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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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80 Best Songs About Traveling: The Ultimate Travel Playlist?

Music can put you in the mood for many things, and one of those is travel! This list of the best songs about traveling will inspire you to hit the road and take the path less traveled!

Travel Songs

There’s something about travel that just begs for a good song. Maybe it’s the excitement of new places and experiences, or the nostalgia for past trips. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of great songs out there about travel.

A fantastic song about travel can make you feel like you’re already on your way to your next adventure. It can also be the perfect way to reminisce about a past trip. And, of course, a good travel song is the perfect addition to any road trip playlist.

On our last road trip around the Mani Peninsula of Greece , we collected some of our favourite songs to play along the way! 

Related: Best Road Trip Food

Best Road Trips Songs

Why not put together the ultimate travel playlist to either inspire you to travel or to play while you're out on the road? Here's over 80 of our favorite songs about travel:

1. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

The song “Sweet Home Alabama” is about the band's hometown of Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The opening line “Big wheels keep on turnin'” definitely makes us think of long road trips!

2. “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson

This song captures the essence of living life on the road, and is an ode to the open road and the nomadic life of a touring musician. It’s been covered by many artists over the years, but we love the original version by Willie Nelson.

3. “Life on the Road” by Mumford & Sons Song

This song, from Mumford & Sons' album “Wilder Mind”, is a beautiful and nostalgic look at life traveling on the road. It's definitely one of our all-time favorites for road trips!

4. “Take the Long Way Home” by Supertramp Song

The song talks about the scenic route and enjoying the journey. It's a great one for road trips!

5. “Drivin' My Life Away” by Eddie Rabbit

This song is a classic driving anthem about being on the road and longing for home.

6. “I've Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash

This music is a country classic that lists all the places in the United States that Johnny Cash has been. It's a fun and adventurous tune that will have you dreaming of new destinations !

Related: Best Road trip captions

7. “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons Song

This upbeat, positive song is an ideal pick for your travel playlist. It's about dreaming big and going out into the world to get what you want.

8. “City of New Orleans” by Arlo Guthrie Song

This folk song by Arlo Guthrie is a nostalgic look back at train travel in America in the 1970s. It's an upbeat, heartwarming tune that will have you dreaming about your own train adventures.

9. “I'm Outta Here” by Shania Twain Song

This song is all about the excitement of hitting the road and heading out on an adventure. It's a great travel anthem no matter where you're going!

10. “Route 66” by Nat King Cole Song

This classic song by Nat King Cole is all about the iconic American road trip. It's a fun and easy-going tune that will put you in the mood for your own adventure.

11. “The Wanderer” by Dion Song

It tells the story of the nomadic life of a traveler. It's an energetic and upbeat tune that celebrates the freedom of just going where the road takes you.

13. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman

This powerful ballad is all about the struggle to break free from the circumstances that hold you down, and it perfectly encapsulates the spirit of travel. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or an experienced adventurer, this song will speak to your soul.

14. “The Times They Are A-Changin'” by Bob Dylan

The classic song by Bob Dylan is all about social change, but it also perfectly captures the feeling of wanderlust. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to explore the world and see something new.

Related: Best movies about wanderlust

15. “Don't Stop Believin'” by Journey

This iconic song by the rock band Journey is all about following your dreams and never giving up. It's a great pick for those times when you need a little extra motivation to keep moving forward. Whether you're on a road trip or just trying to stick with your travel plans , this song will inspire you to keep going.

16. “I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers

This catchy, upbeat song is all about the freedom and excitement of traveling on your own terms. It's a great pick for anyone who's embarking on a solo adventure or just looking for some inspiration to get out there and explore the world. No matter where you're going, this song will make you want to keep moving forward.

17. “Road to Nowhere” by Talking Heads Song

A song about the uncertainty of travel and how you never really know what's around the corner. It's a powerful, introspective ballad that will make you think deeply about your adventures. If you're looking for something that will challenge you and give you a new perspective on travel, this is a perfect choice.

Related: Reasons Why Long Term Travel Is Cheaper Than Regular Vacations

18. “The Weight” by The Band Song

This song is all about the burdens we carry with us on our travels. It's a reflective and introspective tune that will make you think about the things you're carrying with you, both physically and emotionally. If you're looking for a song that will help you process your own travel experiences, this is a great choice.

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

This classic song by John Denver is all about the heartbreak of leaving home and heading out into the world. It perfectly captures that bittersweet feeling of travel, when you know that things will never be quite the same once you leave.

20. “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight and the Pips Song

This iconic song by Gladys Knight and the Pips is all about traveling to a better, brighter future. It's a great anthem for anyone who's chasing their dreams or just looking for something new in life. Whether you're on your way to a new destination or just trying to make sense of your journey, this song will give you the inspiration and motivation you need to keep moving forward.

Related: Short Traveling Quotes

21. “Ramblin' Man” by The Allman Brothers Band

This song is all about the joys and challenges of the nomadic life. It's a great pick for anyone who's feeling restless and looking to hit the open road. If you're looking for a song that will make you want to jump in your car and start driving, this is the perfect choice.

22. “Viva Las Vegas” by Elvis Presley

This classic song by Elvis Presley is all about the excitement and energy of Sin City. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to let loose and have a good time. Whether you're headed to Vegas for a weekend or just looking for a little bit of escapism, this song will give you the perfect soundtrack.

23. “One Night in Bangkok” by Murray Head

The song talks about the exotic appeal of Bangkok . It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to experience something new and exciting. If you're headed to Thailand or just dreaming of far-off destinations, this song will take you there.

24. “I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For” by U2

This classic song by U2 is all about the search for meaning and purpose in life. It's a great pick for anyone who's feeling lost or just looking for something more. Whether you're on a journey of self-discovery or just trying to find your place in the world, this song will resonate with you.

25. “Wherever I May Roam” by Metallica

This song is all about the freedom and flexibility of the nomadic lifestyle. It's a great pick for anyone who's feeling restless and looking to hit the open road. If you're looking for a song that will make you want to jump in your car and start driving, this is the perfect choice.

26. “Wherever You Will Go” by The Calling

This song is all about the feeling of being lost and alone while traveling. It's a beautiful and introspective ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt lost while on the road. If you're looking for a song that will help you process your own travel experiences, this is a great choice.

27. “Road Trippin’ ” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

This upbeat, carefree tune is all about the joys of road tripping. It's a great pick for anyone who's hitting the road and looking for something that will put them in a good mood. No matter where your travels take you, this song will give you the energy and spirit to keep going.

Related: Travelling by Car: Advantages and Disadvantages

28. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show

This infectiously catchy folk-rock song is all about the thrill of adventure and seeing new places. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to travel and explore, whether it's their first time or their hundredth. This song will pump you up and get you ready for anything that comes your way.

29. “The Wanderer” by Dion

This song is all about the feeling of being lost and alone while traveling. It's a reflective and introspective tune that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt lost while on the road. If you're looking for a song that will help you process your own travel experiences, this is a great choice.

30. “Don't Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin

This upbeat, cheerful and fun song is all about being content and happy with where you are in life. It's a great pick for anyone who's on the road or just starting a new journey in life. No matter where your travels take you, this song will help you keep a positive attitude and just enjoy the ride.

31. “Easy” by Lionel Richie / Faith No More

This pop ballad is all about the feeling of being on the road and embracing all of the surprises that come along with it. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to travel and explore, whether it's their first time or their hundredth. This song will help you keep a positive attitude and just enjoy the ride.

32. “Dreamers of the Shore” by Volcan Peaks

This hauntingly beautiful tune is all about the feeling of being on the road and facing your fears. It's a powerful ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever set foot on a plane, train or automobile to look for something new. If you're looking for something that will help you process any travel-related fears, this song is a great choice.

33. “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane

The song, Somewhere Only We Know, is a piece of nostalgia. The lyrics circle around about something, someone, and somewhere he used to love. It is about finding and travelling back to the feelings he used to feel, activities he used to do, and the people and places he used to see. At the same time, this song will unfold a new emotion of how past look like and how it can change drastically that will make you reflect the temporariness in this world.

34. “The Longest Road” by Morgan Page feat. Lissie

This upbeat music will boost your excitement while travelling. This song will talk about the journey of life, and how it can affect you life. It is about enjoying, trying new things, create bonds, build memories, and making mistakes. This will make you feel the urge of always chasing things in order to live and create a meaningful life out of it.

35. “I Travel” by Simple Minds

This song is all about the feeling of homesickness while traveling. It's a beautiful and introspective ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever left their home behind to travel. Whether you're far from home or just missing your loved ones, this song is slightly melancholic but nice.

36. “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

In travelling, this song will comfort you as it will present the feeling of missing home while living in a different environment. It will likewise bring you motivation with the gratefulness of being in a new place. It will ignite different emotions, specifically the feeling of attachment, nearly love to someone, some place, or a moment that will keep you moving.

37. “Running to Stand Still” by U2

This song is all about the feeling of being on the road and facing your fears. It's a powerful ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever set foot on a plane, train or automobile to look for something new. If you're looking for something that will help you process any travel-related fears, this song is a great choice.

38. “The Road to Reno” by Guy Clark

This sad country tune is all about the feeling of traveling on the road with no end in sight. It's a powerful ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever left their home behind for an open-ended journey.

39. “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys

This fun and upbeat song is all about the feeling of being on a tropical island, far away from your troubles. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to travel to a new and exotic location. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of one, this song will help you relax and escape the everyday grind.

40. “California Dreaming” by The Mamas & The Papas

This song is all about the feeling of longing for home while you're on the road. It's a beautiful and introspective ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever left their home behind to travel. Whether you're far from home or just missing your loved ones, this song will make you feel right at ease.

Related: California Instagram Captions

41. “Somewhere over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

This beautiful and haunting song is all about the feeling of longing for home while you're on the road. It's a great pick for anyone who's ever left their home behind to travel, whether they're far from home or just missing their loved ones.

42. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay

This fun and groovy dance song is about feeling the emotions of being alive, again. This disco inspired music will motivate you to always carry on in life because it is an adventure, there's trouble and joy in it. This song will awaken us to the energy of life while travelling and to not lose it, hence the adventure of a lifetime.

43. “Paris” by The Chainsmokers

This electronic dance music is about finding independence with the ones you love and to live with. Paris is what the couple's trying to go and live the life they wanted away from the obstructions of their family, environmental trauma, and anxiety. Even though this song is about searching for the fantasy they wanted to live, this song gives people to motivation to dream, work on that dream and to make it come true, whether it's travelling or not.

Related: 100+ Paris Captions For Instagram For Your Beautiful City Photos

44. “Sleep on the Floor” by The Lumineers

This feel good music with its country tune and calming arrangement is about travelling away to the big bustling cities and making the most out of that impulsive decision even you're feeling out from you comfort zone. It will give you courage that in the journey of life, there's always the presence of troubles and unavoidable circumstances that you can overcome as long as you have someone with you.

45. “Heading Home” by Gryffin feat. Josef Salvat

Heading Home, an electronic dance music is a feel good music talking about the feeling of always longing to feel the comfort of a home. It will make you feel the known feeling of a traveller, being a lost person, yet pushes you to always move forward and enjoy the things life has thrown at you.

46. “Havana” by Camila Cabello

Havana is a song paying tribute to the artist's home country, Cuba. This dance music gives you the vibes of their culture, warmth, and love to their place. This song is associated to a love of a country by praising its beauty, romanticizing the relationships you can build, and treasuring the moments of travelling.

47. “Autumn Dawn” by Volcan Peaks

This music will serenade your ears while travelling a long road as bring comfort and calmness with the lyrics and its tune. Even though this song will give you comfort, the lyrics much more emphasize the feeling during a separation. This will bring enough sadness to the listeners to realize the growth you will encounter separating from a place, person, and moment among others.

Related: Best Autumn Instagram Captions

48. “Take Me Back To London ” by Ed Sheeran

This upbeat music is a vibe starter when travelling. It's about reminiscing a place where they grow up and travelling back to those moments through sharing their different stories. It's about realizing that a person can move forward in life and still be the person dreaming of what they have become.

49. “Travel Song” by Teleman

Travel Song, a feel good music, is a comforting music to hear when driving towards a destination. This song is about affection and risk, drawing matches between a widespread fire and a destined relationship. The music reflects the tone of the verses, as well — an incredible, irresistible harmony among poppy and fun-loving sentimentalism and serious, sobering acknowledgements

50. “Beach Bonfire” by Sandro

This comforting song is good lullaby during downtime or hours for siesta. From the title itself, it's about igniting your travel with beach bonfire and find comfort with it while enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. This song freezes a moment as it's very calm, and can make you realize and internalize the events during a trip.

51. “Stargazing” by Kygo feat. Justin Jesso

This is a hopeful song to everyone who's thinking they cannot get through something. The song is best for travelling especially when you're burn out or unmotivated to do such, it will give you courage to look forward of what's gonna happen. This was intentionally about the artist's ex-girlfriend finding her way to fix their relationship, but at the same time knowing that it will be okay otherwise, since there's always hope when you look up to the sky and see stars keep blazing.

52. “I’m like a Bird” by Nelly Furtado

This fun beat music will bring your feet on the move. The song talks about the freedom of a human as a bird has, but at the same time recognizing the impermanence of the abilities a human can do with that freedom. It's a good music during a trip on a summer knowing you're free from hectic schedule and heavy responsibilities.

53. “Anywhere” by Passenger

Passenger never really disappoint, especially with this song, giving us the feel good vibe when hitting off the road. It's about devotion, love, and commitment to someone when travelling, believing that it will always be remarkable as long it's with that significant other. Anywhere talks about a destination that can fulfill the dream and goal of couples driven by the want to travel and escape.

54. “Fly Away ” by Lenny Kravitz

This rock music will bring to a different dimension when travelling. The song purposively gives out a different feeling, yet so relatable as it is about escaping and going to a different place that you wish different from what you are currently living. It's a feel good music for people travelling objectifying their want for escape and adventure.

55. “Africa” by Toto

This song age like fine wine, it's really a very well-created piece of music, with driving drum circles, layered harmonies, and an anthemic tune. The comforting voice of the singer really gives you a good film moment while travelling. Not only that it pays tribute to the beauty of Africa , it will definitely give you the feeling of warmth and ease when travelling.

56. “Good Life” by One Republic

This upbeat song is best when you're travelling for your self's improvement. It's tied in with discarding your burdens and stresses and having a decent life, since you can as it centers around being the individual you need to be and not what others believe you should be. This tune truly radiates a great deal of sentiments, yet it's elevating and brings a peculiar inclination to the listeners.

57. “Wanderlust ” by Frank Turner

This country feel music will make you feel the moment while travelling. The song portrays one of Frank's heartfelt limbo, it puts to differentiate the reasonable and satisfying relationship he has with this young lady with his ceaseless desire for tour and travelling. With this song, you will feel motivated on the decisions you will be encountering regarding travels and tours.

58. “Ocean” by Martin Garrix feat Khalid

This calming, downtempo dance track highlights instrumentation by Dutch DJ Martin Garrix and vocals by American artist Khalid. This electronic dance music mainly talks about the power of love, using the ocean as metaphor that can't break a relationship. This music sets the active mood while travelling, it pumps your heart, break the awkwardness, and develop a strong start on a trip.

59. “Catch & Release” by Matt Simons

This song has an incredibly calming tune in any trip, when it discusses survival strategies through the battles in our lives. This discusses going to where without help from anyone else, yet it isn't forlorn… where someone can act naturally and find solace in self-reflection even in obscurity. This song resonates with every last one of us, the melody having a profound importance with its care meaning.

60. “Traveling On” by Kongos

Traveling On is a calming music that's best when travelling in a non-touristy village. It's a breathtaking song that soothes you blood, bones, and soul. It helps you to remember the little moments while travelling, at the same time makes wanna seize the day.

61. “Dreaming” by Smallpools

The song gets going with a tranquil sound that crescendos into a beat to set the bass of the tune that fits when you listen clearly when travelling. The tune has an exceptionally electronic sound to it, yet the artist's voice is genuine. All through the melody there is a feeling of anxiety and urgency of attempting to make a spot for yourself. The melody for the most part catches the inclination that the world is against you.

62. “These Days” by Foo Fighters

This rock music is best when travelling long serene roads, with its developing style from calm to rock.  The song divulges on the idea that we must live life to the fullest, knowing and acknowledging that it's temporary and it may or will end these days. When going on a trip, we must not forget to always take risks, create memories, and be spontaneous.

63. “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf

Like any travel songs, this rock anthem is made for highways and unplanned trips. This song resonates the drive of motor riders travelling across countries by road, being wild and fun. The song, nonetheless represents to those who think they're born to be wild, being carefree, and worry less.

64. “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root

Send Me on My Way is a magical song that motivates you to keep moving forward when travelling with the warmth it expresses, and the soothing feeling it gives. This sets your happy mood when travelling, redefines your vision to the beauty of the traveled places, generates wonderful narratives when interacting with locals of you destinations, and releases your stress.

65. “Perfect Strangers” by Jonas Blue

This dance music will give you the vibe and mood when travelling in summer. It may originally be about two strangers found their charm with one another while travelling, it's nonetheless a summer anthem way back when it was released, with its catchy lyrics, and undeniably good electronic accompaniment.

66. “Let the Sun Shine” by Labrinth

Originally a country song, Let the Sun Shine was produced wonderfully to a hip-hop music, generating a new good travel music.  It's about the new beginnings in our life every day, giving us another time to renew, enjoy, and live. This upbeat music is best when travelling with friends, and strangers as it will connect your thoughts and mood during a trip.

67. “Beautiful Day” by U2

This iconic song is amazing when travelling alone, to be able to reflect that life may take away a lot from you, there will always be joy on what remained. This rock music gives you the vibes and good mood going abroad. This song will make you look for hope and beauty in this world even with its existing nightmares.

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

This timeless song really resonates with the ones always travelling and always on the hope to be home as soon as possible. This may be a song about home-sickness, the tune will always be remembered and used while travelling long roads. The undeniably good rhythm and its meaningful lyrics will always have a special place in all traveller's heart.

69. “Heart Of Gold” by Neil Young

This classic song expresses the longing for love and hope to never give up. This calming music is best when travelling with the car windows down while feeling the wind brushing your skin and listen as it whispers your wind. The soothing voices and mellow rhythm of the song is also good when you're taking a rest after a long day of a trip.

70. “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel

The Sound of Silence may be an empowering song to those oppressed and unprivileged, it likewise encourages people to not be afraid to talk to people especially when travelling alone. This song is the best company when having a down time during a trip, as it recognizes the importance of solo time when overwhelmed, especially during a travel.

71. “With or Without you” by U2

With or Without You, is a song about moving forward that's translated by travellers into a good solo travel song. This rock classic is a good jam of any ages, since it's relatable at some point in life. The sentimental foundation of the song makes it a great song when going for a trip, best played in a radio on a random setting.

72. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain?” by CCR

This timeless country music is about having a beautiful, sunny, and vibrant life and knowing that there will be rainy times as well. This music is a vibe when driving on a countryside moving across borders. It's best when travelling with friends and deciding on spontaneous stops for fun and adventure. It is an anthem for a road trip.

73. “Linger” by The Cranberries

The love song turned to a travel anthem is about the things you do when in love. This classic song has become the anthem of most travellers crossing borders and going out their comfort zone. With the soothing voice and beautifully arranged dynamics, makes this song a remarkable to any ages when going for a trip.

74. “Days of Silence” by Las Lunas

This calm music is great way to feed your ears with ease and help your mind find sanity when travelling. The beautifully written lyrics and its soothing tune will bring you peace of mind. When travelling, it's best to listen it at night, to wrap up the day with good music and deep reflection of the trip.

75. “I'm Thinking About You” by Windshield

I'm Thinking About You is a great song when unwinding, just sitting on your rented cabin, chilling with the sound of nature, and live on your thoughts. It's best when camping with friends or any of your love ones, as it will unleash your authenticity as your principle for love. This song will bring you to your thoughts that can help you generate reflections throughout.

Related: Best Nature Quotes

76. “Like Stone” by Daniel Gunnarson

This acoustic song will bring you a smile when travelling as it will set your positive mood when travelling. The calming arrangement of the song soothes your soul and washes all you stress and worries. This will ignite you drive on documenting the trip to freeze the moments and treasure it with all you heart.

77. “Feel your Blue Sky” by Bothnia

The song may start melancholic, the song delivers a powerful message of courage. This song is calming and comforting to the heart, and best when travelling to an isolated island or listened with radios on long quiet road. The song is best company for couple or solo travellers, as it will give you sanity and ease.

78. “Cornelia” by The Eastern Plain

This angelic song is best when you're travelling for peace and sanity. This song will bring you in a different beautiful dimension, and reframes your vision to the positive thoughts when travelling. The song is great when going to high altitudes and look down to the beautiful scenery of the city.

79. “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton

Some of the riffs for this hit song were written when Vanessa Carlton was just 17 years old. First released in 2002, the music video sees Vanessa being driven on a cross country road trip in America playing a piano.

Related: Camp Quotes

80. “Roam” by The B-52's

I've added this thanks to a reader's comment! The unmistaken style of the B-53's hits you from the opening, and the up-beat catchy chorus and melody quickly puts you in a happy place – no matter where you are in the world!

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

Did the B-52's ever get the lasting recognition they fully deserve? Probably not, which is a real shame. Check it out on YouTube here: Roam

What makes a good travel song?

We think a good travel song should either inspire wanderlust or evoke memories of past trips . It should also have a catchy melody that will stay in your head long after the journey is over!

Why do people love songs about travel so much?

Songs about travel have a way of capturing the excitement, adventure , and sense of possibility that comes with hitting the open road. They can also be incredibly nostalgic, reminding us of past trips and all the places we’ve been.

How to make a perfect traveling playlist ?

To make the perfect traveling playlist, start by thinking about what kinds of travel experiences you want to evoke. Do you want a playlist that will get you pumped up for your next big adventure? Or one that will soothe homesick feelings and help you relax while on the road?

You might also consider choosing songs with lyrics that reflect your own feelings about travel, whether it’s excitement at the unknown or a sense of longing for home.

Once you have your ideas in place, put together a playlist that incorporates a variety of different artists and genres to keep things interesting! And don’t forget to pack your headphones so you can enjoy your songs in style on your next trip .

Tips for using music to enhance your travel experience :

1. Take some time to think about the kind of experiences you want to have while traveling, and then create a playlist that will help you get in the right mindset.

2. Consider choosing music with lyrics that reflect your own feelings about travel, whether it’s excitement at the unknown or a sense of longing for home.

3. Prioritize listening to your playlist while on the road, whether you’re driving or flying. This can help you get in the right mindset for your trip and make it more enjoyable.

4. Don’t forget to pack a good set of earbuds so you can enjoy your music in style at any time during your travels.

5. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the journey! Music can play a big role in making any trip more memorable and enjoyable.

Related: Songs about bicycles

Travel Songs Playlist Final thoughts

Travel and music go together like peanut butter and jelly. Whether you're hitting the open road on an epic road trip or jetting off to a new and exotic destination, music can help set the mood and enhance your travel experience.

If you're looking for some great songs about travel, we recommend checking out tracks by Guy Clark, The Beach Boys, and The Mamas & the Papas. And don't forget to pack your headphones so you can enjoy your music in style on your next trip!

What's are your best road trip songs? What do you consider to be the ultimate travel song? Let us know in the comments below!

5 thoughts on “80 Best Songs About Traveling: The Ultimate Travel Playlist?”

After a year on the road, these suggestions, and the songs they brought to mind, has expanded my traveling playlist from a few dozen to more than a hundred. Thanks a million, Dave!

Shocked not to see Roam by the B52’s?!

So am I! I’ll try to add it in over the next week or so!

Another great tune that I have never seen on any “Travel Song” list is “Born to Wander” by the Rare Earth on their 1970 album “Ecology”.

The members of Lynyrd Skynyrd did not grow up in muscle shoals Alabama. They grew up in Jacksonville, Florida.

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67 Songs About Travelling: A Playlist for 2024

Are you looking for some of the best songs about travelling to inspire you or to accompany you on your next trip? Then you have come to the right place!

I’ve collected some of the best travel songs from the 1930s until today in this list. Musical genres range from pop and dance to rock, punk, and many others. So no matter what type of music you like, there should be something in it for you. The songs in the list below either talk about a place or the experience of travelling.

Some of my favourite songs on this list are #1, #17, and #39. Make sure to check them out and feel free to leave a comment if you think a travel song is missing. I’m updating this post frequently.

The Best Travel Songs of All Time

Songs About Travelling From 2000 Until Now

1. eddie vedder – guaranteed (2007).

This is one of my favourite songs of all time! Eddie Vedder wrote it for the film Into the Wild , and the lyrics are so powerful.

“On bended knee is no way to be free Lifting up an empty cup I ask silently That all my destinations will accept the one that’s me So I can breathe”

2. Nelly Furtado – I’m Like a Bird (2000)

“And baby all I need for you to know is I’m like a bird I’ll only fly away I don’t know where my soul is (soul is) I don’t know where my home is”

3. Tom Walker – Fly Away With Me (2019)

“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 Brew a taste so sweet Knock us off our feet or more”

4. Weezer – Island in the Sun (2001)

“When you’re on a holiday You can’t find the words to say All the things that come to you And I wanna feel it too”

5. Manu Chao – Me Gustas Tu (2001)

“Me gusta el viento, me gustas tú Me gusta soñar, me gustas tú Me gusta la mar, me gustas tú”

6. Lost Frequencies – Are You With Me (2014)

I wanna dance by water ‘neath the Mexican sky Drink some Margaritas by a string of blue lights Listen to the Mariachi play at midnight Are you with me, are you with me?

7. Luca Aprile – Traveler (2018)

“You’re taking off to Mexico To Paris and I know you long for more I’m waiting for you all night long I wanna see the pictures on your phone”

8. Murray Head – One Night in Bangkok (2001)

“One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster The bars are temples but the pearls ain’t free You’ll find a god in every golden cloister And if you’re lucky then the god’s a she I can feel an angel sliding up to me”

9. KONGOS – Traveling On (2012)

“Maybe I’ll go it all alone See the world and make my way back home Or maybe I’ll keep traveling on”

10. Anna Kendrick – Cups (2012)

“I got my ticket for the long way ’round The one with the prettiest of views It’s got mountains, it’s got rivers It’s got sights give you shivers But it sure would be prettier with you”

11. Dirty Heads – Vacation (2017)

“ A-a-aye, I’m on vacation Every single day ’cause I love my occupation A-a-aye, I’m on vacation Every single day, every, every single day “

12. The Kooks – See the World (2006)

“I remember how we used to sing Writing poems in your bed sit Finding time to be the passenger But there you are you never saw me leave”

13. Estelle Swara ft. Kanye West – American Boy (2008)

“Take me on a trip, I’d like to go someday Take me to New York, I’d love to see L.A. I really want to come kick it with you You’ll be my American boy Tell ’em kno wagwan blud “

14. Alex Gaudino ft. Crystal Waters – Destination Calabria (2007)

“ Follow me And let’s go To the place where we belong And leave our troubles at home Come with me We can go To a paradise of love and joy “ A destination unknown

Travel Songs From the 80s and 90s

15. johnny cash – i’ve been everywhere (1996).

“I’ve been everywhere, man. Crossed the desert’s bare, man. I’ve breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel, I’ve had my share, man. I’ve been everywhere.”

16. Willie Nelson – On the Road Again (1980)

“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”

17. Toto – Africa (1982)

“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”

18. The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) (1988)

“And I would walk 500 miles And I would roll 500 more Just to be the man who rolled a thousand miles To fall down at your door”

19. Desireless – Voyage Voyage (1987)

“ Voyage, voyage Plus loin que la nuit et le jour (voyage, voyage) Voyage (voyage) Dans l’espace inouï de l’amour Voyage, voyage Sur l’eau sacrée d’un fleuve indien, (voyage, voyage) Voyage (voyage) Et jamais ne revient “

20. Paul Simon – Graceland (1986)

“I’m going to Graceland, Graceland Memphis, Tennessee I’m going to Graceland Poor boys and pilgrims with families And we are going to Graceland”

21. Vengaboys – We’re Going to Ibiza (1999)

“Whoah! We’re going to Ibiza Whoah! Back to the island Whoah! We’re gonna have a party Whoah! In the Mediterranean Sea”

22. Sting – Englishman in New York (1987)

“See me walking down Fifth Avenue A walking cane here at my side I take it everywhere I walk I’m an Englishman in New York “

23. Daft Punk – Around the World (1997)

“ Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world”

24. Madonna – Holiday (1983)

“If we took a holiday Took some time to celebrate Just one day out of life It would be, it would be so nice”

25. Nina Hagen – New York (1983)

“New York City is the hottest place For a honeymoon in a hotel room, uh-huh New York City is a place so nice Everybody says it so they had to name it twice”

26. Tracy Chapman – Fast Car (1988)

“You got a fast car I got a plan to get us outta here I been working at the convenience store Managed to save just a little bit of money Won’t have to drive too far Just ‘cross the border and into the city You and I can both get jobs And finally see what it means to be living”

27. Deftones – Be Quiet and Drive (1997)

“It feels good to know you’re mine Now drive me far away, away, away Far away I don’t care where Just far away I don’t care where Just far away I don’t care where, just far away And I don’t care”

28. Red Hot Chilli Peppers – Road Trippin’ (1999)

“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”

29. Men at Work – Down Under (1980)

“ Traveling in a fried-out Kombi On a hippie trail, head full of zombie I met a strange lady, she made me nervous She took me in and gave me breakfast “

30. Crowded House – Weather With You (1991)

“Everywhere you go, always take the weather with you Everywhere you go, always take the weather Everywhere you go, always take the weather with you Everywhere you go, always take the weather, the weather with you”

31. The Beach Boys – Kokomo (1988)

“Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take you to Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama Key Largo, Montego, baby why don’t we go Oh I want to take you down to Kokomo, we’ll get there fast and then we’ll take it slow That’s where we want to go, way down in Kokomo”

32. Will Smith – Miami (1997)

“Party in the city where the heat is on All night, on the beach till the break of dawn “Welcome to Miami” “ Bienvenidos a Miami” Bouncin’ in the club where the heat is on All night, on the beach till the break of dawn I’m goin to Miami “Welcome to Miami”

33. The B-52’s – Roam (1989)

“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”

34. Status Quo – The Wanderer (1983)

“ Well I’m the type of guy that likes to roam around I’m never in one place I roam from town to town And when I find myself falling for some girl Well I hop right into that car of mine and drive around the world ‘Cause I’m a Wanderer, yeah the Wanderer I roam around and round and round and round and round and round and round “

35. Tom Cochrane – Life is a Highway (1991)

“There’s a world outside every darkened door Where blues won’t haunt you anymore Where the brave are free and lovers soar Come ride with me to the distant shore”

Travel Songs From the 60s and 70s

36. john denver – leaving on a jetplane (1966).

“So kiss me and smile for me Tell me that you’ll wait for me Hold me like you’ll never let me go ‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane Don’t know when I’ll be back again”

37. Iggy Pop – The Passenger (1977)

“I am a passenger And I ride, and I ride I ride through the city’s backsides I see the stars come out of the sky Yeah, they’re bright in a hollow sky You know it looks so good tonight”

38. Scott McKenzie – San Francisco (1967)

“If you’re going to San Francisco Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair If you’re going to San Francisco You’re gonna meet some gentle people there”

39. Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama (1974)

“Sweet home Alabama Where the skies are so blue Sweet home Alabama Lord I’m comin’ home to you”

40. The Mamas and the Papas – California Dreamin’ (1966)

“ All the leaves are brown (all the leaves are brown) And the sky is gray (and the sky is gray) I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk) On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day) I’d be safe and warm (I’d be safe and warm) If I was in L.A. (if I was in L.A.)”

41. Bob Dylan – A Hard Rain’s a-gonna Fall (1973)

“ Oh, where have you been, my blue-eyed son? And where have you been, my darling young one? I’ve stumbled on the side of twelve misty mountains, I’ve walked and I crawled on six crooked highways, I’ve stepped in the middle of seven sad forests, I’ve been out in front of a dozen dead oceans, I’ve been ten thousand miles in the mouth of a graveyard, And it’s a hard, it’s a hard, it’s a hard, it’s a hard, It’s a hard rain’s a-gonna fall. “

42. Frank Sinatra – Love’s Been Good to Me (1969)

This song was covered by Johnny Cash in 2006 (which is how I got to know it), and his version is beautiful as well.

“I have been a rover I have walked alone Hiked a hundred highways Never found a home Still in all I’m happy The reason is, you see Once in a while along the way Love’s been good to me”

43. Louis Armstrong – What a Wonderful World (1967)

“I see skies of blue and clouds of white The bright blessed day, the dark sacred nights And I think to myself what a wonderful world.”

44. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man (1961)

“I’m a travelin’ man and I’ve made a lot of stops All over the world And in every part I own the heart Of at least one lovely girl”

45. The Animals – We Gotta Get Out of This Place (1965)

“We gotta get out of this place If it’s the last thing we ever do We gotta get out of this place ‘Cause girl, there’s a better life for me and you “

46. Steppenwolf – Born to Be Wild (1969)

“ Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Looking for adventure In whatever comes our way “

47. Rupert Holmes – Escape (The Piña Colada Song) (1979)

“If you like piña coladas And gettin’ caught in the rain If you’re not into yoga If you have half a brain If you like makin’ love at midnight In the dunes on the cape Then I’m the love that you’ve looked for Write to me and escape”

48. Crosly Stills & Nash – Marrakesh Express (1969)

“ Looking at the world through the sunset in your eyes Travelling the train through clear Moroccan skies Ducks, and pigs, and chickens call Animal carpet wall-to-wall American ladies five-foot tall in blue “

49. Audrey Hepburn – Moon River (1962)

This song was written for the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s , in which Audrey Hepburn sings it. The song won multiple awards and was covered by many other artists.

“Two drifters, off to see the world There’s such a lot of world to see We’re after the same rainbow’s end Waitin’ ’round the bend My huckleberry friend Moon river and me”

50. The Sonics – Have Love, Will Travel (1965)

“Well, I might take a boat or I’ll take a plane I might hitch hike or jump a railroad train You’re kind of love drives a man insane So look for me walking just a any old way”

51. Led Zeppelin – Immigrant Song (1970)

“We come from the land of the ice and snow From the midnight sun where the hot springs flow The hammer of the gods Will drive our ships to new lands To fight the horde, sing and cry Valhalla, I am coming”

52. Canned Heat – Going Up the Country (1968)

“I’m going up the country Baby, don’t you wanna go? I’m going up the country Baby, don’t you wanna go? We gonna go somewhere Where I’ve never been before”

53. Elvis Presley – Viva Las Vegas (1964)

“Viva Las Vegas with your neon flashin’ And your one arm bandits crashin’ All those hopes down the drain Viva Las Vegas turnin’ day into nighttime Turnin’ night into daytime If you see it once You’ll never be the same again”

54. Joe Dassin – Aux Champs Elysees (1969)

“Aux Champs-Elysées, aux Champs-Elysées Au soleil, sous la pluie, à midi ou à minuit Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Elysées”

55. Crosby, Stills & Nash – Marrakesh Express (1969)

56. gladys knight & the pips – midnight train to georgia (1973).

“He’s leaving (leaving) On that midnight train to Georgia (leaving on a midnight train) Hmm, yeah Said he’s going back (going back to find) To a simpler place and time (and when he takes that ride) Oh yes, he is (guess who’s gonna sit right by his side)”

57. Eddie Money – Two Tickets to Paradise (1977)

“ I’m gonna take you on a trip so far from here I’ve got two tickets in my pocket, now baby, we’re gonna disappear We’ve waited so long, waited so long We’ve waited so long, waited so long “

58. Chuck Berry – Promised Land (1964)

“ Workin’ on a T-bone steak a la carte, Flying over to the Golden State; When the pilot told us in thirteen minutes We’d be headin’ in the terminal gate. “

59. The Grateful Dead – Truckin’ (1970)

“Dallas, got a soft machine Houston, too close to New Orleans New York got the ways and means But just won’t let you be”

60. Roger Miller – King of the Road (1964)

“Third boxcar, midnight train Destination Bangor, Maine Old, worn out suit and shoes I don’t pay no union dues”

61. Steve Miller Band – Jet Airliner (1977)

“Leavin’ home, out on the road I’ve been down before Ridin’ along in this big ol’ jet plane I’ve been thinkin’ about my home But my love light seems so far away And I feel like it’s all been done Somebody’s tryin’ to make me stay You know I’ve got to be movin’ on”

62. Creedence Clearwater Revival – Travelin’ Band (1970)

“Take me to the hotel baggage gone, oh well Come on, come on won’t you get me to my room I want to move Playin’ in a travelin’ band Yeah Well I’m flyin’ ‘cross the land, tryin’ to get a hand Playin’ in a travelin’ band”

63. Led Zeppelin – Ramble On (1969)

“Ramble on And now’s the time, the time is now To sing my song I’m goin’ ’round the world, I got to find my girl On my way I’ve been this way ten years to the day Ramble on Gotta find the queen of all my dreams”

Older Songs About Travelling

64. edith piaf – sous le ciel de paris (1951).

You can find the translation of this beautiful song here .

