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100+ Best Road Trip songs (to sing along with as you drive!)

Looking for good road trip songs? Honestly, the right driving songs in the right playlist can make or break a road trip! Here are 100+ best road trip songs to sing along with as you drive!

And don’t forget to download your FREE road trip planner below , to help you plan your road trip.

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Best Road Trip Songs

Planning a road trip or long drive is tough. There are a million things to think about. And one of the things often overlooked is a road trip playlist!

Whether you’re travelling by car, RV, camper or bike, this list of the 100 best road trip driving songs is guaranteed to make the miles fly past!

We’ve got a mix of great driving songs to sing along too: songs for girly summer road trips, classic rock, all-American, a bit of country and some modern 2020 tunes- all designed to create the PERFECT playlist for your journey. And with over 100 road trip songs to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find something for everyone to sing along with on the road.

Make planning your next road trip EASY (& fun!)

When you’re planning a road trip, keeping track & organising all your ideas is often the hardest part. Fix that TODAY with our printable pdf road trip planner. Grab yours FREE now

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How to create a great road trip playlist with sing-along songs!

The window wound down, the stereo cranked up and some awesome tunes you can sing along to; perfection, right? But if you’re anything like us, your phone/iPod is a random mix of all sorts of music- including a Christmas album or 7.

That’s why a road trip playlist is so important- you don’t have to worry if the next tune will be great, you already know it will be! 

• Make sure the songs are downloaded onto your phone/ ipod. Otherwise, you’re going to use up a lot of data and/ or run the risk of being in an area with bad signal and no music!
• Like listening to things as you drive? Check out Audible – you can get podcasts, audiobooks and more- it’s a perfect way to pass the time on a long drive.

You might be able to get 3 MONTHS FREE music at Amazon. Click HERE to take advantage 

I’ll be honest- there was some…. let’s call it “discussion”… over the best travel songs to include on this list. My husband prefers classic rock for driving songs. I like songs you can sing along with in the car and songs to drive fast too (NEVER above the speed limit though… right?!)

We compromised on creating a road trip playlist with song choices from all of us, so we hope there’s something in here for you!

So, let’s get to the best road trip songs.

(Update: This post started off as 100 of the best road trip songs… it’s growing as we add more in, so no idea how many are here now!! )

20 Rock Classics- the BEST Road trip Rock songs

• Danger Zone – Kenny Loggins
• Nutbush City Limits – Ike & Tina Turner
• Dude Looks like a Lady – Aerosmith
• American Pie – Don Mclean
• Whole Lotta Rosie – AC/ DC
• Don’t Stop Believing – Journey
• Paradise City – Guns N’ Roses
• All Night Long – Rainbow
• Cats in the Cradle – Ugly Kid Joe
• Here I Go Again – Whitesnake
• Jump – Van Halen
• We Built This City – Starship
• Summer of ’69 – Bryan Adams
• Hell ain’t a Bad Place to Be – AC/DC
• The Boys are Back in Town – Thin Lizzy
• Rio – Duran Duran
• Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting – Elton John
• Who are You – The Who
• Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac
• Love Walked In – Thunder

Best Driving Songs- All-American road trip songs

• Born in the USA – Bruce Springsteen
• Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
• Walk This Way – Aerosmith & Run DMC
• My Life – Billy Joel
• Living on a Prayer – Bon Jovi
• Footloose – Kenny Loggins
• One of these Nights – The Eagles
• Born to be Wild – Steppenwolf
• Nothing but a Good Time-  Poison

Planning a road trip? You might find these posts useful:

• How to plan a road trip
• The BEST printable road trip planner (FREE!)
• Most useful road trip apps
• 100 inspiring road trip quotes

25 Modern road trip songs to sing along with (2020 update)

Our favourite modern (ish!) driving songs, all of which are perfect to sing along to in the car and belt it out- especially in a traffic jam with people staring at you!! Add any (or all!) of these to your perfect summer road trip playlist.

• Physical- Dua Lipa
• Stupid Love – Lady Gaga
• Dance Monkey – Tones & I (you know you love it…)
• Take Me Back to London – Ed Sheeran
• All the Good Girls go to Hell – Billie Eilish
• What a Man Gotta Do – Jonas Brothers
• Castle on the Hill – Ed Sheeran
• Uptown Funk – Mark Robson & Bruno Mars
• Rockstar – Nickelback
• Looking for a Good Time – Lady Antebellum
• It’s My Life – Bon Jovi
• Take me to Church – Hozier
• Hold Back the River – James Bay
• Shut Up & Dance – Walk the Moon
• Happy – Pharell Williams
• The Pretender – Foo Fighters
• Hall of Fame – The Script
• Centuries – Fall Out Boy
• Sex on Fire – Kings of Leon
• The Kill – 30 Seconds to Mars
• Mr Brightside – The Killers
• My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark – Fall Out Boy
• Don’t Threaten Me with a Good Time – Panic at the Disco
• Knights of Cydonia – Muse
• If I had you – Adam Lambert
• All the Small Things – Blink 182

The ultimate girl’s road trip playlist- perfect songs to sing along with in the car!

Ah- I LOVE girly road trips, especially in the summer. There’s nothing better than some sunshine, good friends and some GREAT songs on the stereo. Here are some of our favourite road trip songs for girls (although we don’t mind if you boys listen to them too! 😉 )

20 Modern road trip sing-along songs for girls

• Rolling in the Deep – Adele
• Waking Up in Vegas – Katy Perry
• Trouble – Pink
• Everytime We Touch – Cascada
• According to You – Orianthi
• Bang Bang – Jessie J, Ariana Grande & Nicki Menaj
• Black Magic – Little Mix
• Heartbeat Song – Kelly Clarkson
• Sax – Fleur East
• Can’t Be Tame d- Miley Cyrus
• Fight Song – Rachel Platten
• The Best Damn Thing – Avril Lavigne
• Call Me Maybe – Carly Rae Jepsen
• U and Ur Hand – Pink!
• Part of Me – Katy Perry
• Shake it Off – Taylor Swift
• This is Me – Greatest Showman Soundtrack
• Raise Your Glass – Pink
• Living la Vida Loca – Ricky Martin
• Baby one more time – Brittany Spears

20 Classic road trip songs for girls to sing along to in the car!

• Walking on Sunshine – Katrina & the Waves
• Bitch – Meredith Brooks
• Everything I do, I do it for you – Bryan Adams
• Holding Out for a Hero – Bonnie Tyler
• Wake Me up before you Go-Go – Wham
• It’s Raining Men – Weather Girls
• Love Shack – B52s
• I’m so Excited – Pointer Sisters
• Dancing in the Moonlight – Toploader
• 9 to 5 – Dolly Parton
• Uptown Girl – Billy Joel
• Heaven is a Place on Earth – Belinda Carlisle
• Man! I Feel like a woman – Shania Twain
• Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper
• Poker Face – Lady Gaga
• Burning Love – Wynonna (I much prefer this version- sorry Elvis!!)
• Love My Life – Robbie Williams
• Torn – Natalie Imbruglia
• Proud Mary – Tina Turner
• Summer Nights- Grease

14 Driving Songs with ‘road in the title’- perfect for a road trip playlist!

• Hit the Road Jack – Ray Charles
• Every Day is a Winding Road – Sheryl Crow
• Take me Home, Country Roads – John Denver
• The Long and Winding Road – The Beatles
• Bright Side of the Road – Van Morrison
• Long Road To Ruin – Foo Fighters
• Road Trippin’ – Red Hot Chilli Peppers
• Back on the Road Again – REO Speedwagon
• Thunder Road – Bruce Springsteen
• Road to Hell – Chris Rea
• Road to Nowhere – Talking Heads
• Old Town Road – Lil Nas X
• Roadhouse Blues – The Doors
• Road Less Traveled – Lauren Alaina

15 best songs about driving and cars

Some of the best songs about driving (and cars!) – all perfect for a road trip playlist!

• Mustang Sally – The Commitments
• Bat out of Hell – Meatloaf
• I Drove all night – Roy Orbison
• Rhythm Made Me Do It – Shania Twain
• Drive By – Train
• Greased Lightnin’ – Grease Soundtrack
• Paradise by the Dashboard Light – Meatloaf
• Bad Habit – The Offspring
• Car Wash – Rose Royce
• 2,4,6,8 Motorway – Tom Robinson Band
• Little Red Corvette – Prince
• Pink Cadillac – Bruce Springsteen
• Route 66 – Chuck Berry
• Drive – The Cars
• Drive My Car – The Beatles

Planning a long drive? These post might help

• 15 Essential road trip tips you NEED to know
• Things to remember before you leave
• Healthy snacks for road trips

Best Driving songs to drive faster to (and sing along with!!)

Yes, we’ve already had some AMAZING road trip songs for the playlist, but here are some more to crank it up and sing along with (just watch that speed limit!!)

• Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen
• Monkey Wrench – Foo Fighters
• Eye of the Tiger – Survivor
• Beat It – Michael Jackson
• 50 Ways to say Goodbye – Train
• River Deep, Mountain High – Tina Turner
• Cherry Pie – Warrant
• I would do anything for love – Meatloaf
• Addicted to Love – Robert Palmer
• Pour Some Sugar on Me – Def Leppard (one of the best songs about sugar ever 😉 )
• Any Way you Want it – Journey (or the Rock of Ages version!)
• DOA – Foo Fighters
• Lowlife – Theory of a Deadman
• Making it Hard – Hinder
• Oblivion – Terrorvision
• Haven’t Had Enough – Marianas Trench
• Angel with a Shotgun – The Cab
• Silent Majority – Nickelback
• Run to You – Bryan Adams
• Thanks for the Mmrs – Fall Out Boy
• The Anthem – Good Charlotte
• Teenagers – My Chemical Romance
• High School Never Ends – Bowling for Soup
• Seven Nation Army – White Stripes
• Kung Fu Fighting – Carl Douglas
• Build Me up Buttercup – The Foundations
• Johnny B Goode – Chuck Berry
• Come As You Are – Nirvana
• Teenage Dirtbag – Wheatus

20 Quieter Road trip songs- for when the kids are sleeping!

These songs are perfect when you want to turn it down a little bit. Admittedly, we tend to turn them up, but then we don’t have young kids anymore!

(Top tip for parents- these children’s car games won’t drive you crazy. Promise!)

• Livin’ Thing – Electric Light Orchestra
• All I Need is a Miracle – Mike and the Mechanics
• Everybody wants to Rule the World – Tears for Fears
• Money for Nothing – Dire Straits
• In the Air Tonight – Phil Collins  (just remember to air drum quietly!!)
• I don’t want a lover – Texas
• The Chain – Fleetwood Mac
• The Gambler – Kenny Rogers
• Stay with Me – Rod Stewart
• All Night Long- Lionel Richie
• No Son of Mine – Genesis
• Easy Lover – Phil Collins & Philip Bailey
• Every Little Thing She Does – The Police
• It’s a Beautiful Day – Michael Buble
• Jesus, He knows me – Genesis
• The Day We Caught the Train – Ocean Colour Scene
• All Right Now – Free
• Another Brick in the Wall – Pink Floyd
• Mama Told Me not to Come – Tom Jones
• Boys of Summer – Don Henley

Classic road trip driving songs for EVERY trip

These are some of our favourite driving tunes- but they didn’t really fit anywhere else (or they did, but my OCD with the numbers wouldn’t allow it!) Still, don’t forget to put these onto your ultimate driving playlist!!

• Africa – Toto
• Waterloo – Abba
• Like I Roll – Black Stone Cherry
• Sharp Dressed Man – ZZ Top
• I Love Rock n Roll – Joan Jet
• Counting Stars – OneRepublic
• Song 2 – Blur
• Only The Good Die Young – Billy Joel
• Dreadlock Holiday – 10cc
• Englishman in New York – Sting
• Stacy’s Mom – Bowling for Soup or Fountains of Wayne
• The Power of Love – Huey Lewis and The News
• One of Us – Joan Osborne
• Won’t Get Fooled Again – The Who
• When the Going gets tough – Billy Ocean
• I Can’t Dance – Genesis
• Losing My Religion – R.E.M
• We Are Family – Sister Sledge
• Video Killed the Radiostar – The Buggles
• Hit Me with your Best Shot – Pat Benatar
• I Got You (I Feel Good) – James Brown
• Graceland – Paul Simon
• Since You Been Gone – Rainbow
• Total Eclipse of the Heart – Bonnie Tyler
• Are You Gonna Go My Way – Lenny Kravitz
• I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – U2

Spotify Link for this road trip playlist

If you’d like to download this playlist on Spotify, you can do so here.

And if you found it helpful and like our playlist, feel free to buy us a coffee 😉

Best Road Trip Songs- how did you like our Playlist?

Every single one of these songs makes us turn the volume up and sing along like crazy people- much to the amusement of anyone around us!

These are driving songs to embarrass yourselves to and enjoy every second.  I hope it’s given you some great ideas for your own road trip playlist- let me know what you include on yours!!

How else can I help you today?

• Record your trip in one of these beautiful road trip logbooks
• How to plan an epic RV trip for beginners
• The BEST gifts for road trippers
• Essential road trip kit
• Best Children’s car Games

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Sharing is caring!

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15 comments.

Wow that is a great list. You have a few I had forgotten. Very complete list of all music genre. That is the only problem I have with things like Sirrus and XM you have to select only one type. I love Pandora but as you mentioned DATA, DATA, so Ipod it is for roadtrips.

Thank you! We had a lot of fun writing it and listening to old songs 🙂 Yeah, Data is definitely something worth considering- it can get expensive quickly otherwise!

You missed out poison alive Cooper got to be on

thanks for the information

You’re welcome!

What an awesome song list. Thanks for sharing this list. take care…

You are very welcome- glad you enjoyed it. Happy Road trip!

Great lists. I made playlists on Spotify that can be accessed by anybody. Makes it easy if you have Spotify.

How do I access the playlist that you made

Rockin’ down the highway by The Doobie Brothers

Is there a way to automatically click a link or something so my Apple Music will automatically take and start playing the 150 song list

Wow. Now I have something to do while waiting for lockdown to end. I’ve never heard of some of yours! You won’t have heard of some of mine! Each to his own. I will start with Stones, Clapton, John Mayalls Bluesbreakers, Sonny Boy Williams……….Can’t stop, I’ve got to get my iPod.?

This is a really lovely list. I would also recommend Dead American Presidents’ Peaches for trips through farm country.

I miss the golden Earring with Radar love.

Can’t believe you don’t have and Go-Go’s songs listed!! I can think of a few that are awesome road trip songs !!

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100 Best Road Trip Songs: Epic Road Trip Playlist You Need to Download

What are the 100 best road trip songs? That’s a good question. Let the truth be told, no road trip is ever complete without epic tunes to sing along too. Some of my fondest road trip memories consist of singing at the top of my lungs with my best pals beside me. I distinctly remember cruising down the motorway, with my window down, and the sun beaming in, singing ‘Oops I did it again’ as we approach Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway . Or, on my US coast to coast road , jumping out of our van every moment we got to have a dance off in the middle of the street (all safety precautions taken into consideration of course). These are memories that will last a lifetime and it is all thanks to my epic road trip playlist!

Today, I would like to make life a little bit easier for you. Instead of you having to spend hours on end adding songs to your own personal playlist. I have done all the hard work for you. Below is a list of some of the best songs for a road trip, I have even gone as far as providing you with a Spotify link so you can have access to all these killer songs with the touch of a button. I know, I know, you’re looking at a way to thank me, feel free to do so by sharing this post on pinterest 😉

100 Best Road Trip Songs

• American Pie – Don McLean
• A Thousand Miles -Vanessa Carlton
• Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
• Don’t Stop – Believin’ – Journey
• Party in the U.S.A – Miley Cyrus
• All Star – Smash Mouth
• I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – The Proclaimers
• Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison
• Stacey’s Mom – Fountains Of Wayne
• Eye of The Tiger – Survivor
• Ice Ice Baby – Vanilla Ice
• Drops of Jupiter – Train
• Take Me Home, Country Roads – John Denver
• All The Small Things – Blink-182
• Teenage Dirtbag – Wheatus
• I Love Rock ’n’ Roll – The Black Jets
• Hey Jude – The Beatles
• Don’t You Want Me – The Human League
• Cotton Eyed Joe – Circus DJ’s
• Hey There Delilah – Plain White T’s
• S8er Boi – Avril Lavigne
• Take On Me – a-ha
• Build Me Up Buttercup – The Foundations
• Walking On Sunshine – Katrina & The Waves
• Bye Bye Bye – NSYNC
• Before He Cheats – Carrie Underwood
• Since U Been Gone – Kelly Clarkson
• Bad Day – Daniel Potter
• Some Nights – Fun
• It’s A Beautiful Day – Michael Buble
• My Girl – My Temptations
• Shake It – Metro Station
• I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
• Roxanne – The Police
• Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper
• Happy Together – The Turtles
• I’m a Believer – The Monkees
• Somewhere Only We Know – Keane
• Soul Man – Sam & James
• You Make My Dreams – Daryl Hall & John Oates
• Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go – Wham
• Come On Eileen – Dexys Mightnight Runners
• Mambo No.5 (a Little Bit of…) – Lou Bega
• Don’t Go Breaking My Hearth – Elton John and Kiki Dee
• I Want It That Way – Backstreet Boys
• Uptown Girl – Billy Joel
• Hey Ya! – Outcast
• You Make My Dreams Come True – The South Street Band
• Soul Man – Live Version
• Stayin’ Alive – Bee Gees
• Wannabe – Spice Girls
• Everytime We Touch – Cascada
• Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
• I Love Rock and Roll – John Foster
• Toxic – Britney Spears
• We Built This City – Starship
• Mamma Mia – ABBA
• I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston
• Twist and Shout – The Beatles
• Year 3000 – Jonas Brothers
• Fireflies – Owl City
• Tik Tok – Kesha
• Any Way You Want – Journey
• Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen
• Hotel California – Eagles
• What I Like About You – AC/DC
• Hit Me With Your Best Shot – Pat Benatar
• Don’ Worry Be Happy – Bobby McFerrin
• Sweet Dream (Are Made of This) – Eurythmics
• Respect – Aretha Franklin
• The Final Countdown – Europe
• Superstition – Stevie Wonder
• Stand By Me – Ben E. King
• Three Little Birds – Bob Marley and The Wailer
• You Sexy Thing – Hot Chocolate
• Billie Jean – Michael Jackson
• Born in the U.S.A – Bruce Springsteen
• Stuck In The Middle With You – Stealers Wheel
• Hound Dog – Elvis Presley
• Do You Believe in Magic? – The LOvin’ Spoonful
• It’s Tricky – Run – D.M.C
• All Summer Long – Kids Rock
• Life Is A Highway – Tom Cochrane
• Every Breath You Take – The Police
• I’ll Be There For You – The Rembrandts
• Down Under – Men At Work
• Walk This Way – Aerosmith
• Man! I Feel Like A Woman – Shania Twain
• Who Let The Dogs Out – Baha Men
• American Girl – Tom Petty and The Hearthbreakers
• U Can’t Touch This – MC Hammer
• American Idiot – Green Day
• The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air – AC/DC
• It Wasn’t Me – Shaggy
• Hips Don’t Lie – Shakira and Wyclef Jean
• Burnin’ Up – Jonas Brother
• Oops!..I Did It Again
• There She Goes – The La’s
• Call Me Maybe – Carly Rae Jepsen
• Yellow – Coldplay
• Mr. Brightside – The Killers

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101 Road Trip Songs to Play on Your Next Drive

• From top movie picks to celebrity scoops and travel advice, Brittany writes on a wide range of topics for The Knot.
• While Brittany is a contributing writer for The Knot Worldwide, she also provides shopping content for publications like BuzzFeed, CTV and The National Post.
• Brittany has a Bachelor of Arts in media and communications studies, along with minors in creative writing, theater studies and music performance. ...

There's nothing quite like a thrilling adventure behind the wheel, and no journey is complete without the best road trip songs to accompany you on your ride. Whether you're planning a solo expedition, a road trip honeymoon or a fun-filled outing with the bach party crew, the right driving music playlist can transform your lengthy car rides into unforgettable experiences.

From powerful rock anthems that'll have you cranking up the volume to mellow acoustic tunes that set the mood for scenic drives, our editors have curated a list of 101 road trip songs that are so good, they might as well be considered road trip essentials . With the wind in your hair, the sun on the horizon and road trip music on the speakers, you're bound for a memorable adventure. Sit back, fasten your seatbelts, and feel the beat with these road trip songs.

In this article:

The Knot's Top 10 Road Trip Songs

Road trip songs about driving, classic road trip songs, singalong road trip songs, country road trip songs, summer road trip songs, groovy road trip songs, road trip playlist names.

From funky beats to cinematic electro-pop, here are the absolute best road trip songs curated by our editors.

"Road Trippin'" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers

Here's a mellow, acoustic track by the Red Hot Chili Peppers that captures the essence of wanderlust and the open road, making it an essential tune for any road trip playlist.

"Pull Up To The Bumper," Grace Jones

This sultry groove may not be talking about a car's bumper per se, but it's an iconic disco classic that is perfect for staying energized on late drives.

"California Dreamin'" by The Mamas & the Papas

This timeless anthem beautifully expresses the longing for warmth and sunshine, making it an evergreen song choice for dreamy road trip escapes.

"I Wish," Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder's "I Wish" is a funky masterpiece that's impossible not to groove along with while driving to an exciting destination.

"Mr. Brightside," The Killers

As a chart-topping indie-rock hit, "Mr. Brightside" by The Killers is the perfect blend of nostalgia and catchy energy, making it a must-play track for car sing-a-long sessions.

"You Go Down Smooth," Lake Street Dive

When it comes to songs for the road trip of your dreams, look no further than Lake Street Dive's "You Go Down Smooth." With Rachael Price's mesmerizing vocals, this soulful song was made for winding down on a moonlit journey.

"Nightcall," Lovefoxxx, Kavinsky

Fans of the 2011 film Drive will instantly recognize this cinematic electro-pop track. It's a must-play on late night drives through vibrant cityscapes.

"Could Heaven Ever Be Like This," Idris Muhammad

With its hypnotic groove and a unique blend of jazz and disco elements, this iconic track by Idris Muhammad belongs on every list of road trip songs.

"Son of a Preacher Man," Dusty Springfield

Jam-packed with soul and charm, this classic song is ideal for a breezy cruise down memory lane.

"Coming Home," Leon Bridges

This heartfelt tune is a great companion for the long drive home after an epic road trip adventure.

With lyrics and melodies that amplify the joy of hitting the open road, these road trip songs about driving also serve as powerful metaphors for life's journey. They're perfect driving songs, but many of them will resonate beyond the literal act of hitting the road, too.

"Fast Car," Tracy Chapman

"Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman is a heartstring-tugging ballad that paints the picture of chasing freedom down the open road — a relatable journey for anyone who loves getting the heck out of Dodge when push comes to shove.

"Keep Driving," Harry Styles

In this Harry Styles road trip song, the lyrics "should we just keep driving?" serve as a metaphorical invitation to persevere through life's chaos, no matter how absurd or challenging it may become.

"Life Is a Highway," Tom Cochrane

This electrifying anthem cranks up the volume on the joys of life as a never-ending highway, making it an absolute must-have for your road trip playlist.

"No Particular Place to Go," Chuck Berry

This rock 'n' roll hit by Chuck Berry is a total blast, capturing the thrill of cruising around with your sweetheart, with no particular place to go.

"I Can't Drive 55," Sammy Hagar

Here's a high-energy rock song that rebels against speed limits and embodies the need for speed — but please, don't take these lyrics literally!

"Drive My Car," The Beatles

Who can resist grooving to The Beatles' "Drive My Car"? It's a pop-rock classic that's practically woven into our musical DNA. With its clever lyrics, it turns the whole idea of driving into a wild ride of ambition and success

"Running on Empty," Jackson Browne

Hit play on "Running on Empty" by Jackson Browne when you're in a nostalgic and reflective mood.

"King of the Road," Roger Miller

"King of the Road" by Roger Miller is a foot-tapping country classic that embraces the carefree simplicity of life on the open road, where the journey is the real treasure.

"Highway to Hell," AC/DC

AC/DC's "Highway to Hell" is an electrifying rock anthem that'll have you revving up for your road trip and the wild ride of life.

"I Drove All Night," Cyndi Lauper

Buckle up for an 80s track that'll whisk you away on a nostalgia-fueled journey. This one's a love song that uses driving as a metaphor for the extraordinary lengths someone will go to be with their special someone.

"Six Days on the Road," Dave Dudley

In "Six Days on the Road" by Dave Dudley, you can practically smell the diesel fumes and taste the trucker's coffee as he sings about life on the asphalt, making you want to hit the road for a cross-country road trip.

"Brand New Cadillac," The Clash

This musical joyride by The Clash features roaring guitars and frenetic beats that'll make you feel like you're speeding down the highway in a vintage muscle car.

"Cruisin'" by Smokey Robinson

Smokey Robinson's "Cruisin'" is the ultimate serenade to the special someone sitting in your passenger seat, inviting you to take a musical journey where love and the open road merge in perfect harmony.

"Truckin'" by the Grateful Dead

"Truckin'" by the Grateful Dead is the ultimate road trip anthem, a groovy tune that'll have you nodding along to its rhythm while dreaming of endless adventures on the highway.

"Riding in My Car," Elizabeth Mitchell

If you're going on a road trip with kids, this delightful song about driving will make all of you want to roll down the windows and sing along with a carefree heart.

Get your party started

"mustang sally," wilson pickett.

This is the kind of song that'll make you want to hit the gas pedal and let your inner wild child take the wheel, with a chorus so catchy you'll be humming it long after the ride's over.

"Boyfriend's Car," Colour Me Wednesday

With its upbeat melody and cheeky lyrics, "Boyfriend's Car" by Colour Me Wednesday will make you want to grab the car keys and hit the road with your best pals.

"Get in My Car," BRONCHO

With lyrics like "I like to go fast, I like to go far, won't you open that door? Get in my car," this catchy song by BRONCHO is a fab pick for adventure seekers and dreamers alike. You'll love its catchy beat and unique vocals.

"Road to Nowhere," Talking Heads

Lyrically, "Road to Nowhere" reflects a sense of journey and searching for meaning in life. It uses driving and the open road as a metaphor for life's uncertain and often directionless path.

From Willie Nelson's "On the Road Again" to "Lovely Day" by Bill Withers, these timeless classics are quintessential driving songs for any road trip adventure.

"On the Road Again," Willie Nelson

With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, this country hit has become an anthem for travelers and adventurers, resonating with anyone who's ever felt the call of the highway and the excitement of a new journey.

"Life in the Fast Lane," Eagles

"Life in the Fast Lane" by the Eagles is a rock masterpiece known for its driving rhythm and vivid lyrics that capture the allure and perils of a fast-paced, high-octane lifestyle.

"Take Me Home, Country Roads," John Denver

Here's a beloved folk classic that evokes a sense of nostalgia and the longing for the familiar, making it an essential song for those returning to their roots.

"You're So Vain," Carly Simon

Everyone will be singing along to this sassy, upbeat song by Carly Simon. It'll help to turn those lengthy hours behind the wheel into a fun and memorable road trip experience.

"Wild World," Cat Stevens

This ballad speaks to the bittersweet farewells and reflections often encountered during a road trip, offering a great soundtrack for those moments of contemplation.

"Rich Girl," Daryl Hall & John Oates

Daryl Hall & John Oates' "Rich Girl" is a groovy, feel-good tune that infuses a sense of carefree luxury and adventure into your journey, making it perfect for the road.

"Highwayman," The Highwaymen, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash

This epic country ballad that weaves together tales of life, death, and reincarnation along the roadways, creating an emotionally resonant narrative for your travels.

"Wild Horses," The Rolling Stones

"Wild Horses" is the kind of song that'll add depth and emotion to your journey, inviting reflection and a deeper connection with the landscape, the people you're with and the places you're heading.

