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When you Still Want to Hold a Real Book: Tips for Traveling with Books

Last updated: March 5, 2018 - Written by Jessica Norah 24 Comments

Do you like to travel with books? Ever thought that if you packed every book you wanted to take along, your books would need their own suitcase? Welcome, you are not alone my fellow bibliophiles. I love traveling with books and this article provides tips on how to travel with books (yes, actual physical books!) while still packing light.

In the 1700’s, young men and women embarking on a Grand Tour throughout Europe may have traveled with a trunk full of books to aid in their search for enlightenment and culture. Times have changed and traveling light is key to reducing hassles while traveling. Not to mention avoiding pricey airline baggage fees. Books are deadweight in your bag, they aren’t collapsible, foldable, and don’t serve a million purposes.

So what do you do? Friends have suggested Kindles, Nooks, and other e-book readers. I could read books on my IPad, laptop, or the tiny screen of my smartphone. Maybe I could just go a few weeks without reading a book?

But none of these options appeal to me. I have tried downloading and reading books on the devices I already own and don’t enjoy the experience, and I refuse to buy another electronic device to tote around just to read books. I can go about a week without reading a book, but more that is difficult for me. I love to read a good book on long train and plane rides, while taking a relaxing bath, and each evening before going to sleep.

But if you are like me, you love the feel of a good book in your hands and you simply can’t imagine reading all your books on an electronic device. I like being able to manipulate the book and feel the weight of it in my hands. I like that it doesn’t need to be charged and is always ready to be read. It doesn’t have electronic errors and sunlight doesn’t make it impossible to read. If I drop it, it won’t break. If it gets damp from a bath or the beach, it dries out. A book, not matter how enjoyable, is unlikely to be a targeted by a thief, and if stolen, I can easily afford a new one. Seeing the cover of a memorable book can cause perfect strangers to strike up a conversation with you that would have been unlikely if they only saw the back of an e-book reader.

Ok, so enough of my ode to books. Yes, books are great but they still take up too much space. So if you happen to share my love of traveling with actual books, what can you do if you don’t want to lug around a suitcase of books? Below are some tips that we have used ourselves or saw others doing during our travels that can help improve your experience of traveling with books.

Table of Contents:

Tips on Choosing and Packing Books Before You Leave

• Purchase secondhand books to take along on your trip at your local library, book store, or thrift store. We especially like to buy secondhand books that are set in the locations we are going to visit or written by authors from the countries we are going to be visiting. Hemingway’s A Moveable Feast is twice as good if read in Paris (trust me!).
• Take only one or two books, just enough to get you through the first long leg of travel and the first few days. You can then discover new books during your travels.
• Reduce bulk and weight by choosing paperback over hardback books.
• If you are traveling with other people, choose books you can swap with your travel partners.
• Buy city or regional guidebooks instead of full country guides if you only plan to visit a single city or region. For instance if you are only visiting London while in England, you don’t need a guidebook to the whole country.
• Take apart guidebooks and only take the sections you need for your trip. If you have a guidebook to Vietnam and are only visiting the Red River Delta area, just take the relevant sections.
• Sign up for BookCrossing , which is a free website that connects you to a community of fellow book lovers. After joining, you can print out labels and put them in your books. Then after you finish reading the book on your trip, you can leave it and hopefully future readers will find the note and register the book on the site. This way you may be able to track your book as it continues traveling after you are already back home.
• If you pack and write in paper travel journals like we do, look for slim compact ones. Oddly, this is one of the items we spend the most time selecting before our trip as it’s something we use every day of the trip and hope to keep it forever.

Tips for Exchanging, Donating, and Borrowing Books During your Travels

• Once you are finished reading the books you brought along, donate or leave them at the places you stay along the way. Small inns, hostels, and bed and breakfasts normally have a shared bookcase for guest use. Leave your book and borrow a new one.
• Keep an eye out for advertisements for book exchanges and swaps at local hostels, coffee shops, book stores, churches, and libraries.
• Visit local bookstores, outdoor book vendors, and thrift stores to buy new books and donate the ones you’ve already read.
• Many tourist sites, such as castles, churches, and museums, sell wonderful English books in their gift shops. Buy a book about the place you are visiting so the book can double as a souvenir or gift.
• Swap books directly with other people. This is a great way to get to know your fellow travelers. It’s an especially great avenue in countries where it may be difficult to find books in English.
• Staying in one place for a while? Check out the local library. Very few travelers ever think about using the library, but some libraries will grant non-residents a card for temporary check-out privileges for free or a minimal cost. Even if you can’t get borrowing privileges, the library provides a great peaceful place to read and get online. It’s also a great place to meet locals, and librarians can be great sources of local information.
• Some cities have wonderful English libraries, like the American Library in Paris, which can provide a great place to access not only American newspapers and magazines, but also those travel guides and maps you decided to leave at home to save space. Libraries are great places to plan the next leg of your trip.

We have found that searching for places to leave our books and finding new ones can lead to unexpected discoveries of both books and people. It can expose you to new and unexpected books. For instance, I had always wanted to read The Remains of the Day and finally did so when I discovered it on a shelf in Switzerland. In Provence, I read a book written by a local writer I had never heard of before, and Ethan read The Notebook because it was the only book available. He bashfully confessed to enjoying the book but would have never read it otherwise. The search for new books can lead to passionate conversations with strangers (the Frenchman who gave me his opinion on Hemingway), and lead you to venture into places you may have otherwise overlooked (libraries, church basements, and funky secondhand shops). Give it a try!

We hope that these tips are useful to those traveling with books. Have other tips we missed? Wanna share some of your favorite spots for finding new books while traveling?  We’d love to hear from you!

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There are 24 comments on this post.

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Gloria Post author

January 18, 2019 at 7:19 am

An incredible article about the joys of travel and books. Thank you for that. A lot to learn from here.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

January 18, 2019 at 9:03 am

Thanks Gloria, glad you enjoyed the article!

Kristy Post author

June 29, 2016 at 3:42 pm

Hi Jessica, Thanks for the great tips! I’ve done book swaps at hostels and whatnot in Europe before but I’m excited to try the Bookcrossing website – it sounds really neat! Have you had any experience travelling in Asia? Are there still English bookstores or hostel book-swapping when English is not as widely spoken?

travelcats Post author

June 29, 2016 at 6:01 pm

Hi Kristy, You’re very welcome:) It is harder to find English language books in Asia than Europe, but you’ll still find them in many hostels as well as some popular homestays/small hotels. Even if there is no formal book exchange shelf, hostels are also a great place to just ask other travelers if they have any books they’d like to exchange. Book stores are more difficult but you can still find English sections in some book stores in larger cities. Another tip would be to just ask an English speaking host or guide in each city or post on a website or forum for English-speaking expats wherever you are traveling and ask about local book stores or book exchanges as they will know where the best places are to find English books. Good luck and have fun with Bookcrossing – just be sure to have the labels before you set out as it can be difficult to find a printer when traveling. ~ Jessica

Clare Post author

May 28, 2016 at 6:47 am

I’ve really enjoyed reading this. Some great tips here for those of us that won’t give up on the physical book for anything. I used book exchanges whenever I’ve been travelling for long periods at a time and it’s really special finding some book you’ve always meant to read. I love the idea of the Bookcrossing website you mention. How wonderful to think that you could potentially track a favourite book from place to place as it finds its way from one book-loving traveller to another!

May 29, 2016 at 6:38 pm

Hi Clare, Glad you liked this article! 3 years later (after writing this post) and I am still traveling with physical books! No e-readers for me although my husband does own a Kindle 🙂 ~ Jessica

Marie-France (a.k.a. BigTravelNut) Post author

August 30, 2014 at 7:16 pm

Good tips! I follow several of them already. Most places that see a lot of travellers have at least one book exchange shop. And I have left my share of guidebooks behind in hostels, or have gotten a few dollars for them in used bookshops. The only thing that still breaks my heart is having to rip a heavy guidebook to extract only the sections I need!

August 31, 2014 at 11:06 am

Thanks Marie-France, yes, I also feel sad about ripping apart any book. I actually try to make photocopies if possible rather than tearing one apart but then I feel bad for wasting paper:)

Samantha Angell Post author

March 6, 2014 at 6:16 am

I love this post! I am always in a constant battle between books on my kindle, or actual books. I usually end up just buying a couple of cheap, used books and leaving them at the hotel, hoping somebody else picks them up!

March 6, 2014 at 7:55 pm

I think that is a good way to go! A lot of hostels, B&B’s and little hotels have a communal bookshelf so we tend to leave them there.

Megan C. Stroup Post author

February 26, 2014 at 9:43 pm

I’ve gotten used to traveling with a Kindle for the convenience of it, but these are some great tips! I did find a Jodi Picoult novel (in English!) in a hotel in Switzerland once. That was a treat!

February 27, 2014 at 8:43 am

I love finding books at places I stay and reading them! Ethan and I tend to actually pack 1-2 books each, leave them as we go and pick up others (usually for free) as we travel.

Darcy Post author

August 12, 2013 at 6:54 pm

This is a great article! It’s probably my favorite on the blog, so far. I’m a huge fan of bringing waaaaay too many books with me when I travel. I tend to shove my purse (which looks more like a tote bag) full of them and then just deal with my aching shoulders. However, this article has given me a few new ideas on how to handle my book addiction while traveling. Thanks for the tips!

August 12, 2013 at 7:16 pm

Yes, I have the same problem with wanting to take too many books. Hope some of the tips coming in handy during future travels!

Rachel Brandt Fisher Post author

August 9, 2013 at 3:47 pm

I am the worst when it comes to packing way too many books. I’m always worried I’m not going to have enough to read on the plane ride over or that I’m going to pick something that doesn’t fit the mood I’m in. I guess having over 1000 books in my personal library makes me accustomed to a large selection on any given day.

I love the idea of reading books where they are set. I read Wuthering Heights on a rainy day while we were traveling through the English countryside by train. That was four years ago and it’s still one of my favorite memories of that trip.

August 9, 2013 at 4:27 pm

Reading Wuthering Heights in the English countryside sounds wonderful:) I read The Remains of the Day while in the Swiss Alps, which was great, but probably would have been even better in the English countryside.

Christy Post author

August 6, 2013 at 7:00 am

Good ideas and tips here. I also prefer physical books to e-readers, though I seem to be in the minority. In addition to libraries with English books, some foreign cities also have English-language bookstores. These were a godsend when I lived in Japan. We’d ride the train over an hour to pick up English language books!

August 6, 2013 at 3:11 pm

Totally agree Christy. Riding a train 1 hour each way to get books shows some good dedication to reading!

Angela Post author

August 4, 2013 at 5:09 pm

Great post and so true, I hope books never go out of fashion. I tend to buy books from 2nd hand bookshops when I travel but the problem is if I like them I can’t give them away, hence why I’m usually over weight on my baggage allowance!

August 4, 2013 at 6:13 pm

Yes, I totally agree Angela. I had a really hard time leaving one of my books on this last trip after I finished. I just always tell myself that I can always buy another copy or borrow it from the library.

Mary G. Post author

August 4, 2013 at 10:51 am

My favorite thing to do on vacation is READ. There is nothing more peaceful then laying out by a pool or a lake with an awesome book to indulge in. And I would also much rather have an actual book then an electronic device to read off of. I usually pack myself a book or two to hold me over and then find new books to read while Im out on my vacation, that way I dont have to worry about packing a whole suitcase dedicated to my books. Like the article says, you can usually find small hotels or inns that have a book donation program that you can trade the bools you have already read for ones that you have not. This program works well for me. This article also introduced me to bookcrossing.com which is a neat site to join. Very helpful article, thank you.

August 4, 2013 at 10:54 am

I couldn’t agree more, but I think we are quickly becoming the minority as I see more and people reading on their Nooks and Kindles these days when I travel. More books for us I guess!

Olivia Post author

July 21, 2013 at 4:28 pm

This is such a great article! I really love books as well and have actually taken a duffel bag full of books on trip before but only within the States. I’ve never thought of some of these things before, thanks for the tips!

July 22, 2013 at 5:54 am

Thanks Olivia for stopping by and leaving a comment! Yes, I always want to pack lots of books too but they take up so much room. Hope some of these tips were helpful to you.

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How To Travel With Books Without Damaging Them

If you love to travel and read, you may have run into the problem of how to travel with books without ruining them. Books, especially paperbacks, can be delicate, so shoving them into backpacks and suitcases is dangerous. However, there are ways to travel with books without causing them too much damage.

Here’s how to travel with books without damaging them:

• Choose a safe spot in your luggage to store your books.
• Keep your books in a waterproof bag.
• Remove book jackets from hardbacks.
• Invest in fabric book covers or canvassed book covers.
• Wrap your books in your clothing.
• Pack durable books.
• Mail your books back home when you’re done reading them.
• Keep your books in Tupperware.

The rest of this article details the methods you can use to travel with books while keeping them safe, offers some other alternatives for reading on the go, and explains what to do if your books do get damaged during travel.

1. Choose a Safe Spot in Your Luggage To Store Your Books

The best way to keep your books safe is to pack them in a bag with multiple compartments or pockets so that you can separate the books from anything else that might do them harm.

Some carry-ons have a separate zipped compartment for computers, so you can use that space for books if you aren’t bringing a laptop. If you’re bringing a computer, bring a slim book to fit in with your laptop.

I have a laptop sleeve for my computer, and if a book is thin enough, I’ll keep it in the laptop sleeve so it’s safe from any other items I have in my luggage at the time.

A laptop sleeve is designed to keep damaging things out, so this is a great place for a book.

One backpack that’s ideal for travel and has a space designed for a laptop is the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack ( available on Amazon.com ). This backpack has a lot of storage space and separate pockets . It is also made with solid, durable material that is water-resistant, so even if you get caught in the rain, your books will be safe inside.

Other good places for books are the front pouch of a roller suitcase, the side of a duffle bag, and the back of a backpack, as these are areas where a book is most likely to keep its shape and least likely to get damaged by other items.

2. Keep Your Books in a Waterproof Bag

Books carried around while traveling is highly susceptible to weather damage or leakage from liquid containers in suitcases or backpacks. The best way to protect them from water damage ( or worse, shampoo damage ) is to keep them in a waterproof bag or pouch.

I use the YUMQUA Clear Waterproof Bags ( available on Amazon.com ) because they come in three sizes:

I keep my books in the large one, my e-reader in the medium one, and my phone and wallet in the small one. Additionally, they’re made with a fold-down magic tape closure that keeps out all liquid.

3. Remove Book Jackets From Hardbacks

Book jackets on hardcovers are the part of books that are most likely to get damaged during travel. After all, they’re just paper, so the best way to avoid them getting damaged or torn is to not bring them on the trip at all.

Another benefit of this is that if you leave the jacket at home and the hardcover gets scuffed during travel, you won’t even know once you put the jacket back on.

4. Invest in Fabric Book Covers or Canvassed Book Covers

Do you remember those fabric book sleeves that you had to cover your school textbooks with?

You can buy them for your non-textbook books, too, to protect them from stains, scratches, and bent corners. Another benefit is that they come in many different designs, so you can customize what you want your book to look like.

I like the KAPAX Book Cover ( available on Amazon.com ) because they come in many different designs and are made of durable, waterproof fabric. The fabrics are also interlined inside for extra protection.

My favorite design is the one with bikes on it, but there are over 15 other designs to choose from, so you’ll find one that you like.

You can also get a canvas book cover, which is even more durable. Most canvas book covers are designed for Bibles, but they’ll work for any book. The Christian Art Gifts Bible Cover ( available on Amazon.com ) comes in several designs, and it has a handle, so you can carry your book with ease.

Another way to cover your books without spending a lot of money is to make your own book covers out of a brown paper bag. Here are the steps :

• Cut the paper bag open, so it lays flat.
• Put the brown paper bag down on a flat surface and center the book on the paper.
• Draw a horizontal line on the paper along the top and bottom of the book using a ruler and a pencil.
• Remove the book and fold the paper from the top and bottom to the drawn lines, creasing the paper on the lines you just drew.
• Place the book back on the paper, centering it horizontally. Line the book up to flush the top and bottom with your creases.
• Open the front cover of your book and fold the left edge of the paper in, covering the front of the book, and cutting any excess.
• Close the book and keep the paper snug around the cover.
• Do the same with the back cover.
• Slide the book’s covers into the paper pockets you just created.

If you need extra help, this YouTube video shows the process in full.

5. Wrap Your Books in Your Clothing

If you’re putting your books in a suitcase, wrap them in any clothing you’re packing in that bag. This way, if anything happens, such as if a lotion bottle explodes, or your shampoo spills, your washable clothes will take most of the damage.

This will also soften any blows the books may get from being shuffled around on airplanes or buses, keeping corners from being bent and covers from getting scuffed.

6. Pack Durable Books

Now isn’t the time to bring your most fragile, delicate books with you. Bring your strongest books with you while you travel if you want to keep your books in the best condition possible. Flimsy paperbacks? Probably not your best bet. But a sturdy hardcover with strong pages? Now we’re talking.

Some books are more prone to damage than others, so give yourself the best chance of keeping your books nice by only bringing books that are durable and can take some hits.

7. Mail Your Books Back Home When You’re Done Reading Them

If you’re worried about your book getting damaged while traveling, stop traveling with it once you’re done. You can choose to mail your books back home after you’re done reading them so that they’ll be waiting for you in packages when you get back.

