Sometimes a two-hour movie isn’t enough to capture the depth of a journey. TV series offer the chance to dive deeper, exploring cultures, challenges, and the evolution of a lifestyle over many hours. Whether you need inspiration, a good laugh, or practical ideas for your own setup, these shows are perfect companions for life on the road.
Here are 7 essential TV series that resonate with the spirit of travel, freedom, and unconventional living.
1. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (2013–2018)
- IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
- The Vibe: The gold standard of travel television. Anthony Bourdain explores the culture and politics of destinations through their food. It’s a masterclass in curiosity, empathy, and looking beyond the tourist trail to find the true heart of a place. Essential viewing for any world traveler.
- Where to Watch: Max (formerly HBO Max), rent on Apple TV or Prime Video.
- IMDb Profile: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2845786/
2. The Long Way Series (Round, Down, Up) (2004–2020)
- IMDb Rating: ~8.5/10 (all are highly rated)
- The Vibe: Follow actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman on epic, continent-spanning motorcycle adventures. From London to New York, Scotland to South Africa, and Argentina to Los Angeles, this is the ultimate documentation of overland travel, friendship, and extreme problem-solving.
- Where to Watch: Apple TV+
- IMDb Profile: The Long Way Round (2004)
3. Down to Earth with Zac Efron (2020– )
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
- The Vibe: A surprisingly insightful and positive series where Zac Efron travels the world with wellness expert Darin Olien to find healthy, sustainable ways to live. It’s perfect for the eco-conscious nomad, covering topics from renewable energy to longevity and communal living.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- IMDb Profile: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12389626/
4. Somebody Feed Phil (2018– )
- IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
- The Vibe: Pure, infectious joy. Phil Rosenthal (creator of Everybody Loves Raymond) travels the globe eating everything he can. His genuine enthusiasm for food, people, and new experiences is guaranteed to make you smile and add a dozen new cities to your “must-visit” list.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- IMDb Profile: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7744302/
5. An Idiot Abroad (2010–2012)
- IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
- The Vibe: What happens when you send someone who hates travel to see the wonders of the world? This hilarious series follows Karl Pilkington as his friends Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant send him on uncomfortable and unforgettable journeys. It’s a funny reminder that travel isn’t always glamorous.
- Where to Watch: Rent on Apple TV or Prime Video. Availability is limited by region.
- IMDb Profile: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1702042/
6. Tiny House Nation (2014–2019)
- IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
- The Vibe: A practical look at the challenges and rewards of downsizing. Renovation experts travel across America designing and building miniature homes for families looking to live a simpler, more nomadic life. It’s full of clever design ideas for anyone living in a small space, be it a van or a studio apartment.
- Where to Watch: Netflix, A&E app.
- IMDb Profile: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3931352/
7. Travels with My Father (2017–2021)
IMDb Profile: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7371510/
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
The Vibe: Comedian Jack Whitehall takes his very proper and traditional father, Michael, on a series of adventurous trips through Southeast Asia, Europe, and America. The clash of personalities and generations makes for a hilarious and surprisingly heartwarming travelogue.
Where to Watch: Netflix
