Top Road Trip Songs: Expert and Traveler Picks for Your Journey

This year has been nothing short of a whirlwind. As we wrap up the year, international travel is still a no-go, and flying in general seems like a bit of a risky proposition. Consequently, the humble road trip has roared back on our collective radar, as many of us have taken to the road as a way to explore our surroundings near and far.

When discussions of road trips began on Zoom calls and Slack channels, one thing was universally agreed upon: music is essential. A great soundtrack can transform hours of driving into a breezy adventure or the opposite, making you turn back before reaching your destination.

So, what constitutes a great road trip playlist? It begins with the songs. However, with so many incredible choices available, narrowing it down can be challenging. Therefore, we devised a plan.

To create the perfect road trip playlist, we focused on three components: First, we examined Spotify data to identify the most popular driving songs according to the top 100 road trip playlists. Next, we gathered insights from our iBestTravel readers. Lastly, our editors provided input on their favorite tracks. The result is a carefully curated list of 29 high-vibe songs that define ultimate travel music for this year.

The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist

Here are the top road trip songs. For the best listening experience, try playing them in order. Enjoy!

01. “Wake Me Up” by Avicii

Released in 2013, “Wake Me Up” became the first song on Spotify to achieve 200 million streams. This upbeat track instantly elevates your mood, making it a perfect start to our list.

02. “Night Moves” by Bob Seger

“Night Moves” is an easy-listening American rock classic. Named Single of the Year by “Rolling Stone” magazine in 1977, this song sets the right tone for hitting the highway.

03. “Fly Like an Eagle” by Steve Miller Band

As suggested by one of our readers, “Fly Like an Eagle” was essential for this playlist. Released in 1976, this psychedelic rock tune remains as relevant today as ever.

Feed the babies
Who don’t have enough to eat
Shoe the children
With no shoes on their feet
House the people
Livin’ in the street
Oh, oh, there’s a solution

04. “I Feel It Coming” by The Weeknd featuring Daft Punk

This sensual disco-pop track will have you instinctively bobbing along as you cruise down the road.

05. “Cruise” by Florida Georgia Line

This upbeat country song invites you to roll down the windows and enjoy the ride.

06. “Take It Easy” by the Eagles

Don’t let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy; this classic is still a road trip favorite.

07. “Riptide” by Vance Joy

This cheerful folk song was noted by 13 of the top 100 road trip playlists on Spotify and won the World Music Award for World’s Best Song.

08. “Old Town Road (Remix)” by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus

The 2019 remix became an awards darling, solidifying its place as a road trip favorite.

09. “Malibu” by Miley Cyrus

This track evokes memories of leisurely drives down the west coast.

10. “Life in the Fast Lane” by Eagles

This energetic classic is synonymous with an adventurous road trip atmosphere.

However, be cautious—this song can inspire a little too much enthusiasm behind the wheel!

11. “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train

If you’ve never belted out “Hey, Soul Sister” during a drive, you might be missing out on the true road trip experience.

12. “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire

This beloved anthem perfectly complements the joy of driving, especially with the windows down.

13. “Burn The House Down” by AJR

This song originated as a commentary on the U.S. political climate and evolved into the theme for campaign initiatives, making it a modern road trip staple.

14. “Carry On Wayward Son” by Kansas

This timeless song offers encouragement during long drives, providing that much-needed boost of energy.

15. “Dancing In The Moonlight” by Jubël featuring NEIMY

Featured in nine top Spotify road trip playlists, this feel-good cover is made for night-time drives.

16. “Road Trip (2020 Version)” by Convent Bonfires

This indie-rock track embraces the good vibes, making it a perfect fit for your playlist.

17. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey

With nearly a billion streams, this anthem tops the charts, encouraging sing-alongs during your drive.

18. “Circles” by Post Malone

This popular track not only graced our playlist but also won Song of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards.

19. “Feel This Good” by Jackopierce

A relaxing song that paints a picture of a carefree day on the freeway, perfect for your travels.

Woke up this morning, rolled out of bed
My favorite song’s playing inside my head
I go out on the freeway, windows down
Don’t know where I’m going, but it’s good to move around and
Days like this should never end

20. “Big Yellow Taxi” by Lennon & Maisy

This lovely cover pays homage to Joni Mitchell’s classic, adding a fresh twist for modern audiences.

21. “Shotgun (The Wild Remix)” by George Ezra & The Wild

A favorite on Spotify and among our readers, “Shotgun” guarantees a feel-good ride.

22. “Layla” by Eric Clapton

This iconic classic rock ballad shines on this playlist, appealing to a wide audience for its timeless appeal.

23. “Higher Love” by Kygo & Whitney Houston

This energetic remix ignites a celebratory feel, perfect for any road trip playlist.

24. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty

This timeless track encapsulates the spirit of exploration and freedom, resonating with every road tripper.

25. “More Than a Feeling” by Boston

This classic hit evokes memories and emotions that many travelers can relate to.

26. “Hello Darlin'” by Conway Twitty

Classic country tunes set the perfect backdrop for journeys into the unknown.

27. “Fast Car” by Jonas Blue & Dakota

The remix of this beloved classic keeps things fresh and impressive throughout your drive.

28. “Sun Models” by ODESZA featuring Madelyn Grant

This song elevates the joy of the open road, making every moment feel epic.

29. “Jack & Diane” by John Mellencamp

We conclude with this classic rock ballad, a longtime favorite for road trippers, enhancing the adventure with nostalgia.