Every year the travel podcast world explodes with new voices, but which ones are actually worth your time? In this episode, I'm sharing my handpicked list of the 15 best travel podcasts to follow in 2026—shows that consistently deliver authentic stories, practical advice, and that feeling of being transported somewhere new.

Whether you're into budget backpacking, cultural deep dives, responsible tourism, or just want an audio escape for your commute, I've got you covered. From podcasts recorded entirely on the road to shows diving into sustainable travel practices, cinematic audio storytelling to quick 10-minute travel tips—this list spans every travel style and interest.

I'll break down what makes each podcast stand out, who it's perfect for, and where to start if you're new to the show. Expect Canadian travel vibes, Japanese cultural insights, wild historical stories, women-led perspectives, European expertise from a legend, and even some Aussie banter about wine and coastal escapes.

A few highlights from the list include:

• The Armchair Explorer's immersive storytelling with incredible sound design
• Curious Tourism's deep dives into responsible and sustainable travel
• Travel with Rick Steves for that classic European cultural wisdom
• Tripology Travel Podcast for real-time adventures from the road
• And a few surprises that might just become your new favorites

Important note: These are all active podcasts that have released episodes in the last two months—no dormant shows here, just fresh content ready for your 2026 travels.

Want the full written list with links to every show? Head to winginittravelpodcast.com for the companion blog post.

Let's dive in and find your next podcast obsession.

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Travel Podcasts for 2026

02:27 Exploring the Globetrotters Podcast

03:56 Diving into Japan

05:23 Meaningful Travel

06:47 Casual Conversations on Travel

08:14 Insights from Marilyn Ball

09:39 Real-Life Travel Tips

11:01 Women Who Travel

12:28 Deep Insights with Rick Steves

14:55 Wild Stories and History

16:53 Responsible Travel

18:49 Immersive Storytelling

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Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast - Website

Please leave a review and a 5-star rating wherever you get your podcasts!

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Winging It Travel Podcast...

Ep 191 w/ Mark Phipps (Lost In Paradise Travel) – Off-Grid Mongolia & Southwest Africa: Reindeer Tribes, Wild Roads & Namibia Safaris

In this week's episode, I'm rejoined by Mark Phipps—author, avid traveller and owner of Lost in Paradise Travel—who returns with stories from two incredible journeys: a solo winter adventure to Mongolia and an epic three-week road trip through Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. This conversation is packed with logistics, unforgettable moments and plenty of wanderlust-inducing content that should seriously inspire your next big trip.

We start with Mongolia, where Mark travelled completely solo during peak winter, experiencing minus eight degree temperatures and some of the most remote, off-grid travel you can imagine. He walks us through the entire journey—from a twelve-hour overnight bus from Ulaanbaatar to the northern town of Moron, then an eight-hour bone-rattling ride in a Soviet-era four-by-four across frozen rivers and dirt tracks with no signposts, before finally reaching the Dukha reindeer herders on the back of a reindeer itself. Mark spent two nights living with this semi-nomadic tribe just sixty-five kilometres from the Russian border, sleeping in traditional Gers, observing their daily life and experiencing one of the last truly authentic travel adventures left in the world. He shares what it's like to communicate with zero shared language, the food they eat, the spiritual connection to their reindeer, and why this trip requires permits, patience and a serious sense of adventure.

From there, Mark takes us through central Mongolia—visiting Karakorum, the ancient capital under Genghis Khan, hiking in Khustai National Park to see wild horses roaming the steppes, and exploring the Mini Gobi with its massive sand dunes and shaggy Bactrian camels. He breaks down the logistics too: how to book buses when systems are old-school, why you need to work with local guesthouses, what it costs to hire a guide, and why Mongolia is one of those rare places where independent travel still feels properly wild.

