Instagram stories have become a popular way to share our travel adventures with friends, family, and followers.
One key element that can elevate your stories and capture the essence of your journey is the perfect travel song.
To help you curate a captivating soundtrack for your Instagram travel stories, we have handpicked 30 exceptional songs that will add a touch of magic to your visual narratives.
Let’s explore these songs and discover the ones that resonate with your wanderlust.
Upbeat and Energetic Travel Songs
“Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves
Review: This timeless classic is a feel-good anthem that instantly lifts your spirits. With its catchy melody and upbeat tempo, “Walking on Sunshine” is the perfect song to soundtrack your joyful travel moments. Its infectious energy will make your Instagram followers want to dance along with you.
Pros: Upbeat and cheerful, catchy melody.
Cons: Overplayed and might be considered cliché.
“I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
Review: Bursting with positive vibes, “I Gotta Feeling” is an anthem for celebration and making memories. The song’s energetic beats and optimistic lyrics make it an ideal choice for showcasing the exciting highlights of your travel experiences on Instagram.
Pros: High-energy, catchy chorus.
Cons: May feel dated for some listeners.
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams
Review: “Happy” is a global phenomenon that exudes pure joy and happiness. With its infectious rhythm and uplifting lyrics, this song has the power to spread smiles and create a sense of positivity in your Instagram stories. It’s a guaranteed mood booster for both you and your followers.
Pros: Infectious melody, universally uplifting.
Cons: Ubiquitous and may feel overused.
Wanderlust and Adventure-inspired Travel Songs
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
Review: “Wish You Were Here” is a nostalgic and introspective song that evokes a sense of longing and reflection. Its melodic guitar solos and heartfelt lyrics beautifully capture the essence of travel and the desire to explore new horizons. It’s an ideal choice for showcasing your contemplative moments on Instagram.
Pros: Evocative lyrics, memorable guitar solos.
Cons: Slow tempo, may not suit every mood.
“Roam” by The B-52’s
Review: “Roam” is a catchy and upbeat song that inspires a sense of wanderlust and adventure. Its energetic rhythm and spirited vocals create an atmosphere of excitement and freedom, making it a great addition to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Energetic, catchy chorus.
Cons: Less well-known compared to other songs on the list.
“I Lived” by OneRepublic
Review: “I Lived” is an uplifting anthem that encourages us to seize every moment and live life to the fullest. Its powerful lyrics and anthemic chorus make it a perfect fit for showcasing your adventurous and daring travel experiences on Instagram.
Pros: Inspirational lyrics, memorable chorus.
Cons: More reflective than high-energy.
Nostalgic and Reflective Travel Songs
“Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac
Review: “Landslide” is a heartfelt and introspective song that resonates with those seeking personal growth and introspection. Its poignant lyrics and soothing melodies create a contemplative atmosphere, making it a great choice for reflecting on your travel experiences in your Instagram stories.
Pros: Emotional, beautiful lyrics.
Cons: Slower tempo, may not suit every mood.
“Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
Review: “Fast Car” is a powerful and thought-provoking song that tells a compelling story of dreams, escape, and the longing for a better life. Its soulful vocals and relatable lyrics make it a perfect choice for conveying the transformative power of travel in your Instagram stories.
Pros: Poignant storytelling, soulful vocals.
Cons: Emotionally heavy, not a high-energy song.
“Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver
Review: “Leaving on a Jet Plane” is an iconic song that captures the bittersweet emotions of departing on a journey. Its gentle acoustic melody and heartfelt lyrics create a sense of anticipation and longing, making it an ideal choice for documenting your departure and new adventures on Instagram.
Pros: Classic and nostalgic, relatable lyrics.
Cons: Slow tempo, may not suit every mood.
Inspirational and Motivational Travel Songs
“Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey
Review: “Don’t Stop Believin'” is an iconic anthem that inspires perseverance and the belief that anything is possible. Its infectious melody and uplifting lyrics make it an excellent choice for capturing the sense of adventure and determination in your Instagram travel stories.
