song about tourism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Traveling Wilburys – End Of The Line

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

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

2. A Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton

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

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

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

3. Kongos – Traveling On

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

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

4. Travelling – Paper Lions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads

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

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

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

7. Passenger – Travelling Alone

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is the full song and the official video:

8. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man 1961

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

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

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

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

9. BUDAPEST – George Ezra

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

You Ooh, you Ooh, I’d leave it all

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

10. Bright Eyes “First Day Of My Life”

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

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

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

11. Blaumut – Vent que mou el temps

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

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

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

12. Alvaro Soler – El Mismo Sol

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

13. Matt Simons – Catch & Release

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

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

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

14. Ed Sheeran ft. Kygo – Running Away

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

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

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

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

15. American Authors – What We Live For

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

16. Tom Walker – Fly Away With Me

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

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

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

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

19. Daft Punk – Around The World

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

20. Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc.

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

21. Ed Sheeran – Castle On The Hill

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

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

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

22. CHANGE by Some Poetries

As long as I turn my face into the light

I leave dark things behind

It feels like

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

Just because we found each other

Just because we cross dark ways

Just because of the pretty face

23. Our Adventure (EP) – The Long Valley

We found this travel music by chance.

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

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

24. Asaf Avidan – One day / Reckoning Song

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

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

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

25. Part-Time Friends – Here We Are

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

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

Dark as night, let the lightning guide you

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

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

27. Coldplay – Gravity

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

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

28. Imagine Dragons – Not Today from ME BEFORE YOU

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

29. Alkey – Travel of life

30. On Top Of The World by Imagine Dragons

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

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

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

Covid-19 Travel Songs

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

O “Fly On” – Coldplay

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

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

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

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

It’s Time – Imagine Dragons

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

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

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

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

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

Dani Martin – Cero (Spanish Song)

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

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

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

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

Original Lyrics in Spanish:

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

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

Queen – We Are The Champions

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

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

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

Skylar Grey – Coming Home

Summary: Travel Music for your Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Safe travels!

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

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

Nice add-on, Rick 😉 Thanks!

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35 Songs About Traveling and Adventure

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

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

1. “Vacation” — Thomas Rhett

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

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

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

2. “Pontoon” — Little Big Town

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

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

Next: The best songs about boating and boats

3. “Soak up the Sun” — Sheryl Crow

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

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

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

4. “All Summer Long” — Kid Rock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. “A Thousand Miles” — Vanessa Carlton

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

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

7. “Promised Land” — Chuck Berry

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

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

8. “Life Is a Highway” — Rascal Flatts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. “Truckin” — The Grateful Dead

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

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

11. “America” — Simon & Garfunkel

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

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

Next: Greatest patriotic songs for your American celebrations

12. “Some Beach” — Blake Shelton

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

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

Next: Ultimate vacation songs playlist for travel

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

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

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

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

14. “Fly Away” — Lenny Kravitz

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

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

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

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

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

16. “Cruise” — Florida Georgia Line

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

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

17. “Chillin’ It” — Cole Swindell

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

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

18. “Travelin’ Man” — Ricky Nelson

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

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

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

19. “Ramblin’ Man” — Hank Williams

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

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

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

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

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

21. “Cake by the Ocean” — DNCE

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

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

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

22. “On the Road Again” — Willie Nelson

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

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

23. “Around the World” — Daft Punk

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

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

24. “Blame it on Mexico” — George Strait

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

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

25. “Train Song” — Phish

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

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

26. “Born to Be Wild” — Steppenwolf

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

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

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

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

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

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

28. “Ramblin’ Man” — The Allman Brothers

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

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

29. “Sunshine and Summertime” — Faith Hill

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

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

30. “Toes” — Zac Brown Band

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

33. “Travelin’ Band” — Creedence Clearwater Revival

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

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

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

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

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

35. “Highway to Hell” — AC/DC

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

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

Final Thoughts on Songs About Traveling and Adventure

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

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

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

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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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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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125 Songs About Travel To Fuel Your Wanderlust

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

125 Songs About Travel

Kokomo by Beach Boys

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

B lue Hawaii by Elvis Presley

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

Holiday by Madonna

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

Gravity by Coldplay  

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

Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffet

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

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

Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight and the Pips  

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

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

Read Next: The Ultimate List of Friends Traveling Quotes

What We Live For by American Authors

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

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

Travelin’ Man 1961 by Ricky Nelson

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

Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) by Shakira

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

Hello Seattle by Owl City

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

Havana by Camila Cabello

“Havana, ooh na-na Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh-na-na He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na Oh, but my heart is in Havana”

Rio by Michael Nesmith

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

Leaving Las Vegas by Cheryl Crow

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

Fr ee by Donovan Frankenreiter

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

Come Fly With Me by Frank Sinatra

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

One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head

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

Graceland by Paul Simon

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

The Passenger by Iggy Pop

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

Life is a Highway by Rascal Flats

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

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

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

Leaving on a Jet Plane by Peter Paul and Mary

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

Have Love, Will Travel by The Sonics 

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

These Days by The Foo Fighters

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

American Boy by Estelle featuring Kanye West

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

First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes

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

Miles Away by The Maine

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

Take Me Home by Phil Collins

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

Hopeless Wanderer by Mumford and Sons

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

Carolina In My Mind by James Taylor

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

Destination Calabria by Alex Gaudino featuring Crystal Waters

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

Toes by The Zac Brown Band

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

Travelling Alone by Passenger

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

You Only Live Once by The Strokes

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

Two Tickets To Paradise by Eddie Money

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

Walking in Memphis by Mark Cohn

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

Africa by Toto

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

Road to Nowhere by Talking Heads

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

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

California Dreaming by The Mamas and Papas

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

Beverly Hills by Weezer

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

Born to Be Wild by Steppenswolf

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

Not Today by Imagine Dragons

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

Do You Want to See the World by the Kooks

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

April in Paris by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

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

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

A Million Miles Away by David Byrne

“Oh oh A million miles away from here”

Get Here by Oleta Adams

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

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

Vacation by The GoGo’s

The chorus of this song sums up my travel addiction:

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

Catch & Release by Matt Simons

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

Road Trippin’ by the Red Hot Chili Peppers

“Road trippin’ with my two favorite allies Fully loaded we got snacks and supplies It’s time to leave this town, it’s time to steal away…”

Take Me Home (Country Roads) by John Denver

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

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

Lovers in Japan by Coldplay

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

London Calling by The Clash

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

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

Around the World by Daft Punk

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

Are You Gonna Go My Way by Lenny Kravitz

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

We Gotta Get Out of This Place by The Animals

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

Sail Away by David Gray

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

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

Best Travel Songs To Get You Singing Along

Wake up in paris by hot sardines.

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

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

Malibu by Miley Cyrus

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

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

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

Ramblin Man by The Allman Brothers Band

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

“Lord, I was born a ramblin’ man”

San Francisco by Scott McKenzie

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

Change by Some Poetries

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

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

Take It Easy by The Eagles

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

Come Away by Sons of the East

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

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

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

Wanderlust by The Weeknd

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

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

Sweet Home Alabama by Leonard Skynard

“Sweet home Alabama Where the skies are so blue”

New York by Cat Power

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

Sitting on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding

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

Surfin’ USA by The Beach Boys

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

Mexico by James Taylor

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

Island in the Sun by Weezer

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

Send Me On My Way by Rusted Root

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

Send me on my way…”

Wonderful Life by Black

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

When I’m Gone by Anna Kendrick

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

See the World by Gomez

“See the world, find an old fashioned girl”

Travelin’ Prayer by Billy Joel

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

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

America by Siman & Garfunkel

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

Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen

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

Kathmandu by Bob Seger

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

Wish You Were Here by Incubus

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

Come With Me Now by KONGOS

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

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

End of the Line by Traveling Wilburys

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

Moon River by Audrey Hepburn

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

California Love by Tupac and dr. Dre

“California love! California knows how to party…”

God Bless Texas by Little Texas

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

Englishman in New York by Sting

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

Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran

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

On The Road Again by Willie Nelson

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

Big Jet Plane by Angus and Julia Stone

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

Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac

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

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

I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

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

Castle on the Hill by Ed Sheeran

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

Anywhere by Passenger

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

Miami by Will Smith

“I’m goin to Miami Welcome to Miami…”

Traveling On by KONGOS

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

Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

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

Budapest by George Ezra

“My house in Budapest My hidden treasure chest…”

King of the World by First Aid Kit

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

Hotel California by The Eagles

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

Adventure of a Lifetime by Coldplay

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

Leave by R.E.M.

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

On Top of The World by Imagine Dragons

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

A Thousand Miles by Vanessa Carlton

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

Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers

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

Permanent Vacation by Aerosmith

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

In America by Neil Diamond

“Free, Only want to be free…”

Roam by the B-52s

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

Viva Las Vegas by Elvis Presley

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

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

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

Barcelona by Ed Sheeran

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

Marrakesh Express by Crosby, Still, and Nash

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

Pompeii by Bastille

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

Ho Hey by The Lumineers 

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

On My Way by Phil Collins 

“Tell everybody I’m on my way New friends and new places to see With blue skies ahead, yes I’m on my way…”

Ventura Highway by America

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

New York State of Mind by Billy Joel

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

Fly Away With Me by Tom Walker

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

Time of Your Life by Green Day

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

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

Paris by The Chainsmokers  

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

Travelling by Paper Lions

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

Escape (The Pina Colada Song) by Rupert Holmes

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

Rocky Road To Dublin by The Irish Descendents

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

Running Away by Ed Sheeran ft. Kygo 

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

Final Thoughts  

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

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

Happy Travels, Friends!!

While You’re Here, Check Out These Posts:

100 Perfect Quotes About Paris

The Road to Hana: 22 Must-See Stops

85 Quotes About Italy to Inspire Your Wanderlust

25 Roman Ruins In Rome That You Have To See

3 Days in Venice: A Great Venice Itinerary

150 Dreamy Beach Quotes

101 Travel Quotes for Insta

Perfect Sunshine Captions for Instagram

The Best Wheeled Backpack for Travel

The Best Travel Backpack for Europe…and Beyond

How We Travel With Only a Backpack

The Perfect Gifts for Travel Lovers

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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 :)

67 Songs About Travelling: A Playlist for 2024

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

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

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

The Best Travel Songs of All Time

Songs About Travelling From 2000 Until Now

1. eddie vedder – guaranteed (2007).

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

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

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

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

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

“So come on fly away with me To a place where we could be anyone we wanna be And we can bottle up our fears Brew a taste so sweet Knock us off our feet or more”

4. Weezer – Island in the Sun (2001)

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

5. Manu Chao – Me Gustas Tu (2001)

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

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

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

7. Luca Aprile – Traveler (2018)

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

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

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

9. KONGOS – Traveling On (2012)

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

10. Anna Kendrick – Cups (2012)

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

11. Dirty Heads – Vacation (2017)

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

12. The Kooks – See the World (2006)

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Songs From the 80s and 90s

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

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

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

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

17. Toto – Africa (1982)

“The wild dogs cry out in the night As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company I know that I must do what’s right As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become”

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

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

19. Desireless – Voyage Voyage (1987)

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

20. Paul Simon – Graceland (1986)

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

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

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

22. Sting – Englishman in New York (1987)

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

23. Daft Punk – Around the World (1997)

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

24. Madonna – Holiday (1983)

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

25. Nina Hagen – New York (1983)

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

26. Tracy Chapman – Fast Car (1988)

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

27. Deftones – Be Quiet and Drive (1997)

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

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

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

29. Men at Work – Down Under (1980)

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

30. Crowded House – Weather With You (1991)

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

31. The Beach Boys – Kokomo (1988)

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

32. Will Smith – Miami (1997)

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

33. The B-52’s – Roam (1989)

“Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without wings, without wheels Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without anything but the love we feel”

34. Status Quo – The Wanderer (1983)

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

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

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

Travel Songs From the 60s and 70s

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

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

37. Iggy Pop – The Passenger (1977)

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

38. Scott McKenzie – San Francisco (1967)

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

39. Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama (1974)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

44. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man (1961)

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

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

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

46. Steppenwolf – Born to Be Wild (1969)

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

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

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

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

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

49. Audrey Hepburn – Moon River (1962)

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

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

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

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

51. Led Zeppelin – Immigrant Song (1970)

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

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

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

53. Elvis Presley – Viva Las Vegas (1964)

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

54. Joe Dassin – Aux Champs Elysees (1969)

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

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

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

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

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

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

58. Chuck Berry – Promised Land (1964)

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

59. The Grateful Dead – Truckin’ (1970)

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

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

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

61. Steve Miller Band – Jet Airliner (1977)

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

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

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

63. Led Zeppelin – Ramble On (1969)

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

Older Songs About Travelling

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

You can find the translation of this beautiful song here .

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

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

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

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

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

67. Hank Williams – Ramblin’ Man (1951)

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

Songs about travelling – Final thoughts

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

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

Enjoyed this post? You may also like:

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

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

Laura Meyers

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

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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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93 Best Songs About Travel and Adventure for Your Playlist

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

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

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

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

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

Best Adventure Songs to Inspire Your Wanderlust

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

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

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

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

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

Travel and Adventure Songs from Country Artists

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

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

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

Best Songs for Beach Vacations

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

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

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

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

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

Relaxing Adventure & Travel Songs

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

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

Favorite Rock Songs About Travel

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

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

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

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

Best Classic Songs About Adventure and Travel

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

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

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

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

Contemporary Songs About Travel

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

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

Best Travel Songs for Reels and TikTok

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

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

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

Final Thoughts: Best Adventure Songs for your Playlist

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

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

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

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

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

Love to ALL! ~ Susan

Did I Forget Any of the Very Best Adventure Songs?