However, this can get expensive, especially if you’re traveling internationally. Additionally, there’s no guarantee that your book won’t get damaged while making its way back to your home, which would ruin the whole purpose of mailing it in the first place.

However, if keeping the book in perfect condition is important to you, this is the best way to get it home safely without having to spend the rest of your travels worrying about it.

8. Keep Your Books in Tupperware

This may seem a bit strange, but Tupperware comes in all shapes and sizes, and there’s no law saying you can’t use it to keep your books safe during travel. A big Tupperware container could even store more than one book, and it’ll keep the books safe from any bad weather or spills.

I’ve found that the Komax Storage Container ( available on Amazon.com ) can fit several books in it, and the airtight seal keeps the books safe. Additionally, the handle makes it perfect for carrying books to a beach or a park to read!

Tupperware will take up space in your suitcase, though, so this may not be the best choice for you if you don’t have a lot of space.

Other Options To Consider

I get it. You love the feeling of a real, physical book in your hands. I do too! However, if you’re traveling, there are other options to get your reading done without having to haul a bunch of physical books around.

Here are other options:

• Get an e-reader. This is one of the best ways to carry lots of books with you without having to worry about damaging them, and you can have access to hundreds of books! I use the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite ( available on Amazon.com ) because it has adjustable warm light that doesn’t hurt my eyes, and it reads like real paper, even in direct sunlight.
• Listen to audiobooks. This is a great way to read books while traveling. I love to listen to audiobooks while I’m on buses or trains so I can look outside and see the landscapes and read simultaneously. The best part is that audiobooks live on your phone, so you don’t need to worry about packing them.
• Participate in book swaps and exchanges. One way to avoid damaging a book is to get rid of it as soon as you’re done reading. Many hotels and hostels have book swap and exchange stations, where you can leave a book and take a book. This is a great way to always have fresh reading material while avoiding the risk of damaging a book by carrying it around for too long.
• Print a PDF of the book to carry instead of having the actual book on hand. Some books, especially classics open to the public domain, are available online in PDF form. One option to avoid damaging your books is to print out the PDFs and to bring those on your travels instead. This way, you can recycle the pages you’ve read already.
• Only bring already-damaged books. If you have any unread books at home that are already in bad condition, bring them traveling. If they get a little more worn, you might not care. Another idea is to repurchase the book you want to bring with you for cheap at a thrift store or used bookstore. This way, you’ll have a nice copy to keep on your shelves and to come home to, but you can bring the other copy on your travels.

If you aren’t dead-set on carrying your books with you, these are great ways to still get a lot of reading done without damaging your physical books.

What To Do if Your Book Gets Damaged

Sometimes you do everything you can to protect your books, and they still get damaged, especially if you’re traveling with them. If this happens, don’t give up hope. There are ways to repair some damages to books.

Here are how to fix some common damage:

• A ripped page. Place a piece of wax paper underneath the ripped page, paint some glue over the tear, place another piece of wax paper over the tear and press a bone folder on it to get rid of any bubbles and make sure the glue is properly applied. If you aren’t that worried about aesthetics, just tape over the tear.
• A broken cover. Brace the book with weights, cut a piece of bookbinding repair tape the book’s length, and gently wrap the tape over the spine. The Koltose by Mash Bookbinding Tape ( available on Amazon.com ) uses a smoother cloth material to look and feel better on books, and it’s built to last.
• Take the book to a book repair shop. If the damage is really bad, you can always take your book to a professional for some serious doctoring. Some regular bookstores also offer book repair services, so check with your local bookseller.

Key Takeaways

If you’re traveling with books, choose a safe spot in your luggage to store them, preferably a compartment separate from everything else or in a waterproof bag.

Here are other tips:

• Remove book jackets, as these are likely to tear.
• Invest in book covers or wrap your books in clothes while traveling.
• Pack books that are durable, like hardcovers.
• Send finished books back home if possible.
• Read while on the go using an e-reader, listening to audiobooks, or printing PDFs of books.
• If your book does get damaged, there are ways you can try to mend it.
• Family Travel Folio: How to Travel With Books Without Damaging Them
• Frostbeard Studio: How to Keep Books Safe While Traveling
• WikiHow: How to Make a Book Cover
• BookRiot: How to Repair a Broken Book

Linda Jones

Linda Jones is a professional travel advisor, author of Travel Agent Secrets and The Ultimate Travel Planner + Journal, and founder of Crafted Travel Company. She has helped thousands of people plan better vacations and travel more.

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Family Travel Folio

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How to Travel with Books without Damaging Them

Some people may just bring an e-book reader like a Kindle on their trips to avoid messing up the pages of their favorite books. You can also bring more books without worry of how much it weighs. 

But for those of us who prefer the physical book- especially for our little one to turn the pages and not be looking at a screen, there are ways to pack paper books without worrying about damaging them.

Packing Books

The biggest thing about packing books is to make sure the bag you put them in has a flat space to store them. If there’s no shape to the bag, or no flat items to pin the book between, you will end up with some damaged corners.

What Books to Bring while Traveling

When packing books for the girls, I try and only bring board books or hardback books. This helps protect the pages, and many children’s books have small and light hardback books.

Bring either 1 or 2 total. The more books you bring, the more you risk having them end up where they can get damaged. One book for the commute (plane, car, train, etc.) and one book that’s different for bedtime.

Also, I would suggest bringing books with more words than less- even if they’re babies, the sound of your voice can often help when getting them to fall asleep. Less words makes the task of continuous, monotone sound a bit more difficult. Plus, the more words there are, the more fun you can have keeping the attention of your little ones with different voices and a more upbeat reading.

* Side note : If your baby or toddler isn’t into the book at ALL, then don’t force it. Skip pages and words if they won’t leave it on one page long enough. If they won’t stay in your lap, keep reading out loud while they find something else to play with- they are still listening. If they won’t even let that happen, just let it go and try again later. The more you force it, the more they fight against it altogether.

Reading is a huge part of our bedtime routine, so we stick with it even when traveling. It doesn’t make every transition to sleeping somewhere new 100% easy, but it is a huge help.

7 Step Bedtime Routine For Kids

• Brush Teeth
• Say Goodnight to Everyone
• Bedtime Story
• Bedtime Prayer
• Bedtime Song

We keep to our bedtime routine even when camping, although the exact order may be switched up a bit. Brushing teeth, potty, and saying goodnight typically comes before pajamas when staying in a tent. Of course, if you have a baby or a toddler, the diaper is changed when the pajamas are put on- no need for the potty step yet.

And if you’re little one is super tuckered out from the day, they may not even last through the story. 

The point is, reading a story is a great way to quiet down and help kids transition to sleeping. If you wouldn’t skip it at home, don’t skip reading when traveling.

Alright, now to decide: regular book, small book, or tiny book?

Is your munchkin obsessing over a particular book for bedtime right now? Bring that one.

Otherwise, it’s fair game. How much space do you have? Long trip, not much room for more? Find a smaller, flat book to pack or go for the teeny tiny book.

Plenty of room and you want more words, go ahead and pack that hardback Dr. Suess book for the road.

Here are examples of the size and types of books we bring with when traveling:

How to Pack Books for Traveling

Here are some general book packing guidelines:

• Front pouch of roller suitcase
• Side of duffle bag
• Back of the backpack
• Front pocket of Diaper Bag
• In a zip-up Travel Tray Organizer
• Mom’s purse

Remember, it’s best to have it in a bag that has a bit of shape to it and a pocket that has nothing else. If you don’t have that, then thoughtfully pack larger, flatter items around the book to help “pin” it in place. These items could be notebooks, sticker books, tablet or drawing pad, etc. Think how you would have packed your school backpack.

My own book I bring to read is typically a smaller paperback, and I keep that in my purse where the kids won’t be throwing it around and I have more control about how things are taken out and put back in. 

The Destination

My main advice is to not bring a book that is worth a lot financially or emotionally- save that book for when you get home. That being said, there are definitely things you can do to protect your books while you are out and about exploring the world.

Storing the Books

Keep the books in their assigned bags until you are ready to read them. If you’re going back and forth between the book, a side table or the back pocket on the seat in the car are great places to temporarily place a book.

If you put it on a dining table or kitchen counter, you are just asking for it to get wet or get food on it. If you don’t want others putting a glass on it (*gasp*), then don’t leave it out in the common space. Not everyone thinks about books the same or treats them the same way.

If you couldn’t tell, I’m the kind of person who gets mad when someone dog-ears one of the pages or steps on a book. Our girls were taught as a baby to be nice to books because of my own tendencies.

Once done with the book, put it back where you packed it. If you had it in a pocket separate from other items, they shouldn’t be disturbed by others fishing around for clothes or other things.

* Packing Tip : fold your dirty clothes as you go. It saves so much time and space when packing to go home. The worst is trying to zip up a suitcase of clothes that were just thrown in, and what was beautifully tetris-ed is now a messy pile that won’t fit.

Weather and Books

Wanting to read by the pool or on the beach? Have a dry towel nearby to dry your hands after your swim before reading, or to wipe off any drips. 

A pool bag or beach bag is a great way to store your book if you’re leaving it alone for a while. I love reading on the beach, but I would never leave my book directly on the sand or on the towel that is laying on the sand- you need a bit more of a buffer if it’s not in your hands.

Expecting rain or snow? Don’t read outside if you were planning to before. Go inside the cafe or chalet and read by a window. An excellent snowboarding break is reading a few chapters while drinking hot chocolate, looking out the window at the snowy mountains around you.

Crazy humidity? Have a ziploc bag (or something similarly water resistant) to place your book into before you put it in your day bag or backpack. This helps keep it dry even when getting in and out of the bag for other items.

Adding More Books

The book as a souvenir.

Books are an amazing souvenir as they can capture the moments you just experienced in a story format. It’s the gift that keeps giving as it can be read again and again.

Don’t go for that big beautiful coffee table book unless you know you have room in your suitcase. Using the clothes as a “bubble wrap” can help if you want to decrease the chances of the corners getting dinged on the plane back home.

I like to keep them in the shopping bag, and then pack the clothes carefully around them.

Other books can easily fit exactly where the books are that you brought with you in the first place, especially if they will want to be read while you are traveling back home.

Taking Books Back Home

Pack books exactly how you packed them in the first place.

It makes traveling so much easier to just stay organized while you are on vacation. Use the hotel drawers, or keep the suitcase organized. Don’t leave piles of stuff everywhere for stud to get lost or stepped on.

Proper care of books fits in with proper care of all your items. 

Be respectful of others’ space- if you leave in on the couch, someone might sit on it. If you leave it by the kitchen sink- guess what? That’s right, it may get wet, and you can’t get mad because you’re the one who left it in common space that normally gets splashes of water.

Put things back where they “belong.” Everything should have a temporary travel home. Figure it out on day one and then keep things organized day to day- it’s so much less stressful than trying to vacation in a mess!

Have you had to get creative with book packing or bringing books while traveling? A time where you forgot a book for bedtime? Let us know in the comments.

Looking for a community of those that love to travel and love to read? Join us on Facebook ! It’s a book club all about being a book space to share book & travel related topics. No time commitment, no book you have to read each month- just book related posts to help you, inspire you, relate with you, and make you smile. 

See you there!

Travel Blogger

Family Travel Folio was created in 2019 by Katie to help and inspire parents to travel with their kids from Camping to Disneyland and everything in between.

Katie is a Disney obsessed bookworm who loves to explore with her husband and their 2 girls. You can find her learning fun facts about animals or eating sour candy while planning another fun adventure.

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Home » Gear » books to read while travelling

The Ultimate List of the 50 Best Books to Read While Traveling (Updated 2024!)

One of my favourite things about traveling is that I suddenly have time to read. When I’m hitching, camping or riding a 24 hour train whilst backpacking around the world, I often manage to read two or even three books a week. So over the course of the last year I’ve got through a fair few, some have been frankly life changing, others have been just as much of a slog as an overnight bus!

As travelers, we understand the transformative power of exploration, the allure of the unknown, and the magic of a well-told tale. It’s for this reason I have put together a list of the best travel books to read when backpacking!

Many of these travel books are best read when you’re actually in the country they are set in; for example, reading Shantaram in India is a really fantastic experience and you will get a lot more out of the book. Same goes for books about backpacking in general, they just seem to make the experience much more reflective and relatable.

From dog-eared classics to hidden gems, the best travel books serve as compasses guiding us through distant lands, exotic cultures, and incredible new experiences. They can fuel our wanderlust, ignite our imagination, and remind us of the infinite possibilities that await on the road.

And so, in no particular order, here we go with the 50 best books to read while traveling… The world is waiting – let’s explore it together, one page at a time.

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#1 – On the Road

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Jack Kerouac’s seminal novel should be compulsory reading for all nomads, backpackers and folks who want to live off the grid. In ‘On The Road’ discover 1950s underground America as Kerouac hitches backwards and forwards across the states in search of Jazz, drugs, sex and the meaning of life. Definitely, one of my favourite books to read while travelling and one of the best backpacking books out there.

#2 – The Cloud Garden

The Darien Gap is a place of Legend. The only break in the Pan-American highway, which runs from Alaska to the tip of South America. The gap is often seen as an almost impregnable strip of swamp, jungle and cloud forest inhabited by FARC gorillas.

This fascinating book tells the story of two unlikely travellers who team up and try to get through the gap from Panama to Colombia, on foot. After a gruelling journey, they are just hours from success when they are captured by FARC fighters and held prisoner in the jungle for nine months. Ok, so you might not want to literally follow in their footsteps but it’s one of the most inspirational books about traveling the world.

#3 – Shantaram

The first book I ever read on India, Shantaram inspired me to book a one-way flight to Delhi and travel around India for 14 months. It might just be my favourite book about traveling around the world if I’m honest!

The book follows the possibly true, possibly exaggerated, story of an escaped Australian convict who finds his way to India where he falls in love, works for gangsters, fights the Russians in Afghanistan, gets imprisoned in Bombay, becomes a professional forger and an amateur doctor and experiences life in an Indian slum.

One of the best books to read while travelling in India, it is extremely well written and paints an accurate, although somewhat rosy, picture of life in India.

#4 –  Last Man in Tower

21st Century Mumbai is a city of new money and soaring real estate, and property kingpin Dharmen Shah has grand plans for its future. His offer to buy and tear down a weathered tower block, making way for luxury apartments, will make each of its residents rich – if all agree to sell.

But not everyone wants to leave; many of the residents have lived there for a lifetime, and many of them are no longer young. As tensions rise among the once civil neighbours, one by one those who oppose the offer give way to the majority, until only one man stands in Shah’s way: Masterji, a retired schoolteacher, once the most respected man in the building.

Shah is a dangerous man to refuse, but as the demolition deadline looms, Masterji’s neighbours – friends who have become enemies, acquaintances turned co-conspirators – may stop at nothing to secure their money. This is really one of the most poignant books to read while travelling in India, it changed how I viewed the country irreversibly.

#5 – A Long Petal of the Sea

Backdropped by the ongoing unrest of the Spanish Civil War, A Long Petal of the Sea offers a tale of love in the face of hardship, a complex cast of characters interwoven into the plot, and the daily struggle to survive. This was one of my absolute favourite reads of 2024 and an awesome bit of travel reading – another gem by Isabel Allende!

#6 – Mumbai to Ventiane

Need more India? I loved my 2 years in this country and Leon G Hewis similarly had an awesome adventure that began on this mysterious subcontinent.

His self-published travelogue-slash-thought-diary gives a refreshing look into South and Southeast Asia. He fully captures the feeling of being on the road and confronting new ideas and creatively working yourself out of situations you’d never encounter on your couch at home. If you’re looking for a definative book about traveling the world and the experiences that come with it then this is the one.

#7 – On a Shoestring to Coorg

This is the first travel book that tested the idea that a five-year old daughter makes for a decent travelling companion. A really interesting read on the now-defunct Indian state of Coorg, this book gives a fascinating insight into the origins of backpacker travel in India.

#8 – The Kite Runner

A fascinating, sometimes painful, read about Afghanistan under Taliban rule. The story follows the fate of two young boys, one of whom is able to escape to America whilst the other, of the Hazara minority group, is forced to stay behind.

#9 – A Thousand Splendid Suns

One of the most inspirational books to read while travelling, I felt that this gave me a real insight into the little known women of Afghanistan and the events that have shaped the country over the last thirty years.

#10 – Born to Run

A tale of a mysterious tribe of Mexican Indians, the Tarahumara, who live hidden in canyons and are reputed to be the best long distance runners in the world.

#11 – The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test

This is THE book to read if you are interested in how the psychedelic movement began, squats, hippy culture or experimenting with LSD.

Follow Ken Kesey, author of One Flew over the Cuckoos Nest, as he leads his band of Merry Pranksters across America fermenting a revolution unlike any other. Definitely, one of the best books to read on the road.

#12 – The Lost City of Z

This is THE book you want to read if you are headed into the Amazon. The book tells the tale of an eccentric British explorer, Percy Fawcett, who spent his life leading expeditions into the Amazon in search of the legendary lost City of Z.

The book recounts his life, his encounters with un-contacted tribes and his final expedition, from which he did not return.

#13 – Indonesia, Etc. Exploring the Improbable Nation

 In Indonesia Etc, Pisani weaves together the stories of Indonesians encountered on her journey with a considered analysis of Indonesia’s recent history, corrupt political system, ethnic and religious identities, stifling bureaucracy and traditional ‘sticky’ cultures.

