In today's digital age, travel influencers play a pivotal role in shaping our holiday decisions, often guiding where we choose to go, stay, and what experiences we seek. With visually curated content and personal storytelling, these influencers can turn once-obscure destinations into must-visit hotspots. According to a 2024 report by Statista, over 5 billion people use social media globally, and nearly 75% of users admit that social platforms—especially Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube—influence their travel choices. In fact, a recent study by Expedia found that 52% of travelers aged 18–34 booked a trip based on a post they saw online. As a result, travel influencers have become powerful marketing tools, often shaping trends and directing foot traffic more effectively than traditional advertising.
How do travel influencers impact our holiday destinations?
Travel influencers often do more than simply document their trips—they curate them through visually engaging content that highlights hidden gems, trending hotspots, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Through high-quality photography, immersive video reels, and authentic storytelling, they bring destinations to life in a way that traditional travel brochures can't. Whether it’s a quiet beach in the Philippines, a cosy mountain cabin in the Alps, or a street food market in Vietnam, these influencers make unfamiliar places feel tangible and desirable. Their personal stories—ranging from cultural encounters to travel mishaps—build trust and relatability, helping followers imagine themselves in those very locations. With behind-the-scenes tips, itinerary suggestions, and real-time reactions, they don’t just promote travel—they guide it. This emotional connection can be powerful, often turning casual interest into booked flights and packed suitcases.
Why do we trust travel influencers when planning our holidays?
Because they feel relatable. Unlike traditional corporate advertisements, which often showcase idealised, polished versions of travel, influencers share personal and unscripted moments from their journeys. Whether it’s a breathtaking view at sunrise, a missed flight, or an unexpectedly charming local café, their content reflects the highs and lows of real travel. These genuine reactions, honest reviews, and behind-the-scenes insights help humanise the experience. Instead of feeling like passive consumers, we feel like we're getting advice from a well-travelled friend. Influencers also interact with their audience, answering questions, giving recommendations, and even adjusting their content based on follower feedback. This two-way relationship fosters trust and makes us more likely to consider their suggestions when choosing where to go and what to do on our holidays.
Who are the Top 20 Travel influencers to Check Out this Summer?
Take a look at the official list of the Top 20 Travel influencers, curated by Director Jack Hayes and Senior Celebrity & Brand Partnership Executive Laura Hayes. This selection is informed by insights from 148 exclusive consumer polls, evaluating the effectiveness of campaigns led by mental health influencers.
1. 2 Travel Dads
Rob and Chris Taylor, known as 2 Travel Dads, run the first LGBT family travel blog. They travel with their two sons, sharing family adventures across the U.S. and abroad. Through their blog, Instagram, and podcast, they offer travel tips, parenting insights, and stunning photos—making their content relatable and helpful for families, especially within the LGBT community. Their posts capture both beautiful destinations and real-life family moments.
2. Becoming Filipino
Kyle, known as Becoming Filipino, is a Canadian travel vlogger who rose to fame after sharing a heartfelt documentary on his experiences in the Philippines. His YouTube channel, launched in 2006, gained massive traction thanks to his authentic, vlog-style content. Kyle shares travel tips, local food adventures, and cultural insights—especially across the Philippines. He’s earned awards like the 2016 Choose Philippines Best Pinoy at Heart and continues to inspire with every upload.
3. Benny & Nic
Benaiah and Nic, known as Benny and Nic, are an adventurous influencer couple who rose to fame on Love is Blind UK, where they married without ever seeing each other. Their journey blends travel, wellness, and intentional living, inspiring a loyal audience through authentic storytelling. From exploring new destinations to sharing mindful moments, they create engaging content that celebrates connection, personal growth, and meaningful relationships.
4. Beth Sandland
Beth Sandland is a Cotswolds-based content creator known for her honest storytelling, striking photography, and thoughtful writing. From beauty blogging to global travel and now motherhood, Beth shares life’s highs and lows with empathy and depth. Her blog covers everything from mental health to eco-conscious living, while her popular online book club connects over 7,000 readers. With a background in Law and Anthropology, Beth’s content remains grounded, inspiring, and deeply relatable.
