Did you know that 85% of adults look to travel content creators for recommendations and inspiration for their next trip? In today’s digital age, social media influencers and vloggers have become go-to sources for wanderlust-inducing content, offering a glimpse into the world of travel through their own unique perspectives. While there are countless travel influencers out there, today we’re shining a spotlight on a group of lesser-known Gen Z travel influencers who are not only relatable to the average college student, but also offer invaluable inspiration and tips for their next adventures. With their fresh perspectives, adventurous spirits, and savvy travel insights, these rising stars are capturing the attention of young travelers seeking authentic experiences and budget-friendly travel hacks.
For college students eager to embark on their own travel adventures, following these Gen Z travel influencers is a must. Not only do they provide a relatable voice that resonates with the experiences and aspirations of today’s students, but they also offer practical advice and inspiration tailored to the unique needs of young travelers. From navigating the challenges of budget travel to embracing solo adventures with confidence, these influencers share their journeys with honesty, authenticity, and a healthy dose of wanderlust. Whether you’re dreaming of backpacking through Europe, volunteering in remote communities, or exploring hidden gems off the beaten path, these Gen Z travel influencers have something to offer every college traveler.
Join us as we delve into the stories and adventures of these inspiring young travelers and discover why you should look to them for inspiration and guidance when planning your next adventure! From sharing personal anecdotes and travel hacks to showcasing stunning destinations and cultural experiences, these travel influencers are paving the way for a new generation of adventurers eager to explore the world on their own terms. So grab your backpack, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to be inspired as we journey into the world of Gen Z travel influencers.
Dana Berez
Instagram: @danaberez, YouTube: @DanaBerez, Blog: danaberez.com
Dana Berez is a midwest girl, originally from Wisconsin, who made the leap to New York City over a decade ago to pursue her studies in Advertising & Marketing Communications at the Fashion Institute of Technology, earning her B.S. She fell in love with the vibrant energy of the city and decided to make it her permanent home.
Having lived in New York City for over 12 years, Dana has become a local expert. She has a blog that features a plethora of NYC guides, from the best bottomless brunch spots to insider tips for navigating the city like a true local. Additionally, she shares her travel experiences and recommendations from destinations around the world. Her blog revolves around her two greatest passions: Fashion and Travel. Dana has a natural talent for curating the best travel essentials and crafting stylish vacation outfits. With her keen eye for detail, she helps her readers plan their travel wardrobe with ease.
In addition to her blog, Dana runs a YouTube channel where she regularly uploads videos sharing her fashion and travel recommendations. From packing guides to city exploration vlogs, Dana’s channel is a treasure trove of inspiration for fashion-forward travelers.
Some of Dana’s best moments captured on camera include exhilarating hikes through lush rainforests, heartwarming encounters with locals in remote villages, and awe-inspiring sunsets over pristine beaches. Whether she’s navigating the chaotic streets of a bustling metropolis or immersing herself in the tranquility of nature, Dana’s zest for life shines through in every frame, inspiring her followers to embrace the beauty of the world around them.
What drives Dana’s love of travel is a deep-seated curiosity and a thirst for adventure. For her, travel is not just about ticking off destinations on a bucket list but about immersing herself in different cultures, embracing new experiences, and expanding her horizons. From sampling exotic cuisines to learning phrases in unfamiliar languages, Dana thrives on the thrill of exploration and the joy of discovery.
At the core of Dana’s wanderlust is a belief in the transformative power of travel—that stepping out of one’s comfort zone and experiencing the world in all its diversity can lead to personal growth, empathy, and a deeper understanding of humanity. Through her captivating storytelling and practical travel tips, Dana seeks to inspire others to break free from the confines of routine, embrace the unknown, and embark on their own adventures, one unforgettable journey at a time.
Follow Dana for:
- Budget travel tips
- Solo female travel inspiration
- Stunning travel photography
- Affordable midsize fashion for travel
Gabby Beckford
Instagram: @packslight, YouTube: @packslight, Website/Blog: packslight.com
Gabby Beckford is a prominent travel blogger and influencer known for her adventurous spirit, insightful travel tips, and captivating storytelling. Originally from the bustling city of Atlanta, Georgia, Gabby’s passion for travel was ignited at a young age, inspired by her curiosity about the world and a desire to explore new cultures and experiences. Moving around as a military brat, Gabby never quite felt like she fit in growing up. Luckily, she prefers standing out.