"The Long and Winding Road," The Beatles

Here's a classic ballad by The Beatles that'll take you through the scenic landscapes of life, reminding you that even the most twisty-turny journeys can lead to beautiful destinations.

"Riders on the Storm," The Doors

With haunting melodies and Jim Morrison's evocative vocals, this is one of the best road trip songs for cruising along rain-soaked highways, conjuring a cinematic journey into the unknown.

"Easy," Commodores

The Commodores' "Easy" is a smooth and soulful road trip anthem, providing a laid-back groove that matches the leisurely pace of a scenic drive.

"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey

This iconic road trip song is pretty much synonymous with the enduring spirit of adventure. Its memorable chorus and anthemic sound make it an uplifting and powerful addition to any road trip playlist.

"Rearviewmirror," Pearl Jam

This driving song by Pearl Jam is a great song for shaking off the past and hitting the gas on life's highway, leaving regrets in the dust. With Eddie Vedder's emotive vocals, it's the ultimate anthem for forward momentum.

"Lovely Day," Bill Withers

"Lovely Day" by Bill Withers is a classic song known for its uplifting and feel-good vibe, making it a go-to track for brightening any lengthy drive.

Characterized by catchy melodies, easy-to-remember lyrics and an irresistible urge to belt out the words, these singalong road trip songs belong on your driving music playlist.

"Dancing in the Moonlight," King Harvest

With its infectious and carefree melody, "Dancing in the Moonlight" by King Harvest is perfect for late-night drives, where passengers can't help but sing along to the feel-good lyrics.

"Like a Rolling Stone," Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone" offers a timeless anthem for soul-searching road trips, with its poetic lyrics and memorable melody that invites passionate singing from all passengers.

"Hey Jude," The Beatles

A singalong standard, "Hey Jude" by The Beatles is tailor-made for group road trips, with its unforgettable "na-na-na-na" chorus that's impossible not to join in on.

"September," Earth, Wind & Fire

This high-energy, funk-infused hit that will have everyone in the car grooving and harmonizing to its infectious melodies.

"My Girl," The Temptations

A soulful gem, "My Girl" by The Temptations is an absolute must-sing during any road trip, with its heartwarming lyrics and soothing harmonies.

"You Make My Dreams Come True," Daryl Hall & John Oates

This upbeat pop classic is an instant mood-lifter, making it an ideal choice for a car full of enthusiastic passengers, ready to sing along to the fun, uplifting chorus.

"Stand by Me," Ben E. King

"Stand by Me" is a timeless ballad that brings people together with its comforting lyrics, making it a natural addition to your list of road trip songs.

"Jolene," Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton's "Jolene" offers a fabulous opportunity for passengers to show off their vocal skills while engaging with this iconic country hit.

"All Star," Smash Mouth

"All Star" is an upbeat and spirited tune that encourages animated singalongs, particularly for those who grew up watching Shrek.

"Bennie and the Jets," Elton John

Elton John's "Bennie and the Jets" combines a memorable melody with quirky lyrics, creating playful moments that are perfect for singing along on the road.

"Brown Eyed Girl," Van Morrison

With its feel-good lyrics and folk-rock melody, "Brown Eyed Girl" is an enduring singalong that'll bring warmth to any car ride.

"Eye of the Tiger," Survivor

This high-energy anthem is a favorite for group singalongs, especially when you need a motivational boost on the road.

"Tambourine Man," Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan's "Tambourine Man" combines poetic storytelling with a memorable melody, providing ample opportunities for passengers to harmonize and get lost in the music.

These country road trip songs are perfect companions for scenic drives, offering a soundtrack that resonates with the sights and sounds of driving out in the countryside and making your road trip one to remember.

"Wide Open Spaces," The Chicks

"Wide Open Spaces" is a country classic by The Chicks (formerly known as the Dixie Chicks), with lyrics that capture the feeling of setting out on the open road, making it an anthem for wanderers.

"Fast Cars and Freedom," Rascal Flatts

Rascal Flatts' "Fast Cars and Freedom" is an up-tempo country song that embodies the spirit of a carefree road trip, complete with a driving beat and lyrics about adventure.

"Wagon Wheel," Old Crow Medicine Show

Originally penned by Bob Dylan and later reimagined by Old Crow Medicine Show, "Wagon Wheel" is a beloved folk-country song that conjures images of a scenic journey on a dusty trail.

"I've Been Everywhere," Johnny Cash

This high-energy, tongue-twisting song lists an array of places, creating a sense of vicarious travel for the listener.

"Take a Back Road," Rodney Atkins

Rodney Atkins' "Take a Back Road" is a feel-good, country-rock tune that encourages taking the scenic route and embracing life's little detours.

"Drivin' My Life Away," Eddie Rabbitt

Here's an upbeat country track that captures the nomadic spirit of road tripping, with a chorus that's hard not to sing along with.

"Amarillo by Morning," George Strait

George Strait's "Amarillo by Morning" is a classic country ballad that paints a vivid picture of the open plains and the longing for home, making it an ideal song for a cross-country journey.

"I Walk the Line," Johnny Cash

A Johnny Cash classic, "I Walk the Line" conveys devotion and steadfastness, making it a song that resonates with travelers as they embark on their journey.

"Daytona Sand," Orville Peck

"Daytona Sand" by Orville Peck is a modern country song with a nostalgic sound that evokes a sense of wanderlust and the feeling of freedom on the road.

"Here You Come Again," Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton's "Here You Come Again" is a timeless country hit that conveys a sense of longing and anticipation, with Dolly singing about the return of a past love.

Whether it's a drive to the beach, a cross-country journey or simply cruising with the windows down, these summer road trip songs will set the soundtrack for sun-soaked moments on the road.

"Riptide," Vance Joy

Vance Joy's "Riptide" is a folk-pop song with an infectious melody and a carefree spirit, making it a perfect accompaniment for a summer drive along the coast.

"As It Was," Harry Styles

"As It Was" by Harry Styles is a sunny and laid-back track that embodies the nostalgia of summer, ideal for a leisurely road trip.

"I Follow Rivers," Lykke Li

Here's an upbeat indie-pop song with an adventurous spirit, evoking a sense of wanderlust and exploration.

"Alaska," Maggie Rogers

Maggie Rogers' "Alaska" is a fusion of folk and electronic elements, creating a unique sound fit for capturing the essence of a summer adventure.

"Summertime Sadness," Lana Del Rey

This melancholic yet captivating song captures the bittersweet feelings of summer's end, making it perfect for late August or September road trips.

"Cruisin' to the Parque," Durand Jones & The Indications, Y La Bamba

"Cruisin' to the Parque" is a soulful track with a groovy, retro vibe that sets the mood for a relaxed summer road trip.

"Texas Sun," Leon Bridges, Khruangbin

"Texas Sun" is a collaboration between Leon Bridges and Khruangbin, offering a fusion of soul and funk that pays homage to the Texan landscape, making it a fantastic choice for a Lone Star State adventure.

"Old Pine," Ben Howard

Evoking nostalgia and longing for the outdoors, this song by Ben Howard is the perfect driving music — especially if you're driving into the woods for an epic camping trip with your pals.

"Postcards From Italy," Beirut

Beirut's "Postcards From Italy" is a folk-infused song with a continental flair, evoking images of sun-drenched European road trips and Mediterranean coastlines.

"Home," Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

This joyful, folk-rock anthem radiates a sense of togetherness and nostalgia, making it ideal for shared road trip memories.

"Summer of '69," Bryan Adams

Bryan Adams' "Summer of '69" is a classic rock hit that brims with nostalgia, celebrating the memories of youthful summer adventures.

"Walking on Sunshine," Katrina and the Waves

An enduring pop song, "Walking on Sunshine" exudes a carefree, upbeat energy that makes sense for a summertime joyride.

"Eternal Summer," Strokes

This indie rock track might be one of the best road trip songs ever, capturing the hazy and timeless feeling of driving in the summertime.

"All Summer Long," Kid Rock

This song is the ultimate summer soundtrack, sampling two iconic rock songs: Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" and Warren Zevon's "Werewolves of London."

"Good Vibrations," The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys' "Good Vibrations" is a legendary surf-rock track that radiates sunny and beachy vibes, making it synonymous with the spirit of summer.

"Island in the Sun," Weezer

This feel-good, alt rock song that embodies the dream of finding an idyllic paradise, which is totally fitting for a dreamy summer road trip.

"How Long Do I Have to Wait for You?," Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings

With vintage vibes and a groovy, horn-laden melody, this soulful track by Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings will undoubtedly enhance your summer road trip playlist.

"Franklin's Tower," Grateful Dead

The Grateful Dead's "Franklin's Tower" is a jammy and bluesy track that embodies the free-spirited atmosphere of summer music festivals and road trips.

"Sugar Man," Rodriguez

Rodriguez's "Sugar Man" is a folk-rock song with an aura of mystery and adventure, a perfect fit for a road trip seeking the unknown.

"You And Me," Penny & The Quarters

This soul ballad by Penny & The Quarters sets a romantic and nostalgic tone for a summer road trip, filled with love and longing.

"Heavy California," Jungle

Jungle's "Heavy California" is an electrifying funk and soul-infused track that exudes energy and excitement, making it a top-notch summer road trip song choice.

"Cecilia," Simon & Garfunkel

Simon & Garfunkel's "Cecilia" is a beloved folk-rock song that captures the carefree essence of youth and summertime fun.

"Me and Julio Down by the School," Paul Simon

This Paul Simon song is an upbeat tune that celebrates youthful adventures, making it a great addition to your summer road trip music list.

With funky basslines, rhythmic guitar riffs and infectious melodies, these groovy road trip songs are perfect for making those long journeys more fun.

"Back Pocket," Vulfpeck

"Back Pocket" by Vulfpeck is a funk-infused track with a catchy, danceable groove and an infectious bassline, making it a great choice for a lively road trip playlist.

"Young Hearts Run Free," Candi Staton

Candi Staton's "Young Hearts Run Free" is a classic disco song with an upbeat tempo and lyrics that'll inspire a little car seat dancing.

"Long Way Home," Durand Jones & The Indications

This soulful, groovy track will set a mellow, yet rhythmic mood for your journey.

"Oh, Loretta," Sex on Toast

"Oh, Loretta" is a fun and funky tune by Sex on Toast, with a mix of soul and pop elements, with lyrics that'll add a hint of humor to your road trip music selection.

"You're Mine," The Funk Brothers

The Funk Brothers' "You're Mine" is a smooth and soulful track that embodies the classic Motown sound and infuses a groovy atmosphere into your adventure.

"Pusherman," Curtis Mayfield

This funk and soul masterpiece, known for its gritty rhythm and lyrics, is perfect for adding a touch of grit to your selection of road trip songs.

"Give Up The Funk," Parliament

"Give Up The Funk" by Parliament is a funky anthem with an irresistible beat and memorable hooks, igniting a lively vibe during your long journey.

"Le Freak," Chic

"Le Freak" is a disco classic by Chic, known for its catchy melody and danceable groove, making it an ideal choice to keep the good vibes flowing during your road trip.

"Last Dance," Donna Summer

Donna Summer's "Last Dance" is an energetic disco hit that encourages passengers to bob their heads and sing along, setting the stage for a memorable time on the road.

"You Haven't Done Nothin'," Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder's "You Haven't Done Nothin'" is a groovy track with a social message, mixing soul and funk elements to keep the journey's energy flowing.

"1612," Vulfpeck

This funky track has a playful rhythm with killer vocals that's sure to bring a smile to the faces of your fellow road trippers.

"Down in Mexico," The Coasters

The Coasters' "Down in Mexico" is a famous rhythm and blues track with a sultry and captivating groove you'll want to play more than once on your next road trip.

Whether you're cruising through scenic landscapes, embarking on an epic adventure or seeking the perfect soundtrack name for your journey, here are a few road trip playlist names to consider before putting together your next road trip music list.

• Highway Harmonies
• Cruisin' Classics
• Sun-Kissed Highway Jams
• Road Trippin'
• For the Open Road
• Driving Fast
• Golden Hour on the Road
• Summer Road Trip
• Coastal Cruisin'
• Backroad Beats
• Open Road Remixes
• Country Roads Collection
• Sizzlin' Summer Sounds
• Road Trip Mixtape
• Sunny Drives

The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist According to Travelers, Editors, and Spotify

This year has been nothing short of a whirlwind. As we wrap up the year, international travel is still a no go, and flying in general seems like a bit of a risky proposition. As a result, the humble road trip has roared back on our collective radar as many of us have been taking to the road as a way to get out of the house and explore our surroundings near and far. 

When we began discussing road trips on zoom calls and in Slack channels, the one thing that everyone could agree on was that music was essential. A good soundtrack can mean the difference between the hours flying by as fast as the scenery out the window or turning around before you reach your destination.

So what makes a great road trip playlist? It starts with the songs, but with so many incredible choices out there, it’s hard to whittle down to something that stands up to the test of time. However, we had an idea.

To make the perfect road trip playlist, we used three components. First, we looked at Spotify data to identify the most popular songs for driving, according to the top 100 road trip playlists. Next, we surveyed our TripSavvy readers to get their take. After that, our editors weighed in on their favorite songs. In the end, we were left with 29 carefully curated high-vibe songs that create the ultimate travel music of 2020.

Here are the top road trip songs. For the best listening experience, try playing them in order. Enjoy!

"Wake Me Up" by Avicii

Released in 2013, “Wake Me Up” made history by becoming the first song on Spotify to accumulate 200 million streams. This song can instantly put you in a good mood and that's why it's up first on our list.

"Night Moves" by Bob Seger

"Night Moves" is an easy-listening, American Rock classic. "Rolling Stone" magazine named it Single of the Year in 1977. This song is sure to get you in the right headspace for hitting the highway.

"Fly Like an Eagle" by Steve Miller Band

As suggested by one of our readers, "Fly Like an Eagle" was a must-have for this playlist. Even though this psychedelic-rock tune was released in 1976, it still feels relevant today.

Feed the babies Who don't have enough to eat Shoe the children With no shoes on their feet House the people Livin' in the street Oh, oh, there's a solution

"I Feel It Coming" by The Weeknd featuring Daft Punk

As suggested by one of our readers, "I Feel It Coming" is a sensual disco-pop song by The Weeknd and Daft Punk. When you play it, this catchy song will make you instinctively bob along as you're on the road.

"Cruise" by Florida Georgia Line

A song that appears on the Spotify list and was submitted by a reader is "Cruise" by Florida Georgia Line. This upbeat country song will make you wanna roll the windows down and cruise.

"Take It Easy" by the Eagles

After hours of driving, "Don't let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy," might be the best advice you'll get. Released in 1972, "Take It Easy" by the Eagles is still being played by road trippers, appearing 20 times across the top 100 playlists.

"Riptide" by Vance Joy

"Riptide," the 2013 single by Australian singer-songwriter Vance Joy, appears on 13 of the top 100 road trip Spotify playlists. This cheery folk song won the World Music Award for World’s Best Song.

"Old Town Road (Remix)" by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus

In 2019 Lil Nas X released "Old Town Road," a country rap remix with Billy Ray Cyrus. It won lots of awards, so it's no wonder that this was a top contender.

"Malibu" by Miley Cyrus

"This song reminds me of a road trip down the west coast from San Francisco to San Diego," says Megan Hartig, Content Marketing Manager. We booked our hotels on the fly with the app Hotel Tonight which was great for spontaneous travel."

"Life in the Fast Lane" by Eagles

You can't listen to "Life in the Fast Lane" without feeling like a badass. This song was on 13 of the top road trip playlists on Spotify. But don't lose your cool as this lyric points out: Life in the fast lane, Surely makes you lose your mind.

Listening to this song can give you a lead foot. Don't get a speeding ticket!

"Hey, Soul Sister" by Train

If you've never sung "Hey, Soul Sister" at the top of your lungs, have you ever been on a road trip? Not according to Spotify listeners. This song appeared 16 times according to Spotify data.

"September" by Earth, Wind & Fire

"I grew up listening to a lot of Earth, Wind & Fire with my parents during road trips," says associate editor Sherri Gardner. "'September' was one of my family’s favorites because it’s fun to sing along to, especially with the windows down."

"Burn The House Down" by AJR

Another great suggestion by one of our readers, "Burn The House Down" written by the pop trio consisting of three brothers, began as a 2018 song about U.S. political climate and became the theme song for the March for Our Lives campaign.

"Carry On Wayward Son" by Kansas

If you're struggling to hang in during your long drive, turn up "Carry On Wayward Son" a little louder for some encouragement. This progressive rock song performed by Kansas in 1976 took the band to the next level.

"Dancing In The Moonlight" by Jubël featuring NEIMY

"Dancing In The Moonlight" was named nine times in the top 100 Spotify road trip playlists. This 2018 feel-good pop cover is sure to lift your spirits with its upbeat rhythm, especially if you are driving after the sun goes down.

"Road Trip (2020 Version)" by Convent Bonfires

This song was suggested by one of our readers, and given the title, we had to include it. This obscure, indie-rock track released this year gives us all the good vibes.

"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey

With almost one billion streams on Spotify, it's no surprise "Don't Stop Believin'" cracks the top 3, with 24 appearances on Spotify's top road trip playlists. So next time you're in your car, turn up the volume and sing on and on and on and on.

"Circles" by Post Malone

Another song listed on the Spotify charts and our reader survey is "Circles" by Post Malone. This 2019 pop single won Song of the Year at the 2020 MTV Video Music Awards. It sat for a record 39 weeks in the Hot 100's top 10.

"Feel This Good" by Jackopierce

Another reader's choice, "Feel This Good" by musical duo Jackopierce is an easy listening song for the freeway.

Woke up this morning, rolled out of bed My favorite song's playing inside my head I go out on the freeway, windows down Don't know where I'm going, but it's good to move around and Days like this should never end

"Big Yellow Taxi" by Lennon & Maisy

Canadian sisters, Lennon and Maisy Stella, do a beautiful cover of the classic song "Big Yellow Taxi" originally sung by Joni Mitchell.

"Shotgun (The Wild Remix)" by George Ezra & The Wild

Whoever gets to ride shotgun is sure to enjoy this 2018 song by George Ezra featuring The Wild. "Shotgun" was listed on both the Spotify and readers' choice lists.

"Layla" by Eric Clapton

The acoustic rock song "Layla" was suggested by readers and found on six of the top Spotify road trip playlists. Hailed as one of the most iconic classic rock ballads of all time, there is no surprise it belongs here.

"Higher Love" by Kygo & Whitney Houston

This version of "Higher Love" produced by Norwegian DJ Kygo and the late Whitney Houston is a tropical, high-energy song that was number two on the Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart.

"Free Fallin'" by Tom Petty

"I grew up listening to Tom Petty (he was my first concert), and he's still one of my all-time favorite musicians," says senior editor Jamie Hergenrader. "Free Fallin' is worthy of a road trip playlist because it embodies the vibe of the trip—you're out on the open road, free to explore, and the lyrics even mention or hint at several classic L.A. routes, such as Ventura Boulevard, Highway 101, and Mulholland Drive."

"More Than a Feeling" by Boston

Is there a song that reminds you of your secret crush? Apparently someone in the band Boston had one, and that inspired their hit song "More Than a Feeling." Spotify users can relate. The song shows up on 22 road trip playlists, making it the fourth most popular on our Spotify list.

"Hello Darlin'" by Conway Twitty

“In the car, there’s nothing better than classic country," says Astrid Taran, senior audience editor. "There’s something about driving in the middle of nowhere blasting old school country.”

"Fast Car" by Jonas Blue & Dakota

"Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman was listed 10 times on Spotify's list, but we included a remix by Jonas Blue & Dakota to keep things fresh and upbeat to keep things interesting along the ride.

"Sun Models" by ODESZA featuring Madelyn Grant

"This song feels like the perfect soundtrack for a road trip and makes everything feel a little more epic," says visual editor Taylor McIntyre.

"Jack & Diane" by John Mellencamp

Last but certainly not least, here we have a classic rock ballad by John Mellencamp. "Jack & Diane" was released in the summer of 1982 and has been a go-to by road trippers ever sense, appearing 10 times in the Spotify road trip lists.

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• Aug 21, 2023
• 12 min read

600 Best Road Trip Songs (Our Road Trip Playlist)

Embarking on a road trip is more than just a journey from point A to point B; it's an adventure filled with scenic landscapes, spontaneous detours, and memories waiting to be made.

And what's a road trip without a killer playlist to match the changing horizons?

Whether you're driving down long highways, winding through the mountains, or cruising along the coast, the right music can elevate the experience to new heights.

We've compiled a colossal collection of 600 of the best road trip songs, carefully curated to keep you company as you chase sunsets and embrace the open road.

From classic rock anthems to contemporary pop hits, from indie tunes to country ballads, our road trip playlist is designed to cater to every musical taste, ensuring that every mile traveled is accompanied by the perfect musical backdrop.

Let's dive right in!

Our Road Trip Playlist

To listen to our collection of the best road trip songs, click here .

Or, read on to learn about some of the most classic road trip songs!

Reviewing 50 of the Best Road Trip Songs

Now, let's dive deeper into some of the best road trip music you can find in our hand-crafted playlist.

1. Life is a Highway by Rascal Flatts

"Life is a Highway" by Rascal Flatts kicks off our road trip playlist with a high-energy anthem. The upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics mirror the excitement of hitting the open road. As the chorus soars, it's hard not to feel a surge of adventure and freedom. This song sets the tone for a memorable journey ahead.

2. The Sweet Escape by Gwen Stefani & Akon

Gwen Stefani's "The Sweet Escape," featuring Akon, brings a pop-infused vibe to our road trip mix. The playful lyrics and infectious melody make it a perfect sing-along choice. As you cruise down the highway, this song's carefree atmosphere will have you escaping into the music.

3. Don't Stop The Music by Rihanna

Rihanna's "Don't Stop The Music" injects a dose of dancefloor energy into our playlist. The electronic beats and Rihanna's distinctive vocals create an irresistible groove. With its pulsating rhythm, this track encourages you to keep the music playing and the wheels turning.

4. Rocketeer by Far East Movement, Ryan Tedder & Ruff Loaderz

"Rocketeer" by Far East Movement, featuring Ryan Tedder, propels us into the stratosphere of road trip vibes. The fusion of electronic and pop elements gives the song an uplifting feel. The lyrics of reaching for the stars resonate as you embark on your own journey.

5. You Give Love a Bad Name by Bon Jovi

One of Bon Jovi's classic road trip songs, "You Give Love a Bad Name" adds a touch of rock and roll to the mix. The iconic guitar riff and powerful vocals make it a timeless anthem. As you sing along to this track, you'll find yourself embracing the wild side of the road.

6. Paralyzer by Finger Eleven

"Paralyzer" by Finger Eleven infuses a rock edge into our road trip adventure. The song's distinctive guitar riff and dynamic vocals create an electrifying atmosphere. With its energetic pace, this track is perfect for those stretches of road that demand a bit of extra adrenaline.

7. Private Eyes by Daryl Hall & John Oates

Daryl Hall & John Oates' "Private Eyes" channels a retro vibe that's perfect for nostalgic road trips. The catchy melody and rhythmic hooks invite you to tap along on the steering wheel. This ideal road trip song adds a touch of funk and soul to your journey.

8. Just Dance by Lady Gaga & Colby O'Donis

Lady Gaga's "Just Dance," featuring Colby O'Donis, brings pop eccentricity to our playlist. The song's pulsating beats and Gaga's distinctive vocals create an infectious rhythm. This track is a reminder to let loose and embrace the joy of the journey, and can be found front and center in our ultimate road trip playlist.

9. TiK ToK by Kesha

Kesha's "TiK ToK" is a pop anthem and one of those amazing road trip songs that embodies carefree fun and spontaneity. The song's electronic beats and Kesha's unique style make it a standout choice. As you sing along to the lyrics, you'll find yourself caught up in the excitement of the road trip.

10. First Date by blink-182

blink-182's "First Date" adds a pop-punk flair to our road trip songs mix. The song's playful lyrics and energetic guitars capture the essence of youthful adventure. With its catchy chorus, this track is perfect for those moments of unbridled enthusiasm on the road.

11. Still Waiting by Sum 41

"Still Waiting" by Sum 41 brings a dose of alternative rock energy to our journey. The song's angsty vocals and dynamic instrumentals create a raw and unfiltered vibe. This track is perfect for venting your road trip excitement and anticipation.

12. No Air by Jordin Sparks (feat. Chris Brown)

Jordin Sparks' "No Air," featuring Chris Brown, offers a heartfelt ballad amid our ultimate road trip playlist. The soulful vocals and sad lyrics add depth to the journey. This song is a reminder that even on the road, emotions can run just as deep.

13. You Make Me Feel... by Cobra Starship (feat. Sabi)

Cobra Starship's "You Make Me Feel..." featuring Sabi, adds an electronic pop edge to our road trip adventure. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it an instant mood lifter. With its infectious energy, this track is perfect for keeping the spirits high.

14. More Than My Hometown by Morgan Wallen

"More Than My Hometown" by Morgan Wallen adds a country touch to our road trip mix. The song's heartfelt lyrics and melodic guitar create a sense of intimacy. This track is perfect for those reflective moments as you navigate new horizons.

15. Shut Up And Drive by Rihanna

Rihanna's "Shut Up And Drive" delivers a burst of pop-rock attitude to our playlist. The song's driving rhythm (pun intended) and rebellious lyrics make it a perfect fit for any road trip songs playlist. This track encourages you to embrace the thrill of the journey and keep moving forward.

16. Womanizer by Britney Spears

Britney Spears' pop song "Womanizer" is one of those guilty pleasure fun songs for our road trip playlist. The song's catchy hooks and sassy vocals create an addictive rhythm. As you sing along, you'll find yourself getting into the groove of the adventure.

17. Some Nights by fun.

"Some Nights" by fun. adds a touch of indie pop introspection to our journey. The song's anthemic chorus and layered instrumentals create a rich and dynamic atmosphere. This track is perfect for those moments contemplating the road ahead, while unknowingly driving 15 over the speed limit. Or maybe that's just me.

18. Drive By by Train Train's

"Drive By" infuses a folk-pop vibe into our road trip playlist. The song's breezy melody and romantic lyrics create a sense of serenity. This track is ideal for those scenic drives where the destination is less important than the journey itself.

19. Since U Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson's "Since U Been Gone" delivers a dose of empowerment to our road trip adventure. The song's powerful vocals and memorable chorus make it a sing-along favorite. As you belt out the lyrics, you'll feel a surge of liberation on the road.

20. Baby by Justin Bieber & Ludacris

"Baby" by Justin Bieber, featuring Ludacris, adds a pop sensation to our road trip mix. The song's catchy hooks and youthful energy create an infectious rhythm. This track invites you to embrace the carefree spirit of the journey.

21. Hot N Cold by Katy Perry

Katy Perry's "Hot N Cold" brings a pop-infused attitude to our playlist. The song's playful lyrics and dynamic vocals create a vibrant atmosphere. As you sing along to the chorus, you'll find yourself caught up in the song's emotional rollercoaster.

22. Shattered [Turn The Car Around] by O.A.R.

"Shattered [Turn The Car Around]" by O.A.R. captures the bittersweet essence of road trips. This is one of those classic road trip songs, perfect for those moments when the road becomes a metaphor for life's twists and turns. And it's one of those classic driving songs, which will have everyone attempting to hit every note (while missing most).

23. Cooler Than Me by Mike Posner & Gigamesh

"Cooler Than Me" by Mike Posner, featuring Gigamesh, adds an electronic pop vibe to our journey. The song's catchy beat and laid-back vocals create a cool and breezy atmosphere. This track is ideal for cruising along with the windows down.

24. The Boys Are Back In Town by Thin Lizzy

One of the best road trip songs for the fellas, Thin Lizzy's "The Boys Are Back In Town" adds a classic rock anthem to our ultimate road trip playlist. The song's iconic guitar riff and energetic vocals create an irresistible groove. This track is perfect for jamming out with your fellow travelers.

