Key Highlights
- Discover the best podcasts to make your upcoming road trips more entertaining and memorable.
- Our list includes options for the whole family, from engaging stories to science fun for younger listeners.
- For long drives, consider binge-worthy shows with extensive back catalogs or a compelling limited series.
- You can easily find a single episode to enjoy or download a full playlist for hours of audio content.
- Whether it’s a solo journey or a family road trip, the right podcast can make the miles fly by.
Introduction
Are you planning your next big adventure on the open road? Long hours in the car can be a drag, but they don’t have to be. The right entertainment can transform your journey, and some of the best podcasts are the perfect solution. Instead of endless screen time, audio storytelling can captivate your imagination and engage the whole family. Get ready to discover your new favorite listens that will make your road trips unforgettable.
Top Podcasts for Road Trips: What to Listen to on the Go
Finding the perfect audio entertainment is a good idea to keep everyone happy during long road trips. A great podcast can hold your attention, spark conversations, and make the time pass quickly. Whether you’re looking for gripping stories, laugh-out-loud comedy, or fascinating facts, there’s a show out there for you.
We’ve put together a list of the best podcasts to help you prepare for your next family trip. From true crime to pop culture commentary, these shows offer something for every listener. Get ready to download these awesome podcasts and hit the road.
1. This American Life – Engaging Stories for Every Listener
For a podcast that truly has something for everyone, look no further than This American Life. As a classic in the podcasting world, this weekly show delivers incredible and often surprising stories about everyday people. Each episode is built around a specific theme, weaving together mini-documentaries that are masterfully told. These engaging stories are perfect for the whole family.
The variety of this podcast makes it ideal for long drives. One moment you might be listening to a story about a quirky family vacation, and the next, a deeply moving personal experience. You never know what to expect from a single episode, but you can always count on high-quality storytelling that will make you think and feel.
With a massive back catalog, you can easily find hours of content to keep you engrossed. The show finds the extraordinary in the ordinary, making it a fantastic way to feel more connected to the world while you cruise down the highway.
2. Stuff You Should Know – Fascinating Facts for Curious Minds
If you’re looking to fill the miles with some serious brain food, Stuff You Should Know is your go-to podcast. Hosts Josh and Chuck have a special talent for taking any topic, from the history of the margarita to the science of yawning, and making it completely fascinating. It feels like having two knowledgeable and slightly quirky friends explain the world to you.
The show is a perfect road trip companion because of its sheer variety. You can jump from an episode about the Y2K bug to one about making cheese, creating an auditory buffet of fun facts for the curious mind. It’s the ultimate source of trivia, and you’ll constantly learn surprising details you never considered.
With a massive back catalog, you could drive across the country without running out of episodes. The hosts have great chemistry, and their conversational style makes even complex subjects easy to understand. This is a constant reminder that there’s always more to discover.
3. The Moth – Real-Life Tales to Make Hours Fly By
Get ready for some seriously good storytelling with The Moth. This podcast features people sharing true, real-life tales from their lives, told live on stage without any notes. It’s like a more personal and often more surprising version of a TED Talk. For a first-time listener, it’s an amazing introduction to the power of authentic narratives.
You’ll hear stories about everything from awkward first dates to life-changing moments, all delivered by everyday people. The raw honesty of The Moth is what makes it so compelling. You’re hearing unfiltered and unpolished experiences, which makes the stories incredibly powerful and a great way to pass the time on road trips.
The variety of themes means there’s always something new to discover. Some episodes are even dedicated to themes like road trips, featuring stories about experiences that happen inside a car. It’s a wonderful way to feel connected to others, even when you’re alone on a long drive.
4. Armchair Expert – Thoughtful Conversations and Surprising Guests
If you’re looking for a podcast that feels like you’re hanging out with your favorite celebrities, Armchair Expert is a perfect match. Host Dax Shepard and co-host Monica Padman sit down with actors, musicians, and scientists for incredibly candid and often hilarious conversations. They are not afraid to discuss messy, awkward, or deeply personal topics.
This podcast offers thoughtful conversations that go beyond typical celebrity interviews. You’ll find yourself laughing out loud at their unfiltered takes on life, relationships, and pop culture. It’s like getting a backstage pass to the real lives of famous people, offering a unique form of cultural commentary.