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

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

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

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15 Best Songs About Travel

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

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

1. 'Kokomo' by The Beach Boys

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

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

2. 'Carolina in My Mind' by James Taylor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. 'Sweet Home Alabama' by Lynyrd Skynyrd

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. 'April in Paris' by Ella Fitzgerald

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

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

10. 'Atlantic City' by Bruce Springsteen

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. 'Margaritaville' by Jimmy Buffet

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

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

13. 'Africa' by Toto

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. 'America' by Neil Diamond

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

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

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

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: July 7, 2022

Categories Travel Tips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Alaska by Maggie Rogers

“I was walking through icy streams

That took my breath away

Moving slowly through westward water

Over glacial plains

And I walked off you

And I walked off an old me

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

So it seemed”

2. Taj Mahal by Sam Roberts Band

“Sitting with you on the banks of the Ganges

Stealing a kiss on the streets of Bombay

Caressing your hair like the wind through the palm trees

I never dreamed that anyone could take you away

Keep on keep on keep on singing

I’m building a beautiful statue

To make sure that no one forgets you”

3. Carolina in My Mind by James Taylor

“In my mind I’m gone to Carolina

Can’t you see the sunshine?

Can’t you just feel the moonshine?

And, ain’t it just like a friend of mine

To hit me from behind?

Yes, I’m gone to Carolina in my mind”

4. New York State of Mind by Billy Joel

Some folks like to get away

Take a holiday from the neighborhood

Hop a flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood

But I’m takin’ a Greyhound on the Hudson River line

I’m in a New York state of mind”

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

5. Hello Seattle by Owl City

“Hello Seattle, I am a manta ray

Deep beneath the blue waves

I’ll crawl the sandy bottom of Puget Sound

And construct my summer home”

6. Miles from Minnesota by The Lower 48

“Yes next year we’ll go traveling

Our escapades so baffling

Our sovereign love returning to the sea

We’ll be miles from Minnesota then

Writing letters we won’t send

For no words shall contain what will be

Well your sweet voice and my rough hands

When darkness prowls we will dance

Through bluffs and fields and orchards with the moon

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

Fall’s warm embrace is coming to us soon

Oh! We’ve got everywhere to go

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

7. God Blessed Texas by Little Texas

“God blessed Texas

With His own hand

Brought down angels from the promised land

Gave ’em a place where they could dance

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

I’ve been sent to spread the message

God blessed Texas”

8. Graceland by Paul Simon

“The Mississippi Delta was shining

Like a National guitar

I am following the river

Down the highway

Through the cradle of the civil war

I’m going to Graceland”

9. Miles Away by The Maine

“I took a trip up the west coast

Was searching for a temp so low

And a summer high

The Sun swayed and set slow

Made waves with some friends I know

Got lost in the ebb and flow

Of the drifting tide

I didn’t ever want to come down

From that west coast rush and summer high

And easy, peaceful sense of time”

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

“I’m a sailor peg

And I’ve lost my leg

Climbing up the top sails

I’ve lost my leg!

I’m shipping up to Boston, whoa

I’m shipping off to find my wooden leg”

11. Lovers in Japan by Coldplay

“Tonight, maybe we’re gonna run

Dreamin’ of the Osaka sun

Ohh, ohh, ohhh

Dreamin’ of when the morning comes”

12. Aux Champs-Élysées by Joe Dassin

“Aux Champs-Elysées, aux Champs-Elysées

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

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

And in English:

“Champs-Elysees, Champs-Elysees

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

There is everything you want on the Champs-Elysées”

I’m Shipping Up To Boston – Dropkick Murphys

I’m a sailor peg

13. Rock the Casbah by The Clash

“Sharif don’t like it

Rockin’ the Casbah

Rock the Casbah

Sharif don’t like it

Rock the Casbah”

14. Brazil by Declan McKenna

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

‘Cause everybody plays the beautiful game while out in Brazil

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

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

15. Surfin’ USA by The Beach Boys

“Haggerties and Swamies

Pacific Palisades

San Anofree and Sunset

Redondo Beach L. A.

All over La Jolla

At Waimea Bay

Everybody’s gone surfin’

Surfin’ U.S. A.”

16. California by Phantom Planet

“Hustlers grab your guns

Your shadow weighs a ton

Driving down the 101

California here we come

Right back where we started from

California, here we come.”

17. Mexico by James Taylor

“Way down here you need a reason to move

Feel a fool running your stateside games

Lose your load, leave your mind behind Baby Jane

It sounds so simple I just got to go

The sun’s so hot I forgot to go home

Guess I’ll have to go now”

18. Beverly Hills by Weezer

“Beverly Hills

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

Livin’ in Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills

Rollin’ like a celebrity (gimme, gimme)

Livin’ in Beverly Hills”

19. Barcelona by George Ezra

“Every time you have to go

Shut my eyes and you know

I’ll be lying right by your side

In Barcelona”

20. Rocky Road to Dublin by The Irish Descendants

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

To be so soon deprived a view of that fine city

So then I took a stroll down among the quality

Me bundle it was stolen in a neat locality

Something crossed me mind, then I looked behind

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

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

On the rocky road to Dublin”

21. America by Simon & Garfunkel

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

Michigan seems like a dream to me now

It took me four days to hitchhike from Saginaw

I’ve gone to look for America”

22. Walking in Memphis by Marc Cohn

“Saw the ghost of Elvis

On Union Avenue

Followed him up to the gates of Graceland

Then I watched him walk right through

Now security they did not see him

They just hovered ’round his tomb

But there’s a pretty little thing

Waiting for the King

Down in the Jungle Room

When I was walking in Memphis

I was walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale

Walking in Memphis

But do I really feel the way I feel?”

23. Africa by Toto

“The wild dogs cry out in the night

As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company

I know that I must do what’s right

As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti

I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become

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

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

I bless the rains down in Africa

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

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

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

“Today’s your day

You paved the way

If you get down get up oh oh

When you get down get up eh eh

Tsamina mina zangalewa

This time for Africa”

25. Marrakech Express by Crosby, Stills, & Nash

“Take the train from Casablanca going south

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

Colored cottons hang in air

Charming cobras in the square

Striped jellabas we can wear at home

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

26. Blue Hawaii by Elvis Presley

“Come with me

While the moon is on the sea

The night is young

And so are we, so are we

Dreams come true

In blue Hawaii”

27. I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

“I’ve been everywhere, man

I’ve been everywhere, man

Crossed the deserts bare, man

I’ve breathed the mountain air, man

Travel, I’ve had my share, man

I’ve been everywhere

I’ve been to

Winslow”

28. Rio by Netsky and featuring Macklemore

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

Swimming in the ocean like the pool is hella heated

Expedited Visa and I’m posted with my feet up

Parasailing over beaches, got my girl from Ipanema”

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

“Well the Ukraine girls really knock me out

They leave the West behind

And Moscow girls make me sing and shout

That Georgia’s always on my mind

Aw come on!

Yeah I’m back in the U.S.S.R.

You don’t know how lucky you are boys

Back in the U.S.S.R.”

30. April in Paris by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

“I never knew the charm of spring

I never met it face to face

I never knew my heart could sing

I never missed a warm embrace

Till April in Paris, chestnuts in blossom

Holiday tables under the trees

April in Paris, this is a feeling”

31. Budapest by George Ezra

“My house in Budapest

My hidden treasure chest

Golden grand piano

My beautiful Castillo

I’d leave it all

My acres of a land

I have achieved

It may be hard for you to

Stop and believe

But for you

I’d Leave it all

Give me one good reason

Why I should never make a change

And baby if you hold me

Then all of this will go away.”

32. Viva Las Vegas by Elvis Presley

Bright light city gonna set my soul

Gonna set my soul on fire

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

So get those stakes up higher

There’s a thousand pretty women waitin’ out there

And they’re all livin’ devil may care

And I’m just the devil with love to spare

Viva Las Vegas, viva Las Vegas”

33. Vienna by Ultravox

“The music is weaving

Haunting notes, pizzicato strings

The rhythm is calling

Alone in the night as the daylight brings

A cool empty silence

The warmth of your hand and a cold grey sky

It fades to the distance

The image has gone only you and I

It means nothing to me

This means nothing to me

Oh, Vienna”

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

“He’s leaving (leaving)

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

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

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

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

35. Malibu by Miley Cyrus

“But here I am

Next to you

The sky is so blue

Next to you”

36. New York Groove by Ace Frehley

“Many years since I was here

On the street I was passin’ my time away

To the left and to the right,

Buildings towering to the sky

It’s outta sight in the dead of night

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

And baby, you’d better believe

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

37. Road to Nowhere by the Talking Heads

“We’re on a road to nowhere

Come on inside

Takin’ that ride to nowhere

We’ll take that ride”

38. California Love by Tupac and Dr. Dre

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

Let me serenade the streets of L.A

From Oakland to Sacktown

The Bay Area and back down

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

California, knows how to party

In the city of L.A.

In the city of good ol’ Watts

In the city, the city of Compton

We keep it rocking”

39. Renegades by X Ambassadors

“Run away-ay with me

Lost souls in revelry

Running wild and running free

Two kids, you and me

Hey, hey-hey-hey

Livin’ like we’re renegades

Hey-hey-hey

Renegades.”

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

40. Miami by Will Smith

“Party in the city where the heat is on

All night, on the beach till the break of dawn

‘Welcome to Miami’

‘Bienvenidos a Miami’

Bouncin’ in the club where the heat is on

I’m goin to Miami

‘Welcome to Miami'”

41. The Wanderer by Dion DiMucci

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

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

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

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

Yeah I’m the wanderer, yeah the wanderer

I roam around around around, let’s go”

42. Hotel California by The Eagles

“Welcome to the Hotel California

Such a lovely place (Such a lovely place)

Such a lovely face

Plenty of room at the Hotel California

Any time of year (Any time of year)

You can find it here.”

43. Where the Streets Have No Name by U2

“Where the streets have no name

Where the streets have no name

We’re still building then burning down love

Burning down love

And when I go there, I go there with you

It’s all I can do.”

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

“In New York (Ay, aha) (Uh, yeah)

Concrete jungle (Yeah) where dreams are made of

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

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

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

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

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

New York (Yeah), New York (Uh)”

45. Around the World by Daft Punk

“Around the world, around the world

Around the world, around the world

Around the world, around the world”

46. Down Under by Men at Work

“Buying bread from a man in Brussels

He was six foot four and full of muscle

I said, “Do you speak-a my language?”

He just smiled and gave me a Vegemite sandwich

And he said:

I come from a land down under

Where beer does flow and men chunder

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

You better run, you better take cover.”

47. Traveling On by The Decemberists

“Cause we’re traveling on

Sold for a song

We’re traveling on

And it won’t be long

‘Til we’re traveling on”

48. Hopeless Wanderer by Mumford & Sons

“But hold me fast, hold me fast

‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer

And hold me fast, hold me fast

‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer”

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

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

The one with the prettiest of views

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

But it sure would be prettier with you

When I’m gone

You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone

You’re gonna miss me by my walk

You’re gonna miss me by my talk, oh

You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone”

50. Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen

“Someday girl I don’t know when

We’re gonna get to that place

Where we really wanna go

And we’ll walk in the sun

But till then tramps like us

Baby we were born to run”

51. Moon River by Audrey Hepburn

“Two drifters, off to see the world

There’s such a lot of world to see

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

My huckleberry friend, moon river, and me”

52. Life is a Highway by Rascal Flatts

“Life is a highway

I wanna ride it all night long

If you’re going my way

I wanna drive it all night long”

53. Kathmandu by Bob Seger

“I think I’m going to Katmandu

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

If I ever get out of here

That’s what I’m gonna do

I know my plane is due

The one that’s going to Katmandu

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

K-k-k-k-k-k Kathmandu‍”

54. The Passenger by Iggy Pop

“I am a passenger

And I ride and I ride

I ride through the city’s backside

I see the stars come out of the sky

Yeah, they’re bright in a hollow sky

You know it looks so good tonight

I am a passenger

I stay under glass

I look through my window so bright

I see the stars come out tonight

I see the bright and hollow sky

Over the city’s ripped-back sky

And everything looks good tonight”

55. Havana by Camila Cabello

“Havana, ooh na-na

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

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

Oh, but my heart is in Havana” ‍

56. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

“You got a fast car

Is it fast enough so we can fly away?

We gotta make a decision

Leave tonight or live and die this way”

57. Paris by The Chainsmokers

“We were staying in Paris

To get away from your parents

You look so proud

Standing there with a frown and a cigarette

Posting pictures of yourself on the internet”

58. Hotel Walls by Smith & Thell

“So I stand back and I watch us fall

As we break everything inside these hotel walls

Life’s for rent and it called us out

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

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

59. Vacation by The Go-Go’s

“Vacation

All I ever wanted

Had to get away

Meant to be spent alone”

60. On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons

‘Cause I’m on top of the world, ‘ey

I’m on top of the world, ‘ey

Waiting on this for a while now

Paying my dues to the dirt

I’ve been waiting to smile, ‘ey

Been holding it in for a while, ‘ey

Take it with me if I can

Been dreaming of this since a child

I’m on top of the world”

61. No Sleep Till Brooklyn by The Beastie Boys

“No sleep ’till

No sleep ’till Brooklyn

No sleep till Brooklyn”

62. Barcelona by Ed Sheeran

“And you and I we’re flying on an airplane tonight

We’re going somewhere where the sun is shining bright

Just close your eyes

And let’s pretend we’re dancing in the street

In Barcelona

Barcelona”

63. Homeward Bound by Simon & Garfunkel

“Every day’s an endless stream

Of cigarettes and magazines

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

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

Homeward bound

I wish I was

Home where my thought’s escaping

Home where my music’s playing

Home where my love lies waiting

Silently for me”

64. Tennessee by Arrested Development

“They tell me my ears are so young

Go back, from whence you came

My family tree, my family name

For some strange reason it had to be

He guided me to Tennessee

Take me to another place, take me to another land

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

65. In America by Neil Diamond

“Everywhere around the world

They’re coming to America

Every time that flag’s unfurled

Got a dream to take them there

Got a dream they’ve come to share

They’re coming to America”

66. No Roots by Alice Merton

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

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

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

I count gates and numbers, then play the guessing game

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

And a thousand times I’ve seen this road

A thousand times

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

67. California Dreamin’ by the Mamas and the Papas

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

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

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

On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day)

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

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

California dreamin’ (California dreamin’)

On such a winter’s day”

68. Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus

“I hopped off the plane at LAX

With a dream and my cardigan

Welcome to the land of fame excess (Whoa)

Am I gonna fit in?