Pros: Inspirational lyrics, memorable chorus.
Cons: Overplayed and might be considered cliché.
“The Climb” by Miley Cyrus
Review: “The Climb” is a powerful and motivational song that encourages us to embrace the journey and overcome obstacles. With its inspiring lyrics and Miley Cyrus’ emotive vocals, this song serves as a reminder to stay strong and pursue our dreams, making it a fitting addition to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Uplifting message, emotive vocals.
Cons: More reflective and may not suit every mood.
“On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons
Review: “On Top of the World” is an upbeat and empowering song that celebrates the feeling of accomplishment and joy. Its energetic rhythm and positive lyrics create a sense of triumph and excitement, making it a perfect soundtrack for sharing your triumphant travel moments on Instagram.
Pros: Energetic, celebratory tone.
Cons: May feel overused for some listeners.
Local and Cultural Travel Songs
“Volare” by Dean Martin
Review: “Volare” is an enchanting and timeless Italian classic that captures the spirit of Italy and its romantic allure. With Dean Martin’s smooth vocals and the song’s lively melody, it adds a touch of Italian charm to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Classic Italian vibe, captivating vocals.
Cons: May be less familiar to some listeners.
“Bailando” by Enrique Iglesias ft. Descemer Bueno & Gente De Zona
Review: “Bailando” is an infectious and upbeat Latin pop song that invites listeners to dance and celebrate life. Its catchy chorus and energetic rhythms make it a perfect choice for showcasing vibrant and lively travel moments in your Instagram stories.
Pros: Upbeat, Latin flair.
Cons: Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
“Mas Que Nada” by Sergio Mendes ft. Black Eyed Peas
Review: “Mas Que Nada” is a spirited and lively song that blends Brazilian rhythms with contemporary beats. With its energetic vocals and infectious groove, it adds a vibrant and multicultural vibe to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Lively, multicultural fusion.
Cons: May be less familiar to some listeners.
Road Trip and Freedom-themed Travel Songs
“Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane
Review: “Life is a Highway” is an exhilarating and anthemic song that captures the spirit of the open road and the excitement of a road trip. Its catchy melody and empowering lyrics make it an ideal choice for showcasing your adventurous journeys on Instagram.
Pros: Energetic, road trip theme.
Cons: May feel overplayed for some listeners.
“Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
Review: “Born to Run” is an iconic rock anthem that celebrates freedom, adventure, and the thrill of breaking free from the everyday routine. With its energetic instrumentation and passionate vocals, it adds a sense of exhilaration to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Energetic, classic rock sound.
Cons: Long duration, may not suit every mood.
“Take It Easy” by Eagles
Review: “Take It Easy” is a laid-back and carefree song that embodies the spirit of relaxation and enjoying the journey. Its mellow sound and relatable lyrics make it an excellent choice for capturing the easygoing moments of your travel experiences on Instagram.
Pros: Laid-back vibe, relatable lyrics.
Cons: Less energetic compared to other songs.
Beach and Summer Vibes Travel Songs
“Kokomo” by The Beach Boys
Review: “Kokomo” is a tropical and feel-good song that brings the sun-soaked beach vibes to your travel-themed Instagram stories. With its catchy chorus and laid-back melodies, it adds a touch of paradise to your visual narratives.
Pros: Tropical vibes, catchy chorus.
Cons: May feel dated for some listeners.
“Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley
Review: “Three Little Birds” is a reggae classic that radiates positivity and tranquility. Its soothing melodies and uplifting lyrics create a carefree and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for showcasing your beach and island adventures on Instagram.
Pros: Soothing and uplifting, iconic reggae sound.
Cons: May be overplayed for some listeners.
“Summertime” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
Review: “Summertime” is a laid-back and nostalgic hip-hop song that captures the essence of summertime bliss. Its smooth beats and playful lyrics create a carefree and fun atmosphere, making it an ideal addition to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Laid-back, nostalgic vibe.
Cons: Seasonal theme, may not suit every mood.