5. Elle Next Door
Elle is a London-born travel and lifestyle influencer whose adventures span Europe—from Paris to Greece and beyond. After working on major TV shows like The X-Factor and Britain’s Got Talent, she left production at 18 to pursue blogging full-time. Her stylish, visually rich content blends travel, fashion, and photography across her blog, Instagram, and YouTube. Elle’s engaging storytelling has led to collaborations with top brands like Polo Ralph Lauren and Groupon.
6. Ellie Hecht
Ellie Hecht is a London-based lifestyle, travel, fashion, and beauty influencer known for her stunning Instagram presence and empowering voice. From beach escapes to red carpet events, she shares a glamorous yet authentic view of her life. Proudly Jewish, Ellie uses her platform to combat antisemitism and promote awareness, while also advocating for mental health. Her honest content has inspired many to embrace their identity and speak up for what they believe in.
7. Elle Wilmot
Elle Wilmot is the founder of Truly Twenties, a relatable lifestyle brand that speaks to the real experiences of navigating your twenties. Through candid content on Instagram, she tackles everything from career struggles to mental health and self-discovery. Known for her raw honesty and refreshing vulnerability, Elle has built a supportive community that finds comfort and inspiration in her words. Her platform empowers young adults to embrace life’s ups and downs with authenticity and confidence.
8. Jack Morris
Jack Morris, known online as Do You Travel, is a Manchester-born travel influencer whose stunning photography has captured global attention. Once a carpet cleaner, Jack now explores breathtaking destinations like Bali, Thailand, and Marrakech, sharing vivid images of landscapes, wildlife, and life on the road. Alongside his partner Lauren Bullen—whom he met while traveling in Fiji—Jack creates captivating content on Instagram and YouTube, turning his adventures into visual storytelling masterpieces.
9. Lawrence Walton
Lawrence Walton is a UK-based luxury travel and lifestyle influencer known for his refined aesthetic and immersive storytelling. Showcasing the world’s most stunning destinations—from Mediterranean coastlines to alpine retreats—his content captures elegance, authenticity, and adventure. With expertise in high-end photography and videography, Lawrence shares opulent hotels, fine dining, and curated experiences that inspire aspirational travel. His strong connection with his audience and premium brand collaborations make him a standout voice in luxury digital storytelling.
10. Normadic Matt
Matt Kepnes, better known as Nomadic Matt, is a renowned travel expert, blogger, and New York Times bestselling author who turned his passion into a global career. After leaving his full-time job and taking his first trip abroad at 23, Matt fell in love with travel and never looked back. He’s since visited over 70 countries, sharing practical guides and insights with his large online audience, inspiring thousands to explore the world affordably and meaningfully.
11. The Blonde Abroad
Kiersten Rich, founder of The Blonde Abroad, is a California-born travel influencer who turned a three-month sabbatical into a full-time globetrotting career. Formerly in corporate wealth management, Kiersten now inspires millions through her award-winning blog focused on solo female travel. Having explored 70 countries and flown over 845,000 miles, her content blends destination guides, packing tips, and personal insights. With features in Forbes, The New York Times, and Cosmopolitan, Kiersten is a leading voice in global travel.
12. The Travel Camel
Shane Dallas, known as The Travel Camel, is a solo travel photographer and blogger who has built a career exploring the world’s lesser-traveled paths. With a focus on cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-track destinations, Shane shares captivating stories and stunning photography through his blog and Instagram. Advocating for the unique benefits of solo travel, he inspires his growing audience to embrace independence, connect deeply with local cultures, and discover the world on their own terms.
