Classic Western songs you’ll want to listen to on a trip: Travel songs from around the world
Music is essential for long journeys.
Listening to nostalgic Japanese songs and soaking in memories is great, but every now and then, why not head toward your destination with a swelling sense of excitement for unknown places while listening to Western music?
For those of you who feel that way, we’ve selected classic Western tracks perfect for travel.
We’ve picked not only timeless staples but also the latest hits—and even songs themed around travel—curating numbers that fit your trip from a variety of angles.
Be sure to find the tracks that suit you!
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Classic Western songs perfect for travel: Top travel songs from around the world (1–10)
Good LifeOneRepublic
When you set off on a journey, you often make new discoveries and encounter the unexpected.
In that sense, you could say that travel enriches life.
That very message is embedded in “Good Life.” It’s a track by the rock band OneRepublic from their album Waking Up.
The song portrays traveling around the world and how travel helps make life better.
The lyrics are packed with the allure of travel.
Counting StarsOneRepublic
A signature song by the American pop rock band OneRepublic makes the perfect travel companion.
Known for its distinctive sound that blends folk-pop and pop rock elements, it sings about holding on to hope even when facing financial uncertainty and life’s challenges.
Released in June 2013, the track dominated charts worldwide, peaking at No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching No.
1 in the UK.
Featured in the end credits of the 2014 sci-fi film Earth to Echo, this song is recommended for anyone setting off for a new place with courage and hope in their heart.
Castle on the HillEd Sheeran
A coming-of-age reminiscence penned by Ed Sheeran from the UK.
Brimming with love for his hometown, it vividly portrays experiences from his childhood up to around age fifteen.
Adventures with friends, first love, and a steadfast affection for his hometown that endures into adulthood resonate alongside Sheeran’s warm vocals.
Released in January 2017, this piece captured many hearts as a track on the album ÷ (Divide).
It was also featured in the trailer for the animated film Ferdinand, drawing even more attention.
A recommended song for those who feel nostalgia or long for their youthful days.
MotherMeghan Trainor
Meghan Trainor is an American singer-songwriter who has gained popularity for her distinctive style that adapts doo-wop—a genre that trended in the 1950s—to a modern sound.
Among her songs, this track, themed around female empowerment, is a must-listen.
Released in March 2023, it is included on the deluxe edition of her fifth major-label studio album, Takin’ It Back.
Its rhythmic melody and powerful message will give you the energy to make a long journey more enjoyable.
The lyrics, which champion women’s strength, are sure to resonate with many listeners.
Running on EmptyJackson Browne
The title track from Jackson Browne’s fifth album.
It’s one of his signature songs and was released as a single in Japan under the title “Kodoku na Runner” (Lonely Runner).
It was also memorably used in the Academy Award–winning film Forrest Gump.