25. In The Air Tonight by Phil Collins

Phil Collins' "In The Air Tonight" brings a timeless ballad to our journey. The song's haunting vocals and atmospheric instrumentals create an immersive experience. This track is one of the best road trip songs, perfect for those late-night drives where the road feels like a passage through time.

26. Pompeii by Bastille

"Pompeii" by Bastille infuses an indie rock vibe into our road trip adventure. The song's unique blend of electronic elements and anthemic chorus make it a standout choice. As you sing along, you'll find yourself swept up in the song's evocative storytelling.

27. Telephone by Lady Gaga & Beyoncé

Lady Gaga's "Telephone," featuring Beyoncé, adds a pop extravaganza to our playlist. The song's catchy hooks and bold vocals create a high-energy rhythm. This track is perfect for dialing up the fun factor on your journey.

28. Everyday is a Winding Road by Sheryl Crow

Sheryl Crow's "Everyday is a Winding Road" channels a folk-rock spirit into our road trip mix. The song's laid-back melody and reflective lyrics create a sense of contemplation. This tune is one of those good driving songs, ideal for those meandering drives that lead to unexpected discoveries.

29. Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver

"Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver adds a touch of nostalgia to our playlist. The song's heartfelt lyrics and acoustic arrangement create a sense of warmth. This track is a comforting companion as you navigate through landscapes both familiar and new.

30. Replay by Iyaz

Iyaz's "Replay" brings a reggae-infused pop vibe to our road trip adventure. The song's catchy melody and carefree lyrics create an upbeat atmosphere. This track invites you to hit the replay button on the joy of the journey, and is a staple in our ultimate road trip playlist.

31. Dream On by Aerosmith

Aerosmith's "Dream On" adds a rock and roll legend to our road trip mix. The song's powerful vocals and emotive instrumentals create a captivating experience. As you listen, you'll feel the song's anthemic energy resonating with the road ahead. One of the best road trip songs that everyone can enjoy, especially for those who love classic rock songs.

32. Hotel California by Eagles

Eagles' "Hotel California" delivers a classic rock masterpiece to our journey. The song's iconic guitar solos and enigmatic lyrics create an immersive ambiance. This track is perfect for those stretches of road where the destination seems distant, much like the mysterious hotel itself.

33. Fast Car by Luke Combs

"Fast Car" by Luke Combs adds a country twist to our road trip playlist. The song's evocative storytelling and heartfelt vocals create an emotional connection. This track is perfect for those moments when the road becomes a backdrop for personal reflection.

34. LoveGame by Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga's "LoveGame" infuses an electronic pop vibe into our adventure. The song's infectious rhythm and playful lyrics create a dancefloor-worthy atmosphere. This track encourages you to embrace the spontaneity of the journey.

35. Ocean Drive by Duke Dumont

Duke Dumont's "Ocean Drive" brings electronic beats to our road trip soundtrack. The song's laid-back tempo and nostalgic undertones create a dreamy ambiance. This track is ideal for those evening drives as the sun dips below the horizon.

36. Somebody That I Used To Know by Gotye & Kimbra

"Somebody That I Used To Know" by Gotye, featuring Kimbra, offers an indie pop gem to our playlist. The song's raw emotion and distinctive vocals create a haunting yet captivating experience. As you listen, you'll find yourself reflecting on past connections and letting go.

37. Everybody Wants To Rule The World by Tears For Fears

Tears For Fears' "Everybody Wants To Rule The World" adds a timeless classic to our road trip playlist mix. The song's anthemic chorus and introspective lyrics create a sense of contemplation. This track is perfect for pondering the world beyond the road, and is one of those great road trip songs.

38. Good Life by OneRepublic

OneRepublic's "Good Life" infuses pop optimism into our journey. The song's upbeat tempo and feel-good lyrics create an uplifting atmosphere. This song is a reminder to appreciate the simple pleasures of life, making it one of the best road trip songs.

39. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" brings a southern rock anthem to our road trip adventure. The song's iconic guitar riff and spirited vocals create a sense of nostalgia. This track is perfect for embracing the spirit of the open road.

40. Move Along by The All-American Rejects

"Move Along" by The All-American Rejects delivers a dose of pop-punk energy to our playlist. The song's dynamic instrumentals and motivating lyrics create an empowering atmosphere. This track encourages you to keep moving forward on the journey.

41. Classic by MKTO

"Classic" by MKTO infuses pop charisma into our road trip mix. The song's catchy hooks and retro references create a playful vibe. As you listen, you'll find yourself embracing the joy of the present moment, making it an ideal road trip song to enjoy in the car with your friends or family.

42. Heart Attack by Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato's "Heart Attack" adds a pop sensation to our road trip soundtrack. The song's emotive vocals and relatable lyrics create an intense atmosphere. This track is perfect for those moments when emotions run high on the road, making it one of the best car songs.

I'd just recommend rolling up the windows so your fellow drivers don't hear you trying to hit Demi's high notes... certainly not an easy task.

43. Whatcha Say by Jason Derulo

"Whatcha Say" by Jason Derulo offers an R&B-infused track to our journey. The song's smooth vocals and rhythmic beat create an alluring ambiance. As you listen, you'll find yourself captivated by the emotional twists of the road, making it a perfect road trip song for any drive.

44. Complicated by Avril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne's "Complicated" delivers pop-punk authenticity to our road trip mix. The song's relatable lyrics and energetic instrumentals create an edgy atmosphere. This track is perfect for embracing the complexity of the journey, and is one of the best road trip songs when it comes to sing along songs.

45. Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield

Another one of those coveted sing along songs that are a staple in good driving songs, Natasha Bedingfield's "Unwritten" brings a pop anthem to our adventure. The song's uplifting lyrics and catchy melody create a sense of possibility. This track is a reminder that every twist and turn on the road brings new opportunities.

46. Bleeding Love by Leona Lewis

Leona Lewis' "Bleeding Love" adds an emotive ballad to our road trip playlist. This is one of those classic road trip songs, boasting both powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics create a poignant atmosphere. This track is perfect for those moments when emotions converge on the road, and a must add to your road trip songs playlist.

47. Should've Been Us by Tori Kelly

"Should've Been Us" by Tori Kelly delivers a soulful track to our journey. The song's expressive vocals and emotional resonance create a heartfelt experience. As you listen, you'll find yourself lost in the emotions of the road, making it one of the best road trip songs for your road trip playlist.

48. Just A Dream by Nelly

Nelly's "Just A Dream" adds a hip-hop touch to our road trip adventure. The song's reflective lyrics and melodic chorus create an introspective atmosphere. This track is perfect for those moments of deep contemplation on the journey, and one of my personal favorite road trip songs.

49. Still into You by Paramore

"Still into You" by Paramore infuses pop-rock energy into our playlist. The song's upbeat tempo and joyful lyrics create an exhilarating vibe. As you sing along, you'll find yourself celebrating the enduring excitement of the road trip.

50. Bring Me To Life by Evanescene

Last but not least in our list of the best road trip songs, "Bring Me To Life" by Evanescene delivers a rock anthem full of energy to our ultimate road trip playlist. The song's powerful vocals and intense instrumentals create a captivating experience. This track is perfect for those moments when the road becomes a journey of self-discovery.

10 Honorable Mentions

There are so many good road trip songs, so let's mention a few more classic road trip songs before wrapping up our review.

Is This Love by Bob Marlet & The Wailers

Scar Tissue by Red Hot Chili Peppers

Good Vibrations by The Beach Boys

Free Fallin' by Tom Petty

Welcome To The Jungle by Guns N' Roses

Hit the Road Jack by Ray Charles

Paint It, Black by The Rolling Stones

Born in the U.S.A. by Bruce Springsteen

Love Song by Sara Bareilles

Truckin' by The Grateful Dead

To listen to our full playlist, with over 37 hours of the best road trip songs, click here .

In Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip is akin to embracing the unknown, a journey where each turn holds a promise of new discoveries and cherished memories.

Our carefully curated playlist of the 600 best songs for a road trip serves as the ideal co-pilot, accompanying you through every twist and turn, hill and horizon.

From classic rock legends to contemporary pop sensations, we've woven a symphony that resonates with the spirit of adventure.

As the miles stretch ahead, the music becomes your steadfast companion, weaving its melodies through the tapestry of your travels.

It's not just about getting from one place to another with good road trip songs; – it's the soundtrack to your journey, transforming mere drives into unforgettable experiences.

So, crank up the volume, roll down the windows, and let the music take the wheel.

The road may be long, but with the right company – and the right tunes – every mile is a memory waiting to be made.

Let these songs be your companions, your motivators, and your storytellers as you write the tale of your own epic road trip.

To listen to the full journey encapsulated in melodies, click here:

Our Ultimate Road Trip Playlist .

Happy travels!

• Our Playlists

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Road Trip Playlist (150 Songs!)

By: Author Isabelle Robledo

Posted on Last updated: December 14, 2023

If you’re going on a road trip you must have an awesome playlist! As a passionate road tripper, who’s been traveling in an RV with my parents and four siblings for the last 5 years, and a music lover, going on a road trip without an awesome road trip playlist is the worst packing mistake you could make.

I’ve put together a complete road trip playlist to last you til the end of time (or at least 9 hours). Below is the perfect road trip playlist divided into four parts whether you’re looking for happy music, chill background tunes, head-nodding jams, or classic sing-alongs!

I’ve included a link at the bottom so you can download this entire playlist on Spotify as well as each playlist.

Before you head out on that epic road trip, check out our other Road Trip Blogs:

• Road Trip Pack List
• How to Plan a Successful Road Trip
• Tips for Your First Camping or RV Trip
• 14 Tips For Your First Road Trip
• How To Road Trip on a Budget
• Essential RV Gadgets for Your RV
• Roadschooling Your Kids

The Perfect Road Trip Playlist 

• Happy Playlist

Songs to keep the good vibes rolling

1. Buttercup – Jack Stauber

2. Shut Up And Dance – WALK THE MOON

3. Blisters In The Sun – Violent Femmes

4. Gone Daddy Gone – Violent Femmes

5. Everyday People – Sly & The Family Stone

6. Someday – The Strokes

7. One Of Us – New Politics

8. NBHD – Onerepublic 

9. Good Life – Onerepublic

10. Life in Color – Onerepublic 

11. Lucky – Jason Mraz

12. Midnight City – M83

13. Oxygen – Dirty Heads

14. I Don’t Care – Ed Sheeran (with Justin Bieber)

15. Dog Days Are Over – Florence And The Machine

16. When It Was Wrong – California Honeydrops

17. Cleopatra – The Lumineers 

18. Burn The House Down – AJR

19. Everything Now – Arcade Fire 

20. Ride – Twenty One Pilots

21. High Hopes – Panic! At The Disco

22. We Are Young – fun

23. The Walker – Fitz And The Tantrums

24. Wake Up – Arcade Fire

25. Upside Down – Jack Johnson

26. Starman – David Bowie

27. 9 to 5 – Dolly Partson

28. Faith – George Michael 

29. Take It All Back 2.0 – Judah & The Lion

30. Unbelievers – Vampire Weekend 

31. Might Be Right – White Reaper

32. Everybody Talks – Neon Trees

33. The Hype – Twenty One Pilots 

34. Fool – Dan Luke and The Raid 

35. The Underdog – Spoon

36. Safe And Sound – Capitol Cities

37. Best Day Of My Life – American Authors

38. My Life – Billy Joel

• Jam On Playlist

These songs for when you’ve been driving for hours on end and to need a jump start

39. What’s Up- 4 Non-Blondes

40. Back In Black – AC/DC

41. Like A Stone – Audioslave

42. E-Pro – Beck 

43. Hard To Handle – The Black Crowes

44. Pump It – Black Eyed Peas

45. Dancing In The Dark – Bruce Springsteen

46. Come A Little Closer – Cage the Elephant 

47. The Distance – Cake

48. What I Got – Sublime

49. I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) –

50. The Kids Aren’t Alright – Fall Out Boy

51. This Ain’t A Scene, It’s An Arms Race – Fall out Boy

52. Handlebars – Flobots

53. Best Of You – Foo Fighters

54. Sweet Child O’Mine – Guns N’ Roses

55. Choke – I DONT KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME

56. Believer – Imagine Dragons

57. Overthinker – INZO

58. Gloria – The Lumineers 

59. Float On – Modest Mouse

60. Supermassive Black Hole – Muse

61. Come As You Are – Nirvana

62. Feel It Still – Portugal. The Man

63. Fat Bottomed Girls – Queen

64. Creep – Radiohead

65. Sky Is The Limit – Rebelution 

66. Can’t Stop – Red Hot Chili Peppers

67. Dani California – Red Hot Chili Peppers

68. Paint It Black – The Rolling Stones

69. I Heard It Through The Grapevine – The Slits 

70. Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol

71. Best Friend – Sofi Tukker (Feat. NERVO, The Knocks, & Alli Ueno)

72. Black Hole Sun – Soundgarden

73. Dream On – Aerosmith

74. Drive – Incubus 

• Chill Playlist

Songs perfect for when you want good music that can be in the background

75. Stand Tall – Dirty Heads

76. Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros 

77. Take a Walk – Passion Pit

78. Young Folks – Peter Bjorn & John

79. High Dive – Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness

80. When It Was Wrong – California Honeydrops

81. The Girl – City and Colour

82. Clocks – Coldplay

83. Hang Me Up To Dry – Cold War Kids 

84. Half The World Away – Oasis

85. Space Oddity – David Bowie 

86. Ho Hey – The Lumineers

87. Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran

88. Everlong (Acoustic Version) – Foo Fighters

89. Pumped Up Kicks – Foster The People

90. Dead Sea – The Lumineers 

91. Dirty Paws – Of Monsters And Men

92. Oxford Comma – Vampire Weekend

93. Tennessee Whiskey – Chris Stapleton

94. Viva La Vida – Coldplay

95. Hey There Delilah – Plain White T’s

96. The Night We Met – Lord Huron

97. The World At Large – Modest Mouse 

98. Guiding Light – Mumford & Sons 

99. Starlight – Muse

100. Liztomania – Phoenix

101. Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd 

102. Circles – Post Malone

103. death bed (coffee for your head) – Powfu, beabadoobe

104. Karma Police – Radiohead 

105. Courage To Grow – Rebelution

106. Losing My Religion – R.E.M

107. Wish I Knew You – Revivalists

108. Tiger Striped Sky – Roo Panes 

109. New Slang – The Shins 

110. Sunday Best – Surfaces 

111. Dancing In The Moonlight – Toploader

112. Riptide – Vance Joy

113. Superposition – Young The Giant 

114. In The Air Tonight – Phil Collins 

• Classics Playlist

Songs we consider classics in our household that you will want to sing along to, dance, or both

115. A-Punk – Vampire Weekend

116. I’m Yours – Jason Mraz

117. Have You Ever Seen The Rain – Creedence Clearwater Revival

118. Starman – David Bowie

119. American Pie – Don Mclean

120. Heartache Tonight – Eagles 

121. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go – Wham!

122. Without Me – Eminem

123. Africa – Toto

124. Psycho Killer – Talking Heads

125. Santeria – Sublime

126. Escape (The Piña Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes 

127. Come And Get Your Love – Redbone

128. Oh Pretty Woman – Roy Robinson

129. Stand By Me – Ben E. King

130. I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor

131. Radioactive – Imagine Dragons

132. Counting Stars – Onerepublic 

133. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye

134. Can’t Take My Eyes Off You – Frankie Valli

135. You Make My Dreams Come True – Hall & Oats 

136. Hotel California – Eagles

137. Loser – Beck

138. Hooked On A Feeling – Blue Swede

139. Cigarette Daydream – Cage The Elephant

140. Dancing Queen – ABBA

141. House Of The Rising Sun – The Animals

142. Should I Stay Or Should I Go? The Clash 

143. All These Things That I’ve Done – The Killers

144. Island In The Sun – Wheezer

145. Fell In Love With A Girl – The White Stripes

146. The Chain – Fleetwood Mac

147. Free fallin’ – Tom Petty

149. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrn

150. The Joker – The Steve Miller Band

151. Another One Bites The Dust – Queen

152. The Devil Went Down To Georgia – The Charlie Daniels Band

Download the Entire Playlist on Spotify

You can click here to get the whole Spotify playlist or the titles below for each playlist

Road Trip Inspo

Here are some of our favorite road trip itineraries to inspire your next vacation!

• Ultimate West Coast Road Trip Guide
• Southern California Road Trip
• Million Dollar Highway Road Trip
• Alaska Road Trip
• Colorado Road Trip
• Oregon Road Trip
• Idaho Road Trip
• California Coast Road Trip
• Northern California Waterfall Road Trip
• Washington Cascade Loop Road Trip
• Southwest National Parks Road Trip
• Washington State National Parks Road Trip
• South Dakota Black Hills Road Trip
• Canada National Parks Road Trip
• Sea To Sky Highway Road Trip

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Music History Man

Where History and Music Meet

• The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist: 15 Songs to Fuel Your Adventure

Introduction

Picture this: you’re on the open road, the sunroof is open, and the wind is in your hair. What could make this road trip even more memorable? The perfect playlist, of course! Every road trip needs a soundtrack, and we’ve got you covered. Here, we’ve curated the ultimate road trip playlist featuring 15 songs that will keep your spirits high and the miles flying by. So, buckle up, roll down the windows, and let’s hit the road with the best tunes to accompany your journey.

Title: The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist: 15 Songs to Fuel Your Adventure

Introduction:

1. Runnin’ Down a Dream by Tom Petty

Tom Petty’s “Runnin’ Down a Dream” is your go-to anthem for the start of your adventure. As the guitar riff kicks in and Petty’s distinctive voice fills the car, you’ll feel an irresistible urge to chase your dreams and leave the everyday behind.

2. Born to Be Wild by Steppenwolf

“Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf is the soundtrack for your rebellious spirit. The electric guitar and powerful vocals encapsulate the wild and untamed essence of the open road, encouraging you to explore new horizons with every turn.

3. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama” makes you feel right at home no matter where you are. With its catchy melody and sing-along chorus, it’s the perfect song to crank up while cruising the highways, evoking the carefree spirit of the South.

4. Life is a Highway by Tom Cochrane

“Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane reminds us that the journey itself is a treasure. With its upbeat tempo and uplifting lyrics, this song encourages you to savor every moment of your road trip, making it an essential addition to your playlist.

5. On the Road Again by Willie Nelson

Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again” embodies the nomadic spirit of road tripping. As you embrace the freedom of the open road, let this song be your companion, resonating with every mile you cover.

6. Drop It Like It’s Hot by Snoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg’s “Drop It Like It’s Hot” adds a hip-hop swagger to your journey. The rhythm and infectious beats exude confidence, setting the tone for a stylish and carefree drive.

7. SexyBack by Justin Timberlake

“SexyBack” by Justin Timberlake brings modern pop energy to your playlist. The electrifying beats and Timberlake’s smooth vocals make it impossible not to feel on top of the world as you cruise.

8. Summer of ’69 by Bryan Adams

Bryan Adams’ “Summer of ’69” is a rock ballad that transports you to a time of youth and adventure. The melody and lyrics evoke carefree summers and the thrill of the open road.

9. Start Me Up by The Rolling Stones

“Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones is a rock ‘n’ roll anthem that embodies the excitement of the road. The iconic guitar riff and dynamic vocals infuse your journey with rock spirit.

10. Right Round by Flo Rida

Flo Rida’s “Right Round” brings contemporary pop energy to your road trip. The catchy hooks and dance beats keep the enthusiasm high and the fun rolling.

11. California Love by 2Pac 2Pac’s

“California Love” celebrates the vibrant spirit of the Golden State. The beat and lyrics invite you to embrace the freedom and vitality of the road.

12. Return of the Mack by Mark Morrison

“Return of the Mack” by Mark Morrison adds smooth R&B vibes to your playlist. The soulful rhythm captures the feeling of moving forward and rediscovering yourself on your journey.

13. Edge of Seventeen by Stevie Nicks

Stevie Nicks’ “Edge of Seventeen” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that mirrors the exhilaration of venturing into the unknown. The melody and ethereal vocals create a sense of mystery and wonder.

14. Radio Ga Ga by Queen

“Radio Ga Ga” by Queen transports you to the classic rock era. Freddie Mercury’s vocals and the infectious rhythm turn your car into a mobile concert venue as you cruise.

15. Don’t Stop the Music by Rihanna

Rihanna’s “Don’t Stop the Music” infuses your road trip with pop energy that keeps the excitement alive. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus turn every moment into a dance-worthy celebration.

With this diverse collection of road trip songs, your journey is sure to be filled with excitement, nostalgia, and a sense of adventure. As the miles unfold before you, these tunes will be your constant companions, amplifying the thrill of exploration.

Your road trip isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the memories you make along the way. So, keep your playlist ready, your heart open, and your sense of adventure alive as you set forth on your next road trip.

Spotify Playlist…

Latest blogs….

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• The Rolling Stones

60 Best Road Trip Songs to Rock the Drive

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 16, 2023

Our list of the best road trip songs from the classics to today. We do a lot of road trips have rounded up the best driving songs to help you pass the time.

Nothing makes driving better than a good road trip playlist. And we’ve compiled the ultimate road trip playlist for your next overland adventure.

Table of Contents

The Best Road Trip Songs

1. sympathy for the devil by the rolling stones.

If you are looking for a song to drive to with a lot of groove, Sympathy for the Devil is just the ticket. We’ve been lucky enough to see the Rolling Stones in concert three times. Dave even met the band way back in 2003 when he shot a media blitz they did in Toronto.

This is by far our favorite Rolling Stones song for a road trip . Even if we have to get out of the car soon, we’ll leave the engine running until the final chord is played!

Get it on Amazon for just $1.29 / Buy the  Rolling Stones Greatest Hits  on Amazon

2. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

I didn’t know a lot about Lynyrd Skynyrd until I watched the documentary Muscle Shoals . It’s a music biography about one of the most innovative sound studios of the 60s featuring the Rolling Stones and Lynard Skynyrd.

But I have always known the song Sweet Home Alabama, and there is something about this song’s beat that make it the perfect driving song.

In Sweet Home Alabama, there’s a stanza saying: “ Now Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers And they’ve been known to pick a song or two “

Watching Muscle Shoals makes us want to get in the car and drive to Alabama to see the famous studio for ourselves!

Purchase Sweet Home Alabama for $1.29

3. Little Red Corvette By Prince

One of the best driving songs ever is Little Red Corvette by Prince. Who wouldn’t want to be driving a red corvette through the streets. The song is filled with metaphors, but when I sing it, I just think about driving.

It is sad to see another legend lost, but his music lives on. Buy Little Red Corvette $1.29

Pick up a copy of  Prince’s Greatest Hits , you won’t be disappointed. But there are some tributes happening on Spotify now.

4. Another One Bites the Dust by Queen

Queen is my ultimate favourite band. Metallica is Dave’s. I could have just said, “ buy Queen’s greatest hits and you’ll have the perfect Road Trip playlist”.

However, I can only choose one, and if you want a song that picks you up when you’re feeling a little groggy on the road, Another One Bites the Dust does the trick. Man, I love the bass in this song.

If you watch the Queen Documentary on the  BBC , you’ll learn that the Bass Player, John Deacon, actually wrote some of Queen’s biggest anthems, like this one, You’re my Best Friend and I Want to Break Free.

Get Another One Bites the Dust on Amazon just $1.29 / Watch Bohemian Rapsody

• Start Planning our own road trip with  National Geographic’s World Atlas  available on Amazon 

5. Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson Featuring Bruno Mars

While spending a summer in Spain and driving around  Costa Brava this Mark Ronson/Bruno Mars tune was was our go-to road trip song. We called it the song of summer and whenever it came on, we’d jive and jam in the car.

Dave and I love to sing during a road trip and this one makes you want to wail at the top of your lungs. “We’re gonna Uptown Funk you Up!”

Download Up Town Funk on Amazon 

6. Home for a Rest by Spirit of the West

This roadtrip song by Canada’s Spirit of the West always makes me want to go to London, England, and hang out in the pubs. I think about all the travels we have done, and when we do come home, we really do need a rest. 

Travel  is exhausting and when you add pub crawling to the mix, it is doubly exhausting. Spirit of the West captured the spirit of travel beautifully with this perfect driving song.

“ You’ll have to excuse me I’m not at my best, I’ve Been Gone for a Month, I’ve Been Drunk Since I left. These so called vacations will soon be my death, I’m so sick from the Drink, I need home for a rest …”

Download now on Amazon

7. Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers

How does one choose a favourite Red Hot Chili Pepper’s song? They have so many great albums. But Californication is the perfect tune for a road trip. Heck, even the video is all about driving.

I used to say, “How can anyone not name Red Hot Chili Peppers as one of the greatest bands of all time?” I mean, everything is perfection. Anthony Kiedis is a poet, Flea is a master on the bass, and John Frusciante creates the most memorable and intricate guitar riffs out there today. Plus, how can you forget Chad Smith on drums. He’s quiet and unassuming in real life, just like his music: Subtle and creative. Plus, he looks exactly like Will Ferrel.

You’ve got to read  Scar Tissue  by Anthony Kiedis – this book will blow your mind about everything he and the band have gone through. Buy the album  Californication . The entire disc is perfection.

8. 500 Miles by The Proclaimers

There’s nothing really amazing musically about this song by the  Scottish  Band, the Proclaimers, but when it comes to road trip music, it has the perfect beat. When comes up on the playlist, everyone stops to sing along. This song was made to be a song to drive to!

It’s one of those songs that you can’t help but love. Even if you hate it! I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) must be included on your Road Trips Songs playlist, it would be criminal to leave it out. Check out our guide to the North Coast 500

Buy it on Amazon for $1.29 / Rent  Benny and Joon where the song was featured

9. Take it Easy by The Eagles

Remember when Elaine’s boyfriend refused to speak to anyone when Desperado came on the radio during a classic  Seinfeld episode ? When it comes to the Eagles,  Hotel California  is our song. But when it comes to road trip songs by The Eagles, Take it Easy is Number one. See a great California Road Trip at 17 Mile Drive in Monterey

“ Well I’m a runnin’ down the road trying to loosen my load I’ve got seven women on my mind”

This song was meant for driving. It’s seriously all a bout driving.

If you happen to be going on an Arizona Road Trip, be sure to stop on the corner of Winslow Arizona like in the lyrics “ Well, I’m a standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona . Such a fine sight to see .”

Don’t speak to me, don’t even look at me when Hotel California comes on because I am going to sing along and play air guitar to that classic solo.

Get it now on Amazon / Get the  Hell Freezes Over Tour  where the Eagles come together live.

10. Running on Empty by Jackson Browne

I bet you didn’t know that Jackson Browne played a huge role in making the Eagles famous. He was roommates with Glen Frey and Don Henley at one point.

Heck, for the longest time when I was a kid, I thought Running on Empty was performed by the Eagles. They have similar sounds because Jackson Browne actually co-wrote a lot of the Eagles songs. How do we know all this? We watched the Eagles documentary.

Anyway, back to the song. Running on Empty is a road trip song, period. Come on, the album cover has a road on it!

Buy Running on Empty on Amazon / Rent the movie  The Eagles History  to see the role Jackson Brown played in their success.

11. Paradise by the Dashboard Light by Meatloaf

Who doesn’t love Meatloaf? Paradise by the Dashboard Light was the song of the 70s. There are so many layers to this song and right from that first guitar lick, you can’t help but get ready to start singing along in the car.

Dave and I love it when it breaks into a duet and we sing back and forth. We start screaming until our vocal chords nearly break. After that song, you almost have to pull over for a break. It’s that intense. For us, it’s one of the most fun songs to drive to on our playlist.

Get the album  Bat Out of Hell . Every song is great.

A great one day drive that we highly recommend is the  Hana Highway on Maui.  Make sure you have your road trip songs picked out because radio service in limited. 

