Intro
Okay, you want to travel around the U.S. in 2025, but the internet’s basically a jungle of “hidden gems” and “must-see” lists that all sound the same. Where do you even start? Honestly, travel blogs are still clutch. They’re loaded with real stories, weird mishaps, and hacks you don’t get from some corporate guidebook. Plus, let’s face it, travel’s gotten pricier—flights shot up 12% since last year? Wild. So, you need advice from people who actually, you know, travel.
(By the way, 68% of Americans are planning U.S. trips this year, so you’re not alone. Shoutout to Travelzoo for making me feel like I’m not the only one with a suitcase permanently half-packed.)
Why Bother with U.S. Travel Blogs in 2025?
Look, travel blogs aren’t just a bunch of pretty pictures—though, yes, some of these folks make national parks look like Instagram heaven. They’re about what’s actually doable. People like The Points Guy literally teach you how to make your credit card pay for your next flight. That’s not just helpful, that’s wizardry. Someone on X even said Nomadic Matt’s tips saved them $200 on a road trip. I mean, who doesn’t want that? And, let’s be real, half the reason I read these is because I want to avoid planning headaches and find out if that “hidden speakeasy” is actually worth it.
Top 10 U.S. Travel Blogs You’ll Actually Want to Read in 2025
- Nomadic Matt
Matt Kepnes is basically the king of budget travel. “How to Travel the U.S. on $50 a Day”? Yeah, I’ve tried some of those hacks. They work. If you’re broke (or just cheap like me), this is your Bible.
- Why bother: Super detailed city guides, actual budgeting advice, not just “eat street food.”
- Must-read: His road trip itineraries.
- Go here: Nomadic Matt or Budget Travel Tips
- The Points Guy
Brian Kelly’s site is all about squeezing free flights and hotel nights out of your credit card points. The kind of guy who’d probably get a free upgrade just by smiling.
- Why bother: If you don’t want to pay for airfare ever again.
- Must-read: The loyalty program breakdowns.
- Go here: The Points Guy or Travelzoo
- The Blonde Abroad
Kiersten Rich is all about solo female travel, but honestly, her guides are great for anyone who wants less bro-energy and more “here’s how not to get lost.”
- Why bother: Epic photos, super practical solo travel stuff.
- Must-read: California coast road trip.
- Go here: The Blonde Abroad or Solo Travel Hacks
- Expert Vagabond
Matthew Karsten is the guy who’ll convince you to climb a mountain just for the view. His U.S. park content is next-level—I’m talking Zion, Yosemite, all the hits.
- Why bother: Action-packed outdoor itineraries, gear reviews written by someone who has actually gotten their socks wet.
- Must-read: U.S. hiking trails guide.
- Go here: Expert Vagabond or REI
- Y Travel Blog
Caz and Craig Makepeace have kids and still travel. If they can pull it off, so can you. Their U.S. guides for families are top-tier.
- Why bother: Real advice for dragging your kids to national parks without losing your mind.
- Must-read: Smoky Mountains with kids.
- Go here: Y Travel Blog or Family Travel Tips
- Wander With Alex
Alexandrea Sumuel’s blog is for people who can only get a long weekend off and need to make it count. Charleston, Savannah, all those quick-but-awesome trips.
- Why bother: Short, punchy guides. No fluff.
- Must-read: Southern U.S. weekends.
- Go here: Wander With Alex or Expedia
- The World Travel Guy
David Leiter goes deep on U.S. national parks and, like, actually finds the stuff you’d otherwise miss. Killer photos, too.
- Why bother: Hidden gems, lots of hiking inspo.
- Must-read: Lesser-known parks.
- Go here: The World Travel Guy or NPS.gov
- Adventurous Kate
Kate McCulley is the OG solo female travel blogger. Think safety tips, city guides, and a dash of sass.
- Why bother: Makes solo travel in places like New Orleans seem way less intimidating.
- Must-read: Solo in NOLA.
- Go here: Adventurous Kate or Booking.com
- We Seek Travel
Olly Gaspar is that friend who’s always off-grid doing something wild. His U.S. adventure guides are legit—Utah, Colorado, you name it.
- Why bother: Deep-dive adventure itineraries. Also, amazing photos.
- Must-read: Backpacking U.S. trails.
- Go here: We Seek Travel or Vrbo
- TravelFoss
If you’re tired of the same old tourist traps, TravelFoss is all about weird festivals and local stuff you’d never find on your own.
- Why bother: Unique events, small-town vibes.
- Must-read: U.S. cultural festivals.
- Go here: TravelFoss or Eventbrite
How to Pick the Right U.S. Travel Blog for You
Don’t just read what everyone else is reading. If you’re broke, stick with Nomadic Matt or The Points Guy. Want to drag your family cross-country? Y Travel Blog’s your jam. Adventure junkie? Try Expert Vagabond or We Seek Travel. Solo and a little nervous? The Blonde Abroad and Adventurous Kate are solid picks. Only got a weekend? Wander With Alex has your back.
You get the idea. Find the vibe that matches yours, and dive in. Your next trip will thank you.
