Those of us in midlife may smirk at the term “influencer” (like, that’s a real job?), but the truth is content creators can generate informative, inspirational words and pictures about their passions and, yes, make money in the process. When it comes to travel, the best of these social media stars share details about their journeys—how to get there, what to do there, even what to watch out for while there. Travel influencers can help the budget-conscious save on transportation, lodging, tour, and shopping or entice big spenders (or let wannabe billionaires live vicariously).
NextTribe is known for taking small groups of women age 45+ on transformational, fun trips around the globe. Take a look at where we go and what we offer here.
Plus, not all of them are Millennials (or younger folk) whose idea of a good time would be exhausting to read about, much less attempt. So while some of the most popular travel influencers may have millions of followers, we curated the enormous field to find those that women 45+ can relate to and rely on for trustworthy tourism content. We also sussed out a few special interest types for those intrigued by particular destinations or activities (okay, by activities we mean, eating!).
Since most post on a variety of platforms, you can pick your favorite—Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest, or X, as well as good old blogs, vlogs, websites, and newsletters. So get ready to meet the social sojourner who’ll help you plan your next great getaway.
Travel Influencer: Rick Steves
An oldie but a goodie, Rick Steves was helping folks find their way around Europe waaaay before the term “influencer” came into the vernacular. In addition to his popular website, a fount of free travel info, he produces a guidebook series, a public television show, a weekly public radio show, and a syndicated travel column. He also runs group tours that take some 30,000 travelers across the pond annually. The New York Times called Steves “one of the legendary PBS super dorks, right there with Mr. Rogers, Bob Ross, and Big Bird.”
Travel Influencer: Julia Gal
Love luxury? Then Julia Gal is literally your gal! With an enormous audience of eight-million-plus followers on TikTok alone, Julia Gal delights those who enjoy the high life on the go, often posting aspirational (okay, enviable!) videos of ritzy hotels, resorts, and cruises. She has a particular penchant for beds suspended over azure waters, overlooking breathtaking views, and while she says nary a word as she strolls through her quick flicks, you’ll no doubt emit an audible “Aaaahhhh!” watching them.
Julia Gal’s visits to ritzy hotels, resorts, and cruises will have you saying ‘Aaaahhhh!’
Travel Influencer: Naomi Jane Adams
Another leading lady of luxury travel, Naomi Jane Adams spent two decades in the tourism industry as a PR and marketing pro before turning influencer. No wonder her one million Instagram followers rely on her, not just for tourism info but fashion and lifestyle as well. Her dominance has been touted by Forbes and Travel and Leisure, and of her most popular videos features a trip to Saudi Arabia’s Elephant Rock, netting more than 1.7 million views.
Traveler Influencer: Jennifer Tuffen
Many prominent travel influencers initially made their mark as photographers, and while the field is full of men, Jennifer Tuffen holds her own with some 2.8 million Instagram followers. Her lively images are artistic yet accessible (colorful, dreamy, playful) and her captions are full of personal style. One significant partnership was with Tourism Australia, showcasing everything from bustling cities to natural landscapes. She describes her stuff as girly-girl yet adventurous, noting that she “loves all things pink, dresses, makeup . . . but I’ll also be the first to cliff dive, climb a tree, or roll around in mud.”
Travel Influencer: Charlotte Simpson
A 60-something woman of color, Charlotte Simpson always loved traveling with her husband; after his passing, she continued to pursue her passion under the moniker of the Traveling Black Widow. (Sounds like a super heroine origin story to us!) With seven continents and all 50 states under her belt, she documents her sojourns with insightful blog and Instagram posts that have an emphasis on wellness; she also often travels with her daughter Liz and has tips to share on making that go smoothly. Charlotte is among AARP’s “grandfluencers,” made CondeNast’s Power List in 2024, and has been shouted out by every publication from the Daily Mail and The Washington Post to Forbes and Travel and Leisure.
Meet Charlotte Simpson, the Traveling Black Widow and one of AARP’s ‘grandfluencers’
Travel Influencer: Matt Kepnes
If traveling on a budget is essential, check in with Nomadic Matt, whose motto is “Travel smarter, cheaper, longer.” The New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day is the go-to guy for great deals on flights, accommodations, and other typically big-ticket expenditures. For instance, his numerous posts on travel credit cards can be a game-changer for sojourners looking to save money. He also offers solid advice on eSIMS, for folks who want to use their phones while abroad without breaking the bank.
Travel Influencer: Melody Pittman
Sure, she’s got down-home appeal, but Melody Pittman—the belle behind WhereverIMayRoam—really gets around. She specializes in things to do and see below the Mason-Dixon Line, often hitting the road with her daughter, Taylor Hardy, to inspire fun, wholesome adventures that are also bonding experiences.
Read more: What I Learned on a Joyous Roadtrip With My Adult Daughter
Travel Influencer: Keith Taillon
Nobody loves New York like Keith Taillon! After losing his fashion industry job during the pandemic, Keith spent his downtime walking—and posting about—every single street in Manhattan. He gained such a following for his fascinating perspective on the city (the guy does have a history degree), he parlayed it into his website Keith York City, a great guidebook, and feature articles in the Times of London and (duh!) The New Yorker. Keith also takes folks around the Big Apple on foot, having recently finished leading his 400th tour.
Travel Influencer: Yaya and Lloyd
If you aim to see the world and leave a small footprint, check in with Yaya and Lloyd of Hand Luggage Only. They’re a handsome couple for whom hand luggage isn’t just a clever handle but a way of life. On their website and to their 1.2 million TikTok followers, they share their experiences while showing others how to travel in a responsible, sustainable way. For instance, in partnership with outdoor gear brand Osprey, they took a ten-day journey to Iceland toting only one carry-on each.
If you’re into sustainable, eco-friendly travel, Hand Luggage Only is a best bet.
Travel Influencer: Alex Reynolds
Okay, this one might be solely for armchair adventuring. Alex Reynolds is a young American biker/backpacker who posts as Lost With Purpose. Her writing is at turns beautifully descriptive and just plain funny, and she offers money-saving tips about grubby hotels and eating (just) bread for breakfast. After continent-hopping solo (taking buses, trains, rickshaws, and other modes of transportation in addition to her own hand-painted bike), she began leading women-only motorcycle tours through Pakistan. Vroom-vroom!
Travel Influencer: David Lebovitz
Paris, anyone? If so, you’ll fall for expat pastry chef (13 years at Chez Panisse!) and best-selling cookbook author David Lebovitz, who has made the City of Light his home—and his mission. His goal is to share “sweet and savory recipes that are doable for home cooks, along with Paris travel tips and humorous stories about life in France” through his website, podcasts, newsletter, and Instagram presence. He’s been featured in cuisine magazines including Bon Appétit, Food and Wine, and Cook’s Illustrated, as well as in Travel and Leisure, The New York Times, and People.
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