12. Take the Money and Run by Steve Miller Band

“T his here’s the story ’bout Billy Joe and Bobby Sue “.

The Steve Miller Band’s Songs were made to sing along to. Dave and I love to harmonize to their music. It’s just so easy to hear the thirds and fifths. The reason we chose Take the Money and Run is that ” They’re headed down south and they’re still running today .”

We don’t plan on shooting anyone and taking their money, but we do plan on traveling forever. It’s in our blood and even if we do settle down a bit, something tells me we’ll always be on the move. Dave and I moved to  Vancouver  in 1992 and we’re still moving today. Maybe not running, but definitely at a steady pace.

Get Steve Miller’s Take the Money and Run

13. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf

It’s probably the first and most cliché road trip song that anyone thinks of. Considering the lyrics start with:

“ Get your motor running Head out on the highway .”

So, really any road trip playlist would be remiss by not including it. It’s a good one to get the energy up when hitting the open road.

Add it to the list from Amazon

14. I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash

I love this song by the Man in Black. If you are looking for a song to drive to that is challenging to learn, this is it! It’s all about the places he has been crisscrossing through North America on his tour bus.

I originally only had this song in our travel songs playlist, but I realize that not everyone checks out both articles, so I had to bring it over here. You can’t ever leave out Johnny Cash man.

Get motivated on Amazon

15. On the Road Again by Willie Nelson

On The Road Again is the quintessential song about road tripping. But, his laid back style of singing will make for a relaxed road trip moment and be sure to keep you within the speed limit. It’s a fitting song for this list because after all “I just can’t wait to get on the road again.”

Buy it now $1.29

16. Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen

Everybody loves Bruce Springsteen and Baby we were born to run, is one of the great songs to drive to. This entire song is about driving and running. It’s about getting out of the small town trap and getting to the place you want to be.

The Boss is a great lyricist using car metaphors to tell his story. This driving beat will make you want to get behind your engine and run too.

Buy it on Amazon

17. Graceland by Paul Simon

When Paul Simon’s Graceland came out I went nuts for the rhythms inspired by his trip to Africa. When I went to Kenya for the first time , I was totally blown away that I stayed at the same lodge that he and Carrie Fisher stayed at during that exact trip. But that’s another story.

Graceland is an awesome song that fits with driving through America’s southern states. Who wouldn’t want to take a road trip to Elvis’s Graceland?

Get it now to see what I’m talking about

18. Life is a Highway by Tom Cochrane

We always love including Canadians. Tom Cochrane’s rock anthem “Life is a Highway” was playing across radio stations throughout the summer that Dave and I met.

We’d drive down the road belting out “ life is a highway, I wanna drive it all night long .” It has a great driving beat and the lyrics are easy to learn. It’s perfect for a road tripping son.

get it on Amazon

19. Love Shack by the B52s

You can’t have a party without The B52s. I’ll never forget seeing them in concert. I had no idea who they were a friend invited me and I’m glad he did.

We arrived at Massey Hall in Toronto where the crowd was filled with people sporting beehive hairdos and wardrobes straight out of Austin Powers.

Once the music started, we rushed the stage and there I stood at the very front listening to the best party tunes I’ve ever heard. When choosing road trip music, be sure to include Love Shack!

Get Love Shack on Amazon

20. Good Vibrations by The Beach Boys

It was after watching  Love and Mercy  and  The Wrecking Crew  that we realised just what a genius Brian Wilson is. We even had the opportunity to see the Beach Boys live (sans Brian Wilson) at a private party in Orlando a few years ago.

They made a lot of good lighthearted songs like California Girls, Surfin’ USA and Kokomo, but it’s Good Vibrations that really shows the depth and musicality of the band’s genius. This song has the vibe that both Dave and I love for a road trip. I’m pickin’ up Good Vibrations.

Listen now on Amazon

21. Back in Black by ACDC

You may be thinking “No way, Highway to Hell is the ACDC song that fits in the road trip play list”. You may be correct, but doesn’t Back in Black have an awesome beat. That guitar at the beginning just rocks.

It’s no wonder Marvel’s Iron Man used it as the song for their opening scene as Robert Downey Jr. was driving with a band of army guys (and gal) from his arms dealing display in  Afghanistan .

Ever since then I’ve associated Back in Black with driving. Sure, he was in a Humvee and I’m usually in a mini compact economy car, but hey, I feel tough when that tune is playing.

Start making your own road tripping playlist for just $1.29 / Buy it on Amazon

22. The Way by Fastball

Don’t you ever want to just hit the road without ever knowing the way. That’s what this song is about. One of my favorite lyrics in the song is “an exit to eternal summer slacking, but where were they going without ever knowing the way.” So let’s. go wander the highway while listening to The Way.

23. Lose Yourself by Eminem

I once sang this song in  Belize  with the local crime lord. I didn’t know it at the time, but after I got off the karaoke stage, where I was joined by a random man who had a big grin on his face, I was told, he was that man. Woah.

The friends you make when you sing Eminem. But this song rocks. Dave and I saw 8 Mile in the theatre and were totally impressed with Mr. Marshall Mathers’ acting ability.

We promptly bought the soundtrack and learned the lyrics to this song.

It’s one of those songs where, once you learn the lyrics, you never forget them because they are so fast and furious, you fall over yourself trying to say them with him!

Listen to Lose Yourself now / Get the Movie  8 Mile on Amazon Prime

24. Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac

A road trip song playlist wouldn’t be complete without Fleetwood Mac and this song has the groove for driving.

“Let’s all sing it together….You can go your own way, Go your own way You can call it another lonely day You can go your own way”

25. See You Again by Wiz Khalifa, Charlie Puth

Why this song wasn’t nominated for an Academy Award was beyond me. Everyone was shocked when actor Paul Walker was killed in a car crash. He died during the filming of Furious 7.

I never did see the film, but this song played during his final scene in the movie, which I read all about. It seemed to be a beautiful send off to him and whenever I hear it, it still brings a little tear to my eye.

This is a great song for a road trip and is fitting since it’s the title theme for a movie about fast cars.

Buy this song on Amazon $1.29 / Watch all the  Fast and the Furious Movies  in this Box Set.

26. Jack & Diane by John Mellencamp

John Cougar was the first musician I ever saw live. My brother and now sister in law brought me to a show at Copps Coliseum in Hamilton and I couldn’t get enough of his music after that.

I loved his rockabilly sound and to this day, the minute those first five chords ring out over the car stereo, I start rockin’. Jack and Diane is probably his best song and is all about two American kids living in the  heartland .

Check it out on Amazon $1.29

27. Drive My Car by The Beatles

Baby you can drive my car, yes I’m gonna be a star. Have you watch Carpool Karaoke with Paul McCartney and James Corden yet? It is awesome and yes, they do sing the quintessential Beatles road tripping song as they drive around Liverpool checking out Paul’s old haunts.

28. You Oughta Know by Alannis Morisette

The feminism anthem of the 1990s was written and performed by a Canadian. We owned the album Jagged Little Pill and there isn’t a bad song in the bunch.

But it’s You Oughta Know that is one of the best road trip songs on the album. The staccato speech at the beginning gets you hooked for the driving beats ahead making it one of the best driving songs out there.

“I – Want – you – to – know. That – I’m – happy for you. I – wish – nothing – but – the – best – for – you both.”

Was this sone about Joey from Full House? We’ll never know. But you oughta know

Buy the  album Jagged Little Pill,  it’s a good one!

29. Sweet Child O’Mine by Guns n’ Roses

Okay, Dave and I are huge Guns n’ Roses fans. When choosing road trip songs, GnR is right at the top.

We know every word, and both of us immediately stop talking and start singing and playing air guitar. (Or if Dave’s driving, air drumming on the steering wheel.) Guns n’ Roses’ music holds up after all these years and they have many songs made for passing the time on long drives.

Download Sweet Child O’ Mine on Amazon

30. Coming to America by Neil Diamond

During our cycling road trip through Africa . I had Neil Diamond’s Greatest Hits on my playlist. Whenever I was feeling exhausted or just overwhelmed with the scope of the day’s ride ahead, I’d put on Neil Diamond’s mix of mellow and fun tunes. It was “Coming to America” that picked me up the most. It’s just so motivating.

The driving beat makes you feel that you can do anything. It’s all about traveling far and coming to America. I’m not even American, and it inspires me. This song captures what America used to be to so many people. Let’s hope they get there again.

Buy on Amazon Now

Enjoy reading about our road trip through the Causeway Coast at  The Best Things to do in Northern Ireland

31. Carry on Wayward Son by Kansas

If you are a fan of  Supernatural , (the TV series) you’ll recognize this song from the recaps they do at the beginning of most seasons. This song by Kansas has stood the test of time, not only because of Supernatural, but it was huge during the Guitar Hero days.

When they belt out their harmonies at the beginning followed by the hard drums and guitar solo, you can’t help but bounce to the beat. It’s no wonder this song is featured on Supernatural, Sam and Dean are always driving from town to town in Dean’s 1967 Chevy Impala

32. Hello by Adele

Who doesn’t love Adele’s velvet voice? Sure, “Hello” isn’t a fast-paced tune, but it is an excellent road trip song. Why? Because you can howl, scream and holler along.

Turn the stereo up to 11 and belt out those notes along with Adele. Don’t worry, everyone in the car will be singing along, so nobody will hear you scream “ Hello from the outside “.

Buy Hello to Add to your Road Trip Songs playlist $1.29

33. The Nights by Avicii

The best road trip songs are upbeat and easy to sing to. If you agree with that definition, The Nights is definitely a perfect tune for your playlist.

It’s easy to learn the lyrics and a lot of fun to sing a long with. The song is by the Swedish DJ Avicii, but it feels more  Celtic  to me. It was an awesome tune on our playlist for our road trip through Ireland last year.

You can buy the single on Amazon

34. The Distance by Cake

Man, Cake has some great road trip songs. They have a super sense of humour and their music is just simply a lot of fun. I could choose a couple of their songs for our road trip playlist, like Short Skirt Long Jacket or the hilarious Sheep go to Heaven, but Going the Distance is the song that was made for a road trip.

Because that’s in essence what you are doing when driving, right? “You’re going the distance, and you’re going for speed.”

Add Going the Distance to your Road Trip Playlist

35. More Than a Feeling by Boston

Lead Singer Brad Delp had one of the best voices in Rock n’ Roll. Dave and I love great vocalists and Boston’s songs were meant to wail to. He could reach the high notes with such clarity and there’s nothing more satisfying when out for a long day on the road than reaching those notes in the car and pretending to be a rock star. This is the song to do that to.

Buy More than a Feeling on Amazon

36. American Pie by Don McLean

When on a long road trip, there’s nothing better than a really long anthem-like song to come on. The miles seem to just fall away on the road. American Pie is one of those songs. A song that cuts nearly 10 minutes out of your road trip, as you sing along with each verse.

There’s something about knowing all the lyrics of American Pie that makes you feel like you are smart or something. When you know every word, it’s impressive to others. Well, at least Dave and I impress ourselves and that’s all that matters since we’re usually the only two in the car!

Download the ultimate road trip song on Amazon

37. American Woman by The Guess Who

Let’s stay with the American theme and go with this American classic, written by Canadians! When Dave and I got free tickets to see The Guess Who from his friend who ran their lighting, we weren’t sure what to expect. Weren’t these some old guys that sang songs we’ve never heard of? Boy were we wrong.

Burton Cummings’ voice is outstanding and Randy Bachman can make his guitar sing. But you’d also be surprised how many songs you know by the Guess Who. They had hit after hit.

American Woman has been deemed an American Anthem, but what’s funny about it is that the entire song disses on America.

“ I don’t need your war machines, I don’t need your ghetto scenes”. Colored lights may hypnotize Sparkle someone else’s eyes”

Listen closely and you’ll see that they’re telling America to stay away from them!

Get American Woman on Amazon 1.29

38. All About the Bass by Meghan Trainor

When I first heard Meghan Trainor’s voice I was hooked. It’s so clear and fun. Have you seen her sing on Jimmy Fallon with the Roots playing kids school instruments as back up? It’s amazing. That’s how you know someone can sing: When they’ve got nothing backing them up but a kazoo and they sound awesome.

This tune is so much fun. We’re also fans of Your Lips Are Movin’ by her as well. Meghan Trainor’s tunes were made for road tripping.

Get this road trip song on Amazon

39. Africa by Toto

Let’s slow This Road Trip Songs Playlist down a little now. Africa by Toto didn’t mean a lot to me until I went to Africa. They capture it beautifully in the song and it’s so soothing to listen to.

Wild dogs really do cry out in the night and yes,  Kilimanjaro  does rise like Olympus above the Serengeti. When Africa comes on, it makes me want to book a flight to Tanzania or Kenya.

These countries are two of our favorite places in the world and we could go back again and again. But until we do, there’s always Toto there to remind us of how much we love it.

Download on Amazon

• One of our favorite road trips where we had the tunes cranked was definitely a drive along the  Cowboy Route in Southern Alberta. 

40. Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey

Journey may have had a resurgence thanks to Glee, but we have always loved them. Open Arms is actually my favourite by them, but it doesn’t exactly fit the bill as one of the best road trip songs of all time. It’s more of a love ballad. We were both huge fans of Separate Ways, but perhaps the synthesizer is a little dated.

Don’t Stop Belivin’ is definitely the Journey song that was made for driving. Heck it’s even about taking a journey. “Just a city boy, born and raised in South Detroit . He took the midnight train going anywhere”.

Buy the song on Amazon / Rent the movie  Don’t Stop Believin ‘, it’s so inspiring!

41. I Bet My Life by Imagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons are quickly becoming one of our favourite bands of the 2000s. They are so versatile, with so many hits you don’t even realise they are the same band. They are the same guys that sing Radioactive, Demons and It’s Time. All songs are so different.

But it’s I Bet My Life that makes us want to bop our heads to the beat. We drove a lot through  Europe  last year and this was one of the big road trip songs for us to listen to.

Buy I Bet My Life for just $1.29

42. Dream On by Aerosmith

This song starts off slow and builds to a screeching point with Steven Tyler wailing “ Dream On, Dream On, Dream On, Dream Until Your Dreams Come True! “

You don’t want to be in the car with Dave and I when this song is on. Both of us are yelling at the top of our lungs and banging our heads to the beat. When Dream on comes on the radio, there’s no talking to either of us until the song is over.

Buy  AeroSmith’s Greatest Hits

• You don’t have to be in a car to appreciate good music. We had our playlist going like made in our Bluetooth helmets during our  tour around Lake Superior  on motorcycles. 

43. Rock Star by Nickelback

Hey, don’t hate on Nickelback okay? Everyone loves to hate this band, and yet they still have tons of top hits and sold out shows. Yes, Chad Kroeger’s hair sucks with his long bleach blond locks and dark roots and his goatee does not fit his face, but Nickleback has some pretty memorable tunes.

I remember listening to them sing live from “The Edge Studios” in Toronto for the first time when they belted out How you Remind Me. That song was their breakout hit, but you gotta listen to Rock Star. The lyrics of this song are hilarious and it was made for singing along to in the car.

Give Rock Star a chance now

44. Hey Ya by Outkast

I love the positive beat of this song. Sure it may or may not be a break up song, I can’t be sure about the lyrics – is it about breaking up or staying together? Who cares, it’s gone a cool vibe.

The video is so much fun and when this tune comes on, you instantly feel good. Andre3000 was named one of the best rappers of all time, and yet it’s this little ditty that we love for a road trip. My Baby don’t mess around.

Hey Ya on Amazon

45. Edge of Seventeen by Stevie Nicks

The ultimate female rock voice is Stevie Nicks. This has been one of my favourite songs for years. I could only wish that I had a Rock n Roll voice. Mine was stuck in the pop world, but that didn’t mean that I didn’t daydream about rocking it like Stevie on the big stage one day.

This rock song is great for anyone.  Even Dave rocks out to it when I turn it on. It may have never made it to the top 10 when it was released in 1981, but this is the most memorable of all her songs and over time has gained more fame and glory than it had during its original release.

Give it a shot and listen to it!

46. I Wanna Be Sedated by The Ramones

This is the easiest song to sing along to. It repeats and repeats but the beat keeps on going. When we’re on a super long road trip, we agree, Twenty, Twenty, Twenty-Fours hours to go! I wanna be sedated. Get the Ramones on your road trip playlist now. They’ll have you Ba ba baba, baba ba baba along all night long!

Purchase I Wanna Be Sedated

One of our latest road trip adventures took us to  Fraser Island in Australia . We spent 3 days driving through the sand dunes and scenery of this amazing destination. 

47. Redemption Song by Bob Marley

Bob Marley is another artist where we could just put on his greatest hits and make that a road trip playlist. But the self imposed rules of this article was to choose only one song per artist.

Yes, he has more up-tempo songs that could fit the genre better, but we feel that sometimes you gotta slow down when choosing a road trip song and let the mellow feeling takeover as you drive the open road.

Redemption Song is the perfect song for that occasion. It’s one of those songs where you can put your vocal skills to the test and sing with feeling.

Download Redemption Song for 1.29 on Amazon

48. Follow You Into the Dark by Death Cab for Cutie

Sticking with slow songs, Dave and I love this one by Death Cab for Cutie. It’s a love song and we love a good love song. Hey, we’re both romantics at heart. One of my favourite lines is:

“You and me have seen everything to see From Bangkok to Calgary The soles of your shoes are all worn down “ That’s how Dave and I feel, we’ve seen it all together and we love doing so.

Download this now  for your Road Trip Song Playlist on Amazon

49. Life’s Been Good by Joe Walsh

Another very long tune. Life’s Been Good is a great road trip sing-a-long song. It goes on for a whopping 8 minutes. Do you know how many km you can cover when driving at 100km (or if you’re like most people, 120km) per hour?

That’s right, 15km will fly right by! How does Life’s Been Good fit with a road trip? Well, he does sing, “ My  Maserati  does 185, I lost my license, now I don’t drive. ” Best lyrics ever!

50. Shelter from the Storm by Bob Dylan

Well, since we’re in the vein of 1960s music icons. We must include a little Bob Dylan. You see, you want your road trip playlist to be versatile. You can’t stick with one genre or one decade. It needs to span many years and cover all music types.

That way you never get bored. Shelter from the Storm is one of Bob’s greatest hits and he’s had many.

You may choose one of his more famous songs like Blowin’ in the Wind, Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door or Mr. Tambourine Man, But listen to Shelter from the Storm. This is a great song.

Purchase Shelter From the Storm Now

51. Piano Man by Billy Joel

I’ll never forget locking up Sherry Ott’s phone (of  Ottsworld’s ) during the  Mongol Rally.  She and Rick had to listen to our playlist the rest of the 10,000 km and she mentioned, if only we had some Billy Joel. I love Billy Joel, so I felt the same way!

We didn’t have Spotify then, so we couldn’t just magically download Billy Joel in the Gobi desert, but I do agree, he makes for some great road trip music. Yes, he has a lot of hits, but Dave and I both love Piano Man.

It’s another long anthem type song that lets you sing along forever. With verse after verse our voices grow stronger and more powerful in the car until we’re both belting out “Sing us a Song You’re the Piano Man!” no you’re the piano man!

Get it on Amazon

52. Old Man by Neil Young

From Piano Man to Old Man. Niel Young is another iconic Canadian in our list. I could do a Canadian version of Road Trip Songs, but I am afraid half of you wouldn’t know the songs I am talking about.

Anyone else out there know of The Tragically Hip’s  Fireworks ? Our Lady Peace’s  Starseed  or Blue Rodeo’s  Bad Timing ? Didn’t think so.

But we the world knows Neil Young. Even the younger generation knows him thanks to Jimmy Fallon. Old Man is our favourite. What’s yours?

Listen to Old Man Now

Watch Jimmy Fallon and Neil Young on YouTube

53. Lust for Life by Iggy Pop

In the 1990s, I didn’t know a lot about punk rock. Dave and I were into Grunge at the time. But when we went to go see Trainspotters at the theatre, we were introduced to Lust for Life by Iggy Pop.

If this doesn’t get you rocking in the car, nothing will. It is the perfect way to end our road trip songs playlist with an upbeat tune that was made for road tripping.

Lust for Life is on Amazon for just $1.29

54. Radar Love by Golden Earring

Whenever the popular rock and roll radio station in Toronto does a traffic update, they play this song. They also play “I’m a highway star” but Radar Love has the much better groove. I love adding grooving songs to drive to on my playlist.

55. Route 66 by Nat King Cole

It’s a classic and an oldie but goodie. All kinds of people have covered Route 66 but nothing compares to the velvet voice of Nat King Cole. So add this classic road song to your playlist and get your kicks on Route 66.

56. Mustang Sally in the Commitments

When I was younger I was in a band that had the feel of the movie The Commitments. I loved singing back up vocals to Mustang Sally, “Ride Sally Ride. This song has a cool groove that gets you in the mood to drive. (Among other things)

57. The Air Tonight by Phil Collins

Who doesn’t love that drum solo by Phil Collins in the Air Tonight. I’ll never forget hearing it for the first tim eon Miami Vice when Crocket and Tubs were driving down the strip of Miami. Man, this is the best grooving driving song out there.

58. Castle on the Hill by Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran is awesome. There isn’t a song of his I don’t like. But when it comes to songs about driving, this is it. I love the lyrics:

“I’m on my way Driving at ninety down those country lanes Singing to “Tiny Dancer” And I miss the way you make me feel, and it’s real We watched the sunset over the castle on the hill.”

Dave and I totally sing to Tiny Dancer when driving and we always think about driving those back roads in Ireland. How can the locals possibly go 90 on narrow winding roads, and yet they do. they really do! Get Castle on a Hill now

59. Boys of Summer by Don Henley

I admit, I bought a pair of RayBans just because of these lyrics… “Driving in your car with those Wayfarers on baby.”

When I listen to the Boys of Summer, I envision beautiful people driving up and down the sunset strip in Los Angeles. I always have and still do. Check out our guide to the Ultimate California Road Trip

60. Where the Streets have No Name by U2

And let’s end with a song that actually has a street in the name. Well, the Streets have no name here. U2s anthem is the perfect ending to our road tripping song. From the Joshua Tree, that takes us through the California desert, the Streets Have No Name, is a song that will hypnotize you as you get lost in Bono’s dreamy vocals. Just make sure to keep your eyes on the road!

So there you have it. This is our list of our favorite road trip songs. So are you ready to hit the road with the best playlist ever?

We have this on our playlist, what’s on yours? Have you ever taken a road trip going anywhere?

Do you have a song that needs to be included when you go traveling? We’d love to hear in the comments below.

• Best Travel Songs Playlist – It’s different from this!
• Best Travel Movies
• Best Travel Books to Inspire the Wanderer in you
• Best Travel Tips from 20 Years of Traveling

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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81 thoughts on “60 Best Road Trip Songs to Rock the Drive”

Where Chris Rea? There should be at least one song if not 3

Interesting list you have here. I have some recommendations here if you don’t mind.

Raspberries – Go All the Way Jason Isbell – Super 8 Big Star – In the Street Crack the Sky, the best band to come out of Baltimore – Nuclear Apathy Wishbone Ash – (In All My Dreams) You Rescue Me The Bottle Rockets – Radar Gun Danny O’Keefe – Good Time Charlie’s Got the Blues Cross Canadian Ragweed – Fightin’ For

Thanks for the nice collection, will definitely try this!!

Thank you so much for sharing this playlist. I really loved it.

Very nice collection thanks for sharing!!

Blatantly missing: “Roll on Down the Highway” – Bachman-Turner Overdrive

Great selection. Along with ‘Go Your own Way’ and ‘Life is a Highway’, I’d add ‘Peaches’ by Justin Bieber

Nice One! Amazing Playlist! Really love This, thank you for sharing this lovely playlist.

Awesome Playlist !! Love It

Thanks for the song list now it will be very easy for me to go on a road trip.

thanks for the list of songs. I loved the ‘boys of summer’ song so much. Every time when I drive I always play this song.

Superb Collection..i definitely tryy all songs..i am planning to go out . i hope it helps for me. Thank you

Thank you very much for this playlist. I really loved it.

Superb Collection.. Thanks for the lovely post

fantastic article thanks for sharing, I appereciate your work

Thanks so much! Do you have a favourite song to add?

Most of these songs and genres that aren’t rock should be left off the list completely. The best road songs are real rock hands down. The best road song ever is Judas Priest’s “Heading Out To The Highway”. The live version of the Priest Live album from 1987.

You reminded me of songs that I love but forgot about. Thanks for making this playlist, I will definitely be listening to some old favorites as well as some ones you’ve recommended…Old is gold

Thanks for this article but there are many tracks apart from these to make the highway journey a perfect experience.

You reminded me some of the songs that I love but forgotten about it. Thanks for reminding me again, I will definitely be listening to some old favorites as well as someones you’ve recommended. 🙂

Great collections thank you so much for sharing this article.

Really a great collection of songs thanks for sharing hopefully it will help me next time i go out.

Thank you for this wonderful list. It really helped me a lot during my road trip.

Amazing article I really loved it. Thanks for sharing this amazing content.

Hey there Thanks for the Wonderful Playlist.

This is an excellent list. I have a trip to plan here shortly. Hopefully everyone can agree on this playlist.

Yes.. This is an excellent list of songs for road trip

Superb Collection. Thanks for sharing it.

Superb Collection..i definitely tryy all songs..i am planning to go out . i hope it helps for me.

You reminded me of songs that I love but forgot about. Thanks for making this playlist, I will definitely be listening to some old favorites as well as some ones you’ve recommended…Old is gold

Awesome and ‘d add Big Sugar’s “Please Let Me Sleep In Late or My Heart Refuses To Pound”.

The requirement for any good road trip is, as everyone knows, a killer soundtrack. And summer is the optimal time to hit the road and go on an adventure. Whether you’re embarking on a solo trip or gathering with friends and family, you’re going to need some tunes to keep you company along the way. We’ve collated classic driving songs from throughout the eras and assembled the best road trip songs to fire up as you head out on the open road.

Hey, nice post loved it.

You reminded me of songs that I love but forgot about! Thanks for making this playlist, I will definitely be listening to some old favorites as well as some ones you’ve recommended!

Awesome playlist! Added some of these for my next road trip, thankyou so much sir ??

Awesome playlist! Added some of these for my next road trip 🙂 Thanks for the post!

really nyc playlist

awesome..amazing man..!!

Thank you so much!! You don’t know how you helped me. But you helped me a lot. Usually, I get bored while going for a long ride but now it is gonna Amazing. Thank you again.

Hi, You have put together a great collection of songs. It’s true music and travel if combined together can make any trip a great one. I have although written a similar article on my blog but being an Indian I love Bollywood songs. Lately, I have added some modern International songs too on my playlist and I am loving those. I have noticed that you have added many classic old songs, I have listened to a few of them on YouTube and I found them pretty great. Thanks for sharing your list of songs with us. You can check out mine too. It’s a bit different from yours.

Great collection. There is so much good music out there, old and new, the challenge always seems to be keeping the list to a manageable number. Quite a few caught me by surprise. I was a long haul truck driver for many years, and a big music fan, but you learn something new every day. A running joke in my house is that I have been more places with Melissa Etheridge than I have with my wife of 36 years. Submitted for your consideration: You can sleep while I drive-Melissa Etheridge. Radar Love-Golden Earring Roll Me Away- Bob Seger In The Air Tonight- Phil Collins Uneasy Rider-Charlie Daniels Here I go Again-Whitesnake Eastbound and Down-Jerry Reeves This Flight Tonight-Nazareth Fly At Night-Chilliwack The Load Out-Jackson Browne Several dozen more than you will have space for.

Superb Collection..i definitely try all songs..i am planning to go out . i hope it helps for me.

Thank You So Much For The Playlist. Now I Am Gonna Rock The Long Drive.