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

Look to my right, and I see the Hollywood sign

This is all so crazy

Everybody seems so famous

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

Too much pressure and I’m nervous

That’s when the taxi man turned on the radio

And a JAY-Z song was on

So I put my hands up

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

I’m noddin’ my head like, “Yeah”

Movin’ my hips like, “Yeah”

Got my hands up, they’re playing my song

You know I’m gonna be okay

Yeah, it’s a party in the U.S.A.

Yeah, it’s a party in the U.S.A.”

69. Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran

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

But she fell in love with an Englishman

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

Said, “Baby, I just wanna dance”

With my pretty little Galway girl

You’re my pretty little Galway girl”

70. Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz

I want to get away

I want to fly away

Yeah, yeah, yeah‍”

71. Kokomo by The Beach Boys

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

Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama

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

Ooh, I want to take you down to Kokomo

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

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

72. Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffett

“Wastin’ away again in Margaritaville

Searchin’ for my lost shaker of salt

Salt, salt, salt

Some people claim that there’s a woman to blame

I agree with that

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

73. Have Love Will Travel by The Sonics

Yeah, I travel from Maine to Mexico

Just to find a little girl that loves me so

No matter when, no matter where I’ll be

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

Whoa, baby, will travel

I said, yeah, yeah, have love

Woah, baby, will travel

I said, if you need loving then

Mm, hmm, I’ll travel

Woah!”

74. Chicago by Sufjan Stevens

“I fell in love again

All things go, all things go

Drove to Chicago

All things know, all things know”

75. One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head

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

The bars are temples but the pearls ain’t free

You’ll find a god in every golden cloister

A little flesh, a little history

I can feel an angel sliding up to me”

76. Leaving on a Jetplane by John Denver

“So kiss me and smile for me

Tell me that you’ll wait for me

Hold me like you’ll never let me go

‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane

Don’t know when I’ll be back again

Oh babe, I hate to go”

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

“But I would roll 500 miles

And I would roll 500 more

Just to be the man who roles a thousand miles

To fall down at your door”

78. Ramblin’ Man by The Allman Brothers Band

“I’m on my way to New Orleans this mornin’

I’m leavin’ out of Nashville, Tennessee

They’re always having a good time down on the bayou

Lord, them Delta women think the world of me

Lord, I was born a ramblin’ man

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

And when it’s time for leavin’

I hope you’ll understand

That I was born a ramblin’ man”

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

“Every gal in Constantinople

Lives in Istanbul, not Constantinople

So if you’ve a date in Constantinople

She’ll be waiting in Istanbul

Even old New York was once New Amsterdam

Why they changed it I can’t say

People just liked it better that way”

80. Vertigo by FM Belfast

“We are going far away

We are going far away

Don’t you look down

You are high above ground

We are driving with our friends

We are driving to a faraway place”

81. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

“Sweet home Alabama

Where the skies are so blue

Sweet home Alabama

Lord, I’m comin’ home to you”

82. On the Road Again by Willie Nelson

“On the road again

Like a band of gypsies, we go down the highway

We’re the best of friends

Insisting that the world keep turning our way

And our way

Is on the road again”

83. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf

“Born to be wild

Born to be wild

Get your motor runnin’

Head out on the highway

Looking for adventure

In whatever comes our way”

84. Roam by The B-52’s

“Roam if you want to

Roam around the world

Roam if you want to

Without wings, without wheels

Without anything but the love we feel”

85. Send Me on My Way by Rusted Root

Well, I would like to hold my little hand

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

I would like to hold my little hand

And we will run, we will, we will crawl

Send me on my way (on my way)”

86. Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

“Country roads, take me home

To the place I belong

West Virginia, mountain mama

Take me home, country roads”

87. San Francisco by Scott McKenzie

“If you’re going to San Francisco

Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair

If you’re going to San Francisco

You’re gonna meet some gentle people there.”

88. London Calling by The Clash

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

Engines stop running, the wheat is growin’ thin

A nuclear era, but I have no fear

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

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

“And all the roads we have to walk are winding

And all the lights that lead us there are blinding

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

Because maybe

You’re gonna be the one that saves me

And after all

You’re my wonderwall”

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

90. Come Fly With Me by Frank Sinatra

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

If you can use some exotic booze

There’s a bar in far Bombay

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

91. Truckin’ by the Grateful Dead

“Truckin’, like the do-dah man

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

Sometimes the cards ain’t worth a dime

If you don’t lay ’em down.”

92. What We Live For by American Authors

“We’re taking off, woo

We’re taking off, woo

This is what I live for

Baby, you’re my open road.”

93. Holiday by Madonna

“If we took a holiday

Took some time to celebrate

Just one day out of life

It would be, it would be so nice.”

94. Gravity by Cold Play

“Baby

It’s been a long time coming

Such a long, long time

And I can’t stop running

Can you hear my heart beating?

Can you hear that sound?

‘Cause I can’t help thinking

And I won’t stop now“

95. Leaving Las Vegas by Cheryl Crow

“I’m leaving Las Vegas

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

Leaving Las Vegas

Leaving for good, for good

I’m leaving for good

I’m leaving for good”

96. Free by Donovan Frankenreiter

“Here comes corner winds and the changin’ tide

We better drop them sails and get inside

When will the weather ever let us go

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

97. Come Away with Me by Norah Jones

“Come away with me and we’ll kiss

On a mountain top

Come away with me

And I’ll never stop lovin’ you”

98. American Boy by Estelle and featuring Kanye West

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

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

I really want to come kick it with you

You’ll be my American boy.”

99. Destination Calabria by Alex Gaudino featuring Crystal Waters

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

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

100. Toes by the Zac Brown Band

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

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

Life is good today”

101. Last Train Home by John Mayer

“I’m on the last train runnin’

I’m on the last train runnin’

And I surrender

And I surrender”

102. Two Tickets To Paradise by Eddie Money

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

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

We’ve waited so long, waited so long.

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

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

“Do you want to see the world?

In a different way, yeah”

104. A Million Miles Away by David Byrne

“Oh oh

A million miles away from here”

105. Space Oddity by David Bowie

“This is Major Tom to Ground Control

I’m stepping through the door

And I’m floating in a most peculiar way

And the stars look very different today

Am I sitting in a tin can

Far above the world

Planet Earth is blue

And there’s nothing I can do”

Additional Travel Resources You’ll Love

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

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

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

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Travel Tips and Trivia

Last Updated: January 23, 2024

120 Best Songs about Adventure [Travel Song Playlist Ideas!]

Trying to find the best songs about adventure to inspire wanderlust and take on the road with you? Check out this long list of 120 adventure songs and travel songs!

Danny Newman

Looking for some new songs about adventure to listen to on the road? I hope this list helps!

Some things just go well together, right?

Like salt and pepper. Or peanut butter and jelly.

Each respective element’s amazing in and of itself. But they’re made even better when you combine the two!

I think the same logic applies to music and travel .

Life on the road’s almost always improved when you have travel songs on in the background (or via your headphones)!

Likewise, at home, few things are more effective at inspiring a sense of wanderlust than the best songs about adventure.

…Or, for that matter, at transporting you instantly back in time to past journeys when they play over the radio.

All things considered, it seems to me that music and travel go hand in hand.

And, thankfully, talented musicians of past and present have blessed our ear holes with some epic adventure songs to take with us on our trips!

Want to discover a big long list of the best songs for travel? Keep reading for 120 songs about travel and adventure.

Here we go, then: 120 adventure songs for travellers!

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120 Best Adventure Songs, Travel Songs, and Songs About Journeys

Here we go, then: 120 of the best songs about travel and adventure, divided into sections to make everything a little more manageable!

Classic Songs About Adventure (with Lyrics!)

I decided to start with 20 classic adventure songs that we all know and love! Whether you’re looking for the perfect road trip playlist or a soundtrack for your next adventure, they’re sure to go down a treat.

1. Fly Away – Lenny Kravitz

I wish that I could fly Into the sky So very high Just like a dragonfly

I’d fly above the trees Over the seas in all degrees To anywhere I please, oh

I want to get away I want to fly away Yeah, yeah, yeah

Click here to listen to it on YouTube!

2. Born to Be Wild – Steppenwolf

Yeah, darlin’ Gonna make it happen Take the world in a love embrace Fire all of your guns at once And explode into space

Like a true nature child We were born Born to be wild We can climbed so high I never wanna die Born to be wild Born to be wild

3. 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) Send me on my way (on my way) Send me on my way (on my way)

4. On the Road Again – Willie Nelson

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

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

5. Have Love, Will Travel – The Sonics

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, I’ll travel Woah!

6. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Big wheels keep on turnin’ Carry me home to see my kin Singin’ songs about the south-land I miss Alabamy once again and I think it’s a sin, yes

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

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

But I would walk five hundred miles And I would walk five hundred more Just to be the man who walked a thousand miles To fall down at your door

8. Fast Car – Tracy Chapman

You got a fast car I want a ticket to anywhere Maybe we make a deal Maybe together we can get somewhere Any place is better Starting from zero got nothing to lose Maybe we’ll make something Me, myself, I got nothing to prove

9. Free – Donavon Frankenreiter

We could let this love be the fading sky Or we could drift all night until the new sunrise Pass me a drink or maybe two One for me and one for you

And we’ll be free Free Free Free

Some of the best travel songs have been around forever and a day!

10. Island in the Sun – Weezer

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

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

11. California Dreamin’ – The Mamas & 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 LA (if I was in LA) California dreamin’ (California dreamin’) On such a winter’s day

12. Carry on Wayward Son – Kansas

Carry on, my wayward son There’ll be peace when you are done Lay your weary head to rest Don’t you cry no more

Once I rose above the noise and confusion Just to get a glimpse beyond this illusion I was soaring ever higher But I flew too high

13. Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole

Somewhere over the rainbow Way up high And the dreams that you dream of Once in a lullaby, oh

Somewhere over the rainbow Bluebirds fly And the dreams that you dream of Dreams really do come true-ooh-ooh

14. A Horse with No Name – America

I’ve been through the desert On a horse with no name It felt good to be out of the rain In the desert, you can remember your name ‘Cause there ain’t no one for to give you no pain La, la, la, la, la, la La, la, la, la, la, la La, la, la, la, la, la La, la, la, la, la, la

15. Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen

In the day, we sweat it out on the streets Of a runaway American dream At night, we ride through mansions of glory In suicide machines Sprung from cages out on Highway 9 Chrome wheeled, fuel injected and steppin’ out over the line Oh, baby this town rips the bones from your back It’s a death trap, it’s a suicide rap We gotta get out while we’re young `Cause tramps like us, baby we were born to run Yes, girl, we were

16. The Passenger – Iggy Pop

I am the 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

17. Kokomo – The Beach Boys

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

18. Down Under – Men At Work

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

And she said:

Do you come from a land down under? Where women glow and men plunder Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder? You better run, you better take cover

19. Africa – 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 I stopped an old man along the way Hoping to find some old forgotten words or ancient melodies He turned to me as if to say, “Hurry boy, it’s waiting there for you”

20. I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash

I’ve been everywhere, man. 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.

Some of the best adventure songs I listen to are decades old!

Old-School Adventure songs

Like the classics above, many of my favourite travel songs come from way back in the day! They might be 30, 40, or 50+ years old, but they never fail to spark my wanderlust and get me exciting about travelling! I hope they do the same for you.

21. Beautiful Day – U2

22. Hells Bells – AC/DC

23. Sittin’ On the Dock of the Bay – Otis Redding

24. Norwegian Wood – The Beatles

25. Leaving On a Jet Plane – Peter, Paul, and Mary

26. Take Me Home, Country Roads – John Denver

27. Life Is a Highway – Rascal Flatts

28. Crosstown Traffic – Jimi Hendrix

29. Forever Young – Alphaville

30. Eagles – Hotel California

31. Ain’t No Sunshine – Bill Withers

32. Golden Brown – The Stranglers

33. Truckin’ – Grateful Dead

34. Ramblin’ Man – The Allman Brothers Band

35. Back In Black – AC/DC

36. In the Summertime – Mungo Jerry

37. What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong

38. Riders on the Storm – The Doors

39. Graceland – Paul Simon

40. Mr. Blue Sky – Electric Light Orchestra

If you’re into rock, indie, metal, or folk music, then make sure you check out the following 20 songs for travel!

Indie, Folk, Rock, & Metal Songs for travellers

If you prefer listening to hard rock, heavy metal, indie tunes, or folky ballads, then this section’s for you! Here’s a selection of epic songs for travel from each of these diverse genres.

41. Seven Nation Army – The White Stripes

42. Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac

43. Time of Your Life – Green Day

44. Wish You Were Here – Incubus

45. Hopeless Wanderer – Mumford & Sons

46. These Days – Foo Fighters

47. Here It Goes Again – OK Go

48. Take Me Out – Franz Ferdinand

49. Drive – Fu Manchu

50. Borders – Feeder

51. No Sleep Till Brooklyn – Beastie Boys

52. Like a Rolling Stone – Bob Dylan

53. Show Me How to Live – Audioslave

54. Wash It All Away – Five Finger Death Punch

55. My Favourite Game – The Cardigans

56. Wayfaring Strangers – Johnny Cash

57. Learn to Fly – Foo Fighters

58. Anywhere – Passenger

59. Shotgun – George Ezra

60. Not Done Yet – Sticky Fingers

After some of the best songs about travelling from recent times? The next section should do the trick!

Pop & Hip-Hop Songs about Travel and Adventure

Heads up, this section has a definite emphasis on recent pop music, but I threw in a couple of hip-hop tracks for good measure! With positive vibes and lyrics about making the most of life, these adventure songs should go well on any travel playlist you’re trying to put together.

