Travel reels are a visual feast, capturing breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating adventures. But what truly brings these moments to life is the soundtrack. The right music can evoke emotions, transport viewers to another place, and enhance the overall experience. From the infectious energy of a summer road trip to the wistful nostalgia of a sunset over the ocean, there's a song for every travel mood. This curated list isn't just about highlighting catchy tunes; it's about celebrating the artists who have crafted soundtracks to our wanderlust. Whether you're seeking a pulse-pounding anthem for your next adventure or a mellow melody to soundtrack your daydreams, this collection of songs is sure to inspire your travel spirit.
| Song | Artist | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Summer | Calvin Harris | Motion | n/a | 2B+ |
| 2. Africa | TOTO | Toto IV | n/a | 1B+ |
| 3. Mr. Brightside | The Killers | Hot Fuss | 2003 | 570M+ |
| 4. Viva La Vida | Coldplay | Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends | 2008 | 925M+ |
| 5. Tongue Tied | GROUPLOVE | Never Trust a Happy Song | n/a | 40M+ |
| 6. Riptide | Vance Joy | Dream Your Life Away (Special Edition) | n/a | 577M+ |
| 7. Margaritaville | Jimmy Buffett | Changes In Latitudes, Changes In Attitudes | 1977 | 2M+ |
1. Summer (Motion)
To my heartbeat sound ”
Song information
| ArtistCalvin Harris | ReleaseN/A |
| Time03:54 | View2B+ |
| Likes 7M+ | SuitableEDM Enthusiasts |
| AlbumMotionListen on Spotify | |
- Pop
- Pop Music
- Dance-pop
- Dance
- House
Calvin Harris's "Summer" isn't just a catchy tune; it's a sonic postcard from a sun-drenched getaway. This upbeat pop track, bursting with energy and a carefree vibe, instantly transports you to a world of sunshine and laughter. The infectious melody, coupled with lyrics about warm nights and carefree days, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of summer travel.
Think vibrant beach scenes, impromptu road trips, and cityscapes bathed in golden light. The song's signature synth lines, reminiscent of warm ocean breezes, evoke a sense of adventure and escape. Whether it's a montage of your sunset adventures or a playful snapshot of your city explorations, "Summer" is a perfect companion for travel reels, capturing the carefree joy of exploring new places and making unforgettable memories.
2. Riptide - Dream Your Life Away (Special Edition)
I was scared of pretty girls and starting conversations ”
Song information
| ArtistVance Joy | ReleaseN/A |
| Time03:25 | View577M+ |
| Likes 4M+ | SuitableYoung adults |
| AlbumDream Your Life Away (Special Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Pop
- Acoustic Guitar
- Romantic
- Acoustic
- Indie Pop
Have you ever heard a song that instantly transports you to a sun-drenched beach or a winding road trip? "Riptide" by Vance Joy is that kind of song. It's an upbeat pop track with a feel-good indie folk vibe that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of travel. The song's lyrics paint vivid imagery of seaside adventures, with lines like "running down to the riptide, taken away to the dark side" conjuring up a sense of both excitement and a touch of mystery.
This song has become a staple in many travel reels, especially those that feature scenic landscapes, road trip montages, and sunset shots. The bright and cheerful melody complements the visual aesthetics of these reels, creating a seamless blend of sound and image. Whether you're showcasing a breathtaking mountain range or a vibrant city skyline, "Riptide" provides the perfect soundtrack to add a touch of nostalgia and adventure to your travel footage.
3. Margaritaville
All of those tourists covered with oil ”
Song information
| ArtistJimmy Buffett | Release1977 |
| Time04:10 | View2M+ |
| Likes 21K+ | SuitableBeachgoers |
| AlbumChanges In Latitudes, Changes In AttitudesListen on Spotify | |
- Island Vibes
- Jimmy Buffett
- Tropical Getaway
- Relaxing Escape
In a world dominated by upbeat electronic tracks, 'Margaritaville' by Jimmy Buffett emerges as a timeless classic, offering a breezy escape to tropical paradise. This iconic song, a cornerstone of Buffett's career, embodies a laid-back, carefree vibe that's perfect for capturing the essence of travel in your reels. The song's signature steel guitar melody and lyrics about sun-kissed beaches, swaying palm trees, and the sweet escape of a "Margaritaville" instantly transport viewers to a relaxed, sun-drenched destination.