“Sous le ciel de Paris Coule un fleuve joyeux Hum, hum Il endort dans la nuit Les clochards et les gueux Sous le ciel de Paris Les oiseaux du Bon Dieu Hum, hum Viennent du monde entier Pour bavarder entre eux”

65. The Wizard of Oz – Somewhere Over the Rainbow (1939)

“Somewhere over the rainbow Bluebirds fly And the dreams that you dream of Dreams really do come true-ooh-ooh Someday I’ll wish upon a star Wake up where the clouds are far behind me Where trouble melts like lemon drops High above the chimney tops that’s where You’ll find me, oh”

66. Frank Sinatra – Come Fly With Me (1959)

“Come fly with me, let’s float down to Peru In llama-land there’s a one-man band And he’ll toot his flute for you Come fly with me, let’s take off in the blue”

67. Hank Williams – Ramblin’ Man (1951)

“Some folks might say That I’m no good That I wouldn’t settle Down if I could But when that open road Starts to callin’ me There’s somethin’ o’er the hill That I gotta see”

Songs about travelling – Final thoughts

I hope that you enjoyed this post featuring the best travel songs from the 1930s until today. This list is a work in progress, and I’m always on the lookout for other beautiful travel music to add to this list.

Can you think of other beautiful songs about travelling that are missing from this list? Let me know in the comments below!

Enjoyed this post? You may also like:

• Poetry About Travel: The 16 Most Inspiring Travel Poems
• Songs About Paris That Will Bring You There Instantly
• Short Travel Captions to Inspire Your Wanderlust
• Movies About Nomads That Will Inspire You

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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45 Best Songs About Traveling and Experiencing the World

There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.

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

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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Home » Wanderlust » 100 BEST Travel Songs for the Ultimate Travel Playlist

100 BEST Travel Songs for the Ultimate Travel Playlist

We LOVE everything about travel. From travel quotes to road trips, wanderlust inspiration to epic experiences, and even virtual and armchair travel ( because for most of 2020 that’s all we’ve been able to do! ) and so it only makes sense that we wanted to put together the most incredible travel playlist with 100 of the Best Travel Songs on the planet. This way, whether we out exploring the world or holed up in our houses dreaming of past adventures (and not-so-secretly planning the next!), we’ve got the perfect travel inspired soundtrack.

We’re pretty sure we have collated a list of the BEST travel songs, so no matter if you prefer classics like Steppenwolf’s Born To Be Wild or something a little more mellow like Adele, we’ve got you covered with our countdown of the top 100 travel songs – (and we’ve even including a whole section on Australian travel & road trip songs, because Australia is home to some of the best adventures) to help you create the ultimate travel playlist.

This post has been slightly modified from the original which appeared first on Great Ocean Road Guide

100 BEST Travel Songs to help you put together the Ultimate Travel Playlist!

RELATED: If you’re always the one leading everyone in song on your adventures – why not grab one of the best guitars for travel and make yourself the band too!

Classic Travel songs you won’t be able to help but sing along to

• I’m So Excited – The Pointer Sisters When you hit the road and put your foot on the gas we can’t think of a better song get to you in the travel spirit.
• Start Me Up – The Rolling Stones And I can’t Get No Satisfaction – two of the best rock anthems on the planet!
• Don’t Stop Me Now and/or Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen Who could stop you when you’ve got these epic rock songs pounding out your speakers?! (I’d vote for both too!)
• Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac The perfect lyrics for your adventurous trip, especially when it’s time to throw caution to the wind and go your own way Stevie Nicks style !
• Jump In My Car – Ted Mulry Gang A song about cars – and ‘trustworthy men’, if you’ve ever gotten in a car with a stranger while on your travels (even it was just in the cab from the airport!), this one is for you. And it was recently covered by The Hof’ , who enjoyed quite a bit of success!
• Paradise City – Guns N’ Roses You know it’s time for this hard rock classic when you’ve finally found your paradise city during your travels.
• Born to be Wild – Steppenwolf We mentioned this hit in our intro to this guide and we’ll mention it again because it’s a true classic, has a fantastic driving beat and your travel playlist wouldn’t be complete without it.
• Midnight Train to Georgia – Gladys Knight and the Pips This Motown classic is a perfect addition to every travel playlist and is an old-style sing what you see song about traveling.
• What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong  As a smooth sounding reminder that the world really is wonderful.
• Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond Altogether now.. Sweet Car-o-line Ba Ba Bah….
• Hotel California – The Eagles “On a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair..” will you end up in your own Hotel California ?! (this is also one of my favorite songs about adventure of all time – those guitar riffs!)
• I Love Rock n Roll – The Black Jets Not only is this a great sing-along but if you do love rock n roll it’s going to be your fave road trip hit
• I Drove all night – Roy Orbison We’re not suggesting you drive all night but for when there’s a long road ahead (or the long road to regular travel recovery!), this song is here for you.
• Waterloo – Abba How could we compile a classic travel playlist without a bit of Abba!?
• A Boy Name Sue – Johnny Cash This sing-a-long know-all-the-words song has been the soundtrack to many a travel adventure.
• Summer Loving – Grease When the sun is shining and you have a travel buddy to sing along with, Grease is our go-to soundtrack.
• We Didn’t Start The Fire – Billy Joel Or New York State of Mind – If you don’t know the words to these epic songs, now is the time to learn!
• When the Going gets tough – Billy Ocean You are likely to feel the pressure on any road trip, we feel you! So when the going gets tough, whack this song on the stereo.

• Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd This 1974 hit is an obvious choice for your all-American adventure.
• California Dreaming – Mamas and the Papas Another American classic deserving of top travel song status.
• Here I Go Again – Whitesnake
• Heaven Is A Place On Earth – Belinda Carlisle The no.1 song to put on when you finally come across your true heaven on earth
• I Get Around – Beach Boys Such a perfect road trip song & an epic addition to a summer playlist.
• Like a Rolling Stone – Bob Dylan
• River Deep, Mountain High – Tina Turner What adventure would be complete without a bit of Tina Turner, especially when you have some winding roads to tackle.
• ABC – Jackson 5 It’s a feel-good classic we all love and one nobody can resist singing along to.
• Redemption Song – Bob Marley & The Wailers
• One Night in Bangkok – Murray Head One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster…
• Take me Home, Country Roads – John Denver Something a little nostalgic for when it’s time to head on home.
• Highway to Hell – ACDC We hope you don’t end up on the highway to hell, but rocking out to this would certainly make the journey more fun!
• Life is a Highway by Tom Cochrane Although I am partial to the Rascall Flatts version myself. (Both because it’s Disney & Country; and I’m a Disney geek who loves country music at heart.)
• Midnight Rider – Allman Brothers Band
• In the Air Tonight – Phil Collins A song to pop on when you need something a little more soothing to leave you feeling chilled out when the traffic is getting to you or the night is winding down this beautiful love song is just what you need.
• Little Red Corvette – Prince You can’t have a travel playlist without including a song about a little red corvette – I mean, what an epic car for a road trip!
• Goodbye Yellow Brick Road – Elton John Or literally any other Elton John song! Three of my faves are Don’t Go Breaking My Heart, Crocodile Rock & Sacrifice, oh and the Way You Look Tonight (there’s more, I could easily get carried away here)

• Born To Run – Bruce Springsteen No matter how far you are going, this Bruce Springsteen classic is one of the great driving songs for any length of journey. Baby you were born to run!!
• Ticket To Ride – The Beatles Any Beatles song is great travel fodder, so I’d also go ahead and include Hey Jude, Yellow Submarine or She Loves You too!
• Tush – ZZ Top
• In the Summertime – Thirsty Merc  Summer rays and laid back days, this summer sing-a-long song has to be included on your travel playlist.
• You’ve got a Friend – James Taylor  An epic travel song that often rounds out a night of drinking at the end of a group trip.
• Small Town – John Mellencamp
• I’m Gonna Be (I would walk 500 Miles) – The Proclaimers If you’re going to walk 500 miles, that’s dedication to any trip!
• You Shook Me All Night Long – AC/DC  A band whos providence is disputed – the brothers are Scottish born, but the band was formed in Sydney – either way, this sing-a-long rock anthem is a welcome addition to your travel playlist. I
• You’re the Voice – John Farnham  If you only take one iconic Australian song from this list. Make it this one.
• Working Class Man – Jimmy Barnes  No Australian Adventure would be complete without some Jimmy Barnes.
• On The Road Again – Willie Nelson For car and road puns, this Willie Nelson song is pretty self-explanatory!
• American Pie – Don Mclean “A long long time ago, I can still remember, how that music used to make me smile…” and I know you know the rest of the words!
• Run To Paradise – The Choirboys OK, so this song may be about people on the northern beaches of Sydney getting drunk, smoking dope, surfing and not working – but it’s got a cracking title line you’ll just love singing along to!
• Livin’ on a Prayer or It’s my Life – Bon Jovi (or Always , or I’ll Be There for You , or You Give Love a Bad Name – so many Bon Jovi anthems make for amazing travel songs!)
• The Horses – Daryl Braithwaite  It’s practically unaustralian to not know the words (or at least the chorus!) to this song. That goes for non-Aussies too.
• Africa – Toto Because everyone knows to bless the rains down in Africa …
• Down Under – Men at Work  Continuing n the Australia theme – this feel good track asks if YOU come from a land down under?!
• Fast Car – Tracy Chapman Smooth and sultry, Tracy’s voice can help pass the time in the car or dream of travel  if you’re only in the parking lot!
• Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey Perfect for any occasion, this ultimate travel song should be included on any playlist on the planet!
• Always On My Mind – Elvis Presley  Ok, so this may not be a true travel song, but it reminds me of Practical Magic, which in turn reminds me of America – where I have traveled a lot.
• Leaving on a Jet Plane – John Denver  Could this be the ultimate song about traveling? All my bags are packed, I’m ready to go…
• Hit the Road Jack – Ray Charles A classic, this is the perfect song to play on a roadtrip.
• Running on Empty – Jackson Browne Although I hope your vehicle doesn’t end up running on empty!
• Free Fallin’ or Running Down a Dream – Tom Petty No travel playlist would be complete without these two Tom Petty classics.
• American Woman – Lenny Kravitz Even if its just for the riff at the beginning.
• Walking in Memphis – Marc Cohn  What I wouldn’t give to touch down in the land of the delta blues in the middle of the pouring rain!

Modern-day Travel songs that will make you turn up the volume

• It’s a Beautiful Day – Michael Buble Because what day isn’t a beautiful day when you’re on a travel adventure of a lifetime!
• Road Trippin’ or Californication – Red Hot Chili Peppers An obvious choice for your travel and road trip playlist but it’s a soothing hit that is one for when you just need to chill out and reflect
• Happy – Pharell Williams It was the biggest song of the year and still doesn’t fail to make us feel anything but happy!
• On Top Of The World – Imagine Dragons This song will have you singing out to the steering wheel as you cruise down the road on a summer day. It’s perfect, happy, feel good, road trip music.
• Can’t Hold Us – Macklemore For when you are getting pumped for a night on the town after a long day adventuring
• Save The World Tonight – Swedish House Mafia For all the dancing in the car/mini-bus vibes, this is one of those travel songs to sing your heart out to!
• Freedom – Kygo, Zak Able Because it’s available on Instagram and travel bloggers use it in stories and reels, it achieved practically instant travel song status.
• Rolling In The Deep – Adele Sing your heart out with Adele by your side as you hit the highway. This is one of my best road trip songs!
• Galway Girl or Castle on the Hill – Ed Sheeran Oh Ed how we love you, especially when we are driving down those country lanes, or going strong in the bar at last orders!
• All the Small Things – Blink 182 Depending on how old you are, this hit may already be a classic… but who cares, it’s a top song to sing your heart out to.
• The Dog Days Are Over – Florence + The Machine When you need a release and need that little bit of inspiration during your road trip, Florence is there for you.
• Monster – The Automatic We hope you won’t come across a monster on your travels but you know what song to play if you do!
• Truckin – Grateful Dead
• Stole the Show – Kygo ft. Parson James  To be honest any Kygo song is an ideal chillout option for your road trip playlist but we love this one as a feel-good number.

• Single Ladies – Beyoncé For when you’re on a road trip with the girls, it’s the one and only Queen Bey all the way!
• California Gurls – Katy Perry ft. Snoop Dogg  “You could travel the world but nothing comes close to the golden coast”
• Where The Streets Have No Name by U2
• Scar – Missy Higgins  This may seem a little bit of an obscure suggetion, but I guarantee you know the words.
• Gold Digger – Kanye West  Or for another of Kanye Wests hits, you could substitute this for Jesus Walks
• Shotgun – George Ezra When it’s time to ride shotgun, put on some George Ezra – it’s the perfect sing-a-long song for a girls road trip playlist.
• I Will Wait – Mumford and Sons Embrace your inner folk when you sing along with Marcus Mumford & Co.
• Oops!…I Did It Again – Britney Spears We certainly won’t be apologizing for including Britney in our playlist because a road trip isn’t worth going on without her.
• Havana – Camila Cabello Havana-oo-na-na – tell me you didn’t sing that?!
• Shut up and Drive – Rhianna You tell them RiRi!
• Let Me Ride – Dr Dre It’s a road trip anthem, and what travel playlist would be complete without a bit of 90s rap?!
• Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper Heading out on an adventure with your girls? This is the song for you.
• Keep the Car Running – Arcade Fires
• Cruel World – Lana Del Rey I dare you not to sing-a-long!
• A Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton Because you could indeed be traveling a thousand miles, and who wouldn’t want to sing about that?!
• Everyday is a Winding Road – Sheryl Crow Because songs about the open road to nowhere make perfect sense on any travel playlist!

So how did we do? Aren’t these just the best travel songs for the perfect travel playlist!? Whether we’ve reminded you of some amazing driving songs and road trip classics or introduced you to some brand new travel songs, we hope they are just the start of your next amazing adventure!

We hope you enjoyed our guide to the Best Travel Songs. Do you already have a travel playlists in mind that we have added to? Are you journeying around your home-country or exploring pastures new? Tell us in the comments below, along with your all-time favorite travel song and if it’s not already on our list, we can’t wait to hear it!

And if you liked the travel songs featured on our travel playlist page, take a look at the other recent posts, packing tips, travel accessories, travel quotes, travel resources, travel guides, ultimate guides and packing lists in this series:

• Group Tours: See more in less time – the Best Group Tours on Every Continent
• Europe: Rome Travel Guide for First-Timers , Guide to Barcelona for First Time Visitors & The Best Places to Visit in Spain
• Amazing Africa: Check out the Best Places To Visit in Africa and start exploring this incredible continent – or just watch the Best Movies About Africa and get your armchair travel on!
• Festivals: Festival Fan? You’ll love these Incredible Festivals From Around the World
• Be Prepared: The Best Carry On For Travel (tested on most airlines!) PLUS the best passport wallets & 40 Insanely Useful Backpacking Essentials to make sure you have everything you need once you’ve been inspired by our inspiration quote series!

Hi There! Thanks for reading my travel tips for the  100 Best Travel Songs for your Ultimate Travel Playlist! I just wanted to let you know that this post may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full disclosure here . And thank you for reading the MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld travel blog.

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 !

Two Outliers may contain affiliate links – we only recommend products we personally use and love. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our privacy policy.

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!

You may also like

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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Insider’s Guide to the 100+ Best Songs about Travel

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: July 7, 2022

Categories Travel Tips

Looking for an expertly curated, super comprehensive selection of the all-time best songs about travel ?

If so then this list of 100+ best songs about travel is DEFFO for you. I mean, not only have I been traveling the world for the past 15+ years but I also love music.

So, when I’m not traveling, you can find me rocking out to some of the best songs about travel on this list.

Yeah, you may or may not find me hardcore lip-synching to some of these best travel songs while I dance around my room like Elaine from Seinfeld .

Heck, I even listen to a lot of these sick beats when I’m on the road and jamming to my very own travel songs playlist .

Therefore, if you’re in need of a bit of musical inspiration then give this list of the best songs about travel a read.

Because whether you’re traveling to New York, San Francisco, or somewhere in between, you’re sure to find the top travel songs for you!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

1. Alaska by Maggie Rogers

“I was walking through icy streams

That took my breath away

Moving slowly through westward water

Over glacial plains

And I walked off you

And I walked off an old me

Oh me, oh my, I thought it was a dream

So it seemed”

2. Taj Mahal by Sam Roberts Band

“Sitting with you on the banks of the Ganges

Stealing a kiss on the streets of Bombay

Caressing your hair like the wind through the palm trees

I never dreamed that anyone could take you away

Keep on keep on keep on singing

I’m building a beautiful statue

To make sure that no one forgets you”

3. Carolina in My Mind by James Taylor

“In my mind I’m gone to Carolina

Can’t you see the sunshine?

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”

4. New York State of Mind by Billy Joel

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”

Pro Tip: Be sure to check out some of the other best songs about NYC . This is also just one of my personal picks for best travel songs since I’m from New York.

5. Hello Seattle by Owl City

“Hello Seattle, I am a manta ray

Deep beneath the blue waves

I’ll crawl the sandy bottom of Puget Sound

And construct my summer home”

6. Miles from Minnesota by The Lower 48

“Yes next year we’ll go traveling

Our escapades so baffling

Our sovereign love returning to the sea

We’ll be miles from Minnesota then

Writing letters we won’t send

For no words shall contain what will be

Well your sweet voice and my rough hands

When darkness prowls we will dance

Through bluffs and fields and orchards with the moon

Yes next year we will leave this place summer’s kiss is just a taste

Fall’s warm embrace is coming to us soon

Oh! We’ve got everywhere to go

You should sleep, I’ll see you in the morning”

7. God Blessed Texas by Little Texas

“God blessed Texas

With His own hand

Brought down angels from the promised land

Gave ’em a place where they could dance

If you want to see heaven, brother, here’s you chance

I’ve been sent to spread the message

God blessed Texas”

8. Graceland by Paul Simon

“The Mississippi Delta was shining

Like a National guitar

I am following the river

Down the highway

Through the cradle of the civil war

I’m going to Graceland”

9. Miles Away by The Maine

“I took a trip up the west coast

Was searching for a temp so low

And a summer high

The Sun swayed and set slow

Made waves with some friends I know

Got lost in the ebb and flow

Of the drifting tide

I didn’t ever want to come down

From that west coast rush and summer high

And easy, peaceful sense of time”

10. I’m Shipping Up To Boston by Dropkick Murphys

“I’m a sailor peg

And I’ve lost my leg

Climbing up the top sails

I’ve lost my leg!

I’m shipping up to Boston, whoa

I’m shipping off to find my wooden leg”

11. Lovers in Japan by Coldplay

“Tonight, maybe we’re gonna run

Dreamin’ of the Osaka sun

Ohh, ohh, ohhh

Dreamin’ of when the morning comes”

12. Aux Champs-Élysées by Joe Dassin

“Aux Champs-Elysées, aux Champs-Elysées

Au soleil, sous la pluie, à midi ou à minuit

Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Elysées”

And in English:

“Champs-Elysees, Champs-Elysees

In the sun, in the rain, at noon or midnight

There is everything you want on the Champs-Elysées”

I’m Shipping Up To Boston – Dropkick Murphys

I’m a sailor peg

13. Rock the Casbah by The Clash

“Sharif don’t like it

Rockin’ the Casbah

Rock the Casbah

Sharif don’t like it

Rock the Casbah”

14. Brazil by Declan McKenna

“I wanna play the beautiful game while I’m in Brazil

‘Cause everybody plays the beautiful game while out in Brazil

‘Cause it’s all you’ve ever wanted, and it’s all that you want still

Don’t you wanna play the beautiful game out in Brazil?”

