The Best Travel Blogs from Real Travelers, Ranked

Travel blogs have become a rich source of inspiration for wanderlust-stricken readers, offering a window to the world through authentic experiences and practical advice. With so much travel content available online, it can be overwhelming to find blogs that stand out for their originality, depth, and expertise. If you’re a globetrotter or a dreamer planning your next adventure, this curated list of the best travel blogs showcases voices from real travelers whose stories, tips, and reviews are making waves in the travel community. From solo explorers to family vacationers and budget-conscious adventurers, these blogs capture the full spectrum of today’s travel experiences. 

What Makes a Travel Blog Stand Out? 

Before we jump into our rankings, it’s important to recognize what makes a truly exceptional travel blog. While stunning photography and eye-catching visuals are certainly attention-grabbing, the heart of a travel blog lies in its storytelling. Readers return to trusted blogs not only for inspiration but for detailed advice, itineraries, and tips that improve their own trips. These blogs often blend personal anecdotes with actionable information, all while capturing the pulse of cultures and places from around the globe. The blogs featured below check all these boxes and more. They are run by passionate individuals who go the extra mile (often literally) to connect with their audiences. 

The Best Travel Blogs to Bookmark 

Nomadic Matt 

Nomadic Matt is considered one of the pioneers of travel blogging and for good reason. Matt Kepnes started his blog as a budget traveler, sharing how he explored the world while keeping costs low. Over time, his site has grown into an invaluable resource for budget-conscious travelers, offering advice on flights, accommodation, and how to make travel more accessible for everyone. What sets Nomadic Matt apart is his ability to demystify travel for beginners while still offering value to seasoned wanderers. With comprehensive guides on popular destinations, insider tips, and a clear focus on affordable yet meaningful experiences, Nomadic Matt remains a favorite among the travel community. 

The Blonde Abroad 

Kiersten Rich, the creator of The Blonde Abroad, caters to female wanderers looking to balance luxury with adventure. What started as a personal travel journal has evolved into a vibrant destination full of curated recommendations, packing guides, travel itineraries, and even photography tips. The Blonde Abroad focuses heavily on empowering solo female travelers and includes specialized advice for them, such as building confidence while traveling alone and navigating cultures and customs safely. Kiersten’s blog is tailored to inspire a sense of wanderlust while celebrating unique experiences. 

Expert Vagabond 

Matthew Karsten, the voice behind Expert Vagabond, brings travel storytelling to a whole new level. His blog leans into adventure travel, capturing the wild and rugged side of global exploration. Whether hiking through the Amazon rainforest or scuba-diving with sharks, his posts immerse readers in experiences that may feel out of reach but are articulated in a relatable way. What truly shines in Expert Vagabond is the emphasis on storytelling. Detailed narratives transport you to his most unforgettable moments, while vibrant photography captures the heart of his adventurous spirit. It’s a destination for armchair travelers and thrill-seekers alike. 

Hey Nadine 

Nadine Sykora, the blogger behind Hey Nadine, brings an approachable, down-to-earth tone to travel blogging. A blend of storytelling and travel hacks makes her content especially engaging. Nadine doesn’t just document places but provides honest reviews, reflections, and practical advice based on her extensive experiences. Hey Nadine stands out for its accessibility. Whether you're looking for what to pack, insider tips for navigating airports, or location-specific dos and don’ts, this blog provides genuinely helpful content. Combined with her YouTube channel, Nadine has cultivated an audience that values both her humor and expertise. 

A Broken Backpack 

Run by Melissa Giroux, A Broken Backpack focuses on slow travel and working as a digital nomad. Melissa shares her experiences as a Canadian traveler sustaining a life on the road while exploring on a budget. Her content appeals to aspiring long-term travelers and professionals seeking remote opportunities overseas. Readers praise A Broken Backpack for covering niche advice, such as saving on visas, hunting for local job opportunities, and tips for living sustainably while traveling. Melissa’s authenticity makes her content relatable, especially for readers unsure about making the leap into long-term travel. 

Legal Nomads 

Jodi Ettenberg’s Legal Nomads is the perfect marriage of storytelling, cultural insight, and food. A former lawyer, Jodi transitioned into full-time travel, documenting her journeys with a focus on food culture. Fans of immersive content will appreciate her unique lens on how food connects people across the world. What makes Legal Nomads so compelling is Jodi’s attention to detail and her willingness to discuss the vulnerabilities and challenges of long-term exploration. While health challenges have reshaped her travels, her blog still serves as a wellspring of inspiration. 

Wandering Earl 

Earl Baron, also known as Wandering Earl, epitomizes the long-term traveler. Having been on the road since 1999, Earl is one of the most experienced bloggers in the travel community. His site focuses on practical advice for sustainable travel, which includes topics such as navigating the world on a budget, finding meaningful work abroad, and managing culture shock. His authentic, no-frills style appeals to readers who value substance over style. Wandering Earl serves as a treasure trove for future travelers and a lifeline for those seeking unconventional paths in life. 

How to Choose Your Go-To Travel Blog 

When deciding which travel blogs to follow, consider your own goals. Are you planning a bucket-list trip or looking for travel tips tailored to digital nomads? Do you value storytelling over quick-hitting advice? Knowing what you need will help you find a blog that resonates. Most importantly, travel blogs are more than just photos of exotic destinations. They’re about connecting people through shared experiences and offering trusted advice that can transform your adventures. 

Start Exploring With Curated Tips 

The world of travel blogging is vast, but starting with trusted and authentic voices can enrich your own travel experiences. Each blog mentioned here brings something unique to the table, whether it’s budget travel, luxury escapades, or remarkable cultural insights. Remember, the joy of travel often starts long before you pack your bags. Use these blogs as steppingstones to plan journeys that inspire you, challenge you, and leave lasting memories.