17 Top Travel Influencers to Follow

Brian Kelly

Brian Kelly, the visionary behind The Points Guy (TPG), has revolutionized the way we perceive travel through points and miles. Launching TPG in 2010, Brian transformed his fervor for savvy travel into a leading travel media platform, guiding millions to travel smarter.

His journey from a corporate recruiting role to a celebrated travel influencer is nothing short of inspirational. Under his leadership, TPG has reached a global audience and empowered them to turn their travel aspirations into reality, one point at a time.

Brian's influential approach in the travel industry has garnered significant recognition. He has been celebrated on AdWeek’s Young Influentials list and honored as Forbes’ No. 1 travel influencer.

His contributions have also been acknowledged in Travel + Leisure's Most Notable People in Travel and Out100's lists. The team he meticulously curated at TPG reflects his vision, earning accolades like Webbys, Shortys, and Lovies for their exceptional journalism in written, video, and social media formats, alongside their impactful social work. Brian Kelly isn't just a name in the travel world; he's an example of smarter, more accessible travel.

Eric Stoen

Eric Stoen, the mastermind behind Travel Babbo, is a testament to the transformative power of travel. Once a healthcare professional, Eric's passion for exploration dramatically led him to pivot his career path. In 2014, he took a leap of faith, leaving his job to start a family travel blog driven by his desire to inspire others to embark on adventurous journeys with their children.

With an impressive tally of 101 countries and seven continents under his belt, Eric's travel journey began in his college years, studying in Florence and Heidelberg, and has since evolved into a family affair.

Eric has redefined family vacations by travelling with his wife and three children, ages 13, 16, and 17. Each child, from the age of four, chooses an annual travel destination, leading to extraordinary adventures from Australia to Antarctica. Eric's approach to travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about creating deep, lasting bonds with his children through these shared experiences.

His blog, Travel Babbo, is full of insights and tips accrued from over 800,000 miles of family travel. It's more than a blog; it's a roadmap for families seeking to make the world their playground, one trip at a time.

Johnny Jet

Johnny Jet, a name synonymous with savvy travel, began his journey not in the skies but grounded by a fear of flying. Born in Connecticut, Johnny's early fascination with air travel was dampened at 17 when he was diagnosed with asthma, leading to a fear that kept him earthbound for years. However, at 21, he conquered this fear, marking the start of an incredible transformation from a reluctant traveller to a celebrated travel expert.

Johnny's passion for travel and his competitive spirit led him to start a newsletter, initially aimed at helping friends earn more miles. This small project quickly evolved into the Johnny Jet website, a comprehensive portal designed to make travel more accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their travel frequency.

His site, born from a personal quest to improve his travel experiences, now serves as a first-stop resource for thousands, offering tips, tricks, and insights into smarter, more enjoyable travel.

Zach Honig

Zach Honig, as the Editor-at-Large, brings a dynamic and comprehensive approach to the world of travel journalism. His expertise spans various topics, from in-depth analyses of loyalty programs and credit cards to the exciting realm of delivery flight coverage. Zach's skills extend beyond traditional reporting; he is also adept in drone photography, adding a unique visual dimension to his storytelling.

His work is not just confined to articles; Zach actively shares his adventures on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter, offering followers a glimpse into his travel experiences and discoveries. His diverse contributions significantly enrich the travel community, providing both practical advice and inspiring content.

Gary Leff

Garry Leff, a seasoned travel blogger, has been sharing his insights and expertise since 2002. His journey began with the blog "More Room Throughout Coach," a nod to finding extra value and space in travel and life.

Garry's focus has always been on maximizing the benefits of miles, points, and cash back for travellers. His blog, a labour of love, has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting the highs and lows of the travel industry. Initially, Garry's writings served as a personal catalogue of his learning experiences, but they quickly transformed into valuable resources for others looking to optimize their travel experiences.

Despite the blog's success, Garry emphasizes that it was never about profit. In the early days, ads were non-existent, and even when they appeared, the revenue was minimal. His primary reward has been the satisfaction of helping others achieve their travel dreams, whether it's a once-in-a-lifetime trip or an improved daily commute.

Garry's dedication to his readers is evident; he often expresses that their travel successes are thanks enough. However, for those who have found value in his work and wish to show appreciation, he humbly suggests supporting his efforts in any way they feel inclined.

Nomadic Matt

Nomadic Matt, a New York Times best-selling author and the visionary behind a popular travel website, stands as a beacon of inspiration for budget-conscious travellers. Since launching his blog in 2008, Matt has become a pivotal figure in the travel community, guiding millions with his practical, cost-effective travel strategies. His books, "How to Travel the World on $50 a Day" and "Ten Years a Nomad," encapsulate his expertise and experiences, offering invaluable insights for those seeking to explore the world without breaking the bank.