15. Surfin’ USA by The Beach Boys

“Haggerties and Swamies

Pacific Palisades

San Anofree and Sunset

Redondo Beach L. A.

All over La Jolla

At Waimea Bay

Everybody’s gone surfin’

Surfin’ U.S. A.”

16. California by Phantom Planet

“Hustlers grab your guns

Your shadow weighs a ton

Driving down the 101

California here we come

Right back where we started from

California, here we come.”

17. Mexico by James Taylor

“Way down here you need a reason to move

Feel a fool running your stateside games

Lose your load, leave your mind behind Baby Jane

It sounds so simple I just got to go

The sun’s so hot I forgot to go home

Guess I’ll have to go now”

18. Beverly Hills by Weezer

“Beverly Hills

That’s where I want to be (gimme, gimme)

Livin’ in Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills

Rollin’ like a celebrity (gimme, gimme)

Livin’ in Beverly Hills”

19. Barcelona by George Ezra

“Every time you have to go

Shut my eyes and you know

I’ll be lying right by your side

In Barcelona”

20. Rocky Road to Dublin by The Irish Descendants

Well in Dublin next arrived, I thought it’d be a pity

To be so soon deprived a view of that fine city

So then I took a stroll down among the quality

Me bundle it was stolen in a neat locality

Something crossed me mind, then I looked behind

No bundle could I find upon me stick a-wobblin’

Inquiring for the rogue, said me connaught brogue wasn’t much in vogue

On the rocky road to Dublin”

21. America by Simon & Garfunkel

“Cathy, I said as we boarded a Greyhound in Pittsburgh

Michigan seems like a dream to me now

It took me four days to hitchhike from Saginaw

I’ve gone to look for America”

22. Walking in Memphis by Marc Cohn

“Saw the ghost of Elvis

On Union Avenue

Followed him up to the gates of Graceland

Then I watched him walk right through

Now security they did not see him

They just hovered ’round his tomb

But there’s a pretty little thing

Waiting for the King

Down in the Jungle Room

When I was walking in Memphis

I was walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale

Walking in Memphis

But do I really feel the way I feel?”

23. Africa by Toto

“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

It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you

There’s nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do

I bless the rains down in Africa

Gonna take some time to do the things we never have”

Pro Tip: Weezer also did a fantastic cover of this song in 2018 that you should DEFFO add to your list of best travel songs today.

24. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) by Shakira

“Today’s your day

You paved the way

If you get down get up oh oh

When you get down get up eh eh

Tsamina mina zangalewa

This time for Africa”

25. Marrakech Express by Crosby, Stills, & Nash

“Take the train from Casablanca going south

Blowing smoke rings from the corners of my my, my, my, my mouth

Colored cottons hang in air

Charming cobras in the square

Striped jellabas we can wear at home

Don’t you know we’re riding on the Marrakesh Express”

26. Blue Hawaii by Elvis Presley

“Come with me

While the moon is on the sea

The night is young

And so are we, so are we

Dreams come true

In blue Hawaii”

27. I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

“I’ve been everywhere, man

I’ve been everywhere, man

Crossed the deserts bare, man

I’ve breathed the mountain air, man

Travel, I’ve had my share, man

I’ve been everywhere

I’ve been to

Winslow”

28. Rio by Netsky and featuring Macklemore

“It’s the “Rio” remix, you should see us

Swimming in the ocean like the pool is hella heated

Expedited Visa and I’m posted with my feet up

Parasailing over beaches, got my girl from Ipanema”

29. Back in the U.S.S.R. by The Beatles

“Well the Ukraine girls really knock me out

They leave the West behind

And Moscow girls make me sing and shout

That Georgia’s always on my mind

Aw come on!

Yeah I’m back in the U.S.S.R.

You don’t know how lucky you are boys

Back in the U.S.S.R.”

30. April in Paris by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

“I never knew the charm of spring

I never met it face to face

I never knew my heart could sing

I never missed a warm embrace

Till April in Paris, chestnuts in blossom

Holiday tables under the trees

April in Paris, this is a feeling”

31. Budapest by George Ezra

“My house in Budapest

My hidden treasure chest

Golden grand piano

My beautiful Castillo

I’d leave it all

My acres of a land

I have achieved

It may be hard for you to

Stop and believe

But for you

I’d Leave it all

Give me one good reason

Why I should never make a change

And baby if you hold me

Then all of this will go away.”

32. Viva Las Vegas by Elvis Presley

Bright light city gonna set my soul

Gonna set my soul on fire

Got a whole lot of money that’s ready to burn

So get those stakes up higher

There’s a thousand pretty women waitin’ out there

And they’re all livin’ devil may care

And I’m just the devil with love to spare

Viva Las Vegas, viva Las Vegas”

33. Vienna by Ultravox

“The music is weaving

Haunting notes, pizzicato strings

The rhythm is calling

Alone in the night as the daylight brings

A cool empty silence

The warmth of your hand and a cold grey sky

It fades to the distance

The image has gone only you and I

It means nothing to me

This means nothing to me

Oh, Vienna”

34. Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight & the Pips

“He’s leaving (leaving)

On that midnight train to Georgia (leaving on a midnight train)

Said he’s going back (going back to find)

To a simpler place and time (and when he takes that ride)

Oh yes, he is (guess who’s gonna sit right by his side)”

35. Malibu by Miley Cyrus

“But here I am

Next to you

The sky is so blue

Next to you”

36. New York Groove by Ace Frehley

“Many years since I was here

On the street I was passin’ my time away

To the left and to the right,

Buildings towering to the sky

It’s outta sight in the dead of night

Here I am, and in this city, with a fistful of dollars

And baby, you’d better believe

I’m back, back in the New York groove”

37. Road to Nowhere by the Talking Heads

“We’re on a road to nowhere

Come on inside

Takin’ that ride to nowhere

We’ll take that ride”

38. California Love by Tupac and Dr. Dre

“Say what you say, but give me that bomb beat from Dre

Let me serenade the streets of L.A

From Oakland to Sacktown

The Bay Area and back down

Cali is where they put they mack down give me love!

California, knows how to party

In the city of L.A.

In the city of good ol’ Watts

In the city, the city of Compton

We keep it rocking”

39. Renegades by X Ambassadors

“Run away-ay with me

Lost souls in revelry

Running wild and running free

Two kids, you and me

Hey, hey-hey-hey

Livin’ like we’re renegades

Hey-hey-hey

Renegades.”

Pro Tip: This is a fantastic song that is highly underrated IMHO. So, be sure to add it to your playlist filled with the best songs about travel.

40. Miami by Will Smith

“Party in the city where the heat is on

All night, on the beach till the break of dawn

‘Welcome to Miami’

‘Bienvenidos a Miami’

Bouncin’ in the club where the heat is on

I’m goin to Miami

‘Welcome to Miami'”

41. The Wanderer by Dion DiMucci

“I’m the type of guy that likes to roam around

I’m never in one place I roam from town to town

And when I find myself a-fallin’ for some girl, yeah

I hop right into that car of mine and ride around the world

Yeah I’m the wanderer, yeah the wanderer

I roam around around around, let’s go”

42. Hotel California by The Eagles

“Welcome to the Hotel California

Such a lovely place (Such a lovely place)

Such a lovely face

Plenty of room at the Hotel California

Any time of year (Any time of year)

You can find it here.”

43. Where the Streets Have No Name by U2

“Where the streets have no name

Where the streets have no name

We’re still building then burning down love

Burning down love

And when I go there, I go there with you

It’s all I can do.”

44. Empire State of Mind by Jay-Z and featuring Alicia Keys

“In New York (Ay, aha) (Uh, yeah)

Concrete jungle (Yeah) where dreams are made of

There’s nothing you can’t do (Yeah) (OK)

Now you’re in New York (Aha, aha, aha) (Uh, yeah)

These streets will make you feel brand-new (New)

Big lights will inspire you (Come on) (OK)

Let’s hear it for New York (You welcome, OG) (Uh)

New York (Yeah), New York (Uh)”

45. Around the World by Daft Punk

“Around the world, around the world

Around the world, around the world

Around the world, around the world”

46. Down Under by Men at Work

“Buying bread from a man in Brussels

He was six foot four and full of muscle

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

Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder

You better run, you better take cover.”

47. Traveling On by The Decemberists

“Cause we’re traveling on

Sold for a song

We’re traveling on

And it won’t be long

‘Til we’re traveling on”

48. Hopeless Wanderer by Mumford & Sons

“But hold me fast, hold me fast

‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer

And hold me fast, hold me fast

‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer”

49. When I’m Gone (The Cups Song) by Anna Kendrick

“I’ve got my ticket for the long way ‘round

The one with the prettiest of views

It’s got mountains, it’s got rivers, it’s got sights to give you shivers

But it sure would be prettier with you

When I’m gone

You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone

You’re gonna miss me by my walk

You’re gonna miss me by my talk, oh

You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone”

50. Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen

“Someday girl I don’t know when

We’re gonna get to that place

Where we really wanna go

And we’ll walk in the sun

But till then tramps like us

Baby we were born to run”

51. Moon River by Audrey Hepburn

“Two drifters, off to see the world

There’s such a lot of world to see

We’re after the same rainbow’s end, waitin’ ’round the bend

My huckleberry friend, moon river, and me”

52. Life is a Highway by Rascal Flatts

“Life is a highway

I wanna ride it all night long

If you’re going my way

I wanna drive it all night long”

53. Kathmandu by Bob Seger

“I think I’m going to Katmandu

‍That’s really, really where I’m going to

If I ever get out of here

That’s what I’m gonna do

I know my plane is due

The one that’s going to Katmandu

Up to the mountain’s where I’m going to

K-k-k-k-k-k Kathmandu‍”

54. The Passenger by Iggy Pop

“I am a passenger

And I ride and I ride

I ride through the city’s backside

I see the stars come out of the sky

Yeah, they’re bright in a hollow sky

You know it looks so good tonight

I am a passenger

I stay under glass

I look through my window so bright

I see the stars come out tonight

I see the bright and hollow sky

Over the city’s ripped-back sky

And everything looks good tonight”

55. Havana by Camila Cabello

“Havana, ooh na-na

Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh na-na

He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na, ah

Oh, but my heart is in Havana” ‍

56. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

“You got a fast car

Is it fast enough so we can fly away?

We gotta make a decision

Leave tonight or live and die this way”

57. Paris by The Chainsmokers

“We were staying in Paris

To get away from your parents

You look so proud

Standing there with a frown and a cigarette

Posting pictures of yourself on the internet”

58. Hotel Walls by Smith & Thell

“So I stand back and I watch us fall

As we break everything inside these hotel walls

Life’s for rent and it called us out

So I hand back the key as the door man bows”

Pro Tip: This is a really great Swedish band and you should listen to some of their other best travel songs too, like Forgive Me, Friend .

59. Vacation by The Go-Go’s

“Vacation

All I ever wanted

Had to get away

Meant to be spent alone”

60. 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”

61. No Sleep Till Brooklyn by The Beastie Boys

“No sleep ’till

No sleep ’till Brooklyn

No sleep till Brooklyn”

62. Barcelona by 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

Barcelona”

63. Homeward Bound by Simon & Garfunkel

“Every day’s an endless stream

Of cigarettes and magazines

And each town looks the same to me, the movies and the factories

And every stranger’s face I see reminds me that I long to be

Homeward bound

I wish I was

Home where my thought’s escaping

Home where my music’s playing

Home where my love lies waiting

Silently for me”

64. Tennessee by Arrested Development

“They tell me my ears are so young

Go back, from whence you came

My family tree, my family name

For some strange reason it had to be

He guided me to Tennessee

Take me to another place, take me to another land

Make me forget all that hurts me, let me understand your plan”

65. In America by Neil Diamond

“Everywhere around the world

They’re coming to America

Every time that flag’s unfurled

Got a dream to take them there

Got a dream they’ve come to share

They’re coming to America”

66. No Roots by Alice Merton

“I like standing still, but that’s just a wishful plan

Ask me where I come from, I’ll say a different land

But I’ve got memories and travel like gypsies in the night

I count gates and numbers, then play the guessing game

It’s just the place that changes, the rest is still the same

And a thousand times I’ve seen this road

A thousand times

I’ve got no roots, but my home was never on the ground”

67. California Dreamin’ by the Mamas and the Papas

“All the leaves are brown (all the leaves are brown)

And the sky is gray (and the sky is gray)

I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk)

On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day)

I’d be safe and warm (I’d be safe and warm)

If I was in L.A. (if I was in L.A.)

California dreamin’ (California dreamin’)

On such a winter’s day”

68. Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus

“I hopped off the plane at LAX

With a dream and my cardigan

Welcome to the land of fame excess (Whoa)

Am I gonna fit in?

Jumped in the cab, here I am for the first time

Look to my right, and I see the Hollywood sign

This is all so crazy

Everybody seems so famous

My tummy’s turnin’ and I’m feelin’ kinda homesick

Too much pressure and I’m nervous

That’s when the taxi man turned on the radio

And a JAY-Z song was on

So I put my hands up

They’re playin’ my song, the butterflies fly away

I’m noddin’ my head like, “Yeah”

Movin’ my hips like, “Yeah”

Got my hands up, they’re playing my song

You know I’m gonna be okay

Yeah, it’s a party in the U.S.A.

Yeah, it’s a party in the U.S.A.”

69. Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran

“You know, she played the fiddle in an Irish band

But she fell in love with an Englishman

Kissed her on the neck and then I took her by the hand

Said, “Baby, I just wanna dance”

With my pretty little Galway girl

You’re my pretty little Galway girl”

70. Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz

I want to get away

I want to fly away

Yeah, yeah, yeah‍”

71. Kokomo by The Beach Boys

“Aruba, Jamaica, ooh, I want to take you to

Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama

Key Largo, Montego, baby, why don’t we go?

Ooh, I want to take you down to Kokomo

We’ll get there fast and then we’ll take it slow

That’s where we want to go, way down in Kokomo”

72. Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffett

“Wastin’ away again in Margaritaville

Searchin’ for my lost shaker of salt

Salt, salt, salt

Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame

I agree with that

And I know it’s all you women’s fault”

73. Have Love Will Travel by The Sonics

Yeah, I travel from Maine to Mexico

Just to find a little girl that loves me so

No matter when, no matter where I’ll be

I’m looking for a woman that’ll satisfy me

Whoa, baby, will travel

I said, yeah, yeah, have love

Woah, baby, will travel

I said, if you need loving then

Mm, hmm, I’ll travel

Woah!”

74. Chicago by Sufjan Stevens

“I fell in love again

All things go, all things go

Drove to Chicago

All things know, all things know”

75. One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head

“One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster

The bars are temples but the pearls ain’t free

You’ll find a god in every golden cloister

A little flesh, a little history

I can feel an angel sliding up to me”

76. Leaving on a Jetplane by John Denver

“So kiss me and smile for me

Tell me that you’ll wait for me

Hold me like you’ll never let me go

‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane

Don’t know when I’ll be back again

Oh babe, I hate to go”

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

“But I would roll 500 miles

And I would roll 500 more

Just to be the man who roles a thousand miles

To fall down at your door”

78. Ramblin’ Man by The Allman Brothers Band

“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

Lord, I was born a ramblin’ man

Tryin’ to make a livin’ and doin’ the best I can

And when it’s time for leavin’

I hope you’ll understand

That I was born a ramblin’ man”

79. Istanbul (Not Constantinople) by They Might Be Giants

“Every gal in Constantinople

Lives in Istanbul, not Constantinople

So if you’ve a date in Constantinople

She’ll be waiting in Istanbul

Even old New York was once New Amsterdam

Why they changed it I can’t say

People just liked it better that way”

80. Vertigo by FM Belfast

“We are going far away

We are going far away

Don’t you look down

You are high above ground

We are driving with our friends

We are driving to a faraway place”

81. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

“Sweet home Alabama

Where the skies are so blue

Sweet home Alabama

Lord, I’m comin’ home to you”

82. On the Road Again by Willie Nelson

“On the road again

Like a band of gypsies, we go down the highway

We’re the best of friends

Insisting that the world keep turning our way

And our way

Is on the road again”

83. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf

“Born to be wild

Born to be wild

Get your motor runnin’

Head out on the highway

Looking for adventure

In whatever comes our way”

84. Roam by The B-52’s

“Roam if you want to

Roam around the world

Roam if you want to

Without wings, without wheels

Without anything but the love we feel”

85. Send Me on My Way by Rusted Root

Well, I would like to hold my little hand

And we will run, we will, we will crawl, we will

I would like to hold my little hand

And we will run, we will, we will crawl

Send me on my way (on my way)”

86. Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

“Country roads, take me home

To the place I belong

West Virginia, mountain mama

Take me home, country roads”

87. San Francisco by Scott McKenzie

“If you’re going to San Francisco

Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair

If you’re going to San Francisco

You’re gonna meet some gentle people there.”

88. London Calling by The Clash

“The ice age is coming, the sun is zooming in

Engines stop running, the wheat is growin’ thin

A nuclear era, but I have no fear

‘Cause London is drowning, and I, I live by the river”

89. Wonderwall by Oasis (Popular amongst guitar players in hostels the world over)

“And all the roads we have to walk are winding

And all the lights that lead us there are blinding

There are many things that I would like to say to you, but I don’t know how

Because maybe

You’re gonna be the one that saves me

And after all

You’re my wonderwall”

Random Aside : Honestly, if you haven’t heard someone play this pick for one of the best travel songs on their guitar in a hostel, have you really traveled? And the correct answer is, probably not!

90. Come Fly With Me by Frank Sinatra

“Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away

If you can use some exotic booze

There’s a bar in far Bombay

Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away.”

91. Truckin’ by the Grateful Dead

“Truckin’, like the do-dah man

Once told me, ‘You’ve got to play your hand’

Sometimes the cards ain’t worth a dime

If you don’t lay ’em down.”

92. What We Live For by American Authors

“We’re taking off, woo

We’re taking off, woo

This is what I live for

Baby, you’re my open road.”

93. Holiday by Madonna

“If we took a holiday

Took some time to celebrate

Just one day out of life

It would be, it would be so nice.”

94. Gravity by Cold Play

“Baby

It’s been a long time coming

Such a long, long time

And I can’t stop running

Can you hear my heart beating?

Can you hear that sound?

‘Cause I can’t help thinking

And I won’t stop now“

95. Leaving Las Vegas by Cheryl Crow

“I’m leaving Las Vegas

Lights so bright, palm sweat, blackjack on a Saturday night

Leaving Las Vegas

Leaving for good, for good

I’m leaving for good

I’m leaving for good”

96. Free by Donovan Frankenreiter

“Here comes corner winds and the changin’ tide

We better drop them sails and get inside

When will the weather ever let us go

I guess we’ll have to wait until the trade winds blow”

97. Come Away with Me by Norah Jones

“Come away with me and we’ll kiss

On a mountain top

Come away with me

And I’ll never stop lovin’ you”

98. American Boy by Estelle and featuring Kanye West

“Take me on a trip, I’d like to go some day

Take me to New York, I’d love to see LA

I really want to come kick it with you

You’ll be my American boy.”

