19 Gorgeous Travel-Inspired DIY Projects

When I’m not travelling, one of the things that keeps me sane is surrounding myself with travel inspiration in all forms, whether it’s obsessively reading blogs or adding worldly touches to my home decor (like this stupidly adorable savings bank shaped like a suitcase).

And so, in the spirit of treating roamsickness with more travel dreams (probably a terrible idea but idk I’m not a doctor), here’s a roundup of some of the most beautiful and wickedly awesome travel-related DIY projects that I could scour on the interwebs. 

Pin these ideas for later:

1. Dazzling light-up world map

Through an absolutely genius use of Christmas lights, this beautiful map by Hazel and Ruby showcases where you’ve been in the world and is brilliantly customizable and simple to create. Bonus points for their lovely travel-themed display, and sweet globe collection.

2. DIY Vintage Pushpin Map

This simple and tasteful way to showcase your wanderlust is absolutely perfect. I am in love with DIY Vintage Pushpin Map from Mountain Modern Life because it’s minimalist enough to avoid tackiness, while still showing off your love of travel and all the places you’ve been. I can’t wait to put one of these up on my wall!

3. Personalized photo map

This adorable photo map from Adventurista AZ is so cute, it almost makes me want to vomit!  Seriously, can you handle the nauseating sweetness? Admittedly, this is a genius idea that I wish I had come up with first, but this one’s no doubt going on my (ahem *secret*) travel-themed wedding Pinterest board

4. Miniature map magnets

These mini map magnets from Surviving a Teacher’s Salary are not just adorable, but also rather classy (like a posh chihuahua having high tea). They can be made in just a few minutes, so they’re ideal for a quick and easy gift for that travel lover in your life.

 

5. … and more map magnets

For a simple and clean alternative, these other glass map magnets from The Happy Housie are a brilliant way to subtly incorporate your wanderlust all around the house.

 

5. Travel Keepsake Boxes

Minimalist and simple, these keepsake boxes from Martha Stewart are a smart way to keep all those random knick knacks and ticket stubs organized from each trip! Plus they look absolutely smashing on a shelf.

 

6. Map keychain

A cute everyday reminder of a place you love! An easy tutorial can be found here on Sustain My Craft Habit.

 

7. Pocket travel journal

This crafty DIY travel journal from Simple as That is the perfect way to keep track of travel memories on the go. Plus you can easily make it your own through different photos, paper patterns and fonts. Need some inspiration? I’m obsessed with this beautiful travel-themed scrapbook paper from K&Company. Imagine all these prints in a journal! *swoon*

 

8. Travel-themed gallery wall

Surround yourself with precious travel memories by turning them into clean and gorgeous wall art. I love this example and tutorial from Live Laugh Rowe. 

If you want an instantly fancy look without all the work, this gold foil Wanderlust print is to die for… and it even comes in silver.

 

9. Travel shadow boxes

An arsty way to put your best photos, memories, stubs and more on display! This tutorial from Kelly Purkey shows you how to do it. Although I think the 20 euros in the corner here would be better spent on waffles.

PRO TIP: I’ve found that shadow boxes are always pricier at craft stores than online. Amazon has loads of affordable options. Click here to check them out!

READ MORE:
DIY Superhero Christmas Tree

 

10. Upcycled hand-painted globe

Such a great way to breathe new life into an outdated globe! Click here to see a tutorial from Houseologie on how it’s done. BTW if you’re like “but I don’t have a globe”, let me shun your excuses with this wide selection of globes for under $20 on Amazon. You’re welcome.

 

11. Map and travel shelf

A great way to jazz up any shelf, especially one that’s holding travel souvenirs. Here’s an easy how-to from Home Road.

 

12. Souvenir showcase jars

I love this creative method of putting photos and souvenirs on display, especially for beach vacations. Here’s how you make them.

The snazzy sealable mason jars are easy to find too! You can easily get them in any size on Amazon. Click here to see the options.

 

 

13. Wooden travel map

Another great way to keep track of your travels. I love the cozy, wooden look and the hand-painted lettering. Here’s how you can make your own. 

 

14. Mason Jar Map Ornament

This gorgeous Christmas ornament idea is the perfect way to upcycle some maps and mason jars! Check out this easy to follow tutorial via Happy Mothering for a step by step on how to make them:

 

15. Easy DIY Passport Holder

Looking to make your own passport holder to keep your most beloved possession nice and safe? It’s actually not that complicated. This tutorial comes with a free sewing pattern that you can easily customize to suit your needs!

 

 

16. Suitcase table

To be honest, if I had this adorable coffee table in my house I would probably never leave. Here’s how you make your own.

 

17. Postcard Recipe Box Dividers

A wonderful way to make use of the postcards you collect! These beautiful postcard recipe box dividers are seriously adorable, and a perfect way to preserve your best travel memories.

 

18. Map heart art

Simple yet so cute. Would be a cool idea to showcase your favourite parts of the world. Here’s House of Mahalo’s tutorial showing how you can have your own in a few minutes.

All you need is a map, some glue, and a cheap white frame (here’s a nice one off of Amazon).

19. Travel cord organizer

As someone who has spent probably hours over her lifetime untangling cords, this brilliant DIY is a must for those constantly on the go. Here’s a tutorial on how to make one of these organizers for yourself, courtesy of Create and Craft.

If you’re still with me (and not already reaching for that Mod Podge and glue gun), thanks for reading!

Let me know in the comments if I’ve missed any of your awesome DIY travel-related projects. I’m always on the hunt for more to add on my list!


Fishing for more travel decor inspiration?

Click here for 16 ridiculously beautiful travel prints from Etsy.

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