Road trips are exciting, but having a library of songs for road trips is a must have! Embarking on a road trip usually means adventure. Many are filled with with unforgettable moments and memories. Whether you’re cruising along the coast, exploring rugged mountain terrain, or cruising by vast stretches of countryside, there’s nothing quite like hitting the open road with your favorite people (or by yourself, for that matter). And what better way to enhance your road trip experience than with a killer songs for your playlist? From classic rock anthems to catchy pop hits, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best songs for road trips to keep your spirits high, your feet tapping, and your voice singing along. So, let’s hit the road and crank up the tunes!
On Top of Our List of Songs for Road Trips: Holiday Road
Yes, I have arbitrarily placed this on the top of the list. It’s the first things we play when cranking up the motorhome to head out. Holiday Road by Lindsey Buckingham was originally featured in the 1983 movie “National Lampoon’s Vacation” and has since become a staple for road trippers everywhere. With its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics, “Holiday Road” captures the excitement and adventure of hitting the open road. The song’s chorus is especially memorable, with Buckingham’s vocals declaring “Holiday road, oh oh oh, holiday road!” This song is guaranteed to put you in a good mood and get you ready for your next great camping, RV or road adventure.
Wanna Be Starting a Road Trip
Many road trip songs are known for their upbeat and energetic vibes. That said, there are some that offer a different kind of energy. “Wanna Be Starting Something” by Michael Jackson is one such song. This tune just happens to be perfect for long drives on the open road. The song was released in 1983 as part of Jackson’s legendary “Thriller” album. It features a catchy beat and lively vocals that make it an ideal pick for any road trip playlist. With its pulsing rhythm and Jackson’s unmistakable voice, “Wanna Be Starting Something” will keep you engaged and alert throughout your journey. Plus, the song’s uplifting message about overcoming obstacles and rising above negativity is sure to inspire you as you take on the challenges of the road ahead.
Your Songs for Road Trips Playlist must include My Church
Put your car in drive. If you’re looking for a song that perfectly captures the feeling of freedom and adventure that comes with hitting the open road, look no further than “My Church” by Maren Morris. This hit country song is a must-have for any road trip playlist, with its soaring vocals and catchy chorus that will have you singing along in no time. The song’s lyrics are all about finding peace and solace in music, and how it can be the perfect escape from the stress and chaos of daily life. Whether you’re driving through sprawling countryside or exploring new cities, “My Church” is the perfect soundtrack for your journey. So, turn up the volume, roll down the windows, and let Maren Morris take you on a musical road trip that you won’t soon forget.
Heading South? Wagon Wheel by Darius Rucker
One road trip song that has become an absolute classic is “Wagon Wheel” by Darius Rucker. Originally written by Bob Dylan and later completed by Ketch Secor of Old Crow Medicine Show, this song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but it’s Rucker’s version that has become a staple of road trip playlists everywhere. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, “Wagon Wheel” is the perfect song to sing along to as you cruise down the highway. The song’s lyrics are all about the joys of traveling and experiencing new things, making it the ideal soundtrack for any road trip adventure.
Born to Be Wild – Steppenwolf
When it comes to songs for road trips, few are as iconic as “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf. This classic rock anthem has been a favorite of road trippers for generations, with its driving guitar riff and powerful vocals perfectly capturing the feeling of freedom and adventure that comes with hitting the open road. The song’s lyrics are all about the thrill of the journey and the excitement of exploring new horizons, making it the perfect soundtrack for any road trip adventure. Whether you’re driving a motorcycle, a motorhome, or just a regular car, “Born to Be Wild” is sure to get your blood pumping and your spirits soaring.
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Anything with Cars are Songs for Road Trips – Gary Numan
This synth-pop hit from the late ’70s is all about the joy of driving and the sense of freedom that comes with hitting the pavement. With its catchy melody and futuristic sound, “Cars” perfectly captures the excitement of cruising down the highway with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. The song’s lyrics are all about the love of cars and the thrill of driving, making it the perfect anthem for any road trip adventure.