At age 17, Gabby took her first solo trip to Iceland and discovered her happy place: anywhere except her comfort zone. And that the quickest way there was through travel! She’s been seeking creative ways to fuel (and fund) her sense of adventure ever since. Since then, Gabby has embarked on countless adventures around the world, from backpacking through Europe to volunteering in remote communities in Africa, documenting her journeys through her blog, @packslight, and social media channels. She’s been to more than 45 countries since!
Some of Gabby’s top-viewed trips on her blog and Instagram showcase her love for off-the-beaten-path destinations and immersive cultural experiences. From exploring ancient ruins in Southeast Asia to trekking through the jungles of Central America, Gabby’s content captures the essence of adventure and inspires her audience to embrace the beauty of exploration.
One of Gabby’s most memorable moments as a traveler was when she participated in a homestay in a rural village in Ghana, immersing herself in the local culture and forging deep connections with the community members. Through her blog and social media platforms, Gabby shared her transformative experience, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange and meaningful travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing.
What drives Gabby’s love of travel is not just the thrill of seeing new places, but also the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, fostering understanding and empathy in an increasingly interconnected world. As a firm believer in the power of travel to inspire personal growth and transformation, Gabby is dedicated to empowering current college travelers to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the transformative power of exploration.
Gabby’s blog, @packslight, features a wealth of resources and practical advice for college travelers, including destination guides, packing tips, budget travel hacks, and personal anecdotes from her own adventures. With its user-friendly layout and informative content, Gabby’s blog serves as a valuable resource for aspiring travelers, providing them with the inspiration and guidance they need to embark on their own unforgettable journeys around the globe. Every day she empowers her community to stop waiting for permission and to live with the delusional confidence that they are capable of any and everything.
Follow Gabby for:
- Solo travel guidance
- Packing essentials & tips
- Budget travel hacks
- Destination guides & itineraries
Amogh Matthews
YouTube: @alvatheexplorer5051, TikTok: @alvatheexplorer
Amogh Matthews, otherwise known as Alva the Explorer, is a seasoned traveler who has dedicated himself to exploring the world through the lens of local communities. Originally hailing from Stockholm, Sweden, Amogh developed a deep passion for travel from a young age, inspired by his curiosity about different cultures and his desire to connect with people from around the globe.
Some of Amogh’s top-viewed trips on his blog and social media platforms showcase his commitment to highlighting local perspectives and experiences. From immersing himself in traditional ceremonies in remote villages to sampling street food in bustling markets, Amogh’s content offers a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of each destination he visits.
One of Amogh’s most memorable moments as a traveler was when he participated in a homestay experience in a rural village in Thailand. Living with a local family allowed him to forge deep connections with the community and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. Through his blog and social media channels, Amogh shared his transformative experience, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and meaningful connections in travel.
What drives Amogh’s love of travel is his belief that exploration should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial means. With a mission to spread the message that travel is for everyone, Amogh advocates for budget-friendly travel options and encourages his followers to seek out authentic experiences that showcase the rich diversity of our world. Through his content, he hopes to inspire others to step outside their comfort zones, connect with people from different backgrounds, and embark on their own adventures, armed with nothing more than a spirit of curiosity and an open heart.
Amogh’s motto, “Exploring the world through local eyes,” encapsulates his approach to travel and his commitment to highlighting the beauty and diversity of local cultures. By showcasing the perspectives and stories of local people, Amogh invites his audience to see the world through a different lens and gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of our global community.
Follow Amogh for:
- Budget travel tips
- Solo travel inspiration
- Cultural Exchange and Global Citizenship
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
Kristen Bor
Instagram: @bearfoottheory, Blog: bearfoottheory.com
Kristen Bor is a travel blogger whose passion for exploration knows no bounds. With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Kristen’s work has been featured in prestigious publications such as National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker. When she’s not on the road, Kristen resides in Park City, Utah, with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.
Through her Instagram account and blog, Kristen shares her adventures and offers practical tips for affordable travel, packing essentials, and cultural experiences. Whether she’s sampling street food in bustling markets or immersing herself in local traditions, Kristen’s content reflects her curiosity and enthusiasm for discovering the world one destination at a time.
Throughout her travels, Kristen has explored a myriad of destinations, each leaving a lasting impression on her and her followers. Kristen’s backpacking journey through Southeast Asia captured the hearts of her audience, as she navigated bustling markets, serene beaches, and ancient temples. From the vibrant streets of Bangkok to the tranquil rice fields of Bali, Kristen’s immersive storytelling transported viewers to exotic locales and inspired wanderlust in all who followed along.