Matt's approach is deeply rooted in authenticity and firsthand experience. He and his team personally visit each hostel, restaurant, and attraction they recommend, ensuring their advice is based on real experiences. This commitment to authenticity sets his website apart, offering a treasure trove of tested travel tips, in-depth interviews with travel experts, and inspiring case studies from a diverse range of travellers.

At the heart of Nomadic Matt's philosophy is a desire to empower others to travel more, spend less, and discover the authentic essence of their destinations. His website is not just a resource; it's a community of supportive travellers, all united by the shared goal of making travel more accessible and enriching for everyone.

Samantha Brown

Samantha Brown, a renowned travel expert and television host, has journeyed far from her humble beginnings in Dallas, Texas, and her childhood in New Hampshire, where family trips in the station wagon were the norm. Her passion for the performing arts led her to Syracuse University, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts. Post-graduation, Samantha's pursuit of acting in New York City eventually paved the way for her true calling in travel hosting.

In 1999, Samantha's charisma and love for exploration landed her the role of hosting Travel Channel’s "Great Vacation Homes," kickstarting a series of successful shows, including "Passport to Europe" and "Samantha Brown's Asia." Her most notable achievement came with "Samantha Brown's Places to Love" on PBS, earning her an Emmy for Outstanding Host in 2019.

Beyond television, Samantha's passion for travel manifested in her stylish luggage line for HSN, reflecting her expertise in practical yet elegant travel essentials. Residing in Brooklyn with her husband and twins, Samantha continues to inspire with her unique blend of warmth, knowledge, and a genuine love for the adventures of travel.

CBoardingGroup Business Travel (@cboardinggroup)

CBoardingGroup Business Travel stands as a quintessential resource for the modern business traveller. Part of the esteemed BoardingArea.com network since 1Q 2019, this platform offers a rich blend of information, guides, and up-to-the-minute travel news, all tailored to the needs of those who travel for work.

While retaining editorial independence, CBoardingGroup shares the spotlight with around 50 other notable travel bloggers under the BoardingArea brand, benefiting from its robust backing while contributing to a diverse pool of travel expertise.

The essence of CBoardingGroup lies in its deep understanding of the nuances of business travel. The content, crafted by seasoned travellers and remote workers, resonates with many audiences, from frequent flyers to occasional business trip attendees. The blog's focus extends beyond travel logistics; it delves into the evolving landscape of remote work, staycationing trends, and practical tips for a balanced work-travel life.

With a keen eye on the latest travel news, product reviews, and deal alerts, CBoardingGroup Business Travel is more than just a blog—it's a companion for the modern professional navigating the dynamic world of business travel.

Greg Caplan

Greg Caplan, a visionary entrepreneur, embarked on his journey in the startup world as a Founder-in-Residence at Lightbank in January 2011. His entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mindset led him to co-found oBaz.com in August 2011. oBaz.com stands out in the e-commerce landscape, redefining the online shopping experience through a unique blend of personalization and social features.

Greg's academic background, a BBA from the prestigious Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, provided a solid foundation for his ventures. His work at oBaz.com showcases his commitment to transforming how people engage with e-commerce, making shopping a more tailored and interactive experience.

Greg Caplan is also the Founder of Remote Year, a company that facilitates remote working while travelling the world. This concept is increasingly relevant for businesses considering remote work options combined with travel.

Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis, the inspiring force behind Be My Travel Muse, embarked on her transformative journey in September 2012, leaving behind a corporate job in California for a solo adventure starting in Bangkok. Initially born out of necessity, her decision to travel alone became the cornerstone of her life's work.

Over eleven years, Kristin's solo travels have taken her on extraordinary adventures, from hitchhiking across China to freediving with humpback whales in the South Pacific. Her experiences extend to leading women's adventure tours worldwide and embracing motherhood in 2022.

Kristin's blog, celebrated by millions, has evolved into a vibrant community for solo female travellers. Her expertise and empowering insights have been featured in prestigious publications like Vogue and the Washington Post, making her a beacon for solo travellers seeking life-changing experiences. Kristin Addis is more than a travel blogger; she's an emblem of empowerment, adventure, and the transformative power of solo travel.

Kiersten Rich

Kiersten Rich, better known as Kiki, is one of the pioneers in the world of travel blogging, having left a promising career in corporate wealth management in 2011 for a transformative journey. Her summer of soul-searching, spanning Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Bali, and New Zealand, opened her eyes to the joys and empowerment of solo travel.

Over the past decade, Kiki has turned her passion into a platform, sharing her experiences and insights with women globally. Having explored over 70 countries and lived in Cape Town, Kiki's adventures are far from over, despite settling down in California. Her journey challenges conventional paths to success, inspiring others to find fulfilment and happiness in their unique adventures. Kiersten Rich's story is not just about travel; it's about redefining life on one's terms.