99. Destination Calabria by Alex Gaudino featuring Crystal Waters

“I left my job, my boss, my car and my home

I’m leaving for a destination I still don’t know”

100. Toes by the Zac Brown Band

“I got my toes in the water, ass in the sand

Not a worry in the world, a cold beer in my hand

Life is good today”

101. Last Train Home by John Mayer

“I’m on the last train runnin’

I’m on the last train runnin’

And I surrender

And I surrender”

102. Two Tickets To Paradise by Eddie Money

“I’m gonna take you on a trip so far from here,

I’ve got two tickets in my pocket, now baby, we’re gonna disappear.

We’ve waited so long, waited so long.

We’ve waited so long, waited so long.“

103. Do You Want to See the World by the Kooks

“Do you want to see the world?

In a different way, yeah”

104. A Million Miles Away by David Byrne

“Oh oh

A million miles away from here”

105. Space Oddity by David Bowie

“This is Major Tom to Ground Control

I’m stepping through the door

And I’m floating in a most peculiar way

And the stars look very different today

Am I sitting in a tin can

Far above the world

Planet Earth is blue

And there’s nothing I can do”

Additional Travel Resources You’ll Love

• Best Travel Quotes
• Best Travel Captions for Instagram
• Best Songs About West Virginia

There you have it! That just about wraps up this list of the best travel songs of all time!

Tell me, did your favorite road trip songs make the list if not then let. me know in the comments below, and if you found this post about the best travel songs useful, don’t forget to pin this post now so that you can read it again later.

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15 Best Songs About Travel

Is there anything better than cranking up the radio when you’re on the road? There’s something perfectly transporting about letting music fill your car, or just your head if you’re traveling publicly and need to use headphones. It’s almost as if the music gets you to your destination sooner, so it’s no coincidence that many of our most popular songs are about places to escape to when life has gotten to be too much.

We’ve put together the ultimate playlist of 15 classic songs about popular travel destinations. From the sunny shores of California to the gritty streets of New York and across the ocean, the list has something for every traveler. Or, if you’re just daydreaming about your next trip, let our list inspire you. What will it be? Aruba? Jamaica? Bermuda? Bahama?

1. 'Kokomo' by The Beach Boys

Well, we gave it away above, but of course this classic from the Beach Boys leads off our list! It’s the most recent hit in a long string of them for this band. Most Beach Boys songs celebrated the joys of California, but this one heads south to a place “off the Florida Keys” where you can “get away from it all" — Kokomo.

Sadly, Kokomo isn’t a real place, but the relaxed vibe of this song perfectly captures the feeling many of us want when we travel.

2. 'Carolina in My Mind' by James Taylor

James Taylor grew up in North Carolina, and his classic song about escaping back there when life is too tough perfectly captures the allure of his home state. The bridge of the song, “Dark and silent, late last night, I think I might have heard the highway call…” is a familiar feeling to any born traveler.

Listen to this song for long and you’ll be pulling up your favorite travel app  to see how much a direct flight to the Outer Banks is. Gone, you're gone…

3. 'Midnight Train to Georgia' by Gladys Knight and the Pips

Continuing our journey through the American South, we’d be remiss if we didn’t reference this iconic song by Ms. Knight and her back-up singers, which manages to refer to both a glorious destination (Georgia, of course) and the means to get there (that midnight train).

It’s probably not possible to take a midnight train to Georgia or much of anywhere else these days, but oh, the harmonies on this song!

4. 'Take Me Home, Country Roads' by John Denver

When we took a poll for favorite songs about specific destinations, this one was mentioned over and over again. And while it’s such an evocative celebration of West Virginia’s natural beauty that it became the state’s official song in 2014, that longing captured in Denver’s voice is really what makes the song universal.

Who of us hasn’t longed to go back “to the place I belong”? By the way, Denver had never even been to West Virginia when he wrote it!

5. 'Sweet Home Alabama' by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Here’s another absolute classic that’s about traveling home, which we defy you not to sing whenever anyone mentions traveling to Alabama.

Not only has this song made iconic appearances in several movies (like Nicole Kidman’s unforgettable dance to it in "To Die For"), it manages to diss to Neil Young, as well. But, oh, that guitar riff! Roll down the windows and turn up the volume…

6. 'California Dreaming' by the Mamas and the Papas

The four-part harmony of the Mamas and the Papas evocatively captures the longing many of us have felt on a dreary day at home, when we’ve dreamt of our packing our bags and heady to more sunny climates immediately.

“If I didn’t tell her,” they sing, “I could leave today.” It’s so tempting.

7. 'I Left My Heart in San Francisco' by Tony Bennett

Bennett is just one of many artists to record this classic, but his version is iconic. The song namechecks quite a few places we wouldn’t mind going – Paris, Rome – but then returns the singer to the best place of all, San Francisco, where the “golden sun will shine for me.”

San Francisco can be pretty grey, actually, but the song still hits the spot. Who of us wouldn’t take a trip to see the Golden Gate Bridge right this very moment?

8. 'I’ve Been to Memphis' by Lyle Lovett

While this song isn’t as well-known as others on the list, it deserves to be. Lyle Lovett released in 1992, but it has the sound of a much older song, the kind Ray Charles might have sung.

Lovett mentions a long list of places he’s been, such as Memphis, El Paso, San Antonio, only to return to his central problem: he loves a woman “what I don't know.”

Anyone who’s spent too much time on the road trying not to think about someone at home will understand.

9. 'April in Paris' by Ella Fitzgerald

Can you put together a road trip playlist and not include some Ella? We certainly can’t. This swinging song evokes springtime in Paris so beautifully, with the lyrics about “chestnuts in blossom” that it takes all of our will power not to buy a ticket for de Gaulle for next spring.

“What have you done to my heart?” Ella asks the city. We totally understand.

10. 'Atlantic City' by Bruce Springsteen

At the opposite end of the music spectrum is this classic rock number. Springsteen makes Atlantic City seem as gritty as can be, between the mobsters, the sketchy boardwalk and the cross-city bus. But still, the song is alluring.

Maybe it’s the promise that if we put “your make up on, put your hair up pretty” we can meet the Boss tonight in Atlantic City? It’s not an offer we’d pass up.

11. 'I Happen to Like New York' by Judy Garland

Look, there are dozens of great songs about New York, from “New York, New York” to “Empire State of Mind,” so we decided to go with a less obvious classic.

Garland’s version of Cole Porter’s song is swell. It manages to mention Hackensack, New Jersey (which is rejected) and a pastrami on rye at the Carnegie Deli (which is celebrated).

As the lyrics inform us, “The more I see New York, the more I think of it.” It’s a sentiment that many of us can agree with wholeheartedly.

12. 'Margaritaville' by Jimmy Buffet

But when the churning energy of cities gets to be too much, you’ll want to head south again, this time to a yet another place in that’s more a state of mind than a geographic location: Margaritaville.

Sometimes trips are really an excuse to waste away, and Buffet’s beloved song perfectly captures that mood. Grab a salt shaker and a bottle, and stay for a while. It’s not like Jimmy’s going to urge you to be more productive.

13. 'Africa' by Toto

We know, it’s already in your head: "dodo dodo dodo dooo." How much this song really has to do with the continent is anyone’s guess, but for many people, this is the song that comes to mind when Africa is mentioned as a travel destination.

The sense of longing and wonder that suffuses it is probably not a bad mindset for a traveler to any destination, but especially to Africa. Bless those rains.

14. 'Back in the U.S.S.R.' by The Beatles

Sure, you technically can’t travel to the U.S.S.R. anymore, but this song is still perfect for a trip to Russia!

The song parodies the Beach Boys’ “California Girls” a bit, with the lyrics like “The Ukraine girls really knock me out,” and the song is just a lot of fun: try to resist singing along to the line: “Georgia on my my my my mind”!

We could only hope a trip to Russia would be this fun!

15. 'America' by Neil Diamond

There are plenty of songs with “America” in the title, too, but we decided that this song by Neil Diamond, which manages somehow to be both a little campy and a little touching, perfectly captured the desire many of us, or our ancestors, felt: to get to the U.S.A. “on the boats and on the planes.”

Sure, the synthesizer is cheesy, but when you think of the amazing travel destinations the States offers, it’s hard not to agree that we’ve all “got a dream to take them there.”

125 Songs About Travel To Fuel Your Wanderlust

If you are like me, then you are always dreaming of travel. 

If I’m not researching  travel captions for Insta , I listen to  songs about travel.  

Honestly, I sometimes wonder if I have a problem…I really seem to be obsessed with travel!

If someone were to see my  travel songs   playlist , they would probably be really confused as to what genre of music I am into. 

I think that is the great thing about music; all genres have great songs.

Playing these songs makes me dream of the days we were honeymooning in Italy , or the many times we sat on the beach in  Mexico .

These travel songs make me happy and are a blessing on a road trip!  

I wanted to share this list of 125 travel songs with you. 

Hopefully, you will find inspiration and happiness in them as well!

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you. That Texas Couple also participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

125 Songs About Travel

Kokomo by Beach Boys

“Aruba, Jamaica ooo I wanna take you To Bermuda, Bahama come on pretty mama Key Largo, Montego baby why don’t we go “

B lue Hawaii by Elvis Presley

“Dreams come true In blue Hawaii And mine could all come true This magic night of nights with you”

Holiday by Madonna

“If we took a holiday Took some time to celebrate Just one day out of life It would be, it would be so nice .”

Gravity by Coldplay  

“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 “

Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffet

This is a classic song about travel, so much so that there are bars worldwide celebrating it! 

Listening to Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffet makes me wish I was drinking a margarita in the  Riviera Maya !  Let’s check out the lyrics!

Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight and the Pips  

“Oh, he’s leavin’ (Leavin’) On that midnight train to Georgia, yeah (Leavin’ on that midnight train)

Said, he’s goin’ back (Goin’ back to find) To a simpler place in time”

Read Next: The Ultimate List of Friends Traveling Quotes

What We Live For by American Authors

If this song doesn’t make you want to load up your  road trip essentials  and hit the road, then I don’t know what will!  What do you think?

“I drive a beat-up car, a caravan, the color blue Reminds me of your eyes and all the places we’ve been to We’re tethered to the leather, searching for a better view It’s interstellar when it’s me and you”

Travelin’ Man 1961 by Ricky Nelson

“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. “

Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) by Shakira

“When you fall, get up, oh oh And if you fall, get up, eh eh Tsamina mina zangalewa ‘Cause this is Africa”

Hello Seattle by Owl City

It’s a pretty simple song, but it will definitely get you thinking about Seattle. LOL!

Havana by Camila Cabello

“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”

Rio by Michael Nesmith

“And I think I will travel to Rio Using the music for flight, There’s nothing I know of in Rio, But it’s something to do with the night. It’s only a whimsical notion To fly down to Rio tonight, And I probably won’t fly down to Rio, But then again, I just might.”

Leaving Las Vegas by Cheryl Crow

“I’m leaving Las Vegas Lights so bright, palm sweat, blackjack on a Saturday night Leaving Las Vegas Leaving for good, for good I’m leaving for good I’m leaving for good”

Fr ee by Donovan Frankenreiter

“Here comes corner winds and the changin’ tide We better drop them sails and get inside When will the weather ever let us go I guess we’ll have to wait until the trade winds blow”

Come Fly With Me by Frank Sinatra

“Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away If you could use some exotic booze There’s a bar in far Bombay Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away”

One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head

“One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster The bars are temples but the pearls ain’t free You’ll find a God in every golden cloister A little flesh, a little history I can feel an angel slidin’ up to me”

Graceland by Paul Simon

“In Graceland, in Graceland I’m going to Graceland For reasons I cannot explain There’s some part of me wants to see Graceland:

The Passenger by Iggy Pop

“I am the passenger And I ride and I ride I ride through the city’s backsides “

Life is a Highway by Rascal Flats

Life is a Highway is definitely a song that will get you in the mood to hit the open road.  Of course, I always relate it to Route 66 thanks to the Cars movie.

Come Away With Me by Norah JonesThis one is all about sneaking away with your loved one.  It makes me want to check all of the items off of my  couple’s bucket list  with Marty!

“Come away with me and we’ll kiss On a mountain top Come away with me And I’ll never stop lovin’ you”

Leaving on a Jet Plane by Peter Paul and Mary

“I’m leavin’ on a jet plane I don’t know when I’ll be back again”

Have Love, Will Travel by The Sonics 

“Well I might take a boat or I’ll take a plane I might hitch hike or jump a railroad train Your kind of love drives a man insane So look for me walking just a any old way”

These Days by The Foo Fighters

Ok, this one is a bit of a stretch and I realize that.  I think I consider this a travel song because I think about how one day we will all be gone and so you better live life to the fullest while you can.

American Boy by Estelle featuring Kanye West

“Take me on a trip, I’d like to go some day Take me to New York, I’d love to see LA I really want to come kick it with you You’ll be my American boy.”

First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes

“I went out in the rain, suddenly everything changed They’re spreading blankets on the beach”

Miles Away by The Maine

“I didn’t ever want to come down From that west coast rush and summer high And easy, peaceful sense of time (I felt so alive)”

Take Me Home by Phil Collins

“Take that look of worry Mine’s an ordinary life (Ohh ohh) Working when it’s daylight And sleeping when it’s night”

Hopeless Wanderer by Mumford and Sons

“So when your hope’s on fire But you know your desire Don’t hold a glass over the flame Don’t let your heart grow cold I will call you by name I will share your road “

Carolina In My Mind by James Taylor

“Gone to Carolina in my mind In my mind I’m goin’ to Carolina”

Destination Calabria by Alex Gaudino featuring Crystal Waters

“I left my job, my boss, my car and my home I’m leaving for a destination I still don’t know”

Toes by The Zac Brown Band

“I got my toes in the water, ass in the sand Not a worry in the world, a cold beer in my hand Life is good today”

Travelling Alone by Passenger

“Australian man Scandinavian tan kicking stones round a square he sat for a while and carved out a smile as if someone would care”

You Only Live Once by The Strokes

“Twenty-nine different attributes Only seven that you like, oh Twenty ways to see the world, oh”

Two Tickets To Paradise by Eddie Money

“I’m gonna take you on a trip so far from here, I’ve got two tickets in my pocket, now baby, we’re gonna disappear. We’ve waited so long, waited so long. We’ve waited so long, waited so long. “

Walking in Memphis by Mark Cohn

“Then I’m walking in Memphis Walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale Walking in Memphis But do I really feel the way I feel”

Africa by Toto

” I hear the drums echoing tonight But she hears only whispers of some quiet conversation She’s coming in, 12: 30 flight The moonlit wings reflect the stars that guide me towards salvation”

Road to Nowhere by Talking Heads

Have you ever just jumped in the car and head out to an unknown destination?  I know we have, especially on one of our  road trips in Texas . 

“We’re on a road to nowhere Come on inside Takin’ that ride to nowhere We’ll take that ride”

California Dreaming by The Mamas and Papas

“…I’d be save and warm if I was in L.A. California dreaming on such a winters day”

Beverly Hills by Weezer

“Beverly Hills That’s where I want to be Livin’ in Beverly Hills”

Born to Be Wild by Steppenswolf

“Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Looking for adventure In whatever comes our way”

Not Today by Imagine Dragons

I love the creativity of Imagine Dragon songs, and this one is no exception.

Do You Want to See the World by the Kooks

“Do you want to see the world? In a different way, yeah”

April in Paris by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

Paris  is definitely a place of dream, and who wouldn’t love to see Paris in April? 

“April in Paris, this is a feeling No one can ever reprise”

A Million Miles Away by David Byrne

“Oh oh A million miles away from here”

Get Here by Oleta Adams

This song is all about all of the ways you can travel to get to the one you love.

“You can reach me by railway, you can reach me by trailway You can reach me on an airplane, you can reach me with your mind You can reach me by caravan, cross the desert like an Arab man I don’t care how you get here, just get here if you can”

Vacation by The GoGo’s

The chorus of this song sums up my travel addiction:

“Vacation, all I ever wanted Vacation, had to get away”

Catch & Release by Matt Simons

“There’s a place I’m going No one knows me”

Road Trippin’ by the 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…”

Take Me Home (Country Roads) by John Denver

A classic song about someone dreaming of being in a different place.

“Country roads, take me home To the place I belong”

Lovers in Japan by Coldplay

“Lovers, keep on the road you’re on Runners, until the race is run”

London Calling by The Clash

Anyone mentioning London takes me back to the  4 days in London  that Marty and I spent there.  We had such a great time and really loved the city!

“Now get this London calling, yes I was there too “

Around the World by Daft Punk

Simple lyrics, but still a fun song.  It really just says “around the world.”

Are You Gonna Go My Way by Lenny Kravitz

This song has many meanings, but I associate it with grabbing the person you love and setting off on a great journey.

We Gotta Get Out of This Place by The Animals

“We gotta get out of this place Girl, there’s a better life For me and you”

Sail Away by David Gray

This is one of the best travel songs. It just makes you feel like you want to get on a boat and never return.

“Sail away with me honey I put my heart in your hand Sail away with me honey…”

Best Travel Songs To Get You Singing Along

Wake up in paris by hot sardines.

Paris is a great city and one that Marty and I really enjoyed visiting.  Let the lyrics of this song get you to dreaming about it.

“I want to wake up in Paris As the city greets the day”

Malibu by Miley Cyrus

“We watched the Sun go down as we were walking I’d spend the rest of my life just standing here talking”

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

“But I would walk five hundred miles And I would walk five hundred more…”

Ramblin Man by The Allman Brothers Band

This song speaks to me because I have the hardest time staying in one place. LOL!

“Lord, I was born a ramblin’ man”

San Francisco by Scott McKenzie

“For those who come to San Francisco Summertime will be a love-in there”

Change by Some Poetries

I love the following verse of this song so much.  It reminds me that each day we can determine what our life will be.

“Today I woke up, knowing that thing will change, and that thing will change So I open up my eyes ready to write the story of my life.”

Take It Easy by The Eagles

“Lighten up while you still can Don’t even try to understand Just find a place to make your stand, and take it easy”

Come Away by Sons of the East

“Come away with me, baby Join me in my car We can go real far away Away from here”

Back in the U.S.S.R. by The Beatles

“I’m back in the U.S.S.R. You don’t know how lucky you are, boy Back in the U.S.”

Wanderlust by The Weeknd

This is me.  I’m in love with wanderlust!

