Wanderlust Reading List: 20 Must-Read Books for Your Global Adventures

Pack your bags, grab one of these captivating books, and let the pages transport you to distant lands as you embark on your global adventures.

Traveling the world is an enriching experience that broadens our horizons and opens our minds to new cultures, perspectives, and ideas. And what better way to complement the excitement of exploring new destinations than with a good book?

Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or a family vacation, having a curated list of captivating books can enhance your travel experience and transport you to different corners of the world from the comfort of your seat.

Many of these travel books are best read when you’re actually in the country they are set in; for example, reading Shantaram in India is a really fantastic experience and you will get a lot more out of the book. Same goes for books about backpacking in general, they just seem to make the experience much more reflective.

We’ve curated a list of 20 captivating books that will transport you to different worlds, cultures, and perspectives while you traverse the globe. From thrilling adventures to poignant memoirs, this reading list is your passport to literary exploration.

“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

• A timeless tale of self-discovery and following one’s dreams that resonates with travelers on their personal journeys.

“Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert

• Join Elizabeth Gilbert as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery through Italy, India, and Indonesia.

“Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer

• The gripping true story of Christopher McCandless, who abandons civilization for the Alaskan wilderness, challenging conventional ideas about life and adventure.

“Wild” by Cheryl Strayed

• A powerful memoir recounting Cheryl Strayed’s solo trek of over 1,000 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail, reflecting on life, loss, and redemption.

“Shantaram” by Gregory David Roberts

• An epic tale of an Australian fugitive’s life in the slums of Mumbai, offering a rich portrayal of the city and its vibrant culture.

“The Beach” by Alex Garland

• Follow the protagonist’s quest for an idyllic hidden beach in Thailand, exploring themes of paradise and the consequences of utopia.

“In a Sunburned Country” by Bill Bryson

• Join Bill Bryson on his humorous and informative journey through Australia, showcasing the country’s unique landscapes and culture.

“The Geography of Bliss” by Eric Weiner

• A delightful exploration of happiness and its cultural variations as the author travels to different countries searching for the keys to a contented life.

“Tracks” by Robyn Davidson

• A true adventure story recounting Robyn Davidson’s solo journey across the Australian Outback with her camels.

“A Walk in the Woods” by Bill Bryson

• Bill Bryson’s hilarious account of his attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail, blending humor with insights into the natural world.

“Into Thin Air” by Jon Krakauer

• The gripping firsthand account of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster, providing a harrowing look at the challenges of high-altitude mountaineering.

“The Lost City of Z” by David Grann

• Uncover the mystery of explorer Percy Fawcett’s quest for a mythical city in the Amazon rainforest.

“Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” by Robert M. Pirsig

• A philosophical journey exploring the author’s motorcycle trip and reflections on the nature of quality and the meaning of life.

“The Art of Travel” by Alain de Botton

• Alain de Botton explores the philosophical aspects of travel, offering insights on the nature of exploration and the impact of new landscapes.

“Dark Star Safari” by Paul Theroux

• Paul Theroux’s epic overland journey from Cairo to Cape Town, providing a vivid portrayal of Africa and its diverse cultures.

“Under the Tuscan Sun” by Frances Mayes

• Join Frances Mayes as she renovates a villa in Tuscany, sharing her love for the Italian countryside and its culinary delights.

“Turn Right at Machu Picchu” by Mark Adams

• A humorous and informative journey through Peru as the author retraces the steps of Hiram Bingham, the explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu.

“The Great Railway Bazaar” by Paul Theroux

• An iconic travelogue chronicling Paul Theroux’s journey by train from London through Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

“The Signature of All Things” by Elizabeth Gilbert

• An enthralling historical novel spanning continents and centuries, exploring the world of botany, love, and adventure.

“The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared” by Jonas Jonasson

• A humorous and quirky tale of an adventurous centenarian who escapes his nursing home, leading to unexpected encounters and escapades.