travel vibe songs

The Ultimate Travel Playlist: 100 Best Travel Songs (with Lyrics and Videos)

Katie Hammel

July 18, 2023

10 min read

Music has the power to transport us, change our moods, and conjure memories. And, for many travelers, music is closely linked to travel. It can helps us understand the people and culture of a place, break down language barriers, and sear certain moments into our memories forever.

With help from members of our Travel Community and Going staff, we've created the ultimate travel playlist of 100 travel songs. Some reference specific places, others showcase the musical talent of a specific country, and others simply celebrate the joy of exploration.

Here, in no particular order, are 100 of our favorite travel songs.

56 songs that reference specific places in the title or lyrics

Sure, some of these songs, such Paris by the Chainsmokers or Toto’s Africa , actually have little to do with the specific place; it’s just used as the title or the setting for the story. But others not only reference a country or city, they also evoke a specific sense of that particular place or tell a story about that destination.

For example, in Marrakech Express , Crosby, Stills & Nash recount scenes from a train ride Nash actually took in 1966. In London Calling , the Clash sing about the social issues facing London in the late 70s. In Walking in Memphis , Marc Cohn croons about his experience wandering the city. And Simon & Garfunkel's America was inspired by a road trip that Paul Simon took with his girlfriend.

Here are some of our favorite songs that mention a specific city or country, and a snippet of the lyrics.

Listen when:  you're on a $388 flight to Vienna, or a $671 flight to Johannesburg, or a $353 flight to Paris, or...

1. Kathmandu – 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 ‍

2. One Night in Bangkok – 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

3. I've Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash

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

4. Africa – 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

Bonus: Check out the 2018 cover by Weezer and this awesome 2016 video from Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard.

5. Marrakech Express – 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

6. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) – 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

7. San Francisco – Scott McKenzie

If you're going to San Francisco

Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair

You're gonna meet some gentle people there

8. London Calling – 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

9. Galway Girl – 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

10. Istanbul (Not Constantinople) – 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

11. Ramblin’ Man – 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

12. Aux Champs-Élysées – 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

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

13. Lovers in Japan – Coldplay

Tonight, maybe we're gonna run

Dreamin' of the Osaka sun

Ohh, ohh, ohhh

Dreamin' of when the morning comes

14. Barcelona – George Ezra

Every time you have to go

Shut my eyes and you know

I’ll be lying right by your side

In Barcelona

15. April in Paris – 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

16. Blue Hawaii – 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

17. Back in the U.S.S.R. – 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.

18. Rio – Netsky 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

19. 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

20. Havana – 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 ‍

21. In America – 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

22. Tennessee – 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

23. Paris – 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

24. Graceland – 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

25. Carolina in My Mind – 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

26. New York State of Mind – 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

27. Walking in Memphis – 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?

28. America – 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

29. Mexico – 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

30. California – 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.

31. Chicago – Sufjan Stevens

I fell in love again

All things go, all things go

Drove to Chicago

All things know, all things know

32. Kokomo – The Beach Boys

Off the Florida Keys, there's a place called Kokomo

That's where you want to go to get away from it all

Bodies in the sand, tropical drink melting in your hand

We'll be falling in love to the rhythm of a steel drum band

Down in Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take you to

Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama

Key Largo, Montego, baby why don't we go

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

33. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Sweet home Alabama

Where the skies are so blue

Lord, I'm coming home to you

34. Vertigo – FM Belfast

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

35. California Love – 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

36. Malibu – Miley Cyrus

But here I am

Next to you

The sky is so blue

37. Midnight Train to Georgia – Gladys Knight and the Pips

He's leaving

On that midnight train to Georgia

And he's goin' back

To a simpler place and time

And I’ll be with him

I'd rather live in his world

Than live without him in mine

38. California Dreaming – The Mamas and the Papas

All the leaves are brown

And the sky is grey

I've been for a walk

On a winter's day

I'd be safe and warm

If I was in L.A.

California dreamin'

On such a winter's day

39. New York Groove – 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

40. Miami – 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

41. Vienna – 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

42. Viva Las Vegas – 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

43. Rocky Road to Dublin – 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

44. Beverly Hills – Weezer

Beverly Hills

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

Livin' in Beverly Hills

Rollin' like a celebrity (gimme, gimme)

45. Surfin' USA – 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.

46. I'm Shipping Up To Boston – 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

47. Hello Seattle – 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

48. God Blessed Texas – 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

49. Taj Mahal – 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

50. Alaska – 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

51. Miles from Minnesota – 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

52. Take Me Home Country Roads – John Denver

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 mama

Take me home, country roads

53. Miles Away – 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

54. Brazil – 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?

55. Under African Skies – Paul Simon

Joseph's face was as black as the night

And the pale yellow moon shone in his eyes

His path was marked

By the stars in the Southern Hemisphere

And he walked the length of his days

Under African skies

56. Take It Easy – The Eagles

Well I'm a standin' on a corner in Winslow, Arizona

Such a fine sight to see

It's a girl, my lord, in a flatbed

Ford slowin' down to take a look at me

Come on baby

Don't say maybe

I gotta know if your sweet love is gonna save me

We may lose and we may win

Though we will never be here again

So open up, I'm climbin' in

Take it easy

26 awesome international songs

A song’s title or lyrics don’t need to explicitly mention a specific place; sometimes it's the artist, the melody, the language, or simply the emotion of the song that ties it in our memories to a place we love.

Whether it’s the sultry sounds of Gotan Project’s Amor Porteno taking us back to a tango club in Buenos Aires, or the ethereal sounds of Hoppípolla from Sigur Rós transporting us to the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland, these international songs make us think of the places they are from or written about.

Listen when:  you're on your cheap flight to Iceland, or packing for your trip to Seoul, or strolling the streets of Paris, or driving the backroads of Scotland, or...

57. The Last – Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra

58. let the music play – shamur, 59. la vie en rose – edith piaf, 60. gangnam style – psy.

61. Immigrant Song – Led Zeppelin

62. money (that's what i want) – cheryl k, 63. royals – lorde, 64. rewrite – asian kung fu generation, 65. redemption song – bob marley, 66. dreams – the cranberries, 67. little busters – the pillows, 68. jai ho – a.r. rahman.

69. Counting Stars – Nujabes

70. i’m gonna be (500 miles) – the proclaimers, 71. sni bong – dengue fever, 72. jungle drum – emiliana torrini.

73. On and On – VIXX

74. beds are burning – midnight oil, 75. amor porteño – gotan project, 76. dui bu qi – transition, 77. sirocco – ulrich schnauss and jonas munk, 78. mi gente – j balvin.

79. Hoppípolla – Sigur Rós

80. somewhere over the rainbow – israel kamakawiwoʻole, 81. land down under – men at work, 82. guantanamera – celia cruz.

‍ 18 great songs about travel and wanderlust

Finally, the last songs on the list are those that inspire us to get out and see the world, that commiserate with those us of suffering from the travel bug, and that celebrate the beauty of a life less ordinary.

Listen when: you're suffering from an acute case of wanderlust or dreaming of your next great adventure.

83. Born to be Wild – Steppenwolf

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

84. Roam – The B52s

Roam if you want to

Roam around the world

Without wings, without wheels

Without anything but the love we feel

85. I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For – U2

I have climbed the highest mountains

I have run through the fields

Only to be with you

I have run, I have crawled

I have scaled these city walls

These city walls

But I still haven't found

What I'm looking for

86. Come Fly with Me – Frank Sinatra

Come fly with me, we'll fly, we'll fly away

If you can use some exotic booze

There's a bar in far Bombay

Come on fly with me, we'll fly, we'll fly away

87. 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

88. Road to Nowhere – Talking Heads

We're on a road to nowhere

Come on inside

Taking that ride to nowhere

We'll take that ride

I'm feeling okay this morning

And you know

We're on the road to paradise

Here we go, here we go

89. Life is a Highway – Tom Cochran

Life's like a road that you travel on

When there's one day here and the next day gone

Sometimes you bend, sometimes you stand

Sometimes you turn your back to the wind

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

We won't hesitate, break down the garden gate

There's not much time left today

90. When I’m Gone (Cups Song) – 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

91. Born to Run – 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

92. Send Me On My Way – 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)

93. Margaritaville – Jimmy Buffett

I blew out my flip flop

Stepped on a pop top

Cut my heel had to cruise on back home

But there's booze in the blender

And soon it will render

That frozen concoction that helps me hang on

Wastin' away again in Margaritaville

Searchin' for my lost shaker of salt

Some people claim that there's a woman to blame

But I know it's my own damn fault

94. Moon River – 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

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

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 breakin'

It's early morn

The taxi's waitin'

He's blowin' his horn

Already I'm so lonesome

I could cry

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

96. The Passenger – 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 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

97. Vacation – The Go-Go's

All I ever wanted

Had to get away

Meant to be spent alone

98. Homeward Bound – 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

99. No Roots – 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

100. Fly Away – Lenny Kravitz

I want to get away

I want to fly away

Yeah, yeah, yeah ‍

Love travel? See the world for less. Sign up for Going and save up to 90% on flights.

Katie is Going's Director of Content Marketing. She has been to 30+ countries, prefers markets to museums, hates cucumbers, and dreams of one day living in a small cabin by the sea in Iceland. Originally from Detroit, she lived in Seattle and Chicago before settling in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and their two cats.

Published July 18, 2023

Last updated December 28, 2023

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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..

By Izzy Casey — 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.

45 Best Songs About Traveling and Experiencing the World

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Roads Go Ever On , Clamavi De Profundis

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

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

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

2. Anywhere , Rita Ora

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

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

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

3. The City of New Orleans , Arlo Guthrie

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

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

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

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

4. Roam , The B-52’s

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

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

5. Traveling On , Kongos

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

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

6. Wanderlust , Frank Turner

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

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

7. Good Life , OneRepublic

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

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

8. On the Road Again , Willie Nelson

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

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

Play this song for good vibes on your own travels.

9. I’ve Been Everywhere , Johnny Cash

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

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

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

10. Leaving on a Jet Plane , Chantal Kreviazuk

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

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

11. Anywhere , Passenger

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

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

12. Road Trippin’ , Red Hot Chili Peppers

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

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

13. Explore the World , Brainheart ft. Sis

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

Life is short, and this song understands that.

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

14. The Open Road , Hollow Coves

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

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

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

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

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

15. Traveler , Chris Stapleton

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

This song won a Grammy for Best Country Solo Performance.

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

16. Little Wanderer , Death Cab For Cutie

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

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

17. Barcelona , Ed Sheeran

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

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

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

18. Sleep on the Floor , The Lumineers

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

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

19. Hard Travelin’ , Woody Guthrie

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

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

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

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

20. Malibu , Hole

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

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

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

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

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

22. California Bound , Carolina Liar

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

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

23. Carolina in My Mind , James Taylor

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

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

24. I Have Been Around the World , Dar Williams

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

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

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

25. Travel the World Song , Spookiz

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

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

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

26. Happy Trails , Roy Rogers

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

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

27. White Line Fever , Merle Haggard

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

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

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

28. Africa , Toto

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

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

29. Every Day Is a Winding Road , Sheryl Crow

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

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

30. Marrakesh Express , Crosby, Stills, and Nash

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

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

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

31. Paris, Texas , Lana Del Rey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

34. No Roots , Alice Merton

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

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

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

35. The Longest Road , Morgan Page

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

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

36. Vienna , Billy Joel

“ When will you realize Vienna waits for you? ”

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

37. Midnight Memories , One Direction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

40. Highway Song , Blackfoot

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

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

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

41. Hotel California , Eagles

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

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

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

42. Trains, Boats, and Planes , Dionne Warwick

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

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

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

43. The Love Boat Theme , Jack Jones

“ The Love Boat soon will be making another run. The Love Boat promises something for everyone. Set a course for adventure. Your mind on a new romance. ”

The Love Boat is a TV show that aired from 1977 to 1986. It is about the hilarious romantic experiences of the crew and passengers of the cruise ship MS Pacific Princess .

The show has a theme song that highlights the possibilities of romance and adventure while on board the love boat.

44. Lost in Japan , Shawn Mendes

“ Do you got plans tonight? I'm a couple hundred miles from Japan, and I, I was thinking I could fly to your hotel tonight 'cause I-I-I can't get you off my mind. ”

This song is about traveling for the sake of love. In it, Mendes shows his commitment to his beloved by offering to fly to Japan so that they can be together.

45. Hitch Hike , Marvin Gaye

“ I've got to find that girl if I have to hitchhike 'round the world. ”

In the same vein as the previous song, a guy hitchhikes all across the country, determined to find his girlfriend, even though the girl’s been unfaithful to him.

Final Thoughts on Songs About Traveling

Each time you pack your bags and head to new places, you become a new person.

Traveling is one of the best ways for you to grow in wisdom and experience. It helps you develop a deeper understanding of yourself , the world, and life in general.

Hopefully, you’ve found a favorite or two among the songs about traveling featured in this collection.

If you enjoyed this article, you might want to check out the following articles of song collections for specific topics:

• 57 Best Songs About Home: Leaving, Missing, and Coming Home
• 43 Best Songs About Happiness and Good Times
• 33 Best Songs About Family & Being with Loved Ones

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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29 Travel Songs for the perfect Road Trip Playlist – Hostelgeeks Mixtape

We collected here 29 travel songs that we think can’t be missed on the perfect playlist for travelers.

Some of those travel songs will make your hips move, others are more calm, laid-back.

Just decide for yourself. Either way, those travel songs are the perfect background jingles, when backpacking the world.

This quote “open up your hear, even good things can leave scars, don’t be afraid” is a quote from Ramon Mirabet – Those Little Things (Song #12 in this list!).

Find 109 more beautiful travel quotes here .

More quotation articles

• funniest travel quotes
• 47 quotes for solo travelers
• 109 best travel quotes
• funny travel puns

We at Hostelgeeks award the most amazing Hostels in the world. Many of the 5 Star Hostel are also passionate music lover. They organize live concerts, invite musicians, and create a cosy vibe around the music.

Find 17 more backpacker songs  you will love as well.

Subscribe on Youtube to stay up to date!

We want to start this list with one of our favorite travel songs:

1. Here we are – Part-Time Friends

One our latest discoveries.

Click play, we bet you cannot hold your feet still. We found this song when leaving the Airport in Singapore. We were on our way to Adler Luxury Hostel and ever since, this song reminds us of that time.

But now, listen:

Get up we are still in trouble Still a shamble Here we are Instead of staying in this bow Let’s have a bloody row Here we are It’s unfair to love someone who wants to beat you down so much here we are

Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control Something tear us apart We thought we never laughed before Something rise and fall who though it would be nothing at all

2. Happy Days – Ramón Mirabet

I wonder very far. I am all I’ve known I’m not afraid to let myself go. I say Yeah! I say Yeah! I say Yeah! Could I ask myself for more?

3. Sky on the Loose – Inkfields

Let us a go less mainstream. Meet Inkfields, a solo india rock act from Edinburgh, UK. He is a keen traveller and so many of his songs are travel related such as The Last Ebb , People of the Sea and Svennige .

“Sky on the loose” is our favorite. Listen to the song below and find all his songs on Spotify here .

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!’

4. Fantastic shine – Love of Lesbian

Mediterranean flair all over it. Jump on your Vespa and listen to the track, you will thank me later. Fantastic shine by Love Of Lesbians.

Have I told you lately? We are friends through this trip of… Time, oh, what is time? The kind of thing that no one knows Take a look at who’s around you Spin in circles, ring round with you

5. We Are Young – Fun. ft. Janelle Monáe

Tonight We are young So let’s set the world on fire We can burn brighter than the sun

Stay young with this one. WE ARE YOUNG

6. Bicicletes – BLAUMUT

This is my favorite Catalan music group. Get the full album by Blaumut here.

Un dilluns perfecte, Bicicletes sense mans. Tinc un pas de zebra nou, recent pintat. Vols gelat de menta? Les finestres semblen de paper mullat.

Tant soroll que falta l’aire, He perdut la brúixola i el nord, Que dec haver guardat per aquí. Deixa’t de paraules ara, Penja des d’un arbre aquesta

7. Song 2 – Blur – the FIFA Classic

I bet you cannot hold still when listen to this one.

Woo-hoo Woo-hoo Woo-hoo Woo-hoo

I got my head checked By a jumbo jet It wasn’t easy But nothing is No

8. Candy – Paolo Nutini

Oh darling, I’ll kiss your eyes and lay you down on your rug Just give me some candy after my hug Oh, and I’m often false explaining But to her it plays out all the same And although I’m left defeated It gets held against my name

9. Someone Told Me –  Jake Bugg

Get the track by Jake Bugg here.

Tried to break from this lonely pain Someone told me I’m just insane oh oh oh Broke my heart when I knew, That I could never be with you oh oh oh

10. We are the people – Empire of the Sun

We are the people that rule the world

A force running in every boy and girl

All rejoicing in the world

Take me now, we can try

11. Caravan – Passenger

Cause you search for years but you lose everything you find.

There’s braille for the deaf and a signpost for the blind,

there’s heaven for the cruel but the devil waits for the kind.

12. Those Little Things – Ramon Mirabet

Life (spreading) on a fire.