Then we shift continents entirely. Mark recounts an unforgettable three-week road trip with five friends across Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe—all done independently with rented four-by-fours and rooftop tents. He describes climbing the massive sand dunes of Sossusvlei, staying in open-air treehouses perched over rivers with hippos audible from bed, and driving deep into the Okavango Delta to witness Botswana's incredible elephant population up close. But the real highlight? Camping on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans—a vast, otherworldly expanse where they drove wherever they wanted, watched the sun go down, cracked open beers around a fire and experienced the clearest view of the Milky Way Mark has ever seen. It's one of those moments he describes as truly once-in-a-lifetime.

Mark also shares practical advice throughout: the best time of year to visit for wildlife (September to October), what to expect from border crossings, why you should let your tyre pressure down on the salt flats, and the mantra their safari guide lived by—"What nature provides, you will receive." It's a reminder that patience and flexibility are just as important as planning when it comes to African travel.

Finally, we dive into Lost in Paradise Travel, Mark's new venture. After his friend had her passport stolen in Budapest on New Year's Day—completely disrupting their trip—Mark created a GPS-enabled passport wallet that connects to your iPhone's Find My app. It's trackable, has an audible alarm, protects your passport cover and holds all your travel documents in one place. He explains why passport loss is such a recurring problem in the travel industry, how much disruption it causes, and why this simple solution could save your next trip. Pre-orders are live now at lostinparadisetravel.com, with the first shipment arriving in time for Christmas.

This episode

Exploring Queensland, Australia: Brisbane Highlights, Hiking In The Glass House Mountains & Noosa Paradise

In this episode, I take you through my eight-day adventure across Queensland after flying in from Vancouver—so expect heat, humidity, stories, and plenty of tips. I start off in Brisbane, where I break down how I navigated the city, the unbelievable 50-cent public transport system, the places I stayed, and all the cafés, restaurants and viewpoints that made the trip so memorable.

I share my favourite Brisbane moments, from wandering along South Bank and relaxing at the city beach to heading up the Skydeck for those incredible 360° views. I also talk about my day trip to the Glass House Mountains—how to get there cheaply, what the Mount Ngungun hike was like, and why I nearly abseiled off a 40-metre cliff (but absolutely bottled it at the last second!).

Then I head up the Sunshine Coast to revisit Noosa more than a decade after I first saw it—this time with money in my pocket. I chat through the coastal walk to Hell’s Gates, spotting dolphins, hanging out on those stunning beaches, exploring Noosaville’s cafés, and soaking up that paradise vibe that Noosa does so well.

And of course, I couldn’t be in Brisbane without going to the Ashes. I dive into the experience of watching England get absolutely battered at the Gabba, what it’s like attending a day–night Test, and the special moment of seeing Joe Root finally score a hundred in Australia.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Brisbane, thinking about exploring Noosa, or just love hearing travel stories from the road, this episode is packed with tips, experiences and a few classic mishaps along the way.

What I cover:

• Where I stayed in Brisbane & why it was great value
• My favourite cafés, restaurants and rooftop spots
• What to do around South Bank & the CBD
• How I reached the Glasshouse Mountains for only 50 cents
• Hiking Mount Ngungun & my failed abseiling attempt
• My full breakdown of Noosa: beaches, walks, cafés & transport
• What it’s like attending an Ashes match at the Gabba
• Daily budgeting, weather tips & what to expect in summer

Want to watch my Ashes Series on YouTube? Then head to my channel here to watch Day 1 (then watch the rest through to Day 4) - https://youtu.be/wfi1npmY0Vg?si=7mAW9GpKHmiaC4ck

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.

00:00 – Intro

02:00 – Flying to Brisbane

04:00 – Accommodation in Brisbane

06:00 – Public Transport Hack

08:00 – Brisbane CBD & Skydeck

10:00 – South Bank

13:00 – Food & Coffee Spots

15:00 – Glasshouse Mountains

18:00 – Abseil Attempt

20:30 – Noosa Overview

23:30 – Hell’s Gates Walk

25:30 – Noosaville

28:00 – Getting Around

30:00 – The Ashes at the Gabba

34:00 – Budget & Costs

37:00 – Final...