What an Amazing Wonderful Collection Realy I Love IT 🙂

Great collection man..Enjoy

Nice playlist. I’d include America’s Ventura Highway.

was going to put I’ve Been Everywhere Man on the list and then I decided against it because I have it on another music list on this site. I linked to it in this article and I thought, uh oh, I can’t repeat songs too muc

wonderful collection

Thank you so much for the playlist. I loved all of them. Now am ready to hit the long roads.

I can’t argue with most of the selections on the list, but there are a few blatant omissions:

Born To Be Wild Radar Love Twilight Zone

I don’t know how any music list (regardless of theme) can be complete without a single song by Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Rush, or the Boss, let alone missing all of them???

I love music so much.this is the best article ever about road trip songs playlists. Thank you for nice article.

Excellent collection of songs! I truly needed to recommend this to these amazing people who have done great road trips I’m in touch with and will do in future. One of their trips was 20,000 Kms. Will share it ahead!

Thank you for the great road trip list. It was great.

Thanks Dev & Deb !! You made my day…!! By reading your article I found so much happiness because in coming days I’ll go on long tour with my new car & these road trip songs will rock it all the way … !! 🙂

– Jenny Diana

Jessica by the Allman Brothers is one of the best for me. In the movie of my life, it’s the music that would playduring the scenewhen I take a long road trip or move cross-country. 😛

Great addition, I’ll have to add it to my Spotify.

Ooooooh, so many. Led Zep’s Dazed and Confused (26 minute version), Hendrix’ Voodoo Chile, a lot of Buddy Guy. Yesterday I heard B-52s “Planet Claire”–that is a serious jam.

I am so happy to spend my time here, i am always search exactly like this blog. Thanks for sharing us.

Great choices and I love that you included a Canadian. Life is a Highway. Woot!

Awesome and ‘d add Big Sugar’s “Please Let Me Sleep In Late or My Heart Refuses To Pound”.

Great selection. Along with ‘Go Your own Way’ and ‘Life is a Highway’, I’d add ‘Dance the Night Away’ by Van Halen

Superb!! Never gonna to forget this one!!

I Wanna Be Sedated BY The Ramones

Amazing this post, thanks for share it.

Amazing this one thanks for share it.

Fantastic list, thank you! One addition comes to mind right away: “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane. I mean, it actually has the word highway in it. Classic.

That’s a great addition. I was actually thinking about that song. I love him because he’s also Canadian and I like adding Canadians to the list. But I then decided to leave him out because for me, he was oversaturated (in our neck of the woods anyway) and that song was totally overplayed and now I just can’t listen to it anymore. But most people love it!

I would add “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac.

Great choice! How could I forget that one!

thank you! One addition comes to mind right away: “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane.

LOVE THESE!! Couldn’t agree more about Paradise by the Dashboard Light. I love Meat Loaf, LOL. He was my first concert at age 8 😀 and we played “I Would Do Anything For Love” at our wedding hahaha. Great pics. I love any Bob Dylan or Johnny Cash as well—perfect for an All-American road trip. Also 80’s rock.

Road trips are the best!!

I loved that I would do Anything for Love. It was a great comeback song for him. So what wouldn’t you do? Haha, He says, I would do anything for love, but I won’t do that. HAha. I always think about what is that? 🙂 I was going to put I’ve Been Everywhere Man on the list and then I decided against it because I have it on another music list on this site. I linked to it in this article and I thought, uh oh, I can’t repeat songs too much.

Very good article…this is a very unique article for me. I have never seen this kinda article on any sites… REALLY VERY NICE..CHEERS

Thanks Jessica. We love music so much we decided that we had to put together a list of our playlists. So there you go!

The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist: 60 Songs to Keep You Cruising!

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What’s the one thing that can turn an ordinary road trip into an unforgettable adventure? That’s right, a killer playlist!

Music has the power to set the mood, lift spirits, and make long drives enjoyable. Whether you’re driving alone or with a group, we’ve got you covered with 60 fantastic songs to add to your road trip playlist.

From classic anthems to modern hits, this compilation offers a diverse range of tunes that will keep you grooving and singing along mile after mile. So buckle up, roll down the windows, and let’s hit the road!

• “Sweet Home Alabama” – Lynyrd Skynyrd
• “Don’t Stop Believin'” – Journey
• “Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen
• “Hotel California” – Eagles
• “I Want to Hold Your Hand” – The Beatles
• “Take It Easy” – Eagles
• “Summer of ’69” – Bryan Adams
• “Livin’ on a Prayer” – Bon Jovi
• “All Star” – Smash Mouth
• “Wagon Wheel” – Old Crow Medicine Show
• “Go Your Own Way” – Fleetwood Mac
• “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor
• “Don’t Stop Me Now” – Queen
• “Dancing Queen” – ABBA
• “Brown Eyed Girl” – Van Morrison
• “Africa” – Toto
• “Hey Jude” – The Beatles
• “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and The Waves
• “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” – Whitney Houston
• “Mr. Brightside” – The Killers
• “Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses
• “Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor
• “Drops of Jupiter” – Train
• “American Pie” – Don McLean
• “Walking in Memphis” – Marc Cohn
• “Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond
• “Don’t Stop” – Fleetwood Mac
• “You Give Love a Bad Name” – Bon Jovi
• “Highway to Hell” – AC/DC
• “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
• “Wonderwall” – Oasis
• “Take Me Home, Country Roads” – John Denver
• “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles
• “Hit the Road Jack” – Ray Charles
• “Free Fallin'” – Tom Petty
• “Rocket Man” – Elton John
• “Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Sheryl Crow
• “Life is a Highway” – Tom Cochrane
• “Jessie’s Girl” – Rick Springfield
• “Don’t Stop the Music” – Rihanna
• “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
• “Shut Up and Dance” – Walk the Moon
• “Happy” – Pharrell Williams
• “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” – Justin Timberlake
• “Dynamite” – BTS
• “Lovely Day” – Bill Withers
• “September” – Earth, Wind & Fire
• “Don’t Start Now” – Dua Lipa
• “Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd
• “Wake Me Up” – Avicii
• “Good Vibrations” – The Beach Boys
• “Riptide” – Vance Joy
• “Pumped Up Kicks” – Foster the People
• “Mr. Blue Sky” – Electric Light Orchestra
• “Hey Ya!” – OutKast
• “Hey Soul Sister” – Train
• “Can’t Stop” – Red Hot Chili Peppers
• “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper
• “Walking on a Dream” – Empire of the Sun
• “Happy Together” – The Turtles

Conclusion:

A road trip without music is like a car without wheels – it just doesn’t work! With these 60 songs on your road trip playlist, your journey is sure to be filled with everlasting memories and good vibes.

From timeless classics to modern hits, these tunes encompass various genres and eras to cater to every musical taste. So, grab your shades, roll down the windows, and hit the play button to set the tone for the adventure ahead. Safe travels!

Related posts you might enjoy: THE ULTIMATE GIRL BOSS PLAYLIST SONGS TO HELP YOU MANIFEST

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70 songs to add to your Road Trip Adventure Playlist

#seekersambassador .

Every good road trip needs a good soundtrack. There’s nothing like music to put you in the Zen zone as you cruise through Western Canada, through national parks, over mountain passes, past countryside and city. Just in time for the Junos, we polled the #SeekersAmbassador crew and ZenSeekers readers to create the ultimate road trip adventure playlist for your summer travels. 

You’ll find a mix of musical genres old and new with a good dose of Canadian musical artists to pump you up, chill you out, get in the flow and sing along to as you get out on the open road.

#SeekersAmbassador Ultimate Road Trip Playlist

We posed a simple question to our #SeekersAmbassador crew: what music forms the soundtrack to your roadtripping adventures around Western Canada?

The answers were a mix of classic hits and new bangers, and everything in between, featuring artists as diverse as Dan Mangan, The Funk Hunters, Gogol Bordello, K. Flay, Gramatik, the Tragically Hip and more.  

Press play, then scroll through some specific song suggestions and Zen ideas from the #SeekersAmbassador crew.

Got your own roadtrip faves?

Play along with our #SeekersAmbassador crew! Add your road trip and adventure tracks, too. Tag @ZenSeekers on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter  to submit your recommendations for this 2022 road trip adventure playlist.

Darian Cannard Instagram: @Wyldbc

• Patio Lanterns - Kim MItchell
• Ratatat - Cream on Chrome
• Anything by Eddie Vedder
• Hoppipolla - Sigur Ros (good mountain road trip vibes) 
• Anything by Dan Mangan
• Half Alive - Still Feel

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Darian (@wyldbc)

Heather Gardiner Instagram: @hcgardiner

• No Rain - Blind Melon
• Home for a Rest - Spirit of the West
• Intergalactic - Beastie Boys

Shaun Hutt Instagram: @oldmankingztun

• Bad Habit - The Offspring (explicit)
• Blood in the Cut - K. Flay (explicit)
• Winters Wolves - The Sword
• Smooth Sailin' - Wu Massacre
• Hooked - Notion
• Illusion of Choice - Gramatik
• Flowing - 311
• Anything from the Songs in the key of SHRED playlist on Spotify

Tyler Dixon Instagram: @tcdixon3

• White Lights - The Rural Alberta Advantage
• Wheat Kings - The Tragically Hip

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Tyler Dixon (@tcdixon3)

Jim Barr Instagram: @Doc_Pow

• Making a Fire - Foo Fighters
• Home- Moontricks
• I hate Work- Shred Kelly 
• Hands Up (Raise your Feet) - The Funk Hunters
• These Days - Foo Fighters

Cassandra Gifford Instagram: @caseyy_adventures2

• Flowers Don’t Bloom - Josh Sahunta

Cassandra also added this little IG gem to inspire your travels: 

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Casey (@caseyy_adventures2)

Erin Baird   Instagram: @enrichingerin

• Eloise - Utah Remix penny and sparrow
• Every Day is a Winding Road - Cheryl Crow
• Life is a Highway - Tom Cochrane

Ashley Instagram: @islandgirls.exploring 

• Wild Child - Meadows
• Thunderstruck - AC DC
• Dream on - Arrowsmith
• Comin' Home - City and Color
• Ooo Ohh - Daniel Wesley

Drew Rogers Instagram: @mandrewrogers 

• Express Yourself - Diplo

Drew recently completed a triple play combining summer and winter adventures into a single day - read the story on SnowSeekers.ca  and check out this teaser:

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Drew Rogers (@mandrewrogers)

Stevie Gaultier Instagram @NovemberSeven

• For What it’s Worth - Moontricks w/ Shred Kelly
• White Sky - Vampire Weekend
• Any Funk Hunters mix track
• Time Alone with You - Jacob Collier
• Bored Together - Robyn Froese

Jeremy Derksen Instagram: @thewilderxness

• New Goodbye - Hey Rosetta
• Fight Test - The Flaming Lips
• Spirit - Tim Baker
• Boogie Shoes - KC and the Sunshine Band
• In the Meantime in Pernambuco - Gogol Bordello
• Fool for Love - Lord Huron

Plus, he's got a little extra "pump up" soundtrack music for you here:

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Jeremy Derksen (@thewilderxness)

Share your Zen too!

Tag @ZenSeekers on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter.  

Want to join the #SeekersAmbassador Crew? 

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Visit our #SeekersAmbassador guidelines page to learn more.

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Adventure Soundtrack: The Ultimate Happier Road Trip Songs Playlist

This ultimate road trip songs playlist has all the songs you need for your next adventure soundtrack. Across genres and time, it will fuel you to drive across continents – singing all the way!

We love road trips! What makes them so great is that you can stop wherever, whenever or get completely lost and discover something totally unexpected. You also get to see so much country and sky to inspire further exploration or let your thoughts wander.

You could definitely say that road trips are a Happier Place of ours. What turns road trips from a Happy Place into a Happier Place ? Blasting music for singing along, daydreaming, staying awake and adding that extra dash of joy.

Whatever music you play on a road trip will become your very own adventure soundtrack. It’ll set the mood for the moment. And in the future, those songs will trigger memories of all the experiences you had on your trips.

To make your next road trip even better, we put together an epic playlist of classic travel songs, sing-along-anthems and surely lots of new discoveries for you. Achtung: not all lyrics are “family-friendly”.

Table of Contents

Happier Road Trip! (The Ultimate Happier Place Road Trip Playlist on Spotify)

The embedded Spotify playlist above only shows the first 100 (of over 200) songs. To listen to all of them, click through to The Ultimate Happier Place Road Trip Playlist on Spotify – and make sure to follow the playlist on Spotify, so you can always find it again.

Initially, we created this road trip songs playlist on Spotify – because it’s what we use and because you can listen to all the travel songs for free on Spotify with the basic free Spotify account. However, if you want to download the songs, listen to the playlist in order, and avoid ads, you’d have to pay for a premium Spotify account. So we’re also working on exporting the list to other streaming services to give you more options.

UPDATE 6/24/2020: the Ultimate Happier Road Trip Songs Playlist is now available on YouTube and a few more streaming services. All the new platforms can be found below. We also just added more new songs!

On which other platforms would you like to listen? Leave us a comment or try the live chat at the bottom right of the screen.

The Happier Road Trip! playlist features songs about driving, traveling, leaving, escaping, dreaming, yearning… There are songs dedicated to the journey, the destination, and the adventures along the road.

Some lyrics focus on personal stories about leaving someone behind – about the person waiting at the end of this drive – and even a few about heading home. Occasionally, a guy will just sing about a car. Some of the music simply captures the energy of driving forward; vibes that will make you feel good while you’re covering the miles.

Last but not least, you’ll discover melodies that simply invite you to stare out of the window and let your mind travel freely while you take in the scenery.

The Happier Place Ultimate Road Trip Songs Collection includes music from the last nine decades: from the 1930s (e.g., Robert Johnson “Sweet Home Chicago” and Bing Crosby’s “Don’t Fence Me In”) to recent 2019 releases (e.g., “Go” By The Black Keys, “Sunday Driver” by The Raconteurs.)

The road trip soundtrack also spans many genres: classic rock, R&B, hip hop, Americana, folk, country, indie rock, indie pop, indie… you get the idea. Sing along to songs like “Route 66” performed by Chuck Berry, “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman, “Two Dope Boyz (in a Cadillac)” by Outkast, “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen, “Keep on Truckin'” by Grateful Dead, “Coast To Coast” by Jesus and Mary Chain, “High Horse” by Kacey Musgraves, “Jackson” by Johnny Cash and June Carter, “Traveling Alone” by Jason Isbell, “When We Drive” by Death Cab for Cutie, “M.E.X.I.C.O.” by The Kills, “Hold On, We’re Going Home” by Drake and Majid Jordan, “Drive” by Fu Manchu, “By The Time I Get to Phoenix” by Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, “Heading South” by The Stone Roses, “Go!” by Santigold and Karen O, “The Boys of Summer” by Don Henley and so much more. Unfortunately, we couldn’t include some songs like “Let Me Ride” by Dr. Dre on the Spotify version (because it’s not available on Spotify) – but it’s currently on the YouTube playlist (see below).

It’s probably only natural that a majority of the music comes from the USA and quite a lot even puts the spotlight on America specifically. This may be because we’re in America and are influenced by the local culture. But it’s probably also because America seems to be the birthplace of the automobile road trip – with its vast distances, long roads, cheap gasoline and all the amazing American Road Side Attractions along the way.

Currently, the Happier Road Trip Playlist is about 12 hours long. That’s enough music for a drive from Brooklyn to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, from Denver to the Grand Canyon, from Los Angeles to Arches National Park , from Seattle to Yellowstone, or from Berlin to the Swiss Alps.

Happier Road Trip Songs and Videos on YouTube

To mix things up a bit, the YouTube playlist is not in our curated song order, but sorted by “date added”. Also, the embed here only features the first 200 videos. Click through to the Happier Place Road Trip Playlist on YouTube to watch them all… and dream of your next road trip…

Happier Road Trip Songs on SoundCloud

On SoundCloud, not all songs are available – and unless you have the Premium Version, most songs will only play the first 30 seconds. But if you DO have SoundCloud Go+ this playlist is for you: Ultimate Happier Road Trip Songs Playlist on SoundCloud .

Happier Road Trip Songs on Deezer

We’re just trying to make you happier and your next adventure more awesome! If you’re subscribing to Deezer streaming service, then you can enjoy most of the songs on the Ultimate Happier Road Trip Songs Playlist on Deezer .

Want to save the playlist for a future road trip? Then pin one of these images to Pinterest.

Let’s Inspire Each Other

We’re very open to keep changing this road trip playlist – so it may keep getting longer. So please let us know in the comments, which songs you think we should add! Or just list your favorite road trip or travel-themed songs.

We’re also thinking of making shorter road trip and travel playlists that focus on just one music genre or other specific theme. What do you think – should we?

And if you’ve just returned from a road trip and listened to our playlist, please tell us all about it!

All photos in this post were taken by Luci . Click on an image to see it larger. All photos are available for purchase . The featured photo at the top of the post shows Alaska Highway 1 – somewhere between Homer and Anchorage.

7 thoughts on “ Adventure Soundtrack: The Ultimate Happier Road Trip Songs Playlist ”

I love road trips. Looking forward to going on our road trips later this month. Need to check out the songs on your playlist.

This is such a wonderful playlist! I’m so happy to see one that has some of the oldies on there. Living with a teenager most of what I hear in the car is now unintelligible mumble rap.

Lovely playlist you’ve got there. The fact that the songs are about driving, leaving, escaping and so on gives a lot to think about during road trips…plus it’s 12hours long— even better.

I love taking road trips and I completely agree with you, music makes them so much better! I love turning the radio on and hearing a song I listened to whilst on the road, it takes me back and lets me experience the journey all over again! Music can really act like a bit of magic sometimes! Love the post and the sound track sounds so diverse! A gre at way to liven up the trip!

road trips are special joy to me! I love it, it never fails. Your playlist is nice too, I think music is a nice add always.

I scrolled through the list and it sure is an awesome playlist! I will have to check this out on Spotify. It is a great list of songs to listen to, whether you’re traveling or just dreaming of traveling (that’s me!). I wish you’d include the song Ventura Highway by America.

Hey Kristine! That’s super you like the playlist. And I’m happy to report that “Ventura Highway” by America is on the list. Awesome recommendation! It’s closer towards the end if you play the songs in order. Happy travel-dreaming!

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The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist: Music to Fuel Your Adventures

Road trips are an essential part of the summer experience, offering the freedom to explore new places, make memories with friends and family, and escape the everyday routine. And what better way to enhance the journey than with the perfect playlist to set the mood and make the miles fly by?

The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist is the key to turning a drive into an unforgettable adventure. With the right mix of feel-good tunes, sing-along classics, and road trip anthems, this playlist will energize you, uplift you, and keep you entertained for hours on end.

To start your road trip off on the right foot, begin with some high-energy, upbeat tracks that will get you in the mood for adventure. Songs like “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane, “On The Road Again” by Willie Nelson, and “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen are perfect for setting the tone and getting you pumped up for the journey ahead.

As you settle into the rhythm of the road, mix in some classic sing-along hits that everyone in the car can enjoy. Songs like “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey, “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond, and “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen are timeless favorites that never fail to bring people together and create memories.

For those long stretches of highway where you just want to cruise and relax, add some mellow, easy-listening tunes to your playlist. Songs like “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman, “Take It Easy” by The Eagles, and “The Weight” by The Band will serve as the perfect backdrop for taking in the scenery and enjoying the journey.

And of course, no road trip playlist would be complete without a few guilty pleasures thrown in. Whether it’s a cheesy pop song from the 90s or a guilty pleasure guilty pleasure guilty pleasure, these tracks are guaranteed to put a smile on your face and make the miles fly by.

So before you hit the road this summer, be sure to put together the Ultimate Road Trip Playlist to fuel your adventures and make your journey one to remember. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, the right mix of music can turn a simple drive into an epic road trip that you’ll never forget.

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Travel Tips and Trivia

Last Updated: January 23, 2024

120 Best Songs about Adventure [Travel Song Playlist Ideas!]

Trying to find the best songs about adventure to inspire wanderlust and take on the road with you? Check out this long list of 120 adventure songs and travel songs!

Danny Newman

Looking for some new songs about adventure to listen to on the road? I hope this list helps!

Some things just go well together, right?

Like salt and pepper. Or peanut butter and jelly.

Each respective element’s amazing in and of itself. But they’re made even better when you combine the two!

I think the same logic applies to music and travel .

Life on the road’s almost always improved when you have travel songs on in the background (or via your headphones)!

Likewise, at home, few things are more effective at inspiring a sense of wanderlust than the best songs about adventure.

…Or, for that matter, at transporting you instantly back in time to past journeys when they play over the radio.

All things considered, it seems to me that music and travel go hand in hand.

And, thankfully, talented musicians of past and present have blessed our ear holes with some epic adventure songs to take with us on our trips!

Want to discover a big long list of the best songs for travel? Keep reading for 120 songs about travel and adventure.

Here we go, then: 120 adventure songs for travellers!

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120 Best Adventure Songs, Travel Songs, and Songs About Journeys

Here we go, then: 120 of the best songs about travel and adventure, divided into sections to make everything a little more manageable!

Classic Songs About Adventure (with Lyrics!)

I decided to start with 20 classic adventure songs that we all know and love! Whether you’re looking for the perfect road trip playlist or a soundtrack for your next adventure, they’re sure to go down a treat.

1. Fly Away – Lenny Kravitz

I wish that I could fly Into the sky So very high Just like a dragonfly

I’d fly above the trees Over the seas in all degrees To anywhere I please, oh

I want to get away I want to fly away Yeah, yeah, yeah

Click here to listen to it on YouTube!

2. Born to Be Wild – Steppenwolf

Yeah, darlin’ Gonna make it happen Take the world in a love embrace Fire all of your guns at once And explode into space

Like a true nature child We were born Born to be wild We can climbed so high I never wanna die Born to be wild Born to be wild

3. Send Me On My Way – Rusted Root

Well, I would like to hold my little hand And we will run, we will, we will crawl, we will I would like to hold my little hand And we will run, we will, we will crawl

Send me on my way (on my way) Send me on my way (on my way) Send me on my way (on my way)

4. On the Road Again – Willie Nelson

And I can’t wait to get on the road again On the road again Goin’ places that I’ve never been Seein’ things that I may never see again And I can’t wait to get on the road again

On the road again Like a band of gypsies we go down the highway We’re the best of friends Insisting that the world keep turning our way And our way Is on the road again

5. Have Love, Will Travel – The Sonics

Have love Whoa, baby, will travel I said, yeah, yeah, have love Woah, baby, will travel I said, if you need loving then Mm, hmm, I’ll travel Woah!

6. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Big wheels keep on turnin’ Carry me home to see my kin Singin’ songs about the south-land I miss Alabamy once again and I think it’s a sin, yes

Sweet home Alabama Where the skies are so blue Sweet home Alabama Lord I’m comin’ home to you

7. I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – The Proclaimers

But I would walk five hundred miles And I would walk five hundred more Just to be the man who walked a thousand miles To fall down at your door

8. Fast Car – Tracy Chapman

You got a fast car I want a ticket to anywhere Maybe we make a deal Maybe together we can get somewhere Any place is better Starting from zero got nothing to lose Maybe we’ll make something Me, myself, I got nothing to prove

9. Free – Donavon Frankenreiter

We could let this love be the fading sky Or we could drift all night until the new sunrise Pass me a drink or maybe two One for me and one for you

And we’ll be free Free Free Free

Some of the best travel songs have been around forever and a day!

10. Island in the Sun – Weezer

When you’re on a holiday You can’t find the words to say All the things that come to you And I wanna feel it too

On an island in the sun We’ll be playin’ and havin’ fun And it makes me feel so fine I can’t control my brain

11. California Dreamin’ – The Mamas & Papas

All the leaves are brown (all the leaves are brown) And the sky is gray (and the sky is gray) I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk) On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day) I’d be safe and warm (I’d be safe and warm) If I was in LA (if I was in LA) California dreamin’ (California dreamin’) On such a winter’s day

12. Carry on Wayward Son – Kansas

Carry on, my wayward son There’ll be peace when you are done Lay your weary head to rest Don’t you cry no more

Once I rose above the noise and confusion Just to get a glimpse beyond this illusion I was soaring ever higher But I flew too high

13. Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole

Somewhere over the rainbow Way up high And the dreams that you dream of Once in a lullaby, oh

Somewhere over the rainbow Bluebirds fly And the dreams that you dream of Dreams really do come true-ooh-ooh

14. A Horse with No Name – America

I’ve been through the desert On a horse with no name It felt good to be out of the rain In the desert, you can remember your name ‘Cause there ain’t no one for to give you no pain La, la, la, la, la, la La, la, la, la, la, la La, la, la, la, la, la La, la, la, la, la, la

15. Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen

In the day, we sweat it out on the streets Of a runaway American dream At night, we ride through mansions of glory In suicide machines Sprung from cages out on Highway 9 Chrome wheeled, fuel injected and steppin’ out over the line Oh, baby this town rips the bones from your back It’s a death trap, it’s a suicide rap We gotta get out while we’re young `Cause tramps like us, baby we were born to run Yes, girl, we were

16. The Passenger – Iggy Pop

I am the passenger I stay under glass I look through my window so bright I see the stars come out tonight I see the bright and hollow sky Over the city’s ripped back sky And everything looks good tonight

17. Kokomo – The Beach Boys

Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take you to Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama Key Largo, Montego, baby why don’t we go Oh I want to take you down to Kokomo, we’ll get there fast and then we’ll take it slow That’s where we want to go, way down in Kokomo

18. Down Under – Men At Work

Traveling in a fried-out Kombi On a hippie trail, head full of zombie I met a strange lady, she made me nervous She took me in and gave me breakfast

And she said:

Do you come from a land down under? Where women glow and men plunder Can’t you hear, can’t you hear the thunder? You better run, you better take cover

19. Africa – Toto

I hear the drums echoing tonight But she hears only whispers of some quiet conversation She’s coming in, 12:30 flight The moonlit wings reflect the stars that guide me towards salvation I stopped an old man along the way Hoping to find some old forgotten words or ancient melodies He turned to me as if to say, “Hurry boy, it’s waiting there for you”

20. I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash

I’ve been everywhere, man. I’ve been everywhere, man. Crossed the desert’s bare, man. I’ve breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel I’ve had my share, man. I’ve been everywhere.

Some of the best adventure songs I listen to are decades old!

Old-School Adventure songs

Like the classics above, many of my favourite travel songs come from way back in the day! They might be 30, 40, or 50+ years old, but they never fail to spark my wanderlust and get me exciting about travelling! I hope they do the same for you.

21. Beautiful Day – U2

22. Hells Bells – AC/DC

23. Sittin’ On the Dock of the Bay – Otis Redding

24. Norwegian Wood – The Beatles

25. Leaving On a Jet Plane – Peter, Paul, and Mary

26. Take Me Home, Country Roads – John Denver

27. Life Is a Highway – Rascal Flatts

28. Crosstown Traffic – Jimi Hendrix

29. Forever Young – Alphaville

30. Eagles – Hotel California

31. Ain’t No Sunshine – Bill Withers

32. Golden Brown – The Stranglers

33. Truckin’ – Grateful Dead

34. Ramblin’ Man – The Allman Brothers Band

35. Back In Black – AC/DC

36. In the Summertime – Mungo Jerry

37. What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong

38. Riders on the Storm – The Doors

39. Graceland – Paul Simon

40. Mr. Blue Sky – Electric Light Orchestra

If you’re into rock, indie, metal, or folk music, then make sure you check out the following 20 songs for travel!

Indie, Folk, Rock, & Metal Songs for travellers

If you prefer listening to hard rock, heavy metal, indie tunes, or folky ballads, then this section’s for you! Here’s a selection of epic songs for travel from each of these diverse genres.