Say we’ll do it all again,

Trying to (west) to get it higher,

Always with a smile upon my face.

13. Paradise – Coldplay

My absolute favorite band out there.

When she was just a girl

She expected the world

But it flew away from her reach

And the bullets catch in her teeth

Life goes on, it gets so heavy

The wheel breaks the butterfly

Every tear a waterfall

In the night the stormy night she’ll close her eyes

In the night the stormy night away she’d fly

14. Break The Night With Colour – Richard Ashcroft

Monday morning coming down, lack understanding

Mama thinks you are the clown, your looking so frightening

Nothing’s going right today, cos nothing ever does

15. One day baby – Asaf Avidan

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

16. Heroes – David Bowie

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

17. Listen to the Man – George Ezra

Your world keeps spinning and you can’t jump off But I will catch you if you fall, I can’t tell you enough I hate to hear that you’re feeling low I hate to hear that you won’t come home

18. Back down south – Kings of Leon

Underneath the stars Where we parked the cars Ain’t showing signs of stopping Pretty little girls Naked to their curls Ready to lay in the coffin

19. Spirits – The Strumbellas

I spent a lot of nights on the run And I think oh, like I’m lost and can’t be found I’m just waiting for my day to come And I think oh, I don’t wanna let you down Cause something inside has changed And maybe we don’t wanna stay the same

20. Simple Song – The Shins

Well, this would be a simple song, To say what you done. I told you ’bout all those fears, And away they did run. You sure must be strong, And you feel like an ocean being warm by the sun.

21. Stubborn Live – The Lumineers

And I don’t blame you, dear For running like you did all these years I would do the same you best believe And the highway signs say we’re close, But I dont read those things anymore I never trusted my own eyes

22. Catch& Release – Matt Simons

There’s a place I’m going No one knows me If I breathe real slowly I let it out and let it in

It can be terrifying To be slowly dying Also, clarifying We end where we begin

23. End of the Line – Traveling Wilburys

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

24. If I had a boat – James Vincent McMorrow

If I had a boat I would sail to you Hold you in my arms, ask you to be true Once I had a dream, it died long before Now I’m pointed north, hoping for the shore

25. Traveling On – Kongos

And when the years pass us by I wonder if we’ll cry For losing so much time For moments we may miss For the love that still exists tonight

26. Milk & Honey – Beatsteaks

Some people wear gloves Carrying their portions of love Until death comes from above Now for dreams and for plans You try as hard as you land But I’ve made up my mind

27. Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

I’ll follow you into the park, through the jungle, through the dark Girl, I’ve never loved one like you

Moats & boats & waterfalls, alley ways & pay phone calls I’ve been everywhere with you

28. Reality – Lost Frequencies feat. Janieck Devy

Decisions as I go, to anywhere I flow. Sometimes I believe, at times I’m rational. I can fly high, I can go low. Today I got a million, Tomorrow, I don’t know.

29. Tour the World – Video with every country in the world

30. Riptide – Vance Joy

And they come unstuck Lady, running down to the riptide taken away to the dark side I wanna be your left hand man. I love you, when you’re singing that song and I got a lump in my throat ’cause

31. Our Place – Maia Vidal

We found this song of Maia Vidal, called “Our Place”. Have a look at the lyrics. It makes it such a romantic travel songs, doesn’t it?

I’d like to stay here For a while and go wild You’ll call me crazy But I don’t care Because I know where…

Where I go where I go You’re going to take me Where I go where I go You’re going to take me Take me for a ride And I’ll be by your side

32. Feel Good – Gorillaz

Turn forever hand in hand Take it all in on your stride It is ticking, falling down Love forever love is free Let’s turn forever you and me Windmill, windmill for the land

Summary: Travel Songs for the perfect Playlist

C’mon, you didn’t just sit on your chair, right?! We love these travel songs, and we hope so do you. You can find more AWESOME backpacker songs here .

Find 17 more travel songs here .

Do you have a favorite travel song you’d recommend? Please leave a comment, we’d be happy to extend this travel music playlist!

pin it now, read and listen later

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Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

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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The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist To Inspire Wanderlust

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road or embarking on a new adventure with the perfect soundtrack playing in the background. Music has a way of capturing the essence of travel, evoking feelings of wanderlust, and transporting us to different places and times. Whether you’re exploring new cities, trekking through remote landscapes, or simply daydreaming about your next journey, having a curated playlist of travel songs is essential.

In this article, we have compiled the ultimate travel songs playlist that will inspire wanderlust and enhance your travel experience. From uplifting and energetic tunes to reflective and soulful melodies, we’ve got you covered. We’ve categorized the songs into different sections to suit various moods and preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

So, whether you’re embarking on an epic road trip, planning a backpacking adventure, or simply looking for some musical inspiration to fuel your wanderlust, get ready to dive into the world of travel songs that will transport you to new destinations and ignite your sense of adventure.

Section 1: Upbeat and Energetic Travel Songs

When you’re in the mood for an adventure and need a burst of energy, upbeat travel songs are the perfect choice. These songs are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping and have you singing along in no time.

1. “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson: A classic road trip anthem, this upbeat country song will have you dreaming of hitting the highway and exploring new horizons.

2. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston: This energetic song will make you want to dance your way through new cities and let loose as you experience the joy of travel.

3. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay: With its catchy beat and uplifting lyrics, this song is perfect for those moments when you want to embrace the thrill and adventure of exploring new places.

4. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves: This feel-good song is a reminder to embrace the sunshine, soak up the positive vibes, and make the most of every travel experience.

5. “Roam” by The B-52’s: This fun and upbeat track will have you singing along and dreaming of roaming the world with a carefree spirit.

6. “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys: No travel playlist is complete without a song from The Beach Boys. “Good Vibrations” is all about spreading positivity and capturing the essence of a sunny, fun-filled adventure.

7. “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen: This iconic Queen song is an anthem for living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment. It’s the perfect soundtrack for your next travel adventure.

8. “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon: This infectious pop-rock tune will have you dancing and singing along, reminding you to let go of your worries and embrace the joy of exploring new destinations.

9. “Holiday” by Madonna: With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, “Holiday” will transport you to a carefree vacation state of mind, making it a must-have on your travel playlist.

10. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen: This iconic rock anthem embodies the spirit of adventure and the freedom of the open road. It’s the perfect song to kick-start your travel journey.

These upbeat and energetic travel songs are sure to get your spirits high and set the tone for an unforgettable adventure. So, turn up the volume and let the music guide you on your next travel escapade.

Section 2: Reflective and Soulful Travel Songs

Traveling often evokes a sense of introspection and self-discovery. Reflective and soulful travel songs provide the perfect soundtrack for those quiet moments of contemplation as you journey to new destinations. These songs capture the emotional depth and transformative power of travel.

1. “Wild World” by Cat Stevens: This timeless classic is a heartfelt reminder of the bittersweet nature of leaving familiar places behind and embracing the unknown.

2. “The Long and Winding Road” by The Beatles: With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, this song beautifully reflects the introspective nature of travel and the emotional journey it can take us on.

3. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman: This soul-stirring song tells a story of longing for escape and the desire for a better life, resonating with anyone yearning for adventure and change.

4. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty: As you embark on your travel journey, this introspective song reminds you to let go of inhibitions and embrace the freedom and unknown that lay ahead.

5. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen: With its poetic lyrics and soulful melody, this song captures the emotional depth and spiritual aspect of travel, offering a sense of solace and hope.

6. “Learning to Fly” by Tom Petty: This introspective anthem is a reflection on personal growth and the challenges that come with leaving your comfort zone and spreading your wings.

7. “Fast Car” by Jonas Blue ft. Dakota: A modern rendition of Tracy Chapman’s iconic song, this version adds an electronic touch while still capturing the longing for escape and the desire for new experiences.

8. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd: This soulful and melancholic song reflects on the fleeting nature of time and the longing for human connection even while exploring new places.

9. “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros: With its warm and soulful sound, this song encapsulates the feeling of finding a sense of belonging and home within the journey of travel.

10. “Take It Easy” by Eagles: This laid-back and reflective song reminds us to take a step back, appreciate the beauty of our surroundings, and embrace the simplicity of life on the road.

These reflective and soulful travel songs will accompany you on your journey, inviting moments of self-reflection and providing emotional depth to your travel experiences. So, sit back, relax, and let the music guide you on your inner exploration while you explore the world.

Section 3: Wanderlust-themed Pop Songs

Pop music has a way of capturing the spirit of adventure, and wanderlust-themed pop songs are perfect for getting you in the mood to explore the world. These catchy tunes will have you singing along and daydreaming about your next travel destination.

1. “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield: This empowering anthem encourages you to seize the moment and embrace the unknown as you embark on new adventures.

2. “Counting Stars” by OneRepublic: With its catchy melody and reflective lyrics, this song reminds us to cherish every moment and appreciate the wonders of the world.

3. “Wake Me Up” by Avicii: The upbeat tunes of this song are perfect for embracing new experiences and navigating the world with a sense of excitement and curiosity.

4. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus: This inspiring ballad serves as a reminder to persevere through challenges and embrace the journey, no matter how difficult.

5. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: This timeless classic is the ultimate anthem for following your dreams and finding your way in the world.

6. “Firework” by Katy Perry: With its uplifting message, this pop hit serves as a reminder to let your light shine and embrace your uniqueness as you explore new horizons.

7. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake: This infectious pop song will have you dancing along and feeling the joy of travel as you embrace the rhythm of new places.

8. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas: This upbeat and energetic track captures the excitement and anticipation of a great night out or an adventure-filled day.

9. “Adventure” by Cheat Codes ft. Evan Gartner: With its vibrant beats and lyrics, this pop song is a perfect reminder to live life to the fullest and embark on new adventures.

10. “Roar” by Katy Perry: This empowering anthem encourages you to find your voice, step out of your comfort zone, and explore the world fearlessly.

These wanderlust-themed pop songs will add a sense of fun and excitement to your travel experiences. So, turn up the volume, sing along, and let the music inspire you as you embark on your next adventure.

Section 4: Classic Travel Songs

Classic travel songs have a timeless appeal and evoke a sense of nostalgia. These iconic tunes have been the soundtrack to countless journeys and continue to inspire wanderlust in travelers around the world. Let’s take a look at some of the must-have classic travel songs that should be on your playlist.

1. “Hotel California” by Eagles: This legendary song tells a captivating story of a traveler’s journey to the mysterious Hotel California, making it a true classic in the realm of travel music.

2. “Route 66” by Chuck Berry: As one of the most famous highways in the United States, Route 66 has inspired countless road trips. This song captures the essence of the iconic route and the freedom of the open road.

3. “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash: This catchy tune lists off numerous locations, igniting a sense of wanderlust and curiosity about the vast world just waiting to be explored.

4. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd: While specifically referring to Alabama, this song is an anthem for all travelers, reminding us of the longing for a place to call home no matter where our journey takes us.

5. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver: This heartfelt ballad celebrates the beauty of West Virginia and resonates with anyone yearning for the familiarity of home and the peacefulness of the countryside.

6. “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf: Rev up your engines and hit the road with this iconic biker anthem that embodies the spirit of adventure, freedom, and a wild rebellious nature.

7. “California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & The Papas: This soulful song captures the yearning for warm California sunshine and paints a vivid picture of the longing for a change of scenery.

8. “Proud Mary” by Creedence Clearwater Revival: The energetic rhythm and powerful vocals of this song will have you picturing yourself cruising down a river, ready to explore new horizons.

9. “Rocky Mountain High” by John Denver: This melodic classic transports listeners to the majestic Rocky Mountains, evoking a sense of awe and reverence for the beauty of nature.

10. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver: A song about saying goodbye and embarking on an adventure, it captures the mix of excitement and sadness that comes with leaving behind loved ones.

These classic travel songs have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with travelers of all generations. So, add them to your playlist and let the nostalgia and wanderlust wash over you as you explore new destinations.

Section 5: Indie and Alternative Travel Songs

Indie and alternative travel songs offer a unique and often introspective take on the joys and challenges of travel. These songs have a distinctive sound and lyrical depth that resonate with those seeking a more offbeat and authentic travel experience. Let’s explore some of the must-have indie and alternative travel songs for your playlist.

1. “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers: This uplifting folk-pop tune is perfect for road trips and sing-alongs, capturing the spirit of adventure and the simple joys of exploring new places.

2. “Flume” by Bon Iver: With its ethereal sound and poetic lyrics, this indie folk song evokes a sense of tranquility and reflection, making it perfect for peaceful moments on your journey.

3. “Riptide” by Vance Joy: This catchy indie pop song embodies the carefree and whimsical nature of travel, conjuring images of sunny beaches and carefree adventures.

4. “No Cars Go” by Arcade Fire: With its anthemic sound and soaring chorus, this indie rock track captures the rebellious spirit and desire for escape that often accompanies travel.

5. “Young Folks” by Peter Bjorn and John: This indie pop gem is a catchy and nostalgic ode to the youthful spirit and sense of adventure that travel brings.

6. “Walcott” by Vampire Weekend: With its energetic pace and infectious melodies, this indie rock song will have you dreaming of exploring vibrant cities and immersing yourself in new cultures.

7. “Island in the Sun” by Weezer: This alternative rock classic brings to mind visions of idyllic island getaways and carefree days spent soaking up the sun.

8. “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons: With its anthemic sound and positive message, this alternative rock song encourages you to seize the moment and pursue your dreams, wherever they may lead.

9. “Simple Song” by The Shins: This indie rock anthem is a delightful tribute to the joy of traveling with loved ones, capturing the essence of creating unforgettable memories on the road.

10. “Don’t Let It Get You Down” by Johnnyswim: This indie folk track is a reminder to stay resilient and positive in the face of challenges, perfect for those moments when travel throws unexpected curveballs your way.

These indie and alternative travel songs provide a unique and introspective perspective on the wonders and challenges of travel. So, dive into their atmospheric sounds and thought-provoking lyrics as you embark on your next adventure.

Section 6: Folk and Acoustic Travel Songs

Folk and acoustic travel songs have a way of capturing the essence of the journey with their raw and organic sound. These songs often tell stories of wanderlust, longing, and the beauty of nature. Let’s explore some of the must-have folk and acoustic travel songs for your playlist.

1. “The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel: This timeless folk ballad tells a tale of resilience and perseverance, resonating with travelers who navigate through life’s challenges on their journey.

2. “Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell: With its melodic guitar and iconic lyrics, this song reflects on the importance of preserving nature’s beauty and serves as a reminder to appreciate the world around us.

3. “I Will Wait” by Mumford & Sons: This anthemic folk-rock song embodies the sense of anticipation and patience that comes with waiting for new adventures and exploring unknown paths.

4. “Country Roads” by John Denver: A classic folk song that celebrates the beauty of West Virginia, it evokes a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the countryside.

5. “The Cave” by Mumford & Sons: This folk-inspired track is a reminder to embrace vulnerability and to keep exploring and discovering the depths of the world, both externally and internally.

6. “Rhythm of Love” by Plain White T’s: This acoustic pop song captures the joy and excitement of falling in love with a place or a person during your travel adventures.

7. “Sweet Baby James” by James Taylor: This soothing acoustic ballad paints a picture of open roads and starry nights, perfectly capturing the tranquility and freedom that travel brings.

8. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” by Elton John: This folk-infused song speaks to the longing for something more, urging us to let go of materialistic desires and venture onto a path of self-discovery.

9. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman: With its poignant storytelling and stripped-down acoustic sound, this song captures the dreams of escape and the yearning for a better life that travel often represents.

10. “Fire and Rain” by James Taylor: This introspective folk song reflects on the ups and downs of life’s journey, reminding us to find strength and resilience through the storms we encounter.

These folk and acoustic travel songs convey the beauty and emotions that travel can evoke. So, sit back, relax, and let their soothing melodies and thoughtful lyrics accompany you on your next adventure.

Section 7: International and World Music Travel Songs

When it comes to capturing the spirit of travel, international and world music travel songs take us on a global journey through their vibrant and diverse sounds. These songs showcase the rich cultural tapestry of different countries and invite us to explore the world through music. Let’s immerse ourselves in some of the must-have international and world music travel songs for your playlist.

1. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” by Shakira: This catchy global anthem, released for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, celebrates the unity and diversity of Africa, serving as an infectious invitation to embrace the rhythm and energy of the continent.

2. “Bailando” by Enrique Iglesias ft. Descemer Bueno, Gente De Zona: This Latin pop hit invites listeners to embrace the joy and passion of Latin dance and culture, providing a vibrant backdrop for your travels.

3. “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega: This lively and upbeat song combines elements of mambo, samba, and other Latin rhythms, transporting listeners to a tropical paradise with its infectious melodies.

4. “Clandestino” by Manu Chao: This multilingual track combines reggae, rumba, and folk influences, reflecting on the experiences of migrants and serving as a reminder of the power of music to transcend borders.

5. “Ai Se Eu Te Pego” by Michel Teló: This Brazilian hit became a worldwide sensation with its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus, capturing the spirit of celebration and joy that accompanies the vibrant Brazilian culture.