Fearless and funny, she gives a compelling and sharply perceptive account of a captivating nation.

#14 – The Motorcycle Diaries

A travel classic, these are the diaries of Che Guevara in which he travels around South America by motorbike. A book that is ALWAYS on the list of best books to read while travelling.

#15 – The Killing Fields

Hands-down THE best book you can read about Cambodia under the rule of the Khmer Rouge. Heartbreaking, beautifully written and historically accurate, this book will change how you perceive Cambodia forever.

#16 – First they Killed my Father

The personal account of a young girl who was taken from her family and trained as a child soldier by the Khmer Rouge.

#17 – The Waiting Land

It’s about an Irish writer volunteering in Nepal in the 1960’s. The innocent Nepal she writes about it is the one which hordes of travellers each year are still trying to find but which is sadly now gone forever.

#18 – Mud, Sweat and Tears

The inspiring autobiography of Bear Grylls in which he recovers from a broken back and goes on to become one of the youngest climbers to scale Mount Everest. One of the best books to read while travelling anywhere! It truly inspires you to challenge yourself.

#19 – Nine Lives

A Buddhist monk takes up arms to resist the Chinese invasion of Tibet – then spends the rest of his life trying to atone for the violence by hand printing the best prayer flags in India. A Jain nun tests her powers of detachment as she watches her best friend ritually starve herself to death.

Nine people, nine lives; each one taking a different religious path, each one an unforgettable story. William Dalrymple is one of the best writers when it comes to offering an insight into Indian culture and I highly recommend reading everything he has written.

#20 – Heart of Darkness

At the peak of European Imperialism, steamboat captain Charles Marlow travels deep into the African Congo on his way to relieve the elusive Mr Kurtz, an ivory trader renowned for his fearsome reputation.

On his journey into the unknown Marlow takes a terrifying trip into his own subconscious, overwhelmed by his menacing, perilous and horrifying surroundings.

#21 – Blood River

When Daily Telegraph correspondent Tim Butcher was sent to cover Africa in 2000 he quickly became obsessed with the idea of recreating H.M. Stanley’s famous expedition – but travelling alone.

Despite warnings that his plan was ‘suicidal’, Butcher set out for the Congo’s eastern border with just a rucksack and a few thousand dollars hidden in his boots.

Making his way in an assortment of vessels including a motorbike and a dugout canoe, helped along by a cast of characters from UN aid workers to a campaigning pygmy, he followed in the footsteps of the great Victorian adventurers. This is an epic book for anyone, but it’s epecially of of the best books to read while traveling alone.

#22 – Stranger in the Forest

The best account of an adventure expedition that I have ever read. Stranger in the forest recounts the humorous story of the author’s travels in Borneo where he made lifelong friends with the Penan, jungle people who can catch fish with their feet, imitate the cry of the elusive barking deer, and survive in a fearsomely inhospitable environment.

With their help Hansen learned to hunt pigs, danced in the tribal rituals, discovered the eye watering nature of Penan sex aids and was given the ceremonial name “Rajah Kumis”: King of the Moustache.

He conveys how he came face to face with himself in the patch of map marked “un-surveyed”, and records the experience of living in a proud and ancient tribal community based on mutual respect. One of the most interesting books to read while travelling.

#23 – Absurdistan

Award-winning foreign correspondent Eric Campbell has been stoned by fundamentalists, captured by US Special Forces, arrested in Serbia and threatened with expulsion from China.

He’s negotiated dating rituals in Moscow, shared a house with a charismatic mercenary in Kabul and taken up smoking at gunpoint in Kosovo.

#24 – Speed Bump Himalayas

A hilarious and moving true story of trials and tribulations from a time before mobile phones ruined travel. Mark escapes dreary England in search of adventure and washes up in India with his buddy Sean in tow.

Together, they head into the mountains of Nepal on an ambitious trek but Mark is doomed from the start and embarks upon one of the longest survival journeys I have ever heard of… A rollercoaster ride of amusing cultural observations along the hippie trail, pure survival grit and living the nomad dream.

#25 – Travels on My Elephant

With the help of a Maratha nobleman, Mark Shand buys an elephant named Tara and rides her over six hundred miles across India to the Sonepur Mela, the world’s oldest elephant market.

From Bhim, a drink-racked mahout, Shand learned to ride and care for her. From his friend Aditya Patankar he learned Indian ways. And with Tara, his new companion, he fell in love.

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Need more inspiration? Here’s 25 more of the best travel books…

Faq about the best books to read while travelling, final thoughts, #26 – chasing the devil.

For many years, war made Sierra Leone and Liberia too dangerous for outsiders to travel through. Facing down demons from his time in Africa as a journalist, Tim Butcher heads deep into this combat zone, encountering the devastation wrought by lawless militia, child soldiers, brutal violence, blood diamonds and masked figures who guard the spiritual secrets of remote jungle communities.

#27 – A Walk in the Woods

For those of you not familiar with Bill Bryson, he is point blank one of the most amusing travel writers out there. In this tale of walking and woe, Bryson attempts to traverse the Appalachian Trail, one of the longest continuous footpaths in the world which crosses tangled woods and heady peaks.

#28 – Royal Road to Romance

When Richard Halliburton graduated from college, he chose adventure over a career, travelling the world with almost no money. The Royal Road to Romance chronicles what happened as a result, from a breakthrough Matterhorn ascent to being jailed for taking forbidden pictures on Gibraltar.

#29 – The Great Railway Bazaar; By Train Through Asia

Paul Theroux’s account of his epic journey by rail through Asia. Filled with evocative names of legendary train routes – the Direct-Orient Express, the Khyber Pass Local, the Delhi Mail from Jaipur, the Golden Arrow to Kuala Lumpur, the Hikari Super Express to Kyoto and the Trans-Siberian Express – it describes the many places, cultures, sights and sounds he experienced and the fascinating people he met.

Here he overhears snippets of chat and occasional monologues, and is drawn into conversation with fellow passengers, from Molesworth, a British theatrical agent, and Sadik, a shabby Turkish tycoon, while avoiding the forceful approaches of pimps and drug dealers.

#30 – Just a Little Run Around the World

After her husband died of cancer, 57-year-old Rosie set off to run around the world, raising money in memory of the man she loved. Followed by wolves, knocked down by a bus, confronted by bears, chased by a naked man with a gun and stranded with severe frostbite, Rosie’s breathtaking 20,000-mile, 5 year, solo journey is as gripping as it is inspiring.

#31 – Black Lamb and Grey Falcon, A Journey Through Yugoslavia

Rebecca West’s epic masterpiece is widely regarded as the most illuminating book to have been written in the former state of Yugoslavia. It is a work of enduring value that remains essential for anyone attempting to understand the enigmatic history of the Balkan states and the continuing friction in this fractured area of Europe.

#32 – Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know

One of the first books I ever read about expedition-ing, I was inspired to start travelling and to get involved in trekking, climbing and rafting. Ranulph Fiennes has travelled to the most dangerous and inaccessible places on earth, almost died countless times, lost nearly half his fingers to frostbite, raised millions of pounds for charity and been awarded a polar medal and an OBE.

He has been an elite soldier, an athlete, a mountaineer, an explorer, a bestselling author and nearly replaced Sean Connery as James Bond. In his autobiography, he describes how he led expeditions all over the world and became the first person to travel to both poles on land.

He tells the tales of discovering the lost city of Ubar in Oman and attempting to walk solo and unsupported to the North Pole – the expedition that cost him several fingers, and very nearly his life.

#33 – The Worlds Most Dangerous Places

A serious read for the serious explorer, packed full of practical advice on how to travel in some of the world’s most dangerous places. Brace yourselves for one of the darkest books to read while travelling.

#34 – The Dharma Bums

Another Kerouac classic, The Dharma Bums is a journey of self-discovery through the lens of Zen Buddhist thought. Essential reading for all aspiring explorers. Another MUST in the list of best books to read while travelling.

#35 – The Piano Tuner

I read this whilst backpacking in Myanmar, it is beautifully written and enabled me to get a lot more out of my time in this stunning country. The story follows a quiet piano tuner, Edgar Drake, who is ordered by the War Office to travel to the jungles of Burma to tune a rare grand piano for an eccentric British officer renowned for his peace making methods in the war-torn Shan states.

#36 – Walking the Amazon: 860 Days

In April 2008, Ed Stafford began his attempt to become the first man ever to walk the entire length of the River Amazon. Nearly two and a half years later, he had crossed the whole of South America to reach the mouth of the colossal river.

With danger a constant companion – outwitting alligators, jaguars, pit vipers and electric eels, not to mention overcoming the hurdles of injuries and relentless tropical storms – Ed’s journey demanded extreme physical and mental strength.

Often warned by natives that he would die, Ed even found himself pursued by machete-wielding tribesmen and detained for murder.

#37 – The Carpet Wars

A personal odyssey through war, friendship and craftsmanship along the old Silk Route. A fascinating travel book that illuminates the contemporary story of southwest Asia and offers a unique insight into the characters of warlords, presidents and sheikhs.

#38 – The Wild Places

“The Wild Places” is both an intellectual and a physical journey, and Macfarlane travels in time as well as space. Guided by monks, questers, scientists, philosophers, poets and artists, both living and dead, he explores our changing ideas of the wild.

From the cliffs of Cape Wrath to the holloways of Dorset, the storm-beaches of Norfolk, the saltmarshes and estuaries of Essex, and the moors of Rannoch and the Pennines, his journeys become the conductors of people and cultures, past and present, who have had intense relationships with these places. One of the best books to read while travelling!

#39 – Extreme Survivors

60 of the World’s most extreme survival stories. One of the scariest but best books to read while travelling. Plus it has a foreword by Bear Grylls!

#40 – Kon-Tiki, Across the Pacific by Raft

“Kon-Tiki” is the record of an astonishing adventure – a journey 4,300 nautical miles across the Pacific Ocean by raft. Intrigued by Polynesian folklore, biologist Thor Heyerdahl suspected that the South Sea Islands had been settled by an ancient race from thousands of miles to the east, led by the mythical hero Kon-Tiki.

He decided to prove his theory by duplicating the legendary voyage. On April 28, 1947, Heyerdahl and five other adventurers sailed from Peru on a balsa log raft. After three suspenseful months on the open sea, alone among raging storms, whales and countless sharks, they sighted land – the Polynesian island of Puka Puka.

#41 – Into the Wild

Perhaps one of the most popular books to read while travelling, although not one of my personal favourites. Into the Wild follows the true story of Chris McCandless, a young man who walked deep into the Alaskan wilderness in search of enlightenment. They also made a movie about it !

#42 – Honeymoon with my Brother

After being jilted at his wedding, the author heads off on his two-year, fifty-two country, honeymoon…. with a brother he barely knows. What follows is a series of emotional, amusing and unexpected adventures as the author battles to overcome his loss and reconnect with his brother. One of the most heart wrenching books to read while travelling.

#43 – Travels with Charley

When he was almost sixty years old, worried that he might have lost touch with the sights, the sounds and the essence of America’s people, Steinbeck took note of his itchy feet and prepared to travel. He was accompanied by his French poodle, Charley, diplomat and watchdog, across the states of America from Maine to California.

Moving through the woods and deserts, dirt tracks and highways to large cities and glorious wildernesses, Steinbeck observed – with remarkable honesty and insight, with a humorous and sometimes sceptical eye – America, and the Americans who inhabited it. One of the most honest books to read while travelling.

#44 – The Alchemist

Santiago, a young shepherd living in the hills of Andalucia, feels that there is more to life than his humble home and his flock. One day he finds the courage to follow his dreams into distant lands, each step galvanised by the knowledge that he is following the right path: his own. The people he meets along the way, the things he sees and the wisdom he learns are life-changing.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

#45 – Siddhartha

A travel classic, Siddhartha is perhaps the most important and compelling moral allegory our troubled century has produced. Integrating Eastern and Western spiritual traditions with psychoanalysis and philosophy, this strangely simple tale, written with a deep and moving empathy for humanity, has touched the lives of millions since its original publication in 1922. Set in India, Siddhartha is the story of a young Brahmin’s search for ultimate reality after meeting with the Buddha.

His quest takes him from a life of decadence to asceticism, from the illusory joys of sensual love with a beautiful courtesan, and of wealth and fame, to the painful struggles with his son and the ultimate wisdom of renunciation. Definitely, one of the most interesting books to read while travelling!

#46 – Full Tilt, Ireland to India with a Bicycle

Shortly after her tenth birthday, Dervla Murphy decided to cycle to India. Almost 20 years later, she set out to achieve her ambition. Her epic journey began during the coldest winter in memory, taking her through Europe, Persia, Afghanistan , over the Himalayas to Pakistan, and into India. It’s one of the most epic books on backpacking through europe and beyond.

#47 – The Dogs of Nam: Stories from the Road and Lessons Learned Abroad

A collection of short stories from over a decade of travel. This is no glamorous tale of #wanderlust, but a true and honest accounting of what it means to be a traveller.

#48 – Dark Star Safari, Overland from Cairo to Cape Town

Travelling across bush and desert, down rivers and across lakes, and through country after country, Theroux visits some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth, and some of the most dangerous.

It is a journey of discovery and of rediscovery — of the unknown and the unexpected, but also of people and places he knew as a young and optimistic teacher forty years before.

#49 – 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus 

A great book to read while traveling the Americas because it corrects the incorrect history many were taught growing up.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What book would you take on a long journey?

The key is to choose a book that is absorbing but also relatively easy to read as your attention will often be divided. I always try to find a book relevant to the place I am visiting as it really helps me get into the trip!

Which book is very useful for travel?

A copy of the local Lonely Planet will usually come in useful and also be sure to pick up a copy of The Broke Backpackers Backpacker Bible which is full of money saving travel tips.

How do you travel with many books?

Books can be heavy and I dont like carying too many. I personally only carry 1 or 2 at a time and then swap them with other travellers. Alternativley, try a Kindle.

Is reading books good while Travelling?

So reading whilst literrally traveling on a bus or train can put some strain on your eyes. The key is to take frequence eye breaks and not to read too much for too long.

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So there you go! A great list of the best books to read while travelling. For even more reading inspiration, check out my buddy Chris’s new book What the Florida if you want to find the weird in Florida state!

My buddy James at Nomadic Note has put together another mammoth post on the best travel books to fuel your wanderlust, so check that out too if you’re looking for more of the best books to take on vacation.

If there are any I might have missed out, tell me in the comments section!

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50 Comments

I thoroughly enjoyed the list and even sifted through comments to see if our reading tastes align. “The Dogs of Nam: Stories from the Road and Lessons Learned Abroad” is my favorite for long road trips.

I suppose that ‘Cambodia’ offers a captivating account of the nation, combining personal encounters with insightful analysis. Another must-read on my list is ‘The Motorcycle Diaries’ by Che Guevara. This travel classic takes readers on a journey through South America on a motorbike and is a constant presence on the list of best travel books. I enjoy reading it while traveling by train.

I miss traveling so much! As soon as things “go back to normal” a bit more I am heading to EUROPE! This is a great list and in the meantime I will definitely make due with good books about places that I can’t visit (just yet!). I read a super exciting thriller that takes place in the Greek Isles, U.S. and Europe that I thought did a fantastic job at making me feel like I was really there called “Cyclops Conspiracy” by author William McGinnis. It turns out that the author has a whitewater rafting company so when he describes sailing in Greece I could vividly picture it and even though the book is about terrorists smuggling in nuclear weapons this surprisingly scratched my itch for an international locale.

Curious, how do people usually read while travelling? A physical copy of the book or something like a Kindle? I, by far prefer reading physical books, though I wonder if second hand bookstores, book swapping, etc. with fellow travelers is a thing? On longer travels where I’d read more than 1 or 2 books, buying or carrying them with me is impractical. What do people usually do?

I also love a physical book, lots of places on the travel trail have second hand book stores and exchanges, still. If you’re in a particular area or country for a while, some book stores will buy the book back from you (tho for a lower price) if you keep it in good condition.

I’m late to this party, but readers might still appreciate the website Visit This Read That; a collaborative, crowd-sourced, effort, to determine what books best to read when visiting a place.

https://visitthisreadthat.com/

I would recommend Man Mission by Eytan Uliel, eytanuliel.com for his info. Got this for my husband who is not the biggest reader, just thought he might like it. He totally does, it’s clever and fun. He took it on a trip this week and said it’s hard not to want to just fly somewhere awesome and see it all!

This list is a treasure. Keep up the good work.

One of the greatest travellers of the modern era was Peter Penney who travelled mainly on foot with virtually no money. His travels took him from Europe to Australia on foot through Burma, right after WW2. His best books are “Dust on my shoes” and “Anywhere but here”. A not well known author Peter Penney has an innovative style of traveling with few resources, no passport and picking up food and money along the road. His playgrounds range from Africa which he traversed back and forth, Asia,the Pacific Islands, Australia, Papua New Guinea, etc. His books are a must read for anyone in love with travel, dry humour and adventure.

hey will, really liked your recommendations. however, just noted a small mistake, for the book absurdistan you are using the wrong book cover and the description is a straight copy paste from goodreads. I think for your readers (including me) it would be welcomed to hear about the book in your own words. Keep on doing what you are doing, I truly found your blog inspirational. Jan

Thanks Jan, I’ll look into that – some of these book descriptions were not added by me but my one of my other writers so maybe that’s the issue anyway 🙂

Will, it`s great list! love it.

about “The Alchemist” book…

This book was a life changing read for me. I was moved and spiritually uplifted by this remarkable story. I usually only read biographies and non-fiction stories, but this has become my favorite book because of the meaningful lessons that are taught throughout. I can’t say enough about this book other than the fact that my children will hear it over and over again and I believe every person should own this book.