41. Seven Nation Army – The White Stripes

42. Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac

43. Time of Your Life – Green Day

44. Wish You Were Here – Incubus

45. Hopeless Wanderer – Mumford & Sons

46. These Days – Foo Fighters

47. Here It Goes Again – OK Go

48. Take Me Out – Franz Ferdinand

49. Drive – Fu Manchu

50. Borders – Feeder

51. No Sleep Till Brooklyn – Beastie Boys

52. Like a Rolling Stone – Bob Dylan

53. Show Me How to Live – Audioslave

54. Wash It All Away – Five Finger Death Punch

55. My Favourite Game – The Cardigans

56. Wayfaring Strangers – Johnny Cash

57. Learn to Fly – Foo Fighters

58. Anywhere – Passenger

59. Shotgun – George Ezra

60. Not Done Yet – Sticky Fingers

After some of the best songs about travelling from recent times? The next section should do the trick!

Pop & Hip-Hop Songs about Travel and Adventure

Heads up, this section has a definite emphasis on recent pop music, but I threw in a couple of hip-hop tracks for good measure! With positive vibes and lyrics about making the most of life, these adventure songs should go well on any travel playlist you’re trying to put together.

61. What We Live For – American Authors

62. One Day/Reckoning Song – Asaf Avidan

63. Budapest – George Ezra

64. On Top of the World – Imagine Dragons

65. Malibu – Miley Cyrus

66. Summertime – Will Smith & DJ Jazzy Jeff

67. I Woke Up In a Car – Something Corporate

68. Drops of Jupiter – Train

69. New York – Alicia Keys

70. Midnight City – M83

71. Adventure of a Lifetime – Coldplay

72. Around the World – Daft Punk

73. Oceans Away – Arizona

74. Get Out – CHVRCHES

75. Thunder – Imagine Dragons

76. The Adventure – Angels & Airwaves

77. Live Before I Die – Mike Posner

78. Best Day Ever – Mac Miller

79. Rather Be – Clean Bandit

80. I’m Leaving – Mos Def

Chill songs about travel always do down a treat…

Chill Songs about Travel

I had two playlists on the old iPod I used to take travelling: “Chilled” and “Less Chilled”! If you’re looking for a laid-back song about travel, then this section should do the trick.

81. Follow the Sun – Xavier Rudd

82. Old Man – Neil Young

83. Kongos – Traveling On

84. Society – Eddie Vedder

85. Motoring Home – Sweet Baboo

86. Fly Away With Me – Tom Walker

87. Renegades – X Ambassadors

88. Porcelain – Moby

89. Sleep On the Floor – Lumineers

90. I Follow Rivers – Lykke Li

91. Safe Travels – Lisa Hannigan

92. Wild World – Cat Stevens

93. Wandering Eye – Fat Freddy’s Drop

94. Cycling Trivialities – Jose Gonzalez

95. Promise – Ben Howard

96. A Walk – Tycho

97. Pepita – Calexico

98. Nantes – Beirut

99. Wild Horses – The Rolling Stones

100. Sailing – Christopher Cross

Here are some of my personal favourite songs about travel and adventure to finish!

Best Songs for Travelling (My Personal Favourites!)

Last but not least, I thought I’d assemble 20 of my favourite songs for travelling. The coming tracks are a mix of different genres, styles, and vibes. For whatever reason, though, each one gets me raring to hit the road. I hope you like them!

101. Electric Feel – MGMT

102. Sweet Disposition – Temper Trap

103. Road Trippin’ – Red Hot Chili Peppers

104. Step Out – Jose Gonzalez

105. Travelling – Paper Lions

106. We Are the People – Empire of the Sun

107. Dirty Paws – Of Monsters and Men

108. Big Jet Plane – Angus and Julia Stone

109. You Only Live Once – The Strokes

110. Jungle – Tash Sultana

111. Home – Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros

112. Ocean – John Butler

113. Drive – Oh Wonder

114. Welcome Home – Radical Face

115. Traveller – Mungo’s Hi Fi

116. Chapinero – Thornato

117. Riptide – Vance Joy

118. Me Gustas Tu – Manu Chao

119. California – Phantom Planet

120. Permanent Holiday – Mike Love

Listen to These Songs about Adventure

I love listening to music when I travel.

It doesn’t matter whether I’m on an epic road trip with friends, waiting around in an airport, on a long bus journey, or whatever. I’ll turn on the radio, switch on the speakers, or put my headphones on to lose myself in a travel song or two.

However, there’s no denying that listening to music on the road (or at home, for that matter) is ten times better when you’re playing particular travel songs !

Some tracks just seem purpose-written to complement the travelling experience, evoke a pulsating sense of wanderlust, or make you nostalgic for bygone trips.

Have you been searching for the best songs about adventure that tick these types of boxes? Well, I hope this list of 120 adventure songs has helped!

Keep them in mind, download them to your phone, and enjoy these songs for travellers whenever you’re next away.

Do you have any other suggestions that you think should be on this list? Drop a comment below and I’ll be sure to add it in.

7 Road Trip Playlists to Sing Along To

Home > Specials > 7 Road Trip Playlists to Sing Along To

The right playlist can transform your road trip into a memorable adventure! Thinking about that, we’ve curated a selection of playlists that cater to diverse tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Get ready to turn up the volume, hit the road, and let the music be your companion on the ultimate road trip experience!

7 best road trip playlists

Ready to soundtrack your epic adventure? Dive into our curated playlists for every taste – from the classics to the current pop hits, we’ve got you covered!

Rock Road Trip playlist

Packed with legendary tunes from iconic bands and artists, this playlist sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure on the open road. The Rock Road Trip Playlist features classics from the likes of the Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin, and it’s the perfect companion for a journey filled with head-nodding rhythms and sing-along moments!

80’s Classics Road Trip Playlist

This handpicked compilation is a musical time machine, transporting you back to the heyday of synth-pop, rock anthems, and infectious pop hits. From Billy Idol’s “Eyes Without a Face” to Duran Duran’s “Ordinary World”, this playlist is a journey in itself, offering a perfect blend of sing-along favorites to fuel your adventure!

Indie and Alternative Road Trip Playlist

Featuring indie anthems such as “What You Know” and alternative gems like “Where Is My Mind?”, this playlist promises to set the perfect tone for your journey. Whether you’re a fan of indie rock’s infectious energy or the eclectic sounds of the alternative scene, this carefully curated selection is sure to strike a chord!

Y2K Road Trip Playlist

This musical time capsule is a delightful journey through the early 2000s, filled with iconic hits that will transport you back to the days of flip phones and denim everything. From Britney Spears to the Black Eyed Peas, this playlist is a perfect blend of feel-good tunes that will have you singing along in no time!

R&B Hits Road Trip Playlist

Immerse yourself in a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary R&B tunes that are not only perfect for singing along but also setting the mood for a smooth journey. From iconic anthems by Sade and Erykah Badu, to fresh hits by Jorja Smith and Solange, this playlist promises to add a touch of sophistication and groove to your travels! 

Pop Hits Road Trip Playlist

From chart-topping anthems to guilty pleasures, including Harry Styles and Ariana Grande, these songs are the perfect companions for singing along as you cruise through landscapes and create lasting memories. So, buckle up and get ready to turn your car into a mobile karaoke stage with this dynamic playlist that perfectly captures the spirit of the open road!

Going to the Coast Road Trip Playlist

 Picture yourself driving with the windows down, singing along to the sound of waves crashing and seagulls in the distance. Join us as we embark on a musical odyssey, featuring “The Tide Is High” by Blondie and “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac, to elevate your travel experience!

Frequently asked questions

What songs should i play on a road trip.

Embarking on a road trip is an exciting adventure, and curating the perfect playlist can elevate the entire journey. Start with feel-good classics, such as “It’s Raining Again”, and then mix in some indie gems or the latest chart-toppers to keep things fresh and diverse. Don’t forget to include personal favorites that resonate with your travel companions, creating a soundtrack that becomes a shared memory!

How do you make a good road trip playlist?

Creating the perfect road trip playlist is an art that combines personal taste with the dynamics of the journey! Include a diverse range of genres and artists to cater to different moods and preferences, invite fellow road trippers to contribute their favorite songs, add high-energy tracks for moments when you need an extra boost, and, most importantly: ensure that your playlist is available offline, especially if you’re venturing through areas with spotty or no internet connection.

How long should a road trip playlist be?

Consider the total time you’ll spend on the road and aim to create a playlist that covers the entire trip without excessive repetition. This allows for a dynamic and enjoyable listening experience, keeping everyone engaged throughout the journey.

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60 Fun Songs to Add to Your Road Trip Playlist

February 3, 2023 · Travel

This post lists some of the best songs to add to your road trip playlist! Most of these are high-energy, fun songs to keep you energized and excited about the road ahead.

Going on a solo road trip can be such an empowering experience, giving you the freedom to explore the world at your own pace. A solid road trip playlist is essential for keeping you entertained and motivated during long hours on the road. In this post, explore a handpicked selection of the best road trip songs for a solo adventure.

The Best Kind of Music for Road Trips

Long road trips can be draining, making it tough to stay awake during long days of driving. The right road trip jams can make all the difference in keeping you energized and focused on the road. Upbeat, energetic music is ideal for staying alert on the road since it can increase your heart rate and wake up your brain. Think punchy pop songs, fun classic rock, hip-hop bops, or rock anthems – basically anything with a high-energy beat and fast-paced rhythm.

Singing along to your favorite songs can also help! Belting out to your faves is a physical and mental workout that will help keep you alert. The key is to find what works for you and keeps you feeling excited for your adventure. The perfect road trip playlist will make your journey less monotonous and keep you pumped and ready to tackle the road ahead.

Read More: How to Plan A Solo Road Trip With A Dog

Road Trip Playlist Ideas

Whether you’re in the mood for introspective ballads, uplifting anthems, or sing-along classics, you’ll find the perfect tune to add to your playlist. So buckle up, turn up the volume, and let the music take you on a journey like never before!

• Life is a Highway – Tom Cochrane
• Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen
• On the Road Again – Willy Nelson
• Born to Be Wild – Steppenwolf
• Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
• Highway to Hell – AC/DC
• Hit the Road Jack – Ray Charles
• Route 66 – Chuck Berry
• Hotel California – Eagles
• Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
• Here I Go Again – Whitesnake
• Free Fallin’ – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
• Road Trippin’ – Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Drive – Incubus
• Everyday is a Winding Road – Sheryl Crow
• Shut Up and Drive – Rihanna
• Fly Away – Lenny Kravitz
• Good to Be Alive – Andy Grammar
• Semi-Charmed Life – Third Eye Blind
• So Good – B.o.B.
• Livin’ the Vida Loca – Ricky Martin
• The Good Part – AJR
• Dream On – Aerosmith
• I Can’t Drive 55 – Sammy Hagar
• Day Tripper – The Beatles
• Another One Bites the Dust – Queen
• I Wanna Dance with Somebody – Whitney Houston
• Little Red Corvette – Prince
• Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson Featuring Bruno Mars
• Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked – Cage the Elephant
• Take it Easy – Eagles
• Back In Black – AC/DC
• Jack & Diane – John Mellencamp
• The Stroke – Billy Squier
• Right Round – Flo Rida
• Route 66 – Rolling Stones
• The Air Tonight – Phil Collins
• Where the Streets Have No Names – U2
• All-Star – Smashmouth
• Paradise City – Guns N’ Roses
• Backstreets Back – Backstreet Boys
• What I Got – Sublime
• Feeling Good (Cover) – Michael Buble
• Sugar, We’re Going Down – Fall Out Boy
• Seven Nation Army – the White Stripes
• Beverly Hills – Weezer
• Welcome to the Jungle – Guns N’ Roses
• I Love Rock’n Roll – Joan Jet
• Man I Feel Like a Woman – Shania Twain
• I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor
• Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
• Cum on Feel the Noize – Quiet Riot
• Wannabe – Spice Girls
• Old Time Rock and Roll – Bob Seger
• Can’t Stop the Feeling! – Justin Timberlake
• Radar Love – Golden Earring
• School’s Out – Alice Cooper
• Love Shack – the B-52s
• Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond
• Lonely is the Night – Billy Squier

Read More: 14 Must-Have Dog Essentials for the Perfect Road Trip

Music can be a huge contributor to the overall vibes of your road trip. The songs listed in this post are just a starting point for building your perfect road trip playlist, full of upbeat and fun tracks to keep you entertained on the road. Don’t forget to switch up the playlist with new songs every now and then to keep things fresh and exciting.

What do you think of this list? Are there any songs you think are an absolute must for everyone’s road trip playlist? Please share in the comments!

Happy travels!

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The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist To Inspire Wanderlust

Introduction.

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road or embarking on a new adventure with the perfect soundtrack playing in the background. Music has a way of capturing the essence of travel, evoking feelings of wanderlust, and transporting us to different places and times. Whether you’re exploring new cities, trekking through remote landscapes, or simply daydreaming about your next journey, having a curated playlist of travel songs is essential.

In this article, we have compiled the ultimate travel songs playlist that will inspire wanderlust and enhance your travel experience. From uplifting and energetic tunes to reflective and soulful melodies, we’ve got you covered. We’ve categorized the songs into different sections to suit various moods and preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

So, whether you’re embarking on an epic road trip, planning a backpacking adventure, or simply looking for some musical inspiration to fuel your wanderlust, get ready to dive into the world of travel songs that will transport you to new destinations and ignite your sense of adventure.

Section 1: Upbeat and Energetic Travel Songs

When you’re in the mood for an adventure and need a burst of energy, upbeat travel songs are the perfect choice. These songs are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping and have you singing along in no time.

1. “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson: A classic road trip anthem, this upbeat country song will have you dreaming of hitting the highway and exploring new horizons.

2. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston: This energetic song will make you want to dance your way through new cities and let loose as you experience the joy of travel.

3. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay: With its catchy beat and uplifting lyrics, this song is perfect for those moments when you want to embrace the thrill and adventure of exploring new places.

4. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves: This feel-good song is a reminder to embrace the sunshine, soak up the positive vibes, and make the most of every travel experience.

5. “Roam” by The B-52’s: This fun and upbeat track will have you singing along and dreaming of roaming the world with a carefree spirit.

6. “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys: No travel playlist is complete without a song from The Beach Boys. “Good Vibrations” is all about spreading positivity and capturing the essence of a sunny, fun-filled adventure.

7. “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen: This iconic Queen song is an anthem for living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment. It’s the perfect soundtrack for your next travel adventure.

8. “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon: This infectious pop-rock tune will have you dancing and singing along, reminding you to let go of your worries and embrace the joy of exploring new destinations.

9. “Holiday” by Madonna: With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, “Holiday” will transport you to a carefree vacation state of mind, making it a must-have on your travel playlist.

10. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen: This iconic rock anthem embodies the spirit of adventure and the freedom of the open road. It’s the perfect song to kick-start your travel journey.

These upbeat and energetic travel songs are sure to get your spirits high and set the tone for an unforgettable adventure. So, turn up the volume and let the music guide you on your next travel escapade.

Section 2: Reflective and Soulful Travel Songs

Traveling often evokes a sense of introspection and self-discovery. Reflective and soulful travel songs provide the perfect soundtrack for those quiet moments of contemplation as you journey to new destinations. These songs capture the emotional depth and transformative power of travel.

1. “Wild World” by Cat Stevens: This timeless classic is a heartfelt reminder of the bittersweet nature of leaving familiar places behind and embracing the unknown.

2. “The Long and Winding Road” by The Beatles: With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, this song beautifully reflects the introspective nature of travel and the emotional journey it can take us on.

3. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman: This soul-stirring song tells a story of longing for escape and the desire for a better life, resonating with anyone yearning for adventure and change.

4. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty: As you embark on your travel journey, this introspective song reminds you to let go of inhibitions and embrace the freedom and unknown that lay ahead.

5. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen: With its poetic lyrics and soulful melody, this song captures the emotional depth and spiritual aspect of travel, offering a sense of solace and hope.

6. “Learning to Fly” by Tom Petty: This introspective anthem is a reflection on personal growth and the challenges that come with leaving your comfort zone and spreading your wings.

7. “Fast Car” by Jonas Blue ft. Dakota: A modern rendition of Tracy Chapman’s iconic song, this version adds an electronic touch while still capturing the longing for escape and the desire for new experiences.

8. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd: This soulful and melancholic song reflects on the fleeting nature of time and the longing for human connection even while exploring new places.

9. “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros: With its warm and soulful sound, this song encapsulates the feeling of finding a sense of belonging and home within the journey of travel.

10. “Take It Easy” by Eagles: This laid-back and reflective song reminds us to take a step back, appreciate the beauty of our surroundings, and embrace the simplicity of life on the road.

These reflective and soulful travel songs will accompany you on your journey, inviting moments of self-reflection and providing emotional depth to your travel experiences. So, sit back, relax, and let the music guide you on your inner exploration while you explore the world.

Section 3: Wanderlust-themed Pop Songs

Pop music has a way of capturing the spirit of adventure, and wanderlust-themed pop songs are perfect for getting you in the mood to explore the world. These catchy tunes will have you singing along and daydreaming about your next travel destination.

1. “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield: This empowering anthem encourages you to seize the moment and embrace the unknown as you embark on new adventures.

2. “Counting Stars” by OneRepublic: With its catchy melody and reflective lyrics, this song reminds us to cherish every moment and appreciate the wonders of the world.

3. “Wake Me Up” by Avicii: The upbeat tunes of this song are perfect for embracing new experiences and navigating the world with a sense of excitement and curiosity.

4. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus: This inspiring ballad serves as a reminder to persevere through challenges and embrace the journey, no matter how difficult.

5. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: This timeless classic is the ultimate anthem for following your dreams and finding your way in the world.

6. “Firework” by Katy Perry: With its uplifting message, this pop hit serves as a reminder to let your light shine and embrace your uniqueness as you explore new horizons.

7. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake: This infectious pop song will have you dancing along and feeling the joy of travel as you embrace the rhythm of new places.

8. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas: This upbeat and energetic track captures the excitement and anticipation of a great night out or an adventure-filled day.

9. “Adventure” by Cheat Codes ft. Evan Gartner: With its vibrant beats and lyrics, this pop song is a perfect reminder to live life to the fullest and embark on new adventures.

10. “Roar” by Katy Perry: This empowering anthem encourages you to find your voice, step out of your comfort zone, and explore the world fearlessly.

These wanderlust-themed pop songs will add a sense of fun and excitement to your travel experiences. So, turn up the volume, sing along, and let the music inspire you as you embark on your next adventure.

Section 4: Classic Travel Songs

Classic travel songs have a timeless appeal and evoke a sense of nostalgia. These iconic tunes have been the soundtrack to countless journeys and continue to inspire wanderlust in travelers around the world. Let’s take a look at some of the must-have classic travel songs that should be on your playlist.

1. “Hotel California” by Eagles: This legendary song tells a captivating story of a traveler’s journey to the mysterious Hotel California, making it a true classic in the realm of travel music.

2. “Route 66” by Chuck Berry: As one of the most famous highways in the United States, Route 66 has inspired countless road trips. This song captures the essence of the iconic route and the freedom of the open road.

3. “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash: This catchy tune lists off numerous locations, igniting a sense of wanderlust and curiosity about the vast world just waiting to be explored.

4. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd: While specifically referring to Alabama, this song is an anthem for all travelers, reminding us of the longing for a place to call home no matter where our journey takes us.

5. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver: This heartfelt ballad celebrates the beauty of West Virginia and resonates with anyone yearning for the familiarity of home and the peacefulness of the countryside.

6. “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf: Rev up your engines and hit the road with this iconic biker anthem that embodies the spirit of adventure, freedom, and a wild rebellious nature.

7. “California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & The Papas: This soulful song captures the yearning for warm California sunshine and paints a vivid picture of the longing for a change of scenery.

8. “Proud Mary” by Creedence Clearwater Revival: The energetic rhythm and powerful vocals of this song will have you picturing yourself cruising down a river, ready to explore new horizons.

9. “Rocky Mountain High” by John Denver: This melodic classic transports listeners to the majestic Rocky Mountains, evoking a sense of awe and reverence for the beauty of nature.

10. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver: A song about saying goodbye and embarking on an adventure, it captures the mix of excitement and sadness that comes with leaving behind loved ones.

These classic travel songs have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with travelers of all generations. So, add them to your playlist and let the nostalgia and wanderlust wash over you as you explore new destinations.

Section 5: Indie and Alternative Travel Songs

Indie and alternative travel songs offer a unique and often introspective take on the joys and challenges of travel. These songs have a distinctive sound and lyrical depth that resonate with those seeking a more offbeat and authentic travel experience. Let’s explore some of the must-have indie and alternative travel songs for your playlist.

1. “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers: This uplifting folk-pop tune is perfect for road trips and sing-alongs, capturing the spirit of adventure and the simple joys of exploring new places.

2. “Flume” by Bon Iver: With its ethereal sound and poetic lyrics, this indie folk song evokes a sense of tranquility and reflection, making it perfect for peaceful moments on your journey.

3. “Riptide” by Vance Joy: This catchy indie pop song embodies the carefree and whimsical nature of travel, conjuring images of sunny beaches and carefree adventures.

4. “No Cars Go” by Arcade Fire: With its anthemic sound and soaring chorus, this indie rock track captures the rebellious spirit and desire for escape that often accompanies travel.

5. “Young Folks” by Peter Bjorn and John: This indie pop gem is a catchy and nostalgic ode to the youthful spirit and sense of adventure that travel brings.

6. “Walcott” by Vampire Weekend: With its energetic pace and infectious melodies, this indie rock song will have you dreaming of exploring vibrant cities and immersing yourself in new cultures.

7. “Island in the Sun” by Weezer: This alternative rock classic brings to mind visions of idyllic island getaways and carefree days spent soaking up the sun.

8. “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons: With its anthemic sound and positive message, this alternative rock song encourages you to seize the moment and pursue your dreams, wherever they may lead.

9. “Simple Song” by The Shins: This indie rock anthem is a delightful tribute to the joy of traveling with loved ones, capturing the essence of creating unforgettable memories on the road.

10. “Don’t Let It Get You Down” by Johnnyswim: This indie folk track is a reminder to stay resilient and positive in the face of challenges, perfect for those moments when travel throws unexpected curveballs your way.

These indie and alternative travel songs provide a unique and introspective perspective on the wonders and challenges of travel. So, dive into their atmospheric sounds and thought-provoking lyrics as you embark on your next adventure.

Section 6: Folk and Acoustic Travel Songs

Folk and acoustic travel songs have a way of capturing the essence of the journey with their raw and organic sound. These songs often tell stories of wanderlust, longing, and the beauty of nature. Let’s explore some of the must-have folk and acoustic travel songs for your playlist.

1. “The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel: This timeless folk ballad tells a tale of resilience and perseverance, resonating with travelers who navigate through life’s challenges on their journey.

2. “Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell: With its melodic guitar and iconic lyrics, this song reflects on the importance of preserving nature’s beauty and serves as a reminder to appreciate the world around us.

3. “I Will Wait” by Mumford & Sons: This anthemic folk-rock song embodies the sense of anticipation and patience that comes with waiting for new adventures and exploring unknown paths.

4. “Country Roads” by John Denver: A classic folk song that celebrates the beauty of West Virginia, it evokes a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the countryside.

5. “The Cave” by Mumford & Sons: This folk-inspired track is a reminder to embrace vulnerability and to keep exploring and discovering the depths of the world, both externally and internally.

6. “Rhythm of Love” by Plain White T’s: This acoustic pop song captures the joy and excitement of falling in love with a place or a person during your travel adventures.

7. “Sweet Baby James” by James Taylor: This soothing acoustic ballad paints a picture of open roads and starry nights, perfectly capturing the tranquility and freedom that travel brings.

8. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” by Elton John: This folk-infused song speaks to the longing for something more, urging us to let go of materialistic desires and venture onto a path of self-discovery.

9. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman: With its poignant storytelling and stripped-down acoustic sound, this song captures the dreams of escape and the yearning for a better life that travel often represents.

10. “Fire and Rain” by James Taylor: This introspective folk song reflects on the ups and downs of life’s journey, reminding us to find strength and resilience through the storms we encounter.

These folk and acoustic travel songs convey the beauty and emotions that travel can evoke. So, sit back, relax, and let their soothing melodies and thoughtful lyrics accompany you on your next adventure.

Section 7: International and World Music Travel Songs

When it comes to capturing the spirit of travel, international and world music travel songs take us on a global journey through their vibrant and diverse sounds. These songs showcase the rich cultural tapestry of different countries and invite us to explore the world through music. Let’s immerse ourselves in some of the must-have international and world music travel songs for your playlist.

1. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” by Shakira: This catchy global anthem, released for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, celebrates the unity and diversity of Africa, serving as an infectious invitation to embrace the rhythm and energy of the continent.

2. “Bailando” by Enrique Iglesias ft. Descemer Bueno, Gente De Zona: This Latin pop hit invites listeners to embrace the joy and passion of Latin dance and culture, providing a vibrant backdrop for your travels.

3. “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega: This lively and upbeat song combines elements of mambo, samba, and other Latin rhythms, transporting listeners to a tropical paradise with its infectious melodies.

4. “Clandestino” by Manu Chao: This multilingual track combines reggae, rumba, and folk influences, reflecting on the experiences of migrants and serving as a reminder of the power of music to transcend borders.

5. “Ai Se Eu Te Pego” by Michel Teló: This Brazilian hit became a worldwide sensation with its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus, capturing the spirit of celebration and joy that accompanies the vibrant Brazilian culture.

6. “Dil Se Re” by A.R. Rahman: This mesmerizing Indian song blends Hindi and Tamil lyrics with a fusion of traditional and contemporary music, reminding us of the beauty and diversity of India.

7. “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee: One of the most successful Spanish-language songs in history, this reggaeton hit invites listeners to embrace the laid-back and vibrant spirit of Puerto Rico.

8. “Kiss the Rain” by Yiruma: This haunting instrumental piece by the South Korean pianist is a beautiful and evocative soundtrack for moments of tranquility and reflection during your travels.

9. “Bella Ciao” by Traditional Italian Folk Song: This iconic Italian resistance song has been embraced as an anthem of freedom and has been covered by artists from around the world, serving as a reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire.

10. “Africa” by Toto: This timeless classic captures the mystique and allure of the African continent, taking listeners on an imaginary journey through its iconic landscapes.

These international and world music travel songs offer a glimpse into different cultures and traditions, allowing us to connect with the world on a deeper level. So, let the rhythms and melodies transport you to distant lands and ignite your spirit of adventure.

Section 8: Road Trip Anthems

No travel experience is complete without an epic road trip, and having the perfect road trip anthems is essential to set the mood for adventure. These songs are perfect for singing along at the top of your lungs, feeling the wind in your hair, and immersing yourself in the freedom of the open road. Let’s explore some of the must-have road trip anthems for your playlist.

1. “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane: This timeless classic is the ultimate road trip anthem, reminding us to savor every moment as we cruise along the highways and chase our dreams.

2. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC: This hard rock anthem captures the rebellious spirit of the open road, propelling us forward on an adrenaline-fueled journey.

3. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen: With its energizing sound and lyrics about escaping the confines of ordinary life, this song is a powerful reminder to embrace the freedom of the road.

4. “Route 66” by Nat King Cole: This jazzy tune pays homage to the iconic historic highway, evoking a sense of nostalgia and adventure as you traverse the American landscape.

5. “Take It Easy” by Eagles: This laid-back and melodic song invites you to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and take life as it comes during your road trip adventures.

6. “Sweet Emotion” by Aerosmith: This classic rock song embodies the excitement, energy, and sense of adventure that comes with hitting the road and leaving your cares behind.

7. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: This uplifting anthem serves as a reminder to keep pushing forward, pursuing your dreams, and embracing the journey as you make memories on the road.

8. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers: With its infectious chorus, this folk-pop hit is a lighthearted celebration of the true essence of a road trip – the willingness to go the extra mile for love or adventure.

9. “Ramblin’ Man” by The Allman Brothers Band: This bluesy rock tune channels the spirit of a wanderer, embodying the desire to keep moving and exploring new places with a sense of freedom.