13. Travels with a Kilt
Neil, known online as Travels With A Kilt, is a Scottish travel blogger and content creator who left the office life behind to explore the world. Through his blog, YouTube channel, and Instagram, Neil shares authentic travel experiences, focusing on off-the-beaten-path destinations and cultural discovery. His storytelling and passion for lesser-known places inspire his followers to seek out new adventures beyond the typical tourist trail, making his content both refreshing and insightful.
14. Travel Mad Dad
Shaun, the face behind Travel Mad Dad, is one half of the adventurous influencer duo alongside his wife Karen (Travel Mad Mum). Together, they’ve built a global following by proving that life—and travel—doesn’t have to slow down after having kids. From RV living to long-haul flights with their four children, including newborn twins, the family documents every adventure. Based in Abu Dhabi, Shaun shares travel tips, parenting insights, and honest family moments that inspire other parents to explore the world.
15. Travel Mad Mum
Karen Edwards, the force behind Travel Mad Mum, is a leading travel influencer who’s redefining what it means to explore the world with kids. A mother of four and a nursing director, Karen has visited over 90 countries and built a thriving community of travel-loving parents. From RV life to luxury living in Abu Dhabi and soon Sri Lanka, her honest, practical advice and inspiring stories make her a go-to voice for family travel worldwide.
16. Tayla Stevenson
Tayla Stevenson is a 24-year-old actress and social media star from Sydney, now based in Los Angeles, making waves in both entertainment and digital media. With over 670K TikTok followers and 60K on Instagram, she creates relatable, engaging content on dating, fashion, acting, and life in Hollywood. Known for her authenticity and humour, Tayla has worked with top brands like Fenty Beauty, Tommy Hilfiger, and Sephora, all while building a promising acting career.
17. Suzie Mcbride
Suzie McBride is a UK-based fashion, lifestyle, and travel influencer who proves that style has no age limit. At 43, she’s built a loyal Instagram following of 84,000 with her elegant, relatable content blending high-street fashion, motherhood, and global travel. A devoted wife, mum of two, and CEO of Made Just 4 U, Suzie shares real-life moments and entrepreneurial insights—offering inspiration for women balancing family, career, and personal style with confidence.
18. Sebastian Melrose
Sebastian Melrose is a professional racing driver, entrepreneur, and reality TV star from Scotland, best known for his breakout role on Netflix’s Too Hot To Handle, where he finished as a runner-up. A bilingual athlete with Salvadoran and Scottish roots, Sebastian made racing history at 16 and has since co-founded Reprimo Life, a wellness supplement brand. Balancing business, sport, and influencer life, he shares travel, fashion, and lifestyle content with a highly engaged social media following.
19. Scarlett London
Scarlett London is a multi-talented travel, fashion, and lifestyle influencer known for her aspirational yet relatable content. Her blog, which aims to bridge the gap between dreams and reality, has taken her to stunning destinations like Qatar, Mexico, and Thailand. With a strong following and brand partnerships including Noughty Haircare and Sandals, Scarlett also runs Scarlett London Digital, one of the UK’s leading influencer networking platforms, solidifying her influence both online and in the industry.
20. Ryan Libbey
Ryan Libbey is a fitness influencer and former Made in Chelsea star who has built a strong online presence across YouTube and Instagram. With over 3 million views on his YouTube channel, Ryan shares health, fitness, travel, and lifestyle content with his growing fanbase. A Cardiff Met Sports Biomedicine graduate, he’s also a fitness model and ambassador, partnering with brands like Foreo and Volkswagen. Alongside fiancée Louise Thompson, he documents their life and travels, inspiring followers with authentic, wellness-focused content.
How to Hire a Travel Influencer
If you are interested in hiring a Travel Influencer from our exclusive selection to elevate your next campaign, contact us today!
Speak directly with one of our dedicated Matchmakers on 0203 9580 427 to explore every aspect of your campaign — from concept and theme to budget and execution. Prefer to get started online? Simply complete our online contact form to begin the booking process. Elevate your next campaign with the genuine reach and trusted impact our influencers consistently deliver.
