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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125 Songs About Travel To Fuel Your Wanderlust
If you are like me, then you are always dreaming of travel.
If I’m not researching travel captions for Insta , I listen to songs about travel.
Honestly, I sometimes wonder if I have a problem…I really seem to be obsessed with travel!
If someone were to see my travel songs playlist , they would probably be really confused as to what genre of music I am into.
I think that is the great thing about music; all genres have great songs.
Playing these songs makes me dream of the days we were honeymooning in Italy , or the many times we sat on the beach in Mexico .
These travel songs make me happy and are a blessing on a road trip!
I wanted to share this list of 125 travel songs with you.
Hopefully, you will find inspiration and happiness in them as well!
*This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you. That Texas Couple also participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
125 Songs About Travel
Kokomo by Beach Boys
“Aruba, Jamaica ooo I wanna take you To Bermuda, Bahama come on pretty mama Key Largo, Montego baby why don’t we go “
B lue Hawaii by Elvis Presley
“Dreams come true In blue Hawaii And mine could all come true This magic night of nights with you”
Holiday by Madonna
“If we took a holiday Took some time to celebrate Just one day out of life It would be, it would be so nice .”
Gravity by Coldplay
“Baby It’s been a long time coming Such a long, long time And I can’t stop running Such a long, long time Can you hear my heart beating? Can you hear that sound? ‘Cause I can’t help thinking And I won’t stop now “
Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffet
This is a classic song about travel, so much so that there are bars worldwide celebrating it!
Listening to Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffet makes me wish I was drinking a margarita in the Riviera Maya ! Let’s check out the lyrics!
Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight and the Pips
“Oh, he’s leavin’ (Leavin’) On that midnight train to Georgia, yeah (Leavin’ on that midnight train)
Said, he’s goin’ back (Goin’ back to find) To a simpler place in time”
Read Next: The Ultimate List of Friends Traveling Quotes
What We Live For by American Authors
If this song doesn’t make you want to load up your road trip essentials and hit the road, then I don’t know what will! What do you think?
“I drive a beat-up car, a caravan, the color blue Reminds me of your eyes and all the places we’ve been to We’re tethered to the leather, searching for a better view It’s interstellar when it’s me and you”
Travelin’ Man 1961 by Ricky Nelson
“I’m a travelin’ man Made a lot of stops all over the world And in every port I own the heart Of at least one lovely girl. “
Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) by Shakira
“When you fall, get up, oh oh And if you fall, get up, eh eh Tsamina mina zangalewa ‘Cause this is Africa”
Hello Seattle by Owl City
It’s a pretty simple song, but it will definitely get you thinking about Seattle. LOL!
Havana by Camila Cabello
“Havana, ooh na-na Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh-na-na He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na Oh, but my heart is in Havana”
Rio by Michael Nesmith
“And I think I will travel to Rio Using the music for flight, There’s nothing I know of in Rio, But it’s something to do with the night. It’s only a whimsical notion To fly down to Rio tonight, And I probably won’t fly down to Rio, But then again, I just might.”
Leaving Las Vegas by Cheryl Crow
“I’m leaving Las Vegas Lights so bright, palm sweat, blackjack on a Saturday night Leaving Las Vegas Leaving for good, for good I’m leaving for good I’m leaving for good”
Fr ee by Donovan Frankenreiter
“Here comes corner winds and the changin’ tide We better drop them sails and get inside When will the weather ever let us go I guess we’ll have to wait until the trade winds blow”
Come Fly With Me by Frank Sinatra
“Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away If you could use some exotic booze There’s a bar in far Bombay Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away”
One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head
“One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster The bars are temples but the pearls ain’t free You’ll find a God in every golden cloister A little flesh, a little history I can feel an angel slidin’ up to me”
Graceland by Paul Simon
“In Graceland, in Graceland I’m going to Graceland For reasons I cannot explain There’s some part of me wants to see Graceland:
The Passenger by Iggy Pop
“I am the passenger And I ride and I ride I ride through the city’s backsides “
Life is a Highway by Rascal Flats
Life is a Highway is definitely a song that will get you in the mood to hit the open road. Of course, I always relate it to Route 66 thanks to the Cars movie.
Come Away With Me by Norah JonesThis one is all about sneaking away with your loved one. It makes me want to check all of the items off of my couple’s bucket list with Marty!
“Come away with me and we’ll kiss On a mountain top Come away with me And I’ll never stop lovin’ you”
Leaving on a Jet Plane by Peter Paul and Mary
“I’m leavin’ on a jet plane I don’t know when I’ll be back again”
Have Love, Will Travel by The Sonics
“Well I might take a boat or I’ll take a plane I might hitch hike or jump a railroad train Your kind of love drives a man insane So look for me walking just a any old way”
These Days by The Foo Fighters
Ok, this one is a bit of a stretch and I realize that. I think I consider this a travel song because I think about how one day we will all be gone and so you better live life to the fullest while you can.
American Boy by Estelle featuring Kanye West
“Take me on a trip, I’d like to go some day Take me to New York, I’d love to see LA I really want to come kick it with you You’ll be my American boy.”
First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes
“I went out in the rain, suddenly everything changed They’re spreading blankets on the beach”
Miles Away by The Maine
“I didn’t ever want to come down From that west coast rush and summer high And easy, peaceful sense of time (I felt so alive)”
Take Me Home by Phil Collins
“Take that look of worry Mine’s an ordinary life (Ohh ohh) Working when it’s daylight And sleeping when it’s night”
Hopeless Wanderer by Mumford and Sons
“So when your hope’s on fire But you know your desire Don’t hold a glass over the flame Don’t let your heart grow cold I will call you by name I will share your road “
Carolina In My Mind by James Taylor
“Gone to Carolina in my mind In my mind I’m goin’ to Carolina”
Destination Calabria by Alex Gaudino featuring Crystal Waters
“I left my job, my boss, my car and my home I’m leaving for a destination I still don’t know”
Toes by The Zac Brown Band
“I got my toes in the water, ass in the sand Not a worry in the world, a cold beer in my hand Life is good today”
Travelling Alone by Passenger
“Australian man Scandinavian tan kicking stones round a square he sat for a while and carved out a smile as if someone would care”
You Only Live Once by The Strokes
“Twenty-nine different attributes Only seven that you like, oh Twenty ways to see the world, oh”
Two Tickets To Paradise by Eddie Money
“I’m gonna take you on a trip so far from here, I’ve got two tickets in my pocket, now baby, we’re gonna disappear. We’ve waited so long, waited so long. We’ve waited so long, waited so long. “
Walking in Memphis by Mark Cohn
“Then I’m walking in Memphis Walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale Walking in Memphis But do I really feel the way I feel”
Africa by Toto
” I hear the drums echoing tonight But she hears only whispers of some quiet conversation She’s coming in, 12: 30 flight The moonlit wings reflect the stars that guide me towards salvation”
Road to Nowhere by Talking Heads
Have you ever just jumped in the car and head out to an unknown destination? I know we have, especially on one of our road trips in Texas .
“We’re on a road to nowhere Come on inside Takin’ that ride to nowhere We’ll take that ride”
California Dreaming by The Mamas and Papas
“…I’d be save and warm if I was in L.A. California dreaming on such a winters day”
Beverly Hills by Weezer
“Beverly Hills That’s where I want to be Livin’ in Beverly Hills”
Born to Be Wild by Steppenswolf
“Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Looking for adventure In whatever comes our way”
Not Today by Imagine Dragons
I love the creativity of Imagine Dragon songs, and this one is no exception.
Do You Want to See the World by the Kooks
“Do you want to see the world? In a different way, yeah”
April in Paris by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
Paris is definitely a place of dream, and who wouldn’t love to see Paris in April?
“April in Paris, this is a feeling No one can ever reprise”
A Million Miles Away by David Byrne
“Oh oh A million miles away from here”
Get Here by Oleta Adams
This song is all about all of the ways you can travel to get to the one you love.
“You can reach me by railway, you can reach me by trailway You can reach me on an airplane, you can reach me with your mind You can reach me by caravan, cross the desert like an Arab man I don’t care how you get here, just get here if you can”
Vacation by The GoGo’s
The chorus of this song sums up my travel addiction:
“Vacation, all I ever wanted Vacation, had to get away”
Catch & Release by Matt Simons
“There’s a place I’m going No one knows me”
Road Trippin’ by the Red Hot Chili Peppers
“Road trippin’ with my two favorite allies Fully loaded we got snacks and supplies It’s time to leave this town, it’s time to steal away…”
Take Me Home (Country Roads) by John Denver
A classic song about someone dreaming of being in a different place.
“Country roads, take me home To the place I belong”
Lovers in Japan by Coldplay
“Lovers, keep on the road you’re on Runners, until the race is run”
London Calling by The Clash
Anyone mentioning London takes me back to the 4 days in London that Marty and I spent there. We had such a great time and really loved the city!
“Now get this London calling, yes I was there too “
Around the World by Daft Punk
Simple lyrics, but still a fun song. It really just says “around the world.”
Are You Gonna Go My Way by Lenny Kravitz
This song has many meanings, but I associate it with grabbing the person you love and setting off on a great journey.
We Gotta Get Out of This Place by The Animals
“We gotta get out of this place Girl, there’s a better life For me and you”
Sail Away by David Gray
This is one of the best travel songs. It just makes you feel like you want to get on a boat and never return.
“Sail away with me honey I put my heart in your hand Sail away with me honey…”
Best Travel Songs To Get You Singing Along
Wake up in paris by hot sardines.
Paris is a great city and one that Marty and I really enjoyed visiting. Let the lyrics of this song get you to dreaming about it.
“I want to wake up in Paris As the city greets the day”
Malibu by Miley Cyrus
“We watched the Sun go down as we were walking I’d spend the rest of my life just standing here talking”
I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers
“But I would walk five hundred miles And I would walk five hundred more…”
Ramblin Man by The Allman Brothers Band
This song speaks to me because I have the hardest time staying in one place. LOL!
“Lord, I was born a ramblin’ man”
San Francisco by Scott McKenzie
“For those who come to San Francisco Summertime will be a love-in there”
Change by Some Poetries
I love the following verse of this song so much. It reminds me that each day we can determine what our life will be.
“Today I woke up, knowing that thing will change, and that thing will change So I open up my eyes ready to write the story of my life.”
Take It Easy by The Eagles
“Lighten up while you still can Don’t even try to understand Just find a place to make your stand, and take it easy”
Come Away by Sons of the East
“Come away with me, baby Join me in my car We can go real far away Away from here”
Back in the U.S.S.R. by The Beatles
“I’m back in the U.S.S.R. You don’t know how lucky you are, boy Back in the U.S.”
Wanderlust by The Weeknd
This is me. I’m in love with wanderlust!
“You’re in love with something bigger than love You believe in something stronger than trust Wanderlust Wanderlust”
Sweet Home Alabama by Leonard Skynard
“Sweet home Alabama Where the skies are so blue”
New York by Cat Power
“Start spreading the news I’m leaving today I want to be a part of it New York, New York”
Sitting on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding
“So I’m just go sit on the dock of the bay Watching the tide roll away”
Surfin’ USA by The Beach Boys
“If everybody had an ocean Across the U.S.A. Then everybody’d be surfin’ Like California”
Mexico by James Taylor
“Oh, Mexico It sounds so simple I just got to go The sun’s so hot I forgot to go home Guess I’ll have to go now”
Island in the Sun by Weezer
“When you’re on a holiday You can’t find the words to say…”
Send Me On My Way by Rusted Root
“I would like to hold my little hand How we will run, we will, how we will crawl
Send me on my way…”
Wonderful Life by Black
“Here I go out to sea again Sunshine fills my hair… You know it feels unfair There’s magic everywhere.”
When I’m Gone by Anna Kendrick
“I’ve got my ticket for the long way ‘round The one with the prettiest of views…”
See the World by Gomez
“See the world, find an old fashioned girl”
Travelin’ Prayer by Billy Joel
Travelin’ Prayer by Billy Joel is a man’s prayer to protect his loved one while she is traveling.
“Hey Lord, take a look all around And I’d a find where my baby’s gonna be Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight ‘Cause she is far across the sea”
America by Siman & Garfunkel
“They’ve all come to look for America All come to look for America”
Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen
“We’ll run until we drop, baby we’ll never go back Will you walk with me out on the wire…”
Kathmandu by Bob Seger
“I think I’m going to Katmandu That’s really, really Where I’m going to”
Wish You Were Here by Incubus
“I dig my toes into the sand The ocean looks like A thousand diamonds Strewn across a blue blanket …”
Come With Me Now by KONGOS
I know this song isn’t officially about travel, but I tell Marty often to “come with me now!” LOL!
“Far away I heard him say (Come with me now)”
End of the Line by Traveling Wilburys
“Well, it’s all right, riding around in the breeze Well, it’s all right, if you live the life you please”
Moon River by Audrey Hepburn
“Two drifters, off to see the world There’s such a lot of world to see…”
California Love by Tupac and dr. Dre
“California love! California knows how to party…”
God Bless Texas by Little Texas
“‘Cause God blessed Texas with His own hand Brought down angels from the Promised Land…”
Englishman in New York by Sting
“See me walking down fifth avenue A walking cane here at my side I take it everywhere I walk Im an Englishman In New York”
Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran
“You know, she played the fiddle in an Irish band But she fell in love with an English man…’”
On The Road Again by Willie Nelson
“On the road again Just can’t wait to get on the road again…”
Big Jet Plane by Angus and Julia Stone
“Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane Hey hey, hey hey”
Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac
I know this song is more about breaking up, but I like to think of it more like a getaway song just encouraging people to go their own way and see the world!
“If I could Baby I’d give you my world Open up Everything’s waiting for you”
I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash
“I’ve been everywhere, man I’ve been everywhere, man Across the deserts bare, man I’ve breathed the mountain air, man Of travel I’ve had my share, man I’ve been everywhere”
Castle on the Hill by Ed Sheeran
“I’m on my way Driving at 90 down those country lanes Singing to “Tiny Dancer”…”
Anywhere by Passenger
“If you get up in a jet plane Or down in a submarine If you get onto the next train To somewhere you never been If you wanna ride in a fast car And feel the wind in your hair Darling just look beside you Oh, I’ll go with you anywhere”
Miami by Will Smith
“I’m goin to Miami Welcome to Miami…”
Traveling On by KONGOS
“So long my friend, my foe, my love, my pain The road’s calling out my name…”
Fast Car by Tracy Chapman
“You got a fast car I want a ticket to anywhere Maybe we make a deal Maybe together we can get somewhere”
Budapest by George Ezra
“My house in Budapest My hidden treasure chest…”
King of the World by First Aid Kit
“I keep running around Trying to find the ground But my head is in the stars My feet are in the sky”
Hotel California by The Eagles
“Welcome to the Hotel California Such a lovely place (such a lovely place) Such a lovely face…”
Adventure of a Lifetime by Coldplay
“Then this adventure, more than I And if we’ve only got this life You’ll get me through alive And if we’ve only got this life”
Leave by R.E.M.
“It’s under, under, under my feet. The sea spread out there before me. Where do I go when the land touches sea?”
On Top of The World by Imagine Dragons
“‘Cause I’m on top of the world, ‘ay I’m on top of the world, ‘ay Waiting on this for a while now Paying my dues to the dirt I’ve been waiting to smile, ‘ay Been holding it in for a while, ‘ay Take you with me if I can Been dreaming of this since a child I’m on top of the world.”
A Thousand Miles by Vanessa Carlton
“If I could fall into the sky Do you think time would pass me by? ‘Cause you know I’d walk a thousand miles If I could just see you Tonight”
Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Another song about California. This one is pretty catchy. Check it out if you’ve never heard it!
Permanent Vacation by Aerosmith
“I got to take myself a permanent vacation The sky’s the limit but my plane won’t fly…”
In America by Neil Diamond
“Free, Only want to be free…”
Roam by the B-52s
“Roam if you want to Roam around the world…”
Viva Las Vegas by Elvis Presley
“Viva Las Vegas with you neon flashin’ And your one arm bandits crashin’ All those hopes down the drain …”
I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For by U2
“I have climbed highest mountains I have run through the fields…”
Barcelona by Ed Sheeran
“And you and I we’re flying on an aeroplane tonight We’re going somewhere where the sun is shining bright Just close your eyes And let’s pretend we’re dancing in the street In Barcelona”
Marrakesh Express by Crosby, Still, and Nash
“Looking at the world Trough the sunset in your eyes Trying to make the train To clear Moroccan skies…”
Pompeii by Bastille
“And if you close your eyes Does it almost feel like You’ve been here before?”
Ho Hey by The Lumineers
“Took the bus to china town (hey!) I’ve been standing on Canal (ho!) And Bowery (hey!) (ho!) And she’d be standing next to me (hey!) 1, 2, 3 I belong with you you belong with me you’re my sweet heart…”
On My Way by Phil Collins
“Tell everybody I’m on my way New friends and new places to see With blue skies ahead, yes I’m on my way…”
Ventura Highway by America
“Ventura Highway in the sunshine Where the days are longer The nights are stronger than moonshine You’re gonna go I know …”
New York State of Mind by Billy Joel
“It comes down to reality And it’s fine with me ’cause I’ve let it slide Don’t care if it’s Chinatown or on Riverside I don’t have any reasons I’ve left them all behind I’m in a New York state of mind”
Fly Away With Me by Tom Walker
“So come on fly away with me To a place where we could be anyone we wanna be…”
Time of Your Life by Green Day
“Another turning point a fork stuck in the road Time grabs you by the wrist directs you where to go So make the best of this test and don’t ask why It’s not a question but a lesson learned in time
It’s something unpredictable but in the end It’s right I hope you’ve had the time of your life”
Paris by The Chainsmokers
“We were staying in Paris To get away from your parents…””
Travelling by Paper Lions
“Travelling the road, less known is where I want to be My compass directing, electing, an open road with golden trees…”
Escape (The Pina Colada Song) by Rupert Holmes
“If you like Pina Coladas and getting caught in the rain If you’re not into yoga, if you have half-a-brain If you like making love at midnight in the dunes of the cape I’m the lady you’ve looked for, write to me and escape”
Rocky Road To Dublin by The Irish Descendents
“In the merry month of june, from me home I started left the girls of Tuam, so sad and broken hearted saluted father dear, kissed me darlin’ mother…, frightened all the dogs, on the rocky road to Dublin,”
Running Away by Ed Sheeran ft. Kygo
“You got your bags packed Hoppin’ on the train tonight Nothing to say cause you’re drifting like a satellite”
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it, our list of the 125 best travel songs that will inspire your wanderlust. I hope that his list of travel songs has something that you fall in love with also.
Of course, our list isn’t all-inclusive, so be sure and comment below what other songs we should add to our list!
Happy Travels, Friends!!
While You’re Here, Check Out These Posts:
100 Perfect Quotes About Paris
The Road to Hana: 22 Must-See Stops
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3 Days in Venice: A Great Venice Itinerary
150 Dreamy Beach Quotes
101 Travel Quotes for Insta
Perfect Sunshine Captions for Instagram
The Best Wheeled Backpack for Travel
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Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight:
We love using CheapOAir, Kayak, and Kiwi to search for the best flight prices. We love using these search engines because they search the web for airlines worldwide to ensure you get the best deal! In addition to flights, you can also find great hotel prices on Kayak and Kiwi.
Book Your Vacation Package:
If you want to book an entire vacation package, we suggest using Expedia. We love how easy Expedia is to use, and we always find good deals on entire vacation packages on their site.
