6 Must

As we approach a new year, many of us highlight the opportunity for a fresh start with our paid time off (PTO) rolling over. This renewal allows us to dream about vacation plans and travel adventures. If you’re seeking inspiration on where to go, consider tuning into a travel podcast. The following six travel-themed podcasts are bound to inspire you to pack your luggage, grab your passport, and set off on your journey! (See also: 5 Scientific Reasons Why Traveling Benefits Your Health)

1. Zero to Travel

Zero to Travel (Z2T) extends beyond just travel discussions. Filled with thrilling destinations and captivating travel tales, this podcast aims to encourage listeners not only to travel but to fully embrace the journey. It fosters a community that provides practical tips, actionable plans, and resources on securing travel jobs, launching location-independent careers, budgeting for adventures, and crafting a life centered around travel. (See also: An Effortless Guide to Saving for Your Travel Fund)

2. Amateur Traveler

If increasing your travel activities is on your list of resolutions, look no further than Amateur Traveler. For over ten years, host Chris Christensen has guided novice explorers in selecting and efficiently visiting must-see locations on their lists. With a range of episodes covering both local and distant travel spots, there’s something to pique everyone’s interest. Recent episodes spotlight Northern Chile, Belarus, Albuquerque, and Napa. (See also: Budget-Friendly Places for 9 Popular Bucket List Experiences)

3. The Budget-Minded Traveler

While the concept of solo female travel isn’t new, its popularity continues to grow as a significant life experience. Having embarked on solo journeys myself, I continually find joy in the people I meet and the invaluable lessons gleaned along the way.

The Budget-Minded Traveler focuses particularly on solo female adventurers, but its recommendations are useful for anyone traveling independently. Alongside the podcast, there’s a blog filled with resources, and host Jackie Nourse offers an online program designed as a guide for successful solo travel. (See also: 6 Surprising Advantages of Traveling Alone)

4. Travel With Rick Steves

I’ve admired Rick Steves’ travel literature for many years, and his podcast, Travel with Rick Steves, has captured my heart as well. Steves specializes in European travel, making him an excellent resource if Europe tops your travel list. While he covers classic must-sees, the real treasure lies in the hidden gems he reveals. Steves’ extensive travels have allowed him to cultivate relationships with small innkeepers, local chefs, and specialized tour guides, transforming ordinary trips into extraordinary, unforgettable experiences.

5. Travel Wisdom Podcast

If you value collective insights and shared experiences, you’ll appreciate the Travel Wisdom Podcast. Featuring a diverse range of guests who recount their travel adventures and lessons learned, this podcast compiles invaluable advice to enrich your journeys. It’s often wiser to learn from the adventures and misadventures of others rather than navigating challenges on your own.

6. As Told By Nomads

If you’re interested in linking your passion for global issues with cultural exploration in your travels, then As Told By Nomads, hosted by Tayo Rockson, is for you. Rockson interviews influential travelers who excel in fields like business, culture, travel, and international relations. Each guest imparts a profound sense of cultural understanding and global consciousness.

These podcasts show us that there are limitless ways to weave travel into our lives, reflecting the vast array of remarkable destinations waiting for us. Whether you seek a getaway, a sabbatical, or wish to establish a life and career free from geographical constraints, these podcasts will equip you with the insights needed to turn your travel aspirations into reality.

Now, it’s time to explore! Safe travels. I look forward to hearing about your adventures and seeing where your journeys take you.