Imagine a vibrant sunset over the ocean, a montage of road trips through scenic landscapes, or a playful beach day with friends – these are just a few of the many travel reels that 'Margaritaville' would elevate with its nostalgic, yet adventurous aura. The song's infectious energy and iconic chorus will instantly capture your audience's attention, making it the perfect soundtrack to your travel adventures.
4. On Top Of The World (Imagine Dragons)
I've had the deepest rivers ”
Song information
| ArtistImagine Dragons | ReleaseN/A |
| Time04:02 | View335M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableTeenagers |
| AlbumNight Visions (Deluxe)Listen on Spotify | |
- Pop rock
- Anthemic
- Uplifting
- Imagine Dragons
From the very first notes of 'On Top Of The World' by Imagine Dragons, you're instantly transported to a world of boundless energy and optimism. This upbeat anthem, categorized as alternative rock with pop sensibilities, carries a vibrant, adventurous vibe that perfectly captures the spirit of travel. The lyrics, brimming with hope and determination, paint vivid pictures of reaching new heights and conquering challenges, making it a perfect soundtrack for capturing those moments of triumph on your journey.
Imagine the song's infectious chorus playing over a montage of breathtaking landscapes, bustling city streets, or exhilarating road trips. The lyrics, "I'm on top of the world, looking down on creation," evoke a sense of freedom and accomplishment, perfectly complementing visuals of soaring mountain peaks, sprawling cityscapes, or endless horizons. Whether you're creating a montage of your latest adventure or showcasing a captivating sunset scene, 'On Top Of The World' has the power to elevate your travel reels with its uplifting message and captivating melody.
5. Kokomo (The Beach Boys)
Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama ”
Song information
| ArtistThe Beach Boys | ReleaseN/A |
| Time03:33 | View16M+ |
| Likes 104K+ | SuitableBeach Lovers |
| AlbumRattle And HumListen on Spotify | |
- The Beach Boys
- Nostalgic Vibes
- Feel-Good Rhythm
- Tropical Paradise
- Summer Getaway
"Kokomo" by The Beach Boys is more than just a catchy tune; it's a sonic escape to a tropical paradise. This upbeat pop song, infused with a carefree and nostalgic vibe, perfectly captures the spirit of adventure and relaxation that many associate with travel. The lyrics paint vivid pictures of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees, instantly transporting listeners to a sun-drenched island getaway.
The melody, with its breezy rhythm and iconic harmonies, evokes images of carefree days spent exploring new destinations. "Kokomo" is an ideal choice for travel reels featuring sun-kissed beaches, vibrant sunsets, or road trips along scenic coastlines. Imagine using it as a soundtrack for a montage of your travels, highlighting the beauty and excitement of discovering new places and creating unforgettable memories. The song's timeless appeal makes it a versatile choice for travel content, whether it's a montage of a recent adventure or a nostalgic look back at past journeys.
6. Africa (TOTO)
There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do ”
Song information
| ArtistTOTO | ReleaseN/A |
| Time04:32 | View1B+ |
| Likes 5M+ | SuitableClassic Rock Enthusiasts |
| AlbumToto IVListen on Spotify | |
- Rock Classic
- Pop rock
- 80s Rock
- Soft rock
- Classic rock
"Africa" by Toto, a timeless classic from 1982, is a genre-bending masterpiece that seamlessly blends elements of rock, pop, and even a touch of African-inspired instrumentation. The song's infectious rhythm and soaring melodies create a vibrant, adventurous vibe that perfectly complements travel footage.