With a huge volume of episodes, Armchair Expert is great for binge-listening on a long drive. You can get lost for hours hopping from one fascinating interview to another. The show’s authenticity creates a space where guests feel comfortable sharing their vulnerabilities, making for truly memorable listening.
5. No Such Thing As A Fish – Trivia and Comedy for a Lively Drive
For a weekly dose of pure, unadulterated trivia goodness, you’ve found your match in No Such Thing As A Fish. The hosts, who are also researchers for the BBC show QI, each share their favorite fact of the week. These aren’t just any facts; they are the weird, wonderful, and downright bizarre things they’ve stumbled upon.
This podcast is perfect for your next family road trip because it’s a delightful blend of comedy and education. The hosts are genuinely hilarious, and their natural banter makes the show incredibly entertaining. You’ll learn fun facts about everything from historical oddities to scientific quirks.
It’s easy to jump into any episode, so you don’t need to worry about starting from the beginning. This show is a great antidote to highway silence and is sure to spark laughter and curiosity among passengers of all ages.
6. My Dad Wrote a Porno – Outrageous Humor for Adult Audiences
Prepare for a laugh riot with this one, but be warned: it’s strictly for adult audiences. The premise of the podcast My Dad Wrote a Porno is as wild as it sounds. A man’s father wrote an erotic novel series, and now he and two friends read it aloud, offering hilarious commentary.
The show is full of outrageous humor and pure British wit. You’ll follow along as the hosts react to the… unique prose, and you’ll likely find yourself snorting with laughter at the most inappropriate moments. It’s the kind of lighthearted escape that’s guaranteed to make the miles fly by.
You can start from the very first episode and work your way through the entire saga. This show has gained a massive following, partly through word-of-mouth and social media, because it’s just that funny. It’s a perfect choice if you need a heavy dose of humor on a long drive.
7. Wow in the World – Science Fun for Families
Looking for a show that the whole family can enjoy? Wow in the World is a fantastic choice, especially for those with younger listeners. Hosts Guy Raz and Mindy Thomas guide kids on a journey into the wonders of the world, covering science, technology, and new discoveries.
This podcast delivers science fun in a way that is accessible and engaging for all ages. Each 20-30 minute episode is a delightful learning experience that encourages curiosity and discovery. The hosts have an infectious energy that makes complex topics easy to understand and exciting to learn about.
For a long family road trip, Wow in the World is a great podcast to mix in with other story-based shows. It provides educational content that feels like pure entertainment, keeping kids engaged without resorting to screens.
8. Circle Round – Folktales and Adventures for Kids
One of the best podcasts for family road trips, especially with younger listeners, is Circle Round. Produced by WBUR, this show adapts folktales from different cultures into sound-rich radio plays. The stories are brought to life with original music and notable voices from both stage and screen.
Each 20-30 minute episode is designed to spark meaningful conversations between children and adults. The tales are carefully crafted to be interesting and engaging, so much so that kids will ask to listen to them over and over again. These adventures are perfect for children aged 4 to 10.
With over 100 episodes, Circle Round offers plenty of content to get you through a long drive. The show does a wonderful job of making its stories captivating, providing an opportunity for the entire family to share in the joy of storytelling.
9. Criminal – True Crime Stories for Mystery Lovers
If you’re a fan of mystery and suspense, a great true crime podcast can be the perfect companion for long drives. These shows are for mystery lovers who enjoy deep dives into complex cases, exploring stories of people who have done wrong, been wronged, or gotten caught somewhere in the middle.
A well-crafted true crime podcast can be incredibly gripping, making you question everything you think you know about a particular investigation. The narrative format of these shows is ideal for binge-listening, as each episode builds on the last, keeping you completely absorbed in the story.
For those who enjoy the genre, listening to a compelling series can make the hours on the road disappear. The suspense and detailed storytelling provide a captivating experience that sticks with you long after the episode ends.
10. SmartLess – Celebrity Interviews and Millennial Favorites
For those who enjoy pop culture and celebrity interviews, there are many podcasts that feel like a fun chat with your funniest friends. These shows are often considered millennial favorites because they dissect the lives and careers of various stars with sharp wit and hilarious commentary, saving you from having to read their books yourself.