Another great site for vacation packages is BookVIP . BookVIP offers super cheap vacation packages to incredible destinations. You are sure to save money using their site!
For full guided vacations, including hotels, some meals, transportation, and guides, then we book with Trafalgar. Trafalgar is a trusted tour company that will meet all your needs while ensuring a great experience.
Trip.com allows you to book flights, hotels, train tickets, rental cars, airport transfers, tours, and more all on one site. Owned by the parent company that also owns Skyscanner, this is a trusted resource for travel booking and a great “one-stop shop.”
Book Your Accommodations:
We always begin our search by checking out honest reviews on TripAdvisor hotels. This allows us to narrow our search for specific properties once we are ready to book. Of course, you can also book directly on the TripAdvisor site!
There are several accommodation sites that we like to use. One of our favorites is Booking.com because it offers a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses at a good price.
Another “go-to” hotel booking site for us is Hotels.com . We love their loyalty program that allows you to earn free nights, and their “secret prices” for members are fabulous deals!
HotelsCombined is another cool site. They allow you to compare all the top travel sites with one search to ensure you find the best deal out there. Kayak works in this way as well.
If you want a luxurious all-inclusive vacation, consider checking out the Sandals/Beaches properties. Sandals properties are for couples only and Beaches are for families. We have visited Sandals in the past and absolutely love the attention to detail and the service they provide.
Tour Companies We Trust:
We love taking guided tours when visiting new places. Our go-to tour companies are Viator.com and Get Your Guide . Both of these companies have been in business for years and provide excellent customer service. You can trust booking tours from their sites for sure!
For a guided city tour, check out City Sightseeing and BigBus Tours . These bus tours are so much fun and easy to hop on and hop off at top attractions in cities around the world.
CityPass is a great way to save money when visiting large cities. CityPass allows you to get free admission to major attractions once you buy their pass. The savings add up quickly with this pass, often saving 50% with combined admissions.
Another great pass to save money in larger cities is the Sightseeing Pass . This pass allows you to save valuable time and money by combining admissions to major attractions. They also have a handy app that keeps everything you need at your fingertips.
Looking to Save Time and Money?
Check out our resource page for all of our favorite vendors. These companies help us to save time and money on our travels!
About the Author
Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.
Monday 15th of February 2021
This is a super fun post! Thanks for the inspiration and an awesome diverse list of music!
Sunday 14th of February 2021
Ah so many great songs! You definitely had me humming along as I was reading through the list!
Saturday 13th of February 2021
Thank you got this amazing list. Such a good new fun way to travel through music .
thattexascouple
Thank you for checking it out!
Friday 22nd of January 2021
This list is already fuelling my wanderlust! I am on the same boat as you, that I love specific songs, not necessarily belonging to the same genre. By the way, while reading this, I just started playing some of these songs, my favorites from the list :-)
This is so fun to know! Thank you, Pubali. I hope you enjoyed it!
Renata - bye:myself
Tuesday 19th of January 2021
What a comprehensive and varied list - includes some of my favorite artists like Coldplay...totally unexpected. Nevertheless, you're actually starting with the cheesiest song ever - it really made me love - and then I had this tune for hours in my head.
Wednesday 20th of January 2021
Haha. I didn't think of that, Renata but I see it and agree with you :)
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80 Best Songs About Traveling: The Ultimate Travel Playlist?
Music can put you in the mood for many things, and one of those is travel! This list of the best songs about traveling will inspire you to hit the road and take the path less traveled!
Travel Songs
There’s something about travel that just begs for a good song. Maybe it’s the excitement of new places and experiences, or the nostalgia for past trips. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of great songs out there about travel.
A fantastic song about travel can make you feel like you’re already on your way to your next adventure. It can also be the perfect way to reminisce about a past trip. And, of course, a good travel song is the perfect addition to any road trip playlist.
On our last road trip around the Mani Peninsula of Greece , we collected some of our favourite songs to play along the way!
Related: Best Road Trip Food
Best Road Trips Songs
Why not put together the ultimate travel playlist to either inspire you to travel or to play while you're out on the road? Here's over 80 of our favorite songs about travel:
1. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
The song “Sweet Home Alabama” is about the band's hometown of Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The opening line “Big wheels keep on turnin'” definitely makes us think of long road trips!
2. “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson
This song captures the essence of living life on the road, and is an ode to the open road and the nomadic life of a touring musician. It’s been covered by many artists over the years, but we love the original version by Willie Nelson.
3. “Life on the Road” by Mumford & Sons Song
This song, from Mumford & Sons' album “Wilder Mind”, is a beautiful and nostalgic look at life traveling on the road. It's definitely one of our all-time favorites for road trips!
4. “Take the Long Way Home” by Supertramp Song
The song talks about the scenic route and enjoying the journey. It's a great one for road trips!
5. “Drivin' My Life Away” by Eddie Rabbit
This song is a classic driving anthem about being on the road and longing for home.
6. “I've Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash
This music is a country classic that lists all the places in the United States that Johnny Cash has been. It's a fun and adventurous tune that will have you dreaming of new destinations !
Related: Best Road trip captions
7. “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons Song
This upbeat, positive song is an ideal pick for your travel playlist. It's about dreaming big and going out into the world to get what you want.
8. “City of New Orleans” by Arlo Guthrie Song
This folk song by Arlo Guthrie is a nostalgic look back at train travel in America in the 1970s. It's an upbeat, heartwarming tune that will have you dreaming about your own train adventures.
9. “I'm Outta Here” by Shania Twain Song
This song is all about the excitement of hitting the road and heading out on an adventure. It's a great travel anthem no matter where you're going!
10. “Route 66” by Nat King Cole Song
This classic song by Nat King Cole is all about the iconic American road trip. It's a fun and easy-going tune that will put you in the mood for your own adventure.
11. “The Wanderer” by Dion Song
It tells the story of the nomadic life of a traveler. It's an energetic and upbeat tune that celebrates the freedom of just going where the road takes you.
13. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
This powerful ballad is all about the struggle to break free from the circumstances that hold you down, and it perfectly encapsulates the spirit of travel. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or an experienced adventurer, this song will speak to your soul.
14. “The Times They Are A-Changin'” by Bob Dylan
The classic song by Bob Dylan is all about social change, but it also perfectly captures the feeling of wanderlust. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to explore the world and see something new.
Related: Best movies about wanderlust
15. “Don't Stop Believin'” by Journey
This iconic song by the rock band Journey is all about following your dreams and never giving up. It's a great pick for those times when you need a little extra motivation to keep moving forward. Whether you're on a road trip or just trying to stick with your travel plans , this song will inspire you to keep going.
16. “I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers
This catchy, upbeat song is all about the freedom and excitement of traveling on your own terms. It's a great pick for anyone who's embarking on a solo adventure or just looking for some inspiration to get out there and explore the world. No matter where you're going, this song will make you want to keep moving forward.
17. “Road to Nowhere” by Talking Heads Song
A song about the uncertainty of travel and how you never really know what's around the corner. It's a powerful, introspective ballad that will make you think deeply about your adventures. If you're looking for something that will challenge you and give you a new perspective on travel, this is a perfect choice.
Related: Reasons Why Long Term Travel Is Cheaper Than Regular Vacations
18. “The Weight” by The Band Song
This song is all about the burdens we carry with us on our travels. It's a reflective and introspective tune that will make you think about the things you're carrying with you, both physically and emotionally. If you're looking for a song that will help you process your own travel experiences, this is a great choice.
19. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver
This classic song by John Denver is all about the heartbreak of leaving home and heading out into the world. It perfectly captures that bittersweet feeling of travel, when you know that things will never be quite the same once you leave.
20. “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight and the Pips Song
This iconic song by Gladys Knight and the Pips is all about traveling to a better, brighter future. It's a great anthem for anyone who's chasing their dreams or just looking for something new in life. Whether you're on your way to a new destination or just trying to make sense of your journey, this song will give you the inspiration and motivation you need to keep moving forward.
Related: Short Traveling Quotes
21. “Ramblin' Man” by The Allman Brothers Band
This song is all about the joys and challenges of the nomadic life. It's a great pick for anyone who's feeling restless and looking to hit the open road. If you're looking for a song that will make you want to jump in your car and start driving, this is the perfect choice.
22. “Viva Las Vegas” by Elvis Presley
This classic song by Elvis Presley is all about the excitement and energy of Sin City. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to let loose and have a good time. Whether you're headed to Vegas for a weekend or just looking for a little bit of escapism, this song will give you the perfect soundtrack.
23. “One Night in Bangkok” by Murray Head
The song talks about the exotic appeal of Bangkok . It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to experience something new and exciting. If you're headed to Thailand or just dreaming of far-off destinations, this song will take you there.
24. “I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For” by U2
This classic song by U2 is all about the search for meaning and purpose in life. It's a great pick for anyone who's feeling lost or just looking for something more. Whether you're on a journey of self-discovery or just trying to find your place in the world, this song will resonate with you.
25. “Wherever I May Roam” by Metallica
This song is all about the freedom and flexibility of the nomadic lifestyle. It's a great pick for anyone who's feeling restless and looking to hit the open road. If you're looking for a song that will make you want to jump in your car and start driving, this is the perfect choice.
26. “Wherever You Will Go” by The Calling
This song is all about the feeling of being lost and alone while traveling. It's a beautiful and introspective ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt lost while on the road. If you're looking for a song that will help you process your own travel experiences, this is a great choice.
27. “Road Trippin’ ” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
This upbeat, carefree tune is all about the joys of road tripping. It's a great pick for anyone who's hitting the road and looking for something that will put them in a good mood. No matter where your travels take you, this song will give you the energy and spirit to keep going.
Related: Travelling by Car: Advantages and Disadvantages
28. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show
This infectiously catchy folk-rock song is all about the thrill of adventure and seeing new places. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to travel and explore, whether it's their first time or their hundredth. This song will pump you up and get you ready for anything that comes your way.
29. “The Wanderer” by Dion
This song is all about the feeling of being lost and alone while traveling. It's a reflective and introspective tune that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt lost while on the road. If you're looking for a song that will help you process your own travel experiences, this is a great choice.
30. “Don't Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin
This upbeat, cheerful and fun song is all about being content and happy with where you are in life. It's a great pick for anyone who's on the road or just starting a new journey in life. No matter where your travels take you, this song will help you keep a positive attitude and just enjoy the ride.
31. “Easy” by Lionel Richie / Faith No More
This pop ballad is all about the feeling of being on the road and embracing all of the surprises that come along with it. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to travel and explore, whether it's their first time or their hundredth. This song will help you keep a positive attitude and just enjoy the ride.
32. “Dreamers of the Shore” by Volcan Peaks
This hauntingly beautiful tune is all about the feeling of being on the road and facing your fears. It's a powerful ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever set foot on a plane, train or automobile to look for something new. If you're looking for something that will help you process any travel-related fears, this song is a great choice.
33. “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane
The song, Somewhere Only We Know, is a piece of nostalgia. The lyrics circle around about something, someone, and somewhere he used to love. It is about finding and travelling back to the feelings he used to feel, activities he used to do, and the people and places he used to see. At the same time, this song will unfold a new emotion of how past look like and how it can change drastically that will make you reflect the temporariness in this world.
34. “The Longest Road” by Morgan Page feat. Lissie
This upbeat music will boost your excitement while travelling. This song will talk about the journey of life, and how it can affect you life. It is about enjoying, trying new things, create bonds, build memories, and making mistakes. This will make you feel the urge of always chasing things in order to live and create a meaningful life out of it.
35. “I Travel” by Simple Minds
This song is all about the feeling of homesickness while traveling. It's a beautiful and introspective ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever left their home behind to travel. Whether you're far from home or just missing your loved ones, this song is slightly melancholic but nice.
36. “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
In travelling, this song will comfort you as it will present the feeling of missing home while living in a different environment. It will likewise bring you motivation with the gratefulness of being in a new place. It will ignite different emotions, specifically the feeling of attachment, nearly love to someone, some place, or a moment that will keep you moving.
37. “Running to Stand Still” by U2
This song is all about the feeling of being on the road and facing your fears. It's a powerful ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever set foot on a plane, train or automobile to look for something new. If you're looking for something that will help you process any travel-related fears, this song is a great choice.
38. “The Road to Reno” by Guy Clark
This sad country tune is all about the feeling of traveling on the road with no end in sight. It's a powerful ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever left their home behind for an open-ended journey.
39. “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys
This fun and upbeat song is all about the feeling of being on a tropical island, far away from your troubles. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to travel to a new and exotic location. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of one, this song will help you relax and escape the everyday grind.
40. “California Dreaming” by The Mamas & The Papas
This song is all about the feeling of longing for home while you're on the road. It's a beautiful and introspective ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever left their home behind to travel. Whether you're far from home or just missing your loved ones, this song will make you feel right at ease.
Related: California Instagram Captions
41. “Somewhere over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
This beautiful and haunting song is all about the feeling of longing for home while you're on the road. It's a great pick for anyone who's ever left their home behind to travel, whether they're far from home or just missing their loved ones.
42. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay
This fun and groovy dance song is about feeling the emotions of being alive, again. This disco inspired music will motivate you to always carry on in life because it is an adventure, there's trouble and joy in it. This song will awaken us to the energy of life while travelling and to not lose it, hence the adventure of a lifetime.
43. “Paris” by The Chainsmokers
This electronic dance music is about finding independence with the ones you love and to live with. Paris is what the couple's trying to go and live the life they wanted away from the obstructions of their family, environmental trauma, and anxiety. Even though this song is about searching for the fantasy they wanted to live, this song gives people to motivation to dream, work on that dream and to make it come true, whether it's travelling or not.
Related: 100+ Paris Captions For Instagram For Your Beautiful City Photos
44. “Sleep on the Floor” by The Lumineers
This feel good music with its country tune and calming arrangement is about travelling away to the big bustling cities and making the most out of that impulsive decision even you're feeling out from you comfort zone. It will give you courage that in the journey of life, there's always the presence of troubles and unavoidable circumstances that you can overcome as long as you have someone with you.
45. “Heading Home” by Gryffin feat. Josef Salvat
Heading Home, an electronic dance music is a feel good music talking about the feeling of always longing to feel the comfort of a home. It will make you feel the known feeling of a traveller, being a lost person, yet pushes you to always move forward and enjoy the things life has thrown at you.
46. “Havana” by Camila Cabello
Havana is a song paying tribute to the artist's home country, Cuba. This dance music gives you the vibes of their culture, warmth, and love to their place. This song is associated to a love of a country by praising its beauty, romanticizing the relationships you can build, and treasuring the moments of travelling.
47. “Autumn Dawn” by Volcan Peaks
This music will serenade your ears while travelling a long road as bring comfort and calmness with the lyrics and its tune. Even though this song will give you comfort, the lyrics much more emphasize the feeling during a separation. This will bring enough sadness to the listeners to realize the growth you will encounter separating from a place, person, and moment among others.
Related: Best Autumn Instagram Captions
48. “Take Me Back To London ” by Ed Sheeran
This upbeat music is a vibe starter when travelling. It's about reminiscing a place where they grow up and travelling back to those moments through sharing their different stories. It's about realizing that a person can move forward in life and still be the person dreaming of what they have become.
49. “Travel Song” by Teleman
Travel Song, a feel good music, is a comforting music to hear when driving towards a destination. This song is about affection and risk, drawing matches between a widespread fire and a destined relationship. The music reflects the tone of the verses, as well — an incredible, irresistible harmony among poppy and fun-loving sentimentalism and serious, sobering acknowledgements
50. “Beach Bonfire” by Sandro
This comforting song is good lullaby during downtime or hours for siesta. From the title itself, it's about igniting your travel with beach bonfire and find comfort with it while enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. This song freezes a moment as it's very calm, and can make you realize and internalize the events during a trip.
51. “Stargazing” by Kygo feat. Justin Jesso
This is a hopeful song to everyone who's thinking they cannot get through something. The song is best for travelling especially when you're burn out or unmotivated to do such, it will give you courage to look forward of what's gonna happen. This was intentionally about the artist's ex-girlfriend finding her way to fix their relationship, but at the same time knowing that it will be okay otherwise, since there's always hope when you look up to the sky and see stars keep blazing.
52. “I’m like a Bird” by Nelly Furtado
This fun beat music will bring your feet on the move. The song talks about the freedom of a human as a bird has, but at the same time recognizing the impermanence of the abilities a human can do with that freedom. It's a good music during a trip on a summer knowing you're free from hectic schedule and heavy responsibilities.
53. “Anywhere” by Passenger
Passenger never really disappoint, especially with this song, giving us the feel good vibe when hitting off the road. It's about devotion, love, and commitment to someone when travelling, believing that it will always be remarkable as long it's with that significant other. Anywhere talks about a destination that can fulfill the dream and goal of couples driven by the want to travel and escape.
54. “Fly Away ” by Lenny Kravitz
This rock music will bring to a different dimension when travelling. The song purposively gives out a different feeling, yet so relatable as it is about escaping and going to a different place that you wish different from what you are currently living. It's a feel good music for people travelling objectifying their want for escape and adventure.
55. “Africa” by Toto
This song age like fine wine, it's really a very well-created piece of music, with driving drum circles, layered harmonies, and an anthemic tune. The comforting voice of the singer really gives you a good film moment while travelling. Not only that it pays tribute to the beauty of Africa , it will definitely give you the feeling of warmth and ease when travelling.
56. “Good Life” by One Republic
This upbeat song is best when you're travelling for your self's improvement. It's tied in with discarding your burdens and stresses and having a decent life, since you can as it centers around being the individual you need to be and not what others believe you should be. This tune truly radiates a great deal of sentiments, yet it's elevating and brings a peculiar inclination to the listeners.
57. “Wanderlust ” by Frank Turner
This country feel music will make you feel the moment while travelling. The song portrays one of Frank's heartfelt limbo, it puts to differentiate the reasonable and satisfying relationship he has with this young lady with his ceaseless desire for tour and travelling. With this song, you will feel motivated on the decisions you will be encountering regarding travels and tours.
58. “Ocean” by Martin Garrix feat Khalid
This calming, downtempo dance track highlights instrumentation by Dutch DJ Martin Garrix and vocals by American artist Khalid. This electronic dance music mainly talks about the power of love, using the ocean as metaphor that can't break a relationship. This music sets the active mood while travelling, it pumps your heart, break the awkwardness, and develop a strong start on a trip.
59. “Catch & Release” by Matt Simons
This song has an incredibly calming tune in any trip, when it discusses survival strategies through the battles in our lives. This discusses going to where without help from anyone else, yet it isn't forlorn… where someone can act naturally and find solace in self-reflection even in obscurity. This song resonates with every last one of us, the melody having a profound importance with its care meaning.
60. “Traveling On” by Kongos
Traveling On is a calming music that's best when travelling in a non-touristy village. It's a breathtaking song that soothes you blood, bones, and soul. It helps you to remember the little moments while travelling, at the same time makes wanna seize the day.
61. “Dreaming” by Smallpools
The song gets going with a tranquil sound that crescendos into a beat to set the bass of the tune that fits when you listen clearly when travelling. The tune has an exceptionally electronic sound to it, yet the artist's voice is genuine. All through the melody there is a feeling of anxiety and urgency of attempting to make a spot for yourself. The melody for the most part catches the inclination that the world is against you.