Julie, https://www.julieannepeters.com/

Great recommendations here! I love a book that can help with my never-ending wanderlust. I have a historical fiction novel that should definitely be considered for this list called “The Jinn and The Sword” by authors Sara Cook and Robert Peacock. The book takes place during the 16th century imperial Ottoman court. There are some BEAUTIFUL descriptions of Istanbul and Venice. I really enjoyed the mental pictures the authors provided. Il Lupo, master swordswman, and his small posse crush an assassination attempt on the emperor and solve mysteries surrounding the theft of sacred relics. It is exciting, suspenseful, fun, and beautifully written. Check out the website for more info: http://www.thejinnandthesword.com/ Hope you will check it out!

I read “On the road” and was very impressed!

So many good books. Thank you for the list.

Ahhhh reading the Kite Runner in Pakistan = <3

Also, anything else by Khaled Hosseini, and The Alchemist are among my favourites!

I thought Shantaram was great, but frustrating in many ways…

‘Nice one Will!

I’ve read “Shantaram” a few times ‘cos it was just so inspiring and an exciting read! As well as “Just a Little Run Around the World.” I very much like the sound of “Honeymoon With My Brother: A Memoir.”

Have you ever read “Kevin and I in India” and “Rupee Millionaire” by Frank Kusy who is hilarious. In fact, I bought all his books! And “It’s on the Meter: One Taxi, Three Mates and 43,000 Miles of Misadventures around the World” a true story about three young British men who decide to travel the world in a London cabbie. It’s such a great read that not only did they make it, but they ended up breaking two world records along the way too!

I’ve read ‘its on the metre’, awesome book! 🙂

Good list mate. Shantaram and White Tiger enriched my experience in India for sure while of course Kerouac had a huge influence (Lonesome Traveller, Big Sur, Desolation Angels, Visions of Cody).. How about Jupiters Travels by Ted Simon.. he spends four years going 60,000 miles round the world on a Triumph in the 1970s. It’s epic and inspired me to travel in a big way. I read it twice. Also Ringolevio by Emmett Grogan, about the San Francisco Digger movement he helps put together after wild adventures in Europe. Good to see you spring back from that UK immigration dept pisstake and best of luck ….

Like you Will, I love to read books set in the country that I am travelling in. I love the feel of paper books but my kindle is more practical. I am looking forward to reading some of these from your list

Hi Will – A great list of books, many are personal favourites of mine. Would just like to add two follow up books of ones previously mentioned that might be of interset. Firstly, The Mountain Shadow, the follow up book to Shantaram (probably my favourite book). Obviously not as good as Shantaram but definitely worth a read. And secondly, Banco, the follow up book to Papillon, which details his adventures once he has found his freedom.

Will, if you didn’t know already, the film is out this year around April of Percy Fawcett and the lost city of Z. ,Was a great read and the film trailer looks awesome.

Holy shit but I did not know that, that is insanely exciting… thanks for telling me!

Can I add Marching Powder by Rusty Young for anyone going to Bolivia?!

Yes you most definitely can, epic book!

I am not fan reading while on travel, but I get interested with these books that you suggested. Gonna try this out.

Nice, a potential convert…happy reading on the road, Greg.

I love Bill Bryson! Check out Indonesian writer Agustinus Wibowo. His works have been translated into English. “Point Zero” is one of the best piece of travel literature I’ve ever read!

What a brilliant list! Some of the best books I’ve read and I imagine the rest are equally great. Thanks 🙂

Glad you like it, Jennie! More to come as I discover new favourites!

Great list – there’s lots I’m interested in reading. I completely disagree with Walking the Amazon, though. That book was very poorly written, which was so disappointing because it should be a fascinating story.

I would also suggest The Unconquered by Scott Wallace to learn about the uncontacted tribes in the Amazon. An incredible story.

For a book about South American, you can try to find ‘The Wizard of the Upper Amazon” which I read almost 40 years ago. About ayawasca and other jungle drugs.

Hi Will. Great site! Which book do you recommend to get ideas about places to visit? thanks 🙂

Hmmm… there’s a few around like ’50 places to visit before you die’ for example but really, it depends on what you want to see… I tend to do a bit of research online first and then simply pack my bag and head out on an adventure! 🙂

Hi – one of the books that inspired me when first travelling was Papillion – the tale of a French convict imprisoned on Devils Island off the coast of South America and his multiple escape attempts (sometimes to live with tribes in Venezuela) and solitary confinement for years on end. Also love the Tim Butcher books but my favourite African travel book is “Congo Journey” by Redmond O’Hanlon…he captures the Africa I know and love.

Papillion is now downloading to my kindle, it sounds absolutely awesome!! 🙂

there is also the film Dude, 1973 with Dustin Hoffman and Steve McQueen. You will probably love the bit when Stevie has to tattoo a tribesman using a mirror to copy the one on his chest. happy travels

I love this, a good book is so important on your travels! Which one is your favourite?

I always carry a copy of Illusions by Richard Bach…. Recently though, I read the Electric Cool Aid Acid Test – a great book, truly inspirational. I’m also a big fan of ‘Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know’ – Rannulph Fiennes is my hero! 🙂

I’m loving this list. Some excellent reads for the road on there. I particularly liked the underrated Travels on my elephant By Mark Shand. But dude I have a couple of bones to pick with you … How can you not include Notes from a small island, the Bryson classic!?! Or a single William Dalrymple book?! Time to update the list dude!

Hi man! There is Dalrymple in there! He’s one of my favourite writers around, I popped in ‘Nine Lives’ – a great book! Hmmm, it appears I did indeed miss out a Byron classic but you can’t have everything man; 50 is a shatteringly small number when it comes to trying to put every decent book up! 🙂

So many great books! Thanks for sharing – my Amazon wishlist just got a whole lot longer 🙂

I have actually read some of these. Many more to add to my to-read list.

This list is AMAZING!! Now to just get my hands on some of these titles while I am on the road…. hmmm… 🙂

Thanks Lina!! I’m currently working my way through a whole bunch of books on South America! Any recommendations?

51: Jupiter’s Travels 52: Dreaming of Jupiter

Thanks for the list; have read about half of them so time to crack on with the rest!

Shantaram has got to be one of the best books I’ve read so far! Love your blog and sorry about the Nepalese monster 🙂

Cheers Eve! I love Shantaram, I read it right before I headed to India and it somehow prepared me! Regarding the Nepalese monster… I still have the scar to tell of my tale down the pub!

I recently found the White Tiger on a book swap shelf. It’s such a great book!

I just discovered your blog today and have been really enjoying reading back though your articles. Thanks!

The white tiger was one of the first books I read whilst backpacking in India, it’s awesome -really describes the country well! Have you been to India yet?

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Travel with Books

Where the joy of travel and books meet!

Welcome to Travel with Books, a blog that bridges the gap between books and the locations that serve as their settings. Join us as we embark on a literary adventure, connecting the pages of beloved stories with the real-world places that inspired them. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, we’ll uncover the magic and significance of location in the books that we love.

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On the KAYAK app for iOS and Android you’ll find all the great travel offers found on the website and much more. There are special mobile rates and app only deals that allow you to save even more money. Plus, you can get notifications straight to your phone letting you know when prices for your next trip have dropped. But the KAYAK app is much more than just a travel app. Use the Trips function to manage your travel itinerary and get up to date status alerts on flights, check-in changes and to store your boarding pass. Even if you’re in the middle of nowhere on your travels, you can still access your travel notes via Trips, as no internet connection is required.

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KAYAK Trips creates a travel itinerary for you that will give you flight status alerts, can be shared with friends and more. Simply forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] or use the KAYAK app and sync your email account to keep all your travel plans organized in one app, even if you didn’t book with KAYAK. You can share your holiday plans with friends and family and also check out your travel stats for past vacations, like how far you’ve traveled, your most popular cities and how many times you’ve traveled around the world. Even if you don’t have signal, don’t worry, as you can access Trips to check out your itineraries whilst on the road. Your data is safe and secure with us and you won’t have to re-enter credit card info when booking future trips. If you want to make changes or cancel bookings, then you should contact the travel provider, which is provided on the booking confirmation.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

15 Travel Books That Will Give You Serious Wanderlust

The end of the year is just that time for favorites lists – and I’ve written about the best travel books many times over! I love talking about travel books. Why? Because part of the tool belt of any traveler is a good book. Long bus, train, or plane rides can get pretty boring and can give you a lot of “dead” time if you haven’t mastered the art of the 10-hour blank stare. Additionally, reading travel books helps you learn about the destinations you are visiting. The more you know about a place, the more you can understand a place.

I am a voracious reader and even used to have a book club on this website where I shared all the books I read. Today is another one of those days where I share some of the books I’ve read recently! If you’re looking for some great reads, here are my current list of the best travel books to inspire you to travel to far-off lands:  

1. The Alchemist , by Paulo Coelho

2. Love With a Chance of Drowning , by Torre DeRoche

3. The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca  by Tahir Shah

4. On the Road , by Jack Kerouac

5. Looking for Transwonderland , by Noo Saro-Wiwa

6. The Lost City of Z , by David Grann

7. The Beach , by Alex Garland

8. Vagabonding , by Rolf Potts

9. In A Sunburned Country , by Bill Bryson

10. Dispatches from Pluto , by Richard Grant

11. Turn Right at Machu Picchu , by Mark Adams

12. A Year of Living Danishly , by Helen Russell

13. The Art of Travel , by Alain de Botton

14. From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home , by Tembi Locke

BONUS: Ten Years a Nomad: A Traveler’s Journey Home , by me!

Books about travel inspire us to go visit far-off lands and imagine us doing incredible things. Bryson’s In a Sunburned Country inspired me to visit Australia! I hope these travel books inspire you to travel the world and feed your wanderlust. If you have any suggestions that I can add to this best travel books list, leave them in the comments.

If you’d like to see some of the other books I’ve recommended (or are currently reading), check out this page I created on Amazon that lists them all!

You can also find them listed in our Bookshop store, which helps support locally-owned bookstores. If you’re in the US, click here to check out my Bookshop store!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

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34 Best Travel Books That Will Take You All Around the World

No plane ticket required.

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These expansive reads range from scenic train trips in Kazakhstan ( Around the World in 80 Trains ) to romantic jaunts in Europe ( Under the Tuscan Sun ) to hiking treks ( Wild ). Vintage accounts like Freya Stark's excursion to Persia in the 1930s, or Beryl Markham's feat of aviation in 1936, capture a time when crossing an ocean was no easy task. Travel books by Black authors like Tembi Locke's Italy-set From Scratch or Overground Railroad by Candacy Taylor explore the intersection of race and voyaging. And gorgeous coffee table books from National Geographic and the New York Times will inspire constant wanderlust for everyone, whether you're a young adult looking to backpack or a retiree planning a long-awaited vacation.

These timeless travel books are as relevant in 2021 as they were when they were written, and they all have one thing in common: they'll take you on a journey and perhaps even change the way you see the world.

Due North by Lola Akinmade Åkerström

Lola Akinmade Åkerström has what many people would consider a dream job: She's an award-winning travel photographer and writer.  Due North  is a collection of all that she's learned. Amid spirited insights about destinations, Åkerström also gets personal about her experiences abroad as a Nigerian woman. "The more visa stamps in my passport, the more my motives for travel were deeply questioned," she writes. 

Clanlands: Whisky, Warfare, and a Scottish Adventure Like No Other by Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish

There are no better Scotland travel guides than the Scottish stars of one of TV's most Scottish series,  Outlander . In  the show  Men in Kilts , co-stars and off-screen friends  Sam Heughan  and Graham McTavish travel around their native country for the best off-the-beaten-path delights, historical insights, and Outlander  tie-ins.  This book is best enjoyed with a glass of scotch. 

Alone Time: Four Seasons, Four Cities, and the Pleasures of Solitude by Stephanie Rosenbloom

Alone Time  offers a reminder that the best travel companion is...you. In the memoir, Stephanie Rosenbloom documents solo trips across four cities: Paris, Istanbul, Florence, and New York. The book explores what it means to make peace with solitude. 

My Little Cities: Paris by Jennifer Adams

After reading this board book over (and over), your toddler will be better acquainted with the City of Light. Soon, they'll be asking for baguettes and saying merci. Follow this book up with other installments in the My Little Cities series, like New York and London . 

13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson

In this YA page-turner, Ginny receives an inheritance from her recently deceased aunt in the form of 13 envelopes, each naming a destination. What does Ginny's Aunt Peg want her to find? Combine the adventure of a scavenger hunt with the joy of travel, and you'll get this novel—which adults will enjoy, too.

Atlas Obscura: An Explorer's Guide to the World's Hidden Wonders

Every city has its list of must-sees. But what about the places that don't make any Top 10 list, and are all the more magnificent for it?  Atlas Obscura  is devoted to rounding up the world's hidden gems. 

This Way Back by Joanna Eleftheriou

Memoirist Joanna Eleftheriou spent her life traveling between the mountain village in Cyprus where her father was from and Queens, NY, where she went to high school.  This Way Back  is about the challenge of creating a sense of identity when you're from a place that has an identity crisis of its own: In 1974, following a Turkish invasion,  Cyprus was partitioned , with its Greek population confined to the island's southern portion and Turkish population to the north. 

World Travel: An Irreverent Guide by Anthony Bourdain and Laurie Woolever

For years, the late Anthony Bourdain was a tour guide to our world through shows like  No Reservations and  Parts Unknown . He espoused a kind of travel that was less about sight-seeing, and more about learning about and respecting the culture around you through food. This book compiles Bourdain's guidance for navigating his favorite cities, including Buenos Aires, New York, and Shanghai, as well as other destinations. 

Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 of the World's Greatest Trips

Journeys of a Lifetime  is the kind of book that will delight readers at any stage—because there's a trip for everyone. Retirees looking for their next adventure might enjoy some of the lengthier trips. Train across Europe, anyone?   

From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home by Tembi Locke

In this tear-jerker of a memoir, Tembi Locke—an actress who has appeared in  The Mentalist , Castle and Bones —recalls the defining relationship of her life. While she was studying abroad in Florence, Locke met Saro, a Sicilian chef, and fell in love almost instantly.  From Scratch is being adapted into a movie starring Zoe Saldana . 

All the Way to the Tigers: A Memoir by Mary Morris

Featured as a pick in  O , the Oprah Magazine's summer books round-up,  All the Way to the Tigers   is the refreshing literary answer to  Tiger King .  Mary Morris, author of the solo travel memoir  Nothing to Declare , documents her trek to India to get up-close-and-personal with striped felines. 

West with the Night by Beryl Markham

West With the Night  is a gripping tale set in a time when air travel itself was a death-defying act. Beryl Markham was the first person to fly solo over the Atlantic, leaving from England and surviving a crash-landing in Nova Scotia in 1936. She was also an adventurer, a horse trainer, an adrenaline-seeker—and as this memoir shows, an excellent writer. 

Falling Off the Map: Some Lonely Places of The World by Pico Iyer

Pico Iyer is one of the most acclaimed and prolific travel writers working today. Whether he's documenting trips to  Bombay or Japan , Iyer's observations are sharp. But  Falling Off the Map  has a special appeal: It's a humorous tour through some of the world's most remote places, which you may never see otherwise. 

Pocket Atlas of Remote Islands: Fifty Islands I Have Not Visited and Never Will by Judith Schalansky

Reading a book about travel is, indeed, a journey—but one of the mind. Cartographer Judith Schalansky's  Pocket Atlas of Remote Islands   pairs gorgeous illustrations to accompany each poetic description of a far-off island.

Overground Railroad: The Green Book and the Roots of Black Travel in America by Candacy Taylor

For Black motorists in the 20th century United States, taking a road trip was a dangerous proposition. Many businesses were closed to Black guests, while towns were hostile to Black visitors. Published between 1936 and 1966, the Green Book was a guide to friendly businesses throughout the country—and was an essential part of any road trip.  The Overground Railroad uses the lens of travel to tell a story about being Black in America. 

36 Hours: USA & Canada

This coffee table book will fuel your wanderlust, and may eventually lead to some weekend getaways. A compilation of the  New York  Times '  36 Hours column , the book gives off-the-beaten-path itineraries for short trips for cities around North America. You can also check out the Europe or world editions.  

Eurydice Street: A Place In Athens by Sofka Zinovieff

Sofka Zinovieff, a Brit, moves to her husband's native Athens to raise their two daughters. From her vantage point between cultures, Zinovieff can observe Greek customs as she participates in them.  Eurydice Street  is the honest and vivid portrait of life in modern Athens you may be missing on that tour of the Acropolis. 

Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed

With this memoir and Oprah's Book Club pick , Cheryl Strayed singlehandedly changed many people's associations of the word "wild." Now, when people say "wild," they picture Strayed hiking the Pacific Crest Trail after her life fell apart, and walking her way to wholeness. 

Footsteps: From Ferrante's Naples to Hammett's San Francisco, Literary Pilgrimages Around the World

Footsteps   is an anthology for bibliophiles and adventure-seekers alike. In each essay, a different writer explores their own relationship to a place—like L.M. Montgomery’s Prince Edward Island, and Elena Ferrante's Naples. 