61. What We Live For – American Authors

62. One Day/Reckoning Song – Asaf Avidan

63. Budapest – George Ezra

64. On Top of the World – Imagine Dragons

65. Malibu – Miley Cyrus

66. Summertime – Will Smith & DJ Jazzy Jeff

67. I Woke Up In a Car – Something Corporate

68. Drops of Jupiter – Train

69. New York – Alicia Keys

70. Midnight City – M83

71. Adventure of a Lifetime – Coldplay

72. Around the World – Daft Punk

73. Oceans Away – Arizona

74. Get Out – CHVRCHES

75. Thunder – Imagine Dragons

76. The Adventure – Angels & Airwaves

77. Live Before I Die – Mike Posner

78. Best Day Ever – Mac Miller

79. Rather Be – Clean Bandit

80. I’m Leaving – Mos Def

Chill songs about travel always do down a treat…

Chill Songs about Travel

I had two playlists on the old iPod I used to take travelling: “Chilled” and “Less Chilled”! If you’re looking for a laid-back song about travel, then this section should do the trick.

81. Follow the Sun – Xavier Rudd

82. Old Man – Neil Young

83. Kongos – Traveling On

84. Society – Eddie Vedder

85. Motoring Home – Sweet Baboo

86. Fly Away With Me – Tom Walker

87. Renegades – X Ambassadors

88. Porcelain – Moby

89. Sleep On the Floor – Lumineers

90. I Follow Rivers – Lykke Li

91. Safe Travels – Lisa Hannigan

92. Wild World – Cat Stevens

93. Wandering Eye – Fat Freddy’s Drop

94. Cycling Trivialities – Jose Gonzalez

95. Promise – Ben Howard

96. A Walk – Tycho

97. Pepita – Calexico

98. Nantes – Beirut

99. Wild Horses – The Rolling Stones

100. Sailing – Christopher Cross

Here are some of my personal favourite songs about travel and adventure to finish!

Best Songs for Travelling (My Personal Favourites!)

Last but not least, I thought I’d assemble 20 of my favourite songs for travelling. The coming tracks are a mix of different genres, styles, and vibes. For whatever reason, though, each one gets me raring to hit the road. I hope you like them!

101. Electric Feel – MGMT

102. Sweet Disposition – Temper Trap

103. Road Trippin’ – Red Hot Chili Peppers

104. Step Out – Jose Gonzalez

105. Travelling – Paper Lions

106. We Are the People – Empire of the Sun

107. Dirty Paws – Of Monsters and Men

108. Big Jet Plane – Angus and Julia Stone

109. You Only Live Once – The Strokes

110. Jungle – Tash Sultana

111. Home – Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros

112. Ocean – John Butler

113. Drive – Oh Wonder

114. Welcome Home – Radical Face

115. Traveller – Mungo’s Hi Fi

116. Chapinero – Thornato

117. Riptide – Vance Joy

118. Me Gustas Tu – Manu Chao

119. California – Phantom Planet

120. Permanent Holiday – Mike Love

Listen to These Songs about Adventure

I love listening to music when I travel.

It doesn’t matter whether I’m on an epic road trip with friends, waiting around in an airport, on a long bus journey, or whatever. I’ll turn on the radio, switch on the speakers, or put my headphones on to lose myself in a travel song or two.

However, there’s no denying that listening to music on the road (or at home, for that matter) is ten times better when you’re playing particular travel songs !

Some tracks just seem purpose-written to complement the travelling experience, evoke a pulsating sense of wanderlust, or make you nostalgic for bygone trips.

Have you been searching for the best songs about adventure that tick these types of boxes? Well, I hope this list of 120 adventure songs has helped!

Keep them in mind, download them to your phone, and enjoy these songs for travellers whenever you’re next away.

Do you have any other suggestions that you think should be on this list? Drop a comment below and I’ll be sure to add it in.

45 Best Songs about Traveling and Adventure for Inspiration

Whether it is a road trip across America or a day trip to the beach with your best friend, every adventure needs an awesome playlist! Music is one of the best ways to set the mood for any outing, but especially vacations.

In this article, you will find the best songs about traveling and adventure. You will hear some great songs from road trips, fun beach ditties, and romantic wanderlust beats. Read on for some amazing tunes sure to kick your mood into overdrive and give you that traveler’s itch.

“Life Is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts

Song year: 2008

If you are on a road trip, this song is a staple for the journey! Road trips can be a boring thing if the destination is on your mind rather than the journey itself, but give this song a listen and suddenly that highway is much more intriguing! You never know what you will be able to see or do along the way.

While you are at it, put it on repeat. It really is just that good.

“Route 66” by Chuck Berry

Song year: 1946

This song reminds you that places often have a fantastic story behind them. Chuck Berry embraces the history of Route 66 and the thrill of traveling on it. With a piano front and center, the music even feels historic.

History may not be your favorite thing, but no one can deny the awesome past of Route 66. There is even a section of that road that plays “America the Beautiful” if you drive on the rumble strips going the speed limit. That would make a pretty great TikTok video.

“Mustang Sally” by Wilson Pickett

Song year: 1966

Even a dented Buick will feel like a Mustang with this song blasting from the speakers and you will surely feel like a goddess at the wheel. It may have come out decades ago, but this is one song that will never be old!

“Chillin’ It” by Cole Swindell

Song year: 2014

With a happy and carefree energy to it, this song is absolutely lovely for driving down the open road with the top down and hair flowing. The beat even makes it the perfect sing-along song. Cole Swindell’s voice is perfect in this song, with a nearly unparalleled energy to it.

“Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line

Song year: 2012

This song has more of an aimless journey feel to it, perfect for those trips to anywhere. Pop this on, shift into drive, and find out where on the map you end up. You can even double the fun and bring your best friend with you! The talented musicians in Florida Georgia Line would definitely approve.

“Rhythm Made Me Do It” by Shania Twain

Song year: 1999

Shania has the perfect voice for a road trip and this song is decidedly more rock than most of her other songs. The combination makes for some great highway driving music!

Even though her other songs are not necessarily about vacationing, they would still make some great additions to your road trip playlist, as well. She is certainly one of Canada’s best contributions to the music scene.

“Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf

Song year: 1969

You may not be a biker, but this song sure will have you feeling like one. You can almost feel the snarl of a powerful bike under you as you weave in and out of traffic on a busy highway. Unleash your wild side with this on your playlist, even if you are traveling on four wheels instead of two.

“Highway to Hell” by AC/DC

Song year: 1979

If you are not careful when you listen to this one while driving, you will end up with a speeding ticket! This song embodies throwing out the rules and going with the flow. Just be sure you listen to it on the way to vacation, before all of those questionable decisions have been made!

“Electric Avenue” by Eddie Grant

Whether it is Electric Avenue or the open road, your car will dance right along with you as you listen to this classic. Few songs stay as popular and well-known as this one has over the last decade.

“Margaritaville” by Jimmy Buffet and Alan Jackson

Song year: 1977

It is almost criminal to spend a day at the beach without enjoying this delightful song! If any song is perfect for lounging in the sand with a colorful mixed drink, this is it. You can feel yourself relax from your head to your toes, leaving all your worries behind as you head for the beach.

“Vacation” by Thomas Rhett

Song year: 2015

While it definitely has an unusual tone, it captures all of the essentials of those sunny beach days. It is a fantastic hidden gem in the beach music world! Pop it in, crank it up, and dance your vacation away, preferably with a drink that has one of those cute little umbrellas in it. Do not forget your sunscreen!

“No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” by Kenny Chesney

Song year: 2002

Even the title sums up exactly how you want a beach trip to go. Kenny delivers a fantastically fun song that has you feeling the sand between your toes, even if you are not at the beach. For those who are not fond of country music, you should not count this one out until you listen to it. It is definitely not your usual country song.

“Pontoon” by Little Big Town

Who does not want to spend the day on a pontoon? Most people have great childhood memories of days spent out on the lake with family or friends and this song makes for some serious nostalgia. Summer rays, good friends, and good fishing…the perfect trifecta!

“Some Beach” by Blake Shelton

Song year: 2004

While this song is about wishing you were at the beach, you sure feel the satisfaction when you play it while you are actually there! Perfect mental images coupled with Blake’s velvety voice make this song more than ideal for a day on the sand. Even better, you fully appreciate the break from the daily grind that comes with a beach day.

“Cake by the Ocean” by DNCE

If you want to dance on the beach, this is the song you want to play. With a delightfully original beat and fun, quirky lyrics, few beach songs compare to this one! The lyrics are original and flow wonderfully with the overall feel of the song being incredibly playful.

Having been featured on the Teen Choice Awards, this is a great song for the whole family to enjoy during vacation. Your kids will probably even recognize it!

“Toes” by the Zac Brown Band

Song year: 2006

You will feel like you are already in the Bahamas when listening to this song. This band’s mental imagery is strong in both the lyrics and the beat. You would swear you can feel your toes squishing through the damp sand with the waves rushing up towards your beach chair.

Be sure to watch out for the tide!

“Kokomo” by The Beach Boys

Song year: 1988

This song is everything a steamy Bahamas vacation with your special someone should be. With major honeymoon vibes, listening to this will have your blood pressure rising and looking at your partner with fire in your eyes. The only other thing you need is a cute beach bungalow for the week…right on the sand, of course!

“Soak up the Sun” by Sheryl Crow

While this song definitely feels beachy, the beat is a bit more unusual than average. Even so, it is no less fun and catchy. Sheryl certainly knows what she is doing!

No one would be surprised if this song is responsible for more than a couple people calling in “sick” for a day to hit the beach.

“Blame it on Mexico” by George Strait

Song year: 1981

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, and the same is true for Mexico! A Mexican beach is the perfect place to really let loose, and this song showcases that euphoria. Until you have been to Mexico, it is difficult to fully appreciate the unique ambiance of the country’s resort towns.

Do not forget to have a drink in a coconut shell cup! It is a Mexican vacation staple, after all.

“Island Song” by Zac Brown Band

This number has that classic Caribbean feel to it that everyone loves. It is so easy to visualize a bongo player showing off their tunes on the beach you are walking, mai tai in hand. Even better, two mai tais. Because priorities, you know.

“Redneck Yacht Club” by Craig Morgan

Song year: 2005

In all honesty, not every vacation is chic and expensive. Sometimes, it is just friends gathering and having a good time. In those cases, Craig Morgan lifts redneck to chic with this fantastic song. You certainly do not need a yacht to have a great time; you just need great people and the space to have some fun!

“I Get Around” by The Beach Boys

Song year: 1963

This is a fun, catchy tune with gobs of energy. The harmonization is so natural that you will probably find yourself humming along without even realizing it.

Besides, what vacation would be complete without the Beach Boys? The saying “oldie but goodie” absolutely personifies this group as a whole. If you enjoy their sound, check out the rest of their music for your playlist! Most of their songs fit perfectly with the beach vibe.

“Long Hot Summer” by Keith Urban

Song year: 2010

Summer has all the best things and Keith Urban knows it. He captures everything from the road trip to the beach to the night sky in the middle of summer. Your worries vanish while listening to this song and that traveler’s itch makes itself known. Do yourself a favor and listen to the call!

“All Summer Long” by Kid Rock

Song year: 2007

This song has always been a tried-and-true staple for river tubing playlists. It feels both nostalgic for childhood summers and perfect for summer activities with family nowadays. Michigan, where Kid Rock is from, is chock full of rivers and lakes, so day trips are a normal summer activity here.

Not all summer vacations involve a long road trip or even multiple days. Sometimes, the best memories are made close to home. This song drives home the point that they are no less special because of that.

“Sunshine and Summertime” by Faith Hill

One of the most notable women in country music, Faith Hill kills it with this fun summertime song. She personifies all of our hopes for this fun season, with optimism and happiness oozing from every note.

“Sideways” by Dierks Bentley

Song year: 2009

If you are going to a party, this song should absolutely be on your playlist. You can feel the energy of the dance floor in every syllable. With the crowd going crazy in the background, the ambiance is undeniable and infectious.

Remember, no one cares if you dance perfectly, so show off those moves even if you do not think you have them. Having fun is what matters!

“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper

Song year: 1983

A classic song about adventure, this one specifically about vacationing with your best friend. This one is best played at maximum volume! Cyndi Lauper has a very fun, infectious voice with a range that is so easy to sing along to. Besides, girls really do want to have fun!

“Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus

Given Miley’s reputation, this song was a pleasant surprise. It perfectly captures the essence of a summer bash with a high-energy beat and cheerful lyrics . The spring break vibes are strong with this one and it gives you a strong urge to hit the dance floor and dance your worries away.

“Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Song year: 1974

An indisputable staple of vacation songs, this number is perfect for southern road trips, in particular! Roll the windows down and sing along with the wind in your hair. It may be cliche, but they are cliches for a very good reason!

Bonus points for each car you can get to sing along with you! It definitely will not be hard.

“Catch and Release” by Matt Simons

We go on vacation to take a much needed break from real life and all of its responsibilities. When listening to this song, those responsibilities melt away and life becomes full of possibilities you could not see before. The itch to travel is made so obvious as these calming lyrics wash over you and you find yourself remembering what life is all about.

“Time Well Wasted” by Brad Paisley

This song throws into sharp relief how utterly important it is to take some time to enjoy life. After all, if you are not spending time on things you enjoy, what even is the point of this daily grind? Everyone can hear you loud and clear, Brad…mental health is important, too! Go “waste” sometime this summer.

“Drift Away” by Uncle Kracker

Most of Uncle Kracker’s songs are very explicit, but this one is an exception. No matter where you are, you will mentally drift away when listening to it! Everyone yearns for adventure and this song makes you want it even more.

Unlike most of his other songs, this is even appropriate for your children to hear, so there is no reason to be shy about blasting it in the car on the way to your destination.

“Katmandu” by Bob Seger

Song year: 1976

Everyone wants to go exploring after listening to this song, boasting the intricacies of a new place. Exploration and adventure are both in your very nature and Bob Seger knows that, without a doubt. You should go visit Katmandu, yeah?

“Ramblin’ Man” by The Allman Brothers Band

While people usually love living near family and having roots, the way this band describes the open road makes anyone yearn for the traveling lifestyle. Every note drips with freedom and a carefree attitude. You never know what you will find around the next bend and listening to this will have you aching to find out what is out there.

“Free Man in Paris” by Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell wrote this for a close coworker who mentioned that he loves Paris because of how it makes him feel. In her true style, Joni turned that into a song, even using his direct quotes in the lyrics.

The result was an almost haunting song that makes you not only hear what Paris is like, but truly feel it in your soul. One day, you will enjoy a buttery croissant at a Parisian cafe with a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower.