As the iconic synth riff opens the song, it's like being transported to a sun-drenched savanna, imagining vast landscapes, majestic wildlife, and a sense of limitless exploration. Lyrics like "I bless the rains down in Africa" evoke images of lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls, while the chorus's powerful vocals, "I know that I must do what's right," suggest a journey of self-discovery and a yearning for a new perspective. This evocative combination of sounds and imagery makes "Africa" an ideal choice for travel reels that capture the spirit of adventure, whether it's a road trip montage, a sunset over the ocean, or a city exploration.
7. Mr. Brightside (The Killers - 1970)
Swimming through sick lullabies ”
Song information
| ArtistThe Killers | Release2003 |
| Time03:48 | View570M+ |
| Likes 3M+ | Suitableindie music fans |
| AlbumHot FussListen on Spotify | |
- Alternative rock
- Indie Rock
- Alt Rock
- Post-Punk Revival
- The Killers
"Mr. Brightside" by The Killers, a quintessential indie rock anthem, exudes an energy that's as captivating as it is timeless. Often described as a "mood" rather than simply a song, its infectious beat and soaring melodies create a potent cocktail of emotions. Think "The Clash" meets "The Smiths" – a raw, energetic punch layered with melancholic introspection, a perfect balance for capturing the highs and lows of travel.
The lyrics, while dealing with themes of heartbreak and betrayal, resonate with wanderlust, evoking vivid imagery of road trips, late-night cityscapes, and those fleeting moments of joy and uncertainty that define adventure. Imagine a montage of vibrant city lights, a sunset overlooking a vast landscape, or a carefree dance in a foreign land, all set to the unforgettable chorus of "Coming out of my cage, and I've been doing just fine." This song's versatility lends itself to a variety of travel reels, from fast-paced montages showcasing the thrill of exploration to slower, more introspective pieces capturing the beauty of solitude and discovery.
8. Viva La Vida (2008)
Seas would rise when I gave the word ”
Song information
| ArtistColdplay | Release2008 |
| Time04:03 | View925M+ |
| Likes 5M+ | SuitableIndie lovers |
| AlbumViva La Vida or Death and All His FriendsListen on Spotify | |
- Alternative rock
- Piano Ballad
- Indie Rock
- Baroque pop
- Art rock
With its soaring strings and driving drumbeat, "Viva La Vida" by Coldplay evokes a sense of epic adventure, perfect for showcasing vibrant travel footage. The song's anthemic quality, combined with lyrics that paint vivid imagery of grand landscapes and historical moments, creates a powerful backdrop for your travel reels. Imagine showcasing breathtaking sunsets over majestic mountains, bustling cityscapes filled with vibrant life, or even a montage of adventurous road trips, all set to the dramatic crescendo of this iconic Coldplay track.
This song, with its grand orchestration and powerful message of hope and resilience, transcends mere background music and adds a layer of depth and emotion to your travel content. The song's anthemic quality makes it perfect for capturing the exhilaration of new experiences, while its melancholy undertones offer a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of time and the beauty found in every journey. Whether you're showcasing a road trip across the American West or a journey through the ancient ruins of Europe, "Viva La Vida" will elevate your travel reels to a new level of cinematic storytelling.
9. Tongue Tied (Never Trust a Happy Song)
Going 'round this roundabout ”
Song information
| ArtistGROUPLOVE | ReleaseN/A |
| Time04:15 | View40M+ |
| Likes 542K+ | SuitableDreamers |
| AlbumNever Trust a Happy SongListen on Spotify | |
- Dance-pop
- Indie Pop
- Alternative rock
- Indie Rock
- Feel-Good Vibes
"Tongue Tied" by Grouplove is a quintessential indie rock track that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of adventure. With its upbeat tempo and infectious melody, the song evokes a vibrant, nostalgic feeling that's ideal for travel reels. Its lyrics paint a picture of youthful exploration and the joy of shared experiences, featuring evocative lines like "We're all tongue-tied, we're all tongue-tied, baby, we're all tongue-tied," which resonate with the feeling of being lost in the moment and embracing new experiences.
