🌍 10 Inspiring Books to Read While Traveling ✈️

Because nothing pairs with a train ride like a good story

There’s something magical about reading while you travel. Whether you're killing time in an airport, lounging in a hostel, or watching the Irish countryside fly past a bus window, the right book can make the journey even richer.

We've rounded up 10 inspiring reads — fiction, non-fiction, and memoirs — that will stir your sense of adventure, spark reflection, or simply keep you turning pages until your next stop.

1. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

Genre: Fiction / Spiritual AdventureWhy it’s perfect: A dreamy, soul-searching journey that reminds you to follow your personal legend. Short, simple, and deeply moving — especially for those figuring out their path.

2. “Vagabonding” by Rolf Potts

Genre: Travel Philosophy / GuideWhy it’s perfect: Not just for backpackers.

This book is about slow, meaningful travel and shifting perspectives. Great for students on a gap year or anyone dreaming of ditching routine.

3. “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert

Genre: Memoir / Self-DiscoveryWhy it’s perfect: Whether you love it or hate it, this story of personal transformation across Italy, India, and Bali hits different when you’re also exploring new places (and maybe yourself).

4. “Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer

Genre: Biography / Adventure

Why it’s perfect: A gripping, true story of a young man who gave it all up for a life of freedom. Ideal for those questioning convention — or just craving the wild.

5. “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Genre: Fiction / Fable

Why it’s perfect: This classic may be small, but it’s full of big feelings. Great for reading on a plane or during quiet solo moments. Bonus: it hits even harder when you're far from home.

6. “On the Road” by Jack Kerouac

Genre: Classic / Road TripWhy it’s perfect: The OG travel novel. Chaotic, poetic, and full of youthful energy. If you’re road-tripping or rail-passing through Europe, this is your literary fuel.

7. “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed

Genre: Memoir / Personal GrowthWhy it’s perfect: One woman, one backpack, one thousand miles. It's an honest, sometimes raw story of healing through nature and solitude. Ideal for hikers, wanderers, and anyone in transition.

8. “The Art of Travel” by Alain de Botton

Genre: Non-fiction / Philosophy

Why it’s perfect: A deeper, more thoughtful look at why we travel. This one’s for the thinkers — students who want to turn their adventures into meaning.

9. “How to Travel the World on $50 a Day” by Matt Kepnes (Nomadic Matt)

Genre: Travel Tips / Budget Guide

Why it’s perfect: Practical and packed with real talk for student travelers. Learn how to stretch your euro, meet people, and make the most of your ISIC discounts while you’re at it.

10. “Call Me By Your Name” by André Aciman

Genre: Fiction / Romance

Why it’s perfect: A beautifully written summer story of connection, longing, and memory. Best read while in the sun, near the water, or on a lazy afternoon abroad.

Bonus Tip:

📚 Many of these titles are available as audiobooks or eBooks — perfect if you’re packing light!

Wherever You're Headed...

Traveling is more than just moving from place to place. It’s about stories — your own, and the ones you discover along the way. These books will keep you company, challenge your thinking, and inspire you to embrace the journey, not just the destination.

Got your ISIC card? Don’t forget, it gets you student discounts on books, cafés, museums, hostels, and more around the world. 📍✈️📖

Happy reading & safe travels!