10 Best Songs For Instagram Stories Travel
Travelling to exciting new destinations and having memorable experiences are some of the best parts of life. Capturing those special moments in Instagram stories is a great way to share your adventures with friends and family back home. But the right music can take your Instagram travel stories to the next level and truly encapsulate the mood and essence of your journey.
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Upbeat, Feel-Good Travel Songs
When you’re headed on vacation or ticking off your bucket list with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, an upbeat, energetic song is perfect for getting followers excited about your travels. Some top upbeat songs to use for travel Instagram stories include:
“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys
This fun surf rock classic instantly conjures visions of sun, sand, and paradise island getaways. Use it over videos riding the waves or relaxing on the beach.
“Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves
It is a happy, feel-good song highlighting how great travel makes you feel. Pair with scenic vista lookouts, travel buddies having fun, or even the blissful hotel pool.
“Life Is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts
A faster cover of the Tom Cochrane hit, this country version captures the momentum of a road trip. Use for driving montages, witnessing extraordinary roadside oddities, or even boarding trains and planes bound for adventure.
Reflective Songs for Epic Travel Moments
Sometimes, when we travel, we’re lucky enough to experience truly special, even epic moments that take our breath away. For those meaningful memories, a poignant, emotional song is critical. Top reflective songs for travel Instagram stories include:
“A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay
This atmospheric ballad is perfect for gazing up at the stars in remote destinations untouched by light pollution, like campsites in New Zealand or sailboats in Tahiti.
“I Will Follow You Into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie
Quietly capture a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle with this intimate love song, like seeing the Northern Lights dance across arctic skies.
“Home” by Phillip Phillips
Sometimes, travel reveals our life back home through a brand new lens. Capture the moment you set your eyes on iconic skylines like Paris and New York with this folksy ode to the comforts of home.
Famous Songs That Suit Any Travel Vibe
You can never go wrong adding these hugely popular songs to capture the spirit, people, scenes, and pure joy of travel in your Instagram stories:
“Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
No song better encapsulates the call of adventure on the open road or train track. Use for rural landscapes and country vistas.
“Dance Monkey” by Tones And I
This infectiously funky hit fuels the party mood wherever you are. Pair with nightlife, celebrations, and bustling city scenes.
“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
Dance clubs, new friendships kindling over drinks at the hostel bar, first kisses with a holiday romance – this alternative rock hit soundtracks it all.
“Africa” by Toto
Are you on safari watching rhinos graze at golden hour or camping under the stars in the Serengeti? This soft rock classic fits African adventures like a glove.
No matter your travel style, pace, or destination – upbeat anthems, reflective ballads, or fan favourites – the right song choice can make your Instagram stories unforgettable. So pack the proper tunes in your carry-on before you jet off on your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still, have questions about the best travel songs to use on social media? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How do I add music to Instagram Stories?
In the Instagram Stories composer, look for the music icon (a musical note) on the top navigation bar. Select it to open a catalogue of songs sorted into categories like Trending, Moods, and Genres or search for a specific theme. Once selected, the music will automatically play over a portion of your Instagram Story.
Does the music play for my followers, too?
Yes! The music will be embedded in your Instagram Story, so anyone who views it will hear the accompanying song.
Do I need permission to use songs on social media?
Thanks to agreements between social platforms and record labels, you don’t need the artist’s direct permission. However, the artist and label retain rights to the recording. Instagram states you can use music for “personal, non-commercial uses” but advises checking songwriter or publisher policies for details.
What happens if I use a song Instagram doesn’t have licensing rights for?
Your Instagram Story will be removed, and your account may receive a copyright warning if you use music outside Instagram’s available catalogue without permission. Avoid seeking songs outside their system or splitting/extending clips longer than the allowed time.
Can I use the same songs as someone else in my Instagram Stories?
Definitely! Multiple people can and often do use the same popular songs since Instagram music clips are short. Your visuals paired with the clip will make it uniquely your own Instagram Story.