“You’re in love with something bigger than love You believe in something stronger than trust Wanderlust Wanderlust”

Sweet Home Alabama by Leonard Skynard

“Sweet home Alabama Where the skies are so blue”

New York by Cat Power

“Start spreading the news I’m leaving today I want to be a part of it New York, New York”

Sitting on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding

“So I’m just go sit on the dock of the bay Watching the tide roll away”

Surfin’ USA by The Beach Boys

“If everybody had an ocean Across the U.S.A. Then everybody’d be surfin’ Like California”

Mexico by James Taylor

“Oh, Mexico It sounds so simple I just got to go The sun’s so hot I forgot to go home Guess I’ll have to go now”

Island in the Sun by Weezer

“When you’re on a holiday You can’t find the words to say…”

Send Me On My Way by Rusted Root

“I would like to hold my little hand How we will run, we will, how we will crawl

Send me on my way…”

Wonderful Life by Black

“Here I go out to sea again Sunshine fills my hair… You know it feels unfair There’s magic everywhere.”

When I’m Gone by Anna Kendrick

“I’ve got my ticket for the long way ‘round The one with the prettiest of views…”

See the World by Gomez

“See the world, find an old fashioned girl”

Travelin’ Prayer by Billy Joel

Travelin’ Prayer by Billy Joel is a man’s prayer to protect his loved one while she is traveling.

“Hey Lord, take a look all around And I’d a find where my baby’s gonna be Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight ‘Cause she is far across the sea”

America by Siman & Garfunkel

“They’ve all come to look for America All come to look for America”

Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen

“We’ll run until we drop, baby we’ll never go back Will you walk with me out on the wire…”

Kathmandu by Bob Seger

“I think I’m going to Katmandu That’s really, really Where I’m going to”

Wish You Were Here by Incubus

“I dig my toes into the sand The ocean looks like A thousand diamonds Strewn across a blue blanket …”

Come With Me Now by KONGOS

I know this song isn’t officially about travel, but I tell Marty often to “come with me now!” LOL!

“Far away I heard him say (Come with me now)”

End of the Line by Traveling Wilburys

“Well, it’s all right, riding around in the breeze Well, it’s all right, if you live the life you please”

Moon River by Audrey Hepburn

“Two drifters, off to see the world There’s such a lot of world to see…”

California Love by Tupac and dr. Dre

“California love! California knows how to party…”

God Bless Texas by Little Texas

“‘Cause God blessed Texas with His own hand Brought down angels from the Promised Land…”

Englishman in New York by Sting

“See me walking down fifth avenue A walking cane here at my side I take it everywhere I walk Im an Englishman In New York”

Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran

“You know, she played the fiddle in an Irish band But she fell in love with an English man…’”

On The Road Again by Willie Nelson

“On the road again Just can’t wait to get on the road again…”

Big Jet Plane by Angus and Julia Stone

“Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane Hey hey, hey hey”

Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac

I know this song is more about breaking up, but I like to think of it more like a getaway song just encouraging people to go their own way and see the world!

“If I could Baby I’d give you my world Open up Everything’s waiting for you”

I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

“I’ve been everywhere, man I’ve been everywhere, man Across the deserts bare, man I’ve breathed the mountain air, man Of travel I’ve had my share, man I’ve been everywhere”

Castle on the Hill by Ed Sheeran

“I’m on my way Driving at 90 down those country lanes Singing to “Tiny Dancer”…”

Anywhere by 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”

Miami by Will Smith

“I’m goin to Miami Welcome to Miami…”

Traveling On by KONGOS

“So long my friend, my foe, my love, my pain The road’s calling out my name…”

Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

“You got a fast car I want a ticket to anywhere Maybe we make a deal Maybe together we can get somewhere”

Budapest by George Ezra

“My house in Budapest My hidden treasure chest…”

King of the World by First Aid Kit

“I keep running around Trying to find the ground But my head is in the stars My feet are in the sky”

Hotel California by The Eagles

“Welcome to the Hotel California Such a lovely place (such a lovely place) Such a lovely face…”

Adventure of a Lifetime by Coldplay

“Then this adventure, more than I And if we’ve only got this life You’ll get me through alive And if we’ve only got this life”

Leave by R.E.M.

“It’s under, under, under my feet. The sea spread out there before me. Where do I go when the land touches sea?”

On Top of The World by Imagine Dragons

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

A Thousand Miles by 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”

Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers

Another song about California.  This one is pretty catchy.  Check it out if you’ve never heard it!

Permanent Vacation by Aerosmith

“I got to take myself a permanent vacation The sky’s the limit but my plane won’t fly…”

In America by Neil Diamond

“Free, Only want to be free…”

Roam by the B-52s

“Roam if you want to Roam around the world…”

Viva Las Vegas by Elvis Presley

“Viva Las Vegas with you neon flashin’ And your one arm bandits crashin’ All those hopes down the drain …”

I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For by U2  

“I have climbed highest mountains I have run through the fields…”

Barcelona by Ed Sheeran

“And you and I we’re flying on an aeroplane 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”

Marrakesh Express by Crosby, Still, and Nash

“Looking at the world Trough the sunset in your eyes Trying to make the train To clear Moroccan skies…”

Pompeii by Bastille

“And if you close your eyes Does it almost feel like You’ve been here before?”

Ho Hey by The Lumineers 

“Took the bus to china town (hey!) I’ve been standing on Canal (ho!) And Bowery (hey!) (ho!) And she’d be standing next to me (hey!) 1, 2, 3 I belong with you you belong with me you’re my sweet heart…”

On My Way by 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…”

Ventura Highway by America

“Ventura Highway in the sunshine Where the days are longer The nights are stronger than moonshine You’re gonna go I know …”

New York State of Mind by Billy Joel

“It comes down to reality And it’s fine with me ’cause I’ve let it slide Don’t care if it’s Chinatown or on Riverside I don’t have any reasons I’ve left them all behind I’m in a New York state of mind”  

Fly Away With Me by Tom Walker

“So come on fly away with me To a place where we could be anyone we wanna be…”

Time of Your Life by Green Day

“Another turning point a fork stuck in the road Time grabs you by the wrist directs you where to go So make the best of this test and don’t ask why It’s not a question but a lesson learned in time

It’s something unpredictable but in the end It’s right I hope you’ve had the time of your life”

Paris by The Chainsmokers  

“We were staying in Paris To get away from your parents…””

Travelling by Paper Lions

“Travelling the road, less known is where I want to be My compass directing, electing, an open road with golden trees…”

Escape (The Pina Colada Song) by Rupert Holmes

“If you like Pina Coladas and getting caught in the rain If you’re not into yoga, if you have half-a-brain If you like making love at midnight in the dunes of the cape I’m the lady you’ve looked for, write to me and escape”

Rocky Road To Dublin by The Irish Descendents

“In the merry month of june, from me home I started left the girls of Tuam, so sad and broken hearted saluted father dear, kissed me darlin’ mother…, frightened all the dogs, on the rocky road to Dublin,”

Running Away by Ed Sheeran ft. Kygo 

“You got your bags packed Hoppin’ on the train tonight Nothing to say cause you’re drifting like a satellite”

Final Thoughts  

Well, there you have it, our list of the 125 best travel songs that will inspire your wanderlust.  I hope that his list of travel songs has something that you fall in love with also.  

Of course, our list isn’t all-inclusive, so be sure and comment below what other songs we should add to our list!

Happy Travels, Friends!!

While You’re Here, Check Out These Posts:

100 Perfect Quotes About Paris

The Road to Hana: 22 Must-See Stops

85 Quotes About Italy to Inspire Your Wanderlust

25 Roman Ruins In Rome That You Have To See

3 Days in Venice: A Great Venice Itinerary

150 Dreamy Beach Quotes

101 Travel Quotes for Insta

Perfect Sunshine Captions for Instagram

The Best Wheeled Backpack for Travel

The Best Travel Backpack for Europe…and Beyond

How We Travel With Only a Backpack

The Perfect Gifts for Travel Lovers

Like This Post? Please Pin It!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight:

We love using CheapOAir, Kayak, and Kiwi to search for the best flight prices. We love using these search engines because they search the web for airlines worldwide to ensure you get the best deal! In addition to flights, you can also find great hotel prices on Kayak and Kiwi.

Book Your Vacation Package:

If you want to book an entire vacation package, we suggest using Expedia. We love how easy Expedia is to use, and we always find good deals on entire vacation packages on their site.

Another great site for vacation packages is BookVIP . BookVIP offers super cheap vacation packages to incredible destinations. You are sure to save money using their site!

For full guided vacations, including hotels, some meals, transportation, and guides, then we book with Trafalgar. Trafalgar is a trusted tour company that will meet all your needs while ensuring a great experience.

Trip.com allows you to book flights, hotels, train tickets, rental cars, airport transfers, tours, and more all on one site. Owned by the parent company that also owns Skyscanner, this is a trusted resource for travel booking and a great “one-stop shop.”

Book Your Accommodations:

We always begin our search by checking out honest reviews on TripAdvisor hotels. This allows us to narrow our search for specific properties once we are ready to book. Of course, you can also book directly on the TripAdvisor site!

There are several accommodation sites that we like to use. One of our favorites is Booking.com because it offers a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses at a good price.

Another “go-to” hotel booking site for us is Hotels.com . We love their loyalty program that allows you to earn free nights, and their “secret prices” for members are fabulous deals!

HotelsCombined is another cool site. They allow you to compare all the top travel sites with one search to ensure you find the best deal out there. Kayak works in this way as well.

If you want a luxurious all-inclusive vacation, consider checking out the Sandals/Beaches properties. Sandals properties are for couples only and Beaches are for families. We have visited Sandals in the past and absolutely love the attention to detail and the service they provide.

Tour Companies We Trust:

We love taking guided tours when visiting new places. Our go-to tour companies are Viator.com and Get Your Guide . Both of these companies have been in business for years and provide excellent customer service. You can trust booking tours from their sites for sure!

For a guided city tour, check out City Sightseeing and BigBus Tours . These bus tours are so much fun and easy to hop on and hop off at top attractions in cities around the world.

CityPass is a great way to save money when visiting large cities. CityPass allows you to get free admission to major attractions once you buy their pass. The savings add up quickly with this pass, often saving 50% with combined admissions.

Another great pass to save money in larger cities is the Sightseeing Pass . This pass allows you to save valuable time and money by combining admissions to major attractions. They also have a handy app that keeps everything you need at your fingertips.

Looking to Save Time and Money?

Check out our resource page for all of our favorite vendors. These companies help us to save time and money on our travels!

About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Monday 15th of February 2021

This is a super fun post! Thanks for the inspiration and an awesome diverse list of music!

Sunday 14th of February 2021

Ah so many great songs! You definitely had me humming along as I was reading through the list!

Saturday 13th of February 2021

Thank you got this amazing list. Such a good new fun way to travel through music .

thattexascouple

Thank you for checking it out!

Friday 22nd of January 2021

This list is already fuelling my wanderlust! I am on the same boat as you, that I love specific songs, not necessarily belonging to the same genre. By the way, while reading this, I just started playing some of these songs, my favorites from the list :-)

This is so fun to know! Thank you, Pubali. I hope you enjoyed it!

Renata - bye:myself

Tuesday 19th of January 2021

What a comprehensive and varied list - includes some of my favorite artists like Coldplay...totally unexpected. Nevertheless, you're actually starting with the cheesiest song ever - it really made me love - and then I had this tune for hours in my head.

Wednesday 20th of January 2021

Haha. I didn't think of that, Renata but I see it and agree with you :)

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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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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10 Songs About Travel

Even if the trip is only in your mind, this list of songs about travel has something for you.

By Kat Bein

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Who goes on a trip without a proper soundtrack? Whether you travel by road, air or sea, you need a playlist to get you where you’re going, and it turns out that electronic dance musicians love to create soundscapes for adventurous souls. From atmospheric and ethereal to energetic and bass-ridden, these dance music songs are both your guiding light and your worldly companion.

Even if the trip is only in your mind, this list of songs about travel has something for you.

See more:  What Song Is This? How to Identify Music Now?  |  How to Download Free Music?  |  Top 25 Songs for Studying  |  15  Songs About Cars and Driving  |  10 Songs About Work  |  10 Songs About Kissing  |  10 Songs About Colors

10 Dance Songs About Waking Up

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San Holo – “trip”

First of all, any song that opens with a cool recorded intro like this is a winner in our book. San Holo  really knows how to create a mood, and “trip” sounds kind of like he’s creating a whole universe. The synthetic bleeps and bloops rain down in vibrant glitches. It’s a textural landscape forever unfolding between your ears, and it’s the perfect song with which to kick off our travel playlist.

Skrillex – “With You, Friends (Long Drive)”

From 2010’s breakout  Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites  EP, this melodic song about travel showcases a softer side of Skrillex , a man we all know to be diverse in 2018, but who was best known for bass-fueled insanity eight years ago. Listen for his beautiful singing voice in the glitchy melody. Put this one on when you’re feeling sentimental for your best buds.

Swedish House Mafia – “Miami 2 Ibiza” Feat. Tinnie Tempah

Turn on the bright lights and get ready to put your hands up. Nobody does big-room festival dance songs as well as Swedish House Mafia , and no two cities encapsulate the glamour and energy of that movement as Miami and Ibiza. Put this song on when you want to travel to the party from anywhere in the world.

The Klaxons – “Isle of Her”

Row, there’s only seven more miles to go. Whenever you’re in need of a little motivation at the gym or on a long journey, put this mid-aught electro-era jam on and feel yourself finding the strength to hold on in those final moments. The Klaxons ‘ are a killer electro band, too. Definitely explore the album  Myths of the Near Future  in full if you never have.

Maya Jane Coles – “Take Flight”

This song about travel is no ordinary 747. It’s space-age bleeps and bloops bring you to interstellar heights previously unexperienced by human kind. It’s deep and atmospheric, the kind of magical meandering only Maya Jane Coles can offer. It’s easy to get lost in her ghostly vocals. This is the kind of sound you’ll want to curl up in and stay cozy with all night.

Petit Biscuit – “On The Road”

Keeping in the interstellar vibe, Petit Biscuit draws us “On The Road” with alluring atmosphere and inspires us to march ever onward with a sweetly-thumping beat. This song will keep your spirits high and your mood at an even keel, no matter what surprises lay on the horizon. It’s also one of the songs from his debut LP  Presence  that features his own French-accented singing.

10 Songs About Rivers

Krewella – “Marching On”

Speaking of “Marching On,” this inspiring anthem from Krewella ‘s 2016 EP  Ammunition  is the melodic pick-me-up you need to get you to the finish line. The Yousaf sisters deliver one of their most beautiful performances as they sing about smashing fear in the face. The travel here is perhaps metaphorical, but it also helps to hear them cry “left, right, left” if you’re making serious moves.

GRiZ – “Dtw to Dia (The Travels of Mr. B)”

“DTW to DIA” is airport code for Detroit to Denver, and that is one helluva funky flight path. Detroit is the home of Motown soul, and Denver is the epicenter of Colorado’s genre-blending, electronic-meets-organic musical vibe. GRiZ ‘s song marries the spirit of both in one deliciously danceable groove. Just try not to jump up and jive to this.

Maceo Plex – “Kepler’s Journey”

Care for some IDM on your journey? Maceo Plex is a bold deep house and techno producer, but this tune from 2017’s experimental concept LP  Solar  dives deep into the outer-reaches of sound and space. The track is named after German mathematician, astronomer and astrologer Johannes Kepler best known for his laws of planetary motion. See if this tune doesn’t take you places.

Gryffin – “Heading Home” feat. Josef Salvat

Every good trip inevitably comes to an end, but that can sometimes be the best part of the journey. After all, is there any better feeling than crashing on your own bed after a long journey, your head swimming with memories of the adventure you just shared alongside friends old and new? Gryffin and his buddy Josef Salvat  perfectly capture that feeling in this final song about travel on our list. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.

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75 Travel Songs to add to your Playlist in 2024 – Mixtape #2

We curated the second mixtape of the best travel songs.

This list features classic songs about traveling to brand new tracks.

You can find more travel songs here:

• Summer Mixtape #1 for the perfect travelers playlist
• 17 best Backpacker Songs you’ve to know
• 10 songs for exploring the world

This list features a lot of cool songs you’ve to put on your phone. However, and always remember this, go out there and create your own travel songs.

What do we mean by that?

During your travels you will end up in a lot of fun situations.

You will collect memories, and a few songs will take part in it. Then, when you are back home or wherever, you will hear this special song in the radio – and it takes you right back to those fun situations you will cherish forever.

For us, this is for instance “We don’t talk anymore” – we traveled Vietnam for 3 months and some local in every single village, town and city played it at least once. We turned crazy, yet it’s today a part of the experience. Then in Labuan Bajo, while taking the boat cruise around the Komodo National Park, the boat crew only had only one song to play, HIOKO TOBELO 2 – Yopie Latul .

Read : +180 short travel stories

75 Travel Songs to Wanderlust

Okay, enough of the mambo jambo. Turn on your audio and hit the play button. This list of the best 75 travel songs is waiting for you.

I included my personal favorite travel song as #75.

Update : We had to break the songs in several pages, otherwise the page takes too long to load.

Please be patient and wait for the YouTube video to load.

1. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man

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

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

Oh, my sweet Fraulein 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 sands of the Waikiki And I held you, oh so tight

2. The Melodic – “On My Way”

I found an open door (I’m on my way) I think of love once more (I’m on my way)

Precious time on your own Seeing more than you care to say And the mist falls away (I’m on my way)

At times I’ve tried to feel (I’m on my way) With the thoughts I tried to steal (I’m on my way)

Left forgotten like young love All the choices I am made of When the push comes to shove

3. Passenger – Traveling Alone

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.

See, ten years with this man, And a life time of plans, Oh, and I loved him to his bones. Now I’ve lines on my skin And he’s traded me in. He left me travelling alone.

Well, I never felt silence hit me like a train. I never felt silence like blood coursed through my veins. Well, I’m loving a shadow, and I’m trying to catch the rain. I never heard silence ’til I heard it today. I never felt silence ’til I felt it today.

4. Band of Horses – The Funeral

I’m coming up only to hold you under I’m coming up only to show you wrong And to know you is hard, we wonder To know you, all wrong we were

Ooh-ooh Ooh-ooh

Really too late to call, so We wait for Morning to wake you, that’s all we got To know me as hardly golden Is to know me all wrong, they were

At every occasion, I’ll be ready for the funeral Every occasion, once more, it’s called the funeral Every occasion, know I’m ready for the funeral Every occasion, oh, one billion-day funeral

5. X Ambassadors – Renegades

Run away with me Lost souls and reverie Running wild and running free Two kids, you and me

6. Noah And The Whale – Blue Skies

This is a song for anyone with a broken heart This is a song for anyone who can’t get out of bed

I’ll do anything to be happy

Oh, ’cause blue skies are coming

But I know that it’s hard

This is the last song that I write while still in love with you This is the last song that I write while you’re even on my mind

’cause it’s time to leave those feelings behind Oh, ’cause blue skies are coming But I know that it’s hard

7. Coldplay – Adventure Of A Lifetime

Turn your magic on, to me she’d say Everything you want’s a dream away We are legends, every day That’s what she told him

I feel my heart beating I feel my heart beneath my skin I feel my heart beating Oh, you make me feel

Like I’m alive again Alive again Oh, you make me feel Like I’m alive again

8. Red Hot Chili Peppers – Californication

Psychic spies from China try to steal your mind’s elation And little girls from Sweden dream of silver screen quotation And if you want these kind of dreams it’s Californication It’s the edge of the world and all of western civilization

The sun may rise in the East at least it’s settled in a final location It’s understood that Hollywood sells Californication Pay your surgeon very well to break the spell of aging Celebrity skin is this your chin or is that war you’re waging?

