Best Travel Podcasts for 2026: Top 15 Shows Reviewed
In Bhutan recording a podcast interview
The travel podcast world has absolutely exploded over the last few years. With more storytellers, digital nomads, and adventurers sharing their experiences than ever before, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why I've put together this handpicked list of the best travel podcasts heading into 2026.
These shows consistently deliver great stories, practical advice, honest perspectives, and that wonderful feeling of being transported somewhere new. Whether you're into budget travel, cultural deep dives, long-form interviews, solo travel reflections, or just want an audio escape for your commute, there's something here for you.
Important note: All podcasts on this list are active and have released episodes within the last two months.
15. The Globetrotters Podcast
Hosts: Jonathan Otero and Chelsea Pelsone
Why it stands out: This show feels broad and adventurous, featuring stories from all over the world with reflections from different types of travellers. If you want that classic storytelling, tips and tricks, guest-focused podcast, this is the one to check out. In terms of a long-format interview style in travel podcasts, Globetrotters is very close to Winging It. We love conversing over travel and giving enough time to recollect stories and provide valuable tips.
Perfect for: Anyone looking for practical tips and inspiring guest interviews from the travel industry.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/globetrotters-podcast/id1578352605
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/3RpHHfbJDcL5xMKtlyptho?si=a1fa29b216dd4d94
14. Japan Experts: Effortless Planning and Immersive Travel
Host: Miyuki Suguchi
Why it stands out: Miyuki is a Japanese native who brings insider knowledge about travelling in Japan responsibly. She offers immersive cultural insights, advice on planning, budgeting, and pro tips to make your trip smoother and more authentic. Can you beat a local guide providing tips and information on their own country? Absolutely not! This is why I love this podcast when I want to learn about Japan.
Perfect for: Introverts planning a trip to Japan, and anyone who finds Japan travel overwhelming.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/japan-experts-effortless-planning-immersive-travel/id1525719412
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/0v7n6fhHKmaHTRoj782cey?si=37f46aaf9cf34928
Bonus: Miyuki was a guest on Winging It (Episode 108), where we discussed Japan, her tours, and her podcast.
13. The Thoughtful Travel Podcast
The Thoughtful Travel Podcast Logo
Host: Amanda Kendle
Why it stands out: This podcast is all about meaningful, intentional, and responsible travel. Amanda explores topics like travel privilege, making conscious decisions, and choosing experiences that truly matter in the places you visit. In an age of travel where more people are analysing how they travel, what the best travel practices are and how to enhance the place they travel in, Amanda has been ahead of the game speaking on this topic for years! I love this show!
Perfect for: Travellers who want to ensure they're travelling ethically and making a positive impact.
Stats: Over 300 episodes and consistently ranked highly in the travel podcast charts.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-thoughtful-travel-podcast/id1269489189
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/3AwRGIPRytKa9Txnz1cGBK?si=33b8ef950dc14262
12. Travel Mug Podcast
Hosts: Meggan and Jenn
Why it stands out: Fellow Canadian travel podcasters have a very casual, laid-back style. They grab a mug of tea or coffee and discuss travel subjects or interview guests. It's narrative-focused with personal reflections and cultural insights that feel like chatting with a friend. I love their episodes on Canadian travel as they share all about the best spots to see in this huge country we call home. They are both also based in Halifax, which is one of my favourite cities to visit in Canada and one day, I would love to live there.
Perfect for: Anyone who loves a chill vibe and wants to hear about various travel styles, from budget backpacking to luxury travel, road trips to bus adventures.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/travel-mug-podcast/id1517301917
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/67uz2O7b6T2Ar7AoOaGyDB?si=21ba8de8aab54946
Bonus: I was a guest on their podcast, discussing my campervan travels. You can find the episode here.
11. Speaking of Travel with Marilyn Ball
Host: Marilyn Ball
Why it stands out: This radio-style podcast interviews travel insiders, experts, explorers, and storytellers, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the industry. Born from a local radio station, it has a unique 10-minute segment structure and is part of the iHeart Radio family. Marilyn is based out of Asheville in North Carolina, and I love hearing stories from her own travels as well as guests who appear on the show. I love the format too!
Perfect for: Listeners who enjoy radio-style content and industry insights from well-travelled hosts.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/speaking-of-travel-with-marilyn-ball/id1375022004
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/3BSxMs1tYbVmdO6pDhXaik?si=e26f5da63a0d4829
Bonus: Like on many other travel podcasts, I was a guest on this one, too, and you can listen to my chat here. I would implore you to check out Marilyn’s website here, as it is one of the best out there for a travel podcast.
10. Travel Squad Podcast
Travel Squad Podcast Artwork
Hosts: Kim, Brittanie, and Jamal
Why it stands out: Conversational, friendly, energetic, and not too PC. These friends talk about travel advice, destination picks, and personal travel stories in a relaxed style. They focus on maximising vacation time for full-time workers. I love their casual, fun vibe when discussing travel, and they sit in that rare space within travel podcasts where they discuss their trips as friends and can banter off stories as well as top tips. I have never met these guys in real life, but I would love to sit down and have a beer, discussing travels with these guys; it would be super fun. Get listening and get some fun into your travel planning.