6. “Dil Se Re” by A.R. Rahman: This mesmerizing Indian song blends Hindi and Tamil lyrics with a fusion of traditional and contemporary music, reminding us of the beauty and diversity of India.

7. “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee: One of the most successful Spanish-language songs in history, this reggaeton hit invites listeners to embrace the laid-back and vibrant spirit of Puerto Rico.

8. “Kiss the Rain” by Yiruma: This haunting instrumental piece by the South Korean pianist is a beautiful and evocative soundtrack for moments of tranquility and reflection during your travels.

9. “Bella Ciao” by Traditional Italian Folk Song: This iconic Italian resistance song has been embraced as an anthem of freedom and has been covered by artists from around the world, serving as a reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire.

10. “Africa” by Toto: This timeless classic captures the mystique and allure of the African continent, taking listeners on an imaginary journey through its iconic landscapes.

These international and world music travel songs offer a glimpse into different cultures and traditions, allowing us to connect with the world on a deeper level. So, let the rhythms and melodies transport you to distant lands and ignite your spirit of adventure.

Section 8: Road Trip Anthems

No travel experience is complete without an epic road trip, and having the perfect road trip anthems is essential to set the mood for adventure. These songs are perfect for singing along at the top of your lungs, feeling the wind in your hair, and immersing yourself in the freedom of the open road. Let’s explore some of the must-have road trip anthems for your playlist.

1. “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane: This timeless classic is the ultimate road trip anthem, reminding us to savor every moment as we cruise along the highways and chase our dreams.

2. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC: This hard rock anthem captures the rebellious spirit of the open road, propelling us forward on an adrenaline-fueled journey.

3. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen: With its energizing sound and lyrics about escaping the confines of ordinary life, this song is a powerful reminder to embrace the freedom of the road.

4. “Route 66” by Nat King Cole: This jazzy tune pays homage to the iconic historic highway, evoking a sense of nostalgia and adventure as you traverse the American landscape.

5. “Take It Easy” by Eagles: This laid-back and melodic song invites you to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and take life as it comes during your road trip adventures.

6. “Sweet Emotion” by Aerosmith: This classic rock song embodies the excitement, energy, and sense of adventure that comes with hitting the road and leaving your cares behind.

7. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: This uplifting anthem serves as a reminder to keep pushing forward, pursuing your dreams, and embracing the journey as you make memories on the road.

8. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers: With its infectious chorus, this folk-pop hit is a lighthearted celebration of the true essence of a road trip – the willingness to go the extra mile for love or adventure.

9. “Ramblin’ Man” by The Allman Brothers Band: This bluesy rock tune channels the spirit of a wanderer, embodying the desire to keep moving and exploring new places with a sense of freedom.

10. “Road Trippin'” by Red Hot Chili Peppers: This mellow and introspective song captures the essence of a road trip, emphasizing the bond between friends and the transformative nature of travel.

These road trip anthems will be the perfect companions as you embark on long stretches of highway, creating memories and embracing the freedom of the open road. So, turn up the volume, roll down the windows, and let the music guide you on your epic road trip adventure.

Section 9: Adventure and Exploration Songs

Embarking on an adventure and venturing into the unknown is exhilarating, and having the right soundtrack can enhance the experience. Adventure and exploration songs capture the daring spirit and the thrill of discovering new horizons. Let’s dive into some of the essential adventure and exploration songs for your playlist.

1. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay: This infectious pop-rock hit sets the tone for an adventure-filled journey, inviting you to embrace the excitement and joy of exploring new places.

2. “Dare You to Move” by Switchfoot: With its powerful lyrics and uplifting melody, this song inspires you to step outside your comfort zone and dare to chase your wildest dreams.

3. “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac: This timeless rock anthem encourages independence and emboldens you to forge your own path as you embark on new adventures.

4. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles: This empowering pop ballad reminds you to be brave and face your fears head-on as you embrace the unknown and seek new experiences.

5. “I Lived” by OneRepublic: With its inspiring lyrics and anthemic sound, this song encourages you to live fully in the present and seize every opportunity that comes your way.

6. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: This classic rock anthem is a rallying cry that encourages you to keep pushing forward, never giving up on your dreams, and embracing the adventure of life.

7. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus: With its uplifting message and powerful vocals, this pop ballad reminds you that the journey itself is just as important as reaching the destination.

8. “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons: This feel-good and upbeat song celebrates the exhilaration of achieving your goals and reminds you to savor every moment of your adventurous journey.

9. “Into the Wild” by LP: This indie pop anthem invites you to break free from the constraints of everyday life and venture into the wild, embracing the unknown with open arms.

10. “Learn to Fly” by Foo Fighters: With its energetic sound and powerful lyrics, this rock hit inspires you to spread your wings, take flight, and explore new heights of possibility.

These adventure and exploration songs will ignite your sense of wanderlust and motivate you to embark on bold, life-changing journeys. So, let the music fuel your spirit of adventure as you set out to conquer new horizons.

Music has a magical way of complementing our travel experiences, evoking emotions, and capturing the essence of our journeys. In this article, we’ve explored an array of travel songs from various genres, each offering a unique perspective on wanderlust, adventure, and exploration.

From the upbeat and energetic tunes that get our adrenaline pumping to the reflective and soulful melodies that inspire introspection, we’ve covered a broad range of travel songs for every mood and occasion. The wanderlust-themed pop songs bring a catchy and infectious spirit, while the classic travel songs evoke a sense of nostalgia and timelessness.

The indie and alternative travel songs offer a more offbeat and introspective approach, while the folk and acoustic travel songs provide a raw and organic sound that connects us with the beauty of nature. The international and world music travel songs take us on a global journey, celebrating the diverse cultures and rhythms of different countries.

We can’t forget the road trip anthems that accompany us on the open road, filling us with a sense of freedom and adventure. And if we’re seeking the thrill of exploration, the adventure and exploration songs inspire us to push boundaries and embrace the unknown.

As you curate your own travel playlist, consider the mood, destination, and emotions you want to evoke. Infuse it with a mix of these travel songs to create a soundtrack that truly represents your wanderlust spirit. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, backpacking adventure, or simply daydreaming about your next journey, let the power of music transport you to new places and ignite your sense of wanderlust.

So, pack your bags, hit play on your favorite travel songs, and let the melodies guide you on a journey filled with exploration, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. Safe travels!

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Larissa Gonzales

26 min read

13 Oct 2023

The 50 best travel songs of all time 

• Travel tricks

Music can make or break a trip. The right travel tunes will energize and inspire you, setting the perfect mood for adventure on the open road or high in the skies. 

Here are our top 50 all-time road trip and travel songs guaranteed to be the soundtrack for unforgettable journeys near and far.

This travel playlist is made possible by the adventurous team at Volario. We love to travel. 

#1 Travel Song – Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

With its sweeping choruses about “almost heaven” in West Virginia, John Denver’s iconic folk song evokes feelings of longing for home and connection to special places. The acoustic guitar pairs perfectly with lyrics reminiscing about “older times there,” making it a nostalgic road trip classic. This song was inspired by driving through the rural landscapes of West Virginia, Denver’s home state, and the songwriting process exemplifies how travel can spark creativity. With its warm, inviting lyrics and melody, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” will make any driver feel right at home on the open road.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vrEljMfXYo

#2 Drive by Incubus 

Incubus’ mellow rock song celebrates the thrill of spontaneous road trips with no destination in sight. Lyrics like “Whatever tomorrow brings, I’ll be there” capture the free spirit of driving off into the horizon for adventure and discovery. Its laidback vibe is ideal for cruising down the highway. The steady drumbeat mimics the pace of the pavement passing beneath the car, while lyrical references to finding inner peace on the open road make this track the perfect companion for a contemplative desert drive. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgT9zGkiLig

#3 Going Mobile by The Who

With its references to “trucking on through the night” and escaping city life, this Who classic encapsulates the appeal of RVing and van life. Its energetic rock melodies will keep you energized no matter how many miles you log. The counterculture spirit of the song’s lyrics taps into the freedom of living a mobile lifestyle, while the catchy chorus is easy to sing along to on any long haul. Though written in 1971, “Going Mobile” still rings true in the age of #vanlife and modern nomads.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5niDfvANik

#4 Road Trippin’ by Red Hot Chili Peppers

This mellow, psychedelic rock track by the Red Hot Chili Peppers is the perfect accompaniment for driving through the desert. With lyrics musing about beautiful skies and the open road, it captures the essence of what road trip daydreams are made of. The soft vocals paired with the melodic guitar make for a soothing yet energetic soundtrack to life on the move.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11GYvfYjyV0

#5 Truckin’ by Grateful Dead

A classic rock anthem celebrating life on the road, Truckin’ by the Grateful Dead will get your wheels spinning and give you the momentum to log as many miles as possible. Upbeat piano and guitar mimic the steady rhythm of driving, while the lyrics paint a vivid picture of roaming with no particular place to go. This 1970 hit makes any road trip feel like a carefree adventure.  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pafY6sZt0FE

#6 I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

With its rapid-fire lyrics listing cities all across North America, this country music gem will make you want to hit the road and check your own travel map. Johnny Cash’s distinctive voice gives this song an infectious energy, while the lyrics inspire dreams of an epic cross-country road trip. Pair it with driving through sprawling rural landscapes. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ov4epAJRPMw

#7 Drive My Car by The Beatles

Leave it to The Beatles to capture the pure joy and freedom of driving with this upbeat, infectious rock song. The playful lyrics and catchy melody will have you singing along as you cruise down the highway with the windows down. Paul McCartney’s lively bass line mimics the foot tapping accelerator while the lyrics parallel driving with journeying through life.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3NxaUHonJ8

#8 Ramblin’ Man by The Allman Brothers

With its southern rock rhythms and lyrics celebrating being born a “ramblin’ man,” this Allman Brothers hit encapsulates the restless spirit of road warriors. The infectious guitar solos and bluesy vocals will keep you cruising for miles down two-lane highways in search of new destinations and adventure. It’s the perfect pumping soundtrack for chasing freedom on the road.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=–Xqh3zJD3o

#9 Leaving on a Jet Plane by Peter, Paul and Mary 

With its gentle acoustic guitar and lyrics about having to board a flight already, this folk classic by Peter, Paul and Mary evokes the bittersweet emotions that come with saying goodbye and is one of the most played travel songs of all time. Its melancholy yet comforting melody makes it the perfect soundtrack for staring out plane windows and contemplating life’s journeys.  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4hsC0nRvZM

#10 Highway to Hell by AC/DC

Turn up this hard rock anthem by AC/DC to get your pulse racing from wheels up to touchdown. The explosive guitar riffs and high energy vocals are the ideal airport playlist addition to set the mood for adventure before takeoff. With its lyrics alluding to breaking loose, this highway in the skies will take you somewhere thrilling.  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l482T0yNkeo

#11 Life Is A Highway by Tom Cochrane

With lyrics celebrating life as a speeding highway, Tom Cochrane’s early 90s road trip rock anthem will get your wheels spinning. Its feel-good chorus and mixture of piano and guitar make for an infectious soundtrack to synchronize with the stripes on the road. For driving with the windows down and volume up, this song is a go-to.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3sMjm9Eloo

#12 Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey

A driving playlist staple, Journey’s 1981 arena rock anthem is the perfect companion for long stretches of road. Its crescendoing melody mimics the momentum of travel, while lyrics about persisting through troubled times strike an uplifting chord. The familiar piano intro will kickstart dreams of seeking fortune and adventure outside suburbia.  Is there a better 80s travel song for the rock genre?

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k8craCGpgs

#13 Born to Be Wild by Steppenwolf

With its pulsing guitar riffs and “heavy metal thunder” lyrics, this 1968 rock classic encapsulates the thrilling call of the open road. The hard edge guitar paired with lyrics about escaping to the wilderness creates an energetic ode to freedom and adventure. Crank it up for an adrenaline rush behind the wheel.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egMWlD3fLJ8

#14 Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen

With its driving melody and lyrics celebrating escaping suburban life, Bruce Springsteen’s 1975 rock anthem is the perfect pump-up soundtrack for open highway. The energetic drums and guitar solo capture the adrenaline rush of running to something new and never looking back. It’s the ideal road trip song for feeling young and free on the move. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3t9SfrfDZM

#15 Homeward Bound by Simon & Garfunkel

Simon & Garfunkel’s mellow 1965 folk tune is filled with longing and revelation after time spent far from home. The gentle guitar and poetic lyrics like “I wish I was homeward bound” evoke sentimental feelings about returning to familiar comforts. Its melancholy yet soothing melody makes it the perfect flying home soundtrack. One of the most relaxing travel songs for those long and bumpy flights.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7z9wd9bS1FM

#16 Take It Easy by Eagles

With its laidback vibe and lyrics about taking life slow, this Eagles’ 1972 classic encapsulates the carefree spirit of California road trips. Easy acoustic guitar combined with Glenn Frey’s mellow vocals make for a sunshine-soaked soundtrack perfect for cruising the Pacific Coast Highway.  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0ylSUsel3w

#17 Walkin’ After Midnight by Patsy Cline

Patsy Cline’s haunting 1957 country ballad taps into late night driving emotions, with lyrics about walking solo with the moon. Her smooth, lush vocals paired with steady percussion will keep you company cruising the loneliest highways long after dark.  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsRNCvHXHHU

#18 Wherever I May Roam by Metallica

Metallica’s heavy metal 1992 ode to wandering will fuel your inner outlier soul. This travel song evokes thundering drums and imagery of journeying across lands. “Wherever I may roam” capture the essence of footloose, uninhibited exploration by land, sea or air.  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMqNFAU0tOw

#19 – 500 Miles by The Hooters 

The Hooters’ upbeat, optimistic folk rock tune is about cherishing time spent traveling with loved ones. The twangy guitar and lyrics celebrating “500 miles” logged epitomize the shared joy and bonding that comes from road tripping together. It’s a feel-good classic for singing along with companions.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tC67RQiJwzY

#20 Blue Highways by William Least Heat-Moon

In this atmospheric folk melody by William Least Heat-Moon, acoustic guitar blends seamlessly with natural sounds of frogs croaking and birds calling. Lyrics like “Can’t you feel it growing, everything so alive” capture the magic of exploring off-the-beaten path places. It’s the perfect tune for getting lost on backroads.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wh3t49NsWBA

#21 California Dreamin’ by The Mamas & The Papas

As an ode to the Golden State’s sunny skies and laidback vibes, this 1960s hit by The Mamas & The Papas encapsulates the feeling of California dreamin’ from afar. Its folky harmonies and imagery of warm weather will transport you to the ultimate west coast road trip.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhZULM69DIw

#22 Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie by Red Hot Chili Peppers

The Red Hot Chili Peppers deliver good times vibes with this funk rock song celebrating a free spirited, fun loving character. With its super energetic rhythm and lyrics about enjoying the ride, it’s the perfect get-psyched song for the start of any adventure.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtBbinpK5XI

#23 Keep On Truckin’ – Hot Tuna

Hot Tuna’s foot-stomping, fast-picked 1973 folk rock tune will keep you truckin’ down the highway. Songs celebrating the truck driver lifestyle pair perfectly with long hauls and road warrior mentality. The lively guitar and harmonica capture the restless motion of life on the move.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yzbaHIel47M

#24 Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight – The Oak Ridge Boys 

This melancholy country song tells the story of a heartbroken man fleeing his Louisiana home in search of mending. The Oak Ridge Boys’ soaring harmonies give it an emotional weight that taps into complex feelings about leaving behind the familiar.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yHvwtqbGIU

#25 Window Seat – Erykah Badu

In this smooth R&B tune, Erykah Badu daydreams about destination-less travel while longing to get away. Her soulful voice paired with mellow beats is the perfect soundtrack for staring out airplane windows and contemplating life’s journey.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRXaXE1nQ8Q

#26 Cruise – Florida Georgia Line

Florida Georgia Line’s 2012 country pop anthem turned a small town summer love song into a cross-genre hit. Lyrics about cruising down backroads with that special someone pair perfectly with windows-down drives into the sunset. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PvebsWcpto

#27 Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes – George Jones

Country legend George Jones asks who will become the next generation of legends across Nashville, Detroit and Motown. The piano and Jones’ iconic voice give it an earnest, nostalgic tone perfect for contemplating the passage of eras.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1HeYNcWMwo

#28 California Stars – Billy Bragg & Wilco 

Take an epic musical journey with Wilco’s “California Stars” from their 1998 album Mermaid Avenue. This folksy foot-tapper sets Woody Guthrie’s timeless lyrics about the Golden State’s beauty to upbeat strumming and heavenly harmonies. Whimsical verses about orchards, canyons, and constellations evoke California’s scenic glories and starry nights in vivid detail. The official video features scenic tour visuals worthy of this ode’s lyrics, from rippling redwoods and sun-drenched valleys to surfer-dotted shores. Cue it up on your next Pacific Highway One road trip or as the soundtrack to West Coast wanderlust dreams. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxzMbAMO73k

#29 Paradise City by Guns N’ Roses

With its hard rock guitar riffs and axel Rose’s powerful vocals, this 1980s metal anthem is perfect for rolling down the highway at full speed chasing dreams. Lyrics about the “grass being green” and girls being pretty capture the hope for a bright future paradise ahead. Crank up this adrenaline-pumping song when you need motivation.  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rbm6GXllBiw

#30 On The Road Again by Willie Nelson

Country legend Willie Nelson captures the appeal of life on the road in this relaxed 1980 hit. His smooth voice and steady rhythm guitar pair perfectly with images of can’t-wait-to-get-moving-again wanderlust. Upbeat yet mellow, it’s the quintessential soundtrack for anticipating the next journey around the bend.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBN86y30Ufc

#31 Drive All Night by Bruce Springsteen

In this epic rock ballad, Bruce Springsteen sings about persevering through the night for love. The full band sound turns this into an energizing late-night driving companion. For staying alert on long empty roads, this dramatic, heartfelt Springsteen song really hits the spot. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3eu1gW-bQ8

#32 Take The Long Way Home by Supertramp

With lyrics about avoiding the typical interstate route, Supertramp’s 1970s hit captures the appeal of meandering backroad drives. The mix of piano and guitars gives it a steady, uplifting rhythm perfect for prolonged scenic detours. It’s the ideal off-the-beaten-path road trip soundtrack.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVmVxvmAMBA

#33 Runnin’ Down a Dream by Tom Petty

The urgent guitar opening of this Tom Petty classic kicks off an adrenaline-filled rock ode to chasing ambitions without abandon. Anthemic melodies capture the momentum of running towards destiny before time runs out. Crank it up and “let the music take you there.”