9. Of Monsters and Men – Dirty Paws

Jumping up and down the floor My head is an animal And once there was an animal It had a son that mowed the lawn The son was an OK guy They had a pet dragonfly The dragonfly it ran away But it came back with a story to say

Her dirty paws and furry coat She ran down the forest slope The forest of talking trees They used to sing about the birds and the bees The bees had declared a war The sky wasn’t big enough for them all The birds, they got help from below From dirty paws and the creatures of snow

10. Foo Fighters – These Days

One of these days, the ground will drop out from beneath your feet One of these days, your heart will stop and play it’s final beat

One of these days, the clocks will stop and time won’t mean a thing One of these days, their bombs will drop and silence everything

But it’s alright, yeah it’s alright, said it’s alright Easy for you to say Your heart has never been broken Your pride has never been stolen Not yet, not yet, one of these days I bet your heart ‘ll be broken I bet your pride ‘ll be stolen I’ll bet, I’ll bet, I’ll bet, I’ll bet One of these days, one of these days

11. David Bowie – Heroes

I, I wish you could swim Like the dolphins Like dolphins can swim Though nothing, nothing will keep us together

We can beat them, forever and ever

Oh, we can be heroes just for one day

I, I will be King And you, you will be Queen Though nothing will drive them away We can be heroes just for one day We can be us just for one day

12. Ben Howard – Old Pine

Hot sand on toes, cold sand in sleeping bags I’ve come to know that memories Were the best things you ever had The summer shone beat down on bony backs

So far from home where the ocean stood Down dust and pine cone tracks We slept like dogs down by the fire side Awoke to the fog all around us

The boom of summer time We stood Steady as the stars in the woods So happy-hearted

And the warmth rang true inside these bones As the old pine fell we sang Just to bless the morning

13. The Byrds – I Wasn’t Born To Follow

Recommended by the Hostelgeeks community member Alexandra.

No I’d rather go and journey Where the diamond crescent’s glowing And run across the valley Beneath the sacred mountain And wander through the forest

Where the trees have leaves of prisms And break the light in colors That no one know the names of

And when it’s time I’ll go and lay Beside the legendary fountain ‘Till I see her form reflected

In its clear and jewelled waters And if you think I’m ready You may lead me to the chasm Where the rivers of our visions Flow into one another

14. Imagine Dragons – Not Today

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

15. Mumford & Sons – Hopeless Wanderer

You heard my voice, I came out of the woods by choice Shelter also gave their shade But in the dark I have no name So leave that click in my head And I will remember the words that you said Left a clouded mind and a heavy heart But I am sure we could see a new start So when your hopes on fire But you know your desire Don’t hold a glass over the flame Don’t let your heart grow cold I will call you by name I will share your road

But hold me fast, hold me fast ‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer And hold me fast, hold me fast ‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer

16. Paper Lions – Travelling

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 Travelling 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.” Let bygones be gone, it’s all in the past, we raise a glass Please don’t be a stranger in my place

What if I could be what you wanted me to be What if I could see what you wanted me to see Come on and show me Please don’t be a stranger in my place

17. Ramon Mirabet – Home Is Where The Heart is

Shining sun means new start.

it’s time for me to face my fate

and follow my heart.

I’m coming home,

I’m coming home.

home is where the heart is.

it’s never late to find the answer up in the stars.

18. Dream Land (Road Trip)

19. Our adventure – The Long Valley

20. The Weeknd – Wanderlust

Is it so hard to say the same thing? And you’re so weak to say the same thing And burn a hole into your apprehensiveness And let the wildfire shine And repeat after me

Good girls go to heaven, And bad girls go everywhere And tonight I will love you And tomorrow you won’t care

You’re in love with something bigger than love You believe in something stronger than trust

Wanderlust Wanderlust

21. Creed – With Arms Wide Open

Well I just heard the news today It seems my life is going to change I close my eyes, begin to pray Then tears of joy stream down my face

With arms wide open Under the sunlight Welcome to this place I’ll show you everything With arms wide open With arms wide open

22. The Lumineers – Ho Hey

I been trying to do it right (Hey) I been living a lonely life (Ho) I been sleepin’ here instead (Hey) I been sleepin’ in my bed (Ho) I been sleepin’ in my bed (hey ho)

so show me family (Hey) all the blood that I will bleed (Ho) I don’t know where I belong (Hey) I don’t know where I went wrong (Ho) but I can write a song (hey)

23. Bastille – Pompeii

I was left to my own devices Many days fell away with nothing to show

And the walls kept tumbling down In the city that we love Grey clouds roll over the hills Bringing darkness from above

But if you close your eyes Does it almost feel like Nothing changed at all? And if you close your eyes Does it almost feel like You’ve been here before?

24. Green day – Time of your life

Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go

So make the best of this test, and don’t ask why It’s not a question, but a lesson learned in time It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right I hope you had the time of your life

So take the photographs, and still-frames in your mind Hang them on a shelf in good health and good time Tattoo’s of memories and dead skin on trial For what it’s worth, it was worth all the while

It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right I hope you had the time of your life

25. The Script – Hall of Fame

Yeah, you could be the greatest You can be the best

You can be the King Kong banging on your chest You could beat the world You could beat the war

You could talk to God, go banging on his door You can throw your hands up You can beat the clock You can move a mountain You can break rocks You can be a master Don’t wait for luck Dedicate yourself and you can find yourself

26. Red Hot Chili Peppers – Road Trippin’

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 U.S.A.

Let’s go get lost, let’s go get lost

Blue you sit so pretty West of the one Sparkles light with yellow icing, just a mirror for the sun Just a mirror for the sun Just a mirror for the sun

These smiling eyes are just a mirror for So much as come before those battles lost and won This life is shining more forever in the sun Now let us check our heads and let us check the surf Staying high and dry’s More trouble than it’s worth in the sun

27. Moby – Porcelain

In my dreams I’m dying all the time Then I wake it’s kaleidoscopic mind I never meant to hurt you I never meant to lie

So this is goodbye? This is goodbye

Tell the truth, you’ve never wanted me Tell me

28. Imagine Dragons – On Top of the World

If you love somebody Better tell them why they’re here ’cause They just may run away from you

You’ll never know what went well Then again it just depends on How long of time is left for you

I’ve had the highest mountains I’ve had the deepest rivers You can have it all but not til you move it

29. Part-Time Friends – Here We Are

Silence Ici nos âmes tutoient le ciel Et nos hymnes éternels

Here we are L’aube de nos dernières transes Laisse un vide immense

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

30. Crystal Fighters – Love Natural

Everyone, anyone who want to hear Move in a little closer, let me tell you about A love natural, oh that love actual Love that you just can’t help feeling

When feelings with meanings keep on appearing And it’s almost midnight, the time is coming up The time is getting closer, the time is almost here Life is upon us and the time for love is here and now

When I look at you, oh I feel my heart Oh, I feel your love deep inside

Oh, love natural, I can’t believe how you do it to me You make me feel, oh how you say, feel so special Oh, love natural, I can’t believe how you do it to me You make me feel, oh how you say, feel so special

31. Luis Fonsi – Despacito ft. Daddy Yankee

Sí, sabes que ya llevo un rato mirándote Tengo que bailar contigo hoy (DY) Vi que tu mirada ya estaba llamándome Muéstrame el camino que yo voy (Oh)

Tú, tú eres el imán y yo soy el metal Me voy acercando y voy armando el plan Solo con pensarlo se acelera el pulso (Oh yeah)

32. U2 – Song For Someone

You got a face not spoiled by beauty I have some scars from where I’ve been You’ve got eyes that can see right through me You’re not afraid of anything they’ve seen I was told that I would feel nothing the first time I don’t know how these cuts heal But in you I found a rhyme

33. José González – Stay Alive

There’s a rhythm in rush these days Where the lights don’t move and the colors don’t fade Leaves you empty with nothing but dreams

In a world gone shallow In a world gone lean

Sometimes there’s things a man cannot know Gears won’t turn and the leaves won’t grow There’s no place to run and no gasoline

Engine won’t turn And the train won’t leave

Engines won’t turn and the train won’t leave I will stay with you tonight

Hold you close ‘til the morning light In the morning watch a new day rise We’ll do whatever just to stay alive We’ll do whatever just to stay alive

34. Don’t fight it, Feel it – AronChupa

Oh baby when the band is playing

Oh and that solid beat

Oh make you wanna move,

make you wanna groove

Make you wanna pat your feet

When we dance close together

With your cheek close to mine

And you begin to feel a funny little thrill

Moving up your spine

35. The Chainsmokers – Paris

We were staying in Paris To get away from your parents And I thought, “Wow If I could take this in a shot right now I don’t think that we could work this out” Out on the terrace I don’t know if it’s fair but I thought “How Could I let you fall by yourself While I’m wasted with someone else”

If we go down then we go down together They’ll say you could do anything They’ll say that I was clever If we go down then we go down together We’ll get away with everything Let’s show them we are better

36. Alvaro Soler – Sofia

Sueño cuando era pequeño Sin preocupación en el corazón

Sigo viendo aquel momento Se desvaneció, desapareció

Ya no te creo, ya no te deseo, eh oh Solo te dejo, solo te deseo, eh oh

37. A R I Z O N A – Oceans Away

I never let My guard go down But you messed me up When you came around When the high wore off

Know you needed space But I don’t wanna wait I don’t wanna mistake Few thousand miles and an ocean away But I see the sunrise, oh, just like the other day Picture your eyes as I fall asleep Tell myself it’s alright, oh oh, as the tears roll by

38. Angus and Julia Stone – Big Jet Plane

She said “hello mister, pleased to meet ya” I wanna hold her, I wanna kiss her She smelled of daisies, she smelled of daisies She drive me crazy, she drive me crazy

Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane Hey hey Hey hey

39. OK Go – Here It Goes Again

It could be ten, but then again I can’t remember half an hour since a quarter to four Throw on your clothes, the second side of Surfer Rosa And you leave me with my jaw on the floor

Just when you think (think) you’re in control Just when you think (think) you’ve got a hold Just when you get on a roll Here it goes, here it goes, here it goes again Oh, here it goes again I should have known, should have known, should have known again But here it goes again Oh, here it goes again

40. 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

Well it’s all right, even if they say you’re wrong Well it’s all right, sometimes you gotta be strong Well it’s all right, as long as you got somewhere to lay Well it’s all right, everyday is judgment day

41. 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

I remember the time you drove all night Just to meet me in the morning And I thought it was strange, you said everything changed You felt as if you just woke up

42. Sons Of The East – Come Away

She sits and she waits by the tree And she thinks no one comes to me Heard it before She stand there all alone Staring blank at her telephone But she’s sure, so sure

Come away with me, baby Join me in my car We can go real far away Away from here

She wants to know his name Wants his wealth, but not his fame Watch your pride

43. Depeche Mode – Enjoy the Silence

Words like violence Break the silence Come crashing in Into my little world

Painful to me Pierce right through me Can’t you understand? Oh my little girl

All I ever wanted All I ever needed

Is here in my arms Words are very unnecessary They can only do harm Vows are spoken

To be broken Feelings are intense Words are trivial Pleasures remain

So does the pain Words are meaningless And forgettable All I ever wanted All I ever needed

Is here in my arms Words are very unnecessary They can only do harm

44. Gladys Knight & The Pips – Midnight Train to Georgia

L.a. Proved too much for the man (Too much for the man, he couldn’t make it) So he’s leavin’ the life he’s come to know, ooh (He said he’s goin’) He said he’s goin’ back to find (Goin’ back to find) Ooh ooh ooh, what’s left of his world The world he left behind Not so long ago

He’s leavin’ (leavin’) On that midnight train to Georgia (Leavin’ on the midnight train) Yeah, said he’s goin’ back (Goin’ back to find) To a simpler place in time (Whenever he takes that ride) oh yes he is (Guess who’s gonna be right by his side)

45. The Sounds – Painted By Numbers

Could I act like you, and put a smile on face? Not even for a second would I lie to myself.. Too many things are missing And there’s a tear in my eye It’s not a question or an answer

But it will change you mind We’ll be the same tomorrow ‘Cause we’ve all been painted my numbers We dance and eyes will follow You said it was love I said I’d like you to be mine

46. Kings Of Convenience – I’d Rather Dance With You

I’d rather dance with you than talk with you So why don’t we just move into the other room There’s space for us to shake and hey, I like this tune

Even if I could hear what you said I doubt my reply would be interesting for you to hear Because I haven’t read a single book all year And the only film I saw, I didn’t like it at all

I’d rather dance, I’d rather dance than talk with you I’d rather dance, I’d rather dance than talk with you I’d rather dance, I’d rather dance than talk with you

47. Alphaville – Forever Young

Let’s dance in style, let’s dance for a while Heaven can wait we’re only watching the skies Hoping for the best, but expecting the worst Are you gonna drop the bomb or not?

Let us die young or let us live forever We don’t have the power, but we never say never Sitting in a sandpit, life is a short trip The music’s for the sad man

Can you imagine when this race is won? Turn our golden the faces into the sun Praising our leaders, we’re getting in tune The music’s played by the, the madman

48. Sting – Englishman In New York

I don’t take coffee, I take tea, my dear I like my toast done on one side And you can hear it in my accent when I talk I’m an Englishman in New York

See me walking down Fifth Avenue A walking cane here at my side I take it everywhere I walk

I’m an Englishman in New York Oh, I’m an alien, I’m a legal alien I’m an Englishman in New York Oh, I’m an alien, I’m a legal alien I’m an Englishman in New York

49. Incubus – Wish You Were Here

I dig my toes into the sand The Ocean looks like a thousand diamonds Strewn across a blue blanket I lean against the wind Pretend that I am weightless And in this moment I am happy happy)

50. Kodaline – All My Friends

So it starts We go back to your house We check the charts And start to figure it out

And if it’s crowded, all the better Cause we know we’re gonna be up late And if you’re worried about the weather Then you picked the wrong place to stay That’s how it starts

51. R.E.M. – Leave

Nothing could be bring me closer Nothing could be bring me near Where is the road I follow? Believing, leave

It’s under, under, under my feet The scene spread out there before me Better I go where the land touches the sea There is my trust in what I believe

52. Mr. Brightside – The Killers

Coming out of my cage And I’ve been doing just fine Gotta gotta be down Because I want it all It started out with a kiss How did it end up like this? It was only a kiss, it was only a kiss Now I’m falling asleep And she’s calling a cab While he’s having a smoke And she’s taking a drag Now they’re going to bed And my stomach is sick And it’s all in my head But she’s touching his chest now He takes off her dress now Let me go And I just can’t look, it’s killing me And taking control

53. David Bowie- Space Oddity

Ground Control to Major Tom Ground Control to Major Tom Take your protein pills and put your helmet on

Ground Control to Major Tom Commencing countdown, engines on Check ignition and may God’s love be with you

54. Queen – Don’t Stop Me Now

Tonight, I’m gonna have myself a real good time I feel alive and the world I’ll turn it inside out, yeah And floating around in ecstasy So don’t stop me now don’t stop me

‘Cause I’m having a good time, having a good time I’m a shooting star, leaping through the sky Like a tiger defying the laws of gravity I’m a racing car, passing by like Lady Godiva

I’m gonna go, go, go There’s no stopping me I’m burnin’ through the sky, yeah Two hundred degrees That’s why they call me Mister Fahrenheit I’m traveling at the speed of light I wanna make a supersonic man out of you

55. Mando Diao – Dance With Somebody

Break your happy home learn to sing alone to the music, to the music Clap your hands and shake on a summer’s day to the music, to the music

I’m falling in love with your favorite song I’m gonna sing it all night long I’m gonna dance with somebody dance with somebody dance dance dance

56. David Gray – “Sail Away”

Sail away with me honey I put my heart in your hands Sail away with me honey now, now, now Sail away with me What will be will be I want to hold you now, now, now

Crazy skies all wild above me now Winter howling at my face And everything I held so dear Disappeared without a trace Oh all the times I’ve tasted love Never knew quite what I had Little darling if you hear me now Never needed you so bad Spinning ’round inside my head

57. Foster The People – Pumped up Kicks

Robert’s got a quick hand He’ll look around the room, he won’t tell you his plan He’s got a rolled cigarette, hanging out his mouth he’s a cowboy kid Yeah found a six shooter gun In his dad’s closet hidden oh in a box of fun things, I don’t even know what But he’s coming for you, yeah he’s coming for you

All the other kids with the pumped up kicks You’d better run, better run, out run my gun All the other kids with the pumped up kicks You’d better run, better run, faster than my bullet All the other kids with the pumped up kicks You’d better run, better run, out run my gun All the other kids with the pumped up kicks You’d better run, better run, faster than my bullet

58. Gorillaz – Clint Eastwood

I ain’t happy, I’m feeling glad I got sunshine in a bag I’m useless but not for long The future is coming on I ain’t happy, I’m feeling glad I got sunshine in a bag I’m useless but not for long The future is coming on It’s coming on It’s coming on It’s coming on

59. Weezer – Island In The Sun

When you’re on a holiday You can’t find the words to say All the things that come to you And I wanna feel it too

On an island in the sun We’ll be playing and having fun And it makes me feel so fine I can’t control my brain

60. Modest Mouse Float

I backed my car into a cop car the other day Well, he just drove off – sometimes life’s okay I ran my mouth off a bit too much, ah what did I say? Well, you just laughed it off and it was all okay

And we’ll all float on okay And we’ll all float on okay And we’ll all float on okay And we’ll all float on anyway, well

A fake Jamaican took every last dime with that scam It was worth it just to learn some sleight of hand Bad news comes, don’t you worry even when it lands Good news will work it way to all them plans We both got fired on, exactly, the same day Well, we’ll float on, good news is on the way

61. MGMT- Kids

You were a child Crawling on your knees toward him Making momma so proud But your voice is too loud

We like to watch you laughing Picking insects off of plants No time to think of consequences Control yourself Take only what you need from it A family of trees wanting to be haunted

62. Franz Ferdinand – Take Me Out

So if you’re lonely You know I’m here waiting for you I’m just a cross hair I’m just a shot away from you And if you leave here You leave me broken, shattered, I lie I’m just a cross hair I’m just a shot, then we can die

63. Black – Wonderful Life

Here I go out to sea again The sunshine fills my hair And dreams hang in the air

Gulls in the sky and in my blue eyes You know it feels unfair There’s magic everywhere

Look at me standing Here on my own again Up straight in the sunshine

64. Beirut – Elephant Gun

If I was young, I’d flee this town I’d bury my dreams underground As did I, we drink to die, we drink tonight

Far from home, elephant guns Let’s take them down one by one We’ll lay it down, it’s not been found, it’s not around

Let the seasons begin – it rolls right on Let the seasons begin – take the big king down

65. Eagles – Hotel California

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.