Perfect for: People who want to make the most of limited vacation time (4-6 weeks a year) rather than long-term backpacking content or slow travel.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/travel-squad-podcast/id1475430837
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/527tJ72tqUUngPXGDvg5UE?si=dce9afc6354f47b8
9. Women Who Travel | Condé Nast Traveller
Host: Lale Arikoglu
Why it stands out: Though travel and adventure have historically been publicly claimed by men, women have always been part of those narratives, too. Each week, host and Condé Nast Traveler editor Lale Arikoglu shines a light on some of those stories, interviewing female-identifying guests about their most unique travel tales—from going off-grid in the Danish wilderness to country-hopping solo—sharing her own experiences travelling around the globe, and tapping listeners to contribute their own memorable stories. I interviewed Kate Wills about her book, A Trip of One’s Own, which is all about the female travellers in history and since then, I have made an effort to understand more from the female perspective within travel. This podcast massively helps with this subject too, and it is so important in this space of travel podcasts.
Perfect for: This is a podcast for anyone curious about the world—and excited to explore places both near and far from home.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/women-who-travel-cond%C3%A9-nast-traveler/id1321118314
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/1dsEZzPALlIJd3alINK6Iz?si=f80c633c3ae84fb5
8. Travel with Rick Steves
Travel With Rick Steves Podcast Artwork
Host: Rick Steves
Why it stands out: A true classic. Rick shares deep insights into European destinations, uncovering cultural history and giving you travel context so you don't just see a place but understand it. Incredibly consistent with a massive amount of content. I am also super interested in his Hippy Trails stories, so I have started reading his book called Rick Steves On The Hippy Trail, as I love nostalgia from that period in the 1970s. Rick is extensively travelled, so any content from podcasts to books will get the travel juices flowing!
Perfect for: Anyone wanting to learn about Europe (and increasingly other destinations) from one of the most respected names in travel.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/travel-with-rick-steves/id79063354
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/0I1pp5p6DFR4jzDjkVfIj3?si=50ba904cde48433b
Bonus: Check out his Hippie Trail podcast episode for something different!
A Quick Shout-Out to Voyascape Network
Before we continue, I want to mention the Voyascape Network - a network that collates travel podcasts in one place. We have so many different types of travel podcasts covering everything from backpacking to luxury travel, points and miles, responsible travel, recommendations, and stories from travellers around the world. Several podcasts on this list are part of the network! Across the network, we have so much travel experience; there is something for everyone on the network, so be sure to check out our podcasts!
7. Beach Travel Wine Podcast
Hosts: Leanne and Lyle
Why it stands out: These Australians bring classic banter and laid-back vibes. Imagine conversations on a sunny patio about coastal destinations, wine culture, and lifestyle travel that's more about the vibe than the itinerary. I recently met these guys in Queensland, Australia, for a day trip in Noosa. They are super fun to hang out with and spend a lot of their time travelling to Europe. They position themselves for the older generation who are looking to get away to sunnier climes, and not just the generic places everyone travels to. What I love about their podcast is the little places I have never heard of, and with their strong reel game on Instagram, it makes me want to travel to somewhere not on my list. That is the whole point of a travel podcast!
Perfect for: Those interested in Spain, Portugal, and Western Europe, particularly an older demographic or people looking to chill out in beautiful places around the world.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/beach-travel-wine-podcast/id1638075234
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/3WbQWXzZsY5ok0Bk2mZdHK?si=dac829f7fead426a
Bonus: These guys have been a guest on Winging It, and you can check out their episode here.
6. Tripology Travel Podcast
Tripology: Travel Podcast Artwork
Hosts: Alun and Adam
Why it stands out: One of those rare travel podcasts recorded ON THE ROAD. These guys share honest travel stories, planning advice, and the ups and downs of long-term or spontaneous travel, including budget advice and hostel life. Believe it or not, travel podcasts that actually travel are quite rare. I did it in 2023 for a year, and it was challenging, but hugely rewarding as it was great to podcast as I travelled. These guys are fully nomadic, broadcasting from around the world. I love their funny anecdotes and real-life backpacking stories; we are from the same generation of travellers, so I feel I have a lot in common with these guys when speaking about travel.
Perfect for: Anyone who wants authentic, real-time travel content from podcasters actively travelling the world.
Currently, Adam is in New Zealand, and Alun is in Southeast Asia.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/tripology-travel-podcast/id1660283803
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/6KInaoEAvcFLbaSm9KjQqf?si=ba0979352aea45d9
5. Travel In 10 Podcast
Hosts: David Brodie and Tim Johnson
Why it stands out: No messing about - 10 to 15-minute episodes that get straight to the point. Travel inspiration, cool hotels, restaurants, festivals, and travel tips in quick, easy hits. David and Tim have travelled extensively throughout the globe, with Tim being a travel writer himself. For recommendations across the board, these guys are the people you should go to, and it won’t affect your day, as their episodes are super short. To add, they are one of the first travel podcasts, ever! So they experience is second to none when it comes to travel and travel podcasting.