The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World

The title says it all. Every two-page spread in  The Travel Book  is devoted to a different country. Part reference guide, part color-saturated coffee table book,  The Travel Book  makes for a gift that will be revisited. 

Elena Nicolaou is the former culture editor at Oprah Daily. 

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The Best Books of 2023

A Smithsonian magazine special report

The Ten Best Books About Travel of 2023

Take a trip without leaving home with these adventurous reads from this year

Laura Kiniry

Travel Correspondent

It’s often said that travel is all about the journey, whether it’s planning a remote island holiday or setting out on the adventure of a lifetime across the Arctic Ocean. But it can be almost as thrilling to roam the world from the comfort of our homes. Just take our pick of 2023 travel books, which include everything from humor-fueled essay collections and thought-provoking narratives to tomes brimming with full-page colorful photographs and tips on finding the most welcoming LGBTQ+ spots around the globe. They all share the uncanny ability to transport readers through time and space without ever having to open the front door.

Whether it’s a deep delve into a Balkan landscape of healing plants and foraging, or a more than 2,000-mile road trip through America’s racial history, here are ten travel books that are more than worthy of this year’s holiday wish lists.

Driving the Green Book: A Road Trip Through the Living History of Black Resistance by Alvin Hall

From 1936 to 1967, the Green Book served as an annual travel guide for African Americans, helping them to identify welcoming hotels, restaurants, gas stations and other businesses across the United States during the Jim Crow era. Compiled by Black New York City postman Victor Hugo Green , this essential reference publication included places like Manhattan’s Hotel Theresa , once considered the “Waldorf of Harlem,” and the Moulin Rouge Hotel in Las Vegas, frequented by celebrities like Harry Belafonte and Ella Fitzgerald during its five-month stint in 1955.

Award-winning broadcaster Alvin Hall first learned about the Green Book in 2015, and he was immediately intrigued. Several years later, he and a friend, activist Janée Woods Weber , set out on a 2,000-plus-mile cross-country road trip from Detroit to New Orleans, visiting many of the establishments once featured in the guide’s pages. (Harlem’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture has a nearly complete collection of the Green Book , which Hall utilized.) Along the way, Hall also gathered memories from some of the guide’s last surviving users.

The result, Driving the Green Book: a Road Trip Through the Living History of Black Resistance , is a poignant 288-page journey along America’s open roads, delving into the country’s racial past, detailing the Green Book ’s life-saving history and bringing it all together in one remarkable read.

Driving the Green Book: A Road Trip Through the Living History of Black Resistance

Join award-winning broadcaster Alvin Hall on a journey through America’s haunted racial past, with the legendary Green Book as your guide.

The Last Ride of the Pony Express: My 2,000-Mile Horseback Journey Into the Old West by Will Grant

In 2019, American journalist Will Grant embarked on a five-month, 2,000 mile journey on horseback from Missouri to California. His goal: to follow the historic route of the Pony Express , a legendary frontier mail system operating between April 1860 and October 1861, which used a series of horse-mounted riders and relay stations to deliver mail from one end to the other in just ten days. Although the express service went bankrupt after only 18 months, it remains an iconic symbol of America’s Old West.

Grant chronicles his 142-day adventure in The Last Ride of the Pony Express , a first-person narrative describing his trip across the Great Plains of Nebraska and the sagebrush steppe of Wyoming in the company of his two horses, Badger and Chicken Fry. While Grant reflects on the West’s modernization over time, it’s his vivid descriptions of the communities and local residents—including ranchers, farmers and migrant sheep herders—along the way that make the book a real page-turner.

The Last Ride of the Pony Express: My 2,000-mile Horseback Journey into the Old West

The Last Ride of the Pony Express is a tale of adventure by a horseman who defies most modern conveniences, and is an unforgettable narrative that will forever change how you see the West, the Pony Express, and America as a whole.

Unforgettable Journeys Europe: Discover the Joys of Slow Travel

The latest in the Unforgettable Journeys series by DK Eyewitness, a publisher of nonfiction books known for its visual travel guides, Unforgettable Journeys Europe highlights the notion that travel really is all about the “getting there.” This inspirational tome details 150 of Europe’s best slow adventures, such as kayaking through Lithuania and crossing the Arctic Circle by train.

The bucket list is organized by modes of transportation, with sections titled “By Bike” and “By Rail,” for example. Illustrations, photos, maps and plenty of practical information (including start and end points for trails, difficulty ratings and website links) are then spread throughout the text, making the book as much colorful reference as it is inspiring read. In the “On Foot” chapter, there’s a description of Scotland’s Fife Pilgrim Way , a 56-mile trek along an ancient pilgrim route with cathedral and countryside views. Along with details on what to see during the multiday hike, the book features a selection of highlighted tips, like what to do (pick wild berries while passing through Clatto Reservoir ) and how to splurge (dinner and an overnight stay at the cozy, Michelin-starred Peat Inn ) en route.

Unforgettable Journeys Europe: Discover the Joys of Slow Travel (Dk Eyewitness)

Inspirational travel book covering 150 of Europe's most incredible journeys, including routes on foot and by bike, road, rail and water.

Elixir: In the Valley at the End of Time by Kapka Kassabova

After a decade of living in the Scottish Highlands, native Bulgarian Kapka Kassabova returned to her roots in southwestern Bulgaria’s remote Mesta Valley, a rural region known for its array of wild crops and their vast medicinal properties. Over several seasons (Kassabova’s move occurred at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic), the poet and writer set out to study the deep relationship between the area’s people and plants, as well as with the land itself. Her resulting text—with chapters like “Pine Syrup,” “Honey Sellers” and “Shepherd’s Superfood”—is an autobiographical exploration of one of the globe’s lesser-known corners, one brimming with forages, healers and a wealth of folk traditions.

“ Elixir is the vibrant, beautiful story of a singular, remarkable place,” writes Foreword book reviewer Catherine Thureson. “It issues a call to reclaim the physical, emotional and spiritual connection between humanity and the natural world.”

Elixir: In the Valley at the End of Time

In Elixir , in a wild river valley and amid the three mountains that define it, Kapka Kassabova seeks out the deep connection between people, plants, and place.

The Life Cycle by Kate Rawles

British writer and cyclist Kate Rawles has a penchant for raising awareness about environmental challenges through her own adventures—and inspiring action in the process. In 2006, Rawles cycled 4,553 miles from Texas to Alaska , interviewing Americans about climate change along the way. Her latest endeavor—an 8,288-mile, 13-month journey across the length of the Andes Mountains on a self-built bamboo bicycle she nicknamed “Woody”—is the basis for her new book, The Life Cycle .

During this largely solo endeavor in 2017 and 2018, the author crossed some of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems, including South America’s Atacama Desert and the Bolivian salt flats. Simultaneously, she found herself witnessing the devastating effects of extreme biodiversity loss caused by industries such as logging and gold mining, and met with activists and communities working to regenerate these habitats—sharing their concerns and insight throughout the narrative.

The Life Cycle: 8,000 Miles in the Andes by Bamboo Bike

Pedalling hard for thirteen months, eco adventurer Kate Rawles cycled the length of the Andes on an eccentric bicycle she built herself. The Life Cycle charts her mission to find out why biodiversity is so important, what's happening to it, and what can be done to protect it.

Unravelling the Silk Road by Chris Aslan

An extremely well-researched story of three ancient trade routes that helped define a continent, Chris Aslan’s Unravelling the Silk Road “merges trauma with textiles to track the past and present experiences of the people of Central Asia,” writes author Clare Hunter . He explores the roles played by wool, a textile used by the region’s nomads for both yurts and clothing; silk, a commodity that was once more valuable than gold; and cotton, the cause of Russian and then Soviet colonization, since it provided cheap material for the global superpower.

Turkish-born Aslan interweaves his own personal experiences (the author once picked cotton with locals and worked with nomadic yak herders in Central Asia’s Pamir Mountains) with the history of each route and its impact on the lives of local residents ​​ —as well as the region itself. Aslan also examines how political and cultural changes are affecting new trade routes and the people who depend on them.

Unravelling the Silk Road: Travels and Textiles in Central Asia

Veteran traveler and textile expert Chris Aslan explores the Silk, Wool and Cotton Roads of Central Asia.

The Half Known Life: In Search of Paradise​​ by Pico Iyer

British-born essayist and acclaimed writer Pico Iyer is no stranger to travel journalism. The author—whose childhood was divided among English, Indian and U.S. cultures—is known for works like 1989’s Video Night in Kathmandu , a stark look at modern Asia, and The Global Soul , a 2001 collection of essays on finding home in a world of international airports and shopping malls. For more than 40 years, Iyer has traveled the globe, reflecting on the planet and our role within it.

“After years of travel, I’d begun to wonder what kind of paradise can ever be found in a world of unceasing conflict,” writes Iyer in his latest book, The Half Known Life: In Search of Paradise , “and whether the very search for it might not simply aggravate our differences.” The result is a retrospective look at his own travels and encounters—from North Korea’s capital city of Pyongyang to Jerusalem’s Ethiopian chapels—through the idea of “paradise,” what it means and whether it exists.

The Half Known Life: In Search of Paradise

Traveling from Iran to North Korea, from the Dalai Lama’s Himalayas to the ghostly temples of Japan, Pico Iyer brings together a lifetime of explorations to upend our ideas of utopia and ask how we might find peace in the midst of difficulty and suffering.

The Pride Atlas: 500 Iconic Destinations for Queer Travelers by Maartje Hensen

Big, bold and colorful, The Pride Atlas is a valuable resource for LGBTQ+ folks and their allies, as well as a perfect coffee table topper. Compiled by queer author and photographer Maartje Hensen , its 400 pages are brimming with eye-catching photos and practical information, such as websites like Meetup and Couchsurfing that are useful for connecting with similarly minded locals and travelers, and resources regarding laws and cultural attitudes worldwide.

At the heart of the book are 500 destinations from around the globe, each one of them highlighting a way of engaging with LGBTQ+ culture. You’ll find drag shows, Pride parades, campsites, microbrew pubs and other places, from San Francisco’s Transgender District to Haircuts for Anyone , an inclusive and affirmative hair salon in Montreal that charges by sliding scale.

“Hopefully,” writes Hensen, “ The Pride Atlas expands your horizons and inspires you to go out into the world, to (un)learn from others … because, like gender, the world doesn’t fit into binary.” Indeed.

The Pride Atlas: 500 Iconic Destinations for Queer Travelers

Combining immersive photography with expertly researched travel writing, this is the ultimate guidebook for LGBTQ+ travelers—whether you're planning your next getaway, daydreaming from the comfort of your armchair, or seeking to learn about queer culture in other parts of the world.

Airplane Mode: An Irreverent History of Travel by Shahnaz Habib

An enlightening and entertaining debut essay collection by a U.S.-based Indian Muslim author, Airplane Mode brings a unique and under-represented perspective to the world of travel. Shahnaz Habib approaches such topics as the origins of passports, colonial modes of thinking about travel—like safaris and pilgrimages—and terms like “pseudiscovery,” which she uses to describe an explorer’s claim of discovering something that’s existed for thousands of years, with both wit and curiosity, incorporating her own personal narratives to boot.

Perhaps Annabel Abbs, author of Windswept: Walking the Paths of Trailblazing Women , says it best in her praise for Airplane Mode, which has been long-listed for the Andrew Carnegie Medals for Excellence . She calls it “a fascinating, wide-ranging and insightful travelogue that poses some of the biggest questions of all: Who gets to travel, and what is it that makes us so keen to travel in the first place?”

Airplane Mode: An Irreverent History of Travel

This witty personal and cultural history of travel from the perspective of a Third World-raised woman of color, Airplane Mode , asks: what does it mean to be a joyous traveler when we live in the ruins of colonialism, capitalism and climate change?

Oh My Mother!: A Memoir in Nine Adventures by Connie Wang

The closest Chinese expression to “Oh, my god” is wode ma ya , which literally translates to “Oh, my mother.” It’s a declaration of astonishment, as well as the title for journalist Connie Wang ’s humorous and heartfelt book, Oh My Mother!: A Memoir in Nine Adventures . Wang details the complicated relationship between herself and her stubborn and “wildly opinionated” mother, Qing Li, across nine essays, taking readers from time-share properties in Cancun and Aruba to a Magic Mike strip show in Las Vegas. “This is our memoir—a long personal essay, if you will—and it was forged through shared fact-checking,” Wang writes in the book. “Qing was the first person to read each chapter as it was written, and she is this book’s first editor.” According to Kirkus Reviews , the author “drives to the heart of how a daughter comes to know her mother as someone with a life beyond motherhood.”

Oh My Mother!: A Memoir in Nine Adventures

A dazzling mother-daughter adventure around the world in pursuit of self-discovery, a family reckoning, and Asian American defiance

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Laura Kiniry | READ MORE

Laura Kiniry is a San Francisco-based freelance writer specializing in food, drink, and travel. She contributes to a variety of outlets including American Way , O-The Oprah Magazine , BBC.com , and numerous AAA pubs.

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30 Best Travel Books to Inspire The Wanderer in You

Written By: The Planet D

Inspiration

Updated On: January 7, 2024

The best way I know how to spark my wanderlust is to get inspiration from great travel books. My favorite travel books cover everything from a life changing experience to overcoming adversity. They make me laugh out loud and inspire me to explore the world. These books don’t focus on one theme they focus on many. So get your Kindle ready and start downloading today!

Table of Contents

Best Travel Books to Explore the World

In this article, we wanted to share some of the best travel books that made me laugh, made me cry, and inspired me to get out and travel around the world.

Disclosure: If you click the links below and make a purchase from Amazon, we do receive a referral commission at no extra cost to you.

1. Masked Rider by Neil Peart

Many people know him as a massively talented drummer from  Rush . But what they do not realize is that Neil Peart was not only one of the greatest drummers in the history of music , he was also an avid cyclist. Sadly, Peart died of cancer, but through his music and travelogue and travel books his genius lives on. (yes he has more than )

Masked Rider is an honest and undisguised account of his time cycling in West Africa. It’s a must read for anyone who wants to go on a great adventure. Neil Peart lets us see the man behind the rock star and he makes us realize that superstars are people too. Purchase Masked Rider – Neil Peart on Amazon

2. Finding Gobi by Dion Leonard

If you love dogs, this is one of the best adventure travel books you’ll read to make you smile. Ultramarathon runner Dion Leonard traveled to China with one thing on his mind; to finish on the podium of a 155-mile race through the Gobi desert.

Follow the story of Leonard, whose heart is warmed by the persistence of a stray dog that kept pace through heat and exhaustion for 70 miles. See how Leonard is transformed from a focused veteran to a man that gives up what little food he has in his pack to share with the stray dog that he named, Gobi. Buy Finding Gobi – Dion Leonard on Amazon.com to see what happens next

3. American Shaolin by Matthew Polly

A regular American guy, Matthew Polly recounts his time living, studying, and performing with the Shaolin monks in China. This is one bizarre and hilarious travel memoir about fulfilling your dreams. Follow along as Matthew drops out of Princeton to pursue his ambitions of transforming his scrawny physique into that of a kung fu master.

He tells tales of breaking into the secret world of Shaolin Kung Fu which has strange disciplines like “The Iron Crotch” and other various indestructible body parts. I seriously think this is also one of the funnest travel books to read out there. Check out American Shaolin – Matthew Polly today.

4. Crazy Rich Asians – Kevin Kwan

The movie took the world by storm and it is one of the few travel books that translates to screen beautifully. Peek behind the looking glass of the secretive billionaire families that have more money than Vladimir Putin.

Follow along as Rachel joins her boyfriend in Singapore on a summer holiday only to find out that her humble boyfriend is Asia’s most eligible bachelor and everyone (including his mother) is out to tear them apart.

This is one of the best travel books based in Asia depicting the unique culture of Singaore. Read Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan now.

5. White Tiger – Aravind Adiga

White Tiger tells of a dirty and unforgiving India, an India that doesn’t allow people to claw their way out of their Caste. It is now a movie on Netflix. I haven’t watched it yet but if it’s good you can be sure I’ll add it to my favorite travel movies.

This was one of those travel books that neither of us could put down and a book that we feel is a must read for everyone  traveling to India.   Those who have spent their time in an Ashram or driving around the country in an organized tour isolated from the truth won’t like it. But, like one review said, “This is the book that India Tourism doesn’t want you to read.” Get White Tiger by Aravind Adiga on Amazon.

6. The Beach by Alex Garland

Let me set one thing straight, I hated the movie The Beach, but I loved the book by Alex Garland. The Beach captures what travel was like in Thailand way back in the 1990s. (trust me, we were there). This is one of the first travel books we read that really brought us back. toa place we had been to.

The rooms in Thai guesthouses were disgusting, and the streets were filled with backpackers seeking adventure while escaping the world drinking cheap beer. There were still undiscovered coves and beaches that nobody had heard of, and there were probably several drug kingpins running the land.

Visiting Thailand for the first time is still a great adventure and this is a must read anyone going to the land of Smiles for the very first time! The Beach by Alex Garland is available on Amazon.

7. In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson

Bill Bryson is the king of writing travel books that make you laugh our loud. Anything by Bill Bryson is a winner, but my personal favorite memoir by Bryson is “In a Sunburned Country”. This was the first book I read by Bryson and it inspired me to read them all! I laughed out loud.

