List of Top Travel Journalists in the Industry

By Intelligent Relations Team

January 13, 2023

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As the pandemic put a pause on travel around the world, many travel lovers turned to books, tv shows, and travel blogs to cure their ever-growing wanderlust. Now that the world is opening up again, resorts, tourism hubs, and travel companies have a unique opportunity to utilize these outlets for some positive PR and visibility. 

Statistics show that 38% of adults use social media to help plan their trips, including 54% of millennials. As influencers and travel bloggers become more and more popular, you can access travel tips anytime and anywhere. 

It’s no secret that travel is big business. According to the U.S. Travel Association, Americans spent an average of $1.1 trillion in direct spending on national and international travel in the U.S. in 2019 – prior to the global pandemic. Most agree that it will take time to reach those spending levels again, but travel is still very much a robust industry.

We’ve made things easier by rounding up a list of popular travel writers, journalists, and bloggers. As you begin to plan your next holiday or generate some press about your travel business or solution, consult these experts.

Our Travel Journalist Roundup for 2024 

Matt Kepnes (@nomadicmatt) also known as “Nomadic Matt,” is a travel writer, blogger, and speaker. He writes about budget travel and has published several books on the topic, including “How to Travel the World on $50 a Day.” He also runs a popular travel blog and offers resources and tips for budget travelers.

Chris Christensen (@chris2x) is the host of the popular travel podcast “Amateur Traveler,” which features interviews with travel experts and destination guides. Chris is also an avid traveler and has visited over 100 countries.

The Blonde Abroad (@kierstenrich) is a travel blog run by Kiersten Rich, a solo female traveler and digital nomad. Kiersten writes about luxury and budget travel, as well as solo female travel and digital nomadism.

Brooke Saward (@worldofwlust) is the founder of the popular travel blog “World of Wanderlust,” which features destination guides, travel tips, and personal stories from her adventures around the world. Brooke is also an author and speaker, and has been featured in numerous media outlets.

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil (@theplanetd) are the husband and wife team behind the award-winning travel blog “The Planet D.” They write about adventure travel and have visited over 100 countries together. Dave and Debra are also professional photographers.

Michael Turtle (@michaelturtle) is a travel reporter who writes about sustainable and responsible travel. He is the creator of the “Time Travel Turtle” blog and has also written for numerous media outlets. 

Jessica Festa (@JessonaJourney) is the editor of the travel and lifestyle blog “Jessie on a Journey.” She writes about budget travel, solo female travel, and responsible tourism.

Megan Jerrard (@mappingmegan) is the co-founder of the travel blog “Mapping Megan,” which features destination guides, travel tips, and personal stories from her adventures around the world. 

Johnny Jet (@JohnnyJet) is a travel expert and blogger who writes about a wide range of travel topics, including destination guides, travel tips, and travel industry news. Johnny has been featured in numerous media outlets and is also the host of the “Johnny Jet” podcast. 

Gary Arndt (@EverywhereTrip) is a professional photographer and travel reporter who has visited over 200 countries. He runs the popular travel blog “Everything Everywhere,” which features destination guides, travel tips, and personal stories from his adventures around the world.

The Traveling Scientist — Dr. Katie Peek (@kathrynpeek) is a science journalist and the founder of The Traveling Scientist, a blog and Instagram account focused on science, travel, and the environment. Katie has a PhD in astrophysics and has worked as a science writer for outlets such as Scientific American and National Geographic.

The Professional Hobo — Nora Dunn (@hobonora) is the founder of The Professional Hobo, a blog and social media account focused on long-term, budget travel. Nora has been traveling full-time for over a decade and is known for her practical travel tips and advice for budget travelers.

Young Adventures — Liz Carlson (@YoungAdventures) is the founder of Young Adventures, a blog and social media account focused on solo female travel and adventure. Liz has been featured in numerous media outlets, including Forbes and The Huffington Post, and has a strong following on social media.

The Travel Hack (@thetravelhack) Monica Stott is the founder of The Travel Hack, a travel and lifestyle blog and social media account focused on her travels and adventures around the world. She has a focus on traveling with little ones. 

Rick Steves (@RickSteves) is a well-known travel writer and host of the popular TV show “Rick Steves’ Europe.” His focus is on budget travel and cultural immersion, and he has written numerous guidebooks and produced numerous shows on European destinations.