Perfect for: Busy people who want quality travel advice without the time commitment.
Experience: Tim has travelled to over 150 countries, and David has visited 60+.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/travel-in-10-travel-podcast/id83260487
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/2tGNCTTwTpENGF6ywy9IFE?si=f6d08ed233204ebd
4. The Culture Cult Travel Show
Culture Cult Travel Show artwork
Host: Marie Walker
Why it stands out: A wild, no-holds-barred podcast diving into crazy, weird, and little-known stories from every country. Think untold histories, outrageous travel adventures, and cultural oddities you've never heard of before. My friend Marie puts a lot of effort into this podcast to provide entertaining stories from each place she discusses on her podcast. I love the fact that she combines travel stories from guests and the history of each place into one episode. What makes it even better is that it is hilarious, and I love Marie’s outgoing, fun personality. A must for someone who wants to learn and laugh at the same time.
Perfect for: People who love a mix of comedy, history, and travel with lots of laughs and no rules.
Bonus: Marie also hosts "Your Media" about being a digital nomad and running your own business on the road.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/culture-cult-travel-show/id1603662928
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/6Gfk2meDfzfmJIxybvoE6c?si=649d7cb4aa7f41d0
3. Curious Tourism
Host: Erin Hynes and Producer Kattie Laur
Why it stands out: All about responsible travel. They lead conversations on sustainable tourism, travel privilege, dark tourism, modern tourism, animal tourism, and the real impact we have when we travel. This is one of the first travel podcasts I started to listen to, as I love the way Erin engages with the guest/s with important questions about a particular topic in travel. This is not a podcast where anyone can be a guest; Erin and Kattie specifically research and pitch to guests who have opinions on an important topic in responsible travel. They are both based out of Toronto in Canada, and I love supporting fellow Canadian travel podcasters.
Perfect for: Anyone who cares about travel that leaves more than just footprints.
Related content: Check out Erin's blog, Pina Travels, for even more sustainable travel content and tips on many countries around the world.
My take: This is my go-to barometer for travelling sustainably and responsibly.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/curious-tourism-responsible-travel-podcast/id1449041086
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/0cHtHbMFCk7DOTb9j4CfqI?si=545d46fa982a4441
2. The Armchair Explorer
Host: Aaron Millar
Why it stands out: The GOAT! Hands down, one of the most influential travel podcasts for immersive storytelling and the most influential on me as a travel podcaster. Aaron curates stories from real-world adventurers with incredible sound design that makes you feel like you're actually there. The way Aaron and his team curate stories, transport you to the place they are discussing and bring you along for forty minutes is nothing short of storytelling genius. I just love this podcast. You have to check it out if you need or want wanderlust. Maybe one day, I can appear on the podcast with my travels.
Perfect for: Anyone who wants cinematic, immersive travel experiences through audio with unreal stories.
What makes it special:
Authentic storytelling from real adventurers
Top-notch sound design
Clear, concise interview-style narratives
Big picture explorations that go beyond just "where to go"
My take: This podcast inspired me to create my own immersive episodes. It's the gold standard for travel storytelling.
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/armchair-explorer-travel-and-adventure-inspiration/id1495103557
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/1woeckvcWBMGEauAFhIl1k?si=332517388ba94b52
Want to hear more from Aaron? Check out his interview on Winging It, you won’t regret it! Part 1is here and Part 2 is here.
1. Winging It Travel Podcast
Host: James Hammond (that's me!)
Why it stands out: Real travel stories brought to life with solo backpacking tips, digital nomad insights, off-the-beaten-path adventures, practical hacks, and honest, raw, unpredictable content - exactly how I travel.
Perfect for: Travellers, dreamers, backpackers, and anyone who's ever thought "what if I just went for it and travelled?"
What to expect in 2026:
More content recorded on the road in real-time
Three types of episodes: solo commentary, guest interviews, and immersive audio experiences
Coverage of incredible destinations from my personal travels
Releases every Monday - I don't miss an episode!
Coming soon: My Bhutan series in early 2026!
Listen here:
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-travel-podcast/id1559489384
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/6ruzP0SCwPEOIchzbl10P8?si=1f28ae0e48a44137
Final Thoughts
These 15 podcasts represent the best of what the travel podcast world has to offer heading into 2026. Whether you're planning your next adventure, living vicariously through others, or just love hearing great stories, there's something here for everyone.
I'd love to hear from you - what are your favourite travel podcasts? Drop them in the comments or reach out on social media!
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Thanks for reading, and happy travels! See you in 2026 with incredible content coming from around the world.
James Hammond at the Tiger's Nest Monastery in Bhutan, content coming in 2026!