18 Ways to Decorate With Maps, Globes and Suitcases

Show off your love of travel and adventure with these global-inspired decorating ideas and DIY projects.

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December 28, 2015

By: Keri Sanders

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Photo By: Susan Teare ©Susan Teare

Photo By: Photography by Killy Scheer

Photo By: Domestic Imperfection

Photo By: Susan Teare

Photo By: Eric Perry

Photo By: Ben_Rollins

Photo By: Blue i Style

Your Cork-y Side

Show off all the places you've been plus all the places you're hoping to go with this bright corkboard world map. Get the instructions >>

From: Michelle Edgemont

All Mapped Out

Perfect for a travel-themed party or any time you want to pay homage to a favorite location, this cute map-embellished vase couldn't be an easier project. Get the instructions >>

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Going Global

Dark shelves lined with globes give this masculine library a definite sense of globe-trotting sophistication. Consider using globes in varying styles for a cool collected-over-time look.

Side of Style

One vintage suitcase plus four salvaged spindles equals one super cute side table with a story. Whether it's your old suitcase that's been everywhere with you or a new-to-you version you picked up at an antique store, this project is an easy way to give your home instant character.

Simple Substitute

If DIY isn't really your thing, consider simply placing a vintage suitcase on top of a chair or stool for all the style with none of the power tools.

Travel Bug

Bring decoupage back into your DIY arsenal with this adorable kids' chair update. Adhering colorful paper maps to plain white chairs is a simple way to give your little ones a taste of the great big world. Get the instructions >>

World-Class Wrapping Job

Is your friend planning a trip to Europe? Does your niece have dreams of road-tripping across the country? This cute wrapping paper idea is the perfect way to indulge their wanderlust.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Center(piece) of the Earth

Vibrant and colorful, this eclectic red dining room mixes in a collection of globes with different heights and sizes for an unexpected school-house style.

Ruff Air Ahead

It looks like we have a stowaway on our hands. You may not be able to pack him in your suitcase, but you can still give man's best friend a comfy spot to lay his head. This upcycled suitcase is just the ticket. Get the instructions >>

A Different Route

You can't go wrong when hanging a colorful map, but to put a fresh spin on a classic look, try segmenting the map and framing each part before displaying it on the wall. Get the instructions >>

Texas-Size Frame

If classic maps are more your style, try creating your own frame for a perfectly-customized look. This large map of Texas looks amazing when paired with a handmade frame consisting of inexpensive cedar fencing. Visit Domestic Imperfection for the full instructions.

What a View

You can transform a plain backsplash with recycled maps for an unexpected and inexpensive way to see the world (even while doing the dishes).

Destination Decor

Give your child a taste for adventure with a bedroom designed to ignite their passion for travel. A well-worn map hangs on the wall, while a globe on the dresser will have them picking out their dream destinations.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Rest Your Case

This project looks amazing with a vintage suitcase, but an old army trunk would also be a great choice. Hairpin legs give the entire look a designer quality, while the size of the suitcase makes for the perfect coffee table.

Locale Scene

This DIY is so easy, you'll be adding maps to everything in the house. Simply wrap a glass votive with a map cut to size. Then secure the map with a bit of glue. But since you are using paper, be sure to only use battery-operated candles in these cuties.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Wander Wall

Designer Clay Snider uncovers every corner of the earth with this unique display for an eclectic game room. Globes attached to the wall add drama to the space, and the 3D effect makes for an exceptionally-fun design.

Destination Dining

A cheaper alternative to cloth placemats, these smart map placemats will have dinner guests dreaming of their perfect getaway. Time to plan some group vacations!

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Handmade Travel Map Ornaments

“Long ago, I had an idea that I'd like to collect a Christmas ornament from each country that I visit, but that turned out to be harder than I expected,” says Angela Neese Rathbun of Blue i Style. So instead, she decided to create her own ornaments with maps to commemorate each of her travel destinations. “My number one priority was to make the ornaments simple enough that it will be quick and easy to add more over the years as we check more cities and countries off of our travel bucket list,” Rathbun says.

18 Ways to Decorate With Maps, Globes and Suitcases

Related To:

Shop This Look

Your Cork-y Side

All Mapped Out

Going Global

Side of Style

Simple Substitute

Travel Bug

World-Class Wrapping Job

Center(piece) of the Earth

Ruff Air Ahead

A Different Route

Texas-Size Frame

What a View

Destination Decor

Rest Your Case

Locale Scene

Wander Wall

Destination Dining

Handmade Travel Map Ornaments

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