Condé Nast Traveler Review: Travel magazine worth reading?

Travel magazines may not offer you every piece of important detail about a destination like travel guide books. But, they spark your wanderlust with their creatively worded, beautifully photographed content. 

Before the internet, we fed our passion for travel through magazines. Nowadays, with the emerging online travel content and blogs, travel magazines are declining. Thankfully, they haven't gone extinct yet. 

Condé Nast Traveler is a magazine famed for featuring unique attractions, local food, and expert travel advice! It has expanded its presence over the years, and today, it is also one of the best travel guide websites. With both physical travel magazines and online travel content, CN Traveler has made itself known as the go-to blog for travel inspiration.

But is it a helpful resource for backpackers? Does CN Traveler promote and publish authentic destinations that all travelers have access to? We'll get to that. But first, what is CN Traveler?

What is Condé Nast Traveler ?

Launched in 1987, CN Traveler or Condé Nast Traveler is a luxury and lifestyle travel magazine. It was first issued to the U.S market and extended worldwide with nine international editions. The majority of readers are aged 25 and above. 

In addition to releasing a magazine in print and digital form, CN Traveler also marks its presence by publishing travel news and content on its website, social media platforms, podcasts, and email newsletters. It has a team of expert travelers contributing original, insider, and exciting travel stories. 

However, if you have a great story, you can pitch them for publication!

Condé Nast Traveler app is available for both Android and iOS devices, so you can access the magazine's digital version on the go. 

What type of content does CN Traveler offer?

CN Traveler's content is based on its motto, "Truth in Travel." It is targeted toward luxury, sophisticated, independent travelers looking for a mix of adventure and comfort. 

You will find content under five sections on the website; Inspiration, Destinations, Places to Stay, Style & Culture, and Food & Drink. Besides inspirational content, CN Traveler also updates you with the latest travel news. You will also find articles on travel tips, gift ideas, and the latest travel accessories/gadgets. If you want to book a travel service or purchase a good mentioned in its articles, click the link to the particular website and make your reservation/purchase. 

CN Traveler publishes three prominent lists annually. It's actually a collection of lists under the 3 categories. The Reader's Choice List is compiled based on readers' votes. CN Traveler's Hot List includes the best new and noteworthy places published in the previous year. The third collection is the Gold List, a compilation of the favorites of the editorial board. 

How do I subscribe to CN Traveler magazine?

For U.S customers, CN Traveler magazine is available for a starting price of $10 for a year and $15 for two years. The subscription will allow print and digital versions and an instantly downloadable Hot List. You will also get a complimentary tote bag. After the initial payment, your subscription will be renewed at $21.99 per year. 

The subscription rate varies for each country. You can also subscribe to CN Traveler's email newsletter free of charge to receive the latest updates and travel stories. 

How do I cancel my CN Traveler subscription?

Your subscription will be automatically renewed once you have added a payment method. But, CN Traveler allows you to cancel anytime and will provide a refund if you have paid in advance. 

If you're looking for a refund, contact customer support via the hotline or email.

What we liked about Condé Nast Traveler

• Quality content 

You can count on CN Traveler's articles to be well-researched, factual, and in most cases, timely. It's an excellent place to learn about lesser-known destinations, authentic cuisine, top-rated accommodation, etc. 

CN Traveler has won many magazine awards over the years and is one of the most reputed brands, with over 5 million readers subscribed for its print editions. The credibility of its content is well known.

• Travel tips 

The 'Travel Tips' section in the drop-down menu features timely travels updates and advice. You can find the latest coronavirus-related restrictions, bans, and regulations pertaining to different countries here. It's super useful at present when countries continuously revise their travel rules. In addition, the section also includes content on travel beauty tips, travel gear, cheap flight booking methods, etc. Also, check out the 'On the Move' section for great gift ideas.

• Resourceful

Although CN Traveler mainly goes as a luxury travel magazine, its content extends beyond its monthly editions. There's a lot of content on its website that you can browse for free and gain inspiration for your next trip. 

Social media posts, podcasts, videos, competitions, and events provide a comprehensive, omnichannel user experience. They are very informative and provide excellent background information. Their stunning images, storytelling narrative, and captivating videos are really a feast for the eyes. Their content is the ultimate source of travel inspiration!

What CN Traveler can do better 

• Customer service

During our research of CN Traveler, we noticed several negative reviews about CN Traveler's unresponsive and delayed customer support. The assistance to resolve magazine subscription-related issues had been poorly received.

• Trip planning 

There's no trip planning service offered by CN Traveler yet, and it would be a great addition! Users can form their own itinerary based on the destinations, accommodation, and travel services they encounter on the website/magazine. 

If you are looking for a flexible and free travel planner that provides you with authentic travel content, try Pilot!

Is CN Traveler useful for backpackers?

While CN Traveler does focus on budget travel topics, it primarily serves mid to high-end travelers looking for luxurious experiences. Therefore, the travel services it recommends are pricier too, and even the subscription to read the magazine is quite expensive. 

So, it won't serve much in helping backpackers looking for budget-friendly rentals or local eateries.

Is Condé Nast Traveler Worth It?

I think CN Traveler is one of the best travel guide websites to remain updated about the latest travel stories and read inspiring content. But, should you subscribe to its magazines? It depends on your travel preferences. For backpackers and budget travelers, its offering is limited and would mismatch what type of content CN Traveler offers. 

Our Rating: 4.5/5

Pros 

• Quality content 
• Travel tips 
• Resourceful 

Cons 

• Customer service 
• No trip planning feature
  

Find Travel inspiration and plan your trip!

While Condé Nast Traveler is unique and excellent in what they do, there are limitations. Especially for budget travelers and digital nomads, CN Traveler offerings tend to be on the pricer end, providing more luxurious style travel than a budget-conscious but exciting adventure.

Not to mention, CN Traveler lacks the tools that actually help you plan trips. Speaking of a travel resource that also allows you to plan your trips, have you heard of Pilot?