Top 5 Travel Shows That Will Make You Pack Your Bags Tonight

Top 5 Travel Shows That Will Make You Pack Your Bags Tonight

There’s something magical about travel shows—they can transport you to distant lands, inspire unforgettable adventures, and leave you dreaming of distant horizons. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or someone who’s only explored their own backyard, these shows have the power to reignite your wanderlust. From breathtaking landscapes to heartwarming encounters with locals, each episode feels like a mini-vacation. If you’re in need of a travel fix, these five shows are guaranteed to have you reaching for your suitcase before the credits roll.

1. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown – A Feast for the Senses

Few travel shows left as lasting an impact as Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown. The late chef and storyteller took viewers on a journey beyond the usual tourist traps, diving deep into the heart of cultures through food, people, and unscripted conversations. Whether he was eating street food in Vietnam, sharing a meal with locals in Libya, or sipping wine in a tiny Italian village, Bourdain’s raw authenticity made every episode feel personal. His ability to connect with strangers over a shared plate of food was a masterclass in humanity, proving that travel is as much about the people you meet as the places you visit.

What makes this show a must-watch:

• Authentic storytelling: No staged performances—just real, unfiltered moments.
• Culinary adventures: Food as a gateway to understanding a culture.
• Off-the-beaten-path destinations: Bourdain avoided clichés, leading viewers to hidden gems.

If you’ve ever wanted to ditch the guidebook and dive into the soul of a destination, this show is your ticket.

2. The Trip – A British Comedy with Unintentional Wanderlust

At first glance, The Trip seems like a lighthearted comedy about two friends—played by Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon—traveling through Northern England and Italy. But beneath the humor lies a love letter to travel itself. The show’s charm comes from its simplicity: two men exploring quirky B&Bs, indulging in local delicacies, and engaging in hilarious, often competitive banter. The beauty of The Trip is that it doesn’t rely on exotic locations or dramatic storylines. Instead, it celebrates the joy of small adventures—whether it’s a perfectly brewed cup of tea or a competitive taste test of olive oils.

Why you’ll want to book a trip after watching:

• Relatable travel vibes: No five-star resorts here—just charming, slightly run-down lodgings.
• Foodie escapism: The meals alone will make you crave a spontaneous weekend getaway.
• Warm, witty performances: Coogan and Brydon’s chemistry is a joy to watch.

It’s the kind of show that makes you want to hit the road, even if it’s just for a local food crawl.

3. Departures – The Ultimate Road Trip Series

Departures, a Canadian production, is a travel show with a difference. Hosted by the charismatic duo of Scott Wilson and Justin Lukach, the series follows their epic road trips across continents in a 1960s Volkswagen van. What sets Departures apart is its focus on the journey itself, not just the destination. Wilson and Lukach immerse themselves in local communities, take on challenges like participating in a traditional festival in Bolivia or learning to fish in Iceland, and share their experiences with a raw honesty that feels like traveling with a close friend.

Why this show will have you searching for flights:

• Slow travel at its best: No rushing from one landmark to the next—just savoring the ride.
• Cultural immersion: The hosts don’t just visit places; they live them.
• Stunning cinematography: Every episode feels like a travel documentary you can’t pause.

If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your car keys into an adventure, Departures is the show that will push you to finally do it.

4. An Idiot Abroad – Travel with a Side of Humiliation

For those who enjoy travel shows with a healthy dose of comedy and cringe, An Idiot Abroad delivers. The premise is simple: Karl Pilkington, a man with little interest in travel, is sent around the world to complete a bucket list of experiences—from climbing Mount Fuji to visiting the Great Wall of China. What makes the show so entertaining (and oddly inspiring) is Pilkington’s deadpan reactions to everything. His lack of pretension and refusal to conform to traditional traveler expectations make for hilarious moments, but it also highlights how travel isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about embracing the unexpected.

Why you’ll laugh and then book a ticket:

• Anti-travel humor: Pilkington’s indifference is oddly refreshing in a world of over-the-top travel influencers.
• Unexpected destinations: The show takes you to places you’d never consider on your own.
• Self-discovery through travel: Pilkington’s journey is a reminder that travel is what you make of it.

If you’ve ever wanted to see the world without the pressure of being a “perfect” traveler, this show is for you.

5. Our Planet – A Visual Masterpiece for Nature Lovers

While not a traditional travel show, Our Planet on Netflix is a must-watch for anyone who craves adventure and a deeper connection to the natural world. Narrated by David Attenborough, this eight-part series showcases the Earth’s most breathtaking landscapes—from the frozen tundras of the Arctic to the vibrant coral reefs of the Pacific. The show’s stunning 4K cinematography makes you feel as though you’re standing right there, witnessing wildlife in its most raw and unfiltered state. More than just a documentary, Our Planet is a call to action, reminding viewers of the fragility of our planet and the importance of conservation.

Why this show will make you crave exploration:

• Breathtaking visuals: Every frame is a masterpiece worthy of a gallery wall.
• Educational and inspiring: Learn about ecosystems while being transported to remote corners of the globe.
• Emotional storytelling: Attenborough’s narration adds a poetic layer to the natural world.

If you’ve ever wanted to swap your city skyline for a mountain peak or a jungle canopy, Our Planet will solidify that urge.

Final Thoughts: Let the Wanderlust Begin

Travel shows do more than entertain—they awaken a sense of possibility. Whether it’s through the lens of a food-obsessed chef, a reluctant adventurer, or a nature documentary, these shows remind us that the world is vast, beautiful, and waiting to be explored. So, the next time you find yourself scrolling mindlessly through your phone, consider pressing play on one of these series. Before you know it, you’ll be packing your bags, double-checking your passport, and dreaming of the next destination on your list.

Which of these shows will you watch first? Or maybe you already have a favorite travel show that didn’t make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear where your wanderlust takes you!