10. “Road Trippin'” by Red Hot Chili Peppers: This mellow and introspective song captures the essence of a road trip, emphasizing the bond between friends and the transformative nature of travel.

These road trip anthems will be the perfect companions as you embark on long stretches of highway, creating memories and embracing the freedom of the open road. So, turn up the volume, roll down the windows, and let the music guide you on your epic road trip adventure.

Section 9: Adventure and Exploration Songs

Embarking on an adventure and venturing into the unknown is exhilarating, and having the right soundtrack can enhance the experience. Adventure and exploration songs capture the daring spirit and the thrill of discovering new horizons. Let’s dive into some of the essential adventure and exploration songs for your playlist.

1. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay: This infectious pop-rock hit sets the tone for an adventure-filled journey, inviting you to embrace the excitement and joy of exploring new places.

2. “Dare You to Move” by Switchfoot: With its powerful lyrics and uplifting melody, this song inspires you to step outside your comfort zone and dare to chase your wildest dreams.

3. “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac: This timeless rock anthem encourages independence and emboldens you to forge your own path as you embark on new adventures.

4. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles: This empowering pop ballad reminds you to be brave and face your fears head-on as you embrace the unknown and seek new experiences.

5. “I Lived” by OneRepublic: With its inspiring lyrics and anthemic sound, this song encourages you to live fully in the present and seize every opportunity that comes your way.

6. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: This classic rock anthem is a rallying cry that encourages you to keep pushing forward, never giving up on your dreams, and embracing the adventure of life.

7. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus: With its uplifting message and powerful vocals, this pop ballad reminds you that the journey itself is just as important as reaching the destination.

8. “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons: This feel-good and upbeat song celebrates the exhilaration of achieving your goals and reminds you to savor every moment of your adventurous journey.

9. “Into the Wild” by LP: This indie pop anthem invites you to break free from the constraints of everyday life and venture into the wild, embracing the unknown with open arms.

10. “Learn to Fly” by Foo Fighters: With its energetic sound and powerful lyrics, this rock hit inspires you to spread your wings, take flight, and explore new heights of possibility.

These adventure and exploration songs will ignite your sense of wanderlust and motivate you to embark on bold, life-changing journeys. So, let the music fuel your spirit of adventure as you set out to conquer new horizons.

Music has a magical way of complementing our travel experiences, evoking emotions, and capturing the essence of our journeys. In this article, we’ve explored an array of travel songs from various genres, each offering a unique perspective on wanderlust, adventure, and exploration.

From the upbeat and energetic tunes that get our adrenaline pumping to the reflective and soulful melodies that inspire introspection, we’ve covered a broad range of travel songs for every mood and occasion. The wanderlust-themed pop songs bring a catchy and infectious spirit, while the classic travel songs evoke a sense of nostalgia and timelessness.

The indie and alternative travel songs offer a more offbeat and introspective approach, while the folk and acoustic travel songs provide a raw and organic sound that connects us with the beauty of nature. The international and world music travel songs take us on a global journey, celebrating the diverse cultures and rhythms of different countries.

We can’t forget the road trip anthems that accompany us on the open road, filling us with a sense of freedom and adventure. And if we’re seeking the thrill of exploration, the adventure and exploration songs inspire us to push boundaries and embrace the unknown.

As you curate your own travel playlist, consider the mood, destination, and emotions you want to evoke. Infuse it with a mix of these travel songs to create a soundtrack that truly represents your wanderlust spirit. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, backpacking adventure, or simply daydreaming about your next journey, let the power of music transport you to new places and ignite your sense of wanderlust.

So, pack your bags, hit play on your favorite travel songs, and let the melodies guide you on a journey filled with exploration, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. Safe travels!

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72 Best Songs about Travel and Adventure

Published by sarah vaughan on february 9, 2022 february 9, 2022.

In this article, we list our top 72 favorite songs about travel and adventure, with the option to listen to them on a Spotify playlist. As full-time nomads and constant road-trippers, we spend a lot of time in the car, which means hours upon hours of listening to music. In 2021 alone, we drove over 10,000 miles on our journey from Virginia to California and back. So needless to say, we spend an inordinate amount of time listening to music in the car.

Often, we find ourselves gravitating towards songs that align with our two favorite things – travel and adventure, but it can be hard to find songs that fit that mood. Songs that inspire wanderlust, that make you feel like a you just took a deep breath of mountain air, that remind you of a travel memory, or, in their own unique way, perfectly capture the essence of life on the road. It’s not one particular genre or type of music, just anything that makes you feel inspired to pack your bags and go on an adventure !

Two Outliers may contain affiliate links – we only recommend products we personally use and love. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Our life as nomads

In March of 2021, we sold most our belongings, packed up what was left into our Jeep Cherokkee, left our apartment in Virginia and hit the road: California bound! We drove from Virginia to St. Louis before making our way to Denver.

After spending a week in Denver, we continued to Southern California, then to southern Utah, Arizona, northern California, Idaho, South Dakota, Minnesota… eventually we decided we loved life on the road too much to ever give it up and we made this nomadic lifestyle permanent.

We both secured jobs that would allow us to work remotely full-time during the week and are now full-time nomads. We typically settle into a new “home base” each month with space for us both to work, usually in small towns strategically located near beautiful places with abundant opportunities for outdoor adventuring.

P.S: You can read more about us here and keep up with our road trip adventures here .

Inspiration for our Songs about Travel & Adventure Playlist

We love listening to music that stokes our wanderlust and gets us excited for new adventures. We’ve found it tough to find songs that fit that bill, so we’ve been slowly compiling our own playlist as we come across songs we relate to.

Our lifestyle demands a lot of road tripping, and over the many miles and hours in the car, we’ve crafted the perfect playlist of songs about travel and adventure that we’re excited to share with you!

We hope our playlist will leave you feeling inspired to get out there and see the world!

Details | 64 Best Songs about Travel & Adventure

Our music taste tends to lean towards the Folk, Americana, and blues-y Country genres, and that’s mainly what you’ll find on this playlist.

A few of our favorite bands, like Caamp , Trampled by Turtles , Turnpike Troubadours (we are beyond thrilled they are back together!), Lord Huron , and The National Parks, make an appearance on the list a few times. We hope you love these songs as much as we do, and that our playlist inspires you to hit the road, start a new adventure, or discover a new place that you love!

In the article below, we list our favorite songs about adventure and travel, sorted roughly into the following categories:

• Wanderlust & travel inspiration songs
• Songs about the outdoors and nature

Songs about road tripping

Songs inspired by specific locations.

And if you don’t see one of your favorites, let us know! We are always looking for new music and would love to add new songs to the list.

Download our Songs about Travel & Adventure Spotify Playlist

For our complete list of songs about travel and adventure already in playlist form and ready for your enjoyment, enter your email below and we’ll send you a link to download our ultimate travel playlist on Spotify.

We add to the Spotify playlist periodically as we find music that inspires us, so it may contain additional songs not yet included in this blog post. Happy listening!

Download the Travel & Adventure Playlist on Spotify

Songs about travel inspiration & wanderlust.

The songs in this section are sure to stoke your wanderlust, leaving you with the urge to “ see the world ” and travel to “ the ends of the earth “! If you’re planning a trip, setting off on a new adventure, or just dreaming of future travels, you are sure to find some lyrics you relate to from the songs below.

As we packed up our lives in Virginia and planned to become full-time nomads, we found ourselves relating to Rob Baird’s “Fade Away”. We were certainly packing our “ bags a little heavy this time” , with no immediate plans to return to the place that we had always called home, but we were so “ ready for the big ol’ world ” and the pain of leaving home was overshadowed by our urge to explore!

• See the World | Caamp
• Vagabond | Caamp
• Never Come Back Again | Austin Plaine
• As We Ran | National Parks
• Sprawl II | Will Daily
• 7 Wonders | Jon Robert Hall
• Mason-Dixon Line | Judah & the Lion
• Only the Wild Ones | DISPATCH
• Next to You | John Vincent III
• See the World | Brett Dennen
• Free | Zac Brown Band
• Starting Over | Chris Stapleton
• Traveller | Chris Stapleton
• Nomads | John Craigie
• Hopeless Wanderer | Mumford & Sons
• Ends of the Earth | Lord Huron
• Ba Ba Ra | The National Parks
• Wildflowers | Trampled by Turtles
• I’ve Been Everywhere | Johnny Cash
• Castaway | Zac Brown Band
• The Life You Chose | Jason Isbell
• Mountain Song | Little Chief
• Sleep on the Floor | The Lumineers
• Fade Away | Rob Baird
• Borderlines | Hollow Coves
• Wherever I Go | The National Parks
• Middle of Nowhere | Vancouver Sleep Clinic
• Open Road | Roo Panes
• Woodland | The Paper Kites
• Yellow Eyes | Rayland Baxter
• Wild + Free | Andrew Simple
• Every Mile | Layup

Songs about the outdoors & nature

The songs in this section are inspired by adventure in the great outdoors and the beauty of the world around us. These songs will make you want to hit the trails, climb that mountain, go on a camping trip or just inspire you to get outdoors.

Perhaps my favorite song on this list, “Blue Above the Green” by Mike Edel perfectly captures that feeling you get when you’ve reached the summit after hiking up a mountain. When you look up, all you can see is green leaves and blue sky. If you’re a hiker, this may become your new favorite song!

• Blue Above the Green | Mike Edel
• Specks | Matt Pond PA
• Mountain Sound | Of Monsters and Men
• Painted Sky | The National Parks
• Coastline | Hollow Coves
• Mountains | Jess Taylor
• To the Mountains | Lizzy McAlpine
• Meet Me in the Woods | Lord Huron
• Mighty Mountains | National Park Radio
• The Woods | Hollow Coves
• Wildflower | The National Parks
• Old Pine | Ben Howard
• The River | Good Old War
• These Mountains | Sunday Best

This section includes songs about traveling on the road! From Willie Nelson’s classic “On the Road Again” to lesser-known gems like National Park’s Radio’s “The Road Ahead”, these songs will make you want to pack a bag, “fill the car with gasoline” and hit the road.

Hollow Coves’ song “The Open Road” perfectly describes the urge to travel, when you’ve been feeling stuck in your hometown for too long and you just “ miss the way it feels to roam “, that feeling of freedom that the open road ahead of you brings, as every twist and turn brings the possibility for new adventure.

If you’re planning a road trip, add this song to your travel playlist and you’ll be listening on repeat as your “ troubles fade away “!

• America | Austin Plaine
• All the Debts I Owe | Caamp
• On the Road Again | Willie Nelson
• Heads Carolina, Tails California | Jo Dee Messina
• The Open Road | Hollow Coves
• Life is Good on the Open Road | Trampled by Turtles
• The Road Ahead | National Park Radio
• Born to Be Wild | Steppenwolf
• Ramblin’ Man | Allman Brothers Band
• Road Runner | Vincent Neil Emerson
• Lost, Scared & Tired | Jared & The Mill

These songs about specific locations will make you want to travel to new places and seek out somewhere new to explore!

Maybe you’ll be inspired by the “ red sandstone ” landscapes in Sedona, set “ off to Colorado ” to find that “ rocky mountain high “, lay peacefully watching for “ shootin’ stars in Oklahoma “, be enchanted by the mystery of the Marfa Lights as they “ dance across the horizon ” or come “ alive down in New Orleans “. Wherever your travels take you, these songs are sure to add new places to your bucket list!

During our 2021 road trip , we absolutely fell in love with Idaho (so much so that we ended up buying a piece of land…), and we played Yonder Mountain String Band’s song Idaho on repeat as we road tripped from Idaho Falls to the Sawtooth Mountains. This Bluegrass tune truly captures the beauty of state! Add it your playlist and you may just find yourself planning a trip to Idaho…

• Oklahoma Stars | Turnpike Troubadours
• Wyoming | Family & Friends
• Stockholm | Judah & the Lion
• New Orleans | Parachute
• Colorado | CHAPPY
• Sedona | Houndsmouth
• Shenandoah | Trampled by Turtles
• Morocco | Moon Taxi
• Ohio | Caamp
• Colorado | Alex Gunthrie
• Carolina | Corey Smith
• Idaho | Yonder Mountain String Band
• Rocky Mountain High | John Denver
• Alabama Pines | Jason Isbell
• Marfa Lights | Kaitlin Butts

About the artists

We love all the artists and bands on this list, but we wanted to highlight a few of our favorites.

When I find a new artist that I love, I can listen to their songs on repeat for hours. This is Caamp for me! We started listening to their songs on our first cross country road trip and then went to a Caamp concert and we’ve been hooked ever since!

Evan Westfall, Taylor Meier and Matt Vinson make up the trio behind this American Folk band originally from Ohio. Caamp released their first album in 2016 and has been gaining popularity ever since. Many of their songs are about nature, being outdoors, and traveling, which is part of why we love them so much!

The National Parks

Songs from The National Parks take up several spots on our list of the best 72 songs about travel and adventure! This Indie folk/pop band formed in Provo, Utah consists of 4 members, Brady Parks, Sydney Macfarlane, Cam Brannelly and Megan Taylor Parks. They released their first single in 2013 and have since released four albums, “Wildflowers”, “Places”, “Until I Live”, and “Young”.

The National Parks songs have many songs about the beauty of the world around us, from the peaks of the Grand Tetons to the “painted sky” of the desert in the southwest. In fact, their single “As We Ran” was written for a short documentary by REI called “ Love in the Tetons” .

Hollow Coves

Another group that takes up a few spots on our list of songs about travel and adventure is Hollow Coves, an Australian Indie band led by sing-songwriters,  Ryan Henderson and Matt Carins.

The band’s earthy folk songs are inspired by the singers’ own travels, and their passion for seeing the world shines through in their music. In fact, their first album released in 2017 was titled ‘Wanderlust”, and includes several of the songs on our list, such as “Coastline” and “The Woods.”

Other useful resources

Planning a road trip or a new adventure? We think you may find some inspiration and useful information here:

• Travel tips | 11 Proven Tips for Road Tripping with a Cat
• Road trip| Complete List of Road Trip Camping Essentials
• Road trip | 27 Highlights of Our Life on the Road in 2021
• Southwestern USA | The Ultimate 1 Week Arizona and Southern Utah Road Trip
• Wyoming | 18 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park

What are your favorite songs about travel and adventure?! What songs would you add to the list? Let us know what you think of our playlist – we would love to hear from you!

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Sarah Vaughan

Hello! I'm Sarah, one half of the couple behind Two Outliers! In 2023, I quit my job as a Data Scientist to travel around the world on an epic 15-month journey in search of the world's greatest hikes and outdoor adventures. Matt and I started Two Outliers in 2021 as a place for visitors to find concise, accurate, and honest information to plan their own adventures. We hope our experiences inspire you to hit the trail! Happy Hiking! Sarah

Josh Sanders · February 9, 2022 at 10:00 pm

Wow an amazing list and photo!

twooutliers · February 10, 2022 at 8:12 am

thank you! we love this playlist, enjoy!

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Road Trip Sing-Along Songs for Every Type of Adventure

The three things every road trip needs are snacks, buddies, and a soundtrack! That’s why we’ve gathered the best road trip sing-along songs for you!

There’s nothing that encompasses a sense of freedom like the open road! A road trip with your besties, your family, or your greatest love is the perfect way to blow off some steam and deepen your relationships. While the whole point is to venture into the unknown and enjoy an unbridled adventure, a successful road trip takes a little planning. You’re going to need some traditional snacks and a phenomenal playlist. Music can set the tone for your whole vacation! That’s why we’ve gathered all the best road trip sing-along songs for your listening pleasure. Open up your Spotify and start downloading, this is going to be epic!

Road trips are made for roaming!

Wherever you’re headed and whoever you’re with, we want you to make the most of it. No doubt you’ll be passing some interesting places along the way. Why not pull over and take a look? There’s nothing like a last-minute scavenger hunt to keep an adventure interesting. Or how about a surprise ghost tour ? And once you reach your destination, you might be in the mood for a refreshing bar crawl . Take Let’s Roam on your road trip and have triple the fun!

Choosing the Best Songs for Your Road Trip

Like most categories in life, “the best songs” will be entirely different for each person. You certainly won’t like all the songs on this list, but our road trip songs can’t just be a list of your favorite ditties. There are parameters here. When searching for the best road trip songs, here are some tips to make sure your playlist is a hit.

1. Pick songs that are easy to sing along with.

The whole point of a great road trip sing-along is to well… sing along! You want to pick songs that have an easy melody and well-known words so you all belt it out together! You might not know all the words, but at least the chorus should sound familiar.

2. What is your vibe?

You want to choose songs that fit the vibe of your trip. If you are taking a trip with the girls after a bad breakup, then you don’t want to load your list with power ballads all about love. Sure, they are great to sing along with, but they are kind of the opposite of what you need right now. If you are going to the beach, you wanna choose tropical, reggae, or surging-inspired songs to get you in the laid-back, beach-sitting mood. Just think about the purpose of your trip, and find songs that evoke the emotion you want to get out of your trip!

3. Include some variation.

You don’t want to make a playlist with all the same kinds of music or one that’s too short. Make sure to include a good mix of current and classic. Mix up the genres. Keep them guessing what’s next! This is also a great way to ensure that your list has something on it for everyone.

4. Think about your mates.

Part of going on a road trip together is enjoying time with your favorite people. When you make your playlist, think about the people who will be in the car. What are their favorite songs or genres of music? What artists do they love? If you don’t know, have each road tripper send you a list of 10-15 songs that they want to include on the list!

How to Utilize this Guide

Taking into account all these tips, we’ve chosen songs that fit specific types of road trips. We’ve divided our master list into groupings for girls’ trips, romantic getaways, trips to the beach, trips with kiddos, and a general list for the best road trip song ever! Find the list that fits your vibe and enjoy!

The Best General Road Trip Playlist

If your family is anything like most, agreeing on music across generations is a tricky task. While you will certainly have to compromise, a good long road trip is also a great time to teach your kids about classic rock or bust out the best karaoke songs of all time. In this section, we’ve gathered all the belters. You know what we are talking about, those songs that are best sung with the speakers blaring and absolutely no skill necessary. Here’s our list of the best songs to annoy your kids with!

• “Sweet Home Alabama”—Lynyrd Skynyrd
• “On The Road Again”—Willie Nelson
• “Born to be Wild”—Steppenwolf
• “American Pie”—Don Mclean
• “Don’t Stop Believin’”—Journey
• “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)”—The Proclaimers
• “Life is a Highway”—Rascal Flatts or the original by Tom Cochrane
• “Highway to Hell“—AC/DC
• “Hit the Road Jack”—Ray Charles
• “Here I Go Again”—Whitesnake
• “Running on Empty”—Jackson Browne
• “Mustang Sally”—Wilson Pickett
• “Road to Nowhere”—Talking Heads
• “Little Red Corvette”—Prince
• “Purple Rain”—Prince
• “I’ve Been Everywhere”—Johnny Cash
• “Born to Run”—Bruce Springsteen
• “Jack and Diane”—John Mellencamp
• “Free Fallin’”—Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers
• “Bohemian Rhapsody”—Queen
• “We are the Champions”—Queen
• “Another One Bites the Dust”—Queen
• “Friends in Low Places”—Garth Brooks
• “All My Exes Live in Texas”—George Strait
• “Sweet Caroline”—Neil Diamond

Author note: As a consummate world traveler, I swear I have heard this favorite sung in more countries than I can count. From folk fairs in Scotland to road trips through Nepal, everyone seems to know the chorus to “Sweet Caroline”, and it is acceptable worldwide to sing it at the top of your lungs!

• “The Devil Went Down to Georgia”—The Charlie Daniels Band
• “Jackson”—Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash
• “Swingin’”—John Anderson
• “Family Tradition”—Hank Williams

“ Family Tradition” is one of the best sing-along songs of all time. With its “extra lyrics,” the song lends itself perfectly to tone-deaf songbirds who find their place screaming the somewhat naughty interjections. Granted, people are usually drunk when they karaoke to this fine tune, but given this is a road trip, you are going to have to yell your interjections without liquid help!

• “Take Me Home, Country Roads”—John Denver
• “Johnny B. Goode”—Chuck Berry
• “Blaze of Glory”—Jon Bon Jovi
• “Is This Love”—Whitesnake
• “Welcome to the Jungle”—Guns n’ Roses
• “Paradise City”—Guns n’ Roses
• “Africa”—TOTO
• “Signs”—Tesla
• “You’re The One That I Want”—John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John”
• “Y.M.C.A”—The Village People
• “Dancing Queen”—ABBA
• “Uptown Girl”—Billy Joel
• “I Love Rock n’ Roll”—Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
• “Jessie’s Girl”—Rick Springfield
• “Baby Got Back”—Sir Mix-A-Lot
• “Ice, Ice Baby”—Vanilla Ice
• “Hotel California”—Eagles
• “Livin’ on a Prayer”—Bon Jovi
• “It’s Raining Men”—The Weather Girls
• “Go Your Own Way”—Fleetwood Mac
• “Stayin’ Alive”—The BeeGees
• “What a Feelin’”—Irene Cara
• “Gansta’s Paradise”—Coolio and Kylian Mash
• “Footloose”—Kenny Loggins
• “Men in Black”—Will Smith
• “Eye of the Tiger”—Survivor
• “Happy”—Pharell Williams
• “Can’t Stop the Feeling!”—Justin Timberlake
• “I’m Bringing Sexy Back”—Justin Timberlake
• “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit it”—Will Smith
• “We Didn’t Start the Fire”—Billy Joel
• “Paradise by the Dashboard Light”—Meatloaf
• “Like a Rolling Stone”—Bob Dylan
• “Proud Mary”—Ike and Tina Turner
• “The Ride”—David Allen Coe
• “Fast Car”—Tracy Chapman
• “Shut Up and Drive”—Rihanna
• “All the Small Things”—Blink-182
• “Island in the Sun”—Weezer
• “Midnight Rider”—The Allman Brothers Band
• “No Particular Place… ”—Chuck Berry
• “The Dog Days are Over”—Florence + The Machine
• “Where the Streets Have no Name”—U2
• “Every day is a Winding Road”—Sheryl Crow
• “Billie Jean”—Michael Jackson

“ Billie Jean” has been voted on several poles as the most popular karaoke song of all time! The 1983 classic was a #1 Billboard hit for M.J. Though Michael is gone, his music lives on from karaoke stages the world over. Although, we are not sure if he would be proud of that fact, or cringe at us all butchering his classic hit!

• “Don’t Bring Me Down”—Electric Light Orchestra
• “I Want to Break Free”—Queen
• “ Hey Ya”—Outkast
• “Interstate Love Song”—Stone Temple Pilots
• “The Way”—Fastball
• “King of the Road”—Roger Miller
• “1979”—The Smashing Pumpkins
• “Carolina in my Mind”—James Taylor
• “Long Train Runnin’”—The Doobie Brothers
• “Peace Train”—Cat Stevens
• “C’Mon n’ Ride It (The Train)”—Quad City DJ’s
• “Midnight Train to Georgia”—Gladys Knight & The Pips
• “Ramblin’ Man”—The Allman Brothers Band
• “Let Me Ride”—Dr. Dre
• “Radar Love”—Golden Earring
• “Hooked on a Feeling”—Blue Swede
• “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)”—Rupert Holmes
• “The Way You Make Me Feel”—Michael Jackson
• “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’”—The Righteous Brothers
• “Wake Up Little Susie”—The Everly Brothers
• “The Gambler”—Kenny Rogers
• “Walk Like an Egyptian”—The Bangles
• “Georgia on my Mind”—Ray Charles
• “America the Beautiful”—Ray Charles
• “Mr. Brightside”—The Killers

The Best Road Trip Songs for a Girl’s Trip

If you are taking a summer road trip across the United States with your best gal pals, you are going to need some fun chick tunes that evoke a sense of female empowerment and good vibes! Think epic, top-of-your-lungs power ballads and iconic girl groups! Here are our best picks in no particular order.

• “No Scrubs”—TLC
• “Creep”—TLC
• “Waterfalls”—TLC

Oh TLC… nobody does “Crazy, Sexy, Cool” like you ladies, the original boss babes!

• “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”—Cyndi Lauper
• “True Colors”—Cyndi Lauper
• “Time After Time”—Cyndi Lauper
• “…Baby One More Time”—Britney Spears
• “Oops…I Did it Again”—Britney Spears
• “Toxic”—Britney Spears
• “Oh, Pretty Woman”—Roy Orbison
• “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”—Whitney Houston
• “I Will Always Love You”—Whitney Houston
• “I’m Every Woman”—Whitney Houston
• “I’m Your Baby Tonight”—Whitney Houston
• “Bills, Bills, Bills”—Destiny’s Child
• “Bootylicious”—Destiny’s Child
• “Survivor”—Destiny’s Child
• “Independent Women”—Destiny’s Child

If TLC were the originals, then Destiny’s Child wasn’t far behind on the female empowerment game. Man, they make ya proud to be a powerful lady!

• “Soak up the Sun”—Sheryl Crow
• “All I Wanna Do”—Sheryl Crow
• “If It Makes You Happy”—Sheryl Crow
• “Some Days You Gotta Dance”—The Dixie Chicks
• “Wide Open Spaces”—Dixie Chicks
• “Cowboy Take Me Away”—Dixie Chicks
• “Diamonds”—Rihanna
• “Umbrella”—Rihanna
• “You Oughta Know”—Alanis Morissette
• “Head Over Feet”—Alanis Morissette
• “Jagged Little Pill”—Alanis Morissette

It doesn’t get more angsty than Alanis. Her Jagged Little Pill album was one of the female albums of all time, and it has held up to time. It’s still fun to listen to. Especially if you’re angry!

• “Dark Horse”—Katy Perry
• “California Gurls”—Katy Perry
• “I Kissed A Girl”—Katy Perry
• “Teenage Dream”—Katy Perry
• “Roar”—Katy Perry

Katy Perry may or may not be your favorite artist, but she has some great, scream-it-out-the-window jams for a girl’s trip!

• “Vogue”—Madonna
• “Material Girl”—Madonna
• “Like a Virgin”—Madonna
• “Like a Prayer”—Madonna
• “Lucky Star”—Madonna
• “Bad Guy”—Billie Eilish
• “Rolling in the Deep”—Adele
• “Rumour Has It”—Adele
• “Set Fire to the Rain”—Adele
• “Man! I Feel Like A Woman!”—Shania Twain
• “Any Man of Mine”—Shania Twain
• “Who’s Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?”—Shania Twain
• “Royals”—Lorde
• “Kerosene”—Miranda Lambert
• “Somethin’ Bad”—Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood
• “Gunpowder and Lead”—Miranda Lambert
• “Church Bells”—Carrie Underwood
• “Before He Cheats”—Carrie Underwood
• “All-American Girl”—Carrie Underwood
• “Independence Day”—Martina McBride
• “My Heart Will Go On”—Celine Dion
• “All By Myself”—Celine Dion
• “Run the World”—Beyonce
• “Single Ladies”—Beyonce
• “Just a Girl”—No Doubt
• “Don’t Speak”—No Doubt
• “Spiderwebs”—No Doubt
• “Hella Good”—No Doubt

Second to maybe Alanis, nobody does jilted-lover anger quite like Gwenny. These firey, female anthems are still so, so good!