“Laredo” by Band of Horses

This song connects everyday difficulties with the relief a vacation offers. Everyone has had terrible days at the office or experienced that crushing feeling of life passing us by. Let this song take you away from all of that hardship and get some relief, even if you cannot physically get away from the daily grind.

“Heaven is A Place On Earth” by Belinda Carlisle

Most people know this song, which makes it a great singalong. It has lyrics that go with many interpretations, so even though it is not technically about traveling, it can certainly be interpreted that way! Even better, it is perfect for traveling couples looking for adventure.

“What We Live For” by American Authors

Song year: 2016

This tune makes you ache for a trip with your sweetheart. Too often, couples spend their lives firmly planted on the couch, binging Netflix shows, together but not truly bonding. These lyrics make it obvious what people are missing in that rut. Getting out of your comfort zone can be hard, but listening to this will make it that much easier to take that first step.

“Springsteen” by Eric Church

Song year: 2011

Beautiful songs about adventure and summer love always give me the carefree feeling that you crave on vacation. It feels like you are a teenager again, listening to Bruce Springsteen croon on my tape deck while drawing hearts around a certain picture in my yearbook. You may laugh, but you know everyone has done it! Let the memories wash over you with this well-crafted ballad.

“Adventure” by Matthew Parker

Who doesn’t want adventure? With a foot-tapping beat and emotionally intimate lyrics, this song showcases the best a relationship has to offer. Dreams are important to all of us and they feel so easily within reach while listening to Matthew Parker’s song. What is even better is the opportunity to include a person you love in those memories.

“When the Sun Goes Down” by Kenny Chesney feat. Uncle Kracker

A steamy beach song for couples, this touches on the more intimate aspects of a relationship! Even so, most children will not recognize it for what it is, as this song is chock full of innuendos that most young ears will not pick up on.

If you were a country enthusiast back in the day, nostalgia definitely comes into play, as well. Who else spent yesteryear playing this song on repeat?

“Watermelon Sugar” by Harry Styles

Song year: 2020

A newer release, this quirky song is full of innuendos comparing a person you love with summertime. Of course, both of those things can elicit the same emotional response, so it definitely fits. It is certainly more fun than lovey, but still works with the theme! Besides, all relationships need more than a little fun.

“Come Away With Me” by Norah Jones

This is a slower song, but definitely a sweet one about traveling with the person you love. Making memories together is a wonderful part of any relationship and this song captures that essence beautifully. More intimate than most songs on this list, it nevertheless earned its place with ease.

“Destination Calabria” by Alex Gaudino

Even if you love your life, this song will still make you want to quit your job, throw your phone into a lake somewhere, and drive until you find something interesting!

The perfect balance between steamy and adventurous make this a great go-to song for traveling lovebirds, as well as a great inspiration for a trip without a destination. Everyone can use a little more whimsy in their lives.

“Not Today” by Imagine Dragons

Featured in the movie Me Before You, this song is perfect for those couples who are looking to find adventure and make memories together. The lyrics are flexible enough that it always feels personal, no matter what your personal situation is.

Imagine Dragons has made quite a name for themselves recently and this song is a prime example of why they have earned that spotlight.

Top Songs about Traveling and Adventure, Final Thoughts

Most of the songs about traveling on this list are catchy, fun, and whimsical in nature. If vacationing has a mood, that is definitely it. You may have a habit of giving up your vacation time, which can be great for the wallet but terrible for your state of mind. Be open to it and this list can remind you of those joyful moments that you need.

Life can be unpredictable sometimes and it is up to you to embrace that and let it carry you away once in a while. So throw that top down, turn your volume up, and go enjoy life! Your to-do list will still be there when you get back.

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The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust

Written By: The Planet D

Inspiration

Updated On: March 2, 2023

The best travel songs playlist had an outstanding turn out by The Planet D fans.

We wanted to hear, what songs inspire travel, make you think of a destination, or simply make you want to hit the road, so we asked our readers to share their favorite songs about travel.

We had such an awesome response that now have a huge list of the best travel songs as chosen by you ! There were a lot of duplicate votes for but after adding up the choices, these are the top songs.

Table of Contents

The Best Travel Songs Playlist

We took some of our favorite quotes from people when they chose their favorite songs about travel and you can read what they below.

• If you want some more travel inspiration, check out our 101 Ultimate Travel Quotes.
• Looking for a different playlist? We’ve rounded up the best road trip songs to rock the long drive.

If you have a song to add to our playlist leave a comment below. We update this list regularly

1. Africa by Toto

Nothing makes me want to go to Africa more than this song by Toto.

They capture it beautifully with their lyrics and each time I listen to it, I am brought back to camping in the desert listening to the dog crying out in the night.

Or it makes me think of climbing Kilimanjaro towering over the Serengeti. And it has had a renaissance getting a lot of air time.

“The wild dogs cry out in the night As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company I know that I must do what’s right As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become”

Dina Rosita Koudys says “ Not exactly about traveling, but it does mention Africa, Kilimanjaro, and Serengeti. And I love the song!

We replied to Dina saying,  “We think Africa is exactly a travel song. It is our favorite song about travel and makes us want to see the Serengeti again and again.”

2. Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran

Ireland is one of our favorite country’s to visit and when Ed Sheeran wrote about Galway it brought us right back to being in the pubs there.

A lot of playlists omit the modern travel songs, but musicians these days have explored more of the world than anyone. And Ed Sheeran is a huge traveler.

We saw Ed Sheeran on Graham Norton talking about his travels and we love his free spirit and down to earth attitude.

“I meet her on Grafton street right outside of the bar She shared a cigarette with me while her brother played the guitar She asked me what does it mean, the Gaelic ink on your arm? Said it was one of my friend’s songs, do you want to drink on?”

3. One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head

From the Musical Chess, this hit by Murray Head made me want to visit Bangkok in the 1990s.

Whenever I’m in the city, I can’t stop singing it!

“I said, “do you speak-a my language?” He just smiled and gave me a vegemite sandwich And he said I come from a land down under Where beer does flow and men chunder”

4. Land Down Under by Men at Work

When thinking about travel music, this song is at the top for and Australian theme.

Men at work reference the Hippy Trail, muscles in Brussels and a den in Bombay.

All while bonding with people from the Land Down Under. Men at work are from Melbourne , Australia

“Bangkok, Oriental setting And the city don’t know that the city is getting The creme de la creme of the chess world In a show with everything but Yul Brynner”

5. Havana by Camila Cabello

This song takes me to Havana. The groove makes me feel that I am at a lounge in Cuba and I love it.

Even if Camila Cabello is taken to East Atlanta, her heart is always in Havana. Just like so many people feel when they visit Havana too!

Havana, ooh na-na Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh na-na He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na Oh, but my heart is in Havana My heart is in Havana Havana, ooh na-na

6.  Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

This song makes me want to go to the American South.

My favorite lyric is when they mention the recording studio Muscle Shoals.

“Now Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers And they’ve been known to pick a song or two (yes they do) Lord they get me off so much They pick me up when I’m feeling blue, now how bout you?”

After watching the documentary about Muscle Shoals, I now understand what that lyric is all about.

It was the place for rock musicians to record in the 1960s. Rent Muscle Shoals on Amazon

Kathy Bovair  says “ Dave will have my back on this one “SWEET HOME ALABAMA” is the best travel song and an old high school classic from our past” 

7. I’ve Been Everywhere Man by Johnny Cash

Carmen Davis-Harcum said.  “It’s My favourite travel song.” And we agree. I’ve been everywhere is the ultimate travel song!

If you want to add a song to your travel playlist that captures what it’s like to travel around.

I always envisioned this song being about Johnny Cash writing about his life on the road as a traveling musician.

“I’ve been everywhere, man I’ve been everywhere, man Crossed the deserts bare, man I’ve breatherd the mountain air, man Travel, I’ve had my share, man I’ve been everywhere”

He may not have been everywhere int he world, but he has definitely crossed all of the United States and Canada.

I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash does the trick.

 8. Route 66 by Nat King Cole

Route 66 certainly captures the heyday of America’s famous highway running across the country.

It makes me think of simpler (and tougher) times of people hitting the open road with nothing but dreams in their heads.

This song makes me want to get in the car and drive.

“Well if you ever plan to motor west Just take my way it’s the highway that’s the best Get your kicks on Route 66 Well it winds from Chicago to L.A. More than 2000 miles all the way Get your kicks on Route 66″

Trisha Miller  is inspired by Route 66, a trip I have dreamed of for a long time, and someday I will do the entire length in one long, leisurely road trip”

9. Desert Rose – Sting

This song is apparently about when Adam was banished from the garden of Eden.

But when I listen to it, I think of travel and it transports me straight to the Middle East.

“I dream of rain, I dream of gardens in the desert sand I wake in vain, I dream of love as time runs through my hand Sweet desert rose Each of her veils, a secret promise This desert flower No sweet perfume ever tortured me more than this…”

10. Where the Streets Have No Name by U2

The song is inspired by the streets of Ethiopia where there aren’t (or weren’t) any street names.

I remember cycling through Africa and we barely saw a road sign.

At the time, Ireland was still under a lot of civil unrest and Bono wrote about a place where class, religion and income are not indicitve of the street they live on.

“I want to feel sunlight on my face I see that dust cloud disappear without a trace I wanna take shelter from the poison rain Where the streets have no name.”

11. Sympathy For The Devil by The Rolling Stones

Daniel Stein Says “ Sympathy For the Devil makes you want to drive. Who wouldn’t include this in their best travel songs playlist?”

This travel song had the most votes in our survey.

So it had to be on our playlist even though it isn’t really about travel. It does talk about historical events around the world though. 

“I stuck around St. Petersburg When I saw it was a time for a change Killed the czar and his ministers Anastasia screamed in vain” 

12. On the Road Again by Willy Nelson

Diane Grady .” We were camping year’s ago on Vancouver Island and a big motorhome pulled out playing”On the Road Again” through the loudspeakers. It was hilarious .

But you know what, On the Road Again is one of the most popular songs played when hitting the road.

The words alone. I’m on the road again!

13. I Left My Heart In San Francisco by Tony Bennet

Suggested by Katherine Hill who said, “I left my Heart in San Francisco, of course! This song is the epitome of San Francisco.

Travel Songs don’t have to be about going everywhere. They can be about one place and this is the ultimate love story dedicated to San Francisco.

Add it to your playlist on Amazon

14. Montego Bay by Amazulu

Whenever we go to Jamaica we sing this song. It is perfect for travel.

It not only captures the spirit and energy of Jamaica, it explains a lot about the island.

They drive on the island, they drink rum from a silver tray and greet you like a brother would.

“Vernon’ll meet me when the BOAC lands Keys to th M. G. will be in his hands Adjust to the driving ‘n’ I’m on my way It’s all on the right side in Montego Bay

BOAC is a British airplane and I love how they say, “it’s all on the right side, because when you are in Jamaica, you drive British style.

15. Midnight Train To Georgia by Gladys Knight and the Pips

Lauren Mcleod  made this addition to our playlist.

She says “ Even though it’s about heading home instead of away, it sure gets me groovin’ along like I want to leave.”

“The world is his, his and ‘ers alone Oh he’s leavin’ On that midnight train to Georgia (leavin’ on the midnight train) Said he’s goin’ back to find (goin’ back to find) Oh a simpler place in time”

You can also download on Amazon

16. Roam by the B52s

Genelle Gregorio “ Roam “ by the B-52s is a fantastic song for slideshows of your travels and to get you all pumped up about traveling and seeing the world.

“Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without wings, without wheels Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without anything but the love we feel”

In our hearts, aren’t we all roamers at heart?

17. Leaving on a Jet Plane by Chantal Kreviazuk

Jenny Leach “ We love this track when we are traveling . Leaving on a Jet Plane just screams travel song! Famous recordings are from Peter Paul and Mary, and John Denver.

“All my bags are packed I’m ready to go I’m standin’ here outside your door I hate to wake you up to say goodbye”

While the song is more about leaving for work (most likely the life of a rock n roll band, it still makes us think about traveling.

This song has been re-done a lot over the years, our favorite version is from the movie Armageddon  by Chantal Kreviazuk.

18. Kokomo by The Beach Boys

Keith Jenkins of Velvet Escape chose Kokomo. This makes me think of the beach for sure.

What we love about Kokomo is that it is a made up place by the Beach Boys, but it sure makes you want to go there. And it captures the spirit of the islands.

19. Graceland by Paul Simon

Sheri Anderson Wallace  said. “ I love that travel song because it captures all the pieces of a road trip. What could be more of a travel song than a song about road tripping?

We say, it also inspired us to get ourselves to Graceland and see Elvis’ home in Memphis Tennessee.

We’ll never forget visiting Kenya and seeing photographs of Paul Simon at a lodge we stayed at in the Masai Mara. He stayed here with Carry Fisher and it was this place that inspired his music for the album Graceland. I think that was one of the coolest things to see that we stayed at the same lodge.

2 0. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf

Bonnie Paridaen says “ By Steppenwolf Baby!”  Need we say more?

“Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Lookin’ for adventure And whatever comes our way Yeah Darlin’ go make it happen Take the world in a love embrace Fire all of your guns at once And explode into space.”

Born to Be Wild is all about taking a motorcycle trip across the country. The movie isn’t bad either.

21. New York State of Mind by Billie Joel

Merav Benaia  told us that it’s the travel song that makes me want to pack my bag and hop on a flight. (event though it’s about taking the bus)

Some folks like to get away Take a holiday from the neighborhood Hop a flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood But I’m takin’ a Greyhound on the Hudson River line I’m in a New York state of mind

I love New York and this is a love song dedicated to the beautiful State. 

Get New York State of Mind on Amazon

22. Sailing, Christopher Cross

Stephanie Broschart stated. “The lyrics from Sailing totally make for a great travel song.”

It’s not far to never-never land, no reason to pretend And if the wind is right you can find the joy of innocence again Oh, the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see. Believe me.

23. Proud Mary – Tina Turner

Whenever we’re in New Orleans , this is the song that comes to mind. It has amazing energy and gets you in the mood to hop on a riverboat and explore!