The song's sunny disposition and upbeat energy make it a perfect fit for various travel reels. Think scenic road trip montages, vibrant cityscapes, or sunset shots at the beach – "Tongue Tied" will instantly add a layer of fun and excitement to your footage. It's a song that captures the essence of young, free-spirited adventure, making it an ideal choice for travel reels that seek to evoke a sense of wonder and excitement.
10. Island In The Sun (Weezer)
You can't find the words to say ”
Song information
| ArtistWeezer | ReleaseN/A |
| Time03:21 | View75M+ |
| Likes 829K+ | SuitableAdolescentes |
| AlbumWeezerListen on Spotify | |
- Alternative rock
- Pop rock
- Power Pop
- Indie Rock
- Surf Rock
"Island in the Sun" by Weezer is a classic upbeat pop song with a distinctly sunny and carefree vibe that instantly transports listeners to a place of joy and relaxation. Its infectious melody and positive lyrics paint vivid images of carefree days spent basking in the warmth of sunshine, making it an ideal choice for travel reels that capture the essence of adventure and exploration.
The song's upbeat tempo and catchy guitar riffs are particularly well-suited for capturing the energy of road trips, cityscapes, and scenic drives. Imagine the opening chords echoing through the car window as you cruise down a winding coastal road, or the chorus playing as you capture a stunning sunset over a bustling city. "Island in the Sun" is a versatile track that can enhance the mood of any travel reel, regardless of the destination or the style of travel.
11. Good Life (Waking Up)
Found myself in the city near Piccadilly ”
Song information
| ArtistOneRepublic | Release2011 |
| Time04:09 | View222M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableTeenagers |
| AlbumWaking UpListen on Spotify | |
- Pop rock
- Positive Vibes
- Upbeat
- OneRepublic
- Inspiring
"Good Life" by OneRepublic, a chart-topping hit from their 2010 album "Waking Up," is a vibrant pop rock anthem with a carefree and optimistic vibe that makes it perfect for travel reels. The song's infectious melody and uplifting lyrics create a sense of adventure and excitement, perfectly capturing the spirit of exploration and discovery.
Listeners often associate "Good Life" with the feeling of being young and free, and it's the perfect soundtrack for capturing the highs and lows of a journey. The lyrics "It's a good life, it's a good life" feel like a joyous affirmation of life's experiences, while the visual imagery of "driving with the windows down, the radio on," conjures up a sense of freedom and open roads. This song works incredibly well for montages of road trips, sunset shots, and other visually stunning travel footage.
12. Electric Feel (MGMT)
Song information
| ArtistMGMT | ReleaseN/A |
| Time03:49 | View176M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableJóvenes |
| AlbumOracular SpectacularListen on Spotify | |
- Dance-pop
- Indie Pop
- Dream pop
- Indie Rock
- Electropop
"Electric Feel" by MGMT is a vibrant indie pop anthem bursting with energy and a touch of playful quirkiness. The song's infectious synth melodies and driving beat instantly transport you to a world of carefree exploration and adventure. Imagine cruising down a winding road with the windows down, the sun setting over a vast landscape, or dancing under a starry sky – "Electric Feel" captures the essence of those moments perfectly.
The lyrics, filled with imagery of "glowing light" and "sparkling stars," evoke a sense of wonder and excitement. The song's infectious energy makes it a perfect choice for travel reels showcasing vibrant cityscapes, scenic road trips, or epic adventures. It's a soundtrack that captures the feeling of liberation and the joy of embracing the unknown, making it a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of cool and energy to their travel content.
13. Adventure of a Lifetime (Coldplay)
"Everythin' you want's a dream away ”
Song information
| ArtistColdplay | ReleaseN/A |
| Time05:16 | View2B+ |
| Likes 6M+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumA Head Full of DreamsListen on Spotify | |
'Adventure of a Lifetime' by Coldplay is a vibrant and infectious pop anthem that perfectly captures the spirit of exploration and adventure. Its upbeat, disco-infused rhythm instantly sets a carefree and energetic tone, making it ideal for travel reels showcasing vibrant cityscapes, scenic road trips, or exhilarating outdoor activities.
