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9 travel films that will give you wanderlust

If you’re feeling the itch to travel, take a look at some of these movies for inspiration. No matter where you’re looking to go, you’re sure to find a movie to inspire your trip.

Into the Wild

Take me to: Alaska, USA

Why we love it: There’s something idealistic in this real-life story of law school graduate Christopher McCandless. This tale hits on what travel should be – an opportunity for new and life-changing experiences, be they good or bad. As Christopher heads to the Alaska wilderness he finds himself on a spiritual journey of self-discovery. We wish we had the guts to pack our life savings and travel through the wilderness…but we like our beds, too. Alaska would be nice for a visit, though.

The Darjeeling Limited

Take me to: India

Why we love it: Travelling with family can be tough – especially if you’re going to India, while in a deep depression, to see your estranged mother, with the brothers you haven’t talked to in a year. This beautifully-shot film reaffirms our love for India and all of its amazing sights. The brothers’ hilarious and zany antics make us want to find some ‘Strangers’ and make our way to India by ‘This Time Tomorrow’ (and by that we mean the soundtrack is amazing).

The Endless Summer

Take me to: Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Tahiti and Hawaii, USA

Why we love it: No Australian travel movie list would be complete without one amazing surfing flick. The waves, the people, the fun: We. Want. It. All. Bruce Brown’s most beloved surfing documentary, The Endless Summer follows two young surfers around the world in search of the perfect wave. If you are in perpetual search for the perfect wave like us, this is a must-see film.

Crocodile Dundee

Take me to: New York City

Why we love it: Looking to become a modern-day wonder from Down Under? Get a (1986) view of the Big Apple and imagine your life in another land.

…and even if you aren’t looking to travel, make this movie a priority. It’s kind of a classic, ya know?

The Motorcycle Diaries

Take me to: Peru, Argentina and Venezuela

Why we love it: Another film based on a true story, The Motorcycle Diaries charts the trip that changed revolutionary Che Guevara’s life. See the natural wonders of Peru and the awe-inspiring views of Argentina that will make you want to hope on a bike and go. Lovers of Latino music and dance (aren’t we all), this movie also has a soundtrack that will fill the samba and merengue void you didn’t know was missing from your life.

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

Take me to: New Zealand

Why we love it: Looking to indulge in a little fantasy? We hope you have about nine hours. If you don’t already know the plot, just think magic, old-world wars, and an unhealthy obsession with jewellery. While New Zealand is basically one big shire, it also offers the Lord of the Rings Walking Tour, a great attraction for cinephiles and lovers of whimsical grass-covered houses alike.

The Iceman Cometh

Take me to: China

Why we love it: While this might not be the most accurate depiction of modern-day China, it does feature some of China’s amazing scenery. Bonus: you probably won’t be able to find this movie anywhere in China, as the Chinese government recently banned time-travel films.

Encounters at the End of the World

Take me to: Antarctica

Why we love it: For the really adventurous travellers out there who may be thinking of taking a boat cruise to Antarctica, Encounters at the End of the World is the ultimate documentary. Film-maker Werner Herzog travels to the McMurdo Station in Antarctica and captures the indescribably beauty of this mysterious continent. You will want to pack your parka (or, more realistically, begin your online search for a parka … because, like, you have never even considered buying a park before this very moment) and see some penguins.

Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome

Take me out of: Australia

Why we love it: If this film doesn’t make you want to leave Australia, we don’t know what will. Get out before the apocalyptic dystopian future takes hold and bike gangs terrorise the land! (Okay, that probably won’t happen – any time soon – but it is a great movie and we wanted to get it in to our list anyway.) Let it be a lesson to you, though: being trapped in Australia can turn deadly – travel so you’ll have the skills to fight off Mel Gibson, should the situation ever arise.

Didn’t see a movie you think should have made the list? Reply to our Tweet with your favourite travel movies:

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