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Road trips can be the best—or the longest—depending on how you plan them.
That’s why audiobooks are my go-to for making those hours in the car so much better.
Whether you’re navigating endless highways or scenic backroads, the right story can make time fly.
I’ve put together a list of audiobooks that are perfect for road trips, from thrillers that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat to laugh-out-loud comedies that everyone in the car will love.
Trust me, once you start listening, you might find yourself wishing the drive was just a little longer!
1. This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
In 1932, four orphans—Odie, Albert, Mose, and Emmy—run away from a harsh boarding school and set off down the Mississippi River in search of a better life.
As they meet all sorts of people on their journey, you can’t help but feel the power of human connection and the beauty of the landscape.
The way they support each other through struggles is so heartwarming—it really shows how much we all need someone to rely on.
2. The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins
When Ruby McTavish dies, she leaves behind an incredible fortune and a tangled family history.
Camden, her adopted son, doesn’t want anything to do with it, but eventually, he and his wife, Jules, are pulled back to his family’s estate.
I love the mystery behind Ruby’s life and the strange, unsettling vibe in the house.
It’s the ultimate family drama with dark secrets that keeps you guessing about what’s really going on.
3. Astrophysics for People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson
This book breaks down the big questions about space and the universe in small, digestible chunks.
Tyson’s wit makes complicated science fun to read. I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did!
I feel this is perfect if you’ve got a short amount of time but still want to feel like you’re learning something deep about the cosmos.
4. None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell
Alix, a podcaster, meets Josie, a woman who thinks her life is interesting enough to be the subject of Alix’s true crime series.
As Josie gets deeper into Alix’s life, things get creepier and more dangerous.
The twist in this one really threw me! It’s a wild ride of secrets and dark truths, and I couldn’t put it down once things started going.
5. The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
Danny and Maeve’s childhood is upended when they’re forced to leave their home, the Dutch House, after their stepmother takes over.
The story of their bond and how they deal with their past is beautifully written.
It’s a tale about family, loss, and the things we can’t shake off, no matter how much time passes.
I couldn’t help but feel for them as they try to move on but can’t quite escape the shadow of that house.
6. The Woman In Me by Britney Spears
Britney’s memoir is her chance to speak out about everything she’s been through, from fame to personal struggles to finding freedom.
It’s raw, honest, and surprisingly uplifting.
I loved how she reclaimed her story and the humor she brings to it, even while sharing the tough parts of her life.
7. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
This book takes you on a journey back to childhood where the line between fantasy and reality starts to blur.
It’s both magical and eerie as the main character recalls a past filled with dark, supernatural events.
I thought the story was so hauntingly beautiful, and the way Gaiman captures childhood memory is spot on—it was both comforting and unsettling at the same time.
8. Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Daisy and The Six’s rise to fame in the 1970s is told through interviews, and it shows the drama, music, and passion that made them legends.
It’s so fun to read about their wild lives, especially Daisy’s fiery personality and Billy’s struggles with fame.
The tension between them and the band’s breakup had me hooked. It’s like being inside the world of a real rock band, full of highs and lows.
9. All My Knotted Up Life by Beth Moore
Beth Moore’s memoir dives into her personal journey of faith, struggle, and growth.
She’s open and vulnerable about her challenges, and the way she shares her life’s ups and downs is both inspiring and relatable. I
appreciated how she made me reflect on strength, faith, and the messy beauty of life.
10. One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle
After her mom dies, Katy heads to Italy on a trip they were supposed to take together.
But things take a surprising turn when Katy meets her mom—young and full of life again.
This is a heartwarming and emotional story of rediscovering a lost connection and learning to see your parent in a new light.
The magic of the Amalfi Coast just adds to the beauty of this story, and I loved how it made me think about the relationship we have with our parents.
Who knew road trips could be this entertaining?
So, crank up the volume, grab your snacks, and enjoy the ride.
Got any road trip audiobook recommendations?
Share them below—I’m always up for adding more to my playlist!