62. “These Days” by Foo Fighters
This rock music is best when travelling long serene roads, with its developing style from calm to rock. The song divulges on the idea that we must live life to the fullest, knowing and acknowledging that it's temporary and it may or will end these days. When going on a trip, we must not forget to always take risks, create memories, and be spontaneous.
63. “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf
Like any travel songs, this rock anthem is made for highways and unplanned trips. This song resonates the drive of motor riders travelling across countries by road, being wild and fun. The song, nonetheless represents to those who think they're born to be wild, being carefree, and worry less.
64. “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root
Send Me on My Way is a magical song that motivates you to keep moving forward when travelling with the warmth it expresses, and the soothing feeling it gives. This sets your happy mood when travelling, redefines your vision to the beauty of the traveled places, generates wonderful narratives when interacting with locals of you destinations, and releases your stress.
65. “Perfect Strangers” by Jonas Blue
This dance music will give you the vibe and mood when travelling in summer. It may originally be about two strangers found their charm with one another while travelling, it's nonetheless a summer anthem way back when it was released, with its catchy lyrics, and undeniably good electronic accompaniment.
66. “Let the Sun Shine” by Labrinth
Originally a country song, Let the Sun Shine was produced wonderfully to a hip-hop music, generating a new good travel music. It's about the new beginnings in our life every day, giving us another time to renew, enjoy, and live. This upbeat music is best when travelling with friends, and strangers as it will connect your thoughts and mood during a trip.
67. “Beautiful Day” by U2
This iconic song is amazing when travelling alone, to be able to reflect that life may take away a lot from you, there will always be joy on what remained. This rock music gives you the vibes and good mood going abroad. This song will make you look for hope and beauty in this world even with its existing nightmares.
68. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
This timeless song really resonates with the ones always travelling and always on the hope to be home as soon as possible. This may be a song about home-sickness, the tune will always be remembered and used while travelling long roads. The undeniably good rhythm and its meaningful lyrics will always have a special place in all traveller's heart.
69. “Heart Of Gold” by Neil Young
This classic song expresses the longing for love and hope to never give up. This calming music is best when travelling with the car windows down while feeling the wind brushing your skin and listen as it whispers your wind. The soothing voices and mellow rhythm of the song is also good when you're taking a rest after a long day of a trip.
70. “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel
The Sound of Silence may be an empowering song to those oppressed and unprivileged, it likewise encourages people to not be afraid to talk to people especially when travelling alone. This song is the best company when having a down time during a trip, as it recognizes the importance of solo time when overwhelmed, especially during a travel.
71. “With or Without you” by U2
With or Without You, is a song about moving forward that's translated by travellers into a good solo travel song. This rock classic is a good jam of any ages, since it's relatable at some point in life. The sentimental foundation of the song makes it a great song when going for a trip, best played in a radio on a random setting.
72. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain?” by CCR
This timeless country music is about having a beautiful, sunny, and vibrant life and knowing that there will be rainy times as well. This music is a vibe when driving on a countryside moving across borders. It's best when travelling with friends and deciding on spontaneous stops for fun and adventure. It is an anthem for a road trip.
73. “Linger” by The Cranberries
The love song turned to a travel anthem is about the things you do when in love. This classic song has become the anthem of most travellers crossing borders and going out their comfort zone. With the soothing voice and beautifully arranged dynamics, makes this song a remarkable to any ages when going for a trip.
74. “Days of Silence” by Las Lunas
This calm music is great way to feed your ears with ease and help your mind find sanity when travelling. The beautifully written lyrics and its soothing tune will bring you peace of mind. When travelling, it's best to listen it at night, to wrap up the day with good music and deep reflection of the trip.
75. “I'm Thinking About You” by Windshield
I'm Thinking About You is a great song when unwinding, just sitting on your rented cabin, chilling with the sound of nature, and live on your thoughts. It's best when camping with friends or any of your love ones, as it will unleash your authenticity as your principle for love. This song will bring you to your thoughts that can help you generate reflections throughout.
Related: Best Nature Quotes
76. “Like Stone” by Daniel Gunnarson
This acoustic song will bring you a smile when travelling as it will set your positive mood when travelling. The calming arrangement of the song soothes your soul and washes all you stress and worries. This will ignite you drive on documenting the trip to freeze the moments and treasure it with all you heart.
77. “Feel your Blue Sky” by Bothnia
The song may start melancholic, the song delivers a powerful message of courage. This song is calming and comforting to the heart, and best when travelling to an isolated island or listened with radios on long quiet road. The song is best company for couple or solo travellers, as it will give you sanity and ease.
78. “Cornelia” by The Eastern Plain
This angelic song is best when you're travelling for peace and sanity. This song will bring you in a different beautiful dimension, and reframes your vision to the positive thoughts when travelling. The song is great when going to high altitudes and look down to the beautiful scenery of the city.
79. “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton
Some of the riffs for this hit song were written when Vanessa Carlton was just 17 years old. First released in 2002, the music video sees Vanessa being driven on a cross country road trip in America playing a piano.
Related: Camp Quotes
80. “Roam” by The B-52's
I've added this thanks to a reader's comment! The unmistaken style of the B-53's hits you from the opening, and the up-beat catchy chorus and melody quickly puts you in a happy place – no matter where you are in the world!
Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without anything but the love we feel
Did the B-52's ever get the lasting recognition they fully deserve? Probably not, which is a real shame. Check it out on YouTube here: Roam
What makes a good travel song?
We think a good travel song should either inspire wanderlust or evoke memories of past trips . It should also have a catchy melody that will stay in your head long after the journey is over!
Why do people love songs about travel so much?
Songs about travel have a way of capturing the excitement, adventure , and sense of possibility that comes with hitting the open road. They can also be incredibly nostalgic, reminding us of past trips and all the places we’ve been.
How to make a perfect traveling playlist ?
To make the perfect traveling playlist, start by thinking about what kinds of travel experiences you want to evoke. Do you want a playlist that will get you pumped up for your next big adventure? Or one that will soothe homesick feelings and help you relax while on the road?
You might also consider choosing songs with lyrics that reflect your own feelings about travel, whether it’s excitement at the unknown or a sense of longing for home.
Once you have your ideas in place, put together a playlist that incorporates a variety of different artists and genres to keep things interesting! And don’t forget to pack your headphones so you can enjoy your songs in style on your next trip .
Tips for using music to enhance your travel experience :
1. Take some time to think about the kind of experiences you want to have while traveling, and then create a playlist that will help you get in the right mindset.
2. Consider choosing music with lyrics that reflect your own feelings about travel, whether it’s excitement at the unknown or a sense of longing for home.
3. Prioritize listening to your playlist while on the road, whether you’re driving or flying. This can help you get in the right mindset for your trip and make it more enjoyable.
4. Don’t forget to pack a good set of earbuds so you can enjoy your music in style at any time during your travels.
5. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the journey! Music can play a big role in making any trip more memorable and enjoyable.
Related: Songs about bicycles
Travel Songs Playlist Final thoughts
Travel and music go together like peanut butter and jelly. Whether you're hitting the open road on an epic road trip or jetting off to a new and exotic destination, music can help set the mood and enhance your travel experience.
If you're looking for some great songs about travel, we recommend checking out tracks by Guy Clark, The Beach Boys, and The Mamas & the Papas. And don't forget to pack your headphones so you can enjoy your music in style on your next trip!
What's are your best road trip songs? What do you consider to be the ultimate travel song? Let us know in the comments below!
5 thoughts on “80 Best Songs About Traveling: The Ultimate Travel Playlist?”
After a year on the road, these suggestions, and the songs they brought to mind, has expanded my traveling playlist from a few dozen to more than a hundred. Thanks a million, Dave!
Shocked not to see Roam by the B52’s?!
So am I! I’ll try to add it in over the next week or so!
Another great tune that I have never seen on any “Travel Song” list is “Born to Wander” by the Rare Earth on their 1970 album “Ecology”.
The members of Lynyrd Skynyrd did not grow up in muscle shoals Alabama. They grew up in Jacksonville, Florida.
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Insider’s Guide to the 100+ Best Songs about Travel
By: Author Girl with the Passport
Posted on Last updated: July 7, 2022
Categories Travel Tips
Looking for an expertly curated, super comprehensive selection of the all-time best songs about travel ?
If so then this list of 100+ best songs about travel is DEFFO for you. I mean, not only have I been traveling the world for the past 15+ years but I also love music.
So, when I’m not traveling, you can find me rocking out to some of the best songs about travel on this list.
Yeah, you may or may not find me hardcore lip-synching to some of these best travel songs while I dance around my room like Elaine from Seinfeld .
Heck, I even listen to a lot of these sick beats when I’m on the road and jamming to my very own travel songs playlist .
Therefore, if you’re in need of a bit of musical inspiration then give this list of the best songs about travel a read.
Because whether you’re traveling to New York, San Francisco, or somewhere in between, you’re sure to find the top travel songs for you!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
1. Alaska by Maggie Rogers
“I was walking through icy streams
That took my breath away
Moving slowly through westward water
Over glacial plains
And I walked off you
And I walked off an old me
Oh me, oh my, I thought it was a dream
So it seemed”
2. Taj Mahal by Sam Roberts Band
“Sitting with you on the banks of the Ganges
Stealing a kiss on the streets of Bombay
Caressing your hair like the wind through the palm trees
I never dreamed that anyone could take you away
Keep on keep on keep on singing
I’m building a beautiful statue
To make sure that no one forgets you”
3. Carolina in My Mind by James Taylor
“In my mind I’m gone to Carolina
Can’t you see the sunshine?
Can’t you just feel the moonshine?
And, ain’t it just like a friend of mine
To hit me from behind?
Yes, I’m gone to Carolina in my mind”
4. New York State of Mind by Billy Joel
Some folks like to get away
Take a holiday from the neighborhood
Hop a flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood
But I’m takin’ a Greyhound on the Hudson River line
I’m in a New York state of mind”
Pro Tip: Be sure to check out some of the other best songs about NYC . This is also just one of my personal picks for best travel songs since I’m from New York.
5. Hello Seattle by Owl City
“Hello Seattle, I am a manta ray
Deep beneath the blue waves
I’ll crawl the sandy bottom of Puget Sound
And construct my summer home”
6. Miles from Minnesota by The Lower 48
“Yes next year we’ll go traveling
Our escapades so baffling
Our sovereign love returning to the sea
We’ll be miles from Minnesota then
Writing letters we won’t send
For no words shall contain what will be
Well your sweet voice and my rough hands
When darkness prowls we will dance
Through bluffs and fields and orchards with the moon
Yes next year we will leave this place summer’s kiss is just a taste
Fall’s warm embrace is coming to us soon
Oh! We’ve got everywhere to go
You should sleep, I’ll see you in the morning”
7. God Blessed Texas by Little Texas
“God blessed Texas
With His own hand
Brought down angels from the promised land
Gave ’em a place where they could dance
If you want to see heaven, brother, here’s you chance
I’ve been sent to spread the message
God blessed Texas”
8. Graceland by Paul Simon
“The Mississippi Delta was shining
Like a National guitar
I am following the river
Down the highway
Through the cradle of the civil war
I’m going to Graceland”
9. Miles Away by The Maine
“I took a trip up the west coast
Was searching for a temp so low
And a summer high
The Sun swayed and set slow
Made waves with some friends I know
Got lost in the ebb and flow
Of the drifting tide
I didn’t ever want to come down
From that west coast rush and summer high
And easy, peaceful sense of time”
10. I’m Shipping Up To Boston by Dropkick Murphys
“I’m a sailor peg
And I’ve lost my leg
Climbing up the top sails
I’ve lost my leg!
I’m shipping up to Boston, whoa
I’m shipping off to find my wooden leg”
11. Lovers in Japan by Coldplay
“Tonight, maybe we’re gonna run
Dreamin’ of the Osaka sun
Ohh, ohh, ohhh
Dreamin’ of when the morning comes”
12. Aux Champs-Élysées by Joe Dassin
“Aux Champs-Elysées, aux Champs-Elysées
Au soleil, sous la pluie, à midi ou à minuit
Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Elysées”
And in English:
“Champs-Elysees, Champs-Elysees
In the sun, in the rain, at noon or midnight
There is everything you want on the Champs-Elysées”
I’m Shipping Up To Boston – Dropkick Murphys
I’m a sailor peg
13. Rock the Casbah by The Clash
“Sharif don’t like it
Rockin’ the Casbah
Rock the Casbah
Sharif don’t like it
Rock the Casbah”
14. Brazil by Declan McKenna
“I wanna play the beautiful game while I’m in Brazil
‘Cause everybody plays the beautiful game while out in Brazil
‘Cause it’s all you’ve ever wanted, and it’s all that you want still
Don’t you wanna play the beautiful game out in Brazil?”
15. Surfin’ USA by The Beach Boys
“Haggerties and Swamies
Pacific Palisades
San Anofree and Sunset
Redondo Beach L. A.
All over La Jolla
At Waimea Bay
Everybody’s gone surfin’
Surfin’ U.S. A.”
16. California by Phantom Planet
“Hustlers grab your guns
Your shadow weighs a ton
Driving down the 101
California here we come
Right back where we started from
California, here we come.”
17. Mexico by James Taylor
“Way down here you need a reason to move
Feel a fool running your stateside games
Lose your load, leave your mind behind Baby Jane
It sounds so simple I just got to go
The sun’s so hot I forgot to go home
Guess I’ll have to go now”
18. Beverly Hills by Weezer
“Beverly Hills
That’s where I want to be (gimme, gimme)
Livin’ in Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills
Rollin’ like a celebrity (gimme, gimme)
Livin’ in Beverly Hills”
19. Barcelona by George Ezra
“Every time you have to go
Shut my eyes and you know
I’ll be lying right by your side
In Barcelona”
20. Rocky Road to Dublin by The Irish Descendants
Well in Dublin next arrived, I thought it’d be a pity
To be so soon deprived a view of that fine city
So then I took a stroll down among the quality
Me bundle it was stolen in a neat locality
Something crossed me mind, then I looked behind
No bundle could I find upon me stick a-wobblin’
Inquiring for the rogue, said me connaught brogue wasn’t much in vogue
On the rocky road to Dublin”
21. America by Simon & Garfunkel
“Cathy, I said as we boarded a Greyhound in Pittsburgh
Michigan seems like a dream to me now
It took me four days to hitchhike from Saginaw
I’ve gone to look for America”
22. Walking in Memphis by Marc Cohn
“Saw the ghost of Elvis
On Union Avenue
Followed him up to the gates of Graceland
Then I watched him walk right through
Now security they did not see him
They just hovered ’round his tomb
But there’s a pretty little thing
Waiting for the King
Down in the Jungle Room
When I was walking in Memphis
I was walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale
Walking in Memphis
But do I really feel the way I feel?”
23. Africa by Toto
“The wild dogs cry out in the night
As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company
I know that I must do what’s right
As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti
I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become
It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There’s nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do
I bless the rains down in Africa
Gonna take some time to do the things we never have”
Pro Tip: Weezer also did a fantastic cover of this song in 2018 that you should DEFFO add to your list of best travel songs today.
24. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) by Shakira
“Today’s your day
You paved the way
If you get down get up oh oh
When you get down get up eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
This time for Africa”
25. Marrakech Express by Crosby, Stills, & Nash
“Take the train from Casablanca going south
Blowing smoke rings from the corners of my my, my, my, my mouth
Colored cottons hang in air
Charming cobras in the square
Striped jellabas we can wear at home
Don’t you know we’re riding on the Marrakesh Express”
26. Blue Hawaii by Elvis Presley
“Come with me
While the moon is on the sea
The night is young
And so are we, so are we
Dreams come true
In blue Hawaii”
27. I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash
“I’ve been everywhere, man
I’ve been everywhere, man
Crossed the deserts bare, man
I’ve breathed the mountain air, man
Travel, I’ve had my share, man
I’ve been everywhere
I’ve been to
Winslow”
28. Rio by Netsky and featuring Macklemore
“It’s the “Rio” remix, you should see us
Swimming in the ocean like the pool is hella heated
Expedited Visa and I’m posted with my feet up
Parasailing over beaches, got my girl from Ipanema”
29. Back in the U.S.S.R. by The Beatles
“Well the Ukraine girls really knock me out
They leave the West behind
And Moscow girls make me sing and shout
That Georgia’s always on my mind
Aw come on!
Yeah I’m back in the U.S.S.R.
You don’t know how lucky you are boys
Back in the U.S.S.R.”
30. April in Paris by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
“I never knew the charm of spring
I never met it face to face
I never knew my heart could sing
I never missed a warm embrace
Till April in Paris, chestnuts in blossom
Holiday tables under the trees
April in Paris, this is a feeling”
31. Budapest by George Ezra
“My house in Budapest
My hidden treasure chest
Golden grand piano
My beautiful Castillo
I’d leave it all
My acres of a land
I have achieved
It may be hard for you to
Stop and believe
But for you
I’d Leave it all
Give me one good reason
Why I should never make a change
And baby if you hold me
Then all of this will go away.”
32. Viva Las Vegas by Elvis Presley
Bright light city gonna set my soul
Gonna set my soul on fire
Got a whole lot of money that’s ready to burn
So get those stakes up higher
There’s a thousand pretty women waitin’ out there
And they’re all livin’ devil may care
And I’m just the devil with love to spare
Viva Las Vegas, viva Las Vegas”
33. Vienna by Ultravox
“The music is weaving
Haunting notes, pizzicato strings
The rhythm is calling
Alone in the night as the daylight brings
A cool empty silence
The warmth of your hand and a cold grey sky
It fades to the distance
The image has gone only you and I
It means nothing to me
This means nothing to me
Oh, Vienna”
34. Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight & the Pips
“He’s leaving (leaving)
On that midnight train to Georgia (leaving on a midnight train)
Said he’s going back (going back to find)
To a simpler place and time (and when he takes that ride)
Oh yes, he is (guess who’s gonna sit right by his side)”
35. Malibu by Miley Cyrus
“But here I am
Next to you
The sky is so blue
Next to you”
36. New York Groove by Ace Frehley
“Many years since I was here
On the street I was passin’ my time away
To the left and to the right,
Buildings towering to the sky
It’s outta sight in the dead of night
Here I am, and in this city, with a fistful of dollars
And baby, you’d better believe
I’m back, back in the New York groove”
37. Road to Nowhere by the Talking Heads
“We’re on a road to nowhere
Come on inside
Takin’ that ride to nowhere
We’ll take that ride”
38. California Love by Tupac and Dr. Dre
“Say what you say, but give me that bomb beat from Dre
Let me serenade the streets of L.A
From Oakland to Sacktown
The Bay Area and back down
Cali is where they put they mack down give me love!
California, knows how to party
In the city of L.A.
In the city of good ol’ Watts
In the city, the city of Compton
We keep it rocking”
39. Renegades by X Ambassadors
“Run away-ay with me
Lost souls in revelry
Running wild and running free
Two kids, you and me
Hey, hey-hey-hey
Livin’ like we’re renegades
Hey-hey-hey
Renegades.”
Pro Tip: This is a fantastic song that is highly underrated IMHO. So, be sure to add it to your playlist filled with the best songs about travel.