Big wheel keep on turnin’ Proud Mary keep on burnin’ Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river

It wasn’t until we took a riverboat tour in New Orleans that we even understood what big wheel keeps on turnin’ meant. It’s the big wheel that propels these riverboats. Cool eh?

24. American Woman by The Guess Who

Lorna Hazen-Francavilla said.  “ It is one of those “roll down the windows and makes crank the tunes kind of songs!”

Even though it is a song about dissing America, a lot of people look at it as a tribute to America. Regardless, it is a song that has a lot of energy.

Check it out on Amazon .

25. Man in the Mirror by Micheal Jackson

Claire Algarme “ I like the beat and the message of the song. It also reminds me to be open to everything I see & meet in my travels and how to be a better person at the end of my journeys.

We love the words of The Man in the Mirror .

Travel creates compassion. It brings people together and it is the best education.

This song empowers that feeling. Through travel we have often been compelled to make a difference.

If you want to make the world a better place Take a look at yourself, and then make a change

26. Kathmandu

When we were in Kathmandu before climbing to Everest Base Camp in Nepal.

This song captures the wanderlust of travel.

“I figure baby I’ve got nothing to lose, I’m tired of being blue, That’s why I’m going to Kathmandu Up to the mountains where I’m going to.”

It’s such a fun song.

Check it out on Amazon

27. London Calling by the Clash

Okay, so it might be an anti travel song, but if you just listen to the chorus, London is calling!

so even though the lyrics are pretty angry and depressing, I always sing it when I go to London.

“The ice age is coming, the sun’s zooming in Meltdown expected, the wheat is growing thin Engines stop running, but I have no fear ‘Cause London is drowning I live by the river”

28. Coming to America by Neil Diamond

I said this in our best road trip songs post, and I’ll say it again, I loved listening to this song while cycling down the continent of Africa .

Coming to America captures the hope and freedom of what was America.

Far We’ve been traveling far Without a home But not without a star Free Only want to be free We huddle close Hang on to a dream

The world looked America for so much when he sang this. Hopefully, it will get it’s welcoming status back again in our life.

But in the meantime, we love listening to Neil Diamond, he is the coolest cat in town.

29. Rambling Man by The Allman Brothers

Voted by – Rasheed Hooda – It’s a classic

“I’m on my way to New Orleans this mornin’ I’m leavin’ out of Nashville, Tennessee They’re always having a good time down on the bayou Lord, them Delta women think the world of me”

30. Laredo by Band of Horses

Catherine Reyes   says.”It has been my favourite of song to inspire travel for the past three months. It’s pretty recent and has that good on the road again feel.

“Gonna take a trip to Laredo Gonna take a dip in the lake Oh, I’m at a crossroads with myself I don’t got no one else”

31. Istanbul not Constantinople by They Might Be Giants

I had never heard this song before watching the Umbrella Academy on Netflix. When I heard it, it was my new favourite travel song.

We’ve been to Istanbul many times and we did know that it was once called Constantinople.

Istanbul was Constantinople Now it’s Istanbul, not Constantinople Been a long time gone, Constantinople Now it’s Turkish delight on a moonlit night

So now whenever we go back, you know we are going to be singing this song. It is so much fun.

Seriously, give it a listen!

And add it to your playlist through Amazon $1.29

32. Carolina on my Mind by James Taylor

I just love James Taylor’s calm and soothing voice. And that is exactly what travel is meant to do – calm and sooth.

A lot of can’t travel right now, but we do go to places in our mind, and this captures that daydreaming part of our lives where we imagine being somewhere else.

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

33. California Dreaming – Mamas and the Papas

I think we all feel this way about California on a winter’s day:

I’d be safe and warm, If I was in L.A. California Dreaming, On such a winter’s day?

And who doesn’t love the vocal harmonies of the Mamas and the Papas?

Start dreaming and get it now.

33. Bali Eyes – Porno for Pyros

When traveling through South East Asia, we discovered this song and became huge fans of the unplugged version by Porno for Pyros.

Ate a mushroom turned into Bali Didn’t look it just jumped down my throat I was starting to die until I Took a trip to Bali Their eyes are god In a glass full of jelly Bali in my eyes

Once we reached Bali, we couldn’t stop playing this one. I think you’ll like it!

34. Sand in My Shoes – Dido

This song captures how amazing travel can be, but how much of a let down it is when you get home.

“Two weeks away feels like the whole world should have changed, But I’m home now, and things still look the same I think I’ll leave it ’til tomorrow to unpack, Try to forget for one night that I’m back in my flat On the road where the cars never stop going through the night, To a life where I can’t watch the sun set”

35. New York by Alicia Keys

There are so many songs about New York City, we could have created a travel song playlist all about New York alone! (Hey that’s a great idea! )

But we could only choose one and while Frank Sinatra, Beastie Boys, and even New York New York from Guys and Dolls springs to mind, I’m going with Alicia Keys beautiful song about New York.

In New York! Concrete jungle where dreams are made of There’s nothing you can’t do now you’re in New York! These streets will make you feel brand new Big lights will inspire you Now you’re in New York

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Best Travel Songs Playlist. I found a lot of songs I’d never heard of, some old classics and some fun ones too!

Save this list to Pinterest to share these songs about travel.

Do you have a favourite travel song? Share it with us and see if it makes the list!

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

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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25 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust”

Ah these are some great songs! Some old school, some new, it’s perfect! Its pretty much my karaoke list too. Thanks so much for sharing!

Africa by Toto is classic. Its my favourite one :))) Does anyone use a travel itinerary on the worldee? For inspiration?

Please add the Spanish song Ay Carmela to your playlist.

Haha of course Sweet Home Alabama when you are cruising through bama!

Admiring the time and effort you put into your blog and detailed information you offer. This is the first time i am reading your post and admire that you posted article which gives users lot of information regarding particular topic thanks for this share.

This list is as bad as you could do without trying to be the worst… One Jason Mraz is bad enough, but two? And no Canned Heat “Going Up The Country”.

Great suggestion with – going up the Country.

Thank You for this amazing list, A Playlist for Best English, Hindi and Bengali songs for travel is a very tough work and you have done a great work.

Great list, I’m glad I contributed to the list 😀 I like Midnight train to Georgia. I don’t know bunch of the song, but now I need to have this playlist, I want to hear what others suggested! .-= Dina´s last blog ..Top 8 Animal Street Signs from Australia and New Zealand =-.

We are putting a playlist together on playlist.com when we have the final list compiled we will be putting up the playlist as well so everyone can hear. We didn’t know a few of the songs either, they are awesome. Can’t wait until monday when the new post goes out.

That’s cool! Looking forward to having the playlist 🙂

Hey, hows about something a BIT less cheesy though guys n gals. I give you M.Ward’s Paul’s Song, beautifully mournful and full of bittersweet lonesomeness.

‘How does it feel to be travelling, to live your life on the train oand the aeroplane. Well I ain’t gonna lie to you. Well every town is just the same, when you’ve left your heart in the Portland rain.’ Check it out! .-= Jools Stone´s last blog .. Edinburgh TweetUp Hatches =-.

Thanks Jools, Put it on our facebook fan page and we can include it in our list. Sounds like beautiful lyrics, I would love to include it:)

Whoever submitted “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver must be unaware that he perished in an experimental aircraft.

Haha, I forgot about that. Very ironic.

Great idea guys! I found myself spending too much time on YouTube 😉 and realised I have so many favourite travel songs I can hardly choose. I chose New York State of Mind; I think it is obvious it’s been a while since I last visited my one and only NYC. .-= Merav | AllWays Rental´s last blog ..Take the Tranz Alpine Train and Dream a Little =-.

Great list!! we have a theme song not so much a travel song. What do you think?? 🙂 http://gotpassport.org/2010/01/08/our-gotpassport-family-theme-song/ .-= GotPassport´s last blog .. That’s Right We’re Bad We’re Locals OK- Sort Of! =-.

#40 is my favourite on the list… I remember listening to this song watching the sun going down on Caye Caulker in Belize… amazing! .-= Brendan van Son´s last blog ..Fun Fotography on the Salt Flats =-.

Such an awesome list!!! .-= Andi´s last blog ..Love- Head Over Heels For The Amalfi Coast =-.

I’d love to make a second vote for Weather with You — such a great suggestion by Career Break HQ! (Especially because you two are such fundamentally happy people, and it’s a fundamentally happy song. :)) .-= Melanie@TravelsWithTwo´s last blog ..Strolling Through Hacienda Baru =-.

Thanks Melanie. We will be opening votes on the 9th, looks like it might be a winner already:)

My vote is for the Grateful Dead, the most comforting travel music I can think of. Trucking up to Buffalo is the best album for travel. .-= Shawn´s last blog ..FeedBurner’s Delusional Subscription Statistics =-.

Thanks Shawn. I don’t know if you want to enter your song. You still have a week. We need a specific song, sorry not an album and we have to have it on our facebook page to be included in the final list. Sorry, but we have to follow the rules:)

Excellent list of songs, and such a fun contest! I love that people who are submitting their favorites aren’t just pulling them out of thin air – the songs have real meaning to them…..I’ve been enjoying reading all the entries on your Facebook Page. .-= Trisha´s last blog .. Increase Your Travel Writing Exposure and Readership with Syndication =-.

Thanks Trisha, I have to say we are blown away with the song choices. They are so clever, heartfelt and interesting. It puts my post to shame about favorite travel songs. People are coming up with better choices than I ever could have thought of. It really is the ultimate playlist!

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The 125+ Popular Songs About Traveling

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

Willie Nelson On the Road Again

Leaving on a Jet Plane

On the Road Again

Born to Run

Take Me Home Country Roads

The Long and Winding Road

We gotta get out of this place - animals.

Take It Easy

Hit the Road Jack

Homeward Bound

Goodby yellow brick road.

Magic Carpet Ride

Turn the Page

Immigrant Song

Last Train to Clarksville

King of the road roger miller.

Johnny Cash Highwayman

Midnight Train to Georgia

On the road again - canned heat.

Going Up the Country

Smoke on the Water

Fly Me to the Moon

Night Moves

Highway to Hell

Ventura Highway

No Particular Place To Go

Listen to the Music

Come Fly With Me

• Places/Travel

Songs for people who listen to the lyrics.

57 Hit Songs About Traveling (2023 with Videos)

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Born To Be Wild by Steppenwolf

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

2. A Thousand Miles by Vanessa Carlton

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

3. Leaving On A Jetplane by Chantal Kreviazuk

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

4. Paris by The Chainsmokers

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

5. Adventure Of A Lifetime by Coldplay

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

6. Road Trippin’ by Red Hot Chili Peppers

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

7. Sleep On The Floor by The Lumineers

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

8. Watermelon Sugar by Harry Styles

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

9. Kokomo by The Beach Boys

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

10. Location Unknown by HONNE featuring BEKA

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

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

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

12. seoul by RM of BTS

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

13. Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

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

14. Pure Shores by All Saints

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

15. Around The World by Daft Punk

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

16. Have Love, Will Travel by The Sonics

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

17. The Passenger by Iggy Pop

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

18. Roam by The B-52’s

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

19. Traveling by Utada Hikaru

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

20. Beautiful Day by U2

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

21. Sailing by Christopher Cross

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

22. On Top Of The World by Imagine Dragons

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

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

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

24. Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz

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

25. Wanderlust by The Weeknd

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

26. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

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

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

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

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

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

29. Maps by Yeah Yeah Yeahs

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

30. Maps by Maroon 5

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

31. Runaway by The Corrs

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

32. Goodnight, Travel Well by The Killers

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

33. Why Georgia by John Mayer

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

34. Ready To Run by One Direction

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

35. One For The Road by Arctic Monkeys

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

36. Run Away With Me by Carly Rae Jepsen

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

37. Shut Up And Drive by Rihanna

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

38. California Gurls by Katy Perry

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

39. Come Away With Me by Norah Jones

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

40. Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty

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

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

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

42. Cups by Anna Kendrick

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

43. Fearless by Taylor Swift

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

44. Africa by Toto

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

45. Malibu by Miley Cyrus

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

46. Passenger Seat by Stephen Speaks

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

47. On The Road Again by Willie Nelson

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

Related Article: Songs About Starting Over

48. Big Sur by Alanis Morissette

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

49. Malibu Nights by LANY

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

50. Home by Phillip Phillips

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

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

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

52. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

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

53. I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

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

54. Road To Nowhere by Talking Heads

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

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

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

Related Article: Great Songs About Searching

56. Wherever You Will Go by The Calling

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

57. Somewhere Only We Know by Keane

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

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

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

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33 Best Songs About Traveling & Having Adventures

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Looking for songs about traveling to fuel your next journey?

In addition to recommendations for songs about going on an adventure and exploring , we’re sharing with you the best collection of songs to add to your playlist for a long drive home or during your next vacation .

Table of Contents

The Benefits of Listening to Music While Traveling

Music makes traveling better.

Here are some of the major benefits you can get from listening to your favorite music while traveling:

• It soothes and relaxes you. You might encounter stressful situations while traveling (e.g., being stuck in heavy traffic , long layovers, or canceled flights), but listening to music can reduce your stress levels and help you cope with the situation.
• It helps you sleep better. Many people find it difficult to sleep well when they’re away from home. Putting on your favorite music before bed when sleeping in a new place can help prevent sleepless nights while you’re on a trip.
• It allows you to connect with people. If you’re on a road trip with friends, one of the best shared experiences is listening to your group’s favorite songs while traveling on the open road. This is a great opportunity to create wonderful memories with good company.

What’s in This Collection?

Traveling can be done alone, or it can be done with someone you care about, such as your friends, family, or someone special as part of your relationship goals .

For this collection, we’ve rounded up songs about:

• Going on a trip
• Adventures on the road
• Driving home
• Traveling away from home
• Finding love while traveling
• Traveling in different types of vehicles
• Traveling to begin a new chapter in life

Traveling can also be a metaphor for other experiences in life—love, our struggles in overcoming adversity (e.g., addiction, heartbreak, poverty), enlightenment, temporary or permanent escapes, etc. We’ve also included songs on these topics.

Check out these tracks to add to your travel playlist.

Presenting: Songs About Traveling and Having Adventures

1. anywhere, passenger.