Oneika Raymond

Oneika Raymond is a dynamic force in the world of travel and lifestyle, known for her Emmy Award-winning work as a correspondent for NBC New York and as the host of Travel Channel’s "Big City, Little Budget" and "One Bag and You’re Out." Her passion for exploration has led her to over 120 countries, making her a seasoned travel expert featured on CTV Canada’s "Your Morning" and "The Social."

An accomplished writer, Oneika’s insights grace the pages of Condé Nast Traveler, Oprah Magazine, and more. Her blog, OneikaTheTraveller.com, acclaimed for its thoughtful exploration of travel’s intersection with race and politics, earned a Gold Medal in the SATW Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition.

As a co-author of "Wanderess" and a keynote speaker, Oneika is a powerful advocate for solo female travellers, recognized as Wanderful’s Creator of the Year and a recipient of the VOTY award at BlogHer. Her influence extends beyond writing to being a sought-after spokesperson and on-camera talent in the travel domain.

Alyssa Ramos

Alyssa Ramos, a self-made Cuban American solo travel blogger and social media influencer, redefined her life path in 2011, leaving behind a corporate career to embrace a world of adventure. Her journey, starting with a one-way ticket to Bangkok, has led her to over 85 countries, including exhilarating destinations like Antarctica and the Amazon Rainforest.

Alyssa's unique approach to travel, combining daring adventures with solo exploration, resonates with her followers on Instagram. Despite humble beginnings and challenges, she has carved a niche in the travel blogging world, inspiring others with her tenacity and passion. Alyssa's work ethic and dedication to her blog and social media have transformed her dream into a reality, making her a true embodiment of fearless pursuit and inspirational travel.

Jessie

Jessie, the spirited creator behind "Jessie on a Journey," epitomizes the essence of a life lived on one's own terms. Rejecting societal norms of a conventional 9-to-5 job, Jessie bravely ventured into the world of travel blogging, transforming her passion into a thriving business.

Her platform is more than just a travel blog; it's a source of inspiration and practical advice for those yearning to break free from the mundane. From solo travel adventures to insightful tips for aspiring digital nomads, Jessie's journey is a testament to the power of following one's inner voice.

Her story is one of courage and creativity, trading corporate suits for suitcases and finding her office in coffee shops and aeroplane tray tables. Jessie's journey encourages others to explore beyond the guidebook, embracing spontaneity and pursuing a fulfilling, travel-infused life.

Kate McCulley

Kate McCulley, an intrepid traveller and influential blogger, embarked on a life-altering journey at 26, leaving her job to explore Southeast Asia. This six-month adventure evolved into 13 years of globetrotting across 83 countries and seven continents, leading her to now reside in Prague. Kate's experiences range from the extraordinary, like surviving a shipwreck in Indonesia, to the exhilarating, such as swimming in Antarctica's icy waters.

A Boston native, she initially carved a career in online marketing before pursuing her dream of global exploration. Kate's passion lies in empowering women to travel solo, debunking myths, and providing practical safety tips.

Her blog demonstrates her belief that solo travel can be a safe, enriching, and liberating experience for women worldwide with proper research and preparation. Kate's journey is not just about travel; it's a mission to inspire independence and adventure in women everywhere.

Jones Family Travels

Jones Family Travels embodies the essence of living on one's terms. Embracing their passion for travel, Tim and his wife stepped away from conventional 9-5 jobs to create an online business. Their adventurous spirit didn't wane even as they started a family with their two children, Kelly and Hunter.

Choosing to homeschool their kids, they boldly decided to prioritize family time and exploration. They spend over 200 days a year travelling, capturing and sharing their family adventures.

As vloggers, bloggers, influencers, and more, they inspire others to chase their dreams. Their story is a testament to daring to live differently, encouraging others to "Keep on Dreaming" and pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional they may seem. Jones Family Travels is more than a travel chronicle; it's a narrative of a family turning their dreams into a vibrant, shared reality.

Kara and Nate

Kara and Nate, high school sweethearts from Nashville, Tennessee, transformed their dream of long-term travel into a vibrant reality. Over the past 4+ years, this adventurous duo has been traversing the globe, reaching an impressive milestone of visiting 100 countries by December 2019. Their journey began in January 2016 with a one-way ticket to Tokyo, intending to travel for a year before settling down.

However, their plans took an exciting turn as their YouTube channel flourished, turning their travel adventures into a sustainable career. Documenting their experiences through over 500 videos, they've grown a substantial following, winning a Shorty Award and inspiring others with their travel hacking tips, YouTube insights, and entrepreneurial spirit. Kara and Nate's journey is not just about travel; it's a story of turning a shared passion into a successful, unconventional lifestyle.