Written at a time when the world was still getting to know Australia, it shows the quirkiness of the island country and makes you want to book a ticket to see it for yourself. If you pick up any book by Bill Bryson, you won’t be sorry but, In a Sunburned Country is our favorite.

Go Around the World with Bill Bryson:

• A Walk in the Woods – Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail spanning the Eastern Coast.
• A Stranger to Myself – Notes on Returning to America After 20 Years Away
• The Best American Travel Writing
• The Road to Little Dribbling – An American in Britain

8. Dave Barry Does Japan

He may be old school when it comes to mentioning travel books and authors, but Dave Barry is hilarious. It was Dave Barry who sparked my love for travel writing and how powerful, funny, and inspiring it could be.

I never thought I’d become a travel writer, but I loved reading about his escapades around the world. He explains Japanese traditions through humor and experiences at karaoke bars, geisha encounters, kabuki theatre, and confusing comedy clubs. Japan is still very confusing even today so it is worth a read. Check out Dave Barry Does Japan and have a great laugh today.

9. Love Africa by Jeffrey Gettleman

Love Africa tells the story of Jeffry Gettleman the East Africa bureau chief for the New York Times. It begins with his first trip to Africa when he volunteered and fell in love with the continent.

But he kept being called back to the United States to his other love, his girlfriend Courtenay who is a criminal defense lawyer. Follow along as he navigates his career as a journalist, to his love for Africa and his true love relationship with Courtenay. We know how Africa can tug at your heart.

Can you have it all? Read and follow along on this travel memoir through Africa, because we’re not giving it away. Buy Love Africa by Jeffrey Gettleman on Amazon.

10. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

It’s an oldie but a goodie. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is the story of a shepherd boy named Santiago who sells his flock and purchases a ticket to Tangier, where he is robbed and must work at a shop to find his way home.

At the heart of the book lies Santiago who embarks on a quest to find his true purpose in life. As he encounters a series of characters and navigates the challenges of the journey, Santiago learns valuable lessons about faith and perseverance.

“The Alchemist” is a book that invites readers to reflect on their own lives and aspirations. Coelho’s emphasis on listening to one’s heart, embracing the unknown, and overcoming fear resonate deeply, inspiring readers to question their own paths and pursue their personal legends with courage and determination.

He ends up taking a great adventure across the Sahara and after all his adventures, discovers his fortune right back where he started. I read this book before we started traveling full time and it put me in the mood to wander. And to appreciate life.

I think The Alchemist was the catalyst for my dream of becoming a travel writer and taking the leap to explore the world. This book taught me that you don’t need to go far to discover the beauty in life. Buy the Alchemist on Amazon

11. A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah

This no-holds-barred autobiography of a child soldier, Ishmael Beah, is gripping.  A Long Way Gone tells how an innocent child can be forced into savage warfare in Sierra Leone. It may not belong in your typical travel books listing, but it is something that people should read and know about.

Having lost everything including his family, his home, and his soul, Ishmael tells of his journey to evade the military. For three years he hid in the jungle and half-starved to death. It recounts the fear and despair he felt each day until he was finally captured by the government army.

Hopped up on drugs, he was forced to commit unthinkable acts. This is a story of going to hell and back, living a life of revenge and violence. He was rescued by UNICEF but it was a long and painful rehabilitation. Read A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah

12. The Bang Bang Club – Greg Marinovich & Jaoa Silva

Set in Apartheid-Era South Africa, the  Bang Bang Club  is a true account telling the tale of the four photojournalists that dared to enter the townships and document history as it was happening.

It was written by two surviving journalists Greg Marinovich & Jaoa Silva Heartbreaking and shocking, the Bang Bang Club doesn’t hold back when telling of the brutality of that time.

The photographers had to come to terms with their own demons and what they witnessed day in and day out as war correspondence reporters. Their photos made history and set new standards, earning a Pulitzer Prize for two of the photographers. Get Your Copy of The Bang Bang Club – Greg Marinovich & Jaoa Silva

13. The Girl in the Picture – Vietnam

During the Vietnam War, photographer Nick Ut captured the shocking photo of children running from a napalm blast. Kim Phuc was the center of that photograph, with her naked body covered in severe burns. It became known as “the photo of the century” winning the Pulitzer Prize

In her own words, Kim tells her story of what happened to “The Girl in the Picture” Read the fascinating tale as she journeys from Vietnam eventually landing in Canada where she faced many hardships along the way. This book not only showed me what it was like for Phuc, but taught me about communism in Vietnam and what it took to break away. The Girl in the Picture – Vietnam

14. Touching the Void – Joe Simpson

Joe Simpson recalls his harrowing climb of Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes back in 1985 with Simon Yates. Disaster struck after their summit when Joe fell into a crevasse and broke his leg (very badly).

We love adventure travel, but this is an entirely new level. The book stands the test of time as Joe recalls the three days he spent trying to get down the mountain after a near fatal fall and what he had to endure along the say. It was also  made into a movie  in 2003. Touching the Void – Joe Simpson

15. Into Thin Air – Jon Krakauer

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer is a gripping and harrowing firsthand account of the tragic 1996 Mount Everest disaster. As an acclaimed travel writer and mountaineer, Krakauer brings his expertise and storytelling prowess to this unforgettable true story that resonates with readers long after the final page.

Krakauer’s ability to convey the physical and emotional challenges faced by climbers on the world’s highest peak is unparalleled. I couldn’t put this book down. Krakauer captures the essence of the mountaineering experience, immersing readers in the awe-inspiring beauty and perilous nature of Everest that inspired us to visit Everest Base Camp.

Krakauer candidly reflects on his own role and decisions during the ill-fated expedition, providing a raw and introspective narrative that adds depth and authenticity to the book. His vulnerability and willingness to share the emotional toll of the tragedy make the story even more compelling.

We’ve been to  Mount Everest Base Camp  and it was exciting to read about a place that we’ve been to and retrace steps through Namche Bazaar, the Tengboche Monks, and the Sherpa monuments to those who have fallen. Into Thin Air – Jon Krakauer

Into the Wild by John Krakauer

We go directly to another John Krakauer. As a travel writer, Krakauer goes beyond mere adventure storytelling and has a knack for delving into the complexities of human nature and Into the Wild certainly does that.

Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer is a captivating and introspective exploration of the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who abandoned civilization to embark on a solitary adventure in the Alaskan wilderness. It begins with a typical road trip across the country and then takes a turn.

Through interviews, personal anecdotes, and McCandless’s own writings, Krakauer pieces together the motivations, struggles, and ideals that led him to seek solace and freedom in the untamed wilderness.examining his desire for self-discovery, his rejection of societal norms, and his yearning for a simpler existence. Krakauer offers insights into the allure of the wild and the inner turmoil of a young man searching for meaning and transcendence.

The book delves into the complexities of McCandless’s character, and Krakauer’s skillful storytelling and introspective analysis allow readers to appreciate the complexities of his subject, even if they do not completely align with McCandless’s actions. Read it now.

16. Dark Star Safari – Paul Theroux

Paul Theroux is one of the Greatest modern travel writers of our time. And he has written many classics such as Mosquito Coast and the Great Railway Bazaar, but our favorite travel book by Paul Theroux is Dark Star Safari.

Dave and I started our travel adventures cycling from Cairo to Cape Town and Dark Star Safari takes Theroux overland as he revisits the continent but he was on a road trip (not bicycle). This book took us back to Africa and brought back all the feelings we had – the good, bad, the ugly, and the depressing parts that we forget.

Through his vivid account, sharp wit, and introspective reflections he brings to life the people, places, and complexities he encounters along the way from Cairo to Cap Town. From bustling cities to remote villages, readers are transported to the heart of Africa, experiencing the triumphs, hardships, beauty and every day life that define the continent.

What we like about Dark Star Safar, is how he shows the less glamorous aspects of travel. He confronts the realities of poverty, political instability, and cultural clashes, providing a nuanced and balanced perspective of Africa. Through his encounters with locals, aid workers, and fellow travelers, he unveils the complexities and contradictions that exist within each country and challenges common stereotypes. See our Cairo to Cape Town adventures at It All Began in Egypt: Cycling a Continent

Get Dark Star Safari – Paul Theroux on Amazon

17. Wild – From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed

Adventure travel can be transformational. When taking on a challenge, it is an emotional roller coaster. I’ve definitely been there with negative and productive thoughts and regrets. But as at the end of any grand adventure, the struggle can be healing and you can come out triumphant.

One of the most successful travel books (it always is when turned into a movie right?) focuses on the journey of the author along the Pacific Crest Trail while she navigates the physical and emotional challenges of hiking over a thousand miles in search of healing and self-discovery.

At the heart of the book lies Strayed’s emotional and psychological journey. As she grapples with grief, loss, and personal demons, she confronts her own vulnerabilities and gradually finds strength and resilience. Her candid exploration and raw honesty of her past mistakes, relationships, and the complexities of human nature is both relatable and inspiring.

Follow along as Cheryl Strayed faces her demons and struggles her way along the way. You can purchase Wild – Lost and Found on The Pacific Crest Trail. On Amazon here.

18. A Woman Alone: Travel Tales from Around the Globe

A Woman Alone: Travel Tales from Around the Globe is an anthology that celebrates the spirit of solo female travel. Edited by Faith Conlon, Ingrid Emerick, and Christina Henry de Tessan, this collection of personal narratives showcases the empowering and transformative experiences of women who have ventured out into the world on their own.

Solo female travelers will love this travel book. The book features a diverse range of stories from women of various backgrounds and destinations, offering a mosaic of perspectives and travel experiences. From exploring bustling cities to traversing remote landscapes, readers are treated to a rich tapestry of cultures, encounters, and adventures.

The anthology captures the essence of travel, going beyond mere descriptions of destinations to delve into the transformative power of exploration. A Woman Alone: Travel Tales from Around the Globe is an empowering and inspirational read for both seasoned travelers and those dreaming of embarking on their first solo adventure.

Get it on Amazon

19. 1,000 Places to See Before You Die by Patricia Schultz

1,000 Places to See Before You Die  is the original brainchild of the talented and wonderful Patricia Schultz. If you have a serious case of wanderlust to travel around the world, buy this travel book by Patricia Schultz. This travel book makes for a great gift!

Many travelers are always looking for inspiration and there is an endless supply here. I’ve taken my Sharpie Marker and gone through all the destinations around the globe that she recommends. 1,000 Places to See Before You Die is the world’s best selling travel book. I wish I had thought of this idea. If you are a collector of travel books, you need to have this in your library.

20. Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

I read Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert while traveling through India, so it certainly reminds me of my travels there. It is the real life story of Elizabeth Gilbert finding herself after divorce.

I didn’t identify with India (pray) part of the book since I was there at the time, but I could definitely get on board with eating through Italy and finding love in Bali. Many travelers love following in the footsteps of Eat Pray Love and why not? Who doesn’t want to run away from it all, find themselves, fall in love and write a book about it?

21. Grand Adventures by Alastair Humphreys

Grand Adventures is written by National Geographic Adventurer of the Year Alastair Humphreys. We first heard of Alastair while he was cycling around the world and were inspired so much by him, we followed his bike peddles to cycling Africa. This book round up the world’s most grand adventures to inspire you to try your own. (We make an appearance or two from one of our adventures around the globe as well.)

22. Concierge Confidential by Michael Fazio

Concierge Confidential by Michael Fazio gives the inside scoop from behind the scenes of the rich and famous. He was New York’s top concierge and he shares stories and secrets from the madness of catering to the elite. From the ridiculous demands to having to get people in to anywhere possible, it’s an at times hilarious read.

I wouldn’t want his job for the world, but it is fun to take a peek inside the secret life of a concierge. One of the more unconventional travel books since it’s from the perspective of the Concierge getting travelers their every whim, it still transports you to another place.

23. Ontario Escapes by Jim Buyers

Ontario Escapes is written by Veteran journalist and top travel writer in Canada, Jim Byers. He shares his personal experiences and tips for traveling around Ontario Canada.

As a native Ontario resident, I found so many hidden gems in this book offering great Ontario travel tips and ideas. I love Jim’s writing style as he shares practical information with inspiring personal stories and recommendations.

24. Ultimate Journeys for Two by Mike and Anne Howard

Ultimate Journeys for Two was written by our friends Mike and Anne Howards Mike who are currently on the world’s longest honeymoon. And you can find us there too talking about Greenland travel!

This travel book is more of an account of a bunch of couples giving advice and snippits about a place. Its more of a travel reference giving people travel ideas to inspire couples to go out and see the world and have a great adventure. There are ideas for couples to travel on every continent!

25. How to Travel the World on $50 a Day – Matt Kepnes

How to Travel the World on $50 a Day by Matt Kepnes shares money-saving tips on transportation, food, beverages, accommodation, and airline tickets, it’s the how-to guide for twenty-something budget travelers. Nomadic Matt has parlayed his highly successful travel blog into a best selling travel book on the New York Times’ best sellers list.

While I’m not sure if you really can travel for $50 a day in today’s world, it is still a good reference for budget travel and budget tips and advice.

26. Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2023

If you are looking for good travel guide books while traveling we recommend Lonely Planet. It is still our go-to travel book to help plan our adventures.

Lonely Planet was once often referenced as “The Bible of Travel.” Dave and I never booked a trip without buying a lonely planet country guide. While travel blogs have taken away a lot of travel guide book revenue, the Lonely Planet is still highly regarded. And you can never Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel series. Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2023 follows the formula of the previous Best in Travel series.

Published annually, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel showcases the top destinations, experiences, and trends around the world, curated by travel experts. What are the top destinations for 2023? You’ll have to purchase it to find out.

Here’s a cool fact, we named The Planet D after The Lonely Planet in 2007. We were so inspired by the Lonely Planet travel books that when trying to think of a name for our travel blog, we simply took off the lonely, and added a “D” Plus, the Lonely Planet is what inspired me to get into travel writing. It was my dream to write for them one day.

Get the Lonely Planet Best of 2023 on Amazon Here

27. The Innocents Abroad by Mark Twain

Mark Twain’s “Innocents Abroad” takes readers on a delightful through Europe and the Holy Land aboard his voyage in a retired Civil War ship (the USS Quaker City). Why do we love it? Well, this travelogue, first published in 1869, offers a unique perspective on the experiences of American tourists during the mid-19th century.

Twain’s witty and satirical writing style shines throughout the book, making it an enjoyable and entertaining read. While the book is primarily a humorous account of his journey, it also delves into deeper themes and critiques of society. Twain reflects on the idiosyncrasies of human nature, the follies of tourism, and the stark contrasts between cultures.

It is worth noting that Innocents Abroad can be a dense read at times, particularly for readers who are not familiar with the historical context or the locations mentioned. Twain occasionally includes lengthy digressions and references to classical literature, which might require additional effort from the reader to fully appreciate. Get it on Amazon

28. Right Turn at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams

Right Turn at Machu Picchu is a travel memoir by Mark Adams that weaves together history, archaeology, and personal discovery as Adams retraces the footsteps of Hiram Bingham III, the explorer who rediscovered the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Blending his own travel experiences and encounters with informative and fascinating insights into the history and culture of the Incas creates an infectious story where readers will find themselves eagerly turning the pages to uncover the secrets of Machu Picchu.

One of the book’s strengths lies in Adams’ ability to convey the awe-inspiring beauty and mystique of the Peruvian landscape. With a modern travel writing tone, Adams transports readers through the rugged terrain, lush jungles, and awe-inspiring ruins that make up the region surrounding Machu Picchu.

It even provides a wealth of historical and archaeological information, offering a deeper understanding of the site’s significance. See reviews and purchase it on Amazon

29. This Contested Land: The Storied Past and Uncertain Future of America’s National Monuments by McKenzie Long

A new addition to our best travel books article is This Contested Land: by Mckenzie Long delves into the history and complex issues surrounding America’s national monuments. (Shall we talk about Mount Rushmore anyone?)

Long sheds light on America’s national monuments including their creation, significance, and the ongoing debates surrounding their management. Through modern travel writing, Long explores the intertwined narratives of nature conservation, cultural preservation, and the conflicting interests that have shaped these sites.

This Contested Land does not shy away from exploring the controversies and conflicts surrounding national monuments. Long examines the various stakeholders involved, including local communities, indigenous groups, environmentalists, and commercial interests. By presenting multiple perspectives, the book encourages readers to contemplate the intricate balance between preservation, public access, and economic development.

This Contested Land serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in America’s national monuments and the broader debates surrounding land conservation and cultural heritage. Check it out

30. In The Kingdom of Men by Kim Barnes

Kim Barnes takes readers on a mesmerizing journey into the heart of Arabia with her novel, “In The Kingdom of Men.” Set in 1960s Saudi Arabia, Barnes’ paints vivid prose of the desert landscape, transporting readers to a world of contrasts and contradictions in the Middle East. From the vast expanses of sand dunes to the opulent palaces and bustling markets, the setting becomes as much a character as the individuals who navigate its complexities.

The protagonist, Gin McPhee, a young American woman thrown into the unfamiliar Saudi Arabian culture, brings a fresh perspective to the narrative. As she grapples with the oppressive societal norms and her own desires for independence, readers are drawn into her struggle and resilience.