These podcasts give you all the juicy details and behind-the-scenes stories you crave. With massive back catalogs, you can easily pick and choose which celebrity life you want to explore during your drive. It’s a great way to get your dose of pop culture gossip and commentary.
Whether you’re looking for a good laugh or just want to stay on top of the latest in entertainment, this style of podcast is a perfect choice. It’s an engaging way to pass the time and get a different perspective on the stars you love.
11. Greeking Out – Ancient Stories and History for All Ages
Take a narrative journey into the thrilling world of ancient Greece with Greeking Out by National Geographic Kids. This podcast expertly blends facts with engaging storytelling, introducing young listeners to the tales of gods, heroes, and monsters. It’s an educational and fun listen for the whole family.
The show is perfect for kids aged 8 and up, but adults will find it just as entertaining. Each episode lasts about 20-30 minutes, and with nine seasons available, there’s plenty of Greek mythology to explore. From the very first episode, your kids will likely be hooked.
This is a fantastic podcast to download for a family trip. The stories are so entertaining that you’ll find your kids asking for another episode as soon as you get in the car. It’s a great way to make learning about history an exciting adventure.
12. The Teacher’s Pet – Gripping Investigative Series
If you’re into true crime that has real-world consequences, you need to check out The Teacher’s Pet. This gripping investigative series dives deep into a chilling cold case from the 1980s about a woman who vanished. It’s a perfect example of how a podcast can shed new light on unsolved mysteries.
The host, Hedley Thomas, acts like a detective, uncovering details that were missed by the original investigation. He builds a compelling case, and you’ll find yourself completely absorbed in the narrative. As a limited series, it’s perfect for finishing over a single long road trip.
This is the kind of story that sticks with you long after the episode ends. If you’re looking for a podcast to really sink your teeth into during a long drive, this compelling series is an excellent choice.
13. Story Pirates – Imaginative Tales from Young Storytellers
Celebrate the uniqueness of children’s imaginations with Story Pirates. This creative and hilarious road trip podcast is based on stories written by actual children. A professional cast then brings these imaginative tales to life, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind listening experience.
This podcast is suitable for a wide age range, with episodes lasting anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes. While some younger listeners might find it a bit weird at first, they’ll quickly come to enjoy the zany and creative adventures. It’s an engaging listen for the whole family.
With well over 100 episodes, Story Pirates offers a huge library of content. It’s a fun and quirky show that encourages creativity and is sure to produce some laughs during your car ride.
14. Travel Tales – Road Trip Experiences and Adventures
For those who love the journey as much as the destination, podcasts focused on travel stories can be the ultimate road trip companion. These shows are filled with captivating travel narratives and practical tips, blending adventure with real-life experiences to inspire your own travels. Listening to others’ road trip experiences can get you excited for what’s to come on your own drive.
These podcasts often provide a mix of storytelling and advice, making them both entertaining and useful. You can hear about everything from multi-day bike tours and kayaking trips to climbing mountains and exploring the world’s best cities. It’s a great way to get ideas for your next family adventure.
What makes these travel podcasts great for the road?
- They feature inspiring travel stories from around the globe.
- You get practical tips for family-friendly destinations.
- They celebrate the spirit of adventure and outdoor travel.
- Listening to road trip experiences can make your own journey feel more special.
Comedy and Entertainment Podcasts to Boost Your Road Trip Mood
When the miles start to feel long, nothing lifts the mood like a good laugh. Comedy and entertainment podcasts are perfect for road trips, offering a lighthearted escape that can make anyone in the car smile. These awesome podcasts are designed to keep you amused and engaged, turning a boring drive into a fun-filled journey.
Whether you prefer hilarious celebrity chats or quick-witted trivia, there’s a comedy podcast out there for you. Here are a couple of great options to download for your next trip.
15. Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend – Hilarious Chats for Long Drives
When you need a guaranteed laugh, podcasts featuring hilarious chats with celebrities are a fantastic choice. These shows often feel like you’re sitting in on a conversation with some of the funniest people in entertainment. The unfiltered and candid nature of these interviews leads to genuinely funny moments that are perfect for long drives.
The humor is often spontaneous, stemming from the natural chemistry between the host and their famous guest. You’ll hear amazing anecdotes and off-the-cuff jokes that you wouldn’t find in a typical interview. This format creates a fun and relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for a road trip.