Fun, Fun, Fun – The Beach Boys
We had to add at least one song from the Beach Boys, and “Fun Fun Fun” is a perfect choice. Released in 1964, this upbeat track is all about cruising in a car and having a good time, making it the ideal soundtrack for any adventure. With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, “Fun Fun Fun” captures the excitement and energy of driving with the top down and the music blasting. The song’s iconic chorus, which repeats the phrase “And she’ll have fun, fun, fun ’til her daddy takes the T-bird away,” is sure to get stuck in your head and keep you singing along for miles. So, whether you’re driving to the beach or just taking a leisurely drive through the countryside, be sure to add “Fun Fun Fun” to your songs for road trips playlist for a dose of classic Beach Boys fun.
Rev Your Engines: Add Rihanna’s Shut Up and Drive
For those looking to add a bit of edge to their road trip playlist, “Shut Up and Drive” by Rihanna is a perfect addition. Released in 2007, this catchy pop hit is all about the thrill of driving fast and taking risks, making it the perfect anthem for any adventurous road trip. With its driving beat and empowering lyrics, “Shut Up and Drive” is sure to get your heart racing and your adrenaline pumping as you speed down the highway. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Shut up and drive, drive, drive,” is a powerful reminder to focus on the road and keep pushing forward, no matter what obstacles may come your way.
Get Your Groove On: Add Low Rider by War
If you’re looking for a funky and upbeat song to add to your road trip playlist, look no further than “Low Rider” by War. Released in 1975, this classic tune is all about cruising around in a low-rider car, making it the perfect soundtrack for any road trip adventure. With its catchy bassline and groovy horns, “Low Rider” will get you moving and grooving as you drive down the highway. The song’s iconic chorus, which repeats the phrase “Low rider, don’t use no gas now,” is a playful nod to the low-rider lifestyle and the joy of cruising around town with the top down.
Get Inspired – Imagine Dragons’ On Top of the World
If you’re in the mood for a song that will inspire you and get you pumped up for your road trip adventure, look no further than “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons. This upbeat and uplifting song is all about seizing the day and living life to the fullest, making it the perfect anthem for any road trip journey. With its catchy melody and empowering lyrics, “On Top of the World” is sure to lift your spirits and fill you with excitement as you hit the open road. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “I’m on top of the world, hey,” is a powerful reminder to embrace the moment and enjoy every second of your road trip adventure.
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Alan Jackson – It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” by Alan Jackson is a fun and upbeat addition to any songs for road trips. This lively country hit, released in 2003, is all about living life to the fullest and seizing the day. With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” captures the sense of freedom and relaxation that comes with being on the road and exploring new places. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “It’s five o’clock somewhere,” is a reminder to enjoy the moment and let go of our worries and stress.
Route 66 Adventure: Get Your Kicks with Nat King Cole
“Get Your Kicks on Route 66” by Nat King Cole is a classic road trip song that deserves a spot on any playlist. This upbeat and lively tune is all about the iconic Route 66 highway that stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, making it the perfect soundtrack for any road trip adventure. With its catchy melody and fun lyrics, “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” captures the excitement and freedom of driving down a long and winding road with the wind in your hair. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Get your kicks on Route 66,” is a playful nod to the joy of exploring new destinations and taking in the sights and sounds of the open road. So, whether you’re driving along Route 66 or just exploring new highways, be sure to add “Get Your Kicks on Route 66.”
U2: Where the Streets Have No Name
Where the Streets Have No Name” by U2 is a perfect addition to any road trip playlist. This iconic song, released in 1987, is all about the desire to escape the mundane and discover new and exciting places. With its driving rhythm and soaring vocals, “Where the Streets Have No Name” captures the sense of adventure and possibility that comes with embarking on a road trip. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “I want to run, I want to hide, I want to tear down the walls that hold me inside,” is a powerful reminder to break free from the confines of everyday life and explore the world around you.