• “Girl on Fire”—Alicia Keys
• “Superwoman”—Alicia Keys
• “I Will Survive”—Gloria Gaynor
• “I’m Coming Out”—Diana Ross
• “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”—Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
• “Born This Way”—Lady Gaga
• “Bad Romance”—Lady Gaga
• “Stronger”—Kelly Clarkson
• “Killing Me Softly With His Song”—Lauryn Hill
• “Doo Wop”—Lauren Hill
• “Family Affair”—Mary J. Blige
• “Respect”—Aretha Franklin
• “A Natural Woman”—Aretha Franklin
• “Hips Don’t Lie”—Shakira
• “Whenever, Wherever”—Shakira
• “Wannabe”—Spice Girls
• “Say You’ll Be There”—Spice Girls
• “If You Wanna Be My Lover”—Spice Girls
• “Push It!”—Salt—N—Pepa
• “Whatta Man”—Salt-N-Pepa
• “Shoop”—Salt-N-Pepa
• “Lady Marmalade”—Moulin Rouge Soundtrack
• “Dirty”—Christina Aguilera
• “Genie in a Bottle”—Christina Aguilera
• “Come on Over Baby”—Christina Aguilera
• “I Got You Babe”—Sonny and Cher
• “If I Could Turn Back Time”—Cher
• “About Damn Time”—Lizzo
• “Always Be My Baby”—Mariah Carey
• “Havana”—Camila Cabello
• “Let’s Hear it for the Boy”—Deneice Williams
• “Look What You Made Me Do”—Taylor Swift
• “Bad Blood”—Taylor Swift
• “Shake it Off”—Taylor Swift
• “I Knew You Were Trouble”—Taylor Swift

That Taylor sure does write a catchy tune! Like her or not, you can’t help but sing along!

• “Jolene”—Dolly Parton
• “Holding Out for a Hero”—Bonnie Tyler
• “Zombie”—Cranberries

The Best Road Trip Songs for Your Romantic Getaway

A long winding road, windows down, radio blaring, and just you and your boo to enjoy it. Sounds pretty perfect, doesn’t it? A good road trip is the ultimate way to test a new romance, or rekindle an old one! All that time in the car gives you time to talk about life’s important stuff and remember why you fell in love in the first place. A romantic playlist will help set the tone for a week of lovin’. This one is tricky. We need romantic, but also good for singing along, and we can’t get too hot and heavy.

You might find that your conversation needs a little boost if you are taking a long road trip. We got you covered. Here are “52 Conversation Prompts for Couples” to get your dialogue back on track!

• “My Girl”—The Temptations
• “Brown Eyed Girl”—Van Morrison
• “Love Shack”—The B52s
• “Your Body Is a Wonderland”—John Mayer
• “She’s So High”—Tal Bachman
• “Do You Believe in Magic?”—The Lovin’ Spoonful
• “Accidentally in Love”—Counting Crows
• “Kiss Me”—Sixpence None The Richer
• “Love Story”—Taylor Swift
• “Lucky”—Jason Mraz
• “Perfect”—Ed Sheeran
• “Wonderful Tonight”—Eric Clapton
• “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You”—Bryan Adams
• “Truly, Madly, Deeply”—Savage Garden
• “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love With You”—UB40 or Elvis Presley
• “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”—Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes
• “Unchained Melody”—The Righteous Brothers
• “If I Aint’ Got You”—Alicia Keys
• “Just The Two of Us”—Grover Washington and Bill Withers
• “Endless Love”—Lionel Richie and Diana Ross
• “Your Song”—Elton John
• “A Groovy Kind of Love”—Phil Collins
• “I Knew I Loved You”—Savage Garden
• “You Are So Beautiful”—Joe Cocker
• “I Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing”—Aerosmith
• “All My Life”—K—Ci & JoJo
• “I’ll Make Love to You”—Boyz II Men
• “On Bended Knee”—Boyz II Men
• “End of the Road”—Boyz II Men
• “Hero”—Mariah Carey
• “Fantasy”—Mariah Carey
• “Thank God I Found You”—Mariah Carey
• “I’ll Stand by You”—The Pretenders
• “Lean on Me”—Bill Withers
• “You’re Still the One“—Shania Twain
• “Carrying Your Love With Me”—George Strait
• “Love Without End, Amen”—George Strait
• “Run”—George Strait
• “Carried Away”—George Strait
• “I Swear”—All-4-One
• “The Way You Look Tonight”—Frank Sinatra
• “At Last”—Etta James
• “When A Man Loves A Woman”—Michael Bolton

If you can’t belt out to Michael Bolton, then you are broken, and we can’t fix you!

• “Saving All My Love for You”—Whitney Houston
• “I’ll Be There”—Jackson Five
• “Take My Breath Away”—Berlin
• “Aint’ No Other Man”—Christina Aguilera
• “River Deep, Mountain High”—Celine Dion
• Red Light Special”—TLC
• “Sexual Healing”—Marvin Gaye
• “Get It On Tonite”—Montell Jordan
• “Pony”—Ginuwine
• “Nobody”—Keith Sweat, featuring Athena Cage
• “You Make Me Wanna”-Usher
• “My Way”—Usher
• “Hungry Eyes”—Eric Carmen
• “I Want Your Sex”—George Michael
• “No One” Alicia Keys
• “Peaches & Cream”—112, P Diddy
• “Sugar”—Maroon 5
• “Every Breath You Take”—The Police
• “Just The Way You Are”—Bruno Mars
• “Crazy Little Things Called Love”—Queen
• “Love Me Like You Do”—Ellie Goulding
• “In Your Eyes”—Peter Gabriel
• “Love On Top”—Beyonce
• “I Wanna Know What Love Is”—Foreigner
• “Come Away With Me”—Norah Jones
• “She’s Always A Woman”—Billy Joel
• “Be My Baby”—The Ronettes
• “I Want it That Way”—The Backstreet Boys
• “A Thousand Years”—Christina Perry
• “Bleeding Love”—Leona Lewis
• “Linger”—The Cranberries
• “Sweet Emotion”—Aerosmith
• “Meet Virginia”—Train
• “You Make My Dreams”—Hall & Oates
• “Nothing Else Matters”—Metallica

James Hetfield, frontman for Metallica, wrote this sappy tune while on tour and missing his girl. It was a far cry from the normal Metallica headbang, and it got the band some major flack. However, the ballad was a fresh take on romantic and went on to be one of Metallica’s top songs of all time.

• “Smooth”—Santana, featuring Rob Thomas
• “In the Still of the Night”—The Five Satins
• “Stand by Me”—Ben E. King
• “Me and Bobby McGee”—Janis Joplin
• “Beast of Burden”—The Rolling Stones
• “You’re in my Heart”—Rod Stewart
• “Me and Charlie Talking”—Miranda Lambert
• “You’ve Never Even Called Me By My Name”—Waylon Jennings
• “Sweet Child O’ Mine”—Guns n’ Roses
• “I’ll be There for You”—Bon Jovi
• “Faithfully”—Journey
• “Open Arms”—Journey
• “Dancing in the Dark”—Bruce Springsteen
• “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back”—Shawn Mendes
• “Making Love Out of Nothing at all”—Air Supply
• “Hey Jude”—The Beatles

Is it really a road trip playlist, or any playlist at all, if you don’t include a little Beatles? We think not!

• “Chasing Cars”—Snow Patrol
• “Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher”—Jackie Wilson
• “ My Best Friend”—Tim McGraw
• “You’re My Best Friend”—Queen
• “Good Hearted Woman”—Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson

Whew… we are 300 songs in! Are you tired yet? Well, hang tight because we are just getting started!

The Best Road Trip Songs for Little Ones

If you have little ones in tow, then you’ll spend most of your trip trying to keep them entertained in one fashion or another. There’s nothing worse than being trapped in a car with a screaming toddler. Parents the world over know, that you will sing any stupid song and do any number of silly dances just to keep the peace. In this section, we have rounded up songs that small children will love, and some that mom and dad will know too! We’ve got everything from classic nursery rhymes to Disney favorites, and honestly, we would listen to some of these babies even if we didn’t have kids in the backseat!

• “Just Around the Riverbend”—From Pocahontas, the movie, sung by Judy Kuhn
• “A Whole New World”—From Aladdin , sung by Lea Salong and Brad Kane
• “Circle of Life”—From The Lion King , sung by Carmen Twillie and Lebo M.
• “Beauty and the Beast”—From the movie of the same name, sung by Angela Lansbury
• “Kiss the Girl”—From the Little Mermaid, sung by Samuel E. Wright
• “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”—From Mary Poppins , sung by Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke
• “Cruella De Vil”—From 101 Dalmations , sung by Bill Lee
• “You Can Fly”—From Peter Pan , sung by Bobby Driscoll et. all
• “Hakuna Matata”—From The Lion King , sung by Nathan Lane, etc. all
• “Be Our Guest”—From Beauty and the Beast , sung by Angela Lansbury and Jerry Orbach
• “The Bare Necessities”—From Jungle Book , sung by Phil Harris and Bruce Reitherman
• “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”—From The Lion King , sung by Elton John
• “Let’s Go Fly a Kite”—From Mary Poppins , sung by David Tomlinson, Dick Van Dyke, and the Londoners
• “I’m Still Standing”—From Sing , sung by Taron Egerton
• “Shake it Off”—From Sing , sung by Nick Kroll, Reese Witherspoon
• “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?”—From Frozen , sung by Kristen Bell, Agatha Lee Monn, and Katie Lopez
• “Let it Go”—From Frozen , sung by Idina Menzel
• “When Will My Life Begin”—From Tangled , sung by Mandy Moore
• “Try Everything”—From Zootopia, sung by Shakira
• “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King”—From The Lion King , JD McCrary, Shahadi Wright Joseph, John Oliver
• “Surface Pressure”—From Encanto , sung by Jessica Darrow
• “How Far I’ll Go”—From Moana , sung by Auli’i Cravalho
• “Un Poco Loco”—From Coco , sung by Anthony Gonzales
• “Friend Like Me”—From Aladdin —Sung by Will Smith
• “Over the Rainbow”—From The Wizard of Oz , sung by Judy Garland
• “I Like to Move it”—From Madagascar 2 —Will.i.am
• “Pete the Cat and His White Shoes”—Mr. Eric
• “Wheels on the Bus”—Old Town School of Folk Music
• “Row, Row, Row Your Boat”—Old Town School of Folk Music
• “Baby Shark”—Pinkfong
• “Drivin’ in my Car”—Ralph’s World
• “John Jingleheim Schmidt”—The Kiboomers
• “ABC’s”—Blippi, Nicky Notes
• “The Excavator Song”—Blippi

If your children have somehow not discovered Blippi yet, congratulations! If you are stuck with him like the rest of us, you might as well learn the lyrics to “The Excavator Song,” cuz it’s a toddler Billboard chart-topper. Get ready to hit repeat, or just download the complete collection and spend hours singing about monster trucks, trains, and garbage trucks. Most of his songs are about machines and transportation, so we guess they are kind of perfect for a road trip.

• “Bingo”—Cocomelon
• “Hot Potato”—The Wiggles
• “Itsy Bitsy Spider”—Cocomelon
• “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”—Cocomelon
• “Skidamarink”—Cocomelon
• “Old McDonald Had a Farm”—The Countdown Kids

Okay, we made it through the toddler tunes. Hopefully, forty is enough, and they are snoozing soundly by now. Moving on!

The Perfect Playlist for Your Beach Trip

Bring on the cool Caribbean beats. Perfect white sand, clear turquoise water, and a fruity drink in hand… at least, that’s the vibe we are going for, though the reality is sometimes different, especially if you have children. Either way, the best chance you have at a restorative beach trip is to get yourself at ease before you get there! Let’s round up the reggae!

• “Red, Red Wine”—UB40
• “Jump in the Line”—Harry Belafonte
• “Banana Boat (Day-O)”—Harry Belafonte
• “Margaritaville”—Jimmy Buffet
• “Surfin’ U.S.A”—The Beach Boys
• “Wouldn’t it Be Nice?”—The Beach Boys
• “Good Vibrations”—The Beach Boys
• “California Girls”—The Beach Boys
• “Kokomo”—The Beach Boys
• “Fun, Fun, Fun”—The Beach Boys
• “Over the Rainbow”—Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
• “Steal my Sunshine”—LEN
• “Walkin’ On the Sun”—Smash Mouth
• “Two Tickets to Paradise”—Eddie Money
• “Pass the Dutchie”—Musical Youth
• “Peaceful Easy Feeling”—Eagles
• “Under the Boardwalk”—The Drifters
• “Caribbean Queen”—Billy Ocean
• “Miami”—Will Smith
• “Conga”—Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine
• “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You”—Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine
• “Get on Your Feet”—Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine
• “Santeria”—Sublime
• “Here Comes the Sun”—The Beatles
• “(Sittin’ On) the Dock of the Bay—Otis Redding
• “California Dreamin’”—The Mamas & The Papas
• “Could You Be Loved”—Bob Marley & The Wailers
• “Three Little Birds”—Bob Marley & The Wailers
• “One Love/People Get Ready”—Bob Marley & The Wailers
• “Buffalo Soldier”—Bob Marley & The Wailers
• “Get Up, Stand Up”—The Wailers
• “I Can See Clearly Now”—Jimmy Cliff
• “True to Myself”—Ziggy Marley
• “Black Magic Woman”—Santana
• “Coconut”—Harry Nilsson
• “Knee Deep”—Zac Brown Band, featuring Jimmy Buffet
• “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems”—Kenny Chesney
• “Beachin”—Jake Owen
• “Toes”—Zac Brown Band
• “Buy Me a Boat”—Chris Janson
• “Somewhere On a Beach”—Dierks Bentley
• “Two Pina Coladas”—Garth Brooks”
• “Coastline”—Hollow Coves
• “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere”—Alan Jackson, Jimmy Buffet
• “When the Sun Goes Down”—Kenny Chesney, Uncle Kracker
• “Some Beach”—Black Shelton
• “Pontoon”—Little Big Town
• “One Kiss”—Calvin Harris with Dua Lipa
• “Sunshine”—OneRepublic
• “Dancing in the Moonlight”—Looking Glass
• “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)”—Looking Glass
• “Come Sail Away”—Styx
• “Sailing”—Christopher Cross
• “Upside Down”—Jack Johson
• “Take it Easy”—Eagles
• “In the Summertime”—Mungo Jerry
• “Happy Together”—The Turtles
• “Down on the Corner”—Creedence Clearwater Revival
• “Doctor My Eyes”—Jackson Browne
• “Summer Breeze”—Seal and Crofts

Seatbelts, everyone!

There you have it, all the best songs for your next road trip! It should only take you a month or so to download them all… better get busy. Did we miss your favorite road trip jam? Drop it in the comments!

Are you taking a road trip with your offspring? Make sure to take a look at our new travel guide “15 Must-Haves for a Road Trip With Kids.” We’ve got all the secrets for making your family road trip part of the fun and not just a means to an end! And if you’re stuck for things to see along the way, this handy list of quirky roadside attractions could be for you.

Planning a road trip can feel like a daunting task! If you are struggling a bit, or don’t know where to even start, we got ya covered! Here’s “How to Plan a Road Trip: A Comprehensive Guide.” We’ve lined it our from start to finish, so you will be ready to roam in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions

The best songs for a road trip are songs that you love, that are easy to sing along to, and that put you in vacation mode! Try “Life is a Highway, “Bohemian Rhapsody” or “Go Your Own Way.”

The greatest sing-along songs are instantly recognizable. Popular picks are “Sweet Caroline,” “Billie Jean,” and “Sweet Child O’ Mine.”

A successful road trip needs a fantastic playlist, plenty of good snacks, and some age-appropriate games. It also helps to plan a few adventure stops along the way!

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Maggie Rogers made 'Don't Forget Me' with the pedal to the floor

Raina Douris

Miguel Perez

Maggie Rogers on World Cafe

Maggie Rogers Maggie Rogers/Courtesy of the artist hide caption

• Maggie Rogers
• "It Was Coming All Along"
• "So Sick of Dreaming"
• "Never Going Home"

Is there anything better than singing along to your favorite song with your best friends in the car? There's a reason why road trip mixtapes and playlists are so popular and why the "road trip movie" is an enduring genre — being on the road with your friends means freedom and adventure.

That's how Maggie Rogers felt when she was making her new album, Don't Forget Me. Alongside her co-producer and co-writer, Ian Fitchuk, Rogers made the album with the pedal to the floor, in only five days, at Electric Lady Studios in New York City.

In the spirit of any great road trip, she did so with the willingness to just see where the road — or in this case, a song — might lead. Taking turns that felt interesting resulted in an album of free-spirited songs that mostly consist of first takes.

In this session, Rogers talks about making the album, the movies and music that inspired it, and why she wanted to bring her friends into her art.

This episode of World Cafe was produced and edited by Miguel Perez. Our senior producer is Kimberly Junod and our engineer is Chris Williams. Our programming and booking coordinator is Chelsea Johnson and our line producer is Will Loftus.

Episode Playlist

The essential country music road trip playlist

Posted: December 15, 2023 | Last updated: December 15, 2023

One of the most important parts of planning a road trip — even before you head to the gas station or pack the snacks — is curating the right playlist. If you're a country music fan, you're fortunate in that the genre is positively replete with songs that are perfect to crank loud while you're driving the open road.

Flip through the slideshow below for 20 essential country road trip tunes, from classics like Willie Nelson's "On The Road Again" to Luke Combs's chart-topping cover of "Fast Car." 

"On The Road Again," Willie Nelson

No road trip would be complete without Willie Nelson's 1980 classic "On The Road Again," perfect for when you're traveling with a big group of friends for a weekend getaway. 

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"Amarillo By Morning," George Strait

George Strait's seminal 1973 song "Amarillo By Morning," about a broken-down rodeo cowboy making his way around the country, is a perfect song to blare while you're driving through the vast expanses of the American West. 

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"King of the Road," Roger Miller

If you've ever had to travel on a budget, you can probably relate to the vagabond protagonist in "King of the Road." It's been a country road trip staple since 1965, and is perfect for a group singalong in the car when everyone's starting to get a little sleepy. 

You may also like: The definitive Pink Floyd playlist

"80s Mercedes," Maren Morris

Whether or not you're a "'90s baby," anyone can appreciate the breezy, top-down vibes of Maren Morris's "80s Mercedes." Even if you're not driving a convertible, roll the windows down and turn the volume up when this one comes on. 

"Wagon Wheel," Darius Rucker

Originally recorded by Old Crow Medicine Show, with lyrics by Bob Dylan, "Wagon Wheel" is a road trip staple, especially for anyone who's traveling through the Southeastern United States. And even if you're not "headed down south to the land of the pines," this song is perfect for any destination. 

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"Heads Carolina, Tails California," Jo Dee Messina

Even if it isn't possible for most of us do something as spontaneous as choosing your vacation destination with the flip of a coin, it's still fun to daydream about the prospect while listening to Jo Dee Messina sing "Heads Carolina, Tails California" while driving down the highway. 

"East Bound and Down," Jerry Reed

Heading east? This Jerry Reed classic is the perfect way to get in the mood for a long drive, and no one will blame you for (safely) pretending like you're living in that scene from "Smokey and the Bandit" when it starts playing over the speakers. 

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"Traveller," Chris Stapleton

"Traveller," the title track of Chris Stapleton's smash debut album, is a must for anyone who's got a heavy case of wanderlust. 

"Jackson," Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash

Even if you don't quite have the vocal prowess of Johnny & June, grab your significant other and head out on the road while playing "Jackson," a perfect song for even the happiest couples to harmonize to in the car. 

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"Life Is A Highway," Rascal Flatts

Okay, it's a little cheesy, but there's no denying the appeal of blaring "Life Is A Highway" while you're speeding down an actual highway headed toward a killer vacation. 

"Toes," Zac Brown Band

If you're driving toward a beachy destination, make sure that "Toes" is definitely on your road trip playlist. While you're stuck in traffic, it's a good reminder to think about all the relaxing on the sand you'll be doing as soon as you arrive. 

You may also like: Taylor Swift's 22 most essential songs, ranked

"Wide Open Spaces," The Chicks

If you've ever driven across the great state of Texas, you quickly get the idea of what "Wide Open Spaces" is talking about. Add it to your playlist, and spend a little time contemplating the gorgeous scenery while the Chicks harmonize. 

"Take Me Home, Country Roads," John Denver

Arguably best saved for your return trip home, "Take Me Home, Country Roads" is ideal for those moments when you're trying to stay motivated to finish those last few hours of driving. 

You may also like: 25 cover songs that totally missed the mark

"Fast Car," Luke Combs

Luke Combs's take on Tracy Chapman's much-revered "Fast Car" is currently burning up the country charts, and for good reason. It's faithful to the original, perfect for blaring while you contemplate life on your long drive. 

"Before He Cheats," Carrie Underwood

Even if you haven't been through a break-up recently, anyone can enjoy singing about smashing someone's headlights with a baseball bat at the top of their lungs, especially if you've got a car full of folks with that same energy. 

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"Sweet Home Alabama," Lynyrd Skynyrd

Sure, it's technically Southern rock, but Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" is an absolute must for your road trip playlist. That ridiculously catchy melody aside, it's an instant mood boost for when the trip's dragging on a little too long. 

"Settling Down," Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert's 2020 ballad "Settling Down" is essential for anyone who, like Lambert sings in this song, has their "feet on the ground and head up in the clouds." 

You may also like: The 25 most memorable Harrison Ford performances

"Red Dirt Road," Brooks & Dunn

Dig deep into your childhood nostalgia with "Red Dirt Road," a song that's all about reliving those memories of driving around on backroads in the past, from legendary '90s duo Brooks & Dunn. 

"I've Been Everywhere," Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash lists off too many American destinations to count in "I've Been Everywhere," making it an obvious addition to the soundtrack for a great American road trip. Even if you're not going to Dayton, Ohio or Tulsa, Oklahoma, the appeal of this song is totally universal. 

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"Let's Go to Vegas," Faith Hill

Even though this song is about running off and eloping in Las Vegas, it's can also be a perfectly acceptable soundtrack for a girls' trip. Put on your rhinestones and feather boas, crank the music, and get ready to "bet on love and let it ride," as Faith Hill sings. 

Did you enjoy this slideshow? Follow us on MSN to see more of our exclusive entertainment content.

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Solar eclipse playlist: 20 songs to rock out to on your cosmic adventure

AP Texas and Oklahoma chief photographer Julio Cortez, talks about the best tips and tricks to get the perfect shot during upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. (AP Video/Shelby Lum)

This combination of images shows Bad Bunny, from left, David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen and Taylor Swift. (AP Photo)

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LOS ANGELES (AP) — The total solar eclipse is quickly approaching. While you prepare to hit the road towards the path of total darkness or anticipate hours of traffic coming out of your watch party , you’ll need something to listen to. And we’ve got your back.

Across 20 tracks, here’s a comprehensive playlist of total solar eclipse (and total solar eclipse-adjacent) songs to listen to while preparing to take in the wonders of the universe on Monday. Listen to the full playlist on Spotify .

A classic eclipse song: “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler

There is no more appropriate song than Bonnie Tyler’s karaoke classic, “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” Try not to start a singalong with this one.

A rockin’ eclipse song: “Blinded by the Light” by Bruce Springsteen

Not the synth-y cover by Manfred Mann’s Earth Band — Bruce Springsteen’s spirited “Blinded by the Light” is an eclipse song for the ages, or at least for those hoping to put a little boogie in their viewing experience.

An eclipse song to dance to: “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd

One of the greatest pop songs of the last decade, The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” is not only an ideal song for speeding down a highway in the darkness — safely, of course — but also a Max Martin-produced earworm that will crawl into your brain and lodge itself there forevermore.

A grounded eclipse song, to remind you of the Earth: “Solar Eclipse” by YoungBoy Never Broke Again

The best YoungBoy Never Broke Again tracks bring the listener into his world: He names loved ones, he dives deep into his pain and he transforms it into affecting raps. “Solar Eclipse” centers his own mortality and what would happen to his kids if something were to happen to him. A total solar eclipse can be a time for existential thinking: This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for many, and so it is important to value that lifetime.

An eclipse song for the introspective listener: “Moon at the Window” by Joni Mitchell

In Joni Mitchell’s “Moon at the Window,” a lover looks out towards the sky and sees “ghosts of the future / phantoms of the past,” the folk legend sings atop jazzy instrumentation. There’s a kind of melancholic whimsy here, and lyrical poetry, which makes this song an appropriate listen for a solar eclipse.

A throwback eclipse song: “Blue Moon” by Billie Holiday

What is a space-themed playlist without a “Blue Moon”? Originally written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart in 1934, the song has been covered countless times over the decades, but no other hits with the soul of Billie Holiday’s 1952 take.

An eclipse song for the arty folk: “Starman” by David Bowie

If space is the final frontier, David Bowie knew of its powers — and on Tuesday, with a quick listen to “Starman,” we can all try a bit of his Ziggy Stardust .

An eclipse song for people very much in touch with the universe: “Space is the Place” by Sun Ra

The beauty of Sun Ra’s “Space is the Place” is that it’s taken from a 1970s Afrofuturist film of the same name. Start with the song and watching the eclipse in real time, end with a screening.

A righteous eclipse song: “Eclipse” by Earl Sweatshirt

Consider the distorted, reversed production of Earl Sweatshirt’s short rap track as an interlude for this playlist — a palate cleanser with a message.

The “it isn’t an eclipse song, but it also isn’t not an eclipse song” eclipse song: “Moonlight” by Jay-Z

“Moonlight,” an undercelebrated cut from Jay-Z’s momentous 2017 album “4:44,” considers frequent exploitation of Black artists in entertainment. It’s not an eclipse song in a traditional sense but considering his once-in-a-lifetime star power — and that of his collaborators — it feels like a fitting inclusion.

A sexy eclipse song: “Moonlight” by Kali Uchis

Colombian American musician Kali Uchis’ songs center love, loss and divine femininity — and so does her hit “Moonlight.” In this sweet moment of pop astrology, the moon is a source of power.

An eclipse song for the Swiftie in your life: “Seven” by Taylor Swift

Looking up at the sky as a symbol of ambition, hope, nostalgia or innocence has a long literary history. It also functions as the perfect visual for Taylor Swift’s “Folklore” cut “Seven.” Swifties know what’s up.

An idyllic eclipse song: “Moonshadow” by Cat Stevens

What is more fitting for an afternoon eclipse than the soft folk stylings of Cat Stevens’ “Moonshadow”? It doubles as a great road trip song for country road driving, too, so for those who are traveling — take note.

A dreamy eclipse song: “The Moon and the Sky” by Sade

From Sade’s 2010 comeback album “Soldier of Love” comes “The Moon and the Sky,” a soft soul song good enough for Earth and what exists above.

A romantic eclipse song: “Eclipse” by JACE Carrillo and Alyko

Venezuelan Canadian pop singer JACE Carrillo teams up with producer Alyko for this summery, romantic slow burn, “Eclipse.” This is the one you’ll want to turn up if you’re planning on watching the total eclipse with your partner.

An eclipse song to get the afternoon party started: “La Noche de Anoche” by Bad Bunny and Rosalía

The eclipse will hit North America in the afternoon, so a full-on club banger is a little too nighttime for this daytime event. However, some sultry down-tempo reggaetón? That’s on the table, courtesy Bad Bunny and Rosalía .

An R&B-pop bop for the eclipse: “Eclipse” by LOONA’s Kim Lip

Not long after K-pop girl group LOONA debuted, Kim Lip was announced its sixth member and her solo single “Eclipse” was released — a R&B bubblegum-pop song that confirmed her talents. Seven years on, its pleasant pop is worthy of this playlist.

An eclipse song that will immediately inspire a dance lesson: “Eclipse” by GOT 7

K-pop boy group Got7 marry future bass and anthemic rock in this barnburner of a pop song. Give yourself a few hours to learn the choreography to keep yourself occupied while you wait for totality to hit.

An explosive eclipse song for those who feel lonely when the moon covers the sun: “Eclipse” by MAMAMOO’s Moonbyul

Moonbyul’s “Eclipse” begins with a fake out: delicate production explodes into hard-hitting trap production and a gothic chorus — loud synths and chugging guitars. “When the moon covers the sun / It feels like I’m alone,” the K-pop girl group member sings, but that isolation doesn’t last long.

The eclipse song that has to be present on every eclipse playlist: “Eclipse” by Pink Floyd

Can an eclipse playlist exist without ending with the massive drums and Hammond organ of Pink Floyd’s “Eclipse”? We think not.

For more coverage of the 2024 total solar eclipse, visit https://apnews.com/hub/solar-eclipse-2024 .