40. Miami by Will Smith
“Party in the city where the heat is on
All night, on the beach till the break of dawn
‘Welcome to Miami’
‘Bienvenidos a Miami’
Bouncin’ in the club where the heat is on
I’m goin to Miami
‘Welcome to Miami'”
41. The Wanderer by Dion DiMucci
“I’m the type of guy that likes to roam around
I’m never in one place I roam from town to town
And when I find myself a-fallin’ for some girl, yeah
I hop right into that car of mine and ride around the world
Yeah I’m the wanderer, yeah the wanderer
I roam around around around, let’s go”
42. Hotel California by The Eagles
“Welcome to the Hotel California
Such a lovely place (Such a lovely place)
Such a lovely face
Plenty of room at the Hotel California
Any time of year (Any time of year)
You can find it here.”
43. Where the Streets Have No Name by U2
“Where the streets have no name
Where the streets have no name
We’re still building then burning down love
Burning down love
And when I go there, I go there with you
It’s all I can do.”
44. Empire State of Mind by Jay-Z and featuring Alicia Keys
“In New York (Ay, aha) (Uh, yeah)
Concrete jungle (Yeah) where dreams are made of
There’s nothing you can’t do (Yeah) (OK)
Now you’re in New York (Aha, aha, aha) (Uh, yeah)
These streets will make you feel brand-new (New)
Big lights will inspire you (Come on) (OK)
Let’s hear it for New York (You welcome, OG) (Uh)
New York (Yeah), New York (Uh)”
45. Around the World by Daft Punk
“Around the world, around the world
Around the world, around the world
Around the world, around the world”
46. Down Under by Men at Work
“Buying bread from a man in Brussels
He was six foot four and full of muscle
I said, “Do you speak-a my language?”
He just smiled and gave me a Vegemite sandwich
And he said:
I come from a land down under
Where beer does flow and men chunder
Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder
You better run, you better take cover.”
47. Traveling On by The Decemberists
“Cause we’re traveling on
Sold for a song
We’re traveling on
And it won’t be long
‘Til we’re traveling on”
48. Hopeless Wanderer by Mumford & Sons
“But hold me fast, hold me fast
‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer
And hold me fast, hold me fast
‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer”
49. When I’m Gone (The Cups Song) by Anna Kendrick
“I’ve got my ticket for the long way ‘round
The one with the prettiest of views
It’s got mountains, it’s got rivers, it’s got sights to give you shivers
But it sure would be prettier with you
When I’m gone
You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone
You’re gonna miss me by my walk
You’re gonna miss me by my talk, oh
You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone”
50. Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen
“Someday girl I don’t know when
We’re gonna get to that place
Where we really wanna go
And we’ll walk in the sun
But till then tramps like us
Baby we were born to run”
51. Moon River by Audrey Hepburn
“Two drifters, off to see the world
There’s such a lot of world to see
We’re after the same rainbow’s end, waitin’ ’round the bend
My huckleberry friend, moon river, and me”
52. Life is a Highway by Rascal Flatts
“Life is a highway
I wanna ride it all night long
If you’re going my way
I wanna drive it all night long”
53. Kathmandu by Bob Seger
“I think I’m going to Katmandu
That’s really, really where I’m going to
If I ever get out of here
That’s what I’m gonna do
I know my plane is due
The one that’s going to Katmandu
Up to the mountain’s where I’m going to
K-k-k-k-k-k Kathmandu”
54. The Passenger by Iggy Pop
“I am a passenger
And I ride and I ride
I ride through the city’s backside
I see the stars come out of the sky
Yeah, they’re bright in a hollow sky
You know it looks so good tonight
I am a passenger
I stay under glass
I look through my window so bright
I see the stars come out tonight
I see the bright and hollow sky
Over the city’s ripped-back sky
And everything looks good tonight”
55. Havana by Camila Cabello
“Havana, ooh na-na
Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh na-na
He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na, ah
Oh, but my heart is in Havana”
56. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman
“You got a fast car
Is it fast enough so we can fly away?
We gotta make a decision
Leave tonight or live and die this way”
57. Paris by The Chainsmokers
“We were staying in Paris
To get away from your parents
You look so proud
Standing there with a frown and a cigarette
Posting pictures of yourself on the internet”
58. Hotel Walls by Smith & Thell
“So I stand back and I watch us fall
As we break everything inside these hotel walls
Life’s for rent and it called us out
So I hand back the key as the door man bows”
Pro Tip: This is a really great Swedish band and you should listen to some of their other best travel songs too, like Forgive Me, Friend .
59. Vacation by The Go-Go’s
“Vacation
All I ever wanted
Had to get away
Meant to be spent alone”
60. On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons
‘Cause I’m on top of the world, ‘ey
I’m on top of the world, ‘ey
Waiting on this for a while now
Paying my dues to the dirt
I’ve been waiting to smile, ‘ey
Been holding it in for a while, ‘ey
Take it with me if I can
Been dreaming of this since a child
I’m on top of the world”
61. No Sleep Till Brooklyn by The Beastie Boys
“No sleep ’till
No sleep ’till Brooklyn
No sleep till Brooklyn”
62. Barcelona by Ed Sheeran
“And you and I we’re flying on an airplane tonight
We’re going somewhere where the sun is shining bright
Just close your eyes
And let’s pretend we’re dancing in the street
In Barcelona
Barcelona”
63. Homeward Bound by Simon & Garfunkel
“Every day’s an endless stream
Of cigarettes and magazines
And each town looks the same to me, the movies and the factories
And every stranger’s face I see reminds me that I long to be
Homeward bound
I wish I was
Home where my thought’s escaping
Home where my music’s playing
Home where my love lies waiting
Silently for me”
64. Tennessee by Arrested Development
“They tell me my ears are so young
Go back, from whence you came
My family tree, my family name
For some strange reason it had to be
He guided me to Tennessee
Take me to another place, take me to another land
Make me forget all that hurts me, let me understand your plan”
65. In America by Neil Diamond
“Everywhere around the world
They’re coming to America
Every time that flag’s unfurled
Got a dream to take them there
Got a dream they’ve come to share
They’re coming to America”
66. No Roots by Alice Merton
“I like standing still, but that’s just a wishful plan
Ask me where I come from, I’ll say a different land
But I’ve got memories and travel like gypsies in the night
I count gates and numbers, then play the guessing game
It’s just the place that changes, the rest is still the same
And a thousand times I’ve seen this road
A thousand times
I’ve got no roots, but my home was never on the ground”
67. California Dreamin’ by the Mamas and the Papas
“All the leaves are brown (all the leaves are brown)
And the sky is gray (and the sky is gray)
I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk)
On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day)
I’d be safe and warm (I’d be safe and warm)
If I was in L.A. (if I was in L.A.)
California dreamin’ (California dreamin’)
On such a winter’s day”
68. Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus
“I hopped off the plane at LAX
With a dream and my cardigan
Welcome to the land of fame excess (Whoa)
Am I gonna fit in?
Jumped in the cab, here I am for the first time
Look to my right, and I see the Hollywood sign
This is all so crazy
Everybody seems so famous
My tummy’s turnin’ and I’m feelin’ kinda homesick
Too much pressure and I’m nervous
That’s when the taxi man turned on the radio
And a JAY-Z song was on
So I put my hands up
They’re playin’ my song, the butterflies fly away
I’m noddin’ my head like, “Yeah”
Movin’ my hips like, “Yeah”
Got my hands up, they’re playing my song
You know I’m gonna be okay
Yeah, it’s a party in the U.S.A.
Yeah, it’s a party in the U.S.A.”
69. Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran
“You know, she played the fiddle in an Irish band
But she fell in love with an Englishman
Kissed her on the neck and then I took her by the hand
Said, “Baby, I just wanna dance”
With my pretty little Galway girl
You’re my pretty little Galway girl”
70. Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz
I want to get away
I want to fly away
Yeah, yeah, yeah”
71. Kokomo by The Beach Boys
“Aruba, Jamaica, ooh, I want to take you to
Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama
Key Largo, Montego, baby, why don’t we go?
Ooh, I want to take you down to Kokomo
We’ll get there fast and then we’ll take it slow
That’s where we want to go, way down in Kokomo”
72. Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffett
“Wastin’ away again in Margaritaville
Searchin’ for my lost shaker of salt
Salt, salt, salt
Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame
I agree with that
And I know it’s all you women’s fault”
73. Have Love Will Travel by The Sonics
Yeah, I travel from Maine to Mexico
Just to find a little girl that loves me so
No matter when, no matter where I’ll be
I’m looking for a woman that’ll satisfy me
Whoa, baby, will travel
I said, yeah, yeah, have love
Woah, baby, will travel
I said, if you need loving then
Mm, hmm, I’ll travel
Woah!”
74. Chicago by Sufjan Stevens
“I fell in love again
All things go, all things go
Drove to Chicago
All things know, all things know”
75. One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head
“One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster
The bars are temples but the pearls ain’t free
You’ll find a god in every golden cloister
A little flesh, a little history
I can feel an angel sliding up to me”
76. Leaving on a Jetplane by John Denver
“So kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go”
77. I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers
“But I would roll 500 miles
And I would roll 500 more
Just to be the man who roles a thousand miles
To fall down at your door”
78. Ramblin’ Man by The Allman Brothers Band
“I’m on my way to New Orleans this mornin’
I’m leavin’ out of Nashville, Tennessee
They’re always having a good time down on the bayou
Lord, them Delta women think the world of me
Lord, I was born a ramblin’ man
Tryin’ to make a livin’ and doin’ the best I can
And when it’s time for leavin’
I hope you’ll understand
That I was born a ramblin’ man”
79. Istanbul (Not Constantinople) by They Might Be Giants
“Every gal in Constantinople
Lives in Istanbul, not Constantinople
So if you’ve a date in Constantinople
She’ll be waiting in Istanbul
Even old New York was once New Amsterdam
Why they changed it I can’t say
People just liked it better that way”
80. Vertigo by FM Belfast
“We are going far away
We are going far away
Don’t you look down
You are high above ground
We are driving with our friends
We are driving to a faraway place”
81. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd
“Sweet home Alabama
Where the skies are so blue
Sweet home Alabama
Lord, I’m comin’ home to you”
82. On the Road Again by Willie Nelson
“On the road again
Like a band of gypsies, we go down the highway
We’re the best of friends
Insisting that the world keep turning our way
And our way
Is on the road again”
83. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf
“Born to be wild
Born to be wild
Get your motor runnin’
Head out on the highway
Looking for adventure
In whatever comes our way”
84. Roam by The B-52’s
“Roam if you want to
Roam around the world
Roam if you want to
Without wings, without wheels
Without anything but the love we feel”
85. Send Me on My Way by Rusted Root
Well, I would like to hold my little hand
And we will run, we will, we will crawl, we will
I would like to hold my little hand
And we will run, we will, we will crawl
Send me on my way (on my way)”
86. Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver
“Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads”
87. San Francisco by Scott McKenzie
“If you’re going to San Francisco
Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair
If you’re going to San Francisco
You’re gonna meet some gentle people there.”
88. London Calling by The Clash
“The ice age is coming, the sun is zooming in
Engines stop running, the wheat is growin’ thin
A nuclear era, but I have no fear
‘Cause London is drowning, and I, I live by the river”
89. Wonderwall by Oasis (Popular amongst guitar players in hostels the world over)
“And all the roads we have to walk are winding
And all the lights that lead us there are blinding
There are many things that I would like to say to you, but I don’t know how
Because maybe
You’re gonna be the one that saves me
And after all
You’re my wonderwall”
Random Aside : Honestly, if you haven’t heard someone play this pick for one of the best travel songs on their guitar in a hostel, have you really traveled? And the correct answer is, probably not!
90. Come Fly With Me by Frank Sinatra
“Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away
If you can use some exotic booze
There’s a bar in far Bombay
Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away.”
91. Truckin’ by the Grateful Dead
“Truckin’, like the do-dah man
Once told me, ‘You’ve got to play your hand’
Sometimes the cards ain’t worth a dime
If you don’t lay ’em down.”
92. What We Live For by American Authors
“We’re taking off, woo
We’re taking off, woo
This is what I live for
Baby, you’re my open road.”
93. Holiday by Madonna
“If we took a holiday
Took some time to celebrate
Just one day out of life
It would be, it would be so nice.”
94. Gravity by Cold Play
“Baby
It’s been a long time coming
Such a long, long time
And I can’t stop running
Can you hear my heart beating?
Can you hear that sound?
‘Cause I can’t help thinking
And I won’t stop now“
95. Leaving Las Vegas by Cheryl Crow
“I’m leaving Las Vegas
Lights so bright, palm sweat, blackjack on a Saturday night
Leaving Las Vegas
Leaving for good, for good
I’m leaving for good
I’m leaving for good”
96. Free by Donovan Frankenreiter
“Here comes corner winds and the changin’ tide
We better drop them sails and get inside
When will the weather ever let us go
I guess we’ll have to wait until the trade winds blow”
97. Come Away with Me by Norah Jones
“Come away with me and we’ll kiss
On a mountain top
Come away with me
And I’ll never stop lovin’ you”
98. American Boy by Estelle and featuring Kanye West
“Take me on a trip, I’d like to go some day
Take me to New York, I’d love to see LA
I really want to come kick it with you
You’ll be my American boy.”
99. Destination Calabria by Alex Gaudino featuring Crystal Waters
“I left my job, my boss, my car and my home
I’m leaving for a destination I still don’t know”
100. Toes by the Zac Brown Band
“I got my toes in the water, ass in the sand
Not a worry in the world, a cold beer in my hand
Life is good today”
101. Last Train Home by John Mayer
“I’m on the last train runnin’
I’m on the last train runnin’
And I surrender
And I surrender”
102. Two Tickets To Paradise by Eddie Money
“I’m gonna take you on a trip so far from here,
I’ve got two tickets in my pocket, now baby, we’re gonna disappear.
We’ve waited so long, waited so long.
We’ve waited so long, waited so long.“
103. Do You Want to See the World by the Kooks
“Do you want to see the world?
In a different way, yeah”
104. A Million Miles Away by David Byrne
“Oh oh
A million miles away from here”
105. Space Oddity by David Bowie
“This is Major Tom to Ground Control
I’m stepping through the door
And I’m floating in a most peculiar way
And the stars look very different today
Am I sitting in a tin can
Far above the world
Planet Earth is blue
And there’s nothing I can do”
Additional Travel Resources You’ll Love
- Best Travel Quotes
- Best Travel Captions for Instagram
- Best Songs About West Virginia
There you have it! That just about wraps up this list of the best travel songs of all time!
Tell me, did your favorite road trip songs make the list if not then let. me know in the comments below, and if you found this post about the best travel songs useful, don’t forget to pin this post now so that you can read it again later.
Privacy Overview
72 Best Songs about Travel and Adventure
Published by sarah vaughan on february 9, 2022 february 9, 2022.
In this article, we list our top 72 favorite songs about travel and adventure, with the option to listen to them on a Spotify playlist. As full-time nomads and constant road-trippers, we spend a lot of time in the car, which means hours upon hours of listening to music. In 2021 alone, we drove over 10,000 miles on our journey from Virginia to California and back. So needless to say, we spend an inordinate amount of time listening to music in the car.
Often, we find ourselves gravitating towards songs that align with our two favorite things – travel and adventure, but it can be hard to find songs that fit that mood. Songs that inspire wanderlust, that make you feel like a you just took a deep breath of mountain air, that remind you of a travel memory, or, in their own unique way, perfectly capture the essence of life on the road. It’s not one particular genre or type of music, just anything that makes you feel inspired to pack your bags and go on an adventure !
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Our life as nomads
In March of 2021, we sold most our belongings, packed up what was left into our Jeep Cherokkee, left our apartment in Virginia and hit the road: California bound! We drove from Virginia to St. Louis before making our way to Denver.
After spending a week in Denver, we continued to Southern California, then to southern Utah, Arizona, northern California, Idaho, South Dakota, Minnesota… eventually we decided we loved life on the road too much to ever give it up and we made this nomadic lifestyle permanent.
We both secured jobs that would allow us to work remotely full-time during the week and are now full-time nomads. We typically settle into a new “home base” each month with space for us both to work, usually in small towns strategically located near beautiful places with abundant opportunities for outdoor adventuring.
P.S: You can read more about us here and keep up with our road trip adventures here .
Inspiration for our Songs about Travel & Adventure Playlist
We love listening to music that stokes our wanderlust and gets us excited for new adventures. We’ve found it tough to find songs that fit that bill, so we’ve been slowly compiling our own playlist as we come across songs we relate to.
Our lifestyle demands a lot of road tripping, and over the many miles and hours in the car, we’ve crafted the perfect playlist of songs about travel and adventure that we’re excited to share with you!
We hope our playlist will leave you feeling inspired to get out there and see the world!
Details | 64 Best Songs about Travel & Adventure
Our music taste tends to lean towards the Folk, Americana, and blues-y Country genres, and that’s mainly what you’ll find on this playlist.
A few of our favorite bands, like Caamp , Trampled by Turtles , Turnpike Troubadours (we are beyond thrilled they are back together!), Lord Huron , and The National Parks, make an appearance on the list a few times. We hope you love these songs as much as we do, and that our playlist inspires you to hit the road, start a new adventure, or discover a new place that you love!
In the article below, we list our favorite songs about adventure and travel, sorted roughly into the following categories:
- Wanderlust & travel inspiration songs
- Songs about the outdoors and nature
Songs about road tripping
Songs inspired by specific locations.
And if you don’t see one of your favorites, let us know! We are always looking for new music and would love to add new songs to the list.
Download our Songs about Travel & Adventure Spotify Playlist
For our complete list of songs about travel and adventure already in playlist form and ready for your enjoyment, enter your email below and we’ll send you a link to download our ultimate travel playlist on Spotify.
We add to the Spotify playlist periodically as we find music that inspires us, so it may contain additional songs not yet included in this blog post. Happy listening!
Download the Travel & Adventure Playlist on Spotify
Songs about travel inspiration & wanderlust.
The songs in this section are sure to stoke your wanderlust, leaving you with the urge to “ see the world ” and travel to “ the ends of the earth “! If you’re planning a trip, setting off on a new adventure, or just dreaming of future travels, you are sure to find some lyrics you relate to from the songs below.
As we packed up our lives in Virginia and planned to become full-time nomads, we found ourselves relating to Rob Baird’s “Fade Away”. We were certainly packing our “ bags a little heavy this time” , with no immediate plans to return to the place that we had always called home, but we were so “ ready for the big ol’ world ” and the pain of leaving home was overshadowed by our urge to explore!
- See the World | Caamp
- Vagabond | Caamp
- Never Come Back Again | Austin Plaine
- As We Ran | National Parks
- Sprawl II | Will Daily
- 7 Wonders | Jon Robert Hall
- Mason-Dixon Line | Judah & the Lion
- Only the Wild Ones | DISPATCH
- Next to You | John Vincent III
- See the World | Brett Dennen
- Free | Zac Brown Band
- Starting Over | Chris Stapleton
- Traveller | Chris Stapleton
- Nomads | John Craigie
- Hopeless Wanderer | Mumford & Sons
- Ends of the Earth | Lord Huron
- Ba Ba Ra | The National Parks
- Wildflowers | Trampled by Turtles
- I’ve Been Everywhere | Johnny Cash
- Castaway | Zac Brown Band
- The Life You Chose | Jason Isbell
- Mountain Song | Little Chief
- Sleep on the Floor | The Lumineers
- Fade Away | Rob Baird
- Borderlines | Hollow Coves
- Wherever I Go | The National Parks
- Middle of Nowhere | Vancouver Sleep Clinic
- Open Road | Roo Panes
- Woodland | The Paper Kites
- Yellow Eyes | Rayland Baxter
- Wild + Free | Andrew Simple
- Every Mile | Layup
Songs about the outdoors & nature
The songs in this section are inspired by adventure in the great outdoors and the beauty of the world around us. These songs will make you want to hit the trails, climb that mountain, go on a camping trip or just inspire you to get outdoors.