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1D3a5eDJIs

#34 Breakfast in America by Supertramp 

This upbeat folk rock tune celebrates the optimism and prosperity of post-war America with tongue-in-cheek lyrics about dining on “bubble gum and ice cream.” The mix of piano, guitars and horns has an infectious energy perfect for cruising down sunny main streets.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzaW0E7uRwc

#35 Highwayman by The Highwaymen

Country supergroup The Highwaymen sing an epic tale of reincarnation through four different lives working on the open road and untamed frontier. Their stellar vocals blend seamlessly to give the song an old soul, making it the ideal soundtrack for traversing the vast beauty of the American landscape. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFkcAH-m9E0

#36 America by Simon & Garfunkel

Simon & Garfunkel pay homage to journeying across the country via Greyhound bus in this beloved folk song with colorful lyrics about the country’s natural splendor. The gentle harmonies and acoustic melody capture the writers’ optimism and youth.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eo2ZsAOlvEM

#37 Should’ve Been a Cowboy by Toby Keith

Toby Keith laments everyday struggles in this 1990s country song, believing life would be simpler living as a cowboy riding the range out west. The driving percussion and Keith’s signature vocals make it an energetic ode to escaping into wide open spaces.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldQrapQ4d0Y

#38 Map of the World – Telepopmusik

This mellow, jazzy electronic tune has a global feel with French vocals over relaxing trip-hop beats. It’s the perfect soundtrack for staring out plane windows and contemplating how we’re all connected citizens of the world. The atmospheric vibe matches high-flying perspective.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRzsEO6UWr0

#39 Truckin’ – Dead & Company

In this live version, Dead & Company revisit the Grateful Dead’s classic ode to life on the road with an extended 17-minute jam. Twangy blues guitars capture the restless motion of westward wanderin’ trucking culture. It’s a road warrior’s delight.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6G53BPX6Ow

#40 Take the A Train – Duke Ellington

Jazz standard “Take the A Train” musically mimics the rhythmic clatter of a subway ride uptown to Harlem in NYC. Uptempo swing horns transport listeners to the bustling sounds of the big city. Pair it with any transit-centric travel for big metro energy. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRGFqSkNjHk

#41 Against the Wind by Bob Seger

In this roots rock classic, Bob Seger soulfully sings about persisting through life’s challenges. The melancholy tone captures complicated feelings about moving forward. With imagery of standing against the wind, it’s perfect for introspective drives into the unknown.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm4wtvr1tEw

#42 Time to Move On by Tom Petty

Tom Petty celebrates leaving small town life behind in this upbeat rock tune with a driving beat. Energetic guitars and Petty’s signature vocals capture the triumphant excitement of moving on to bigger dreams and freedom. It’ll get your wheels spinning faster down the highway. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QT96v3-4I9Q

#43 Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty

Tom Petty paints a poetic picture of a restless romantic living life without strings attached in this beloved 1989 hit. The steady, driving rhythm and Petty’s clipped vocals capture the essence of an endless summer road trip with the highway to freedom stretched out ahead.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lWJXDG2i0A

#44 Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz

In this mellow rock song with psychedelic grooves, Lenny Kravitz sings sweetly about escaping with a loved one and flying away together. The laidback vibe captures the carefree bliss of road trips with that special someone. Kravitz’s smooth vocals paired with the steady drum beats and mellow guitar create a soothing sonic landscape perfect for cruising into the sunset, feeling completely content and at peace.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8t-iFr9q1I8

#45 Southbound by Allman Brothers Band

With improvisational guitar jams and lyrics about heading south, this 1976 blues rock song by the Allman Brothers Band turns any drive into an epic adventure. The uptempo, foot-tapping rhythm mimics the excitement of the open road ahead. Duane Allman’s legendary guitar work shines in this tune.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7j02m-EK-vI

#46 Naive Melody (This Must Be The Place) by Talking Heads 

This art pop song features David Byrne’s signature eccentric vocals over gorgeous melodies singing quirkily about finding the perfect place to call home. The atmospheric vibe evokes the comforting feeling of returning home after travels to unfamiliar lands. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HldHtBxNK6k

#47 Kokomo by The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys bring laidback tropical vibes with this 1960s surf pop ode to a fictional island getaway named Kokomo. Upbeat steel drums will transport you to white sand beaches and blue seas. It captures fantasies of island escapes we all long for.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNZVzIfJlY4

#48 I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash 

With its rapid-fire lyrics listing cities all across North America, this country music gem will make you want to hit the road and check your own travel map. Johnny Cash’s distinctive voice gives this song an infectious energy, while the lyrics inspire dreams of an epic cross-country road trip. Pair it with driving through sprawling rural landscapes.

#49 Let’s Go Crazy by Prince

The opening rock guitar riff to this 1984 Purple Rain single launches into a funky ode to reckless abandon on the dance floor by Prince. Anthemic energy paired with lyrics to “give in to the call of the wild” make it the perfect pump-up soundtrack before embarking on any big adventure.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXJhDltzYVQ

#50 Open Road Song by Eve6

Energetic power pop guitars kick off this ode to leaving worries behind and reveling in the freedom of the wide open road ahead. Eve6’s driving rock rhythms capture the carefree spirit of road trips with no particular destination in sight. An upbeat, youthful celebration of exploration.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgrj_IXuEGY

The top 50 travel songs of all time – the complete list

1. Take Me Home, Country Roads – John Denver

2. Drive – Incubus  

3. Going Mobile – The Who

4. Road Trippin’ – Red Hot Chili Peppers

5. Truckin’ – Grateful Dead  

6. I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash

7. Drive My Car – The Beatles

8. Ramblin’ Man – The Allman Brothers

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

10. Highway to Hell – AC/DC

11. Life Is A Highway – Tom Cochrane 

12. Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey

13. Born to Be Wild – Steppenwolf

14. Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen

15. Homeward Bound – Simon & Garfunkel   

16. Take It Easy – Eagles

17. Walkin’ After Midnight – Patsy Cline

18. Wherever I May Roam – Metallica

19. 500 Miles – The Hooters

20. Blue Highways – William Least Heat-Moon

21. California Dreamin’ – The Mamas & The Papas

22. Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie – Red Hot Chili Peppers

23. Keep On Truckin’ – Hot Tuna

24. Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight – The Oak Ridge Boys

25. Window Seat – Erykah Badu

26. Cruise – Florida Georgia Line

27. Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes – George Jones

28. Road Trippin’ – Gwen Stefani

29. Paradise City – Guns N’ Roses

30. On The Road Again – Willie Nelson

31. Drive All Night – Bruce Springsteen   

32. Take The Long Way Home – Supertramp

33. Runnin’ Down a Dream – Tom Petty

34. Breakfast in America – Supertramp

35. Highwayman – The Highwaymen

36. America – Simon & Garfunkel

37. Should’ve Been a Cowboy – Toby Keith

38. Map of the World – Telepopmusik

39. Truckin’ – Dead & Company 

40. Take the A Train – Duke Ellington

41. Against the Wind – Bob Seger

42. Time to Move On – Tom Petty

43. Free Fallin’ – Tom Petty

44. Fly Away – Lenny Kravitz

45. Southbound – Allman Brothers Band 

46. Naive Melody (This Must Be The Place) – Talking Heads

47. Kokomo – The Beach Boys

48. I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash

49. Let’s Go Crazy – Prince

50. Open Road Song – Eve6

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The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist According to Travelers, Editors, and Spotify

This year has been nothing short of a whirlwind. As we wrap up the year, international travel is still a no go, and flying in general seems like a bit of a risky proposition. As a result, the humble road trip has roared back on our collective radar as many of us have been taking to the road as a way to get out of the house and explore our surroundings near and far. 

When we began discussing road trips on zoom calls and in Slack channels, the one thing that everyone could agree on was that music was essential. A good soundtrack can mean the difference between the hours flying by as fast as the scenery out the window or turning around before you reach your destination.

So what makes a great road trip playlist? It starts with the songs, but with so many incredible choices out there, it’s hard to whittle down to something that stands up to the test of time. However, we had an idea.

To make the perfect road trip playlist, we used three components. First, we looked at Spotify data to identify the most popular songs for driving, according to the top 100 road trip playlists. Next, we surveyed our TripSavvy readers to get their take. After that, our editors weighed in on their favorite songs. In the end, we were left with 29 carefully curated high-vibe songs that create the ultimate travel music of 2020.

Here are the top road trip songs. For the best listening experience, try playing them in order. Enjoy!

"Wake Me Up" by Avicii

Released in 2013, “Wake Me Up” made history by becoming the first song on Spotify to accumulate 200 million streams. This song can instantly put you in a good mood and that's why it's up first on our list.

"Night Moves" by Bob Seger

"Night Moves" is an easy-listening, American Rock classic. "Rolling Stone" magazine named it Single of the Year in 1977. This song is sure to get you in the right headspace for hitting the highway.

"Fly Like an Eagle" by Steve Miller Band

As suggested by one of our readers, "Fly Like an Eagle" was a must-have for this playlist. Even though this psychedelic-rock tune was released in 1976, it still feels relevant today.

Feed the babies Who don't have enough to eat Shoe the children With no shoes on their feet House the people Livin' in the street Oh, oh, there's a solution

"I Feel It Coming" by The Weeknd featuring Daft Punk

As suggested by one of our readers, "I Feel It Coming" is a sensual disco-pop song by The Weeknd and Daft Punk. When you play it, this catchy song will make you instinctively bob along as you're on the road.

"Cruise" by Florida Georgia Line

A song that appears on the Spotify list and was submitted by a reader is "Cruise" by Florida Georgia Line. This upbeat country song will make you wanna roll the windows down and cruise.

"Take It Easy" by the Eagles

After hours of driving, "Don't let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy," might be the best advice you'll get. Released in 1972, "Take It Easy" by the Eagles is still being played by road trippers, appearing 20 times across the top 100 playlists.

"Riptide" by Vance Joy

"Riptide," the 2013 single by Australian singer-songwriter Vance Joy, appears on 13 of the top 100 road trip Spotify playlists. This cheery folk song won the World Music Award for World’s Best Song.

"Old Town Road (Remix)" by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus

In 2019 Lil Nas X released "Old Town Road," a country rap remix with Billy Ray Cyrus. It won lots of awards, so it's no wonder that this was a top contender.

"Malibu" by Miley Cyrus

"This song reminds me of a road trip down the west coast from San Francisco to San Diego," says Megan Hartig, Content Marketing Manager. We booked our hotels on the fly with the app Hotel Tonight which was great for spontaneous travel."

"Life in the Fast Lane" by Eagles

You can't listen to "Life in the Fast Lane" without feeling like a badass. This song was on 13 of the top road trip playlists on Spotify. But don't lose your cool as this lyric points out: Life in the fast lane, Surely makes you lose your mind.

Listening to this song can give you a lead foot. Don't get a speeding ticket!

"Hey, Soul Sister" by Train

If you've never sung "Hey, Soul Sister" at the top of your lungs, have you ever been on a road trip? Not according to Spotify listeners. This song appeared 16 times according to Spotify data.

"September" by Earth, Wind & Fire

"I grew up listening to a lot of Earth, Wind & Fire with my parents during road trips," says associate editor Sherri Gardner. "'September' was one of my family’s favorites because it’s fun to sing along to, especially with the windows down."

"Burn The House Down" by AJR

Another great suggestion by one of our readers, "Burn The House Down" written by the pop trio consisting of three brothers, began as a 2018 song about U.S. political climate and became the theme song for the March for Our Lives campaign.

"Carry On Wayward Son" by Kansas

If you're struggling to hang in during your long drive, turn up "Carry On Wayward Son" a little louder for some encouragement. This progressive rock song performed by Kansas in 1976 took the band to the next level.

"Dancing In The Moonlight" by Jubël featuring NEIMY

"Dancing In The Moonlight" was named nine times in the top 100 Spotify road trip playlists. This 2018 feel-good pop cover is sure to lift your spirits with its upbeat rhythm, especially if you are driving after the sun goes down.

"Road Trip (2020 Version)" by Convent Bonfires

This song was suggested by one of our readers, and given the title, we had to include it. This obscure, indie-rock track released this year gives us all the good vibes.

"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey

With almost one billion streams on Spotify, it's no surprise "Don't Stop Believin'" cracks the top 3, with 24 appearances on Spotify's top road trip playlists. So next time you're in your car, turn up the volume and sing on and on and on and on.

"Circles" by Post Malone

Another song listed on the Spotify charts and our reader survey is "Circles" by Post Malone. This 2019 pop single won Song of the Year at the 2020 MTV Video Music Awards. It sat for a record 39 weeks in the Hot 100's top 10.

"Feel This Good" by Jackopierce

Another reader's choice, "Feel This Good" by musical duo Jackopierce is an easy listening song for the freeway.

Woke up this morning, rolled out of bed My favorite song's playing inside my head I go out on the freeway, windows down Don't know where I'm going, but it's good to move around and Days like this should never end

"Big Yellow Taxi" by Lennon & Maisy

Canadian sisters, Lennon and Maisy Stella, do a beautiful cover of the classic song "Big Yellow Taxi" originally sung by Joni Mitchell.

"Shotgun (The Wild Remix)" by George Ezra & The Wild

Whoever gets to ride shotgun is sure to enjoy this 2018 song by George Ezra featuring The Wild. "Shotgun" was listed on both the Spotify and readers' choice lists.

"Layla" by Eric Clapton

The acoustic rock song "Layla" was suggested by readers and found on six of the top Spotify road trip playlists. Hailed as one of the most iconic classic rock ballads of all time, there is no surprise it belongs here.

"Higher Love" by Kygo & Whitney Houston

This version of "Higher Love" produced by Norwegian DJ Kygo and the late Whitney Houston is a tropical, high-energy song that was number two on the Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart.

"Free Fallin'" by Tom Petty

"I grew up listening to Tom Petty (he was my first concert), and he's still one of my all-time favorite musicians," says senior editor Jamie Hergenrader. "Free Fallin' is worthy of a road trip playlist because it embodies the vibe of the trip—you're out on the open road, free to explore, and the lyrics even mention or hint at several classic L.A. routes, such as Ventura Boulevard, Highway 101, and Mulholland Drive."

"More Than a Feeling" by Boston

Is there a song that reminds you of your secret crush? Apparently someone in the band Boston had one, and that inspired their hit song "More Than a Feeling." Spotify users can relate. The song shows up on 22 road trip playlists, making it the fourth most popular on our Spotify list.

"Hello Darlin'" by Conway Twitty

“In the car, there’s nothing better than classic country," says Astrid Taran, senior audience editor. "There’s something about driving in the middle of nowhere blasting old school country.”

"Fast Car" by Jonas Blue & Dakota

"Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman was listed 10 times on Spotify's list, but we included a remix by Jonas Blue & Dakota to keep things fresh and upbeat to keep things interesting along the ride.

"Sun Models" by ODESZA featuring Madelyn Grant

"This song feels like the perfect soundtrack for a road trip and makes everything feel a little more epic," says visual editor Taylor McIntyre.

"Jack & Diane" by John Mellencamp

Last but certainly not least, here we have a classic rock ballad by John Mellencamp. "Jack & Diane" was released in the summer of 1982 and has been a go-to by road trippers ever sense, appearing 10 times in the Spotify road trip lists.

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Songs for Vacation Videos: The Best Music for Your Travel Edit

Jul 31, 2023

Posted by: Grace Oborne

How to find the music best fits travel videos

Music and song play crucial roles in shaping and creating video memories. It has the ability to evoke emotions, it enhance storytelling, sets the mood, and triggers memories, making the experience more meaningful and cherished.

Emotional Resonance

For many, songs and their lyrics have the unique power to connect to our emotions. The lyrics may trigger something meaningful, the melody and pace of the song may intensify the impact the video memory.

