Best 80s Songs About Travel
The 1980s produced some of the most memorable songs that inspire wanderlust and adventure. With catchy tunes and vibrant lyrics, these songs capture the essence of hitting the open road or flying to distant places. Many of these songs still resonate with listeners, sparking memories and dreams of travel.
Whether you’re planning a road trip or just dreaming of a getaway, the best 80s travel songs add a sense of excitement and nostalgia to any journey. They remind us of an era when road trips and adventures were highlighted by an unforgettable soundtrack, making every trip feel like an epic adventure.
1. “Holiday Road” – Lindsey Buckingham
“Holiday Road” is a catchy song by Lindsey Buckingham, released in 1983. It was featured in the movie National Lampoon’s Vacation, which helped it gain popularity despite not being a major hit on the charts.
- Song Name: Holiday Road
- Name of the Album: National Lampoon’s Vacation Soundtrack
- Release Date: 1983
Why we included this song on the list
The song captures the excitement of a road trip, making it a perfect travel anthem. The upbeat tempo and fun lyrics resonate with the joys and adventures of traveling. It’s well-loved for its connection to a classic film that has become a staple of ’80s pop culture.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
Though it only reached number 82 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Holiday Road” remains one of Lindsey Buckingham’s best-known solo works. The song was used in several sequels of the original film, including National Lampoon’s European Vacation and Vegas Vacation.
2. “Africa” – Toto
- Song Name: Africa
- Album: Toto IV
- Release Date: 1982
“Africa” by Toto is a song that has captivated audiences since its release. It features a unique blend of rock and pop with inspired rhythms. The song tells of a longing for an idyllic and distant place, capturing the imagination of listeners around the globe.
Why we included this song on the list
The song stands out for its combination of catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics. Its themes of journey and exploration fit perfectly within the travel genre. It’s a track that listeners associate with adventure and discovery, making it a natural choice for a list of great 80s travel songs.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
“Africa” was the third single from Toto IV and became one of the band’s biggest hits. It has enjoyed enduring popularity, with both original and new audiences. The song features rich instrumental layers and harmonies, courtesy of band members David Paich and Jeff Porcaro. It has also been covered and sampled by many artists, solidifying its cultural impact.
3. “Roam” – The B-52’s
“Roam” is a classic travel-inspired song by The B-52’s. It captures the essence of exploration and freedom through its vibrant melody and engaging lyrics. Released in 1989, this track became a favorite for its upbeat and adventurous spirit.
- Song name: “Roam”
- Album: Cosmic Thing
- Release date: 1989
Why we included this song on the list
The song encourages listeners to embrace their wanderlust and explore new places. With its lively beats and catchy chorus, “Roam” perfectly embodies the excitement of travel. It’s a reminder that there’s a whole world out there waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
“Roam” was one of The B-52’s biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Known for its catchy refrain and energetic vibe, the song resonated with audiences around the world. Its lyrics, which encourage exploration and adventure, make it a timeless anthem for travelers. For those interested, the meaning and impact of “Roam” are discussed further on Song Meanings and Facts.
4. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” – The Proclaimers
“I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers is a catchy and energetic song by the Scottish duo Craig and Charlie Reid. Released in 1988, this track quickly became their most popular hit. The song embodies a spirit of commitment, journey, and devotion, making it a perfect addition to any travel-themed playlist.
- Song Name: I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)
- Album: Sunshine on Leith
- Release Date: 1988
Why we included this song on the list
This song captures the determination and relentless spirit of a person willing to go great distances for love. It describes the joy and effort put into traveling, making it a perfect example of a travel song that combines heartwarming lyrics with an unforgettable melody.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
“I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” became a significant hit in the United States in 1993, where it reached No. 3 on the Billboard chart. The song’s inclusion in the movie “Benny & Joon” helped boost its popularity in America. Despite being their only major hit in the U.S., The Proclaimers had several other successful songs in the UK. The music video for the song is also widely viewed on platforms like YouTube.
5. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” – John Denver
- Song Name: “Leaving on a Jet Plane”
- Album Name: “John Denver’s Greatest Hits”
- Release Date: 1973
“Leaving on a Jet Plane,” written by John Denver, captures the bittersweet emotion of saying goodbye at an airport. Although Denver wrote it, the song gained fame with Peter, Paul, and Mary’s 1969 version. This song is often associated with travel due to its vivid depiction of departure and longing.