Barnes skillfully explores the clash between tradition and modernity, particularly through the lens of gender dynamics and the stark divide between the Western expatriates and the local Saudi community of the Middle East. She delves into the intricate web of power, politics, and cultural tensions, illuminating the challenges faced by those who seek to bridge these divides. Get it on Amazon

So have these travel books inspired you to go around the globe? What is the best travel adventure you’ve ever read? If you have other travel books to share, leave them in the comments below, we are always looking for good reads.

Read Next: 

• Best Travel Movies to Inspire Wanderlust 
• Best Travel Tips from 20 Years of Traveling
• Best Travel Songs to Rock the Long Drive
• 48 Best Travel Movies to Inspire Wanderlust
• 40 Best Gifts for Travelers That they will love
• 20 Best Motorcycle Movies and TV Shows To Inspire Wanderlust

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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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65 thoughts on “30 Best Travel Books to Inspire The Wanderer in You”

Doing great job man… Keep it up.

Wonderful list. This is what I was searching for. Thanks for doing the hard research for me.

Awesome list. Thanks for sharing. It’s really very useful.

Thanks for sharing!

These are very interesting books about travel, I had the opportunity to read some of them. very nice

I can’t wait to read more of these books! Reading has always been one way that I keep my wanderlust alive and well.

I was just searching for some good books which can take me into the world of wanderlust. As expected, you are on the internet with your awesome experience. I would love to read all of them. The Alchemist I have done and I am approaching other ones from now onwards. Thanks for sharing this post.

Very useful thing for those who like traveling. Thanks for sharing this with us,

Love those books… thanks for sharing Regards! Thank You!

Michael Palin’s Pole to Pole and Levison Woods Walking the Himalayas!

The only book in this list that I have read (partly) is Eat Pray Love but I also didn’t love it! I was actually in Bali when I started it and it just didn’t grab me, but I’ll definitely be trying out some others on this list! A good book on holiday can do wonders!

I hope to get my hands on Eat, Pray, Love soon. It must be a great read coz it’s on every travel books list.

Wonderful collection. I was in deep search. Thanks a lot to write about these books.

Thanks, Actually I am searching these collection from so many times. Great !!

Thanks for sharing. I was actually not aware about Michael Crichton’s book. Great list of books, I better start reading.

Lot’s of new books for me to add to my list! Thank you! I loved In A Sunburned Country, I consider it one of my favourite travel books and it definitely encouraged me to travel to Australia where I am now!

Thanks, guys some great books there. Think I need to get my hands on Dave does Japan. I am hoping to visit next year.

My all time favourite travel book that I never seen included on any lists is called WorldWalk by Steven Newman. In his early 20s, over a period of 4 years, Steven walked around the world relying on the kindness of strangers. This was the mid-1980s well before the time of internet and mobile phones being common place. His book is inspirational and entertaining and eye-opening all at once. I can’t recommend it enough.

it is very helpful for me like a traveler

An amazing list of books. I watched the film Eat Pray Love (starring Julia Roberts, maybe) but never took the time to read the book. THis list inspired me.

I think one books may be worth adding is Vagabonding.

I just want to say “wow” you have an amazing collection of books.

I was looking for a list like this! I just finished reading a series of books for foodies and Eat Pray Love was one of them. Thanks for sharing yours! Concierge Confidential seems like an interesting read.

thanks for sharing

i have planning to travel 2or3 places.i read this article.it is very helpful it provide great ideas.amazing article thanks for sharing.

Great recommendations! Some of it are already on my list. I just pick some great additions on my list. Thanks!

I think i watched the movie American Shaolin like 20 years ago. I didn’t know it was from a book. Gonna check it for sure. Thanks for great post.

I really love “Into Thin Air” by Jon Krakauer as well as his other book “Into the Wild”, The book and Sean Penn movie are amazing. I also love anything by Bill Bryson with my favorite being “A Walk in the Woods”

For something hot off the press, check out Oblivious; the story of a ride through Africa on a Royal Enfield. Lost teeth, hitchhiking on iron ore trains in the Sahara, romance… Check it out: obliviousthebook.com

Thank you for this! I’ve been into Kerouac lately because I love (and love to hate) his frantic writing style but I needed some other material =)

Hey Awesome List of books, I read eat pray love that is totally awesome and every traveler must read. Now I am going to add The Alchemist and American Shaolin in my bucket list.

Nice post! thanks for sharing.

I was searching for best travel books ad I found this. I have only Paulo Coelho from this list and i am definitely going to get myself a few. Thanks for the wonderful list. Really useful.

This is a great list – most of these I’ve not read so my reading list has just grown! A Long Way Gone is one book, though, that has been on my shelf for years – I’m a bit afraid to read it….

(I don’t admit this too loudly, but I couldn’t stand Eat Pray Love …)

Which is your favorite?? Obviously not Eat Pray Love! lol

The alchemist from the Paulo Coelho is very good book….i´m brazilian and like Paulo Coelho

Whenever I enter a bookstore, I always look for books pertaining travel, whether they are memoirs or a compilation of essays. I also made a post about these books that I have in my shelf. I can spot three of them here in your list. I’m interested in the other books you have cited here and I hope to get my own copies.

I am so happy to read this blog about 21 travel book. it is so much interesting and helpful for every person of the world who travel form one place to another. Canada is consider most visited place in the world. So Hamilton Airport Limo service is well known for Ground transportation medium to or from airport.

This is a great list… there’s also a lot of great poetry (Heights of Machu Picchu- Neruda) and Siddhartha by Herman Hesse really had me thinking Southeast Asia big time! Great post, guys!

I love to read travel books. This is a very resourceful list. I have read some of the books from this list. Very inspiring post. Loved it:)

This post has defiantly inspired me to get reading! please take the time to check out my travel blog: earthsmagicalplaces.com

All of these traveling books look amazing, especially if you’re on a long journey or waiting for your ride and need to kill time! Thank you for sharing these.

Awesome list, thanks for sharing with us

Many read and many added to the list. I’m neither a fan of books that paint a pretty picture of a country nor of the ones that put down a country altogether. But I still read them because there is no such thing as bad book 😉 We all learn a thing or two from a book anyway 🙂

I’m ashamed to admit that, of these, I’ve only read The Alchemist – although White Tiger is sitting waiting patiently on my bookshelf.

I do like to read books about / set in places I’m going to travel to, though. One of the best examples was before I went to Kansas last summer, I read all of the Little House on the Prairie books, and it actually really opened up the history of the area for me, and helped me to understand the formation of the state, and why it looks & is the way it is.

I’m currently reading Alain de Botton’s The Art of Travel, and it’s really making me think about how I write about my own travels, and how I tie together my travel blogging with my other writing (poetry & fiction).

All of Bill Bryson’s travel books make me want to just get off the couch and just go (and record my travels with dry wit and sarcasm), but aside from Bryson’s Road to Little Dribbling, I think my other favorite travel read of the last year was Mo Willems’ You Can Never Find a Rickshaw When it Monsoons: The World on One Cartoon a Day. Not only does one cartoon a day actually create a bizarrely interesting read, but it makes you start noticing the little moments that make your day. I also enjoyed Storybook Travels by Colleen Dunn Bates and Susan La Tempa. It’s a great book for parents traveling with children!

Awesome list, I will definitely be picking up a few of those, and read some of them again. Thank you Dave and Deb 🙂

Ha! I loved The Beach, the movie! Haven’t read the book but maybe I’ll put it on my list. 🙂 I did stopped reading Eat, Pray, Love in the India chapter but I went back to read it a second time and I’m glad I did. Her book, Big Magic, is really great for aspiring creatives so I would recommend that. 🙂

Interesting. I should maybe read Eat Pray Love again. The India chapter might be better for me since I’m no longer in India. Being removed from the location might put her writing into a different perspective

Great recommendations! I can’t wait to check a few of these titles out!

Kate | http://www.petiteadventures.org/

I’m saving this post in Bloglovin’ for as a future shopping reference, haha. I’ve gone through all my books and need more reading material. Thanks so much for sharing! I own and have already read Nomadic Matt’s book. It was super helpful!

Oh lordy my stack of books that I want to read is already sizable but I can see I’m going to add a few more to it….you have some great recommendations here. 🙂 .-= Trisha´s last blog .. PR-Blogger Relations Manifesto =-.

I agree – I loved White Tiger and couldn’t put it down. I read about five or six of the “must reads” that were popular for India travelers at the time and White Tiger and Shantaram were tops!

I have to read Shantaram. I can’t believe I hadn’t heard of it before writing this post. That is what I love about posts like this, you can learn so much from other people.

White Tiger by Aravind Adiga is really cool and also Travels by Michael Crichton…great list D&D! .-= agentcikay´s last blog ..Hokkien Mee and its Cult status =-.

Thanks. I am glad that someone else has read travels. When we tell people that Michael Chricton had a travel book they think we are mistaken. But it is very good.

Hahaha, I am laughing because the two books I can’t stand about India are The White Tiger and Shantaram — and both are mentioned here, in your post and in the comments. I have read a lot of books about India and I think there are far better books, more balanced, more insightful, more honest. I find these two blow a lot of hot air.

I think there is a kind of reactionary response to the “shining” India of economists or the “magical” India of travel writers and spiritual seekers. In fact, India — like life — is all of these things. Magical, poor, spiritual, dirty, friendly, nerve-wracking. A lot depends on your perspective, attitude and perception.

I have said before that India is like the cave that Yoda sends Luke into. When Luke asks, “What will I find there?” Yoda answers, “Only what you bring in with you.”

Mariellen .-= Mariellen Ward´s last blog ..Photo of the Week- Naga Sadhu =-.

Well, we will agree to disagree on this subject. We enjoyed many parts of India and made friends with many wonderful people, but a book that talks about the negatives of any country is important. That is how change is made. The poor need a voice and White Tiger gives them one in a very entertaining way to let people know their side of the story. I would love to know the books that are more balanced and insightful, it would be great if you could list a couple of recommendations and I will check them out. And your Star Wars quote (while very profound) has nothing to do with the book and the point we are making. White Tiger is about the people that are living in India, not about what a tourist is supposed to get out of their spiritual journey to India. Thanks for your comment Mariellen, I know that you love India and this recommendation isn’t meant to offend people that do, it is just a book that we felt hit the nail on the head of a lot of what we saw and read in the papers while we were there.

I’m glad you replied to this Dave, the post made me feel stupid and ignorant when I first read it, but then I thought about it more and my point still stands – I read the book and it made me want to go to India. I will stand with the agreement to disagree – Shantaram is a work of fiction, which is a story with hints of lives and attitudes in India, but through extreme views. It’s like saying you’d never go to Virginia because of Patricia Cornwell’s books. If I wanted earnest travel writing with a true anthropological view, I’d have gone to the travel writing or the history section. Perhaps it’s even more impressive that a work of fiction can open your mind to a country. I get a better view of what it’s really like from Indian friends, but I’m also a literature fan and have many influences in my travel life.

I’m currently struggling through Open Veins of Latin America, which is a socio-historic view of the region, before travelling out to Costa Rica later this year. It’s very worthy and I would really like to understand more of the politics, history and culture before I go but I’m highly unlikely to finish it as history presented in fact is rarely inspirational and certainly more difficult to absorb. My partner bought me Costa Rica: A Traveller’s Literary Companion, which is a series of local, translated short stories and folklore. I’ve whizzed through it because it was enjoyable and accessible – far more inspiring than the worthier tome that will give me a ‘better’ view.

Sorry to rant – apparently I feel quite strongly about this!

Thanks for the comment and don’t be sorry at all. That is what we love about blogging, it encourages discussion. I think that your point is bang on. Books of extremes can make me want to go the a country even more. The Bang Bang Club is very unforgiving and yet, I think that it inspires people to go to South Africa. I read it while I was there and loved it even though it didn’t portray the country is a perfect light. I guess, a lot of the books we mentioned don’t paint a pretty picture of any country, but they all have inspired us to explore them more. And you are right, this is a book of fiction and it is impressive that a book can open your mind to a country and evoke such strong feelings on either side of the coin. That makes for great writing I think, when people feel passionate about it either way…absolutely loving it, or genuinely hating it.

Shantaram is also a very inspiring picture of India. Bittersweet, laugh out loud, exciting book. I’d never wanted to visit before reading this, now it’s definitely on my list.

Laura, I will definitely have to check out Shantaram thanks for the recommendation.

Oops, I replied to Trisha on the wrong post, that is supposed to be on Celebrities that inspire travel post. Taking it off now, but didn’t want you to think that I was a crazy person and going off on a tangent regarding celebrities:) Sorry Laura.

I must say it did confuse me!

Haha, sorry about that. If you didn’t reply back, I would have never known and we would have had an odd message on our books post about celebrities. 🙂

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All about booking with Capital One Travel

Planning the perfect getaway? Save yourself from seemingly endless online searches and choose a better way:  Capital One Travel . Capital One Travel is an online booking platform that covers every step of your trip and is designed to help you plan, book and travel with confidence. 

This guide breaks down exactly how it works and what it offers.

Key takeaways

• Capital One Travel is an online booking experience where eligible cardholders can book flights, hotels and rental cars.
• Depending on your card, you can earn as much as 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel.
• Booking through Capital One Travel gives you access to smarter tools like price prediction, price drop protection and more.
• Venture X cardholders receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel.
• Eligible cardholders also receive an experience credit and premium benefits on every hotel booking from the Premier or Lifestyle collection.

Capital One Travel

Earn extra rewards and find our best prices for flights, hotels and car rentals.

What is Capital One Travel? 

Capital One Travel is an online booking experience for Capital One rewards credit cardholders in partnership with Hopper. It launched in 2021 to make trip planning and travel enjoyable and hassle free for eligible Capital One cardholders.

Capital One Travel sorts through thousands of options to help you get Capital One’s best prices for flights, hotels and car rentals and confidently book your travel online. 1 As a bonus, eligible cardholders can earn extra rewards when booking through Capital One Travel.

Capital One Travel features and benefits

Cardholders can sign in to Capital One Travel to compare prices and book flights, hotels and rental cars. But that’s just the start. 

You’ll have access to unique tools and offers before and after you book, giving you a rewarding, flexible travel experience. Here’s a closer look at some of the benefits of Capital One Travel:

Cancel your flight for any reason

Need to make your travel booking more flexible? For a small fee when booking, you can add the option to cancel your flight for any reason.

This option gives you the ability to cancel your flight up to a set time within your scheduled departure. Capital One Travel will issue a refund—typically 70%-90% of the ticket price—to your original payment method. 

Sometimes, you’ll also have the option to choose an airline credit worth 100% of your original ticket cost instead of the refund. Airline credit availability depends on the airline’s policies. If you choose this option, Capital One Travel will still cover any related cancellation or rebooking fees. 2

Freeze the price of a flight

Want a little extra time to decide on a flight but don’t want to stress about the price going up? For some flights offered through Capital One Travel, you can “freeze” the price for a specific period of time by paying a small fee. 

When you freeze the price of the flight, Capital One Travel will hold that price for you until the expiration date of your frozen price. That expiration date will be given to you before completing your purchase.

If the price of the flight increases after you freeze it (and before your frozen price expires), Capital One Travel will cover any fare increase up to your maximum refund limit. And if the price goes down, you’ll pay the current lower price. 3

Earn bonus rewards

When you book that fabulous hotel room for the weekend or reserve a car rental for a scenic drive, you’re earning extra rewards you can put toward your next trip. 

Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders get 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel. 

And when booking through Capital One Travel with other eligible U.S.-issued Capital One cards, earn 5X miles or 5% cash back on hotels and car rentals, depending on the card:

• Travel credit cards : Venture, VentureOne
• Cash back credit cards : Quicksilver, QuicksilverOne, Quicksilver for Good Credit, Quicksilver Student, Quicksilver Secured and Capital One Walmart Rewards® Card
• Dining and entertainment credit cards : Savor, SavorOne, SavorOne Student, SavorOne for Good Credit 
• Business credit cards : Spark Miles, Spark Miles Select, Spark Cash Select, Spark Classic, Spark Cash Plus

Get price prediction and price watch alerts for flights

Looking for the best time to book flights? When you search for flights on Capital One Travel, you’ll see a recommendation to either book now or wait for a better price. Capital One Travel uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze billions of data points and predict how flight prices will fluctuate. 

To get started, you can set a price alert for the destination and dates you’re interested in flying. Capital One Travel will monitor prices 24/7 and let you know when it’s time to book. With help from our price predictions and alerts, you can save an average of 15% on flights. 4

Get free price drop protection for flights

Did you book a flight to visit loved ones based on Capital One Travel recommendations? If you booked at a recommended time, Capital One Travel will keep watching the price for 10 days. If it drops, you get up to $50 in travel credit for the difference. 5

Get Capital One Travel's best prices, guaranteed

If you find a better price on the same flight, hotel or car rental, Capital One Travel will match it. Simply submit a request within 24 hours of booking with us, and Capital One Travel will give you a travel credit for the difference. For hotels, we also proactively adjust our prices to guarantee they match or beat other travel sites. 6

Redeem rewards for travel

Have you been saving up your rewards? Apply them to any trip booked through Capital One Travel. Or use a combination of rewards and your card when booking. The choice is yours.

Stay in style

Elevate your stay with rooftop drinks, meals at signature restaurants, room service and other unique amenities when you book with the Premier Collection or Lifestyle Collection . The collections also include a $50 or $100 experience credit (depending on the collection) and other premium benefits like room upgrades, early check-in and late checkout when available—all to make it even easier to upgrade your next getaway. 7

Capital One Travel FAQ

Check out these frequently asked questions about Capital One Travel.