Perhaps my favorite song on this list, “Blue Above the Green” by Mike Edel perfectly captures that feeling you get when you’ve reached the summit after hiking up a mountain. When you look up, all you can see is green leaves and blue sky. If you’re a hiker, this may become your new favorite song!
- Blue Above the Green | Mike Edel
- Specks | Matt Pond PA
- Mountain Sound | Of Monsters and Men
- Painted Sky | The National Parks
- Coastline | Hollow Coves
- Mountains | Jess Taylor
- To the Mountains | Lizzy McAlpine
- Meet Me in the Woods | Lord Huron
- Mighty Mountains | National Park Radio
- The Woods | Hollow Coves
- Wildflower | The National Parks
- Old Pine | Ben Howard
- The River | Good Old War
- These Mountains | Sunday Best
This section includes songs about traveling on the road! From Willie Nelson’s classic “On the Road Again” to lesser-known gems like National Park’s Radio’s “The Road Ahead”, these songs will make you want to pack a bag, “fill the car with gasoline” and hit the road.
Hollow Coves’ song “The Open Road” perfectly describes the urge to travel, when you’ve been feeling stuck in your hometown for too long and you just “ miss the way it feels to roam “, that feeling of freedom that the open road ahead of you brings, as every twist and turn brings the possibility for new adventure.
If you’re planning a road trip, add this song to your travel playlist and you’ll be listening on repeat as your “ troubles fade away “!
- America | Austin Plaine
- All the Debts I Owe | Caamp
- On the Road Again | Willie Nelson
- Heads Carolina, Tails California | Jo Dee Messina
- The Open Road | Hollow Coves
- Life is Good on the Open Road | Trampled by Turtles
- The Road Ahead | National Park Radio
- Born to Be Wild | Steppenwolf
- Ramblin’ Man | Allman Brothers Band
- Road Runner | Vincent Neil Emerson
- Lost, Scared & Tired | Jared & The Mill
These songs about specific locations will make you want to travel to new places and seek out somewhere new to explore!
Maybe you’ll be inspired by the “ red sandstone ” landscapes in Sedona, set “ off to Colorado ” to find that “ rocky mountain high “, lay peacefully watching for “ shootin’ stars in Oklahoma “, be enchanted by the mystery of the Marfa Lights as they “ dance across the horizon ” or come “ alive down in New Orleans “. Wherever your travels take you, these songs are sure to add new places to your bucket list!
During our 2021 road trip , we absolutely fell in love with Idaho (so much so that we ended up buying a piece of land…), and we played Yonder Mountain String Band’s song Idaho on repeat as we road tripped from Idaho Falls to the Sawtooth Mountains. This Bluegrass tune truly captures the beauty of state! Add it your playlist and you may just find yourself planning a trip to Idaho…
- Oklahoma Stars | Turnpike Troubadours
- Wyoming | Family & Friends
- Stockholm | Judah & the Lion
- New Orleans | Parachute
- Colorado | CHAPPY
- Sedona | Houndsmouth
- Shenandoah | Trampled by Turtles
- Morocco | Moon Taxi
- Ohio | Caamp
- Colorado | Alex Gunthrie
- Carolina | Corey Smith
- Idaho | Yonder Mountain String Band
- Rocky Mountain High | John Denver
- Alabama Pines | Jason Isbell
- Marfa Lights | Kaitlin Butts
About the artists
We love all the artists and bands on this list, but we wanted to highlight a few of our favorites.
When I find a new artist that I love, I can listen to their songs on repeat for hours. This is Caamp for me! We started listening to their songs on our first cross country road trip and then went to a Caamp concert and we’ve been hooked ever since!
Evan Westfall, Taylor Meier and Matt Vinson make up the trio behind this American Folk band originally from Ohio. Caamp released their first album in 2016 and has been gaining popularity ever since. Many of their songs are about nature, being outdoors, and traveling, which is part of why we love them so much!
The National Parks
Songs from The National Parks take up several spots on our list of the best 72 songs about travel and adventure! This Indie folk/pop band formed in Provo, Utah consists of 4 members, Brady Parks, Sydney Macfarlane, Cam Brannelly and Megan Taylor Parks. They released their first single in 2013 and have since released four albums, “Wildflowers”, “Places”, “Until I Live”, and “Young”.
The National Parks songs have many songs about the beauty of the world around us, from the peaks of the Grand Tetons to the “painted sky” of the desert in the southwest. In fact, their single “As We Ran” was written for a short documentary by REI called “ Love in the Tetons” .
Hollow Coves
Another group that takes up a few spots on our list of songs about travel and adventure is Hollow Coves, an Australian Indie band led by sing-songwriters, Ryan Henderson and Matt Carins.
The band’s earthy folk songs are inspired by the singers’ own travels, and their passion for seeing the world shines through in their music. In fact, their first album released in 2017 was titled ‘Wanderlust”, and includes several of the songs on our list, such as “Coastline” and “The Woods.”
Other useful resources
Planning a road trip or a new adventure? We think you may find some inspiration and useful information here:
- Travel tips | 11 Proven Tips for Road Tripping with a Cat
- Road trip| Complete List of Road Trip Camping Essentials
- Road trip | 27 Highlights of Our Life on the Road in 2021
- Southwestern USA | The Ultimate 1 Week Arizona and Southern Utah Road Trip
- Wyoming | 18 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
What are your favorite songs about travel and adventure?! What songs would you add to the list? Let us know what you think of our playlist – we would love to hear from you!
You may also like
Sarah Vaughan
Hello! I'm Sarah, one half of the couple behind Two Outliers! In 2023, I quit my job as a Data Scientist to travel around the world on an epic 15-month journey in search of the world's greatest hikes and outdoor adventures. Matt and I started Two Outliers in 2021 as a place for visitors to find concise, accurate, and honest information to plan their own adventures. We hope our experiences inspire you to hit the trail! Happy Hiking! Sarah
Josh Sanders · February 9, 2022 at 10:00 pm
Wow an amazing list and photo!
twooutliers · February 10, 2022 at 8:12 am
thank you! we love this playlist, enjoy!
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Playlist – Top 20 Travel Songs for Wanderlusters
If there’s one thing that I cannot live without on my travels, and life for that matter, is music. Throughout the years I went through the pop phase, then rock, metal, alternative, indie… Nowadays, with a bit more “wisdom” on these bones, I like a lit bit of everything. I like good music, basically. No labels, no prejudices. If it’s good, it goes into my playlist. And you know how a good soundtrack can make all the difference in a movie? The same thing happens to me with travels.
A long bus, train or plane trip wouldn’t be the same without the songs that usually make my mind travel when I’m back at home. I usually spend hours on end working on the music selection for my iPhone before leaving for the trip. That’s why I decided to share a playlist of 20 of the best travel songs here on Joland. Below you’ll find a description and video for each one and at the end of the post the complete playlist on Spotify.
1| “The Passenger” – Iggy Pop
A true classic and as such, number 1 in this playlist of travel songs . “ I am a passenger and I ride and I ride … “. There is no way to listen to this song and not feel overwhelmed by a desire to immediately leave with a one-way ticket.
2| “Riders on the Storm” – The Doors
Another timeless classic. What a song. Try listening to it on a train or bus trip while the rain hits your window, and get ready to enter another dimension right away.
3| “Hopeless Wanderer” – Mumford & Sons
This is one of those travel songs that immediately starts me thinking about my next destination. “ Don’t let your heart grow cold ,” they say. I couldn’t agree more.
4| “Ramble on” – Led Zepellin
With lyrics inspired by the book “The Lord of the Rings” by JRR Tolkien, this one is, without a doubt, one of the greatest classics of all time. The ring is replaced on the song by the search for a bigger-than-life love all around the world. It speaks of freedom and the eternal search for happiness. And what can you want more? 😉
5| “Mausam” – Nitin Sawhney
India is a country that has has been forever fascinating me. And Nitin Sawhney’s songs, especially those on the “Beyond Skin” album, take me straight there, whenever I hear them. “Mausam” talks about the changes that take place in our life over time. Of sadness, happiness, and the balance that must exist between one emotion and the other.
6| “Ticket to Ride” – The Beatles
This song has always been part of my playlists of travel songs. The obvious interpretation of the lyrics would be related to travel, with the departure of the girl he likes. But in reality, there are several theories behind the lyrics, including one that refers to the days spent by the band members in the Red Light District in Hamburg, Germany. Regardless of what the song really means, we can all agree that it is an excellent one, right?
7| “Roam” – B52’s
The lyrics of this song say it all: “ Fly the skies, see the seas, run around all the continents. Go ahead, roam without a care. ”
8| “Wonderlust King” – Gogol Bordello
Few songs have lyrics as related to travelling the world, new experiences and living life to the fullest as “Wonderlust King” by Gogol Bordello. “ But I’m a wonderlust king. I stay on the run, let me out, let me be gone .“
9| “Fast Car” – Tracy Chapman
The feeling of freedom that you get when you get into your car and hit the road with no destination. Although the song is not directly related to travel, is it or is it not a perfect road trip song?
10| “The Golden Age” – Beck
“ Put your hands on the wheel. Let the golden age begin, let the window down, feel the moonlight on your skin. Let the desert wind cool your aching head. Let the weight of the world drift away instead. ” And what about that guitar riff right at the beginning …? This is it, isn’t it?
11| “The Sea” – Morcheeba
Travel to a beach destination far away and while looking at the horizon, listen to this song. Then tell me if it doesn’t make sense to include it in a playlist of travel songs . “ I left my soul there, down by the sea. I lost control here, living free. “
12| “I drove all night” – Cindy Lauper
A classic from the 80s, by the great Cindy Lauper. One of the most romantic songs ever, but also one of the most perfect ones for road trips.
13| “Here I go again” – White Snake
This song by White Snake has everyone singing its chorus passionately, don’t even bother denying it! The ultimate lone traveller song.
14| “Hard Sun” – Eddie Vedder
Who hasn’t dreamed of being Cristopher McCandless at least once when while watching the movie “ Into the Wild “? The idea of leaving everything behind and exploring the world with utter freedom is something that inevitably touches us. And whenever I hear this song, from the movie’s soundtrack, there is something inside of me that starts to boil and a smile that is automatically drawn on my face.
15| “I’ve been everywhere” – Johnny Cash
“Crossed the desert’s bare, man. I’ve breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel I’ve had my share, man. I’ve been everywhere. ” The great Mr Johnny Cash, ladies and gentlemen.
16| “Have love, will travel” – The Black Keys
Original music by the 50s/60s punk-rockers, The Sonics, performed by The Black Keys. A classic in the world of travel songs .
17| “Postcards from Italy” – Beirut
A song about longing, about memories of happy times. Listening to it on the road makes me want to appreciate the moment even more to keep the best and most vivid memories.
18| “Road Trippin” – Red Hot Chilli Peppers
Is there a more perfect song than this one to start a road trip? The answer is no. It’s impossible. “ Road trippin ‘with my two favourite 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.“
19| “Time to move on” – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Are you allergic to routine and stagnation? Join the club and put this song on. Makes sense, doesn’t it? “ What lies ahead, I have no way of knowing. But under my feet, baby, grass is growing. It’s time to move on, it’s time to get going. “
20| “Sweet Disposition” – Temper Trap
Is there a better feeling than the one of total freedom while looking at your life like a blank book waiting for your stories and memories? That’s how I feel on the road. And this song is the perfect soundtrack for those moments.
Playlist Spotify
And here is the full playlist , on Spotify. I will continue to update it with more songs, so if you like, add it to your favourite playlists!
What about you? What songs are part of your travel playlist? Leave your suggestions in the comments box below!
For more useful tips, photos and videos, you can follow me on Instagram and Facebook.
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PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH THE HELP OF THESE LINKS ✪ Accommodation: For accommodation bookings, I always use Booking or Airbnb . ✪ Flights: For the best flight options, I recommend Jet Radar ✪ Travel Insurance: For safe travels, hire travel insurance with World Nomads ✪ Tours and Activities: For tours and activities' bookings in several destinations around the world, I recommend Get Your Guide or Viator ✪ Car Rental: For car rentals, I always use Discover Cars ✪ Transport : For transport tickets in Asia, I recommend 12go.asia or Baolau
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Born and raised in Lisbon, Portugal, but in love with the world. I love sharing my travel stories, photos and videos and inspire those who are just as fascinated with exploring the world as I am.
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The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust
Written By: The Planet D
Inspiration
Updated On: March 2, 2023
The best travel songs playlist had an outstanding turn out by The Planet D fans.
We wanted to hear, what songs inspire travel, make you think of a destination, or simply make you want to hit the road, so we asked our readers to share their favorite songs about travel.
We had such an awesome response that now have a huge list of the best travel songs as chosen by you ! There were a lot of duplicate votes for but after adding up the choices, these are the top songs.
Table of Contents
The Best Travel Songs Playlist
We took some of our favorite quotes from people when they chose their favorite songs about travel and you can read what they below.
- If you want some more travel inspiration, check out our 101 Ultimate Travel Quotes.
- Looking for a different playlist? We’ve rounded up the best road trip songs to rock the long drive.
If you have a song to add to our playlist leave a comment below. We update this list regularly
1. Africa by Toto
Nothing makes me want to go to Africa more than this song by Toto.
They capture it beautifully with their lyrics and each time I listen to it, I am brought back to camping in the desert listening to the dog crying out in the night.
Or it makes me think of climbing Kilimanjaro towering over the Serengeti. And it has had a renaissance getting a lot of air time.
“The wild dogs cry out in the night As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company I know that I must do what’s right As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become”
Dina Rosita Koudys says “ Not exactly about traveling, but it does mention Africa, Kilimanjaro, and Serengeti. And I love the song!
We replied to Dina saying, “We think Africa is exactly a travel song. It is our favorite song about travel and makes us want to see the Serengeti again and again.”
2. Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran
Ireland is one of our favorite country’s to visit and when Ed Sheeran wrote about Galway it brought us right back to being in the pubs there.
A lot of playlists omit the modern travel songs, but musicians these days have explored more of the world than anyone. And Ed Sheeran is a huge traveler.
We saw Ed Sheeran on Graham Norton talking about his travels and we love his free spirit and down to earth attitude.
“I meet her on Grafton street right outside of the bar She shared a cigarette with me while her brother played the guitar She asked me what does it mean, the Gaelic ink on your arm? Said it was one of my friend’s songs, do you want to drink on?”
3. One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head
From the Musical Chess, this hit by Murray Head made me want to visit Bangkok in the 1990s.
Whenever I’m in the city, I can’t stop singing it!
“I said, “do you speak-a my language?” He just smiled and gave me a vegemite sandwich And he said I come from a land down under Where beer does flow and men chunder”
4. Land Down Under by Men at Work
When thinking about travel music, this song is at the top for and Australian theme.
Men at work reference the Hippy Trail, muscles in Brussels and a den in Bombay.
All while bonding with people from the Land Down Under. Men at work are from Melbourne , Australia
“Bangkok, Oriental setting And the city don’t know that the city is getting The creme de la creme of the chess world In a show with everything but Yul Brynner”
5. Havana by Camila Cabello
This song takes me to Havana. The groove makes me feel that I am at a lounge in Cuba and I love it.
Even if Camila Cabello is taken to East Atlanta, her heart is always in Havana. Just like so many people feel when they visit Havana too!
Havana, ooh na-na Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh na-na He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na Oh, but my heart is in Havana My heart is in Havana Havana, ooh na-na
6. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd
This song makes me want to go to the American South.
My favorite lyric is when they mention the recording studio Muscle Shoals.
“Now Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers And they’ve been known to pick a song or two (yes they do) Lord they get me off so much They pick me up when I’m feeling blue, now how bout you?”
After watching the documentary about Muscle Shoals, I now understand what that lyric is all about.
It was the place for rock musicians to record in the 1960s. Rent Muscle Shoals on Amazon
Kathy Bovair says “ Dave will have my back on this one “SWEET HOME ALABAMA” is the best travel song and an old high school classic from our past”
7. I’ve Been Everywhere Man by Johnny Cash
Carmen Davis-Harcum said. “It’s My favourite travel song.” And we agree. I’ve been everywhere is the ultimate travel song!
If you want to add a song to your travel playlist that captures what it’s like to travel around.
I always envisioned this song being about Johnny Cash writing about his life on the road as a traveling musician.
“I’ve been everywhere, man I’ve been everywhere, man Crossed the deserts bare, man I’ve breatherd the mountain air, man Travel, I’ve had my share, man I’ve been everywhere”
He may not have been everywhere int he world, but he has definitely crossed all of the United States and Canada.
I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash does the trick.
8. Route 66 by Nat King Cole
Route 66 certainly captures the heyday of America’s famous highway running across the country.
It makes me think of simpler (and tougher) times of people hitting the open road with nothing but dreams in their heads.
This song makes me want to get in the car and drive.
“Well if you ever plan to motor west Just take my way it’s the highway that’s the best Get your kicks on Route 66 Well it winds from Chicago to L.A. More than 2000 miles all the way Get your kicks on Route 66″
Trisha Miller is inspired by Route 66, a trip I have dreamed of for a long time, and someday I will do the entire length in one long, leisurely road trip”
9. Desert Rose – Sting
This song is apparently about when Adam was banished from the garden of Eden.
But when I listen to it, I think of travel and it transports me straight to the Middle East.
“I dream of rain, I dream of gardens in the desert sand I wake in vain, I dream of love as time runs through my hand Sweet desert rose Each of her veils, a secret promise This desert flower No sweet perfume ever tortured me more than this…”
10. Where the Streets Have No Name by U2
The song is inspired by the streets of Ethiopia where there aren’t (or weren’t) any street names.
I remember cycling through Africa and we barely saw a road sign.
At the time, Ireland was still under a lot of civil unrest and Bono wrote about a place where class, religion and income are not indicitve of the street they live on.
“I want to feel sunlight on my face I see that dust cloud disappear without a trace I wanna take shelter from the poison rain Where the streets have no name.”
11. Sympathy For The Devil by The Rolling Stones
Daniel Stein Says “ Sympathy For the Devil makes you want to drive. Who wouldn’t include this in their best travel songs playlist?”
This travel song had the most votes in our survey.
So it had to be on our playlist even though it isn’t really about travel. It does talk about historical events around the world though.
“I stuck around St. Petersburg When I saw it was a time for a change Killed the czar and his ministers Anastasia screamed in vain”
12. On the Road Again by Willy Nelson
Diane Grady .” We were camping year’s ago on Vancouver Island and a big motorhome pulled out playing”On the Road Again” through the loudspeakers. It was hilarious .
But you know what, On the Road Again is one of the most popular songs played when hitting the road.
The words alone. I’m on the road again!
13. I Left My Heart In San Francisco by Tony Bennet
Suggested by Katherine Hill who said, “I left my Heart in San Francisco, of course! This song is the epitome of San Francisco.
Travel Songs don’t have to be about going everywhere. They can be about one place and this is the ultimate love story dedicated to San Francisco.
Add it to your playlist on Amazon
14. Montego Bay by Amazulu
Whenever we go to Jamaica we sing this song. It is perfect for travel.
It not only captures the spirit and energy of Jamaica, it explains a lot about the island.