Pico Iyer (@PicoIyer) is a British-born essayist and novelist known for his writings on cross-cultural experiences and travel. He has written numerous books on his travels, including “The Art of Stillness” and “The Open Road.”

Paul Theroux (@PaulTheroux_) is a prolific travel writer and novelist, best known for his book “The Great Railway Bazaar.” He has traveled extensively throughout the world and written numerous books on his experiences.

Samantha Brown (@SamanthaBrown) is an American television host and travel writer, best known for hosting the Travel Channel shows “Girl Meets Hawaii” and “Samantha Brown’s Asia.

Andrew Zimmern (@andrewzimmern) is a chef, television host, and food writer known for his show “Bizarre Foods” on the Travel Channel. He travels the world in search of unique and unusual food experiences.

Rolf Potts (@rolfpotts) is an American travel writer and author of the book “Vagabonding,” which advocates for long-term, independent travel. He has traveled extensively and has written for numerous publications, including National Geographic Traveler and Outside magazine.

Jan Morris (@Soulgirl999) is a British travel writer and historian known for her lyrical and evocative writing style. She has written numerous books on her travels, including “Venice” and “Trieste and the Meaning of Nowhere.”

Mary Morris (@Maryelmorris) is an American author and travel writer known for her immersive and descriptive writing style. Her books include “The River Queen” and “The Looking Glass.” 

Elizabeth Gilbert (@GilbertLiz) is an American author and travel writer best known for her memoir “Eat, Pray, Love,” which chronicles her journey of self-discovery through Italy, India, and Indonesia.

Bill Bryson (@billbrysonn) is an American author and travel writer known for his humorous and engaging writing style. His books include “A Walk in the Woods” and “Notes from a Small Island.” 

Pauline Frommer (@Frommers) is an American travel writer and guidebook author known for her practical and budget-conscious approach to travel. She is the editorial director of the Frommer’s travel guide series.

Dave Eggers (@mcsweenys) is an American author and travel writer known for his adventures in remote and exotic locations. His books include “A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius” and “Zeitoun.” 

Bruce Chatwin (@chatwinnews) was a British author and travel writer known for his wanderlust and love of adventure. His books include “In Patagonia” and “The Songlines.”

Tony Horwitz (@TonyHorwitz) is an American journalist and author known for his immersive and investigative reporting style. His books include “Confederates in the Attic” and “Midnight Rising.” 

The Traveling Editor (@TravelEditor) Sarah Schlichter is a journalist and editor who covers all things travel, from budget tips to luxury experiences. She has written for outlets such as Condé Nast Traveler and USA Today, and has won awards for her work. 

The Daily Traveler (@cestchristine) Christine Amorose is a travel blogger and influencer who shares her adventures around the world on her blog and social media channels. She has a particular focus on sustainable and responsible travel, and often collaborates with eco-friendly brands.

The Travel Writer’s Life (@TravelWriting) – Trisha Miller is a travel writer and journalist who shares her experiences and insights on her blog and social media. She has written for outlets such as Forbes, National Geographic, and Lonely Planet. 

The Globe Trotter (@RachelRoams) Rachel Rudwall is a travel influencer and content creator. She has a particular focus on off-the-beaten-path destinations and often collaborates with travel brands.

The Solo Traveler Janice Waugh is a travel blogger and influencer who shares her solo adventures. She has a particular focus on solo travel for women and often writes about budget-friendly options.

The Budget-Minded Traveler (@travelingjackie) Jackie Laulainen is a travel blogger and influencer who shares her budget-friendly adventures. She has a particular focus on affordable travel options and often writes about how to save money on travel. 

The Jet Setter (@NicoleTrilivas) Nicole Trilivas is a travel influencer and content creator who shares her luxury adventures. She has a particular focus on high-end travel destinations and often collaborates with luxury brands. 

The Adventurous Traveler (@em_luxton) Emily Luxton is a travel blogger and influencer who shares her adventures on her blog and social media. She has a particular focus on adventure travel and often writes about off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Final Thoughts

Our list of travel writers covers all areas of the travel niche —from budget to luxury, solo to family, and from social media to TV and books. 

Traveling is a very personal experience, and everyone has different preferences and itineraries. These travel journalists will help you find your perfect adventure. Now that you have this list to get you started, the world is your oyster! 

For access to more journalists covering your specific industry, book a free consultation with us. You’ll get access to our AI-powered media database featuring 200K+ journalists and relevant publications.