The Best Books for Nomadic Souls

Reading on the road is one of the best ways to relax while still diving into adventure. We’ve hand-selected several books that will turn your rainy days in the RV into an adventure without having to step out the door. Even if you’re not a big reader, these books will grab you by the heartstrings and give you a reason to keep on trekking down the road.

Here are several books you can pick up to keep the adventure alive while you’re inside!

NomadLand by Jessica Bruder
Jessica Bruder gets up close and personal with her subjects for her book NomadLand. This book dives deep into the those who have hit the road to make a living in order to survive. Although many see van life or RVing as a privilege, some know that they are unable to make a living if they live a more traditional way of life. Their home is their RV or trailer and they’ve found creative ways to make money that allows them to stay afloat. This book reveals a lot about America and the way life is for some individuals who consider themselves nomads.

To Shake the Sleeping Self by Jedidiah Jenkins
Jedidiah Jenkins takes you on his bicycling trip from Portland, Oregon, to Patagonia, Chile. Born with a storyteller’s voice, Jenkins gives you everything you wish you heard when you were in your 20’s in a way that any reader, young or old, can relate. From carrying emotional and physical baggage on a bike over 2,000 miles, Jenkins learns more about the motives behind others as well as himself. This book, though it dives deep into his life, gives you just enough adventure and introspection to make you feel like you need a “ride of a lifetime” to figure this grand life out.

Related Read: Online Learning Tips for Studious Travelers

Excuses to Excursions by Gloria Anatamo
Gloria Anatamo never fails to write candid, hilarious anecdotes that also motivate you to get out and adventure. Gloria went from $5 in her bank account to world traveler and branded content creator in just a few years, but she doesn’t let you forget that she had to fight for it. This book covers all the how-to’s and what-not-to-do’s when you’re trying to get paid for doing the things you love. You’ll laugh, empathize, and dance your way through this short, essay version book. But you’ll take a lot of lessons home with you, too, that will allow you to find your true calling and chase after it.

Because It Is So Beautiful by Robert Leonard Reid
Robert Reid is quite the adventurer. Although much older now, this book takes you back to his days of romping and roving over various terrains. You’ll learn about the environment, U.S. history, and wildlife in essays that make you laugh, cry, and wonder. Reid has a way of talking about these topics (and more!) with candor and charm, while leaving you with your own thoughts and actions. Not everyone may see the world as Reid does, but his writing makes the heart long for action, adventure, and experiences.

Tales of a Female Nomad by Rita Golden Gelman
A true story based on Gelman’s life takes you through her adventures as a 48 year old with nothing but the world in front of her. This books takes you from the time she divorces her husband and leaves a life of luxury behind in LA to her experiences as she travels all over the world. She sleeps with sea lions on the Galapagos Islands, spends time in Mexican villages, and meets women from all over the world along the way. For a book filled with adventure from start to finish, pick up Tales of a Female Nomad!

Related Read: Best Podcasts to Listen to on the Road

Over the Edge: Death in Grand Canyon by Michael P. Ghiglieri and Thomas M. Myers
Love a good book about tragedy in the wilderness? Pick up this book to learn about the stories and lessons behind deaths in one of America’s most famous National Parks. This book touches on everything from small scorpions causing deaths to falling over the edge. You’ll hear about all 550 deaths that have occurred in the park (up until the book was published in 2001) and have several new ways to stay safe in the outdoors. If you want more books like this about other National Parks, there are several written that can be found on Amazon or at your local bookstore.

The Alchemist by Paul Coelho
One of the world’s most classic books is this one right here. The Alchemist is a tale about a shepherd boy on a quest into the unknown for treasure. This journey leads him to find out more about the world and its people while giving the reader the essentials they need to live their lives and follow their dreams. If you’re a fan of fiction novels that make you feel like you’re on the journey with the main character, this is a great book to pick up!

Vagabonding by Rolf Potts
For a book about long-term travel that takes you into the life of someone who saw it all over a 10 year period, this is your best bet. Rolf Potts has been called “The Godfather of Vagabonding” because he spent a decade on the road finding himself and adventure. This book includes practical information to save you from overspending and overextending yourself while giving you the inspiration and motivation you need to hit the road if you haven’t already. This book is one that the travel community holds dear to the heart and you’ll know why once you pick it up yourself.

Adventure Inside.
Bringing the adventure into the RV is never a bad idea. We can’t always be outside or on the road, so taking time to relax with a good read is an excellent way of staying motivated and happy along your journey. Adventure is out there, as long as you do your best to find it. And you’ll find it in the middle of a book!