More than that, the right music makes the moments that were captured more vivid, provoking profound feelings within the viewers of your travel videos.

Enhanced Storytelling

Music acts as tool for storytelling in video memories. The best songs are when the lyrics of the song complement the visuals and narrative, which ultimately guide you or your audience emotions and help to grasp the underlying themes or messages.

If you use the right song for travel videos, a simple sequence could easily become compelling and unforgettable.

Mood Setting

It's no secret that music sets the mood for different atmospheres. Music also sets the mood for video memories.

Whether it's a joyous, upbeat tune for celebrations, or a quieter, reflective melody for contemplative moments, music makes the viewing experience more immersive.

When your travel video memories are shared with others, it's guaranteed that the music will enhance the shared experience. It fosters a sense of unity and understanding between viewers.

Memory Trigger

Music has the ability to trigger memories. How many time have you heard a song and have been reminded of a memory?

When you revisit your video memories with the original music, it'll instantly transport you back in time to the adventure or vacation you were on.

Let's use the joyous, upbeat tune as an example. Let's imagine that while you are camping, your friend pulls out his guitar and begins to play a song.

Fast forward, incorporating said song into your recap video, will trigger the memories of everyone gathered around at the camp site, listening to this song.

When you all watch that camping travel video, and recall the song, you'll be reminded of the memories you all share.

This is exactly why it's important to find the best travel songs or the right songs for your adventure videos.

Completeness

It isn't often recognized that music truly takes on every role; even the role of completeness. Similar to a cinematic movie with a soundtrack, travel videos or video memories in general, benefit from songs.

Music, like background music, fills the gaps, adds depth and emotion to visuals, and never leave dead space.

What are your options for legal music for your travel video?

If you plan to share your travel video on social media, use it for commercial purposes, or stream it for public viewing, it really is important to make sure that you have the legal right to use the music in your video.

Copyright Music

Using copyrighted music without permission can inevitably lead to many issues such as

your travel video being blocked

your travel video taken down

or even more seriously, you could facing legal consequences

Commercial music is protected by copyright laws.

This means you need explicit permission from the copyright holders to use it without any legal consequences and this typically involves obtaining two different copyright licenses:

a master use license for the actual sound recording

a composition license that protects the subsequent musical composition.

Obtaining these copyright licenses can be a very difficult process because you need to directly contact the copyright holders, which could include the artist, composer, record label, or music producer.

With royalty free music, you only need to pay for the music license once, and no further royalty fees are required. Seems easy? Well it is.

Many providers offer royalty free music and handle the necessary licensing fees on your behalf, which leads you to only pay a one-time fee, or you can choose a monthly or annual subscription to access and use the music legally.

Some of these sites and providers offer royalty free music for free, but only if you give credit to the artist when using or posting the music (on youtube or social media).

This way, you can find suitable music for your travel videos without the complexities and legal concerns associated with copyrighted music.

There are the legal options for using music in your adventure videos without the need to track down copyright holders directly:

Royalty Free Music

As mentioned, this type of music is provided by a service that takes care of the licensing fees. When you use royalty free music, you won't face royalties each time you incorporate it into your video.

Typically, you pay a one-time fee or subscribe to gain unlimited access to the music libraries.

Public Domain Music

Music published before 1927 falls into the public domain category. This means that the copyright has essentially expired. You have unlimited access to this music legally and free of charge without the need for a license or needing to give credit.

Creative Commons Licensed Music

This is music that is released under Creative Commons licenses is free to use legally, provided you give credit to the artist or creator.

Personally Created Music :

If you produce, compose or create your own music, you own the rights to it. Simple as that. This means, not only is it free music, but you're allowed you to use it in your travel videos as you wish.

Where can I download legal music?

Asides from copyrighted music, there are numerous service providers that offer royalty free and copyright-free music that you can legally download and use in your travel videos. There a reputable free and paid options.

Free Service Options

Public Domain 4U : Offer music that is free and available in the public domain.

incompetech : Offers royalty free music that you can use for free with proper credit to the creator or artist

Bensound: Provides eligible music for free download when you credit Bensound.

Paid Service Options

Artlist : A library of royalty free music accessible through a paid subscription for unlimited use The paid subscriptions are offered in different packages, starting at “Max Social” for $29.99 per month.

Soun d stripe : Offers unlimited access to their music library with a paid subscription starting at $9.99 per month.

PremiumBeat by Shutterstock : Offers tracks from a large library for a one-time fee purchase. 

Beyond this list, many royalty free music providers will most likely offer free trials to help you assess the service's value before committing. Afterward, most operate on a monthly or annual subscription basis.

On average, a monthly subscription ranges from $10 to $20. Choosing to go with an annual subscription and paying upfront often leads to a slightly reduced monthly cost.

Alternatively, some services offer one-time fees for individual tracks. Prices can vary significantly, starting as low as $1 per track and reaching up to a few hundred dollars per track.

Can I use any songs for my travel videos?

The short and logistical answer is no, and this is simply because of the copyright issue we just went in depth on.

If you're posting your travel video to youtube, then no. If it's just for you and your family to watch in the privacy of your own homes, then yes.

Past that, if we're talking about using any song in terms of the aesthetic and the vibe of your travel videos, then the answer is yes. The world of the music library is your oyster.

List of songs for travel videos and why we recommend them

In light of it being summer, we know travel is picking up, and what does that mean? Travel videos!

We have a list of what we think are the best songs for travel to incorporate into your travel video, but make sure that past this blog, you're actually able to use them!

Wake Me Up - Avicii

Avicii is known for creating cool travel songs for video recaps. "Wake Me Up" is a great song for a travel video because not only is it upbeat, but it has universal appeal.

This means that it has catchy melody that is enjoyable for a broader audience. It's beats transcends cultural and age barriers for everyone to enjoy.

The song can enhance your video and make it more engaging for audiences from various backgrounds.

This song has a fun rhythm and beats that provide a natural pace for any travel video and will naturally sync well with different travel scenes and activities.

Paris - The Chainsmokers

"Paris" is perfect for travel videos because of its dreamy vibes, which are well-suited for travel videos.

I mean... imagine you went to Paris with your significant other and editing a travel video and this song is playing as the background music. It sets a captivating tone and adds feeling wanderlust.

It also enhances the emotional connection, making the visuals more captivating for viewers of all ages.

Travelin' Man - Ricky Nelson

This song, released in 1961, offers nostalgia, excitement, and is the right song for storytelling in travel videos.

For instance, "Travelin' Man" immediately hits the travel theme spot on with it's title. More than that, it's lyrics reinforce exploration and adventure. "I'm a travelin' man and I've made a lot of stops. All over the world"

The song's lyrics tell the story of a man's path to different places. This storytelling element can enhance the viewer's experience by complementing the clips of the travel video.

It's also a song that is on the quieter side, making it great as background music.

Sleep On The Floor - The Lumineers

Now, speaking personally, this is my favorite travel song and the Lumineers truly create great music.

"Sleep On The Floor" Overall, brings a sense of adventure through it's rhythm and melody. The thing to notice about the song though is that it brings emotional depth and versatility to travel videos.

The lyrics speak of adventure and the desire to explore new places. It encourages those who listen to embark on their own journeys.

That's where the emotional depth comes in. The song can foster a strong connection with visuals of a travel video, and can enhance a viewer's experience of travel.

Renegades - X Ambassadors

"Renegades" is a song that exhibits a youthful and adventurous, and road trip vibe, which is the right music for younger travellers to use.

Speaking of youthful, I'm reminded of popularity. This song was a commercial success and gained popularity worldwide, therefore, it's recognition can make any travel video more memorable.

The song has an upbeat energy that provides excitement. It uplifts the mood and makes one feel "free" in a way. I think it's safe to say that this song would fit well for a road trip travel video.

Just picture blue skies, sunny day, friends, it's summer, you're on an open road and you hit the play button...what an epic travel experience!

Road Trippin' - Red Hot Chili Peppers

Speaking of a road trip, this next song title says it all!

"Road Trippin" brings feeling of desired adventure, chill vibes, and positivity to travel videos, making it an ideal choice for creators looking to showcase the freedom of road trips and travel experiences.

The song's mellow and laid-back ambiance complements the leisurely pace of road trips and travel. It makes for a relaxed and carefree atmosphere.

This will enhance the viewer's experience of the travel video that is made of this road trip.

It's feel-good vibe will create a joyous and happy feeling while watching your travel video.

Vacation - Thomas Rhett

Do you feel like dancing or snapping your fingers? Listen to Thomas Rhett talk about what a vacation should be like!

But for real, let's talk about the timing of this song. It's upbeat, fast, and timely. It's easy to align clips from your own adventure to this song. It's catchy and dance-worthy beats will make it easy for anyone to watch your video over and over again.

Also, the song's title and lyrics are on point with regards to the theme of vacation and travel, making it a natural fit for travel videos.

Adventure Of A Lifetime - Coldplay

If you don't know Coldplay, you're definitely living under a rock, and if you listen to their music, then you're living life!

Coldplay's music is well known and they have songs perfect as travel music. Hear me out, Coldplay's popularity is to viewers of different ages and backgrounds. Using "Adventure Of A Lifetime" can help your travel video resonate with a diverse audience.

The song's catchy and memorable chorus says, "Turn your magic on, to me she'd say, everything you want's a dream away."

These lyrics definitely add quality to the travel video and can leave an impression on you and your audience and resonate with their own aspirations for travel and adventure.

On Top Of The World - Imagine Dragons

"On Top of The World" just has the overall feel-good feeling. It's not like most songs for travel videos, because this type of feel-good includes the idea of freedom, life, hope, wonder and feeling on top of the world when travelling.

The song's feel-good nature is bound to uplift your mood and will create a positive, emotional connection with the travel video. It'll enhance the overall viewing experience and will leave you and your viewers feeling SO happy.

Life Is A Highway - Rascal Flatts

"Life Is A Highway" is an iconic road trip song. Remember the movie Cars ? That's definitely the first thing memory I have when I think of this song.

It's worth mentioning that I think of the montage in the movie where Lightning McQueen is on a road trip to California, he's living his best life, he's a super star race car, and life truly feels like a highway; fast and adventurous!

It's lyrical meaning and message is also what makes this song for your travel video because it's about embracing life's journey and all its twists and turns. This will resonate with viewers from all walks of life, all generations.

It inspires optimism and appreciation for the experiences that travel brings.

Overwhelmed by all your song options?

Leave it to spivo video to choose the right song for your video, big jet plane - angus and julia stone.

This song is a little different, but in a great waym and has powerful features. "Big Jet Plane" is a song that is calming and has a mellow melody.

It creates a serene atmosphere, making it an the best accompaniment for capturing travel moments like scenic landscapes and peaceful getaways.

Additionally, it exhibits romantic and intimate vibes too. The song has lyrics that can add depth to your travel video, particularly when featuring travel experiences with loved ones or emphasizing the emotional connection to the places you have visited.

Travelin’ Band - Creedence Clearwater Revival

Your head will 100% be nodding and bouncing to this song when you hear it in your travel video!

"Travelin' Band" is a timeless classic, that exudes charm and is bound to make your travel video have a familiarity and connection vibe.

It is catchy and is widely known and appreciated, appealing to a broad range of audiences and will make your travel video more engaging for viewers of all ages.

The song's sing-along quality and infectious chorus create a fun and interactive experience, encouraging you and your audience to join in or tap their feet while enjoying the video.

Its energetic nature also makes it a perfect fit for montages of different travel experiences and destinations, while also seamlessly complementing any fast-paced editing of footage.

Barcelona - Ed Sheeran

Can you hear that? No, it's not the ad for travel insurance... it's Ed Sheeran . Not only is his voice and music serene, but his songs make for best travel songs.

His song makes specific references to Barcelona making it a perfect fit for your montage that feature the city of Barcelona or any other destination with a similar vibrant and lively atmosphere.

Ed Sheeran is popular so his music appeals to a broad audience, making "Barcelona" enjoyable for audiences of different ages and backgrounds, even if they are in fact from Barcelona.

It's also fair to say that the song has a cinematic quality that can enhance the visual storytelling of your video, making it more captivating

Budapest - George Ezra

"Budapest" a is an ideal recap video song because like others, its direct reference to a specific destination makes it a perfect fit for showcasing the beauty of Budapest or similar locations.

The song's lyrics about travel and experiencing new places can ignite wonder in viewers, encouraging them to plan their own adventures and travel memories.

Whether your video captures a solo, a romantic getaway, or a group exploration, the song seamlessly adapts to a variety of travel themes and would be perfect as background music for your travel's activities in your video.

Don't Stop Believin' - Journey

I bet you're on a midnight train listening to this song! "Don't Stop Believin" is iconic and is known by everyone, no matter where you are in the world.

The song's chorus, as memorable as it is, can leave a lasting impact on you and your audiences, enhancing the travel video's memorability and enjoyment.

The song serves as a feel-good anthem, giving viewers motivation and empowerment, and fostering a positive emotional connection with your video.

The song's themes are resilience and chasing dreams, which make it a fitting choice for any travel scenario, from backpacking to luxurious vacations.

Vienna - Billy Joel

"Vienna" is a fantastic song for your video for many reasons.

Its lyrics add emotional depth to the storytelling, leaving viewers feeling connected to your memories, and as a timeless classic, the song provokes feelings of nostalgia and appreciation, resonating with both new and seasoned travellers.

The track sets a mood for videos that explore vibrant cities with historical significance and cultural heritage, like Vienna. Its elegant and it's sound adds a touch of charm, complementing the city's aesthetics.

Overall, the song is a great choice for a video that needs a captivating experience to leave a lasting impact on you and your audience.

Collaborate with Spivo Video

If picking a song is overwhelming or if you don't want to deal with all the legal logistics of using music, consider Spivo Video .

Our team of professional video editors are ready to pick a song for your video that will make it unforgettable. We have a long list of royalty free music that one or two songs are guaranteed to fit perfectly with your video!

You can also upload your own music to us to incorporate in your video.

To see our music library, simply receive a quote , purchase the edit, and use the Dropbox provided to effortlessly upload your content files.

For examples of customer videos, make sure to check us out on TikTok and Instagram !

I'm sure all this talk about travel songs for travel videos is making you itch! Go on that adventure, but don't forget to collect video memories, send them to us, and pick a song!

Safe Travels!

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Good Songs For Travel Video Montage

[ad_1] When it comes to creating a captivating travel video montage, one of the most important elements to consider is the music. The right song can set the tone for your video, evoke emotions, and enhance the overall viewing experience. Whether you’re showcasing a road trip, a backpacking adventure, or a luxury vacation, choosing the perfect soundtrack is key to bringing your footage to life.

In 2024, there are countless songs that can work well for travel videos, but some stand out as particularly fitting for capturing the essence of exploration, discovery, and adventure. Here are nine good songs for travel video montages, along with interesting details about each:

1. “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons

This upbeat and uplifting song by Imagine Dragons is perfect for videos that showcase breathtaking landscapes, epic adventures, and moments of triumph. The catchy chorus and energetic beat will instantly elevate the mood of your travel montage, making it feel like a celebration of life on the road.

2. “Riptide” by Vance Joy

Vance Joy’s indie-folk hit “Riptide” is a feel-good tune that exudes a sense of freedom and wanderlust. Its laid-back vibe and catchy melody make it a great choice for videos that focus on carefree moments, spontaneous journeys, and spontaneous encounters with new people and places.

3. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay

“Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay is a powerful anthem that embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery. Its pulsing rhythm, soaring vocals, and euphoric chorus make it a great choice for videos that capture the excitement of embarking on a new adventure and experiencing the wonders of the world.

4. “I Lived” by OneRepublic

“I Lived” by OneRepublic is an inspiring and uplifting song that encourages listeners to live life to the fullest and seize every moment. Its empowering lyrics and anthemic chorus make it a perfect soundtrack for videos that celebrate personal growth, self-discovery, and the transformative power of travel.

5. “Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros

“Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros is a whimsical and heartfelt song that celebrates the idea of finding a sense of belonging and connection with others. Its joyful chorus and folksy vibe make it a great choice for videos that focus on the bonds formed during travel, the beauty of shared experiences, and the feeling of being at home wherever you go.

6. “Waves” by Mr. Probz (Robin Schulz Remix)

“Waves” by Mr. Probz, particularly the Robin Schulz remix, is a dreamy and atmospheric song that evokes the sensation of being swept away by the ebb and flow of life. Its hypnotic melody, soulful vocals, and chill vibe make it a great choice for videos that capture the serenity of beach destinations, the rhythm of the ocean, and the beauty of sunsets.

7. “Wild Child” by Kenny Chesney and Grace Potter

“Wild Child” by Kenny Chesney and Grace Potter is a country-rock ballad that celebrates the free-spirited and adventurous nature of a wanderer. Its twangy guitars, soulful vocals, and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect soundtrack for videos that showcase the thrill of the open road, the beauty of wide-open spaces, and the joy of living life on your own terms.

8. “The Nights” by Avicii

“The Nights” by Avicii is an anthemic and uplifting song that encourages listeners to embrace life’s challenges and make the most of every moment. Its driving beat, soaring vocals, and inspiring message make it a great choice for videos that highlight the resilience, determination, and spirit of adventure that define the travel experience.