Ep 190 w/ Dave Seminara - Inside South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini: Dave’s Ultimate African Adventure Guide

In this week’s episode, I sit down once again with writer, journalist, YouTuber and seasoned traveller Dave Seminara, who has just returned from an epic journey across South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho. This conversation dives deep into one of the most fascinating regions on the planet, and Dave takes us right into the heart of it—through national parks, vibrant townships, mountain kingdoms and some unforgettable encounters along the way.

We start in Cape Town, where Dave shares his experience navigating one of the world’s most spectacular cities, from its dramatic geography and unpredictable weather to the realities of inequality and the history woven into its suburbs. He takes us for a raw and honest look at the Cape Flats, where he met community leaders working to interrupt gang violence and support local youth. It’s eye-opening, powerful and adds an important layer to any understanding of South Africa.

From there, Dave describes the magic of going on safari for the first time, including what it’s like to stay on a restored luxury train in Kruger National Park, the thrill of spotting wildlife up close, and why safari is both the most rewarding and unpredictable style of travel. He shares practical tips on budget, expectations and what to do when your game drive luck runs cold. We also talk about the difference between national parks and private game reserves, the food (which sounds absolutely unbelievable), and the guides who bring the whole experience to life.

Dave then takes us into the Drakensberg Mountains for hikes, ancient Bushmen rock art and one of the most unique lodge stays he’s ever experienced. And of course, we cross borders into Eswatini and Lesotho, exploring the logistics, the culture and why both mini-kingdoms are absolutely worth adding to any Southern Africa itinerary.

This episode is packed with insights for anyone dreaming of Africa, planning a first visit or simply curious about what travel looks like beyond the iconic highlights. Dave brings his humour, honesty and deep curiosity, and by the end you’ll understand why this trip made him rethink his entire travel focus.

If you enjoy the episode, please rate and review the podcast on your favourite app and subscribe on YouTube—every bit of support helps the show grow. You can also fuel the podcast at buymeacoffee.com/wingingit to support the production of these weekly stories. And of course, share the episode with a friend who’s dreaming of an African adventure.

Want to see more? Check out Dave's website and YouTube vlogs below.

Dave Seminara

Website - https://daveseminara.com/

YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@MadTraveler

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.

Timestamps

00:00 — Intro, podcast opener & welcome

04:15 — Dave checks in from St. Petersburg and opens the conversation

13:03 — The long-haul...

REVISITED in 2025 - Episode 5 - To Travel Solo Or Not?

In this episode, I go back to one of the earliest recordings I ever released on the Winging It Travel Podcast. My original episode, To Travel Solo or Not, captured a moment when I was still finding my voice, building the show from my bedroom, and trying to make sense of my own travel experiences. Now, years later, I’m revisiting those stories with fresh eyes.

I take you through some of the pivotal solo travel moments that shaped who I am as a traveller today — from navigating Bolivia on my own after a last-minute change of plans, to driving around Antigua as the only tourist in sight, to the chaotic hostel scenes in Puerto Rico where life happened right in front of me. I also look back on the randomness of meeting a QPR legend in St. Kitts, getting stranded in Toronto with no way out, and being rescued by a friend I’d met years earlier on the road.

These stories reminded me why solo travel can be so powerful. It gives you freedom, vulnerability, unexpected friendships, and moments of real growth. But I also talk honestly about the challenges — the loneliness, the missteps, the uncertainty — and how I see those experiences differently now in 2025.

I also reflect on how travelling with friends and partners has shaped me, and how those dynamics contrast with going it alone. Revisiting this episode felt like opening an old journal and realising just how much has changed… and how much hasn’t.

If you’re thinking about travelling solo this year, or if you’re curious about how our perspectives evolve as we keep exploring, I think you’ll get something out of this one.