“ If you get up on 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. ”

This is a love song and a song about traveling. It tells of one’s devotion to the person they love, which makes them willing to travel anywhere just to be with that person.

2. Leaving on a Jet Plane, 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. ”

This classic song is about having to take your leave. Traveling can sometimes bring heartbreak when we have to say goodbye to the people we love.

The song is also a wistful one, as the person promises to return even though things are uncertain.

However, we must remember that traveling can often change who we are and things are never the same once we return.

3. Sleep on the Floor, The Lumineers

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

Sometimes the place where we are prevents us from reaching our full potential.

It takes a lot of courage to leave, especially if we’ve been in our comfort zone for so long. [ Check out these Steps for Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone .]

4. The Chinatown Bus, Bishop Allen

“ I, I am a passenger tonight. I watch the world from inside. ”

Commuting late at night can be an adventure, too.

In this track, we see the world through the eyes of someone who rides a bus one night from Chinatown. During his trip, he recalls some of the places he’s been before and feels like an outsider watching the goings-on around him.

5. Ghost Towns, Radical Face

“ I’ve got no need for open roads. ’Cause all I own fits on my back. I see the world from rusted trains. And always know I won’t be back. ”

This song is about someone who’s left everything he knows to travel from place to place, with no intention of settling down. Perhaps this person is running from his past or he’s trying to find himself in his wanderings.

6. The Motorcycle Song, Arlo Guthrie

“ I don’t want a pickle, just want to ride on my motorcycle. And I don’t want a tickle ’cause I’d rather ride on my motorcycle. And I don’t want to die. I just want to ride on my motorcycle. ”

This song is a tribute to the motorcycle—to the freedom and joy it brings to the one singing the song.

What’s your favorite mode of transportation when traveling?

7. Katmandu, Bob Seger

“ I think I’m going to Katmandu. I think it’s really where I’m going to. If I ever get outta here, that’s what I’m gonna do. ”

If you want a temporary break from life, traveling can be your escape.

This song is about traveling to a place where no one can bother you so you can regroup and decompress. After you’ve recharged, you’ll be ready to take on new challenges.

8. Hard Travelin’, Woody Guthrie

“ I’ve been ridin’ them fast rattlers, I thought you knowed. I’ve been ridin’ them flat wheelers way down the road. I’ve been ridin’ them blind passengers, dead-enders, kickin’ up cinders. I’ve been havin’ some hard travelin’, lord. ”

This song is quite different from the other tracks about vacations and the call of the open road. Instead, it is a song describing the challenges of being on the road as a drifter.

In this song, a man travels on trains, working odd jobs in different towns and having a brush with authorities. He’s doing it to find the woman of his dreams.

9. I’ve Been Everywhere, Johnny Cash

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

Many people include traveling the world in their bucket list . This song is about someone who has traveled all over the world and is now reminiscing about the places and experiences that were most memorable to him.

10. Roam, B-52

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

Still hesitant to take that trip? This song might help convince you to finally board a flight and see new places.

It emboldens you to take on new experiences and encourages you to embrace freedom, growth, and learning. This is an open invitation to see the world and try everything it has to offer.

11. I Woke Up in a Car, Something Corporate

“ I woke up in New York City, from my sleep behind the wheel. Caught a train to Poughkeepsie and time stood still. ”

Traveling is a chance to meet new people and temporarily escape the routine of home life. In this song, a person embraces a life of travel, seeking new adventures and experiences and deciding if this is how they want to live for the rest of their life.

12. Drivin’ My Life Away, Eddie Rabbitt

“ Well, the midnight headlights blind you on a rainy night. Steep grade up ahead, slow me down, make no time. But I got to keep rollin’. Those windshield wipers slappin’ out a tempo, keeping perfect rhythm with the song on the radio. But I got to keep rollin’. Ohh, I’m drivin’ my life away, lookin’ for a better way for me. Ohh, I’m drivin’ my life away, lookin’ for a sunny day. ”

The main inspiration of this song is the life of roadies. Constantly going on tour provides its own sense of adventure.

However, by being constantly away from home, roadies often miss out on major milestones in the lives of their families and loved ones.

13. Last Train to Clarksville, The Monkees

“ Take the last train to Clarksville and I’ll meet you at the station. You can be here by 4:30 ’cause I’ve made your reservation. ”

This 1966 single is about traveling to see someone you love. In it, a man talks to a loved one on the phone, arranging to meet at the Clarksville train station.

Although it is not directly stated, the man could be a draftee during the Vietnam war, especially considering that there is a line in the song that goes, “ And I don’t know if I’m ever coming home. ”

14. The Getaway, Hilary Duff

“ Put the pedal down, headin’ out of town. Gotta make a getaway. The traffic’s in my brain, drivin’ me insane. This is more than I can take. You tell me you love me first, then throw your heart into reverse. I’ve gotta get away. ”

This song compares driving to a romantic relationship. A girl gets confused by a guy’s non-commitment and feels like she needs to distance herself to truly see where their relationship is headed.

She compares what she must do in the confusing relationship to navigating through a busy road so she can get somewhere quieter.

15. Come Sail Away, Styx

“ I’m sailing away. Set an open course for the virgin sea ’cause I’ve got to be free. Free to face the life that’s ahead of me. ”

This song is about getting away and charting an unknown course. It is about finding and living one’s destiny.

This is a song about self-acceptance and being free to fully embrace your potential.

16. Fast Car, Tracy Chapman

“ So I remember when we were driving, driving in your car. Speed so fast it felt like I was drunk. City lights lay out before us and your arm felt nice wrapped ‘round my shoulder. And I had a feeling that I belonged. I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone. ”

This song was released in 1988 and tells of the hardships of a working girl trying to make life better for her and the ones she loves. The fast car in this song symbolizes the opportunity to make her dreams come true.

However, the cycles of abuse, alcoholism, and hopelessness have a very strong pull on some of the people she loves. She comes to accept the fact that she does not need to be a passenger in someone else’s car to realize her dreams.

17. The Best Way to Travel, The Moody Blues

“ We ride the waves. Distance is gone, will we find out? How life began, will we find out? Speeding through the universe. Thinking is the best way to travel. ”

This song presents an interesting perspective on traveling. In it, we are presented with the idea that the best way to travel around the world and even across the universe is through our thoughts.

18. Girl on a Train, Skizzy Mars

“ I met this pretty girl on a train. I fell in love even before I got her name. And I ain’t even know where she was going. But she broke my heart when her stop came. ”

In addition to presenting learning opportunities, traveling gives people the chance to meet the love of their life.

In this song, a guy falls in love with another passenger while riding on a train. Nothing comes of it, but the song shows the strange, wonderful, and extraordinary adventures we sometimes experience during our travels.

19. If I Had a Boat, Lyle Lovett

“ And if I had a boat, I’d go out on the ocean. And if I had a pony, I’d ride him on my boat. And we could all together go out on the ocean. I said me upon my pony on my boat. ”

We’ve already talked about a song that shows how our thoughts can serve as a vehicle so we can travel anywhere in the universe.

Here’s another song about the power of imagination that allows people to reach interesting destinations in equally interesting ways.

20. Watching Airplanes, Gary Allan

“ By now I know you’re 30,000 feet above me but a million miles away, a million miles away. By now I know I ought to act like you don’t love me. But I’m just sittin’ out here watching airplanes take off and fly. I’m just sittin’ out here watching airplanes take off and fly. Tryin’ to figure out which one you might be on and why you don’t love me anymore. ”

In this song, we listen to a guy who is watching planes fly above him and wondering which one has his ex in it. It’s a song about goodbyes and travels, telling of heartbreak and hope for a new and better chapter in this guy’s life.

21. Trains and Boats and Planes , Dionne Warwick

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

Boats, airplanes, and trains are all ways to take long journeys and adventures in exotic locales. However, in this song, these modes of transportation are only seen as the vehicles that took someone’s love away.

22. Traveling On, Kongos

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

In this song, listeners get to know someone who loves to travel—who maybe cannot resist traveling. They bid goodbye to the one they love as they prepare to set forth again to discover new places.

As a consolation, they promise to return home one day.

23. Fly Away With Me, Tom Walker

“ So come on, fly away with me to a place where we could be anyone we want to be. And we can bottle up our fears, brew a taste so sweet. Knock us off our feet or more. Burn our troubles, inhale them all. Paint our future on a fractured wall. So come on, fly away with me to a place where we can be anyone we want to be. ”

This song describes the experiences of someone who is homeless or lives most of their time on the streets.

It is an invitation to see the world from this person’s eyes as he tries to find purpose and regain his self-esteem when the rest of the world refuses to even glance at him.

24. Castle on the Hill, Ed Sheeran

“ I’m on my way, driving at 90 down those country lanes. Singing to Tiny Dancer and I miss the way you make me feel. And it’s real, when we watched the sunset over the castle on the hill. ”

This is a song about coming back to a place from your childhood. As you drive down familiar roads, the memories rush in and you find yourself remembering the bittersweet time of your youth.

25. Proud Mary, Creedence Clearwater Revival

“ Cleaned a lot of plates in Memphis. Pumped a lot of ‘pane down in New Orleans. But I never saw the good side of the city ‘til I hitched a ride on a riverboat queen. ”

This classic song is an ode to a time when the main means of transport on the Mississippi River was a riverboat. It is a metaphor for leaving behind one’s stressful existence and embracing a more peaceful existence, possibly aboard a riverboat.

26. Get Here, Oleta Adams

“ You can reach me by sailboat, climb a tree and swing rope to rope. Take a sled and slide down the slope into these arms of mine. You can jump on a speedy colt, cross the border in a blaze of hope. I don’t care how you get here, just get here if you can. ”

This song is about the urgent call of someone to have their beloved by their side. Oleta Adams lists several possible ways for her beloved to reach her. None of them should be impossible if her beloved is determined, right?

27. Fly Away from Here, Aerosmith

“ Take another breath and say another prayer. And then fly away from here. Anywhere, yeah, I don’t care. We just fly away from here. Our hopes and dreams are out there somewhere. Won’t let time pass us by. We’ll just fly, yeah. ”

We’ve mentioned previously that there are times when the place we are currently in holds us back from fully realizing our potential. Here’s another song that urges listeners to fly away so they can turn their dreams into reality.

28. Wherever I May Roam, Metallica

“ Rover, wanderer, nomad, vagabond. Call me what you will. Oh, but I’ll take my time anywhere. Free to speak my mind anywhere. And I’ll redefine anywhere. Anywhere I roam. Where I lay my head is home, yeah. ”

Why do many people prefer traveling over settling down in a place where they can build a home and form a family?

Perhaps, as the vagabond in this song says, home can be anywhere he lays down his head. Traveling gives them freedom to be themselves, and they prefer it more than settling down.

29. Ventura Highway, America

“ Ventura Highway in the sunshine, where the days are longer the nights are stronger than moonshine. You’re gonna go, I know. ’Cause the free wind is blowing through your hair and the days surround your daylight there. Seasons crying no despair. Alligator lizards in the air, in the air. ”

Here’s another song about giving in to the pull of the open road. It tells of moving on, leaving old places in search of new adventures and purpose in life.

30. The World at Large, Modest Mouse

“ The days get shorter and the nights get cold. I like the autumn but this place is getting old. I pack up my belongings and I head for the coast. It might not be a lot but I feel like I’m making the most. The days get longer and the nights smell green. I guess it’s not surprising but it’s spring and I should leave. ”

This next song is another one about living life to the fullest, completely embracing restlessness and wanderlust.

It is somewhat similar in theme to the song above, where a person wanders from place to place searching for something that gives them a sense of purpose.

31. Leaving Las Vegas, Sheryl 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. ”

Traveling is not only an opportunity for new adventures. It also gives people the chance to start over.

This song is about leaving one’s old life behind—most likely with its attendant mess, pain, and fear—and traveling to somewhere they can begin a new chapter with a clean slate.

32. On the Road Again, 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. Just can’t wait to get on the road again… ”

Need another song about people fully embracing a life of traveling? Try this classic from Willie Nelson.

In this song, we feel the excitement and wistfulness of traveling to different places in the company of good friends.

33. Orinoco Flow, Enya

“ From the north to the south, Ebudæ unto Khartoum. From the deep Sea of Clouds to the Island of the Moon. Carry me on the waves to the lands I’ve never been. Carry me on the waves to the lands I’ve never seen. We can sail, we can sail with the Orinoco flow. We can sail, we can sail. Sail away, sail away, sail away. ”

Released in 1988, this music allows listeners to transcend their current state of mind and float in relaxation. The song is about leaving old places behind to discover new, exciting environments that we’ve never heard of before.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully you’ve found some favorite songs about traveling to add to your playlist.

We are all often busy with life, but hopefully you get the opportunity to travel.

Even if it’s just an overnight trip out of town, traveling provides numerous benefits in terms of personal growth and expanding your horizons.

If you enjoyed this collection, here are more song collections on specific topics that you can check out:

• 13 Fun Songs About Going on Vacation
• 27 Best Songs About Going on an Adventure
• 17 Songs About Exploring and Having Adventures
• 21 Songs About Belonging to a Community and Coming Together
• 25 Songs About Home (Leaving and Coming Back)
• 21 Songs About Change and Starting a New Path in Life
• 13 Songs About Being Trapped with No Place to Go
• 15 Songs About Hope and Not Giving Up
• 52 Best Inspirational & Motivational Songs to Pump Up 2022

Jet Set Jams: The 13 Best Songs About Travel

by Gary Leff on December 26, 2023

That’s a very different exercise than the best songs for travel , this isn’t a ‘play list for the road’ it’s about borrowing someone else’s poetry to describe the travel experience. There’s no question that George Gershwin didn’t write Rhapsody in Blue to be about travel, but it’s equally clear that the 1924 composition has become inextricably linked with United Airlines.

What songs most evoke travel for you and are missing from my list? Which ones here are new to you?

The 13 best travel songs: Iggy Pop – The Passenger . This 1977 classic resulted from Iggy Pop travelling with David Bowie on tour in North America and Europe. Reportedly he didn’t have a license and the two drove around in Bowie’s car. Although it’s also said to be loosely based on a Jim Morrison poem.

