The joy of travel often comes from curiosity, and the right reading material can fuel that wanderlust from your armchair or packed suitcase. Independent magazines particularly excel at delivering immersive storytelling, vivid photography, and thoughtful curation. They invite readers to experience landscapes, cultures, food scenes, and adventures beyond mainstream tourist routes.
These publications feel like personal letters from the road, each page designed to transport you. Whether you’re planning your next getaway or indulging your love for exploration at home, these magazines will captivate your imagination. Interested in discovering standout titles? We’ve asked Magalleria to hone in on just six. Here they are…
Lodestars Anthology – Journeys in Depth
Focusing on a single country per issue, this beautifully crafted annual publication offers a deep dive into geography, culture, architecture, food, and photography. With around 18 issues available, each one paints an immersive picture of its chosen destination. Lodestars Anthology distinguishes itself through meticulous research and visually rich content, perfect for travelers craving an intimate, authentic exploration of global cultures. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, each issue becomes a collector’s item that readers return to time and again.
Holiday – A Classic Reimagined
Originally a mid‑20th‑century American publication featuring writing from the likes of Graham Greene and Joan Didion, this relaunched magazine now presents chic, dreamy travel features.
Each issue of Holiday focuses on one city or region, blending cultural commentary with stunning editorial photography. Its stylish yet thoughtful approach makes Holiday ideal for travelers who seek refined experiences, beautifully curated stories, and sophisticated imagery. This revival publication maintains its historic charm while offering fresh perspectives tailored to contemporary explorers.
Read: 5 ideas for bringing your favourite travel destinations into your garden this year
American Trails – Americana Through Swedish Lenses
This magazine showcases US travel through a Nordic perspective. Instead of standard travel features, readers get stories about cowboys, diners, Cadillacs, drugstore nostalgia, and roadside landscapes. American Trails surprises and delights readers with its unconventional viewpoint, celebrating the quirks and charm of American culture through the eyes of international observers. It’s perfect for those looking to discover familiar places anew or gain unexpected insights into American life.
Cartography – Large-Format Journeys
Published in Italy, Cartography combines documentary-style photography with immersive writing, focusing on both remote and popular destinations. Big‑format spreads showcase places like the Galapagos, Ethiopia, Milan, and New York. Each issue delivers soulful storytelling from people in place, not just tourists. The captivating imagery, accompanied by deeply human narratives, appeals strongly to visual readers seeking to immerse themselves in the essence of each destination. Cartography creates lasting impressions by capturing genuine moments of connection and discovery.
Sidetracked – Adventure at the Edges
From mountaineering to wild expeditions, Sidetracked dives into extreme adventure travel with gripping narratives and breathtaking visuals. Launched from a website in 2011 and selected by The Guardian as a standout independent title, it’s a favorite among readers who chase adrenaline and unique perspectives on expedition life. Sidetracked celebrates human endurance and the pursuit of the extraordinary, inspiring readers to seek adventures that push personal boundaries and broaden horizons.
LOST – A Cross-Cultural Odyssey
Published in English and Mandarin from Shanghai, LOST is an immersive magazine exploring self-discovery through travel. With a focus on slow, soulful journeys and authentic encounters across cultures, it offers premium design and curated storytelling. It’s been praised for invigorating the travel genre with thoughtful insight. Readers who appreciate introspective travel and meaningful cultural exchanges will find LOST an enlightening companion, encouraging deeper understanding and reflection.
Perhaps with all those magazines in your suitcase, you need some advice on how to travel light next? You know what to do…