There she stood in the doorway; I heard the mission bell And I was thinking to myself ‘This could be heaven or this could be Hell’ Then she lit up a candle and she showed me the way There were voices down the corridor, I thought I heard them say

66. The Cranberries – Zombie

Another head hangs lowly Child is slowly taken And the violence, caused such silence Who are we mistaken?

But you see, it’s not me It’s not my family In your head, in your head, they are fighting With their tanks, and their bombs And their bombs, and their guns In your head, in your head they are crying

67. The Strokes – You Only Live Once

Some people think they’re always right Others are quiet and uptight Others they seem so very nice nice nice nice (oh-ho) Inside they might feel sad and wrong (oh no)

Twenty-nine different attributes Only seven that you like Twenty ways to see the world (oh-ho) Twenty ways to start a fight (oh-ho)

68. The Black Keys – Lonely Boy

Well I’m so above you And it’s plain to see But I came to love you anyway So you pulled my heart out And I don’t mind bleeding Any old time you keep me waiting Waiting, waiting

Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting I’m a lonely boy I’m a lonely boy Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting

69. Come With Me Now – Kongos

Come with me now Come with me now

Woah come with me now I’m gonna take you down

Woah come with me now I’m gonna show you how Woah come with me now I’m gonna take you down

Woah come with me now I’m gonna show you how

Afraid to lose control And caught up in this world I’ve wasted time, I’ve wasted breath I think I’ve thought myself to death

70. Passenger | The Wrong Direction

When I was a kid the things I did were hidden under the grid Young and naive I never believed that love could be so well hid With regret I’m willing to bet and say the older you get It gets harder to forgive and harder to forget It gets under your shirt like a dagger at work The first cut is the deepest but the rest still flipping hurt You build your heart of plastic Get cynical and sarcastic And end up in the corner on your own

‘Cause I’d love to feel love but I can’t stand the rejection I hide behind my jokes as a form of protection I thought I was close but under further inspection It seems I’ve been running in the wrong direction oh no

71. Billy Joel – Travelin’ Prayer

Hey Lord, take a look all around And I’d a find where my baby’s gonna be Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight ‘Cause she is far across the sea Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight And make sure that she’s gonna be alright And things are gonna be alright with me

Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight And make sure that all her dreams are sweet Said now, would ya guide her on the roads And make them softer for her feet Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight And make sure that she’s gonna be alright Until she’s home and here with me

72. Creedence Clearwater Revival – Travellin’ Band

Seven thirty seven comin’ out of the sky Won’t you take me down to Memphis on a midnight ride I want to move Playin’ in a travelin’ band Yeah Well I’m flyin’ ‘cross the land tryin’ to get a hand Playin’ in a travelin’ band

Take me to the hotel baggage gone, oh well Come on, come on won’t you get me to my room I want to move Playin’ in a travelin’ band Yeah Well I’m flyin’ ‘cross the land, tryin’ to get a hand Playin’ in a travelin’ band

73. Have Love, Will Travel – The Sonics

Wow,Have love Whoa baby will travel Uh huh, uh huh,have love Woah baby will travel I said if you need loving then Mm,hmm,I’ll travel

Yeah,I’ll travel from Main to Mexico Just to find a little girl that loves me so No matter when, no matter where I’ll be I’m looking for a woman that’ll satisfy me

74. Queens Of The Stone Age – Go With The Flow

She said “I’ll throw myself away, They’re just photos after all” I can’t make you hang around. I can’t wash you off my skin. Outside the frame, is what we’re leaving out You won’t remember anyway I can go with the flow But don’t say it doesn’t matter anymore I can go with the flow Do you believe it in your head? It’s so safe to play along Little soldiers in a row Falling in and out of love With something sweet to throw away. But I want something good to die for To make it beautiful to live. I want a new mistake, lose is more than hesitate. Do you believe it in your head? I can go with the flow But don’t say it doesn’t matter anymore I can go with the flow Do you believe it in your head?

75. Maïa Vidal – Our Place

Last but not least, the ultimate travel song to wanderlust. I’d like to stay here For a while And go wild You’ll call me crazy But I don’t care ‘Cause I know where

Where I go where I go, you’re gonna take me Where I go where I go, you’re gonna take me Take me for a ride, And I’ll be by your side

Just let me stay here A little while We’ll go wild They’ll call us crazy But I don’t care ‘Cause I’ll be where you are

This all happened fast But I know how I feel Like you were the sand And I was the se

Extra 76. Sky on the Loose – Inkfield

Do you want an insider tip for cool travel songs? Then listen into Inkfield’s Sky on the Loose. Inkfield is a solo solo indie rock act from Edinburgh, UK.

Here are the lyrics.

Messaging like nights before, crashing through the wall I’m using all my strength and breath, I’m gonna show them all

You talk of my impending doom, no promise nor a myth You justify avoiding me to sell out on a whiff

Oh if I, I want to be the lonely one, I want to be the only one And if I, lord I And if I, I want to be the chosen one, I want to be the chosen one And if I, lord I

Don’t you tire of telling me? ‘The world ends at the sky, You’re just a little fish another simple passer by, All your songs and poetry are droplets in the sea’ I said ‘That is ok for you, your words won’t follow me!’

Sum it up: The 75 Travel Songs

By now your notebook should be full and you should have taken lots of notes.

This is your ultimate list of best travel songs. We tried to make a compulsive list of all the important things you have to put on your iPod, your Smartphone and Spotify list.

More travel songs here:

Again, this is your inspiration. Take it with you, let is inspire you, but make sure you add your own travel songs to your very own memory list.

The world is wide and there is a lot of adventures out there, waiting for you to live them.

We are Hostelgeeks, and we are here to help you to travel smarter, longer, and especially safe. We collect for you the best hostels in the world, the 5 Star Hostels.

Do you have your own favorite travel song?

We would love to grow this list, add more travel tracks to it. Leave us a comment with your favorite ones, we are curious what songs you love when you are on the road.

Love, cheers and safe travels,

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Adventure is Out There – AJR Ends of the Earth – Lord Huron Send Me On My Way – Rusted Root I’m Gonna Be – The Proclaimers Roads – Glenn Yarbrough Cups – Anna Kendrick Back Home – Andy Grammer Internacionales – Bomba Estéreo Drive All Night – Needtobreathe

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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!

• 44 of the Best Road Trip Songs to Rock the Long Drive
• 44 Best Gifts for Travelers
• 20 Best Movies to Inspire Wanderlust
• 101 Best Travel Quotes
• Best Travel Books to Inspire the Wanderer in You
• 27 Best Travel Tips from 20 Years of Traveling
• How to Travel the World – The Ultimate Travel Resource

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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!

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The 125+ Popular Songs About Traveling

Successful musicians spend a lot of time on the road, so it's only natural that they write songs about their constant moving and experiences away from home. This is a ranked list of all songs about traveling, as voted on by music fans like you. Some of the songs included below may have the words "travel" in the lyrics or title, while others are only about traveling the world as a subject or theme. A few of these tracks are about modes of transportation, while others are simply about traveling, whether it's a cruise on the ocean or a hike across the country.

Willie Nelson On the Road Again

Leaving on a Jet Plane

On the Road Again

Born to Run

Take Me Home Country Roads

The Long and Winding Road

We gotta get out of this place - animals.

Take It Easy

Hit the Road Jack

Homeward Bound

Magic Carpet Ride

Goodby yellow brick road.

Turn the Page

Immigrant Song

Last Train to Clarksville

King of the road roger miller.

Midnight Train to Georgia

Johnny Cash Highwayman

On the road again - canned heat.

Going Up the Country

Smoke on the Water

Fly Me to the Moon

Highway to Hell

Ventura Highway

No Particular Place To Go

Night Moves

Listen to the Music

Come Fly With Me

• Song Lyrics
• Places/Travel

Songs for people who listen to the lyrics.

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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!

• Gravel Travel
• 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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Tunes For Your Trip: Our Favorite Songs About Traveling

Do you have a playlist for that next trip? We have curated timeless songs about travelling to keep your mind going on that journey.

Emmanuel Desouza • May 31, 2024

As you’re sightseeing through the woods on that road trip, or gazing out the window seat, head in the clouds, or just dreaming of your next adventure, music can elevate a travel experience into a whole new vibe entirely. If you’re ready for some added bliss for your next travel adventure, we’ve curated timeless songs to indulge your moods as you journey. Whether they speak of traveling or are the perfect soundtrack to a new adventure, these songs make up the ultimate travel playlist.

“Africa” by Toto

Toto’s “Africa” is a timeless classic that transports you to the heart of the continent with its evocative lyrics and catchy melody. The song’s themes of adventure and discovery make it an ideal companion for any journey, whether you’re exploring a new city or driving through scenic landscapes.

“Havana” by Camila Cabello

Camila Cabello’s “Havana” is a vibrant and infectious song that brings the lively atmosphere of Cuba right to your speakers. Its Latin beats and catchy chorus make it perfect for a road trip or vacation, setting a fun and festive mood as you explore new destinations.

“Route 66” by Nat King Cole

Nat King Cole’s “Route 66” is an ode to the famous American highway that has become synonymous with road trips and travel adventures. This classic tune celebrates the joy of the open road and the unique charm of the towns and cities along the way. It’s a must-have for any road trip playlist.

“Montego Bay” by Amazulu

“Montego Bay” by Amazulu captures the laid-back, tropical vibes of a Caribbean getaway. The upbeat tempo and joyful lyrics make it perfect for those moments when you’re lounging by the beach or cruising through sunny coastal areas. This song will instantly transport you to a paradise state of mind.

“Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight and the Pips

“Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight and the Pips is a soulful ballad about returning home. Its heartfelt lyrics and smooth melody make it perfect for those reflective moments on your journey when you’re thinking about where you’ve been and where you’re going.

“Drive” by Black Coffee & David Guetta

“Drive” by Black Coffee & David Guetta is a smooth and captivating song that’s perfect for nighttime drives or when you’re cruising down the highway. Its relaxing beat and soothing vocals make it ideal for those moments when you just want to enjoy the ride and take in the scenery.

“Feeling Good” by Nina Simone

Nina Simone’s “Feeling Good” is a timeless anthem of renewal and freedom. Its powerful vocals and triumphant melody make it perfect for the start of a new adventure or when you need a boost of positivity. This song will make you feel like anything is possible.

Whether in your headphones or on the speakers, enjoy the musical soundtrack to your safe travels!

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Taylor Swift catches a lot of heat over jet travel. Here's her actual impact

H ow did Taylor Swift become a lightning rod in the debate over carbon dioxide emissions, and just how much does her private jet contribute to global warming?

The Eras Tour superstar is known for boosting economies, being taught at universities like Harvard , rerecording her music and breaking records with new album releases including "The Tortured Poets Department." She has also gained attention for flying her private jet (she sold her second one) around the world for concert stops, to do business and meet with friends in New York, rehearse in Los Angeles, see her family in Nashville and visit her boyfriend Travis Kelce in Kansas City, Missouri.

Conversation began in 2022

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In the summer of 2022, Kylie Jenner posted a photo (that's since been deleted) of her and Travis Scott's private planes with the caption, “You wanna take mine or yours?” The backlash led the Yard , a content and public relations firm, to publish a study of which celebrities produced the most private jet emissions that year. The publication put Miss Americana as the top of the list.

The Yard has added a disclaimer to the top of the study that reads in part: "Following the release of our data, Rolling Stone contacted each of the celebrities' representatives for comment. Taylor Swift's representative said the following: 'Taylor’s jet is loaned out regularly to other individuals. To attribute most or all of these trips to her is blatantly incorrect.'"

The jet tracking student

Amid the hype in 2022, a student studying information technology at University of Central Florida (UCF) started to track Swift's two jets. Jack Sweeney set up an automated system that posted updates when the billionaire's private planes departed and landed. His account took off during Swift's trips to NFL games as fans checked to see if she would attend to root on the Kansas City Chiefs .

The increased attention outraged Swifties who said Sweeney invaded the tortured poet's privacy and posed a security threat .

"It's all public record, you have this information at your fingertips," he says over Zoom. "There's an interest by fans, but others are upset. They think I'm stalking (Swift) when I'm just sharing public information."

His fascination with tracking planes began during the coronavirus pandemic in 2021. Sweeney looked into Elon Musk's planes and posted information about his jets. At one point, he says, Musk offered him $5,000 to shut down the X/Twitter account. The UCF student talked to a journalist instead, and the deal was off the table.

Musk, the owner of X/Twitter, banned Sweeney's accounts. With his Instagram account garnering close to 100,000 followers last winter, Meta also pulled the plug.

Swift's team sent Sweeney two cease-and-desist letters saying the tracking was endangering the singer and a "life-or-death matter." The student hired a lawyer and after releasing a public letter and doing some interviews , the back-and-forth grew cold.

When asked about security, the Sweeney says, "Other people have done a similar type of thing where they're posting about her planes. When she flew to Brazil, the news was livestreaming at the airport. If my tracking goes away, there's still going to be stuff like that, and she travels with a security team. The airport is one of the most secure places."

Swift sold one of her two private jets at the beginning of the year. An animation shows the 2023 trips of Swift's two jets that added up to 178,000 miles, emitting 1,200 tons of carbon dioxide. The majority of those flights were to Los Angles, New York, Nashville and concert stops for the 2023 Eras Tour .

If you search for lists of top carbon-emitting celebrities, there are conflicting reports. MyClimate ranked a list of celebrities in 2023 by their carbon emissions and didn't put the Eras Tour singer in the top 20 , giving Travis Scott, Kim Kardashian and Elon Musk the highest ratings.

Swift's impact on the environment

Payless Power did a conservative prediction of Swift's jet travel for 2024 including her 86 shows in 27 Asian, Australian, European and North American cities.

"The goal of the study was to look into renewable energy," says Adi Sachdeva, a project manager with Payless Power. "Her tour is one of the biggest tours that have ever existed."

Using data from the Myclimate Carbon Tracker, the Texas-based company created a report projecting the jet's carbon emissions, not including any detours the singer may make between stops.

They noted Swift will fly an estimated 43,688 kilometers and emit 511,154 kilograms of CO2 for the Eras Tour. To put this into perspective, it's the equivalent of driving 1,307,311 miles in a gasoline-powered passenger vehicle. It's also equivalent to the emissions made from 67 households in an entire year.

Although this may seem like a lot for the singer conducting a record-breaking tour across the world, the report states her 2024 travel still doesn't come close to the top celebrity emitters of 2023: Travis Scott (6.06 million kilograms of CO2), Kim Kardashian (5.86 million) and Elon Musk (4.56 million).

"We wanted to make comparisons to individuals, in general," Sachdeva says. "A lot of times you'll see these large numbers online of a private jet but without seeing what that means, people will go with the numbers that seem very large without knowing their own emissions."

An environmentalist weighs in

Nick Loris, the vice president of public policy for C3 Solutions , a conservative climate coalition looking to improve energy abundance and energy affordability, helps to put Swift's jet-setting impact into perspective.

"While aviation is important and private aviation is a pretty high contributor to the industry, it's still a relatively small percentage of overall global greenhouse gas emissions," he says. "Some of the top emissions are caused by the burning of fossil fuels for electricity, heat and transportation, so coal, oil and to a lesser extent natural gas. Buildings use a lot of energy, and we primarily use gasoline and diesel to get around. Industry and agriculture are other fairly big contributors.”

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, aircraft accounts for 9% of carbon-related emissions in the United States. Private jets produce at least 10 times more emissions than commercial flights per passenger.

Loris notes the reality is Swift can't fly commercial. It would lead to a surfeit of issues with logistics and security; consider the circle of security guards that surround her on red carpets.

So what are the solutions?

Loris says Swift's overall impact to emissions, in 2022, was about 0.000000225% after dividing her emissions, 8,300 metric tons, by global greenhouse gas emissions of 36.8 gigatons. Her percentage for 2023 and 2024 may be slightly higher with her tour travel.

Tree Paine, Swift's publicist, told Bloomberg News in 2023 the singer-songwriter purchased more than double the credits needed to offset all her travel .

"There are a few challenges with carbon credits," Loris says. "There are a lot of good activities that result from carbon offset projects, things like reforestation projects, different types of direct air capture technologies or investments in renewable power. The challenge is there are also a lot of junk carbon offsets where the project may have been built anyway and therefore there was no additional reduction in emissions. It's also important that carbon offset projects are measurable and durable. Let's say you purchased carbon offsets for a reforestation project in California, and then all of those burn up in a forest wildfire. That would release pollution and CO2 into the atmosphere and undo the carbon offset."

Loris says with all the increased attention, the singer could become a vocal advocate for jet-setting solutions and an investor in new and innovative technology such as sustainable aviation fuels or direct air capture (essentially a carbon-sucking vacuum).

Swift is on the European leg of the Eras Tour . She has shows in 15 more cities across the continent before heading to North America in the fall.

Don't miss any Taylor Swift news; sign up for the  free, weekly newsletter This Swift Beat.

Follow Taylor Swift reporter Bryan West on  Instagram ,  TikTok  and  X as @BryanWestTV

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Taylor Swift catches a lot of heat over jet travel. Here's her actual impact

Songs of Travel 9+

An interactive graphic novel, causa creations interactive media gmbh, designed for ipad, screenshots, description.

An animated graphic novel exploring the unique stories of five migrants. An animated graphic novel exploring the unique stories of five migrants seeking new beginnings in Europe. Together, these stories paint a mosaic of themes such as our hopes, dreams, and identities and the things we treasure most. The aim of Songs of Travel is to bring the personal stories of migrants to a wider audience and paint a vivid picture of the topic of migration. The narratives are tied together by the experiences of the Syrian artist Jack Gutmann, who co-developed the award-winning game "Path Out" with the game’s developer, Causa Creations. These tales are set to the backdrop of a specially curated soundtrack by Northern Irish composer Elaine Agnew. The use of this music is a vital element of the project, which will be presented in the four partnering festivals in Ireland (Cellissimo), Sweden (Fairplay Chamber music), Norway (Valdres Sommersymfoni) in 2024, and in the Netherlands (Piano Biennale) in 2025. Follow the narratives of: * Light, a non-binary Syrian refugee who arrives in Vienna after years of hardship and war in Syria and the United Arab Emirates. * Vân, the daughter of a Vietnamese contract worker who grew up in East-Germany and who must deal with the duality of being Vietnamese-German. * Michele, the son of Francesco Cicora, an Italian coal miner who died in the great mining disaster of Marcinelle 1956 in Belgium. * Hasan, who came to Austria at the age of 1, when his mother moved there from Istanbul, Turkey. * Olya, a Ukrainian lawyer and a refugee who has had to flee twice: first when she left her home of Donetsk in 2014 and fled to Kyiv, and then when she fled from Ukraine once war erupted in 2022.

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