9. “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors

“Best Day of My Life” by American Authors is a feel-good and infectious song that celebrates the joy and excitement of seizing the day and making unforgettable memories. Its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and positive lyrics make it a perfect soundtrack for videos that capture the magic of travel, the thrill of new experiences, and the beauty of living life to the fullest.

In addition to these nine songs, there are countless other tracks that can work well for travel video montages, depending on the mood, tone, and theme you want to convey. Whether you prefer indie-folk, pop, rock, electronic, or country music, there’s a perfect song out there to complement your footage and enhance the viewer’s experience.

Now that we’ve explored some good songs for travel video montages, let’s delve into some common questions that often arise when it comes to choosing the right music for your travel films:

1. How important is the music in a travel video montage?

The music in a travel video montage is crucial as it sets the tone, evokes emotions, and enhances the overall viewing experience. The right song can elevate your footage and bring it to life.

2. What factors should I consider when choosing music for my travel video?

Consider the mood, tone, and theme of your video, as well as the pace, energy, and emotion you want to convey. Choose a song that complements your footage and enhances the viewer’s experience.

3. How can I legally use music in my travel video montage?

To legally use music in your travel video montage, you can purchase a license from a music licensing platform, use royalty-free music, or choose songs from the YouTube Audio Library.

4. Can I use popular songs in my travel video montage?

Using popular songs in your travel video montage can be challenging due to copyright restrictions. Consider using royalty-free music or songs from the YouTube Audio Library to avoid legal issues.

5. How can I find the perfect song for my travel video montage?

Explore different genres, artists, and styles of music to find the perfect song that complements your footage and enhances the viewer’s experience. Experiment with different tracks until you find the right fit.

6. What are some tips for syncing music with my travel video montage?

Sync music with your travel video montage by matching the beats, tempo, and mood of the song with the visuals. Use cuts, transitions, and effects to enhance the rhythm and flow of your video.

7. How can I create a cohesive soundtrack for my travel video montage?

Create a cohesive soundtrack for your travel video montage by choosing songs that share a similar vibe, theme, or emotion. Consider the overall arc of your video and how each song contributes to the narrative.

8. What are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing music for my travel video montage?

Avoid using songs that are too distracting, too generic, or too cliche for your travel video montage. Choose music that enhances your footage and resonates with your audience.

9. How can I personalize my travel video montage with music?

Personalize your travel video montage with music by choosing songs that reflect your personality, tastes, and experiences. Use music to tell a story, evoke emotions, and create a memorable viewing experience.

10. Can I use instrumental music in my travel video montage?

Using instrumental music in your travel video montage can be a great way to create a cinematic, atmospheric, and immersive soundtrack that enhances the visuals and evokes emotions.

11. What are some popular music genres for travel video montages?

Popular music genres for travel video montages include indie-folk, pop, rock, electronic, and country music. Choose a genre that complements your footage and resonates with your audience.

12. How can I create a seamless transition between songs in my travel video montage?

Create a seamless transition between songs in your travel video montage by fading out one track and fading in the next, using crossfades, or overlaying audio effects to smooth out the shift in music.

13. Can I use multiple songs in my travel video montage?

Using multiple songs in your travel video montage can help create a dynamic, diverse, and engaging soundtrack that keeps viewers engaged and enhances the overall viewing experience.

14. How can I match the lyrics of a song with the visuals in my travel video montage?

Match the lyrics of a song with the visuals in your travel video montage by selecting songs with relevant, meaningful, or evocative lyrics that enhance the narrative and emotional impact of your footage.

15. What are some creative ways to incorporate music into my travel video montage?

Incorporate music into your travel video montage creatively by using sound effects, voiceovers, ambient noise, or live recordings to enhance the mood, atmosphere, and storytelling of your footage.

16. How can I create a memorable soundtrack for my travel video montage?

Create a memorable soundtrack for your travel video montage by selecting songs that resonate with your audience, evoke emotions, and enhance the overall viewing experience. Choose music that leaves a lasting impression.

17. Where can I find inspiration for music for my travel video montage?

Find inspiration for music for your travel video montage by exploring new artists, genres, and styles of music, attending concerts, festivals, and events, and seeking recommendations from friends, family, and fellow travelers.

In conclusion, choosing the right music for your travel video montage is essential to creating a captivating, immersive, and memorable viewing experience. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, a backpacking adventure, or a luxury vacation, the perfect soundtrack can elevate your footage and transport viewers to new destinations, experiences, and emotions. Experiment with different songs, genres, and styles of music to find the perfect fit for your travel films and create a soundtrack that resonates with your audience. Let the music guide you on your journey and bring your travel adventures to life in 2024 and beyond.

Final Thoughts:

As you embark on your next travel adventure, remember the power of music to enhance your experiences, evoke emotions, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re exploring new destinations, meeting new people, or discovering new cultures, let the right soundtrack accompany you on your journey and inspire you to embrace the beauty, wonder, and joy of travel. With the right songs in your playlist, your travel video montage will not only capture the sights and sounds of your adventures but also the spirit and soul of your journey. So choose your music wisely, hit play, and let the music take you where you want to go. Safe travels and happy editing! [ad_2]

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27 Best Songs for Travel Videos

When you travel, you’d want to document your adventures and eternalize your memories. What better way to do that than to document everything in a travel video?

A travel video isn’t entirely difficult to create, but what makes or break it are the songs that go into it. The right songs can capture the vibe and feel of your travel experience and evoke strong emotions from your viewers.

We have compiled a list of songs that would be a great fit for your travel videos. Whether you’re looking for epic anthems or quiet ballads, you’ll surely find one track that depicts your journeys and getaways. 

The Best Songs for Travel Videos

“unbreakable” – bunt. feat. clarence coffee jr . .

This upbeat single might sound like Avicii’s 2016 hit, but according to BUNT., they’d been working on their version three years before Avicii did. 

With a folksy melody, the song takes you on a journey through nature, making it a perfect choice for your hiking or camping videos. 

“Travelin’ Man” – Ricky Nelson 

“Travelin’ Man” is about traveling all right, but not the way you think of! Lyrically, it’s about a man who goes from one country to another making love to different women. 

Released in 1961, the song features a relaxing tune and soft vocals that adds charm to your travel videos. 

Just make sure to put a disclaimer if you have a partner so they won’t get the wrong idea. 

“Sleep on the Floor” – The Lumineers 

Released on the 2016 album Cleopatra , this folk-rock ballad is about two lovers who elope and leave their home.

With simple instrumentals and passionate vocals, it’s a beautiful song that would give your travel videos an adventurous tone. 

You can add it over clips of your destinations and the things you did there. 

“On My Way” – The Melodic 

“On My Way” is one of those special songs that perfectly captures the feeling of traveling and experiencing different moments in a few verses. 

The track tells the story of a man who moves from one place to another when the right time comes. 

The rhythmic instrumentals and tender vocals give it a refreshing vibe that would make your travel videos more engaging. 

“Renegades” – X Ambassadors 

It’s crazy to think that this rock track was originally composed for a tie-in with a Jeep commercial. 

Published on the 2015 album VHS , “Renegades” explores themes of freedom, rebelliousness, and wanderlust. 

It’s a catchy song that will certainly depict the sense of wonder and awe your experienced in your videos. Bonus points if you travelled around in a Jeep! 

“Traveling On” – KONGOS 

“Traveling On” tells the story of a man who decides to leave everything he knows to go around the world. 

It sets a nostalgic and melancholic tone, accompanied by a simple guitar-backed tune and tender vocals. 

These qualities would capture the irreplaceable experiences you got while evoking a sense of yearning in your travel videos.  

“Travelling Alone” – Passengers  

Published in the 2015 album Whisper II , “Travelling Alone” tells the story of a man and woman who are heartbroken from the loss of the people they loved. 

Like the title, it makes a good song pick for solo travel videos. The simplicity of the song, along with Mike’s tender vocals, would definitely tug at your viewers’ heartstrings. 

“Adventure of a Lifetime” – Coldplay 

This funky track is all about travelling, living life, and loving without limits. 

Backed with a catchy disco beat, the high-energy rhythm and vibrant vocals capture the thrill of being on an adventure. 

It also features sick guitar riffs that were inspired by Guns N’ Roses’s “Sweet Child o’ Mine.” 

“Vacation” – Thomas Rhett

If you’re looking for a song for your summer vacation videos, Rhett’s country-pop single is perfect for you! 

An uptempo track, “Vacation” would be great to showcase your travel videos with your family and friends at the beachside. 

“Compass” – Zella Day 

“Compass” is a subdued love ballad about spending quiet moments with your lover and following them wherever they go. 

Along with a mellow rhythm, the lyrics suggest images of sprawling forests and vast seas. 

It’s a breathtaking tune that would make your viewers feel carefree when they watch your travel videos. 

“All Summer Long” – Kid Rock 

“All Summer Long” hits us with a wave of nostalgia and airy vibes that makes us long for simpler days. 

This upbeat rock track revolves around the joy of summer, making it a great choice to depict that fresh, warm feel in your travel videos. 

“Life Is a Highway” – Rascal Flatts

Not many songs capture the feeling of being on the road like Flatt’s 2006 cover of the original Tom Cochrane hit. 

Widely known for being featured in Pixar’s film Cars , it’s a song about wanting to visit many places and travel as freely as you want. 

You can add this song over clips of towns and cities you stopped by, and of course, highways! 

“Every Summertime” – Niki

Niki’s 2021 summer anthem was dazzling in Marvel’s Shang-Chi and would undoubtedly give your videos the same charm. 

“Every Summertime” is a love ballad about two teens in the ’80s, hence its sweepingly euphoric tone. 

The twinkling melodies, breezy vocals, and chill vibes would show your viewers the joy of traveling. 

“On My Way” – Phil Collins 

Phil Collins knows how to make awesome bangers, and this 2003 pop single still holds a special place in our hearts. 

The song is most well-known for being featured in the Disney film Brother Bear , detailing the two protagonists as they travel around. 

The song exudes glee and thrill, which would give your travel videos a sense of childlike wonder. 

“Beautiful Day” – U2

Traveling isn’t about the destination; it’s about the journey. And U2’s 2000 track perfectly depicts that. 

Lyrically, it’s about finding happiness in even the gloomiest moments. 

Even if you’re only able to travel to nearby destinations, the smiles and laughter that you showcase in your travel videos are more than enough memories you can hope for.

“Paris” – The Chainsmokers

If you’ve traveled to Paris and want to show others what you’ve done there, this song is the best option you can get!

The song revolves around a young couple who’ve left home for Paris and the development of their relationship. 

This subdued track is delivered over synths and guitars with tropical house undercurrents, capturing a sense of nostalgia and freedom. 

“On Top of the World” – Imagine Dragons 

First published on the 2012 album Night Visions , this upbeat smash hit is a celebration of success and accomplishment. 

The uplifting song would be suitable for travel videos where you climbed mountains or reached the rooftops of buildings. 

It was also featured in a number of commercials, films, and games like EA Sports’s Fifa 13 , Dreamworks’s The Croods , and a Coca-Cola ad. 

“Road Trippin’” – Red Hot Chili Peppers 

“Road Trippin’,” as the title goes, details the band’s road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. 

It’s a calm acoustic track that sets a pleasant and relaxing tone for travel videos. 

“Wanderlust” – The Weeknd

“Wanderlust” exudes a Michael Jackson-esque vibe, exploring the misconstrued concept of love. 

Debuting in the 2014 album Kiss Land , this song samples heavily from Fox the Fox’s “Precious Little Diamond.” 

With pounding beats and a catchy rhythm, it has a mysterious feel that would be suitable for night travel videos. 

“Barcelona” – George Ezra

If you’re making a video of your travels in Europe, “Barcelona” is the best option you got! 

This folksy single takes inspiration from Ezra’s personal connection and stay in Barcelona City itself. It talks of lost love and nostalgic memories. 

The guitar-backed tune and Ezra’s honeyed vocals give it a soothing feel that would enhance your video in many ways. 

“Chillin’ It” – Cole Swindell 

Released in 2013, this melodic country track takes us on a journey on the open road under clear, blue skies and gorgeous sunsets. 

Swindell’s tender vocals add on to the simplistic appeal of the track too. 

Featuring this song in your travel videos would give it a nostalgic feel when you revisit it later. 

“Vacate” – Wet Bandits 

The alternative rock band Wet Bandits brings us a chill yet catchy ballad about finding time to unwind for your own benefit.  

Accompanied by a groovy, irresistible tune, this song makes you feel like you’re on a journey to self-exploration. 

“Come Away” – Sons of the East 

Published in 2013, “Come Away” is a love song about a man who wants to run away with a woman he loves. 

With a pleasing folksy melody, the song oozes with an uplifting feel that puts you in a good mood. 

If you include it in your travel videos, your viewers might even be inspired to travel too! 

“With You” – Jaguar Sun 

If you’re looking for a relaxing and positive track for your travel videos, “With You” checks out all the boxes. 

Lyrically, it’s about having the courage to leave and move on without looking back. 

This track would be a good choice for clips of being on the open road or taking a walk along the beach. 

“Big Jet Plane” – Angus and Julia Stone 

This slow-paced 2010 ballad will have you lost in your thoughts and memories the second it plays. 

Featuring simple instrumentals and smooth vocals, this charming song is about a man who travels around with his love interest in a big jet plane. 

This track is certain to give your travel videos a sentimental yet peaceful feel. 

30 Road Trip Hindi Songs to Ad in Your Travel Playlist

We went ahead and made the complete list on Spotify for you here - Holidify's Road Trip Playlist .

1. Yunhi Chala Chal (Swades)

If you're treading along the lesser travelled roads of India, make sure you have this song on your playlist to keep your spirits up when you are squashed in a bus full of locals. Bonus fun if you can find a 'baba' to sing along on the trip.

2. Dil Chahta Hai (Title Track)

It's hard to leave this one of the list. Farhan Akhtar's 2001 debut film is when travel took a front seat in a Bollywood film than just as a backdrop to a scene. Dil Chahta Hai in our opinion will always remain the  ultimate hindi travel song for road trips, especially if during from Mumbai to Goa through the Konkan coast, where this song was shot.

3. Khwabon Ke Parindey (ZNMD)

Exactly ten years later, Farhan Akhtar's sister Zoya comes out with an extension of the road trip  vibe movie, only this time on a much larger scale. As a result, we have a film that not only has travel as the central theme but inspires you to travel . Haven't you all tried waving your hand against the wind, as Hrithik did?

4. Tanha Dil (Shaan)

5. Suhana Safar Aur Ye (Madhumati)

There is a reason why 'old is gold', it's because of classics like this song. From the 1958 movie Madhumati, picturized on Dilip Kumar and Vyjantimala, the tune is so melodious you can't help but hum along with it - A must add on your list of road trip songs.

6. Hum Jo Chalne Lage (Jab We Met)

7. Zindagi Ek Safar Hai Suhana (Andaaz)

8. Yeh Dil Na Hota Bechara (Jewel Thief)

Another of Kishore Kumar's best songs, add to that the evergreen Dev Anand's classic strut and you can't help but tap your feet to tunes of S.D. Burman's music while taking in the scenic beauty of the trip. We wholeheartedly approve that this song be added to the greatest list of best hindi travel songs ever.

9. Aaj Kal Zindagi (Wake up Sid)

Whether you're trying to scale the Mt. Everest or take a plunge in the Arabian Sea, this feel-good song is all the pep talk you need. From the movie Wake up Sid, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's beautiful composition!

10. Ilahi (YJHD)

Admit it, you wished for Bunny aka Kabir aka Ranbir's life in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. You repeated this dialogue, " Main udna chahta hoon, daudna chahta hoon, girna bhi chahta hoon bus rukhna nahi chahta" , to anyone who asked you why you want to travel !

11. Patakha Guddi (Highway)

This song from Highway won everyone's heart with its catchy lyrics and music and awesome video showing an actual road-trip ! Put on your headphones, turn up the volume and take a lift on the back of a truck for the best experience.

13. Musafir Hoon Yaaron

14.    Hai Apna Dil Toh Awara - Solva Saal

One of the best songs to bounce to, this number so aptly reverberates with the ethos of our generation, that it is impossible to not be in love with. All the more so when we have our travelling boots on! It is surely one of the best Hindi travel songs from the bygone era.

15. Kabira (Ye Jawani Hai Deewani)

Bunny was pretty nomadic, and boy wasn't his life awesome! Kabira is perfect for when you're leaving a tiny part of your heart in a new place and are dealing with all the blues of separation.

You can also check out this  Playlist of English Travel Songs

16.  Azaadiyan (Udaan)

Strict mucchhadd  dad, cute son, a cuter younger son, and a lovely song all about freedom. The travel playlist is just incomplete without this contemporary classic from Bollywood.

17.  Oh Gujaria (Queen)

Free, fun and lively, Gujariya from Queen is one of those songs that will make your head bounce back and let you soak in the joy of the lovely beats! What's more, it celebrates your aawaarapan ! Perfect road-trip song; isn't it?

