The way people organize their journeys evolved with social media platforms. Tourism planning no longer requires the use of guidebooks together with word-of-mouth recommendations. Travel influencers take up our screens with real-time travel advice and insights into undiscovered locations. From rugged backpackers to luxury seekers, these creators make the world feel smaller—and more accessible. Let’s dive into the ones leading the charge.
Why Travel Influencers Matter Today
Travel influencers aren’t just posting pretty pictures. They’re reshaping tourism. A stunning photo of Bali might convince someone to book a flight. A TikTok video about hidden hikes in Switzerland could inspire a detour. These creators blend storytelling with practicality, offering advice on budgets, safety, and cultural norms. For many, they’ve become trusted guides in a crowded online space.
Best Multi-Channel Influencers
The top travel influencers don’t stick to one platform. They spread their reach across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and blogs. This multi-channel approach lets them connect with diverse audiences. Here are a few standouts:
Jessica Nabongo @jessicanabongo: The first Black woman to visit every country, she shares vibrant stories on Instagram, detailed vlogs on YouTube, and quick tips on TikTok.
Benny Lewis @fluentin3months: A language-learning nomad, he uses blogs, podcasts, and social media to teach travelers how to connect through local dialects.
The Planet D@theplanetd: Married duo Dave and Deb mix adventure travel with eco-conscious advice, balancing Instagram reels with in-depth blog guides.
These traveling influencers prove versatility is key. By adapting content to each platform, they stay relevant and relatable.
YouTube Travel Influencers
YouTube’s long-form style suits deep dives into destinations. Creators here often blend cinematic shots with personal narratives.
This couple started with a goal to visit 100 countries. Now at 6 million subscribers, they document everything from van life to luxury resorts. Their secret? Raw, unfiltered moments—like missed flights or food mishaps—paired with stunning landscapes.
If you love food, Mark’s your guy. His viral “food coma” videos showcase street eats from Thailand to Mexico. His genuine reactions (think: wide-eyed first bites) make viewers feel like they’re right beside him.
Louis Cole’s channel is a mix of spontaneity and activism. He’s sailed across the Pacific, explored Chornobyl, and highlighted social issues in developing nations.
Instagram Travel Influencers
Instagram’s visual focus makes it ideal for wanderlust. These creators master the art of the “Instagrammable” shot.
Famous for his FollowMeTo series, Murad posts photos of his wife leading him to global landmarks. Each image feels like a love letter to both travel and partnership.
Partnered with Jack Morris, Lauren’s account balances fashion and travel. Think flowing dresses on Santorini cliffs or hammocks over Philippine lagoons.
TikTok Travel Influencers
TikTok’s quick clips are perfect for bite-sized inspiration. Trends here spread fast, and traveling influencers ride the wave.
The Gee family sold everything in 2015 to travel full-time. Their posts mix kid-friendly activities (think: swimming with pigs in the Bahamas) with parental hacks, like packing light for four.
A solo mom from Ireland, Kirsty shares tips for budget travel with toddlers. Her honest take on jet lag and picky eaters resonates with stressed parents.
Travel influencers adopted wanderlust for the creation of a universal travel language among their followers. Different users can find content suitable to their preferences on both TikTok through brief quick tips and on YouTube by watching longer documentary-style videos. Beginning your journey starts with finding inspirational leaders to follow through either clicks or steps.