If you enjoy the episode, come say hello on Instagram at @wingingittravelpodcast, and check out more at wingingittravelpodcast.com. I’d love to hear your own solo travel stories.

To finish, I am not sure what to think of my early episodes; they are a tad cringe from me in terms of the sound and production, but a reminder of the progression I have made in five years.

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Solo Travel

02:22 The Pros and Cons of Solo Travel

10:23 Cultural Awareness and Adaptability

19:29 Memorable Encounters and Lessons Learned

25:49 Unexpected Encounters in Puerto Rico

33:13 The Importance of Travel Connections

36:06 Solo Travel vs. Group Travel

39:30 Navigating Travel with Friends and Partners

43:55 Embracing Solo Adventures

48:02 Reflections on Travel and Personal Growth

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Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/

Winging It Travel Podcast -

In this week’s episode, I sit down with my longtime podcasting friend and returning guest, Marie Walker, to pull back the curtain on what digital nomad life actually looks like. This is not a highlight reel. This is the real, messy, energising and exhausting truth of building a remote business while bouncing between continents. Marie opens up about leaving the USA with a plan, the crash-and-burn moments that forced her to return home, and the unexpected personal growth that came from rebuilding twice.

We talk about the difference between backpacking and being a digital nomad, the pressure to stay productive while constantly uprooting your life, and the emotional toll of trying to create community in a new country every few months. Marie shares the honest lessons she’s learned from Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia and Korea, why she needed to end her 10-month trip early, and how burnout changed the way she approaches business, travel and lifestyle freedom.

If you’re dreaming of working remotely around the world or already living the nomad lifestyle, this conversation gives you the reality check most digital nomad influencers skip. It’s raw, funny, vulnerable and full of valuable perspective from someone who has lived the ups and downs.

Stick around to hear why Marie is now focused on rebuilding her foundations, where she’s heading next, and how she plans to approach digital nomad life differently moving forward. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering taking their work on the road.

Marie Walker

Your Girl Media - https://yourgirlmedia.com/

Culture Cult Travel Show

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/culture-cult-travel-show/id1603662928

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6Gfk2meDfzfmJIxybvoE6c

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.

00:00 Intro

01:18 Marie joins the show

05:00 Digital nomad beginnings

10:12 Why she left the USA

15:44 Backpacking vs digital nomad life

22:00 Planning a long-term work-travel trip

26:14 The realities of burnout

30:42 Community, co-livings and connection

36:30 The loneliness factor

42:00 Digital nomads and overtourism

47:50 Dating while nomadic

55:00 What Marie would do differently

59:40 Lessons learned along the way

1:04:00 Closing thoughts

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Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network -

IMMERSIVE - Hornby Island, British Columbia - A White Sand + Warm Clear Water Paradise

🌴 Episode Summary

In this immersive travel episode, join me, James Hammond, as I take you on a journey to Hornby Island, one of British Columbia’s most enchanting destinations — often called the “Hawaii of BC.”

Getting here isn’t easy — it takes three ferries, early mornings, and plenty of patience — but what waits at the end is nothing short of paradise. From tranquil ferry crossings and still turquoise waters to soft white sands at Tribune Bay, hidden calm at Whaling Station Bay, and live music and cider at Fossil Beach Farm, this episode captures the spirit of island life in sound and story.

You’ll hear the sea breeze, the crunch of sand, and the quiet hum of campfires as I explore Hornby’s beauty, culture, and community. It’s not just a visit — it’s a complete sensory escape into one of Canada’s most breathtaking coastal secrets.

Please sit back, pop on your headphones, and imagine you’re right here with me on Hornby Island. Picture the scenes as you listen — the waves, the wind, and the rhythm of island life. Throughout this episode, you’ll hear soundscapes, live reactions, music, and moments that will whisk you away on a perfect island escape. Enjoy.

