5 Must Read Non-Travel Books to Help You Travel

As someone who is constantly seeking to learn and expand my thinking horizons, I am an avid non-fiction reader. Here are a few of my favourites, which have also helped to pave the way (financially, practically, and personally) for my more recent travels:

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The Barefoot Investor – Scott Pape

Basically, an Australian cult book, Pape’s straight forward guide to managing your finances will help you to pay off debt, save, and secure for your future whilst still enjoying all the many things that you love. An old work colleague of mine suggested that I read this book a few years ago. I remember denial Jess politely smiling and nodding but acknowledging deep down that I would not follow up. Fast forward a year later with my head still buried in the sand, I decided to pick up a copy of The Barefoot Investor and have never looked back. I absorbed the book in one day and since then (about 9 months), have managed to pay off around $5,000 in debt, live comfortably (0 coffee abstinence), travel Europe for 4 weeks, and spent a week between The Blue Mountains and Sydney over New Year’s.

The Life Changing Art of Decluttering – Marie Kondo

You have most likely seen Kondo’s work broadcasted across various memes, social media channels, and even more recently Netflix. Despite the hype, Marie Kondo’s book is actually a must-read for anyone interested in simplifying their mindset and lifestyle through decluttering. This book helped me to rid myself of years’ worth of literal and metaphorical baggage, plus making extra travel cash through selling unwanted / unused belongings.

Into the Wild – John Krauker

“Into The Wild” is a masterpiece for all adventure spirits and seekers out there. The book chronicles the makings of Christopher McCandles as he ventures out on an amateur solo wilderness expedition through Alaska. In this book, Krauker takes you on a visual journey through McCandles’ nature rich travels and incredibly philosophical views of the world. But, at the end of the day, this book will help you to reflect on the beauty of nature and adventure in balance with the importance of human connection.

The Meaning of Things – A.C. Grayling

Written by modern day philosopher and author, A.C. Grayling’s “The Meaning of Things” is a compilation of short essays, which aims to stimulate reflection on otherwise trivial life topics. This book will help you to develop new perspectives on things like love, hate, and compassion. I found that this book has given me a greater understanding of human behaviours, which has helped me to better deal with adverse situations (as it often happens with travelling). The short and quick to read essays make this book a perfect paper companion.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck – Mark Manson

Mark Manson’s book is a must-read for all you fellow people pleasers out there. This book feels like a breath of fresh air to read combined with unfading wit and humour. A main theme of this book is not so much “how to care less about everything” but rather “where/what/who can I best place my efforts”. As an easy to guilt over-thinker, this resonates with me SO MUCH, particularly in travels and day to day life. When travelling, this book will help you to feel less obliged to do the things that you don’t want to do, and feel less guilty for doing more of the things that you want to do.

I hope that you enjoyed these book recommendations and if you have read any of them, I would love to hear your feedback below.

Jess xx