Road trips are always more fun with a good list of songs. Click here to find out the best road trip songs you need to play on your next adventure.
The holiday season is nearly upon us. It’s a great season to take time off and travel. Whether you’re planning an epic camping trip or an adventure across the country, no trip is complete without a tracklist.
That’s why we’re putting together a list of the best road trip songs for the journey. Whether you’re cruising alone or traveling in good company, these tracks are bound to create the best karaoke/jam fest of the year.
The 10 Best Road Trip Songs for Your Next Playlist
We live in an age where we are constantly scouring royalty free music or self-proclaimed theme songs to capture our video adventures. Yet sometimes it’s better to put down the camera and just embrace the music.
This playlist fits into the latter category. It’s blend of new jams, classic tunes, and catchy ballads will appeal to more than one music-loving generation as it pulls you into the moment.
So pull out your iTunes and get ready to start downloading. These songs are worth every penny as you add them to your driving playlist!
1. Rascal Flatts’ “Life is a Highway” Will Get the Car Rolling
Nothing sets the mood as you drive onto the interstate quite like “Life is a Highway” by iconic country band Rascal Flatts. The catchy riffs and head bobbing beat couple with lyrics everybody in the car is sure to know by heart.
It’s an anthem that embraces the spirit of youth and old-school American freedom, making it the perfect opening track. By the end of this fantastic tune, you’ll be fully immersed in the thrill of a good road trip.
2. Come Out of Your Cage with The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside”
Picture it: your hand absentmindedly riding the wind outside of your window as you feel the breeze sweeping across your face. The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside” thumps loud in the speakers, reminding you of nostalgic romances of the past.
You smile at the simplicity of your youth, the words “open up my eager eyes” stirring you to embrace the road ahead.
Yes, this alternative classic is perfect for awakening those warm, old feelings while embracing the joy of future days yet to unfold.
3. Bring in the Base with Childish Gambino’s “This is America”
What modern playlist is complete without Childish Gambino?
None, that’s what.
The steady duel of hard-hitting rap lyrics against the passionate glimpses of classic soul will have you dancing while talking about this artist’s ability to challenge the state of modern society.
4. Get Your Kicks with The Rolling Stones’ “Route 66”
Just like “Life is a Highway”, The Rolling Stones’ “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66” is a classic must-have for any driven journey. Your toes will automatically start tapping when you hear this song come on the speakers.
It’s timeless lyrics embrace the thrill of a good road trip, especially if you’re heading down America’s historic Mother Road.
5. Sink into Good Vibes with Jason Mraz’s “Have It All”
No one sparks good vibes quite like Jason Mraz. His song “Have It All” is an anthem for joy and good wishes. The track’s mantra-like lyrics and croonful vocals will have you feeling better with every verse.
Turn it up and sing every line at the top of your lungs. You’ll be loving humanity and every passing mile as you smile your way to your destination.
6. Channel Your Tough Side with Alanis Morisette’s “You Oughta Know”
Let’s be honest: we all love to channel our inner emo side and nothing says angst quite like Alanis Morisette. Her 1995 single, “You Oughta Know”, took the radio by storm with its unapologetic fire that still burns today.
Tap into it. Let the fire catch inside of you with every abrasive lyric as you remember you are a living, breathing force to be reckoned with.
7. Dig into Those Bluesy Ballads with Red Hot Chili Pepper’s “Under the Bridge”
This ballad is easily one of Red Hot Chili Pepper’s best and it’s perfect, especially if you’re driving solo. Its whispers of a tragic past are woven into the personification of the City of Angels that will have you connecting with Anthony Kiedis’ every lonely word.
What’s so great about that? Like a great movie, sad songs make us empathize in a way that reminds us of our own humanity. We like to feel, even if it’s the sad and distant reminders of someone else’s life.
Plus, it’s the Red Hot Chili Peppers. No one spices up rock music quite the way they do.
8. Jam to the Aerosmith’s Fast-Paced Classic “Walk This Way”
It’s a good thing Steven Tyler breezes through these lyrics because if you thought too much about them, you may not sing them so loud. Yet what may just be the classic band’s most well known single, “Walk This Way” is catchy in a way few songs today can rival.
Everything about this tune captures the essence of old-school rock and roll. If you have a top to roll down, this is the song you need to sing to that limitless sky above.
9. Shift Gears with Incubus’ “Drive”
Incubus: a true work of musical art born of the 90’s alternative era, they combine thought-provoking lyrics with gritty rock perfect for a long drive. This is especially true of their song, “Drive.”
The aptly named song echoes the driving theme in their lyrics, giving you a theme appropriate song to jam to and possibly some soul searching, too.
10. Make It a Rock Hard Musical with Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”
No one put on a show like Queen. Make your trip an epic tribute to this legendary band with your own rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
We all know the lyrics and the emotion it will rip from your heart will almost convince you you’re ready for the Broadway stage. Passengers will strum their air guitar in a heartfelt guitar solo, followed by air pianos and high-pitched “Galileo”s other drivers will hear through their windows for a mile in every direction.
Planning to Travel on a Budget?
Are you looking to pair the best road trip songs with an affordable adventure that doesn’t compromise on fun? If so, hop on over to our budget travel section. We share several useful tips on how to travel the country and beyond, even on a shoestring budget.
Life is too short not to seize the moment when you can and embrace adventure. Grab a friend, plan a trip, and turn up the tunes.
“Life is a highway,” after all!