They drive on the island, they drink rum from a silver tray and greet you like a brother would.
“Vernon’ll meet me when the BOAC lands Keys to th M. G. will be in his hands Adjust to the driving ‘n’ I’m on my way It’s all on the right side in Montego Bay
BOAC is a British airplane and I love how they say, “it’s all on the right side, because when you are in Jamaica, you drive British style.
15. Midnight Train To Georgia by Gladys Knight and the Pips
Lauren Mcleod made this addition to our playlist.
She says “ Even though it’s about heading home instead of away, it sure gets me groovin’ along like I want to leave.”
“The world is his, his and ‘ers alone Oh he’s leavin’ On that midnight train to Georgia (leavin’ on the midnight train) Said he’s goin’ back to find (goin’ back to find) Oh a simpler place in time”
You can also download on Amazon
16. Roam by the B52s
Genelle Gregorio “ Roam “ by the B-52s is a fantastic song for slideshows of your travels and to get you all pumped up about traveling and seeing the world.
“Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without wings, without wheels Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without anything but the love we feel”
In our hearts, aren’t we all roamers at heart?
17. Leaving on a Jet Plane by Chantal Kreviazuk
Jenny Leach “ We love this track when we are traveling . Leaving on a Jet Plane just screams travel song! Famous recordings are from Peter Paul and Mary, and John Denver.
“All my bags are packed I’m ready to go I’m standin’ here outside your door I hate to wake you up to say goodbye”
While the song is more about leaving for work (most likely the life of a rock n roll band, it still makes us think about traveling.
This song has been re-done a lot over the years, our favorite version is from the movie Armageddon by Chantal Kreviazuk.
18. Kokomo by The Beach Boys
Keith Jenkins of Velvet Escape chose Kokomo. This makes me think of the beach for sure.
What we love about Kokomo is that it is a made up place by the Beach Boys, but it sure makes you want to go there. And it captures the spirit of the islands.
19. Graceland by Paul Simon
Sheri Anderson Wallace said. “ I love that travel song because it captures all the pieces of a road trip. What could be more of a travel song than a song about road tripping?
We say, it also inspired us to get ourselves to Graceland and see Elvis’ home in Memphis Tennessee.
We’ll never forget visiting Kenya and seeing photographs of Paul Simon at a lodge we stayed at in the Masai Mara. He stayed here with Carry Fisher and it was this place that inspired his music for the album Graceland. I think that was one of the coolest things to see that we stayed at the same lodge.
2 0. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf
Bonnie Paridaen says “ By Steppenwolf Baby!” Need we say more?
“Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Lookin’ for adventure And whatever comes our way Yeah Darlin’ go make it happen Take the world in a love embrace Fire all of your guns at once And explode into space.”
Born to Be Wild is all about taking a motorcycle trip across the country. The movie isn’t bad either.
21. New York State of Mind by Billie Joel
Merav Benaia told us that it’s the travel song that makes me want to pack my bag and hop on a flight. (event though it’s about taking the bus)
Some folks like to get away Take a holiday from the neighborhood Hop a flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood But I’m takin’ a Greyhound on the Hudson River line I’m in a New York state of mind
I love New York and this is a love song dedicated to the beautiful State.
Get New York State of Mind on Amazon
22. Sailing, Christopher Cross
Stephanie Broschart stated. “The lyrics from Sailing totally make for a great travel song.”
It’s not far to never-never land, no reason to pretend And if the wind is right you can find the joy of innocence again Oh, the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see. Believe me.
23. Proud Mary – Tina Turner
Whenever we’re in New Orleans , this is the song that comes to mind. It has amazing energy and gets you in the mood to hop on a riverboat and explore!
Big wheel keep on turnin’ Proud Mary keep on burnin’ Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river
It wasn’t until we took a riverboat tour in New Orleans that we even understood what big wheel keeps on turnin’ meant. It’s the big wheel that propels these riverboats. Cool eh?
24. American Woman by The Guess Who
Lorna Hazen-Francavilla said. “ It is one of those “roll down the windows and makes crank the tunes kind of songs!”
Even though it is a song about dissing America, a lot of people look at it as a tribute to America. Regardless, it is a song that has a lot of energy.
Check it out on Amazon .
25. Man in the Mirror by Micheal Jackson
Claire Algarme “ I like the beat and the message of the song. It also reminds me to be open to everything I see & meet in my travels and how to be a better person at the end of my journeys.
We love the words of The Man in the Mirror .
Travel creates compassion. It brings people together and it is the best education.
This song empowers that feeling. Through travel we have often been compelled to make a difference.
If you want to make the world a better place Take a look at yourself, and then make a change
26. Kathmandu
When we were in Kathmandu before climbing to Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
This song captures the wanderlust of travel.
“I figure baby I’ve got nothing to lose, I’m tired of being blue, That’s why I’m going to Kathmandu Up to the mountains where I’m going to.”
It’s such a fun song.
Check it out on Amazon
27. London Calling by the Clash
Okay, so it might be an anti travel song, but if you just listen to the chorus, London is calling!
so even though the lyrics are pretty angry and depressing, I always sing it when I go to London.
“The ice age is coming, the sun’s zooming in Meltdown expected, the wheat is growing thin Engines stop running, but I have no fear ‘Cause London is drowning I live by the river”
28. Coming to America by Neil Diamond
I said this in our best road trip songs post, and I’ll say it again, I loved listening to this song while cycling down the continent of Africa .
Coming to America captures the hope and freedom of what was America.
Far We’ve been traveling far Without a home But not without a star Free Only want to be free We huddle close Hang on to a dream
The world looked America for so much when he sang this. Hopefully, it will get it’s welcoming status back again in our life.
But in the meantime, we love listening to Neil Diamond, he is the coolest cat in town.
29. Rambling Man by The Allman Brothers
Voted by – Rasheed Hooda – It’s a classic
“I’m on my way to New Orleans this mornin’ I’m leavin’ out of Nashville, Tennessee They’re always having a good time down on the bayou Lord, them Delta women think the world of me”
30. Laredo by Band of Horses
Catherine Reyes says.”It has been my favourite of song to inspire travel for the past three months. It’s pretty recent and has that good on the road again feel.
“Gonna take a trip to Laredo Gonna take a dip in the lake Oh, I’m at a crossroads with myself I don’t got no one else”
31. Istanbul not Constantinople by They Might Be Giants
I had never heard this song before watching the Umbrella Academy on Netflix. When I heard it, it was my new favourite travel song.
We’ve been to Istanbul many times and we did know that it was once called Constantinople.
Istanbul was Constantinople Now it’s Istanbul, not Constantinople Been a long time gone, Constantinople Now it’s Turkish delight on a moonlit night
So now whenever we go back, you know we are going to be singing this song. It is so much fun.
Seriously, give it a listen!
And add it to your playlist through Amazon $1.29
32. Carolina on my Mind by James Taylor
I just love James Taylor’s calm and soothing voice. And that is exactly what travel is meant to do – calm and sooth.
A lot of can’t travel right now, but we do go to places in our mind, and this captures that daydreaming part of our lives where we imagine being somewhere else.
“In my mind I’m gone to Carolina Can’t you see the sunshine? Can’t you just feel the moonshine? Ain’t it just like a friend of mine To hit me from behind? Yes, I’m gone to Carolina in my mind.”
33. California Dreaming – Mamas and the Papas
I think we all feel this way about California on a winter’s day:
I’d be safe and warm, If I was in L.A. California Dreaming, On such a winter’s day?
And who doesn’t love the vocal harmonies of the Mamas and the Papas?
Start dreaming and get it now.
33. Bali Eyes – Porno for Pyros
When traveling through South East Asia, we discovered this song and became huge fans of the unplugged version by Porno for Pyros.
Ate a mushroom turned into Bali Didn’t look it just jumped down my throat I was starting to die until I Took a trip to Bali Their eyes are god In a glass full of jelly Bali in my eyes
Once we reached Bali, we couldn’t stop playing this one. I think you’ll like it!
34. Sand in My Shoes – Dido
This song captures how amazing travel can be, but how much of a let down it is when you get home.
“Two weeks away feels like the whole world should have changed, But I’m home now, and things still look the same I think I’ll leave it ’til tomorrow to unpack, Try to forget for one night that I’m back in my flat On the road where the cars never stop going through the night, To a life where I can’t watch the sun set”
35. New York by Alicia Keys
There are so many songs about New York City, we could have created a travel song playlist all about New York alone! (Hey that’s a great idea! )
But we could only choose one and while Frank Sinatra, Beastie Boys, and even New York New York from Guys and Dolls springs to mind, I’m going with Alicia Keys beautiful song about New York.
In New York! Concrete jungle where dreams are made of There’s nothing you can’t do now you’re in New York! These streets will make you feel brand new Big lights will inspire you Now you’re in New York
Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Best Travel Songs Playlist. I found a lot of songs I’d never heard of, some old classics and some fun ones too!
Save this list to Pinterest to share these songs about travel.
Do you have a favourite travel song? Share it with us and see if it makes the list!
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25 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust”
Ah these are some great songs! Some old school, some new, it’s perfect! Its pretty much my karaoke list too. Thanks so much for sharing!
Africa by Toto is classic. Its my favourite one :))) Does anyone use a travel itinerary on the worldee? For inspiration?
Please add the Spanish song Ay Carmela to your playlist.
Haha of course Sweet Home Alabama when you are cruising through bama!
Admiring the time and effort you put into your blog and detailed information you offer. This is the first time i am reading your post and admire that you posted article which gives users lot of information regarding particular topic thanks for this share.
This list is as bad as you could do without trying to be the worst… One Jason Mraz is bad enough, but two? And no Canned Heat “Going Up The Country”.
Great suggestion with – going up the Country.
Thank You for this amazing list, A Playlist for Best English, Hindi and Bengali songs for travel is a very tough work and you have done a great work.
Great list, I’m glad I contributed to the list 😀 I like Midnight train to Georgia. I don’t know bunch of the song, but now I need to have this playlist, I want to hear what others suggested! .-= Dina´s last blog ..Top 8 Animal Street Signs from Australia and New Zealand =-.
We are putting a playlist together on playlist.com when we have the final list compiled we will be putting up the playlist as well so everyone can hear. We didn’t know a few of the songs either, they are awesome. Can’t wait until monday when the new post goes out.
That’s cool! Looking forward to having the playlist 🙂
Hey, hows about something a BIT less cheesy though guys n gals. I give you M.Ward’s Paul’s Song, beautifully mournful and full of bittersweet lonesomeness.
‘How does it feel to be travelling, to live your life on the train oand the aeroplane. Well I ain’t gonna lie to you. Well every town is just the same, when you’ve left your heart in the Portland rain.’ Check it out! .-= Jools Stone´s last blog .. Edinburgh TweetUp Hatches =-.
Thanks Jools, Put it on our facebook fan page and we can include it in our list. Sounds like beautiful lyrics, I would love to include it:)
Whoever submitted “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver must be unaware that he perished in an experimental aircraft.
Haha, I forgot about that. Very ironic.
Great idea guys! I found myself spending too much time on YouTube 😉 and realised I have so many favourite travel songs I can hardly choose. I chose New York State of Mind; I think it is obvious it’s been a while since I last visited my one and only NYC. .-= Merav | AllWays Rental´s last blog ..Take the Tranz Alpine Train and Dream a Little =-.
Great list!! we have a theme song not so much a travel song. What do you think?? 🙂 http://gotpassport.org/2010/01/08/our-gotpassport-family-theme-song/ .-= GotPassport´s last blog .. That’s Right We’re Bad We’re Locals OK- Sort Of! =-.
#40 is my favourite on the list… I remember listening to this song watching the sun going down on Caye Caulker in Belize… amazing! .-= Brendan van Son´s last blog ..Fun Fotography on the Salt Flats =-.
Such an awesome list!!! .-= Andi´s last blog ..Love- Head Over Heels For The Amalfi Coast =-.
I’d love to make a second vote for Weather with You — such a great suggestion by Career Break HQ! (Especially because you two are such fundamentally happy people, and it’s a fundamentally happy song. :)) .-= Melanie@TravelsWithTwo´s last blog ..Strolling Through Hacienda Baru =-.
Thanks Melanie. We will be opening votes on the 9th, looks like it might be a winner already:)
My vote is for the Grateful Dead, the most comforting travel music I can think of. Trucking up to Buffalo is the best album for travel. .-= Shawn´s last blog ..FeedBurner’s Delusional Subscription Statistics =-.
Thanks Shawn. I don’t know if you want to enter your song. You still have a week. We need a specific song, sorry not an album and we have to have it on our facebook page to be included in the final list. Sorry, but we have to follow the rules:)
Excellent list of songs, and such a fun contest! I love that people who are submitting their favorites aren’t just pulling them out of thin air – the songs have real meaning to them…..I’ve been enjoying reading all the entries on your Facebook Page. .-= Trisha´s last blog .. Increase Your Travel Writing Exposure and Readership with Syndication =-.
Thanks Trisha, I have to say we are blown away with the song choices. They are so clever, heartfelt and interesting. It puts my post to shame about favorite travel songs. People are coming up with better choices than I ever could have thought of. It really is the ultimate playlist!
The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust
- The Power of Travel Songs: Let Music Take You on an Extraordinary Journey
Do you daydream about going to faraway places and having incredible adventures? There’s something magical about the way travel songs make you feel. The melodies and words of these beautiful songs can take you to faraway places, bring back memories of trips you’ve already taken, and make you want to travel more. So, whether you’re getting ready for a trip or just want to get away from everyday life, we’ve put together a playlist of songs that will take you to other places, remind you of great trips you’ve taken in the past, and make you want to travel more. Put on your headphones, take a deep breath, and let the music take you away.
“On the Road Again” – Willie Nelson: A Timeless Classic for Wanderers
“africa” – toto: embark on an imaginary safari, “wanderlust” – björk: embracing the beauty of the unknown, “i’m gonna be (500 miles)” – the proclaimers: a celebration of enduring spirit and exploration, “graceland” – paul simon: a melodic road trip, “paradise” – coldplay: chasing dreams and finding your own paradise, “ramble on” – led zeppelin: the spirit of a restless wanderer, “the world” – brad paisley: embracing the vastness and beauty of our planet, “hotel california” – eagles: unveiling the intrigue of the sunny california, “america” by simon and garfunkel, “the passenger” by iggy pop, “roam” by the b-52s and “send me on my way” by rusted root, “going to california” by led zeppelin, “i’ve been everywhere” by johnny cash, “rocky mountain high” and “take me home, country roads” by john denver, “california dreamin'” by the mamas & the papas, “wildflowers” by tom petty, “life is a highway” by tom cochrane, looking for some travel inspiration, faq – travel songs.
What better way to kick-start our travel playlist than with this iconic song? Willie Nelson’s classic tune, “On the Road Again,” captures the essence of the open road and the thrill of embarking on a new adventure. As you listen to the twang of the guitar and Nelson’s unmistakable voice, you’ll feel a surge of excitement and an irresistible urge to hit the road and explore new horizons. This song is a testament to the enduring spirit of travel songs and the freedom they evoke.
Favorite Line in the Travel-Song: “On the road again, just can’t wait to get on the road again. The life I love is making music with my friends.” – Willie Nelson
Few songs capture the mystique and allure of a distant continent quite like Toto’s “Africa.” With its infectious beat and evocative lyrics, this timeless anthem transports you to the heart of Africa, where vast landscapes, diverse wildlife, and ancient cultures await. Close your eyes and let the music guide you on an imaginary safari, where every beat of the drum resonates with the rhythm of your wanderlust.
Favorite Line in the Travel Song: “I bless the rains down in Africa, gonna take some time to do the things we never had.” – Toto
Björk’s ethereal voice combined with the whimsical soundscape of “Wanderlust” will take you on an otherworldly journey. This song is a perfect match for those seeking a more introspective and contemplative travel experience. As you listen, you’ll find yourself yearning for new horizons, embracing the beauty of the unknown, and being inspired to embark on transformative adventures.
“ Wanderlust, relentlessly craving wanderlust.” – Björk
No travel playlist would be complete without this infectiously catchy tune by The Proclaimers. As the chorus kicks in, you’ll find yourself tapping your feet and singing along. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” is a celebration of the enduring spirit of travel songs and the willingness to go the extra mile (or 500 miles!) to explore the world and create unforgettable memories.
“But I would walk 500 miles, and I would walk 500 more, just to be the man who walks a thousand miles to fall down at your door.” – The Proclaimers
Paul Simon’s “Graceland” effortlessly captures the essence of a road trip, blending folk and world music influences to create a melodic masterpiece. With its poignant lyrics and uplifting rhythm, the song paints a vivid picture of a journey to the fabled home of Elvis Presley. It reminds us of the transformative power of travel-songs and the remarkable connections we can make along the way.
“And she said, ‘Losing love is like a window in your heart. Everybody sees you’re blown apart. Everybody sees the wind blow.’ – Paul Simon
Coldplay’s “Paradise” takes us on an emotional ride, inspiring us to seek our own version of paradise. The song’s soaring melodies and thought-provoking lyrics evoke images of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a world waiting to be explored. Let this track be your anthem as you chase your dreams of finding your own paradise and embark on exhilarating adventures.
“When she was just a girl, she expected the world, but it flew away from her reach, so she ran away in her sleep.” – Coldplay
For those who seek adventure and a touch of rock ‘n’ roll, Led Zeppelin’s “Ramble On” is the perfect addition to your travel playlist. With its energetic guitar riffs and Robert Plant’s mesmerizing vocals, this song embodies the spirit of a restless wanderer, embarking on a quest for new experiences and the thrill of the unknown. Let the music ignite your inner explorer.
“Leaves are falling all around, time I was on my way. Thanks to you, I’m much obliged for such a pleasant stay.” – Led Zeppelin
Country music often tells stories of life on the road and the beauty of the world around us, and Brad Paisley’s “The World” is no exception. This uplifting and heartfelt track reminds us of the vastness and diversity of our planet, urging us to explore its wonders and appreciate the remarkable places that await us. Let the music inspire you to embark on unforgettable journeys.
“To the teller down at the bank, you’re just another checking account. To the plumber that came today, you’re just another house. At the airport ticket counter, you’re just another fare.” – Brad Paisley
With its iconic guitar intro and mysterious lyrics, “Hotel California” by the Eagles transports us to a world of intrigue and curiosity. This timeless classic evokes images of road trips along the Californian coastline, capturing the essence of a never-ending journey and the allure of the unknown. Let the music guide you through the twists and turns of this metaphorical hotel, where checking out may not be as easy as it seems.
“Welcome to the Hotel California, such a lovely place, such a lovely face. Plenty of room at the Hotel California, any time of year, you can find it here.” – Eagles
“Viva la Vida” – Coldplay: Seize the Moment and Live Life to the Fullest –
We conclude our travel playlist with Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida,” a song that speaks to the dreamers and explorers. Its grand orchestration and reflective lyrics inspire us to seize the moment, conquer new frontiers, and embrace the beauty and complexity of the world. It’s the perfect anthem for those who dare to dream big and live life to the fullest.
“I used to rule the world, seas would rise when I gave the word. Now in the morning, I sleep alone, sweep the streets I used to own.” – Coldplay
“Laughing on the bus, playing games with the faces. She said the man in the gabardine suit was a spy. I said, ‘Be careful, his bowtie is really a camera.’ – Simon and Garfunkel
Why: This classic song from the duo’s Bookends album tells the story of young lovers hitchhiking across the United States in search of the essence of America. With its poetic lyrics and melodic harmonies, “America” captures the carefree spirit and sense of adventure associated with road trips and travel.