Lyrics like "Turn your magic on to me, she'd say, everything you want is a dream away" and "Under this pressure, under this weight, we are diamonds," evoke a sense of liberation and determination, perfectly mirroring the feeling of escaping routine and embracing new experiences. The repetitive "alive again" chorus, layered with energetic beats and driving guitar riffs, creates a powerful sense of rejuvenation, making it an ideal soundtrack for celebrating the joy of travel and discovering the world. The song's positive energy and uplifting lyrics make it a perfect choice for capturing the excitement of any travel adventure.
14. Home
Not the way that I do love you ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistEdward Sharpe , The Magnetic Zeros | Release2009 |
| Time05:07 | View197M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableN/a |
'Home' by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros is an indie folk anthem brimming with a joyous, adventurous spirit, making it a perfect fit for travel reels. Its infectious melody and uplifting lyrics paint vivid pictures of exploration and togetherness, capturing the essence of wanderlust. The song's use of whistling adds a whimsical touch, while the duet vocals between Alex Ebert and Jade Castrinos evoke a sense of shared joy and discovery.
Imagine using 'Home' to soundtrack a road trip montage, showcasing scenic drives through rolling hills or bustling cityscapes. The song's cheerful energy could also complement sunset shots on beaches, capturing the golden hour's beauty and the feeling of freedom that comes with travel. With its optimistic message of finding home in each other, 'Home' is a powerful soundtrack for celebrating life's adventures, no matter where they take you.
15. Walking on a Dream (Empire Of The Sun - 1970)
Always pushing up the hill, searching for the thrill of it ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistEmpire Of The Sun | Release2008 |
| Time03:20 | View246M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableN/a |
'Walking on a Dream' by Empire of the Sun is a vibrant, synth-pop anthem that instantly transports you to a world of adventure and escapism. The song's infectious energy and soaring melodies evoke images of open roads, shimmering cityscapes, and the intoxicating freedom of travel. Imagine the iconic synth riff paired with shots of a scenic drive through winding mountain roads, or a bustling cityscape coming alive at night. The song's optimistic feel makes it perfect for showcasing moments of pure joy and discovery on your travel reels.
The lyrics, like "Walking on a dream" and "Lost in the city," further emphasize the themes of exploration and new experiences. It would seamlessly blend with montages of bustling markets, hidden cafes, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're creating a montage of your latest road trip, showcasing the vibrant culture of a new city, or capturing the magic of a sunset on the beach, 'Walking on a Dream' will add an undeniable energy and sense of wonder to your travel reels.
16. You Make My Dreams (Hall ft Oates)
But like the flame that burns the candle ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistHall , Oates | Release1980 |
| Time03:04 | View65M+ |
| Likes 601K+ | SuitableN/a |
'You Make My Dreams' by Hall & Oates is a timeless classic that perfectly captures the carefree and adventurous spirit of travel. This upbeat pop track, with its infectious melody and soulful vocals, evokes images of open roads, sunny skies, and endless possibilities. The song's driving rhythm and soaring chorus, combined with lyrics like "You make my dreams come true," create a sense of pure joy and excitement that's perfect for capturing the essence of a memorable trip.
Think of using 'You Make My Dreams' to set the tone for a road trip montage, a vibrant city exploration reel, or even a montage of sunset beach scenes. The song's cheerful energy will instantly uplift your audience, transporting them to the heart of your travel adventures. Whether you're showcasing breathtaking landscapes or capturing spontaneous moments with friends, this enduring classic is sure to add a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your travel reels.