Why we included this song on the list
This track is a quintessential travel song, tapping into feelings of exploration and separation. It beautifully conveys the emotions tied to leaving behind loved ones for new adventures. Its timeless appeal and emotional depth make it a standout travel song from the era.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
Although John Denver’s version is well-loved, his single initially did not chart. The song gathered more popularity when it was re-recorded in 1973 for his greatest hits album. Chantal Kreviazuk’s version in 1998 also saw success, reaching No. 33 in Canada. This shows the lasting impact of the song on listeners across different generations.
6. “Ventura Highway” – America
“Ventura Highway” is a classic song by the band America, featured on their second album. Released in 1972, the song quickly became a top 10 hit, known for its catchy guitar riff and laid-back vibe.
- Song name: Ventura Highway
- Album: Homecoming
- Release date: 1972
Why we included this song on the list
“Ventura Highway” embodies the spirit of travel with its breezy and optimistic feel. The song captures images of driving along the coastal road, invoking the freedom and excitement of exploring new places. Its popularity in the 1970s and lasting appeal make it a memorable addition to any travel playlist.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
Dewey Bunnell, a member of America, wrote “Ventura Highway” based on his childhood memories of road trips in Southern California. The song’s upbeat melody and lyrics evoke a dreamy sense of nostalgia. Many listeners find themselves humming along and feeling the urge to hit the open road.
Cultural Context of 80s Music
The 1980s was a decade marked by rapid changes and significant influences from both global events and technological advancements. These factors played a crucial role in shaping the music of that era.
Influence of Global Events
The 1980s was a time of significant political and social shifts, which influenced the music landscape. Events like the Cold War and the fall of the Berlin Wall were pivotal. Artists often expressed these themes in their lyrics, reflecting a desire for peace and unity.
Music was a powerful tool for raising awareness about global issues. For example, songs addressing apartheid in South Africa gained attention and support worldwide. In addition, the rise of MTV in 1981 brought music videos to the forefront, allowing musicians to visually convey messages related to these global themes.
Technological Advancements in Music
During the 80s, technology transformed the way music was created and consumed. The development of synthesizers and drum machines changed the sound of pop and rock music. Artists like Eurythmics took advantage of these tools, creating hit songs like “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”.
The introduction of the compact disc (CD) in the early 1980s revolutionized music distribution. It offered better sound quality and durability than vinyl records or cassette tapes. The CD’s popularity skyrocketed towards the decade’s end, resulting in increased sales and wider music accessibility. These technologies played a critical role in defining the sounds and styles of 80s music.
Themes of Travel in 80s Music
In the 1980s, travel-themed music often focused on the excitement of exploring new places and the desire to break free from everyday life. Musicians captured the spirit of adventure and the longing for escape, creating memorable tracks that resonate even today.
Exploration and Adventure
In the 80s, many songs vividly expressed a sense of discovery and wanderlust. Hits like “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson, highlighted the joy of journeying to unknown locations. These songs often used vibrant imagery and upbeat melodies to emphasize the thrill of the journey.
The lyrics suggested that exploring new horizons was both a physical and emotional experience. Artists conveyed stories of moving from city to city, capturing the essence of adventure and curiosity. Fans could easily connect with the spirit of exploration, feeling encouraged to embark on their own travels.
Some songs even told stories of long road trips, where the destination was less important than the experiences along the way. This theme resonated with listeners, igniting a sense of adventure and an eagerness to explore.
Escapism and Freedom
Escapism was another prominent theme in 80s travel music. Songs often portrayed travel as a way to escape the constraints of daily life. “Route 66” by Nat King Cole urged people to hit the road and find freedom on the highways.
The lyrics often touched on the desire to leave behind routine and experience the freedom that travel could provide. This was particularly appealing during a decade where societal changes prompted individuals to seek respite through music.
The idea of escaping through travel gave people a sense of liberation, allowing them to dream of faraway places. Artists used this theme to convey a powerful message of personal freedom, encouraging listeners to break free from their limitations and explore the world around them.