Feel-Good and Inspiring Travel Songs
“Beautiful Day” by U2
Review: “Beautiful Day” is an uplifting and anthemic song that celebrates the beauty of life and the joy of new beginnings. With its soaring melodies and positive lyrics, it adds a sense of optimism and inspiration to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Uplifting, anthemic sound.
Cons: May feel overplayed for some listeners.
“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys
Review: “Good Vibrations” is a timeless and feel-good song that radiates positivity and happiness. Its intricate harmonies, layered instrumentation, and catchy melodies create a vibrant and joyful atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for sharing your travel moments on Instagram.
Pros: Joyful, intricate sound.
Cons: May be less familiar to some listeners.
“Lovely Day” by Bill Withers
Review: “Lovely Day” is a soulful and uplifting song that exudes warmth and optimism. Its smooth vocals and sunny melodies create a relaxing and feel-good vibe, making it an ideal addition to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Soulful, relaxing sound.
Cons: Slower tempo, may not suit every mood.
Iconic and Classic Travel Songs
“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
Review: “I Will Survive” is a timeless anthem of strength, resilience, and empowerment. Its powerful vocals and empowering lyrics make it a perfect choice for showcasing your determination and overcoming challenges in your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Empowering, iconic sound.
Cons: Less directly travel-related compared to other songs.
“Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Review: “Sweet Home Alabama” is a classic rock song that celebrates the spirit of the American South. With its iconic guitar riff and catchy chorus, it adds a touch of nostalgia and Southern charm to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Classic rock sound, iconic guitar riff.
Cons: Less directly related to travel or international destinations.
“California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & The Papas
Review: “California Dreamin‘” is a dreamy and nostalgic song that evokes the allure of the Californian lifestyle. Its harmonies and wistful lyrics create a sense of longing and adventure, making it a great choice for capturing your California travels on Instagram.
Pros: Nostalgic, harmonious sound.
Cons: Geographically specific, may not suit every travel destination.
Local Music and Traditional Travel Songs
“O Sole Mio” by Luciano Pavarotti
Review: “O Sole Mio” is a beloved Italian song that showcases the beauty of traditional Italian music. With Luciano Pavarotti’s powerful vocals and the song’s expressive melodies, it adds a touch of Italian romance and cultural richness to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Classic Italian sound, powerful vocals.
Cons: Less familiar to some listeners.
“La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens
Review: “La Bamba” is an energetic and infectious Latin American song that invites listeners to dance and celebrate. Its lively rhythms and catchy chorus create a festive and joyful atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for sharing your cultural adventures on Instagram.
Pros: Energetic, festive sound.
Cons: Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
“Cielito Lindo” by Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán
Review: “Cielito Lindo” is a traditional Mexican folk song that captures the spirit and charm of Mexican culture. With its vibrant mariachi instrumentation and lively vocals, it adds a sense of fiesta and cultural authenticity to your travel-themed Instagram stories.
Pros: Vibrant, traditional Mexican sound.
Cons: Less familiar to some listeners.
What are the Best Songs for Instagram Stories?
When it comes to choosing the best songs for Instagram stories, it depends on the mood and theme you want to convey. Here are a few popular options:
- Upbeat and Energetic: Songs like “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves or “Happy” by Pharrell Williams bring a positive and joyful vibe to your stories.
- Nostalgic and Reflective: Tracks like “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac or “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman create a contemplative and introspective atmosphere.
- Inspirational and Motivational: Consider songs like “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey or “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus for uplifting and empowering moments in your stories.
- Local and Cultural: If you’re showcasing a specific location, incorporating local music like “Volare” by Dean Martin or “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens adds authenticity and cultural richness.
Remember to choose songs that resonate with your content and evoke the desired emotions or atmosphere. Consider the story you want to tell and select songs that complement the visuals and enhance the overall experience.
What is the Perfect Song for a Travel Video?