The song features in the trailer for Up in the Air and in promos for Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown . There’s probably nothing more evocative of travel.

Paul Kelly – Sydney from a 727 . I first discovered Australian singer-songwriter Paul Kelly on a visit to my family Down Under over 25 years ago. I was instantly a fan. He’s been a member of the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame for nearly 20 years, though a virtual unknown in the States though he’s toured here.

Listening to Sydney from a 727 (which was also recorded as being from a 747), you can almost picture coming in for approach off the ocean (“I can see Bondi through my window way off to the right”) while capturing the spirit to take off in search of something (“And quit your job on the spot / Bought that ticket yeah spent the lot”). While no song quite captures the landing sequence quite like this one:

And the captain says belt up now we’ll be touching down in ten So I press my seat and I straighten up I fold my tray and I stash my cup As the red roofs are catching the first rays of the morning sun

The Animals – We Gotta Get Out of This Place . It’s an anthem that speaks to almost everyone, because everyone wants change. It was popular with soliders in Vietnam, with high school students who can’t wait to get out on their own, and with travelers who need to travel and feel cooped up when they’re at ‘home’.

The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) . As if taking a journey, taking a long arduous journey, to make your way to someone wasn’t enough someone once actually walked 1000 miles to convince his girlfriend to marry him . It turns out the journey wasn’t a real precondition of marriage and she was joking, but he did it anyway.

David Byrne – A Million Miles Away . No, this singer who once led the Talking Heads isn’t talking about what you have to go through to earn lifetime elite status .

But he is singing about the need to get away — travel far, far away — and become someone else, and be seen as someone else (“A toad is a prince in someone else’s eyes And you can’t tell a man by his clothes”).

Simon & Garfunkel – Homeward Bound . Is there any other song that’s truly the business traveler’s anthem? Waking up in the middle of the night, after being on the road for weeks at a time, and wondering what city you’re in you grab your phone because a weather app is on the home screen. And it tells you what city you’re in.

I’m sitting in the railway station. Got a ticket to my destination. On a tour of one-night stands my suitcase and guitar in hand. …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

Johnny Cash – I’ve Been Everywhere . Originally an Australian country song which named that country’s towns, it’s amazing the song has been made to work for Singapore, Belgium, Canada and any number of other places too.

With all the US cities Johnny Cash has been to — Waterloo, Kalamazoo, Kansas City, Sioux City, Cedar City, Dodge City, what a pity — I hope he’s saved up his miles and points because he could really use an international vacation.

George Gershwin – Rhapsody in Blue . Gershwin’s classic is more United Airlines now than anything else, at least to a traveler. The original composition from the tunnel connecting United’s B and C concourses at Chicago O’Hare is a riff on Rhapsody in Blue .

Phil Collins – Take Me Home . Maybe the song isn’t actually about going home. And maybe it’s a protest song against involuntary confinement in mental institutions. But for me it’s about longing for home, being on the road so long that you can hardly remember it but home is still your true North. (.. But, seriously.)

There’s a fire that’s been burning Right outside my door I can’t see but I feel it And it helps to keep me warm

…So take, take me home ‘Cause I don’t remember

Elvis Costello – Peace Love & Understanding . As I walk through this wicked world, searching for light in the darkness of insanity, I ask myself “Is all hope lost?”

It may not immediately seem like a travel song, but travel is about connecting with and engaging people and culture different from your own and yet building a common bond — of peace, love, and understanding. And it helps that the song was featured in Lost in Translation too.

Frank Sinatra – Come Fly With Me . Come fly with me let’s fly let’s fly away. It spent 5 weeks at number one, and just as I want to claim George Clooney as one of us for Up in the Air we’ve got to lay claim to Sinatra…

Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man . This 1961 classic shows its age, there’s no question it objectifies women, the song is about each city in the world in which he has a girl. But he clearly gets around .. to Mexico, Berlin, Hong Kong not to mention Hawaii and Alaska. But since its 1961, there’s no music video so it’s safe for work!

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Around The World (or maybe Aeroplane or Road Trippin’). When I first started thinking about this list it didn’t occur to me that The Red Hot Chili Peppers would be on it, but they have several songs about travel, from the plane to car but Around the World is the most meta and in some sense follows Elvis Costello with lines like “life is beautiful around the world” and indeed it is.

So what am I missing? What belongs on this list?

More From View from the Wing

About Gary Leff

Gary Leff is one of the foremost experts in the field of miles, points, and frequent business travel - a topic he has covered since 2002. Co-founder of frequent flyer community InsideFlyer.com, emcee of the Freddie Awards, and named one of the "World's Top Travel Experts" by Conde' Nast Traveler (2010-Present) Gary has been a guest on most major news media, profiled in several top print publications, and published broadly on the topic of consumer loyalty. More About Gary »

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Hey Gary..,,,

How about Willy Nelson’s,

On The Road Again…. !!

No love for Lindsey Buckingham and “Holiday Road” 🙂 ????

john Denver’s “Leaving on a jet plane” and also Peter/Paul/Mary’s cover of same

Considering how many delays there are. Stealers Wheel, Stuck in the Middle With You, seems appropriate.

…’Two Tickets to Paradise’… …’Go Your Own Way’…

Paul simon-america Al stewart time passages

How could a travel blog named “A View From the Wing” leave Jet Airliner by the Steve Miller Band off this song list. I mean is there any more of a metaphor for modern air travel the the line “gotta go through hell before you get to heaven”.

I mean com’ on man!

Tip of the iceberg it seems. SO… many obvious songs are missed in this blog post it should have never been attempted with the headline used. More like “13 favorite songs I like”. John Denver, Steve Miller have many songs about traveling, not just Jet Airliner and Leaving on a Jetplane.

You missed a few. Chuck Berry’s promised Land, grateful dead staple as well as Truckin.’

I usually sing the John Denver penned, Peter, Paul and Mary sung version of ‘Leaving on a Jet Plane’ before long trips.

Joe Cocker The Letter

OMG, how could you leave off Gladys Knight and the Pips singing “Midnight Train to Georgia” or, maybe a little less about travel, Otis Redding singing “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay.”

The City of New Orleans by Arlo Guthrie

Flying Home by Chris DeBurgh – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tE5VdDse5jQ

Also agree with Promised Land, although I’m partial to Elvis’s version

Definitely the B-52s classic from 1989 Roam Great video

You Belong To Me – Duprees “See the pyramids along the Nile . . .”

I have always liked Ramblin’ Man by The Allman Brothers Band.

You missed the #1 song on this list- back in the USSR! 1) Actually uses jet engines in the song, 2) Features BOAC prominently in the lyrics, and 3) It’s the Beatles.

Kinda narrow use but I love “Katmandu” by Bob Seger.

Graham Nash wrote “Just a Song Before I Go” in an airport leaving Hawaii about flying the “Friendly Skies “

I have two additions: Deep Purple’s “Highway Star”, and Bob Seger’s “Turn the Page”: “On a long and lonesome highway East of Omaha You can listen to the engine Moaning out his one-note song You can think about the woman Or the girl you knew the night before…”

Sailing—of course

Take your pick of Jimmy Buffett’s songs. Maybe “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes” would be on top. “Reading departure signs in some big airport reminds me of the places I’ve been. Visions of good times that brought so much pleasure, makes me want to go back again.”

Agree with Leaving on a Jet Plane

Also Changes Latitudes and Longitudes Reading departure signs in some big airport reminds me of the places I’ve been Visions of good times that brought so much pleasure makes me want to go back again If it suddenly ended tomorrow I could somehow adjust to the fall Good times and riches and son-of-a-bitches I’ve seen more than I can recall These changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes Nothing remains quite the same

Crosby, Stills & Nash – Just A Song Before I Go.

Loudon Wainwright III song “Rode Ode”

https://www.google.com/search?q=loudon+wainwrightt+III+on+the+road&rlz=1C1VDKB_enUS1002US1002&oq=loudon+wainwrightt+III+on+the+road&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIJCAEQIRgKGKABMgkIAhAhGAoYoAEyCQgDECEYChirAjIJCAQQIRgKGKsCMgkIBRAhGAoYqwLSAQoxNjg5MmowajE1qAIAsAIA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:26519f61,vid:e1DAPxCw8Dw,st:0

Albert Hammond – It Never Rains In Southern California (“Get aboard a westbound 747…”)

The Beatles Ticket to Ride.

I’m flying with Arlo Guthrie:

Comin’ into Los Angeles, Bringin’ in a coupla keys. Don’t touch my bags if you please, mister customs man

Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz.

Caro Emerald: Stuck

Holidays in the Sun – Sex Pistols Safe European Home – The Clash Holiday in Cambodia – Dead Kennedys

Time Passages Al Stewart

First verse “ It was late in December, the sky turned to snow All round the day was going down slow Night like a river beginning to flow I felt the beat of my mind go Drifting into time passages Years go falling in the fading light Time passages Buy me a ticket on the last train home tonight”

Also agree “Rhapsody in Blue.” United killed it with that ad campaign.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LeZOqp2g1k Album Jefferson Airplane takes off Song: Blues from an Airplane

Holiday Road by Lindsey Buckingham

Vacation by the Gogos

Bob Seger’s “Turn the Page” is the quintessential travel related road warrior song. It was coping and commiseration medicine during the endless weeks, months, and years of business travel

Willie Nelson: Bloody Mary Mooring Stebe Miller Band: Jetr airliner:

Lynryd Skynyrd call me ghe breeze.

ABBA “Happy Hawaii”

Bob Seger… “Roll Me Away”.

“Arriving Somewhere, But Not Here”, Porcupine Tree

For Spanish speakers, ‘Vuela Vuela’ by Magneto (a cover of french singer Desireless ‘Voyage Voyage’).

Agree with “Leavin’ on a Jet Plane”. I also like “Free Bird” and “Roll Me Away”.

One I’m surprised you missed given your travel patterns: “Have You Ever Seen Dallas from a DC-9 at Night” by Jimmy Dale Gilmore.

Dierks Bentley ‘Drunk on a plane’ seems like another good option…

Yeah, I’m a jet-age baby, having started flying in the swingin’ 60’s….

Leaving on a Jet Plane

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

[Chorus] 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 leaving on a jet plane Don’t know when I’ll be back again Oh babe, I hate to go

[Verse 2] There’s so many times I’ve let you down So many times I’ve played around I tell you now, they don’t mean a thing Every place I go, I’ll think of you Every song I sing, I’ll sing for you When I come back, I’ll bring your wedding ring

“Jet Airliner”

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

Oh, Oh big ol’ jet airliner Don’t carry me too far away Oh, Oh big ol’ jet airliner Cause it’s here that I’ve got to stay

Goodbye to all my friends at home Goodbye to people I’ve trusted I’ve got to go out and make my way I might get rich you know I might get busted But my heart keeps calling me backwards As I get on the 707 Ridin’ high I got tears in my eyes You know you got to go through hell Before you get to heaven

Big ol’ jet airliner Don’t carry me too far away Oh, Oh big ol’ jet airliner Cause it’s here that I’ve got to stay

Touchin’ down in New England town Feel the heat comin’ down I’ve got to keep on keepin’ on You know the big wheel keeps on spinnin’ around And I’m goin’ with some hesitation You know that I can surely see That I don’t want to get caught up in any of that Funky shit goin’ down in the city

Oh, Oh big ol’ jet airliner Don’t carry me too far away Oh, Oh big ol’ jet airliner Cause it’s here that I’ve got to stay Yeah, yeah yeah, yeah

Oh, Oh big ol’ jet airliner Carry me to my home Oh, Oh big ol’ jet airliner Cause it’s there that I belong

For Amtrak people: (I suppose the quirky and adventuresoe Jet Set is not adverse to train travel, for a fully rounded travel experience. And, yes, I’ve traveled everything from Acela First Class and European Fast Train to African Coach and South Asian Coach. As Peter Sarstedt sang, And when the snow falls you’re found in St. Moritz With the others of the jet set)

“Last Train to London” is a single by Electric Light Orchestra

It was 9:29 9:29, back street, big city The sun was going down There was music all around It felt so right

[Verse 2] It was one of those nights One of those nights when you feel the world stop turning You were standing there There was music in the air I should’ve been away But I knew I had to stay

[Chorus] Last train to London, just heading out Last train to London, just leaving town But I really want tonight to last forever I really wanna be with you Let the music play on down the line tonight

[Verse 3] It was one of those nights One of those nights when you feel a fire is burning Everybody was there Everybody to share It was so right

Last Train to Clarksville The Monkees

Take the last train to Clarksville And I’ll meet you at the station You can be here by four thirty ‘Cause I’ve made your reservation Don’t be slow Oh, no, no, no Oh, no, no, no

[Verse 2] ‘Cause I’m leaving in the morning And I must see you again We’ll have one more night together (Train) ‘Til the morning brings my train and I must go Oh, no, no, no Oh, no, no, no And I don’t know if I’m ever coming home

[Verse 3] Take the last train to Clarksville (Train) I’ll be waiting at the station We’ll have time for coffee-flavored kisses (Train) And a bit of conversation, oh Oh, no, no, no Oh, no, no, no

White Room Cream

In the white room with black curtains near the station Black roof country, no gold pavements, tired starlings Silver horses ran down moonbeams in your dark eyes Dawnlight smiles on you leaving, my contentment

I’ll wait in this place where the sun never shines Wait in this place where the shadows run from themselves

You said no strings could secure you at the station Platform ticket, restless diesels, goodbye windows I walked into such a sad time at the station As I walked out, felt my own need just beginning

I’ll wait in the queue when the trains come back Lie with you where the shadows run from themselves

At the party, she was kindness in the hard crowd Consolation for the old wound now forgotten Yellow tigers crouched in jungles in her dark eyes She’s just dressing, goodbye windows, tired starlings

I’ll sleep in this place with the lonely crowd Lie in the dark where the shadows run from themselves

Convoy C.W McCall

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Co-founder of frequent flyer community InsideFlyer.com, emcee of the Freddie Awards, and named one of the "World's Top Travel Experts" by Conde' Nast Traveler (2010-Present) Gary has been a guest on most major news media, profiled in several top print publications, and published broadly on the topic of consumer loyalty. More About Gary »