“I am the passenger and I ride and I ride. I ride through the city’s backside. I see the stars come out of the sky.” – Iggy Pop
Why: Iggy Pop’s “The Passenger” is a timeless anthem that resonates with travelers worldwide. Its catchy melody and infectious energy make it a go-to song for those seeking a sense of liberation and thrill while exploring new destinations.
“Roam if you want to, roam around the world. Roam if you want to, without wings, without wheels.” – The B-52s
“Send me on my way, send me on my way, send me on my way, send me on my way.” – Rusted Root
Why: Both “Roam” and “Send Me On My Way” are upbeat and infectious tunes that embody the joy and excitement of travel. These songs have become staples on road trip playlists, with their lively rhythms and uplifting lyrics serving as the perfect companions for memorable journeys.
“Standing on a hill in my mountain of dreams, telling myself it’s not as hard, hard, hard as it seems.” – Led Zeppelin
Why: Led Zeppelin’s “Going to California” is an iconic track that exudes a sense of wanderlust. Its soothing acoustic guitar and poetic lyrics inspire listeners to set off on their own adventures, particularly in the enchanting landscapes of California.
“I’ve been everywhere, man. I’ve been everywhere, man. Crossed the deserts bare, man. I’ve breathed the mountain air, man.” – Johnny Cash
Why: Johnny Cash’s “I’ve Been Everywhere” is a playful and fast-paced song that lists numerous locations around the world. As Cash rattles off city names, you’ll find yourself itching to explore new places and experience the thrill of discovering unfamiliar destinations.
“Rocky Mountain high, Colorado. Rocky Mountain high, I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky.” – John Denver
“Take me home, country roads, to the place I belong. West Virginia, mountain mama, take me home, country roads.” – John Denver
Why: John Denver’s songs are renowned for their evocative lyrics that capture the beauty of nature and the allure of the open road. “Rocky Mountain High” and “Take Me Home, Country Roads” transport listeners to picturesque landscapes and evoke a sense of longing for the freedom that travel brings.
“All the leaves are brown and the sky is gray. 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.” – The Mamas & The Papas
Why: With its iconic harmonies and wistful lyrics, “California Dreamin'” is a timeless song that epitomizes the desire to escape to warmer climates and embark on a journey of self-discovery. This song is sure to make you yearn for the open road.
“You belong among the wildflowers. You belong in a boat out at sea. Sail away, kill off the hours. You belong somewhere you feel free.” – Tom Petty
Why: Tom Petty’s “Wildflowers” is a soulful and introspective song that encourages listeners to embrace their wanderlust and explore the world around them. Its heartfelt lyrics and soothing melody make it a perfect companion for long drives and reflective moments.
“Life is a highway, I wanna ride it all night long. If you’re going my way, I wanna drive it all night long.” – Tom Cochrane
Why: Made famous by the movie “Cars,” “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane is an anthem of adventure and embracing the unknown. Its energetic rhythm and uplifting lyrics make it a must-have song on any travel playlist.
The power of music to take us away, make us feel things, and ignite our wanderlust is unrivaled. We hope that listening to the songs featured on this ultimate travel songs playlist will ignite a feeling of adventure within you and motivate you to see the world. So, the next time you find yourself packing for a trip or even simply daydream
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Q: What is a good travel video song? A: There are several great songs that can enhance your travel videos and evoke a sense of adventure. Some popular choices include:
- Willie Nelson – On the Road Again
- Toto – Africa Björk – Wanderlust
- The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)
- Paul Simon – Graceland
- Coldplay – Paradise
- Led Zeppelin – Ramble On
- Brad Paisley – The World
- Eagles – Hotel California Coldplay – Viva la Vida
Q: What is a song about moving away? A: Moving away can be a bittersweet experience, and there are songs that capture the emotions associated with this life change. Here are a few songs about moving away:
- “Homeward Bound” by Simon & Garfunkel
- “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day
- “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver
- “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
- “No Surprises” by Radiohead
- “The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel
Remember that musical preferences are subjective, so choose a song that resonates with your personal feelings and experiences.
Traveler and blogger Living in Guadalajara, Mexico
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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.
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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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67 Songs About Travelling: A Playlist for 2024
Are you looking for some of the best songs about travelling to inspire you or to accompany you on your next trip? Then you have come to the right place!
I’ve collected some of the best travel songs from the 1930s until today in this list. Musical genres range from pop and dance to rock, punk, and many others. So no matter what type of music you like, there should be something in it for you. The songs in the list below either talk about a place or the experience of travelling.
Some of my favourite songs on this list are #1, #17, and #39. Make sure to check them out and feel free to leave a comment if you think a travel song is missing. I’m updating this post frequently.
What's in this article show 1. The Best Travel Songs of All Time 1.1. Songs About Travelling From 2000 Until Now 1.1.1. 1. Eddie Vedder – Guaranteed (2007) 1.1.2. 2. Nelly Furtado – I’m Like a Bird (2000) 1.1.3. 3. Tom Walker – Fly Away With Me (2019) 1.1.4. 4. Weezer – Island in the Sun (2001) 1.1.5. 5. Manu Chao – Me Gustas Tu (2001) 1.1.6. 6. Lost Frequencies – Are You With Me (2014) 1.1.7. 7. Luca Aprile – Traveler (2018) 1.1.8. 8. Murray Head – One Night in Bangkok (2001) 1.1.9. 9. KONGOS – Traveling On (2012) 1.1.10. 10. Anna Kendrick – Cups (2012) 1.1.11. 11. Dirty Heads – Vacation (2017) 1.1.12. 12. The Kooks – See the World (2006) 1.1.13. 13. Estelle Swara ft. Kanye West – American Boy (2008) 1.1.14. 14. Alex Gaudino ft. Crystal Waters – Destination Calabria (2007) 1.2. Travel Songs From the 80s and 90s 1.2.1. 15. Johnny Cash – I’ve Been Everywhere (1996) 1.2.2. 16. Willie Nelson – On the Road Again (1980) 1.2.3. 17. Toto – Africa (1982) 1.2.4. 18. The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) (1988) 1.2.5. 19. Desireless – Voyage Voyage (1987) 1.2.6. 20. Paul Simon – Graceland (1986) 1.2.7. 21. Vengaboys – We’re Going to Ibiza (1999) 1.2.8. 22. Sting – Englishman in New York (1987) 1.2.9. 23. Daft Punk – Around the World (1997) 1.2.10. 24. Madonna – Holiday (1983) 1.2.11. 25. Nina Hagen – New York (1983) 1.2.12. 26. Tracy Chapman – Fast Car (1988) 1.2.13. 27. Deftones – Be Quiet and Drive (1997) 1.2.14. 28. Red Hot Chilli Peppers – Road Trippin’ (1999) 1.2.15. 29. Men at Work – Down Under (1980) 1.2.16. 30. Crowded House – Weather With You (1991) 1.2.17. 31. The Beach Boys – Kokomo (1988) 1.2.18. 32. Will Smith – Miami (1997) 1.2.19. 33. The B-52’s – Roam (1989) 1.2.20. 34. Status Quo – The Wanderer (1983) 1.2.21. 35. Tom Cochrane – Life is a Highway (1991) 1.3. Travel Songs From the 60s and 70s 1.3.1. 36. John Denver – Leaving On a Jetplane (1966) 1.3.2. 37. Iggy Pop – The Passenger (1977) 1.3.3. 38. Scott McKenzie – San Francisco (1967) 1.3.4. 39. Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama (1974) 1.3.5. 40. The Mamas and the Papas – California Dreamin’ (1966) 1.3.6. 41. Bob Dylan – A Hard Rain’s a-gonna Fall (1973) 1.3.7. 42. Frank Sinatra – Love’s Been Good to Me (1969) 1.3.8. 43. Louis Armstrong – What a Wonderful World (1967) 1.3.9. 44. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man (1961) 1.3.10. 45. The Animals – We Gotta Get Out of This Place (1965) 1.3.11. 46. Steppenwolf – Born to Be Wild (1969) 1.3.12. 47. Rupert Holmes – Escape (The Piña Colada Song) (1979) 1.3.13. 48. Crosly Stills & Nash – Marrakesh Express (1969) 1.3.14. 49. Audrey Hepburn – Moon River (1962) 1.3.15. 50. The Sonics – Have Love, Will Travel (1965) 1.3.16. 51. Led Zeppelin – Immigrant Song (1970) 1.3.17. 52. Canned Heat – Going Up the Country (1968) 1.3.18. 53. Elvis Presley – Viva Las Vegas (1964) 1.3.19. 54. Joe Dassin – Aux Champs Elysees (1969) 1.3.20. 55. Crosby, Stills & Nash – Marrakesh Express (1969) 1.3.21. 56. Gladys Knight & The Pips – Midnight Train to Georgia (1973) 1.3.22. 57. Eddie Money – Two Tickets to Paradise (1977) 1.3.23. 58. Chuck Berry – Promised Land (1964) 1.3.24. 59. The Grateful Dead – Truckin’ (1970) 1.3.25. 60. Roger Miller – King of the Road (1964) 1.3.26. 61. Steve Miller Band – Jet Airliner (1977) 1.3.27. 62. Creedence Clearwater Revival – Travelin’ Band (1970) 1.3.28. 63. Led Zeppelin – Ramble On (1969) 1.4. Older Songs About Travelling 1.4.1. 64. Edith Piaf – Sous le Ciel de Paris (1951) 1.4.2. 65. The Wizard of Oz – Somewhere Over the Rainbow (1939) 1.4.3. 66. Frank Sinatra – Come Fly With Me (1959) 1.4.4. 67. Hank Williams – Ramblin’ Man (1951) 2. Songs about travelling – Final thoughts
The Best Travel Songs of All Time
Songs About Travelling From 2000 Until Now
1. eddie vedder – guaranteed (2007).
This is one of my favourite songs of all time! Eddie Vedder wrote it for the film Into the Wild , and the lyrics are so powerful.
“On bended knee is no way to be free Lifting up an empty cup I ask silently That all my destinations will accept the one that’s me So I can breathe”
2. Nelly Furtado – I’m Like a Bird (2000)
“And baby all I need for you to know is I’m like a bird I’ll only fly away I don’t know where my soul is (soul is) I don’t know where my home is”
3. Tom Walker – Fly Away With Me (2019)
“So come on fly away with me To a place where we could be anyone we wanna be And we can bottle up our fears Brew a taste so sweet Knock us off our feet or more”
4. Weezer – Island in the Sun (2001)
“When you’re on a holiday You can’t find the words to say All the things that come to you And I wanna feel it too”
5. Manu Chao – Me Gustas Tu (2001)
“Me gusta el viento, me gustas tú Me gusta soñar, me gustas tú Me gusta la mar, me gustas tú”
6. Lost Frequencies – Are You With Me (2014)
I wanna dance by water ‘neath the Mexican sky Drink some Margaritas by a string of blue lights Listen to the Mariachi play at midnight Are you with me, are you with me?
7. Luca Aprile – Traveler (2018)
“You’re taking off to Mexico To Paris and I know you long for more I’m waiting for you all night long I wanna see the pictures on your phone”
8. Murray Head – One Night in Bangkok (2001)
“One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster The bars are temples but the pearls ain’t free You’ll find a god in every golden cloister And if you’re lucky then the god’s a she I can feel an angel sliding up to me”
9. KONGOS – Traveling On (2012)
“Maybe I’ll go it all alone See the world and make my way back home Or maybe I’ll keep traveling on”
10. Anna Kendrick – Cups (2012)
“I got my ticket for the long way ’round The one with the prettiest of views It’s got mountains, it’s got rivers It’s got sights give you shivers But it sure would be prettier with you”
11. Dirty Heads – Vacation (2017)
“ A-a-aye, I’m on vacation Every single day ’cause I love my occupation A-a-aye, I’m on vacation Every single day, every, every single day “
12. The Kooks – See the World (2006)
“I remember how we used to sing Writing poems in your bed sit Finding time to be the passenger But there you are you never saw me leave”
13. Estelle Swara ft. Kanye West – American Boy (2008)
“Take me on a trip, I’d like to go someday Take me to New York, I’d love to see L.A. I really want to come kick it with you You’ll be my American boy Tell ’em kno wagwan blud “
14. Alex Gaudino ft. Crystal Waters – Destination Calabria (2007)
“ Follow me And let’s go To the place where we belong And leave our troubles at home Come with me We can go To a paradise of love and joy “ A destination unknown
Travel Songs From the 80s and 90s
15. johnny cash – i’ve been everywhere (1996).
“I’ve been everywhere, man. Crossed the desert’s bare, man. I’ve breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel, I’ve had my share, man. I’ve been everywhere.”
16. Willie Nelson – On the Road Again (1980)
“And I can’t wait to get on the road again On the road again Goin’ places that I’ve never been Seein’ things that I may never see again And I can’t wait to get on the road again”
17. Toto – Africa (1982)
“The wild dogs cry out in the night As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company I know that I must do what’s right As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become”
18. The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) (1988)
“And I would walk 500 miles And I would roll 500 more Just to be the man who rolled a thousand miles To fall down at your door”
19. Desireless – Voyage Voyage (1987)
“ Voyage, voyage Plus loin que la nuit et le jour (voyage, voyage) Voyage (voyage) Dans l’espace inouï de l’amour Voyage, voyage Sur l’eau sacrée d’un fleuve indien, (voyage, voyage) Voyage (voyage) Et jamais ne revient “
20. Paul Simon – Graceland (1986)
“I’m going to Graceland, Graceland Memphis, Tennessee I’m going to Graceland Poor boys and pilgrims with families And we are going to Graceland”
21. Vengaboys – We’re Going to Ibiza (1999)
“Whoah! We’re going to Ibiza Whoah! Back to the island Whoah! We’re gonna have a party Whoah! In the Mediterranean Sea”
22. Sting – Englishman in New York (1987)
“See me walking down Fifth Avenue A walking cane here at my side I take it everywhere I walk I’m an Englishman in New York “
23. Daft Punk – Around the World (1997)
“ Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world”
24. Madonna – Holiday (1983)
“If we took a holiday Took some time to celebrate Just one day out of life It would be, it would be so nice”
25. Nina Hagen – New York (1983)
“New York City is the hottest place For a honeymoon in a hotel room, uh-huh New York City is a place so nice Everybody says it so they had to name it twice”
26. Tracy Chapman – Fast Car (1988)
“You got a fast car I got a plan to get us outta here I been working at the convenience store Managed to save just a little bit of money Won’t have to drive too far Just ‘cross the border and into the city You and I can both get jobs And finally see what it means to be living”
27. Deftones – Be Quiet and Drive (1997)
“It feels good to know you’re mine Now drive me far away, away, away Far away I don’t care where Just far away I don’t care where Just far away I don’t care where, just far away And I don’t care”
28. Red Hot Chilli Peppers – Road Trippin’ (1999)
“Road trippin’ with my two favorite allies Fully loaded we got snacks and supplies It’s time to leave this town, it’s time to steal away Let’s go get lost anywhere in the USA Let’s go get lost, let’s go get lost”
29. Men at Work – Down Under (1980)
“ Traveling in a fried-out Kombi On a hippie trail, head full of zombie I met a strange lady, she made me nervous She took me in and gave me breakfast “
30. Crowded House – Weather With You (1991)
“Everywhere you go, always take the weather with you Everywhere you go, always take the weather Everywhere you go, always take the weather with you Everywhere you go, always take the weather, the weather with you”
31. The Beach Boys – Kokomo (1988)
“Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take you to Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama Key Largo, Montego, baby why don’t we go Oh I want to take you down to Kokomo, we’ll get there fast and then we’ll take it slow That’s where we want to go, way down in Kokomo”
32. Will Smith – Miami (1997)
“Party in the city where the heat is on All night, on the beach till the break of dawn “Welcome to Miami” “ Bienvenidos a Miami” Bouncin’ in the club where the heat is on All night, on the beach till the break of dawn I’m goin to Miami “Welcome to Miami”
33. The B-52’s – Roam (1989)
“Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without wings, without wheels Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without anything but the love we feel”
34. Status Quo – The Wanderer (1983)
“ Well I’m the type of guy that likes to roam around I’m never in one place I roam from town to town And when I find myself falling for some girl Well I hop right into that car of mine and drive around the world ‘Cause I’m a Wanderer, yeah the Wanderer I roam around and round and round and round and round and round and round “
35. Tom Cochrane – Life is a Highway (1991)
“There’s a world outside every darkened door Where blues won’t haunt you anymore Where the brave are free and lovers soar Come ride with me to the distant shore”
Travel Songs From the 60s and 70s
36. john denver – leaving on a jetplane (1966).
“So kiss me and smile for me Tell me that you’ll wait for me Hold me like you’ll never let me go ‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane Don’t know when I’ll be back again”
37. Iggy Pop – The Passenger (1977)
“I am a passenger And I ride, and I ride I ride through the city’s backsides I see the stars come out of the sky Yeah, they’re bright in a hollow sky You know it looks so good tonight”
38. Scott McKenzie – San Francisco (1967)
“If you’re going to San Francisco Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair If you’re going to San Francisco You’re gonna meet some gentle people there”
39. Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama (1974)
“Sweet home Alabama Where the skies are so blue Sweet home Alabama Lord I’m comin’ home to you”
40. The Mamas and the Papas – California Dreamin’ (1966)
“ All the leaves are brown (all the leaves are brown) And the sky is gray (and the sky is gray) I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk) On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day) I’d be safe and warm (I’d be safe and warm) If I was in L.A. (if I was in L.A.)”
41. Bob Dylan – A Hard Rain’s a-gonna Fall (1973)
“ Oh, where have you been, my blue-eyed son? And where have you been, my darling young one? I’ve stumbled on the side of twelve misty mountains, I’ve walked and I crawled on six crooked highways, I’ve stepped in the middle of seven sad forests, I’ve been out in front of a dozen dead oceans, I’ve been ten thousand miles in the mouth of a graveyard, And it’s a hard, it’s a hard, it’s a hard, it’s a hard, It’s a hard rain’s a-gonna fall. “
42. Frank Sinatra – Love’s Been Good to Me (1969)
This song was covered by Johnny Cash in 2006 (which is how I got to know it), and his version is beautiful as well.
“I have been a rover I have walked alone Hiked a hundred highways Never found a home Still in all I’m happy The reason is, you see Once in a while along the way Love’s been good to me”
43. Louis Armstrong – What a Wonderful World (1967)
“I see skies of blue and clouds of white The bright blessed day, the dark sacred nights And I think to myself what a wonderful world.”
44. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man (1961)
“I’m a travelin’ man and I’ve made a lot of stops All over the world And in every part I own the heart Of at least one lovely girl”
45. The Animals – We Gotta Get Out of This Place (1965)
“We gotta get out of this place If it’s the last thing we ever do We gotta get out of this place ‘Cause girl, there’s a better life for me and you “
46. Steppenwolf – Born to Be Wild (1969)
“ Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Looking for adventure In whatever comes our way “
47. Rupert Holmes – Escape (The Piña Colada Song) (1979)
“If you like piña coladas And gettin’ caught in the rain If you’re not into yoga If you have half a brain If you like makin’ love at midnight In the dunes on the cape Then I’m the love that you’ve looked for Write to me and escape”
48. Crosly Stills & Nash – Marrakesh Express (1969)
“ Looking at the world through the sunset in your eyes Travelling the train through clear Moroccan skies Ducks, and pigs, and chickens call Animal carpet wall-to-wall American ladies five-foot tall in blue “
49. Audrey Hepburn – Moon River (1962)
This song was written for the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s , in which Audrey Hepburn sings it. The song won multiple awards and was covered by many other artists.