18. Chhod Aaye Hum Wo Galiyaan (Maachis)

19. Kyon (Barfi)

20. Dekha Hai Aisa Bhi - Lucky Ali

A waylaid breeze, a road trip, and this blasting in your car? Isn't that the mantra for a great holiday! Last I heard, Lucky Ali was listed as a community favourite among us. We're sure you shall like the guy too!

21. Chala Jaata Hoon Kisi Ki Dhun Mein (Mere Jeevan Saathi)

22. Hairat (Anjaana Anjaani)

23. Safarnama (Tamasha)

24. Banjarey (Fugly)

25. Chota Sa Fasana (Karwaan)

26. Phid Se Ud Chala (Rockstar)

27. Journey Song (Piku)

28. Sooraj Dooba Hain (Roy)

29. Maeri - Euphoria

30. Udd Gaye (Bacardi House Party Sessions) - Ritviz

This post was published by Sneha Powar

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All 11 of Taylor Swift's No. 1 songs ranked ahead of her 11th album release

When you hear someone say " Taylor Swift " you may think of her fashion , her famous friends or those outrageous conspiracy theories.

But what truly makes Swift exceptional is her music. She is the first artist to have a billion-dollar-grossing tour . The first person to win the album of the year Grammy four times . She owns Billboard Hot 100 records for the female artist with the most-charted songs (231), most Top 40 songs (137), most Top-10 songs (49) and second-most No. 1 debuts (six). And those are just a sampling of Swift’s record-breaking success in recent years

In anticipation of Swift’s 11th studio album, “ The Tortured Poets Department ,” arriving Friday and poised to break more musical records, we’ve ranked her 11 No. 1 hits (and yes, she probably would appreciate the numerical symmetry to her new album).

11. ‘Willow’ (2020)

The wispy ballad from “Evermore” dances prettily with its spine of acoustic guitar and a lilting chorus. But, like many of the songs on Swift’s second foray into folk-leaning pop, it’s airy to the point of fluttering into the ether.

10. ‘Bad Blood’ (2015)

As the fourth single from Swift’s “1989” album, there was hardly anything to prove following No. 1 hits in “Shake It Off” and “Blank Space” and a Top 10 entry with the gliding “Style.” But the song, while gently biting in its contention of good times gone sour, is remembered less for its repetitive chorus and more for setting the foundation for the snarling “Look What You Made Me Do” on her next album.

9. ‘Cardigan’ (2020)

“Folklore,” the album that birthed Swift’s sixth No. 1 hit, arrived as a welcome surprise a few months into the pandemic's lonely lockdowns. The exchange of glistening synths from her previous release, “Lover,” to the soft piano and hazy production from Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff on this lead single from “Folklore” surprised fans. But they quickly embraced the new vibe as she retreated to a world of enchanted forests and moss-covered pianos.

8. ‘Cruel Summer’ (2023)

Follow along: The song resides on 2019’s “Lover.” The COVID-19 pandemic nixed plans to release it as a single in 2020. The melodic synth-pop ditty – always a fan favorite, and apparently one of Swift’s as well – resurfaced during her Eras Tour when it debuted in March 2023 and became a viral hit, returning to the Billboard Hot 100 in June 2023. The swirly, girly pop anthem crept to No. 1 to mark her 10th chart-topper.

7. ‘All Too Well (Taylor’s Version)’ (2021)

The much-publicized, admirably savvy decision by Swift to rerecord her albums so she would own her masters allowed her to release the full 10-minute presentation (aka “Taylor’s Version”) of the winding breakup ballad initially released on her 2012 “Red” album. It’s one of her most verbose, but with its vivid storytelling about making sense of wounding memories , the time flies.

6. ‘Is It Over Now? (Taylor’s Version)’ (2023)

Fans think the venom-spiked lyrics target former boyfriend Harry Styles. Whoever she's singing about, Swift’s most recent No. 1 that was delivered as a bonus track on “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” is a winsome marriage of layered background vocals and stinging words. “If she has blue eyes, I will surmise that you’ll probably date her,” Swift delivers with sarcastic precision. That the vitriol is softened by a plush melody hardly diminishes the verbal blows.

5. ‘We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together’ (2012)

Swift ascended to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time with this stomper, her inaugural slide from full country heroine to pop starlet. As she smacks back a paramour who tries to return to her good graces, Swift conserves her brawniest words for a spoken-word bridge that highlights her relatability: “Ugh, so he calls me up and he’s like, ‘I still love you’ and I’m like, I just, I mean, this is just exhausting, you know?”  

4. 'Shake It Off' (2014)

A perky pop bauble that sounds slight, but is undoubtedly irresistible. Swift is so musically canny that she fuses ‘80s-era synths with a ‘60s-era girl group sheen and makes it sound unique. The song is not only an undeniable concert highlight, but its straightforward directive in the chorus still serves as a useful reminder on tough days.

3. ‘Anti-Hero’ (2022)

Her confidence as a songwriter clearly boosted from her poetic musings on “Folklore” and “Evermore,” Swift returned in 2022 with “Midnights” and its lead single showcased internal screw-ups and apologies with unflinching honesty. Shades of Kate Bush are insinuated in the dark melody, but the real hero is the ready-made T-shirt slogan, “It’s me. Hi. I’m the problem, it’s me.”

2. ‘Look What You Made Me Do’ (2017)

Swift has never dodged a fight, and she made clear on this searing slice of electropop that if you want to come for the queen, you best be ready. In a way, the song signaled a rebirth for Swift, who proved – as if she needed to – that the cute girl in the tennis sneakers was equally as capable as donning a snake-inspired cat suit and extending her claws.

1. ‘Blank Space’ (2014)

Swift’s l y rical mastery presents itself in nearly every song she’s ever penned – even a seemingly simplistic chorus in “Welcome To New York” is laced with knowing nods – but this “1989” standout best exposes her genius. The clip-clop beat, the staccato delivery, the seesawing between flirty (“I can make the bad guys good for a weekend”) and daring (“I’ve got a blank space, baby, and I’ll write your name”) are all wicked delights. But the song also contains perhaps the best line she’s ever written: “Darling, I’m a nightmare dressed like a daydream.” Swiftian perfection.

Dickey Betts: 15 Essential Allman Brothers Band Songs

By Corbin Reiff

Corbin Reiff

After the death of slide-guitar savant Duane Allman in 1971, many expected the Allman Brothers Band to fold up shop and call it quits.  But the five remaining members decided to soldier on in the face of incomprehensible tragedy. In Duane’s absence, it fell to the group’s other guitar player, Dickey Betts — a country-loving hothead from West Palm Beach, Florida — to pick up the titanic amounts of slack left by their indelible departed leader. Betts, who died Thursday at 80, responded to the challenge better than anyone could have imagined.

“When my brother died, Dickey really stepped up,” Gregg Allman wrote in his autobiography My Cross to Bear . “He wood-shedded like crazy … every day, he wrote. At three o’clock every afternoon, he’d sit down and write.” Just four months after Duane’s death, the band released Eat a Peach , which remains to this day, their most commercially successful studio album to date. A year later, they would score the highest-selling single of their career, “Ramblin’ Man,” which hit Number Two. The singer and writer behind that particular success? Dickey Betts.

Perhaps because his last name isn’t featured in the literal name of the group he helped make iconic, some of Betts’ contributions to their genre-defining canon have become obscured over the years. But make no mistake, the Allman Brothers Band would never have reached the lofty heights they did — millions of albums sold, private jets, legendary concerts, and eventual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame status — without his pen and his guitar. Here are some of Betts’ best songs.

“Revival” (1970)

“Revival” is the first song that Betts received a writing credit for as a member of the Allman Brothers Band. Appearing on their second album Idewild South , it’s a funky, uplifting track that the guitarist wrote specifically to counter the generally dour material presented by the group’s lead singer. “I think with my dad being a fiddle player I kind of naturally liked the uplifting aspects of music, but, I was in a band with Gregg Allman, who is basically a melancholy kind of writer,” he told the Sarasota Herald-Tribune in 2014. “I would really make an effort to write more up songs, to balance the band out. That kind of influenced the way I wrote.”

“In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” (1970)

“In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” is Betts’ other stunning standout on Idewild South , and marks an interesting step forward for the band sonically speaking. A totally instrumental number, it’s far jazzier in feeling than the group’s generally blues-informed sound, and the way that Betts locks in with Duane Allman, specifically through the song’s signature melody, is absolutely thrilling. As for the title, Betts came up with the name after spying it on a headstone in Rose Hill Cemetery in Macon, Georgia. “The spot had provided me with so much peace and inspiration that I decided to name the song after her,” Betts remembered in Alan Paul’s oral history of the Allman Brothers Band, One Way Out .

“Whipping Post” (1971)

The true power of the Allman Brothers Band, especially in those formative early years, was the guitar interplay between Duane Allman and Dickey Betts. It’s what set them apart from so many other blues-rock contemporaries in the late Sixties and early Seventies and helped solidify their reputation as a can’t-miss live band. Exhibit A of their otherworld chemistry is the song “Whipping Post,” as captured on the seminal live album At Fillmore East . The way their guitars mingle and cry together just at the apex of the song, right before Gregg screams the final chorus, is utterly breathtaking.

“Hot ‘Lanta” (1971)

“Hot ‘Lanta” was a song that the Allman Brothers Band never got around to capturing in the studio, but it became an incendiary highlight of their live shows. The instrumental piece made its debut on At Fillmore East , and captures Duane, Gregg, Betts, and drummer Butch Trucks all showing what they could do with the spotlight firmly on them. It was Betts however, who came up with the song’s jazzy almost prog-like, signature melody.

“Les Brers in A Minor” (1972)

“When I wrote ‘Les Brers’ everyone kept saying they had heard it before, but no one could figure out where,” Betts recalled in One Way Out . As it turned out, the melody was a reprise from a solo he took on “Whipping Post” during a concert one night. The title is a “bad French” pseudo-translation of “less brothers,” and is Betts’ instrumental tribute to Duane. As Gregg recalled in his memoir, it took 29 takes before the guitarist was satisfied with it in the studio. “We used the second [take],” he said, seemingly still annoyed decades after the fact.

“Melissa” (1972)

Originally written by Gregg Allman all the way back in 1967, the singer kept working at “Melissa,” refining it for years, before finally offering it up to the group to record for Eat a Peach . He played the song at Duane’s funeral, and he would later recall introducing it there as “my brother’s favorite song that I ever wrote.” A tender love ballad, it certainly tugs at the listener’s heartstrings, but it’s the touching slide solo played by Betts on his Les Paul that really drives home the mournful emotions hovering just under the surface.

“Blue Sky” (1972)

Dickey Betts was inspired to write the song “Blue Sky” by a woman very close to his heart. “I was married to an Indian girl whose last name was Wabegijig, which means clear blue sky,” he explained to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune . It was also one of the first songs that Betts took over vocal duties. “I asked Gregg to sing ‘Blue Sky’ and actually the producer, Tom Dowd, he said, ‘No, why don’t you sing it.’” So he did, to tender, beautiful effect.

“Mountain Jam” (1972)

“Mountain Jam” is another towering guitar monolith, stretching out past the 30-minute mark during the band’s iconic stand at the Fillmore East in 1971, and included on Eat a Peach . The song itself is an elongated, electrified riff on Scottish folk singer Donovan’s “There Is a Mountain.” Everyone in the Allmans gets to shine on this recording — wait for Butch Trucks’ epic drum solo in the middle — but again, it’s the interplay between Duane and Dickey that steals the show.

“Ramblin’ Man” (1973)

The highest charting hit of the Allman Brothers Band’s career wasn’t an old blues song. It wasn’t a Duane or Gregg composition either. Hell, Gregg didn’t even sing on it. “Ramblin’ Man” came straight from Dickey, who by 1973 had started to assert more artistic control over the group. Inspired by a 1951 Hank Williams song of the same name, Betts wrote “Ramblin’ Man” in about 20 minutes in bassist Barry Oakley’s kitchen sometime around four in the morning. According to newly hired guitarist Ray Dudek in One Way Out , it was the band’s iconic roadie “Red Dog” who summed up the power of the song probably better than anyone, when after hearing it for the first time he remarked that it was “the best I heard since Duane.”

“Jessica” (1973)

Named after Betts’ daughter who was only an infant at the time he wrote it, “Jessica” has an upbeat, sunny vibe that’s almost guaranteed to put a smile on your face. It’s not too difficult to understand why. The proud new papa composed the piece while trying to capture the way his bubbly daughter looked while bouncing along to the track’s jaunty rhythm. For the instrumental piece, Betts also drew inspiration from the legendary two-fingered gypsy-jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt, trying his best to only use two fingers himself while playing along.

“Southbound” (1973)

All three songs that make up the second side of 1973’s  Brothers and Sisters were written by Dickey Betts. Tucked in between the aforementioned “Jessica” and the record closer “Pony Boy” is this classic Seventies blues-rock rave-up titled “Southbound.” It’s got all the tropes you’ve come to love and expect from an Allman Brothers Band song: love, loneliness, travel, a wistful admiration of the American South and one hell of a guitar solo in the middle.

“Crazy Love” (1979)

Enlightened Rogues was the first album the Allman Brothers produced after a fractious break-up around 1976. Though Betts wasn’t happy about the configuration of the band during this era — “We did not have a slide guitarist, so I had to do it. Not only did I not enjoy this, but it altered the sound of the band, which needs to have my sound and the slide working together,” he complained in One Way Out — it did produce the second-highest-charting single of the Allmans’ career, another Betts-penned track titled “Crazy Love.” As much as he may not have personally loved playing slide, the man had the necessary chops, as you can hear from that low, whining lick at the very top of the track.

“Seven Turns” (1990)

The Eighties were a rough time for the Allman Brothers Band, but they finally put it all back together again at the tail end of the decade to record a widely acclaimed return-to-form record titled Seven Turns . Betts wrote the album’s title track, which was released as a single that topped out at Number 12 on the rock charts. “Seven Turns” has a distinct California country-rock feel that almost makes it sound like an Eagles song. Betts’ vocals, a little rougher around the edges than they were during the band’s Seventies heyday, are what really give the tune its emotional heft. 

“No One to Run With” (1994)

The last album Betts recorded with the Allmans was 1994’s Where It All Began . He was shown the door by Gregg and the rest of the band just six years later. “Human nature is you work shoulder to shoulder in a real emotional kind of setting and there are jealousies that come up,” Betts later explained of his departure to the Herald-Tribune . “There’s resentment and resentment turns to just outright bad things.” As far as swan songs go, you could do a lot worse than “No One to Run With.” The song harks back to the jazzy, bluesy lead-guitar lines that made the Allmans stars all those years ago, but it’s tinged with a sweet nostalgia to “do those crazy things we used to do before.”

“Midnight Rider” (1970)

“Midnight Rider” has gone down as Gregg Allman’s signature tune, and for good reason. It’s a dramatic tale of a man clad in stolen clothes with just one silver dollar clanging around in his pocket, trying to stay one step ahead of some nameless, unrelenting foe. Duane provides the song’s repetitive, acoustic riff while Betts flavors it with some countrified licks just underneath, before exploding to the fore with a sweetly understated solo. 

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Mandisa, ‘american idol’ contestant and grammy-winning musician, dead at 47.

A cause of death has not been revealed.

By DeMicia Inman

DeMicia Inman

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Mandisa , a season five contestant on American Idol and Grammy Award-winning musician, has died at the age of 47. According to Deadline , the tragic news was announced by K-Love, the Christian radio network.

“Mandisa loved Jesus , and she used her unusually extensive platform to talk about Him at every turn,” detailed David Pierce, K-Love Chief Media Officer. “Her kindness was epic, her smile electric, her voice massive, but it was no match for the size of her heart.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mandisa (@mandisaofficial)

“Mandisa struggled, and she was vulnerable enough to share that with us, which helped us talk about our own struggles,” Pierce added. “Mandisa’s struggles are over. She is with the God she sang about now. While we are saddened, Mandisa is home. We’re praying for Mandisa’s family and friends and ask you to join us.”

The singer was born Mandisa Hundley in California and finished in the top 10 in the aforementioned season of American Idol in 2006 . She continued to release her debut album, True Beauty , the following year.

In 2013, Mandisa released the album Overcomer, which resulted in Christian radio success for songs including “Stronger” and “My Deliverer.” The album would eventually win the Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.  

VIBE sends our condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Mandisa.

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How Taylor Swift's Tortured Poet's Department Style Compares to Past Eras

Like her musical eras, the popstar’s style has evolved over her nearly 20-year career

Frazer Harrison/Getty

The release of The Tortured Poets Department on Friday, April 19, marks the beginning of yet another era in Taylor Swift’s musical career. 

Now on her 11th studio album, the singer-songwriter has emerged over the years as one of this generation’s biggest names in music. From a humble country music beginning to multiple musical genre switches, some acting stints, and the most recent display of her entire musical catalog on the wildly successful, history-making Eras Tour , Swift, 34, is no stranger to experimentation. Her style is no exception to that rule. 

From cowboy boots to her latest “literary academia” inspired looks, Swift’s musical endeavors have often been reflected in her style choices. Read ahead to see how Swift's style eras over the years compare to her latest stylistic and sound shifts from The Tortured Poets Department. 