The perfect song for a travel video is subjective and depends on the specific theme, mood, and destination of your video. However, there are a few factors to consider when selecting the perfect song:
- Genre and Style: Choose a song that aligns with the genre and style of your travel video. For example, if your video focuses on adventure sports, an energetic and adrenaline-pumping track may be suitable. For a serene nature video, an ambient or instrumental piece could work well.
- Lyrics and Theme: Pay attention to the lyrics and theme of the song. Look for lyrics that complement or enhance the visuals and story of your travel video. Consider songs with positive and inspiring messages that resonate with the experiences and emotions captured in your footage.
- Tempo and Rhythm: The tempo and rhythm of the song should match the pacing and flow of your video. A fast-paced track can add excitement and energy, while a slower tempo can evoke a sense of calm and reflection.
- Licensing and Copyright: Ensure that you have the necessary rights to use the chosen song in your video. Opt for royalty-free or licensed music to avoid any legal issues.
Ultimately, the perfect song for a travel video is one that enhances the visuals, complements the storytelling, and evokes the desired emotions and atmosphere.
How Do You Find the Perfect Song for Instagram Stories?
Finding the perfect song for your Instagram stories involves a combination of exploration, personal taste, and consideration of the story you want to tell. Here are some tips to help you find the right song:
- Define the Mood and Theme: Determine the mood and theme of your Instagram story. Do you want it to be upbeat and lively, nostalgic and reflective, or inspirational and motivational? This will guide your search for the perfect song.
- Explore Music Streaming Platforms: Use music streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music to discover new songs and playlists. Look for curated playlists specifically tailored to travel or mood-based themes that align with your story.
- Use Song Discovery Apps: Apps like Shazam or SoundHound can identify songs playing around you. If you come across a song that resonates with your story while you’re out and about, use these apps to identify and save the song for later use.
- Follow Influencers and Content Creators: Follow Instagram influencers or content creators who share similar travel experiences and storytelling styles. Pay attention to the songs they use in their stories for inspiration and ideas.
- Create Your Own Playlist: Curate a personal playlist of songs that evoke the desired emotions and complement your travel stories. This way, you’ll have a go-to collection of tracks that resonate with your content.
Remember to always respect copyright laws and obtain the necessary licenses or use royalty-free music when adding songs to your Instagram stories.
Which Song is Best for Scenery?
The choice of the best song for scenery largely depends on the type of scenery and the atmosphere you want to create. Here are a few options:
- Ambient and Instrumental: Instrumental tracks like “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy or “Weightless” by Marconi Union create a calm and soothing backdrop for serene and picturesque scenery.
- Epic and Cinematic: If you want to highlight the grandeur and breathtaking nature of the scenery, consider epic orchestral tracks like “Nimrod” from Edward Elgar’s “Enigma Variations” or Hans Zimmer’s “Time” from the “Inception” soundtrack.
- Nature-inspired: Songs with nature-inspired themes, such as “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong or “Fields of Gold” by Sting, can beautifully complement scenic landscapes and capture their beauty.
- Local Music: For scenery that showcases a specific culture or region, incorporating local music that represents the destination can add authenticity and enhance the connection between the visuals and the soundtrack.
Ultimately, the best song for scenery is one that enhances the viewer’s experience, complements the visuals, and creates an emotional connection to the stunning landscapes captured in your content.
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Conclusion
Choosing the right travel songs for your Instagram stories can greatly enhance the impact and engagement of your travel content. We’ve explored a diverse selection of 30 songs, each offering its unique flavor and mood to suit different travel moments and destinations.
From upbeat and energetic tunes to reflective and nostalgic melodies, from inspiring anthems to culturally rich and local songs, this curated list provides a range of options to soundtrack your travel adventures on Instagram.
Remember to consider the mood, theme, and personal connection of the songs to your travel experiences. Select the ones that resonate with you and align with the story you want to tell.
Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, exploring a new city, or basking in the sun on a beach, these songs will bring your Instagram travel stories to life.
So, grab your headphones, compile your personalized travel playlist, and let the music transport you and your followers to the magical world of your travel adventures.
Safe travels and happy storytelling!