17. Explore the World (Brainheart ft Sis - 1970)
In your way ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistBrainheart, Sis | Release2019 |
| Time03:06 | View840K+ |
| Likes 17K+ | SuitableN/a |
"Explore the World" by Brainheart, featuring Sis, is an infectious Dance & EDM track that embodies the adventurous spirit of travel. With its driving beat and uplifting melodies, the song instantly evokes a feeling of freedom and excitement, perfect for capturing the vibrant energy of your travel reels. The lyrics, filled with evocative imagery like "explore the world in your way" and "create memories that you won't forget," inspire viewers to embrace the unknown and cherish every moment of their journeys.
This song has become a popular choice for travel reels due to its ability to connect with a wide range of travel experiences. Whether you're showcasing a road trip through breathtaking landscapes, a city adventure filled with bustling energy, or a serene sunset by the beach, "Explore the World" provides a soundtrack that complements the visual narrative and creates a lasting impression on your audience.
18. Magic Moments - 1970
Song information
| ArtistAustin Farwell | Release2020 |
| Time01:33 | View315K+ |
| Likes 9K+ | SuitableN/a |
Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? 'Magic Moments' by Austin Farwell is exactly that kind of song. This instrumental piece, released in June 2022, effortlessly blends elements of ambient and neo-classical music to create a soothing soundscape that evokes a sense of wonder and tranquility. The gentle piano chords build with an almost cinematic quality, allowing the listener to imagine scenes of sprawling landscapes, bustling city streets, or serene beaches.
'Magic Moments' is a perfect addition to travel reels that showcase the beauty and diverse experiences found throughout the world. The song's uplifting, yet serene, nature complements a variety of footage – think vibrant road trip montages, sun-kissed sunsets over the ocean, or even a montage of iconic landmarks. With its melodic simplicity and emotionally evocative chords, this track is sure to transport viewers into the world of your travel adventures, leaving a lasting impression of calm and inspiration.
19. Fly Away (2019)
If you and I would fly away together ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistChantelle Berry | Release2019 |
| Time03:05 | View10K+ |
| Likes 55+ | SuitableN/a |
From the very first notes of "Fly Away" by Chantelle Berry, you're transported to a world of carefree adventure. This uplifting pop song is a perfect blend of soulful vocals and infectious melodies, creating a vibrant energy that's ideal for capturing the spirit of travel. The lyrics, filled with imagery of escape and shared experiences, evoke a feeling of longing for a place where dreams can take flight. Picture yourself soaring above city skylines, exploring hidden beaches, or driving down open roads with the wind in your hair - "Fly Away" perfectly complements these scenes.
The song's soaring chorus, with its infectious beat and hopeful lyrics, is a natural fit for a travel montage. Whether you're showcasing a whirlwind trip through Europe, a road trip across the American West, or a relaxing beach vacation, this track adds an element of dreamy escapism to your travel reel. It's also a great choice for those heart-warming moments of connection with loved ones, adding a touch of romance to your footage. With its ability to evoke emotions and capture the essence of travel, "Fly Away" is sure to elevate your next travel reel to new heights.
20. A Sunny Day with You (Dean Wagg - 1970)
Song information
| ArtistDean Wagg | Release2020 |
| Time02:14 | View7K+ |
| Likes 31+ | SuitableN/a |
"A Sunny Day with You" by Dean Wagg is an infectious blend of upbeat pop and indie folk, perfect for capturing the carefree spirit of travel. The song's bouncy melody, infused with a touch of nostalgia, paints a vivid picture of a carefree road trip under a brilliant blue sky. The lyrics, filled with imagery of open roads and endless possibilities, evoke a sense of adventure and discovery that perfectly complements travel footage.
Think of "A Sunny Day with You" as the soundtrack to a vibrant montage of cityscapes, oceanfront sunsets, or road trip scenery. It's a song that can easily elevate any travel reel, transforming it into a captivating visual story. Whether you're showcasing a breathtaking sunset over a bustling city or the joy of exploring a new country, this feel-good anthem will add a layer of warmth and charm to your video, leaving viewers longing for their own sun-drenched adventures.