Taylor Swift (2006)

Released in 2006, Taylor Swift's eponymous album launched the then-16-year-old’s now storied career. A country album, this musical era is accompanied by a little bit of twang and a whole lot of cowboy boots. Mini dresses were a must, ensuring that Swift's footwear was visible at all times.

Ethan Miller/Getty

Ethan Miller/Getty 

Fearless (2008)

During her Fearless era, Swift took her country vibe to new heights, and added in plenty of sequins and fringe — after all, she does love glitter and sparkly dresses . However, the "You Belong With Me" singer kept true to her roots with plenty of cowboy boots and her signature curly hair. A truly ‘fearless’ combo!

Jason Kempin/Getty

Speak Now (2010)

Swift's third album, Speak Now, saw a more romantic shift in the singer's style. After songs like "White Horse" and "Love Story" appeared on Swift's sophomore album, Fearless , the young country artist began experimenting with longer silhouettes, beading and updos. The color purple was a mainstay in this era of Swift's style.

Ed Rode/Nashville Rising/Getty

Larry Busacca/Getty

Swift's Red era was, well, pretty red. The star favored a more streamlined color palette—blues, whites, blacks, and yes, reds, often pairing them with a high-waisted short for a retro vibe. Patterns were another favorite of Swift's during the Red years, as she sported many a stripe and polka dot. The iconic "22" hat also made its debut here and has been one of the most celebrated looks on the Eras Tour ten years later . Her red lip also became her beauty signature.

Lester Cohen/WireImage

Scott Barbour/TAS/Getty

1989 (2014)

1989' s release marked a major milestone in the then-24-year-old's musical movements. The star, who had risen to fame with her country music, left her boots behind and made the full switch to pop music. Her outfits from this period are certainly inspired by her move to New York City around the same time — bright, sparkly and chic like the "City that Never Sleeps." It might explain why she found herself wearing sunglasses so often!

Jeff Vinnick/Getty

George Pimentel/Getty 

Reputation (2017)

After the bright colors and sparkles of 1989, the "End Game" singer's Reputation style took a dark turn — literally. After nearly vanishing from the public eye altogether, Swift reemerged, suddenly favoring dark colors, edgy metallics and her fair share of snake print.

Jun Sato/TAS18/Getty

Frazer Harrison  / Staff / Getty Images

Lover (2019)

Almost as suddenly as they had appeared, Swift swapped her snakeskin for something a little softer. With the release of her 7th studio album, Lover , in 2019, love certainly seemed to be in the air as Swift once again donned sparkles and vibrant pastels.

Todd Williamson/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal/Getty

Stephen Lovekin/Variety/Penske Media via Getty 

Folklore (2020) and Evermore (2020)

Swift's 9th and 10th studio albums, released only five months apart, signified another genre shift for the lyricist. With twinges of folk present in the music and writing on the two LPs, it's easy to see how Swift's style morphed into a reflection of the albums' literary influences. Plaids and florals abounded in this style period, and Swift always appeared looking cozy — perhaps a nod to the sister albums' pandemic release that kept many indoors.

Kevin Winter/Getty 

Midnights (2022)

Swift's style during her Midnights era was reminiscent of a night sky. With deep blues and dripping sparkles, the "Anti-Hero" singer never failed to shine during this era — like a star at, well, midnight.

Amy Sussman/Getty

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

The Tortured Poets Department (2024)

Swift's latest style endeavors are truly the looks of a tortured poet. It's all a little bit preppy, a little bit edgy, and somehow, very literary. The 14-time Grammy winner's accessories are the star of this era — doing more than just spicing up her outfit and sometimes functioning as the wearable Easter eggs that the superstar loves so much.

One of the biggest Easter eggs foreshadowing the star's new musical era was the Schiaparelli gown she wore to the 66th Annual Grammy Awards in February 2024, seemingly channeling her own modern-day Clara Bow. Swift even named a song on TTPD after the 1920s silent film star. And in the “Fortnight” music video, Swift dons Bow's signature doll-like makeup look (razor-thin eyebrows, smokey eye makeup and bold lipstick).

Stewart Cook/CBS via Getty Images

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The Tortured Poets Department  is now available on music platforms.

Read PEOPLE"s  review of  The Tortured Poets Department  and dive deeper into the album's  deeply personal lyrics ,  call-outs  and  more .

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Judith Hill Sang With Pop Royalty. Now She Is Composing Her Own Story.

The singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist was close to Michael Jackson and Prince. After their deaths, her world crumbled and she had to rebuild on her own.

By Melena Ryzik

Reporting from New York and Los Angeles

The first time the musician Judith Hill performed her anguished requiem “Black Widow” for an audience, she wept, right onstage.

The song’s title is an epithet that has been directed at her for years by tabloids and trolls because as a vocalist and artist, she had been close with two of pop’s biggest stars shortly before their deaths. She was Michael Jackson’s duet partner and performed at his televised memorial in 2009. And for two years before Prince’s fatal overdose in April 2016, she was his protégée, collaborator and more. They shared what she has called “an intense relationship” ; he told her he loved her.

Prince’s sudden, accidental death derailed her promising career — which he had been guiding — and she spiraled into deep grief, depression and self-doubt as online cruelty rained down. It took years before she was able to face what happened, personally or musically.

“It was a deep wound,” she said onstage at a recent showcase at Mercury Lounge in Lower Manhattan, after the soulful, fierce “Black Widow.” Then she brushed her tears away — “enough of that” — and soon started another number, “Dame De La Lumière,” a detailed tribute to her mother and grandmother, with a rippling, urgent chorus that has become her anthem: “Bad times make strong women.”

Both songs are on “Letters From a Black Widow,” her new record, due Friday. It is a concept album that reckons forcefully with her past — not just the boldfaced part, but also the myriad woes and distortions that conspired to make her feel fearful and less-than. The dozen tracks that finally tumbled out chart her path of self-reflection and forgiveness, with achingly personal lyrics paired with muscular funk, soul and blues, and backed by her shredding, soaring guitar. It’s a new reach for an artist known mostly for her acrobatic and emotional vocals ; she wanted her determined message to resonate, too.

“I felt unmuted,” she said, “like I was free to say something now, because I felt like I had really put a muzzle on myself for so long, and was just afraid. And it was very, very liberating to do that.”

Getting there involved therapy; a hallucinogenic trip to a hot springs with friends; and the guitar, which she first picked up in 2016, before Prince’s death. The instrument proved to be transformational. “It helped me work through the trauma,” she said in an interview earlier this year at her house in Los Angeles, where a Gibson, Strat and Taylor lined a newly built studio. If the piano, her lifelong instrument, was her melodic through-line, the guitar, on which she is self-taught, gave her a different vibe. “I do kind of see her as a panther,” she said, smiling. “She’s the warrior energy.”

Hill, who will turn 40 next month, was 4 when she wrote her first song, a gospel number. She grew up in a churchgoing musical firmament in Los Angeles: Her mother, Michiko Hill, was born in Tokyo and plays the keys, organ and piano; her father, Robert Hill, who is Black with roots in Alabama, is a bassist known as PeeWee. They worked with acts like Sly and the Family Stone and Chaka Khan. Now they tour in Hill’s backing band. “It’s a family affair,” as she put it at the New York show.

They live just down the road in Los Angeles, she said a few months ago. She was cozy in a pink sweater, sipping tea in the first home she has owned, her respite from the road. Fans and those in the industry who have been rooting for Hill know her peace is hard-won.

“As they say — now she can breathe,” said the singer Darlene Love, who has known Hill for years. They were both featured in the Oscar-winning 2013 documentary “20 Feet From Stardom,” about background vocalists, for which they also earned Grammys.

Hill, fresh off being a competitor on “The Voice,” was an upstart then. “We called her the baby,” said Love, who started her career in 1960s girl groups. “We were looking at her to become the star out of this movie.”

Her ambitions were known, Love recalled. “I remember Stevie Wonder told her one time, you know, ‘Don’t get so caught up in singing background for me that you miss your shot’” at being the lead.

It started to seem like it would happen, especially when Prince took an interest in Hill after catching a TV interview where she named him as her dream collaborator. From 2014 to 2016, she jammed, recorded and performed with him, becoming a regular presence at Paisley Park , his estate outside Minneapolis. Together, they produced her debut album, “Back in Time,” in 2015. He met her parents.

Then he died, and everything unraveled. She shelved the video for her title track , on which he contributed guitar, bass, drums and vocals, and retreated to Los Angeles, awash in shock.

That’s when the online viciousness hit. “I got a lot of hate messages, some death threats. It got real dark,” she said. (And, she added, it’s still coming.)

The pop singer Daniel Bedingfield, a longtime friend of Hill’s, was part of the inner circle that tried to bolster her in the period after Prince’s death.

“I didn’t really know how it was going to go for a few years,” he said in an interview. “We’d be sitting at a restaurant, and then one of Prince’s songs would come on, and that would be the end of the day. And it was everywhere we went, all the time. A very rough moment.”

Though Hill continued to record and perform in the years that followed, she was having a crisis of conscience about her identity as an artist. “I struggled with really being able to feel like I was enough, or that my story mattered,” she said. “I always felt like my name only mattered because it was in relation to someone else.”

During the pandemic, Bedingfield (known for the early 2000s hit “Gotta Get Thru This” ) helped organize the hot springs camping trip that changed Hill’s outlook, with an assist from some magic mushrooms. While Hill’s friends were off on their own journey, “I went on a real full tilt spiritual trip,” she recalled. She had a vision of a mountain, looming; it symbolized everything she thought she had recovered from in therapy.

“It was very sobering to see that vision and just realize, wow, I’m still hurting,” she said. “I felt God’s basically saying to me: It was never your job to remove the mountain. It’s too big — you can’t move a mountain. Just allow it to be there.” That gave her permission to acknowledge her trauma, not try to run around it. “It was the first time I allowed myself to feel that way, because I kept trying to fix myself,” she said.

Her new album starts with that imagery: “I can feel the mountain,” she roars on the ballad “One of the Bad Ones.”

Her therapist, too, counseled her to face the “Black Widow” taunts through writing; she did it for herself, at first, with no thought of an audience. The song opens with plaintive piano and a whoosh like a cold wind blowing in. Her lyrics murmur of being hidden, then trapped. A spoken-word interlude is raw emotion, as a chorus of voices call her Black Widow and accuse her of killing two musical heroes. “That’s not my name!” she spits back. But then she crumbles: “Maybe it’s true.” A jagged guitar line arrives like a rescue; soft gospel-tinged humming closes it out.

As Hill composed — she wrote and produced the entire album herself — her joy in the production overcame her worry about publicly rehashing these experiences. Daniel Chae, a violinist and session string player for artists like Kacey Musgraves and Zach Bryan, said recording with Hill pushed him into new, harder territory: “Her arrangements were so complex, my jaw was on the floor.”

Hill’s goal with the album was for it to sound sophisticated but propulsive, especially live. She often starts writing with the bass line, “thinking about how I want us to rock onstage,” she said, “because we are a touring band.” Her father will add his flourishes on bass, along with her mother on the organ; their generational groove is rattling, marrow-deep — and danceable.

“Weaponizing funk is something I love to do,” Hill said, “because to me it feels like battle-cry energy.”

Sophia Whitehurst, one of her background singers, has been harmonizing with Hill since they were in a middle school church group. “At a young age, you knew that she was different,” said Whitehurst, who has performed with Lizzo at the Grammys. “I don’t know if I’ve ever seen her go off key, or lose control during the middle of a run, or anything. Her vocal strength is just out of this world — the range, the agility, the grit and soul behind it.”

At Mercury Lounge, center stage in boots and fringe, Hill closed her eyes as she tore into her guitar, erupting with powerhouse vocals. The effect was of an artist fully in command of her instrument and her gift. After her tearful “Black Widow,” the crowd — some members crying too — was briefly quiet, taking it in, then exploded into applause and bravos. Teon Brooks, a Brooklynite, didn’t know Hill’s story; he bought a ticket to the show after hearing “Dame De La Lumière” and was amazed at “the buffet” of Hill’s range. “She fed us,” he said.

For Hill, unleashing this music was release, and affirmation. “I realized," she said, “I’m a lot stronger than I thought.”

Melena Ryzik is a roving culture reporter and was part of a team that won a Pulitzer Prize in 2018 for public service for reporting on workplace sexual harassment. She covered Oscar season for five years, and has also been a national correspondent in San Francisco and the mid-Atlantic states. More about Melena Ryzik

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In Jane Smiley’s rock ’n’ roll novel, does good sense make good fiction?

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Book Review

By Jane Smiley Knopf: 384 pages, $29 If you buy books linked on our site, The Times may earn a commission from Bookshop.org , whose fees support independent bookstores.

Toward the end of Jane Smiley’s new novel, “Lucky,” its narrator takes a moment to flip through her mother’s record collection. It’s got a lot of ’60s folk-rock, including, she notes, “the four J’s.” Presumably she means artists like Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, Judy Collins and Janis Ian. But maybe one of the J’s is the narrator herself — Jodie Rattler, a moderately famous singer with a knack for writing melancholy love songs.

“Lucky” is framed as a rock ’n’ roll novel, but it’s a tricky and surprising one. Smiley seems determined to upend the conventions of the genre. Rather than a tale of outsize fame and fortune — or vice-induced failure — the Jodie Rattler story is about how she … does OK, rising from backup singer to ’60s and ’70s solo act who enjoyed modest success. She rode the folk-rock boom to hit the lower range of the Billboard charts at a time when that still meant decent money. (She logs her singles’ earnings down to the penny: One got her $65,857.52.)

And rather than play coy about lyrics, as many rock-novelists do, Smiley takes a crack at writing a bunch of them, which have a few groaners but are more often creditable faux-Joni: “I’m done with men, or so I say / Women say that every day / But we want something / Something fine. And you are It, / Though you’re not mine.”

But the biggest distinction between “Lucky” and other such novels is that music doesn’t define its hero. “Lucky” is as much a story about Jodie’s experience racking up lovers (23, she counts) and dedicating time to her family back in her hometown of St. Louis. Music gives her a measure of fame, but she can take it or leave it.

The same goes for men: Though she falls for a kind-hearted Englishman named Martin (pointedly, the name of a bespoke guitar brand), she’s comfortable abandoning him. Visiting his parents at their tony manor, she sees married domesticity as something cold and alien. Becoming a person in full, for her, means avoiding conventional attachments: “I still sometimes felt a longing for his grace and the comfort of his embraces, but I didn’t feel guilty for setting out on my own,” she muses.

Jodie’s sensibility is, well, sensible. Throughout her life she’s determined to preserve the good luck that provides the book with its title. But Jodie’s story opens up the question of whether good sense makes for a good novel.

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Domestic fiction tends to thrive on strife and fireworks — something Smiley knows well herself, having won the Pulitzer for 1991’s “A Thousand Acres,” a Midwestern farm saga modeled after “King Lear.” There’s some of that conflict in “Lucky,” as Jodie returns home to find her mother sinking into alcoholism. (“At what point do you say to your mother that she looks like a war orphan?”) But Smiley eschews the screamfests and betrayals.

What emerges instead in “Lucky” is a simple yet provocative idea — what if a woman protagonist were allowed to live independently on her own terms, not tied down by typically novelistic men or the bad blood that infects family life? (Whatever the opposite of a Joyce Carol Oates novel is, this is it.) A Jodie lyric gets at the idea: “Nobody told me the pleasures of fading, / That success requires evading.” The novel’s title, upbeat on the surface, is darkened by the notion of how rare such a character is. And the novel’s tension isn’t about Jodie seeking freedom so much as figuring out how to live as a person who’s always had it. Late in life she writes a “regrets song…about spending my whole life being careful. What had I missed?”

To that end, Jodie writes about her process of trying not to miss things, to be alert to myriad ways she’s connected to music and the world, albeit cautiously. (She seeks out her absent father and stands next to him in a New York deli line, just because.) She strives to be a good observer of both life and herself, and to put it into words. There’s a name for that: songwriter. There’s another name for that: novelist.

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The cleverest trick in “Lucky” is that it introduces a fifth J: Jane Smiley, who we first meet as an unnamed high-school classmate of Jodie’s, a “gawky girl” who grew up to write acclaimed novels. Smiley isn’t Jodie, exactly, but Smiley is chasing the autofictional vibe of Rachel Cusk and Karl Ove Knausgaard, trying to capture the grit of everyday life, just like a songwriter might.

“Lucky,” much like Smiley’s epic the Last Hundred Years trilogy, operates at a deliberately low boil. Life and death flow in and out, and Smiley observes it clearly but empathetically. (Not for nothing is Dickens among her favorite writers.) And “Lucky,” like those books, shows how the business of just being yourself can be a source of struggle and effort. She is, Jodie writes, a “thoughtful young woman with ideas and determination,” and impressively that is enough to carry the novel.

There’s no signal that “Lucky” is Smiley’s final book, but if it were, it would make for an admirable summing up — the story of a well-traveled, keen-eyed writer who’s spent decades making sense of the world in words, and taking pleasure in it for its own sake. A lucky way to make a living.

Mark Athitakis is a writer in Phoenix and author of “The New Midwest.”

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