“Two drifters, off to see the world There’s such a lot of world to see We’re after the same rainbow’s end Waitin’ ’round the bend My huckleberry friend Moon river and me”
50. The Sonics – Have Love, Will Travel (1965)
“Well, I might take a boat or I’ll take a plane I might hitch hike or jump a railroad train You’re kind of love drives a man insane So look for me walking just a any old way”
51. Led Zeppelin – Immigrant Song (1970)
“We come from the land of the ice and snow From the midnight sun where the hot springs flow The hammer of the gods Will drive our ships to new lands To fight the horde, sing and cry Valhalla, I am coming”
52. Canned Heat – Going Up the Country (1968)
“I’m going up the country Baby, don’t you wanna go? I’m going up the country Baby, don’t you wanna go? We gonna go somewhere Where I’ve never been before”
53. Elvis Presley – Viva Las Vegas (1964)
“Viva Las Vegas with your neon flashin’ And your one arm bandits crashin’ All those hopes down the drain Viva Las Vegas turnin’ day into nighttime Turnin’ night into daytime If you see it once You’ll never be the same again”
54. Joe Dassin – Aux Champs Elysees (1969)
“Aux Champs-Elysées, aux Champs-Elysées Au soleil, sous la pluie, à midi ou à minuit Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Elysées”
55. Crosby, Stills & Nash – Marrakesh Express (1969)
56. gladys knight & the pips – midnight train to georgia (1973).
“He’s leaving (leaving) On that midnight train to Georgia (leaving on a midnight train) Hmm, yeah Said he’s going back (going back to find) To a simpler place and time (and when he takes that ride) Oh yes, he is (guess who’s gonna sit right by his side)”
57. Eddie Money – Two Tickets to Paradise (1977)
“ I’m gonna take you on a trip so far from here I’ve got two tickets in my pocket, now baby, we’re gonna disappear We’ve waited so long, waited so long We’ve waited so long, waited so long “
58. Chuck Berry – Promised Land (1964)
“ Workin’ on a T-bone steak a la carte, Flying over to the Golden State; When the pilot told us in thirteen minutes We’d be headin’ in the terminal gate. “
59. The Grateful Dead – Truckin’ (1970)
“Dallas, got a soft machine Houston, too close to New Orleans New York got the ways and means But just won’t let you be”
60. Roger Miller – King of the Road (1964)
“Third boxcar, midnight train Destination Bangor, Maine Old, worn out suit and shoes I don’t pay no union dues”
61. Steve Miller Band – Jet Airliner (1977)
“Leavin’ home, out on the road I’ve been down before Ridin’ along in this big ol’ jet plane I’ve been thinkin’ about my home But my love light seems so far away And I feel like it’s all been done Somebody’s tryin’ to make me stay You know I’ve got to be movin’ on”
62. Creedence Clearwater Revival – Travelin’ Band (1970)
“Take me to the hotel baggage gone, oh well Come on, come on won’t you get me to my room I want to move Playin’ in a travelin’ band Yeah Well I’m flyin’ ‘cross the land, tryin’ to get a hand Playin’ in a travelin’ band”
63. Led Zeppelin – Ramble On (1969)
“Ramble on And now’s the time, the time is now To sing my song I’m goin’ ’round the world, I got to find my girl On my way I’ve been this way ten years to the day Ramble on Gotta find the queen of all my dreams”
Older Songs About Travelling
64. edith piaf – sous le ciel de paris (1951).
You can find the translation of this beautiful song here .
“Sous le ciel de Paris Coule un fleuve joyeux Hum, hum Il endort dans la nuit Les clochards et les gueux Sous le ciel de Paris Les oiseaux du Bon Dieu Hum, hum Viennent du monde entier Pour bavarder entre eux”
65. The Wizard of Oz – Somewhere Over the Rainbow (1939)
“Somewhere over the rainbow Bluebirds fly And the dreams that you dream of Dreams really do come true-ooh-ooh Someday I’ll wish upon a star Wake up where the clouds are far behind me Where trouble melts like lemon drops High above the chimney tops that’s where You’ll find me, oh”
66. Frank Sinatra – Come Fly With Me (1959)
“Come fly with me, let’s float down to Peru In llama-land there’s a one-man band And he’ll toot his flute for you Come fly with me, let’s take off in the blue”
67. Hank Williams – Ramblin’ Man (1951)
“Some folks might say That I’m no good That I wouldn’t settle Down if I could But when that open road Starts to callin’ me There’s somethin’ o’er the hill That I gotta see”
Songs about travelling – Final thoughts
I hope that you enjoyed this post featuring the best travel songs from the 1930s until today. This list is a work in progress, and I’m always on the lookout for other beautiful travel music to add to this list.
Can you think of other beautiful songs about travelling that are missing from this list? Let me know in the comments below!
Enjoyed this post? You may also like:
- Poetry About Travel: The 16 Most Inspiring Travel Poems
- Songs About Paris That Will Bring You There Instantly
- Short Travel Captions to Inspire Your Wanderlust
- Movies About Nomads That Will Inspire You
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Laura Meyers
Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.
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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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All is fair in love: 25 romantic R&B classics
Posted: December 6, 2023 | Last updated: December 6, 2023
Artists have always used their music to express what they're going through and how they feel. The topic of love is a common lyrical theme for artists from all genres. With R&B love songs, artists know just how to captivate an audience with smooth melodies, mind-blowing harmonies, and different vocal tones.
From lyrics about having a crush, to spending forever with a life partner, here is a list of some of the most romantic R&B songs.
“There Goes My Baby” by Usher
Usher has been the talk all across social media thanks to his Las Vegas residency. One of the most epic parts of the show is when he serenades a special fan in the audience with his 2010 single “There Goes My Baby.” On the track, Usher details how much he admires his partner and how he can’t wait to be affectionate with her. As he sings on the hook, “There goes my baby / Oooh, girl, look at you / You don’t know how good it feels to call you my girl.”
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“Spend My Life With You” by Eric Benet feat. Tamia
Sometimes there are collaborations between two singers and their voices are simply magnetic in the most symmetrical way. That’s how fans feel when they hear the vocals of Eric Benet and Tamia on their hit song “Spend My Life With You.” On the track, the two singers trade verses as they detail how they never thought they would find an everlasting love, and now that they’ve found it, they want it to last until infinity. Hear their passion as they sing, “Can I just see you every morning when I open my eyes / Can I just feel your heart beating beside me every night / Can we just feel this way together 'til the end of all time.”
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“Happily Ever After” by Case
In 1999, Case released his sophomore album Personal Conversation to rave reviews. On the album’s second single “Happily Ever After,” Case eloquently proposes to his partner. He details how he wants to be the man and protector, and hopes to live happily ever after with his future wife. In the music video, Case’s love interest was played by Beyoncé.
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“Best Part” by Daniel Caesar feat. H.E.R.
In 2017, Daniel Caesar released his debut studio album Freudian. When he teamed up with H.E.R. on the final single “Best Part,” it became an instant hit, especially for couples. Their thoughts on love can be heard on the hook singing, “I just wanna see how beautiful you are / You know that I see it / I know you’re a star / Where you go I follow, no matter how far / If life is a movie, then you’re the best part.”
“All My Life” by K-Ci and JoJo
When people think of songs that are typically played at wedding receptions, K-Ci and JoJo’s 1998 single “All My Life” is a popular pick. On the track, the two sing about how much they prayed to find that special someone, and now they’ve found them, they hope that the feelings are mutual.
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“Lately” by Tyrese
In 1998, Tyrese released his self-titled debut album featuring the hit single “Lately.” On the track, Tyrese wants to make sure that he tells his partner how much he loves and appreciates them. As he sings on the hook, “Lately, have I told you I love you / Lately / Have I told you, you still mean the world to me.”
“Weak” by SWV
In the ‘90s, R&B groups were huge, and SWV was one of the most successful out of all of them. On their debut album It’s About Time, the single “Weak” became one of their biggest records to date. On the track, they sing about how love can make their emotions and bodies feel in awe, “I get so weak in the knees / I can hardly speak / I lose all control and something takes over me / In a daze, your love’s so amazing.”
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“Forever My Lady” by Jodeci
In 1991, Jodeci released its debut album Forever My Lady. The eponymous single was written and produced by group member Devante Swing, along with Al B. Sure! On the track, the group sings about finding out their partner is having a baby and it helps solidify that he sees spending forever with her.
“Ribbon in the Sky” by Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder is often praised for being one of the best songwriters of all time. His 1982 single “Ribbon in the Sky” helps showcase his songwriting talent and vocal ability in the form of a ballad. On the track, Wonder details how long he waited to find that special person and he believes their love is written in the stars.
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“So Into You” by Tamia
On Tamia’s hit single “So Into You,” she reflects on being attracted to someone and how she’s never met someone like them. As she says on the pre-hook, “I think you’re truly something special / Just what my dreams are really made of / Let’s stay together you and me boy / There’s no one like you around.”
“Make It Last Forever” by Keith Sweat feat. Jacci McGhee
Keith Sweat worked with producer and songwriter Teddy Riley on his single “Make It Last Forever.” Sweat trades verses with Jacci McGhee as they sing about people who need to state and affirm their love to their partners. As Sweat sings on the first verse, “Let me hear you tell me you love me / Let me hear you say you’ll never leave me / Ooh, girl, that would make me feel so right.”
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“Nothing Even Matters” by Lauryn Hill and D’Angelo
Although fans only got to hear one song with Lauryn Hill and D’Angelo together, “Nothing Even Matters” proves that they should’ve gifted the world with more collaborations. On the track, the two trade verses about how other things in the world don’t matter to them, as long as they’re spending life with the person they love.
“Beauty” by Dru Hill
In 1998, Dru Hill released its sophomore album Enter The Dru. The track “Beauty” has longtime been a fan favorite as it tells the story of meeting someone by chance and letting shyness get in the way. However, the protagonist knows that if he meets this person again, he won’t let the chance pass him again and will express his feelings. As group member Sisqo sings, “‘Cause my eyes have seen the glory / In the coming of your smile / So I swear if you ever come around again / Please stay for a while.”
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“You” by Jesse Powell
When people think of romantic songs, sometimes they come in a form of singers pouring their hearts out. That was the case when Jesse Powell released his 1999 single “You.” On the track, Powell sings about how he is so enamored with his partner and wants to spend forever with them.
“Caught Up in the Rapture” by Anita Baker
In 1986, Anita Baker released her sophomore album Rapture which featured the hit single “Caught Up in the Rapture.” On the track, Baker details how sometimes people can feel an instant love connection. As she sings on the first verse, “When we met, I always knew / I would feel the magic for you / On my mind constantly / In my arms is where you should be.”
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“Someone To Love You” by Ruff Endz
On Ruff Endz’ 2001 single “Someone To Love You,” the duo details how some people long to be loved by someone that cares about them. When a person doesn’t experience that, they often question their worth, but everyone is deserving of that type of love. Their love thoughts are heard throughout the track singing, “Baby you been waiting for the man from all the fairy tales / Or maybe just the man from all your dreams / Try to think reality, let’s talk possibilities / Cause girl you know you’ve waited so long for someone to love you.”
“Dontchange” by Musiq Soulchild
Musiq Soulchild’s 2002 single “Dontchange” tells the story of couples who get older, and then wonder if their partner still loves them and is attractive to them. The singer wants to reassure his partner that his love is everlasting, no matter what changes they go through. As he sings on the hook, “See I’ll love you when your hair turns gray, girl / I’ll still want you if you gain a little weight, yeah / The way I feel for you will always be the same / Just as long as your love don’t change.”
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“That’s the Way Love Goes” by Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson shows a more sensual and intimate side on her 1993 single "That's the Way Love Goes." The smooth production from her frequent collaborators Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis makes for a perfect pairing alongside Janet's soft vocals. On the track, Janet describes how much she wants to please her partner, as she sings, "Don't mind if I light candles, I like to watch us play and / Baby, I've got on what you like / Come closer, baby, closer / Reach out and feel my body / I'm gonna give you all my love."
"I’ll Make Love To You” by Boyz II Men
Boyz II Men’s 1994 single “I’ll Make Love To You” is a smooth ballad about, well, lōvemaking of course. Written and produced by Babyface, the group’s smooth harmonies shine bright on the track about a night rendezvous. As they sing on the hook, “I’ll make love to you / Like you want me to / And I’ll hold you tight / Baby all through the night.”
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“Always and Forever” by Heatwave
Words of affirmation are a key element to keeping any romance game up. Soulful group Heatwave know this all too well on “Always and Forever.” Just listen to their sweet tones singing, “Everyday love me your own special way / Melt all my heart away with a smile / Take time to tell me you really care / And we’ll share tomorrow together / And I’ll always love you forever.”
“At Last” by Etta James
Jazz legend Etta James finds her forever love on her 1961 single “At Last.” On the track, she gives feelings of how she’s waited so patiently for love and now she’s feeling pure bliss. She opens the song with, “At last / My love has come along / My lonely days are over / And life is like a song.”
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“Back At One” by Brian McKnight
Sometimes people long to find a life partner, but then think that it may never happen to them. Brian McKnight’s 1999 single “Back At One” shows listeners that love can show up anytime, they just have to allow it into their lives. As he sings on the hook, “One, you’re like a dream come true / Two, just want to be with you / Three, girl, it’s plain to see / That you’re the only one for me.”
“I Wanna Know” by Joe
Throughout Joe’s discography, he’s been a master storyteller when it comes to matters of the heart. On his 1999 single “I Wanna Know,” Joe details how he wants to know what his potential partner likes, so he can make sure he’s the right man to treat her right. He reflects that on the hook singing, “I wanna know what turns you on / So I can be all that and more / I wanna know what makes you cry / So I can be the one who always makes you smile.”
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“Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green
Al Green wants to show his partner exactly how they make him feel on his 1972 hit single “Let’s Stay Together.” On the track, he emphasizes of why people break up to make up, and how he wants to spend forever with his partner. As he sings on the hook, “Oh baby, let’s, let’s stay together / Loving you whether, whether / Times are good or bad, happy or sad.”
“So Amazing” by Luther Vandross
Love can be bring people to a happy and beautiful space, that’s the mindset Luther Vandross is in as he covers Dionne Warwick’s song “So Amazing.” On the track, Vandross highlights how he’s feeling good ever since love came into his life. As Vandross sings, “Got to tell you how you thrill me / I’m happy as I can be / You have come and it’s changed my whole world.”
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I ride through the city's backside. I see the stars come out of the sky. Yeah, they're bright in a hollow sky. You know it looks so good tonight. I am a passenger. I stay under glass. I look through my window so bright. I see the stars come out tonight. I see the bright and hollow sky.
This Motown classic is a perfect addition to every travel playlist and is an old-style sing what you see song about traveling. What a Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong. As a smooth sounding reminder that the world really is wonderful. Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond. Altogether now.. Sweet Car-o-line Ba Ba Bah….
Get Here by Oleta Adams. This song is all about all of the ways you can travel to get to the one you love. "You can reach me by railway, you can reach me by trailway. You can reach me on an airplane, you can reach me with your mind. You can reach me by caravan, cross the desert like an Arab man.
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.
73. Have Love Will Travel by The Sonics. Yeah, I travel from Maine to Mexico. Just to find a little girl that loves me so. No matter when, no matter where I'll be. I'm looking for a woman that'll satisfy me. Have love. Whoa, baby, will travel. I said, yeah, yeah, have love. Woah, baby, will travel. I said, if you need loving then. Mm, hmm ...
This section includes songs about traveling on the road! From Willie Nelson's classic "On the Road Again" to lesser-known gems like National Park's Radio's "The Road Ahead", these songs will make you want to pack a bag, "fill the car with gasoline" and hit the road. Hollow Coves' song "The Open Road" perfectly describes ...
"Take me on a trip I'd like to go some day / Take me to New York, I'd love to see LA / I really want to come kick it with you / You'll be my American boy" ... Country Travel Songs. I'll be the first to tell you that I'm not a fan of country music, but I figured I'd include this section because you have to hand it to these ...
4| "Ramble on" - Led Zepellin. With lyrics inspired by the book "The Lord of the Rings" by JRR Tolkien, this one is, without a doubt, one of the greatest classics of all time. The ring is replaced on the song by the search for a bigger-than-life love all around the world. It speaks of freedom and the eternal search for happiness.
9. Desert Rose - Sting. This song is apparently about when Adam was banished from the garden of Eden. But when I listen to it, I think of travel and it transports me straight to the Middle East. "I dream of rain, I dream of gardens in the desert sand. I wake in vain, I dream of love as time runs through my hand.
This song is a testament to the enduring spirit of travel songs and the freedom they evoke. Favorite Line in the Travel-Song: "On the road again, just can't wait to get on the road again. The life I love is making music with my friends." - Willie Nelson "Africa" - Toto: Embark on an Imaginary Safari
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 ...
Music Travel Love - http://youtube.com/c/MusicTravelLove/videos1. Right Here Waiting 2. Grandpa3. Lean On Me4. Heal The World5. Landslide 6. What A Wonderful...
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 ...
Collection of all Music Travel Love videos ordered by most viewed, including "When You Say Nothing At All (Live in Nashville) (Alison Krauss Cover)", "Stand By Me (Live At Lake Powell) (Ben E. King Cover)", "Perfect (Live from Gasparilla Island) (Ed Sheeran Cover)" & more!
The best songs of MUSIC TRAVEL LOVE - MUSIC TRAVEL LOVE full album 2020The best songs of MUSIC TRAVEL LOVE - MUSIC TRAVEL LOVE full album 2020The best songs ...
Travelling the train through clear Moroccan skies. Ducks, and pigs, and chickens call. Animal carpet wall-to-wall. American ladies five-foot tall in blue ". 56. Gladys Knight & The Pips - Midnight Train to Georgia (1973) "He's leaving (leaving) On that midnight train to Georgia (leaving on a midnight train) Hmm, yeah.
Welcome to the official Music Travel Love YouTube channel! We travel the world making music, friends, videos and memories! It's fun :) On our channel, you'll...
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.
[COMPANY] I love to travel It's true I love a change of venue A change of menu The feeling when you Meet with something strange I love to travel I love a challenge I love change March march trudge ...
We have a lot to be grateful for. Listen to this fun song by Rahgir. Please share with people you love.Singer, Lyrics : RahgirMusic : @shubhodeeproy Morchang...
Listen to I love to travel on Spotify. Rahgir · Song · 2022. Rahgir · Song · 2022. Rahgir. Listen to I love to travel on Spotify. Rahgir · Song · 2022. Home; Search; Your Library. Playlists Podcasts & Shows Artists Albums. English. Resize main navigation. Preview of Spotify ...
Provided to YouTube by TuneCoreI Love to Travel · Nathan Lane, Roger Bart & Stephen SondheimThe Frogs: Original Broadway Cast Recording℗ 2012 PS ClassicsRele...
As he sings on the hook, "See I'll love you when your hair turns gray, girl / I'll still want you if you gain a little weight, yeah / The way I feel for you will always be the same / Just as ...
Non Stop Love Song I Music Travel Love | New Love Songs#moffatts #musictravel #musictravellove