10 Best Travel Books to Read That Spark Wanderlust
Books are more than just stories—they are tickets to new worlds. The best travel books to read can transport you across mountains, oceans, and deserts while you sit in your favorite chair. They awaken your sense of adventure, inspire you to see life differently, and remind you that journeys often start in the imagination before they begin in reality.
Why the Best Travel Books to Read
The best travel books to read go beyond descriptions of places. They are about emotions, challenges, and inspiring stories of those who dared to step into the unknown. Whether you’re an avid explorer or a dreamer waiting for the right moment, these books prepare you mentally and emotionally for adventure.
Best Travel Books to Read for Every Wanderer
The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho | One of the Best Books to Read
No list of the best travel books to read is complete without The Alchemist. In fact, it’s not just a novel—it’s a spiritual guide disguised as a story. For example, the young shepherd Santiago dreams of treasure and sets out on a journey across deserts and foreign lands. Along the way, he learns about destiny, love, and the importance of following one’s dreams. Consequently, this book has inspired millions to see travel not only as movement across places but also as a quest for meaning.
Best Books to Read: Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Elizabeth Gilbert’s memoir has become one of the most popular books to read in the travel genre. After all, following a painful divorce, she leaves behind her structured life and embarks on a year-long journey. First, in Italy, she savors food and joy (Eat). Next, in India, she finds spirituality (Pray). Finally, in Bali, she discovers balance and love (Love). Moreover, what makes it one of the best travel books to read is its honest exploration of self-discovery, showing that travel can heal both body and spirit.
In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
Bill Bryson’s humor shines in this book as he explores Australia—a land filled with both breathtaking beauty and dangerous wildlife. Moreover, with wit and curiosity, he describes deserts, coral reefs, and quirky towns. In addition, his storytelling makes you laugh while teaching you about history and culture. Furthermore, it’s an interesting book to read if you want to understand how travel mixes comedy, fear, and wonder into unforgettable experiences. Overall, Bryson’s vivid observations and humor make this journey engaging from start to finish.
MicroAdventures by Alastair Humphreys
This book proves that adventure isn’t always about far-off places. For instance, Humphreys encourages readers to find excitement close to home through camping, hiking, or even sleeping under the stars in their own backyard. Moreover, it’s one of the best travel books to read for busy people who think they lack time or money for big trips. In addition, the message is simple yet powerful: adventure is a mindset, not a destination. Ultimately, this book reminds us that exploration can happen anywhere, at any time.
Into the Wild by John Krakauer
This powerful story follows Christopher McCandless, a young man who leaves behind comfort and security to live in the wilds of Alaska. His journey is both inspiring and tragic, raising questions about freedom, solitude, and purpose. Into the Wild remains one of the most inspiring books for travelers who crave authenticity and want to break away from societal expectations.
How Not To Travel the World by Lauren Juliff
Lauren Juliff’s memoir is refreshingly honest and often hilarious. From scams in Shanghai to monkey attacks in Asia, she finds herself in one disaster after another. Yet, her resilience makes this book one of the best travel books to read for those who want real, messy, and inspiring stories. It reminds us that travel isn’t always glamorous—but it’s always worth it.
Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes
Frances Mayes transports readers to Tuscany, where she buys a crumbling villa and begins a new life filled with food, romance, and local culture. This book celebrates slow living and the beauty of embracing change. As one of the good books to read for self-renewal, it teaches that sometimes the best journeys are about staying put and savoring the small joys of daily life.
Lost on Planet China by J. Maartan Troost
Troost captures the chaos, humor, and mystery of traveling through China. From big cities like Beijing and Shanghai to the remote corners of Tibet, his storytelling blends sharp wit with keen observation. It’s one of the most interesting books to read for anyone curious about exploring China beyond the tourist surface.
Love With a Chance of Drowning by Torre DeRoche
Torre DeRoche’s memoir is about love, fear, and adventure on the open sea. Afraid of deep water, she faces her greatest fear when she falls for a man who dreams of sailing the world. Their journey across the Pacific is filled with storms, challenges, and unforgettable moments. This book stands out as one of the best travel books to read for anyone struggling between fear and passion.
The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner
Weiner’s search for happiness takes him across Bhutan, Iceland, India, and beyond. Part travelogue, part self-help, this book is witty and thought-provoking. It asks deep questions: What makes people truly happy? Can travel change our outlook on life? With humor and insight, it’s one of the most inspiring books.
