The 14 Best Road Trip Songs to Fuel Your Adventure

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If you’re planning a road trip and your playlist still needs some serious sprucing up, fear not! I’ve got you covered. Let’s be real; a road trip without some epic tunes is like pizza without toppings – just plain wrong! And lucky for you, the internet has recently been buzzing with some excellent song recommendations that are sure to kick your journey up a notch. So turn up the volume, and let’s hit the road.

1. Jackson Browne – “Running on Empty”

San Francisco, CA/USA - 10/1/16: Jackson Browne performs at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass in Golden Gate Park. In 2004 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Photo credit: Sterling Munksgard / Shutterstock.com

A great addition to any playlist, “Running on Empty” by Jackson Browne captures the essence of the road trip experience. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody that is easy to sing along to. Plus, it conveys a sense of freedom, adventure, and the exhilaration of being on the open road. 

2. The Killers – “Mr. Brightside”

BENICASSIM, SPAIN - JUL 20: The Killers (famous indie rock band) perform in concert at FIB Festival on July 20, 2018 in Benicassim, Spain.
Photo credit: Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

This song has achieved significant popularity and has become an enduring hit since its release in 2003. Its widespread recognition and status as a classic rock song make it a popular choice for road trip playlists, as it appeals to a wide range of listeners.

3. The Proclaimers – “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)”

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This song has become essential for any road trip playlist. The fast-paced rhythm and catchy lyrics make it impossible not to join in and sing along. The iconic line “I would walk 500 miles, and I would walk 500 more” is instantly recognizable and perfect for a long car ride with friends or family. This song is perfect for those moments when you need a burst of energy to keep the journey going.

4. Toto – “Africa”

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The opening piano chords of “Africa” are enough to transport you to a different place. It’s a classic road trip song you can’t leave out. Toto’s smooth and mellow sound is perfect for laid-back drives through scenic routes or a late-night drive under the stars. Even if you’ve never set foot in Africa, the lyrics “I bless the rains down in Africa” can evoke a sense of nostalgia within you.

5. Kenny Loggins – “Danger Zone”

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This song is a true classic and a must-have on any road trip playlist. The intense guitar riffs and upbeat tempo make it perfect for a high-speed drive or a long stretch of the open road. The lyrics of “Revvin’ up your engine, listen to her howlin’ roar” can make anyone feel like a rebel on the road. This song is perfect for those moments when you need a burst of adrenaline to keep you going.

6. Queen – “Don’t Stop Me Now”

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This song is a classic feel-good tune that has become essential on any road trip playlist. The fast-paced piano chords and Freddie Mercury’s energetic vocals can make anyone feel alive and free. It’s a perfect song for cruising down the highway with friends or family and belting out the lyrics. Whenever you hear the words “Don’t stop me now, I’m having such a good time, I’m having a ball” in a song, it’s bound to make you grin and forget about all your worries.

7. Lindsey Buckingham – “Holiday Road”

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This classic tune from the movie “National Lampoon’s Vacation” is the perfect addition to any road trip playlist. With its upbeat melody and catchy chorus, “Holiday Road” will have everyone in the car singing along and tapping their toes. It’s the perfect song for setting the tone of your adventure and getting everyone in a fun and playful mood.

8. Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Road Trippin’ “

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Editorial credit: Sterling Munksgard / Shutterstock.com

This song is a must-have for any road trip playlist. The laid-back vibe and mellow instrumentation make it the perfect soundtrack for cruising down the highway. The lyrics are all about the joys of hitting the open road and exploring the world, making it an ideal choice for anyone with a serious case of wanderlust.

9. Tom Petty – “Runnin’ Down a Dream”

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This classic rock anthem is all about chasing your dreams and never giving up. This song is ideal for a road trip, where the excursion holds as much significance as the final destination. The driving beat, and catchy guitar riffs will energize everyone in the car for whatever adventures lie ahead.

10. Queen – “Bohemian Rhapsody”

Queen - "Bohemian Rhapsody"
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This iconic song is a must-have for any road trip playlist. With its soaring vocals, epic guitar solos, and intricate harmonies, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is the ultimate sing-along anthem. It’s the perfect song for belting out at the top of your lungs with your friends as you cruise the highway, living your best life.

11. Tom Cochrane – “Life is a Highway”

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Editorial credit: Paul McKinnon / Shutterstock.com

Tom Cochrane’s “Life is a Highway” is a timeless tune that’s a must-have on any road trip playlist, having been featured on countless ones over the years. The upbeat and catchy tune is perfect for cruising down the open road and singing along at the top of your lungs. It’s a song that has stood the test of time and is loved by people of all ages.

12. Iron Maiden – “Number of the Beast”

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Number of the Beast by Iron Maiden is a surprising addition to a road trip playlist, but it will get your heart racing and your adrenaline pumping. The heavy metal masterpiece is a classic and is perfect for a long drive on the highway with the windows down, and the volume turned up.

13. AC/DC – “Shoot to Thrill”

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Editorial credit: Ralf Liebhold / Shutterstock.com

Shoot to Thrill by AC/DC is another great song for a road trip playlist. The iconic opening riff is instantly recognizable, and the high-energy vocals and driving beat make it perfect for a long drive. It’s a song that will have you singing along and tapping your foot to the beat.

14. Golden Earring – “Radar Love”

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Editorial credit: Ralf Liebhold / Shutterstock.com

Radar Love by Golden Earring is a classic rock song that’s perfect for a road trip. The driving rhythm and catchy chorus make it a favorite for many, and it’s a great song to listen to while cruising down the highway. Even though many artists have covered the song over the years, the original version is still a favorite among fans.

Source: Reddit 

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Travel blooper photo by Have Clothes, Will Travel
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The famous giraffe manor breakfast where the giraffes stick their heads through the windows
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The Sandals Curacao infinity pool and swim up bar
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