With a deep back catalog of episodes, you can pick your favorite celebrity and enjoy hours of entertainment. It’s a great way to make the time fly by while enjoying some top-tier comedy.
16. No Such Thing As A Fish – Quick-Witted Banter and Fun Facts
For a show that combines humor with intelligence, No Such Thing As A Fish is a top-tier choice. The podcast features four hosts who share their favorite fun facts of the week, but the real magic is in their quick-witted banter. Their conversations are filled with natural humor and genuine surprise, making learning new trivia an absolute blast.
The hosts are incredibly smart and funny, and their chemistry is undeniable. They often get as amused by the facts as the listener, which creates a joyful and engaging experience. This podcast is a perfect mix of bizarre information and hilarious commentary.
It’s an easy podcast to jump into at any point, and each episode is a fresh dose of comedy and knowledge. If you want to laugh while feeling a little bit smarter, this is the perfect show to add to your road trip playlist.
Family-Friendly Podcasts for Road Trips
Taking a family road trip means finding entertainment that the whole family can enjoy. Family-friendly podcasts are a perfect solution, offering engaging content for younger listeners without boring the adults. They captivate kids’ imaginations and provide an opportunity for everyone to share in the joy of storytelling and learning.
From science explainers to soothing bedtime stories, these podcasts are designed to make car time a positive experience for everyone. Here are a few more recommendations that are a big hit with kids and parents alike.
17. Brains On! – Science Explainers for Kids and Parents
Aimed at inquisitive young minds, the Brains On! podcast is all about answering questions sent in by kids. This show encourages curiosity and learning, making complex topics accessible and fun. It’s a wonderful way to sneak some education into your family road trip entertainment.
Each episode is about 30 minutes long, perfect for kids aged 5 to 12. The show covers a wide range of science explainers, from a dog’s sense of smell to how GPS works. It’s a podcast that both kids and parents can learn from and enjoy together.
While kids love it, they may only want to listen to one or two episodes at a time. It’s a great podcast to mix in with other story-based shows to keep the playlist fresh and interesting on a long drive.
18. Story Time – Bedtime Stories On the Road
Perfect for younger listeners, Story Time offers a delightful collection of bedtime stories that can also work wonders on a family road trip. The podcast features soothing tales that span a variety of themes, helping to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere in the car, especially as the day winds down.
With episodes around 15-20 minutes long, this show is great for kids aged 2 to 13. It’s particularly useful for families with little ones who might need some quiet time or a nap during a long drive. The stories are gentle and sweet, making them a comforting choice.
This podcast is excellent to have in your rotation, especially when you need a change of pace from more high-energy shows. It provides a peaceful break that can help everyone in the car relax and recharge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the right podcasts can make all the difference on your road trip, transforming long hours in the car into engaging and entertaining experiences. From captivating stories and fascinating facts to humor that keeps spirits high, there’s a podcast for every type of traveler. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, the variety of options available ensures that everyone will find something they enjoy. So, grab your headphones, load up your playlist, and hit the road! If you need personalized recommendations tailored to your journey, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation. Happy listening!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which podcasts are best for listening with family on a road trip?
For a family road trip, your playlist should include podcasts like Wow in the World, Circle Round, Greeking Out, and Story Pirates. These shows are made for younger listeners but are engaging enough for the whole family, blending education, storytelling, and fun to keep everyone entertained.
How do I download podcasts before starting my road trip?
Use a podcast app like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts. Search for the show you want, and on its page, you’ll see an option to download a single episode or an entire playlist. This saves the audio to your device so you can listen offline without using data.
Which podcasts are ideal for binge-listening during a long drive?
For long drives, a limited series podcast like The Teacher’s Pet is a good idea, as you can finish the story in one trip. Shows with huge back catalogs like This American Life or Stuff You Should Know are also perfect for binge-listening, offering endless hours of content.
Are there true crime podcasts that work well for long drives?
Yes, true crime podcasts are excellent for long drives. A serialized true crime podcast that offers a deep dive into a single case, like The Teacher’s Pet, will keep you completely gripped. The narrative suspense and investigative storytelling make the hours on the road fly by.