Rock Your Road Trip with Motley Crue Home Sweet Home
For those who love a good power ballad, “Home Sweet Home” by Motley Crue is a must-have addition to any road songs for road trips playlist. This classic rock tune, released in 1985, is all about the longing for home and the comfort of returning to familiar surroundings. With its powerful vocals and emotional lyrics, “Home Sweet Home” captures the bittersweet feeling of being on the road and missing loved ones back home. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “I’m on my way, I’m on my way, home sweet home,” is a powerful reminder that no matter where your travels may take you, there’s always a place to call home.
Chill Out and Take it Easy with Jimmy Buffett’s Slow Lane
“Slow Lane” by Jimmy Buffett is a perfect addition for those who want to take things at a more leisurely pace. This laid-back tune is all about enjoying the journey and taking in the sights and sounds of the open road, making it the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing road trip adventure. With its mellow melody and soothing vocals, “Slow Lane” is sure to help you unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life as you cruise down the highway. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “I’m on the slow lane, taking my time,” is a reminder to slow down and savor the moment, rather than rushing through life at breakneck speed.
Tom Cochrane: Life is a Highway
How about “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane? This classic rock hit, released in 1991. With its catchy melody and driving beat, “Life is a Highway” captures the sense of freedom and possibility. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Life is a highway, I wanna ride it all night long,” is a powerful reminder of the excitement and joy that can be found in the journey of life.
Discover the Beauty of America’s Landscape with Blake Shelton’s God’s Country
“God’s Country” by Blake Shelton is a powerful and soulful addition to any road trip playlist. This country hit, released in 2019, is all about the beauty and majesty of the American landscape, and the awe-inspiring sights that can be found in every corner of the country. With its driving beat and soaring vocals, “God’s Country” captures the sense of adventure and wonder that comes with exploring new terrain and experiencing the grandeur of nature. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Yeah, I saw the light in a sunrise, sittin’ back in a 40 on the muddy riverside,” is a reminder of the simple pleasures and profound moments that can be found in even the most unexpected places.
Take a Trip Down Memory Lane with John Denver’s Country Roads
This classic folk tune, released in 1971, is all about the simple pleasures of life and the beauty of the countryside. With its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Country Roads” captures the sense of nostalgia and longing that comes with being away from home and missing loved ones. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Country roads, take me home to the place I belong,” is a powerful reminder of the importance of roots and the comfort of returning to familiar surroundings.
Tim McGraw and Taylor Swift’s Highway Don’t Care
“Highway Don’t Care” by Tim McGraw and Taylor Swift is a perfect addition to any road trip playlist for those who love country-pop. This catchy tune, released in 2013, is all about the thrill of the open road and the sense of freedom that comes with exploring new horizons. With its upbeat tempo and powerful vocals, “Highway Don’t Care” captures the sense of adventure and possibility that comes with embarking on a road trip journey. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “Baby, you a song, you make me wanna roll my windows down and cruise,” is a playful nod to the joy of cruising down the highway with the wind in your hair and your favorite tunes on the radio.
Willie Nelson’s Songs For Toad Trips: On the Road Again
No road trip playlist would be complete without “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson. This classic country tune, released in 1980, is all about the joy and adventure of life on the open road. With its lively beat and upbeat vocals, “On the Road Again” captures the excitement and freedom that comes with exploring new places and experiencing new adventures. The song’s chorus, which repeats the phrase “On the road again, just can’t wait to get on the road again,” is a powerful reminder of the endless possibilities and opportunities that await us on the journey of life. So, whether you’re driving through the desert or the mountains, be sure to add “On the Road Again” to your road trip playlist for a dose of classic country charm that will keep you entertained and inspired for miles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a great road trip playlist is the perfect way to enhance your journey and make your time on the road even more enjoyable. Whether you’re driving through the mountains, the countryside, or the city, these songs for road trips are sure to keep you entertained, energized, and inspired. From classic rock hits to indie folk pop tunes, and everything in between, there’s a song for every mood and every moment on the road. So, the next time you hit the highway, be sure to create a playlist filled with your favorite road trip songs, and get ready to enjoy the ride of your life!