• 🚢 The three-ferry journey from Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver, to Hornby Island
• ☕ A caffeine stop at Courtyard Coffee anda breakfast burrito at Vorizo Café
• 🏖️ Discovering the paradise of Tribune Bay and its crystal-clear waters
• 🏕️ Camping at Tribune Bay Campground surrounded by island vibes
• 🏞️ Hiking to Mount Geoffrey’s panoramic viewpoints
• 🍎 Enjoying cider, live music, and sunset views at Fossil Beach Farm
• 🌅 Finding peace and solitude at Whaling Station Bay
• ❤️ Reflections on why Hornby Island might be my favourite place in Canada

Travel storytelling • Immersive soundscapes • Coastal adventures • British Columbia travel • Island getaways • Road trips

💌 Share your thoughts: What’s your vision of Hornby Island after listening?

Want to travel with me to El Salvador?

Click this link to hear more - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000734952340

Click here to book - https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.

00:00 – Introduction – “The Hawaii of BC” and setting off on the journey

01:10 – Ferry to Vancouver Island – calm seas and early-morning reflections

03:00 – Road trip north + quick coffee stop in Qualicum Beach

04:30 – Ferry crossings to Denman and Hornby – anticipation builds

06:20 – Arrival at Tribune Bay Campground + island first impressions

08:00 – Exploring The Hub – breakfast burrito, coffee, and local vibe

09:45 – Tribune Bay – white sand, warm clear water, paradise found

12:30 – Hike to Mount Geoffrey – forest trails and sweeping views

15:00 – Sunset music and cider at Fossil Beach Farm

17:00 – Whaling Station Bay – quiet reflections and goodbyes

18:30 – Closing thoughts + why Hornby Island stole my...

That’s right — I’m officially leading my first-ever guided group tour, and we’re heading to El Salvador from November 19 to 29, 2026!

This 10-night, 11-day adventure blends culture, hiking, beaches, food, and local connection — designed for curious travellers who want to see El Salvador, far beyond the headlines.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s included:

🗺️ Highlights

• Explore San Salvador on a walking tour with local legend Dave Méndez
• Camp under the stars at Conchagua Volcano and wake up to sunrise views of El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua
• Learn to cook pupusas, the beloved national dish
• Discover the colonial charm of Suchitoto, visit Alejandro Cotto’s house, and enjoy lakeside sunsets.
• Experience the Civil War Trail in Cinquera with Daniel from Suchitoto Ecotours, ending at a jungle waterfall.
• Hike the stunning Santa Ana Volcano (3rd time lucky for me!) and enjoy coffee overlooking Lake Coatepeque.
• Wander colourful streets and artisan markets in Ataco on the Ruta de las Flores
• Tour a working coffee estate at El Carmen
• Chill by the Pacific coast in El Tunco and El Zonte — think surf, black-sand beaches, and good vibes

🏡 What’s Included

• 10 nights accommodation in twin share rooms (with private room upgrade available for USD 675)
• Private transport throughout the trip + airport transfers
• 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners
• Local Intrepid-licensed guide, driver and me as your tour leader
• Activities, walking tours and unique local experiences

💸 Price:

• Early bird rate: USD 3,995 for the first six bookings and $4295 thereafter.
• Full group: 12 people maximum (6 minimum to go ahead)

Flights, insurance, and some meals not included — but I’ll definitely be buying a few rounds of lattes along the way ☕

👉 Book your spot: https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142

This isn’t just a holiday — it’s an immersive experience that will change how you see Central America.

After years of helping other creators and brands bring their podcast ideas to life, I’ve launched Winging It Productions— a full-service podcast production business.

We offer:

🎙️ Podcast launch packages (from idea to release)

✂️ Audio editing for solo and guest episodes

👥 Guest and host management

📈 Marketing and growth support

If you’ve always wanted to start a show — or if you’re ready to scale an existing one — I’d love to help.

Learn more and book a free consultation at 👉 wingingitproductions.co