to embrace that and let it carry you away once in a while. So throw that top down, turn your volume up, and go enjoy life! Your to-do list will still be there when you get back.

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