Her European escapade showcased the continent’s rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse cultures. From romantic strolls along the canals of Venice to adrenaline-pumping adventures in the Swiss Alps, Kristen’s European journey was a whirlwind of unforgettable moments and breathtaking scenery.
Kristen’s exploration of Latin America introduced her audience to the region’s vibrant culture, colorful landscapes, and warm hospitality. Whether she was salsa dancing in the streets of Cartagena or hiking to ancient ruins in Peru, Kristen’s Latin American expedition was a testament to her love of adventure and discovery.
What drives Kristen’s love of travel is her innate curiosity and desire to experience the world in all its diversity. For Kristen, travel is not just about checking off destinations on a bucket list but immersing oneself in new cultures, forging connections with people from different backgrounds, and gaining a deeper understanding of the world. Whether she’s exploring ancient ruins, sampling street food, or learning a new language, Kristen approaches each adventure with an open heart and a sense of wonder, inspiring others to do the same.
Kristen Bor’s journey as a travel influencer is a testament to the transformative power of exploration and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to venture beyond their comfort zone. Through her captivating storytelling, stunning photography, and infectious enthusiasm, Kristen continues to inspire others to embrace the spirit of adventure and embark on their own journeys of discovery.
Follow Kristen for:
- Affordable travel tips
- Packing hacks and essentials
- Cultural immersion experiences
Taylor Polcyn
Instagram: @taylorpolcyn, TikTok: @taylorpolcyn2
Taylor Polcyn is a vibrant and energetic travel influencer who has quickly captured the hearts of her audience with her infectious enthusiasm and sense of adventure. Originally hailing from the picturesque town of Aspen, Colorado, Taylor’s love affair with travel began at a young age, fueled by her curiosity about the world and a desire to explore new cultures and experiences.
Currently attending university at the University of California, Berkeley, Taylor balances her academic pursuits with her passion for travel, often seizing every opportunity to embark on new adventures during breaks and holidays. Despite the demands of her studies, Taylor’s wanderlust knows no bounds, and she’s always on the lookout for her next thrilling escapade.
Some of Taylor’s top-viewed trips on TikTok and Instagram showcase her penchant for off-the-beaten-path destinations and spontaneous adventures. From road trips along the rugged coastlines of California to hiking through remote wilderness areas, Taylor’s content captures the essence of exploration and inspires viewers to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the unknown.
One of Taylor’s most memorable moments was when she spontaneously decided to backpack through Europe solo during her summer break. Documenting her journey through captivating TikTok videos and Instagram posts, Taylor shared her highs and lows, from getting lost in foreign cities to forging meaningful connections with fellow travelers along the way. Through her candid storytelling and infectious energy, Taylor’s travel adventures resonate with viewers of all ages, encouraging them to pursue their own dreams of exploration and discovery.
What drives Taylor’s love of travel is not just the thrill of seeing new places, but also the profound sense of connection and personal growth that comes from immersing herself in different cultures and environments. For Taylor, travel is more than just ticking off destinations on a bucket list—it’s about embracing the unknown, challenging herself to step outside her comfort zone, and forging lasting memories and friendships along the way.
As Taylor continues to inspire her audience with her vibrant personality and adventurous spirit, her journey as a travel influencer is just beginning. With each new destination she explores and each story she shares, Taylor invites viewers to join her on an exhilarating journey of discovery and self-discovery, reminding us all that the world is full of endless possibilities for those who dare to dream and explore.
Taylor Polcyn is a rising star in the world of travel influencers, captivating audiences with her vibrant TikTok videos and stunning Instagram posts. While her online presence is relatively new, Taylor’s infectious energy and adventurous spirit have already earned her a dedicated following. From sharing travel hacks to showcasing hidden gems off the beaten path, Taylor’s content inspires viewers to embrace spontaneity and explore the world with a sense of wonder and excitement.
Follow Taylor for:
- Insider tips and hidden gems
- Spontaneous travel adventures
- Infectious energy and enthusiasm
The world of travel influencers and vloggers is brimming with inspiring individuals who are not only college students but also passionate adventurers with a wealth of knowledge to share. Whether you’re seeking budget travel tips, solo female travel inspiration, or practical advice for balancing academics and wanderlust, these travel influencers offer a wealth of resources to fuel your wanderlust and turn your travel dreams into reality. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and follow along on their journeys—it’s time to explore the world one adventure at a time.