How can I access Capital One Travel?

If you have access through your card, you’ll see the option to start booking trips when you sign in and view your rewards . Through the site, you can pay for flights, hotels and car rentals with your Capital One card, your rewards or both. Don’t have an eligible Capital One card? You can compare options and benefits to get started.  

Do I need a Capital One travel rewards credit card to use Capital One Travel?

If you have any eligible Capital One credit card, you can use Capital One Travel to plan your next getaway. Travel rewards credit cards earn miles on hotels and car rentals when booking through Capital One Travel, and other eligible cards earn cash back. 

You can see if you’re pre-approved for an eligible card today—with no harm to your credit.

Can I transfer miles instead of booking through Capital One Travel?

You may be able to transfer your Capital One miles to one of Capital One’s loyalty programs .

Does Capital One offer travel insurance?

Some Capital One rewards credit cards may offer travel insurance . And some coverage may be available through your card’s network . You can check your card’s benefits and terms to determine if you qualify for travel coverage, lost luggage reimbursement or travel accident insurance.

Capital One Travel in a nutshell

Capital One Travel provides advanced booking tools, price guarantees and the ability to earn and redeem your rewards—all to help you travel smarter. All you need is a Capital One travel rewards credit card or any eligible Capital One card to use it. So if you’re jetting off to a new place soon, start planning your trip today with Capital One Travel .

Other ways to maximize your travel benefits

Who wouldn’t want to get the most out of their credit card? Here are some things to know about Capital One travel rewards credit cards: 

Get a one-time 75,000-mile bonus with the Capital One Venture X card and receive an additional 10,000 bonus miles every year, starting on your first anniversary. ( View important rates and disclosures .)

Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, every day and get 75,000 bonus miles upon signup with the Capital One Venture card . ( View important rates and disclosures .)

Earn unlimited 1.25X miles with no annual fee with the Venture One card from Capital One . ( View important rates and disclosures .) 

Explore travel rewards card options by comparing Capital One Venture cards . 

Learn how Venture X cardholders can get access to a worldwide network of airport lounges thanks to a complimentary Priority Pass membership .

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How to book travel (and save points) with Chase Travel

Editor's note : This is a recurring post, regularly updated with the latest information.

Chase Ultimate Rewards is one of the best flexible rewards currencies available, and you can get some incredible value from your Ultimate Rewards points .

Generally, we recommend transferring Chase points to the program's airline and hotel partners for award bookings. However, sometimes redeeming Ultimate Rewards points for paid travel through Chase Travel℠ is more advantageous. This option can save you money, particularly when traditional award space is unavailable, as you can book almost any available flight or hotel through Chase Travel.

Here's what you need to know about Chase Travel.

Related: New Chase Sapphire Preferred offer: Earn 75,000 of the most valuable points

What is Chase Travel

To maximize your Ultimate Rewards points, it's often best to transfer them to partner programs like United MileagePlus , World of Hyatt or British Airways Executive Club for award reservations. However, it's important to compare the points needed for a direct booking through Chase Travel to those required for an award booking. Sometimes, booking through the portal can be beneficial, as the points price is tied to the cash cost of the flight or hotel stay, potentially resulting in lower point requirements.

However, you need to have some Chase points before using Chase Travel. If you're unfamiliar with Chase's most popular cards and welcome offers, here are a few current ones to be aware of.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a TPG favorite. It currently comes with one of the highest sign-up bonuses from Chase — 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Based on our valuations , the bonus points alone are worth $2,050. However, you can redeem these points through Chase Travel for a fixed value of 1.25 cents apiece.

Read more: Ink Business Preferred Credit Card review: A great all-around business card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is another fantastic addition to your wallet. For a limited time, you'll earn an elevated 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. The bonus is worth $1,538 based on TPG valuations .

Like the Ink Business Preferred, you'll get a value of 1.25 cents per point when booking directly through Chase Travel with the Sapphire Preferred. You'll also earn 5 points per dollar on paid travel purchased through Chase (excluding the first $50 in hotel purchases that qualify for the card's annual hotel credit ).

Read more: Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card review: 75,000-point bonus for a top travel card

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

For a limited time only, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, which is worth $1,538 based on TPG valuations.

This card includes additional perks, like a PreCheck or Global Entry credit , Priority Pass lounge access and a $300 annual travel credit . This card also boosts your portal redemption rate to 1.5 cents per point, giving you 0.25 cents per point in additional purchase power over the Sapphire Preferred. When you book travel through Chase with the Sapphire Reserve, you'll earn 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals and 5 points per dollar on flights (excluding purchases that qualify for the $300 travel credit).

Read more: Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card review: Luxury perks and valuable rewards, plus a 75,000-point bonus

Cash-back cards

Chase also issues a number of cash-back credit cards — including the Chase Freedom Unlimited® , Ink Business Cash® Credit Card and Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card . The rewards you earn on these cards are worth 1 cent apiece toward travel in Chase Travel. However, Chase allows you to combine your earnings into a single account . This means that you can effectively convert these cash-back rewards into fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points if you also have the Sapphire Preferred, Sapphire Reserve or Ink Business Preferred.

How to use Chase Travel

You can book flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises and other travel through Chase Travel, and it's relatively simple to access. First, you'll need to log into your Chase account, then navigate to the right side of the page, where you'll see a little box with your total Ultimate Rewards balance.

Click the box and it will bring you to the Ultimate Rewards dashboard, which looks like this:

Click "Travel" to access the travel homepage and search for airfare, hotels or vacation rentals.

Remember that when you book hotels through the portal with Ultimate Rewards points, you typically will not earn hotel points and elite credits and may not receive elite status perks because it's considered a third-party booking.

However, flights booked through the portal will typically earn frequent flyer miles and qualify for elite status.

How to book flights using Chase Travel

Booking your flights is a straightforward process once you've navigated to the portal's travel page. Type in your arrival and departure airports and travel dates, then hit the search button. For this search, I looked for a one-way flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

You'll then see the available flight options. When you find a flight you like, select the fare type you want to book and click the blue "Choose flight" button.

Once you've selected your preferred flights, you'll be taken to the next page to review your flight information and look over any upgrades you'd like to make.

Then, you'll be directed to the checkout page, where you can pay with cash, points or a combination of the two. Again, points linked to a Chase Sapphire Reserve account are worth 1.5 cents each. If you have a Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or Ink Business Preferred Credit Card , points are worth 1.25 cents each.

Finally, you'll be directed to a page where you will enter the traveler's information and finalize your flights.

How to book hotels using Chase Travel

Booking hotels is similar to booking flights on the travel portal. This can be advantageous if you're looking at hotels outside of major chains that partner with Ultimate Rewards ( Hyatt , IHG and Marriott ). Regardless of how you book your hotel, compare the award rates required by these hotel loyalty programs to ensure you're getting the best deal.

Also, if you have an eligible card, you can access the Chase Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection , which gives you perks at around 1,000 luxury properties worldwide. Participating cards include the Chase Sapphire Reserve , United℠ Explorer Card , United Club℠ Infinite Card , United Quest℠ Card and United℠ Business Card .

Here's a sample search for hotels in Olso, Norway, which hosts mostly boutique hotels.

Once you've selected your desired property, room and rate, you can specify how many points you want to use on the checkout page.

Then, run through the on-screen prompts to finalize your booking, and you'll get an email confirmation.

Remember, you'll receive up to $50 in statement credits yearly for hotel reservations made through Chase Travel as a Sapphire Preferred cardholder.

Related: Book low-end or luxury hotels to get the best value from your points

How to book car rentals, cruises and other travel using Chase Travel

Using Chase Travel, you can rent cars, pay with points and still receive the excellent primary car rental insurance offered by the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

The process of renting cars is similar to booking flights and hotels. Navigate to the "Cars" header from the main landing page and type in your itinerary, even if it's a one-way rental. Then, select "Search," and the results page will pop up. Once you choose your car, you'll be prompted to select add-ons.

When you've finished selecting, you'll head to the booking page, where you'll input your personal information and choose how many points you'd like to spend. Remember that to qualify for rental car insurance, you must decline the car rental company's collision damage waiver and ensure that anyone driving the car is on the rental agreement.

You can also book activities and cruises through Chase. Regarding activities, you can use your points to book fantastic tours like a Washington, D.C., night monument tour or Singapore heritage food tour at 1.25 or 1.5 cents each. This can be an excellent way to make a vacation free, instead of just your hotels and flights.

Cruises are also available, though you'll have to call to book those.

Related: The easiest ways to save on rental cars

More things to consider about Chase Travel

Below is some general guidance to maximize your experience with the portal.

We recommend comparing the points needed through Chase Travel with those required for partner transfers, factoring in taxes and fees. If you have or want hotel elite status, avoid booking hotels through the portal. These stays generally won't count toward status or qualify for hotel elite status benefits.

Booking through Chase Travel with cash can earn you extra points; Ink Business Preferred and Sapphire Preferred cardholders earn 5 points per dollar on all travel and Sapphire Reserve cardholders earn 5 points per dollar on flights and 10 points per dollar on hotels and rental cars. You might find better rates by booking directly with the travel provider; however, if your plans are firm and rates are comparable, booking through the portal can be worthwhile for earning extra points.

Remember that booking through third-party sites may result in issues if you change your plans, though. Travel providers are more likely to assist you if you've booked directly with them.

Bottom line

Chase Travel lets you use your points to book flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises and activities. If award flights aren't available or you find a cheap fare that requires fewer points, booking through the portal can be a good option.

With the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve cards offering elevated welcome bonuses of 75,000 Ultimate Rewards points, now is a great time to look at Chase Travel.

Similarly, for hotels, it can be a good deal if you find a cheap rate or book a boutique property, but keep in mind that you may not earn hotel points or receive elite benefits. Whether booking rental cars, activities or cruises, always compare the options to see if using the portal or transferring to partners for an award is more advantageous.

'The Ministry of Time' by Kaliane Bradley is our 'GMA' Book Club pick for May

Kaliane Bradley's novel is a blend of travel, romance and spy thriller.

"The Ministry of Time" by Kaline Bradley is our "GMA" Book Club pick for May.

A British-Cambodian writer and editor based in London, Bradley was the winner of the 2022 Harper’s Bazaar Short Story Prize and the 2022 V.S. Pritchett Short Story Prize.

A blend of multiple genres from romance to thriller, her debut fiction novel chronicles the journey of a civil servant who is offered the salary of her dreams working for a new government ministry gathering “expats” across history to find out if time travel is attainable.

MORE: 'Just for the Summer' by Abby Jimenez is our 'GMA' Book Club pick for April

Her responsibility is to serve as a bridge by living with, assisting and monitoring an expat known as “1847” or Commander Graham Gore.

As far as history is concerned, Commander Gore died on Sir John Franklin’s doomed 1845 expedition to the Arctic, so he’s a little disoriented to be living with an unmarried woman who is surrounded by outlandish concepts such as “washing machines,” “Spotify” and “the collapse of the British Empire.”

But with an appetite for discovery, a seven-a-day cigarette habit, and the support of a charming and chaotic cast of fellow expats, he soon adjusts. The dynamic later evolves from an uncomfortable situation into something more genuine and deeper.

By the time the true shape of the Ministry’s project comes to light, Gore and the bridge are forced to confront the choices that brought them together. Can true love prevail? What does it mean to defy history, when history is living in your house?

Read an excerpt below and get a copy of the book here .

The Ministry of Time: A Novel

This month, we are also teaming up with Little Free Library to give out free copies in Times Square and at 150 locations across the U.S. and Canada. Since 2009, more than 300 million books have been shared in Little Free Libraries across the world. Click here to find a copy of "The Ministry of Time" at a Little Free Library location near you.

Read along with us and join the conversation all month on our Instagram account, @GMABookClub, and with #GMABookClub.

***************************

The interviewer said my name, which made my thoughts clip. I don’t say my name, not even in my head. She’d said it correctly, which people generally don’t.

“I’m Adela,” she said. She had an eye patch and blond hair the same color and texture as hay. “I’m the Vice Secretary.”

“Of . . . ?”

“Have a seat.”

This was my sixth round of interviews. The job I was interviewing for was an internal posting. It had been marked security clearance required because it was gauche to use the top secret stamps on paperwork with salary bands.

I’d never been cleared to this security level, hence why no one would tell me what the job was. As it paid almost triple my current salary, I was happy to taste ignorance.

I’d had to produce squeaky-clean grades in first aid, Safeguarding Vulnerable People, and the Home Office’s Life in the UK test to get this far.

I knew that I would be working closely with refugees of high-interest status and particular needs, but I didn’t know from whence they were fleeing. I’d assumed politically important defectors from Russia or China.

Adela, Vice Secretary of God knows what, tucked a blond strand behind her ear with an audible crunch.

“Your mother was a refugee, wasn’t she?” she said, which is a demented way to begin a job interview.

“Yes, ma’am.” “Cambodia,” she said. “Yes, ma’am.”

I’d been asked this question a couple of times over the course of the interview process. Usually people asked it with an upward lilt, expecting me to correct them, because no one’s from Cambodia.

You don’t look Cambodian, one early clown had said to me, then glowed like a pilot light because the interview was being recorded for staff monitoring and training purposes. He’d get a warning for that one.

People say this to me a lot, and what they mean is: you look like one of the late-entering forms of white — Spanish maybe — and also like you’re not dragging a genocide around, which is good because that sort of thing makes people uncomfortable.

There was no genocide-adjacent follow-up: Any family still there [understanding moue]? Do you ever visit [sympathetic smile]? Beautiful country [darkening with tears]; when I visited [visible on lower lid] they were so friendly...

Adela just nodded. I wondered if she’d go for the rare fourth option and pronounce the country dirty.

“She would never refer to herself as a refugee, or even a former refugee,” I added. “It’s been quite weird to hear people say that.”

“The people you will be working with are also unlikely to use the term. We prefer ‘expat.’ In answer to your question, I’m the Vice Secretary of Expatriation.”

“And they are expats from . . . ?” “History.”

Adela shrugged. “We have time-travel,” she said, like someone describing the coffee machine. “Welcome to the Ministry.”

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I was thrilled to get the job. I’d plateaued where I was, in the Lan- guages department of the Ministry of Defence.

I worked as a translator - consultant specializing in Southeast Asia, specifically Cambodia. I’d learned the languages I translated from at university.

Despite my mother speaking Khmer to us at home, I hadn’t retained it through my forma- tive years. I came to my heritage as a foreigner.

I liked my Languages job well enough, but I’d wanted to become a field agent, and after failing the field exams twice I was at a bit of a loss for career trajectory. It wasn’t what my parents had had in mind for me.

When I was a very small child, my mother made her ambitions known. She wanted me to be prime minister. As prime minister, I would “do something” about British foreign policy and I would also take my parents to fancy governmental dinners.

I would have a chauffeur. (My mother never learned to drive; the chauffeur was important.) Regrettably she also drilled the karmic repercussions of gossip and lying into me — the fourth Buddhist precept is unambiguous on this—and thus at the age of eight my political career was over before it began.

My younger sister was a far more skilled dissembler. I was dutiful with language, and she was evasive, pugnacious with it.

This is why I became a translator and she became a writer — or at least she tried to become a writer and became a copy editor.

I was paid considerably more than her, and my parents understood what my job was, so I would say that karma worked in my favor. My sister would say something along the lines of: Go f--k yourself. But I know she means it in a friendly way, probably.

Even on the very day we were to meet the expats, we were still arguing about the word “expat.”

“If they’re refugees,” said Simellia, one of the other bridges, “then we should call them refugees. They’re not moving to a summer cottage in Provence.”

“They will not necessarily think of themselves as refugees,” said Vice Secretary Adela.

“Has anyone asked them what they think?”

“They see themselves as kidnap victims, mostly. Nineteen-sixteen thinks he’s behind enemy lines. Sixteen-sixty-five thinks she’s dead.”

“And they’re being released to us today?”

“The Wellness team think their adjustment will be negatively im- pacted if they’re held on the wards any longer,” said Adela, dry as a filing system.

We — or rather, Simellia and Adela — were having this argument in one of the Ministry’s interminable rooms: pebble-colored with lights embedded in the ceiling, modular in a way that suggested opening a door would lead to another identical space, and then another, and then another. Rooms like this are designed to encourage bureaucracy.

This was supposed to be the final direct briefing of the five bridges: Simellia, Ralph, Ivan, Ed, and me.

We’d all gone through a six-round interview process that put the metaphorical drill to our back teeth and bored. Have you now, or ever, been convicted of or otherwise implicated in any activity that might undermine your security status? Then nine months of preparation.

The endless working groups and background checks. The construction of shell jobs in our old departments (Defence, Diplomatic, Home Office). Now we were here, in a room where the electricity was audible in the light bulbs, about to make history.

“Don’t you think,” said Simellia, “that throwing them into the world when they think they’re in the afterlife or on the western front might impede their adjustment? I ask both as a psychologist and a person with a normal level of empathy.”

Adela shrugged.

“It might. But this country has never accepted expatriates from history before. They might die of genetic mutations within the year.”

“Should we expect that?” I asked, alarmed.

“We don’t know what to expect. That’s why you have this job.”

From "The Ministry of Time" by Kaliane Bradley. Copyright 2024 by Kaliane Bradley. Reprinted by permission of Avid Reader Press, a Division of Simon   & Schuster, Inc.

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