There’s nothing quite like the open road. Whether your next road trip is solo, with friends, or with the kiddos, you’ll need something to keep you occupied while the miles roll by.
We scoured the web and are sharing the top podcasts for road trips.
1. This American Life
A classic for a reason, This American Life transforms ordinary stories into extraordinary listening experiences. Each episode revolves around a theme, featuring personal narratives that unfold like mini-movies for your ears.
Travel writers at Conde Nast Traveler have called it “the perfect road trip companion” because of how each episode draws you in with unexpected twists and emotional depth.
2. Serial
When AFAR Magazine compiled their list of “unmissable road trip entertainment,” Serial earned the top spot. This groundbreaking investigative podcast unfolds one true story across an entire season, taking unexpected turns that will have you sitting in your parked car long after reaching your destination.
As the first podcast to win a Pulitzer Prize, Serial has redefined audio storytelling with its meticulous journalism and addictive narrative style.
3. Radiolab
Recommended by Outside Magazine as “the podcast that makes science fascinating for everyone,” Radiolab blends curiosity-driven journalism with innovative sound design.
Hosts Lulu Miller and Latif Nasser explore questions that span science, history, and human experience. The show’s unique approach of weaving information into music creates an immersive listening experience that perfectly complements the changing landscapes outside your window.
4. My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
For those who find that a little mystery makes the miles go faster, Road & Track suggests this true crime comedy podcast. Hosts Karen and Georgia combine compelling crime stories with genuine friendship and humor.
What makes this show ideal for long drives is the conversational format—it feels like you’re part of a lively discussion with friends rather than just passively listening.
5. Stuff You Should Know
Travel website The Points Guy rates this as “the ultimate road trip podcast” because it covers such a wide range of topics. Hosts Josh and Chuck explore everything from champagne to chaos theory, true crime to historical events.
Their engaging, conversational style makes complex subjects accessible and entertaining—perfect for making those long stretches of highway not just bearable but educational.
6. The Moth
Featured in National Geographic Traveler’s “Essential Road Trip Entertainment” list, The Moth presents true stories told live without notes.
What makes this perfect for the open road is the intimate connection created between storyteller and listener. As landscapes change outside your window, you’ll be transported to different worlds through personal narratives that range from heartbreaking to hilarious.
7. TED Talks Daily
TED Talks Daily remains a road trip essential. As Romper explains, “TED Talks always stimulate new thoughts and ideas delivered by experts and individuals who have an excess of knowledge to share on a subject.”
These bite-sized doses of inspiration and innovation are perfect for driving—just long enough to engage your mind without requiring hours of concentration.
8. Planet Money
According to Family Vacation Critic, Planet Money is “the rare economics podcast that’s actually entertaining enough to make you forget you’re stuck in traffic.”
The show’s hosts take complex economic concepts and tie them to everyday life in surprising ways. Whether you’re financially savvy or economics-averse, the storytelling approach makes monetary matters fascinating—and might even have you discussing fiscal policy with your travel companions.
9. How Did This Get Made?
Men’s Journal recommends this hilarious podcast for road trips when you need to stay alert and entertained. Comedians Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas dissect notoriously bad movies with wit and wonder.
The genuine laughter and camaraderie between hosts creates a party atmosphere in your car. Plus, their frequent guest appearances from comedy stars add fresh energy to keep your journey lively.
10. You’re Wrong About
You’re Wrong About continues to be, as PopSugar noted, a show that “will definitely get everyone talking.” Host Sarah Marshall reexamines misunderstood people and events from history, challenging conventional wisdom with fresh insights.
Perfect for sparking thoughtful conversation with your travel companions, You’re Wrong About turns drive time into mind-expanding time.
Our GoodLife Podcast
Our GoodLife Podcast is a place where friends and family have a chance to hang out and talk about whatever is on your mind. It’s a friends sitting around a bonfire kind of podcast. People caring about people kind of podcast. No religious or political barriers. sit back and have fun.
Tales From Travellers
In Tales From Travellers, Greg Shoulder invites expatriates, world wanderers, and international transplants to share their journeys. Each episode features conversations about adapting to foreign cultures, forming meaningful connections abroad, navigating careers in new countries, and raising families far from home. Whether you’re a globe-trotting veteran or contemplating your first overseas adventure, this podcast provides both valuable insights and entertaining stories for anyone interested in the international lifestyle.
🚗 How to Start Your Own Road Trip Worthy Podcast
Creating a binge-worthy podcast perfect for listeners on road trips starts with identifying a compelling theme that maintains listener interest across multiple episodes. Focus on storytelling that hooks audiences quickly and leaves them wanting more – think mysterious true crime investigations, immersive historical narratives, or entertaining educational content with clear episode-to-episode connections.
Keep episodes a consistent length (30-45 minutes works well for driving attention spans) and invest in quality audio equipment to ensure clear sound even over road noise. Batch-record and release several episodes at once so new listeners can immediately continue the journey, and incorporate engaging transitions that create natural pauses without breaking the overall narrative flow that makes drivers eager to hit “play next” at each destination stop.
With unlimited audio storage, episode scheduling, social media integration, a free podcasting website, and unmatched customer support, RSS.com is the #1 way to start and grow a podcast. Start your show today!
Remember, the best road trip podcasts capture not just destinations, but the journey itself.
