Road trips can only be complete with some good music blasting in your ears. And if you’re planning a family trip, you must tend to everybody’s tastes. We can’t have the kids in an uproar if we only play 80s music, right? This calls for a song playlist with the entire family singing along.

1. Life Is A Highway – Rascal Flatts

Who doesn’t love a Disney song? Life Is A Highway by Rascal Flatts is the ultimate addition to any road trip playlist. Also, this Cars movie musical is every kid’s favorite to sing along to. So, if you want to cheer up the mood, remember to add this one.

2. Happy – Pharrell Williams

We have another kid’s movie song, but contrary to the one above, this one is for both parents and children to enjoy. Featured in the first Despicable Me film, this song by Pharrell Williams is wholesome and about feeling your best throughout the day. We bet it will put everyone in the road trip spirit.

3. I Want It That Way – Backstreet Boys

Now, everybody loves old-school beats, and when it comes to Backstreet Boys, even those who are not big fans bop their heads along this tune. This song is a pop genre hit that doesn’t discourage a few replays. Not including this melody in a car playlist would be a crime.

4. Party In The USA – Miley Cyrus

This twentieth-century pop song is a superb addition to any travel playlist. Bright, cheery, and suitable for singing aloud, this American musical number by Miley Cyrus is a go-to for any interstate family trip. It is quite the upbeat jam for teens, so we highly recommend listening to it.

5. Girls Just Want To Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper 

Some types of songs make you thrive in the current moment. It could be a great hair day or sunny weather that brings joy. This magical song by Cyndi Lauper makes you feel precisely the same. All you have to do is play this track on repeat on the family car ride and feel the good vibes all over.

6. Can’t Stop The Feeling – Justin Timberlake

This pop gem might be their next favorite if your family enjoys dancing or even busting a move when music plays. Road trips can often be long and exhausting. So when you start feeling stiff in your seat, Can’t Stop The Feeling will bring that energy back and make you feel fresh again.

7. Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen

Apart from a little movement, entertainment in family road trips calls for activities. That being said, clap your hands together and say ‘Ay–Oh’ to Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen. This incredible piece is made for the entire family to participate together. By the end, you’ll have some adorable acapella memories to remember.

8. Fast Car – Tracy Chapman

Fast Car is an addictive track you listen to on high volume as you speed through an open road. So, you must add it to your playlist. The entire family will surely enjoy the freedom and wanderlust that this cherishable song brings. Turn up this sweet tune by Tracy Chapman and prepare to hum it all along the journey.

9. Call Me Maybe – Carly Rae Jepsen

Road Trips often call for those cheesy and catchy songs that feel right. They may not be part of your usual collection, but you cannot help singing along. Call Me Maybe is that pop jingle your family needs to put on and start the party. It’s a perfect ‘first song’ to play when beginning the road adventure.

10. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd

You can’t create a meaningful road trip playlist without adding Sweet Home Alabama. This timeless Southern rock number is about loving one’s homeland. Besides, a playlist without country songs is just dull. This song is the essence of all road music and brings a positive element to the drive.

11. Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond

“Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond, released in 1969 on the album “Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show,” is a feel-good song that has become famous for its sing-along “ba ba ba” chorus. It’s a favorite at sports events and gatherings, bringing people together with its infectious melody.

12. Shake It Off – Taylor Swift

“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift, released in 2014 on her album “1989,” marked her successful transition from country to pop. The song’s upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics made it one of her biggest hits, encouraging listeners to let go of negativity and dance along.

13. Don’t Stop Believin- Journey

“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey, released in 1981 on their album “Escape,” is a rock anthem that has stood the test of time. Known for its iconic piano intro and powerful vocals, it has become one of the best-selling digital tracks of the 20th century and a staple at karaoke nights and sporting events.

14. Walking on Sunshine- Katrina and the Waves

“Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves, released in 1985 on their self-titled album, is an upbeat, sunny song that lifts spirits and makes listeners want to dance. Its infectious energy and joyful lyrics have made it a timeless feel-good anthem.

15. Here Comes The Sun – The Beatles

Released in 1969 on their album “Abbey Road,” “Here Comes the Sun” is a timeless classic written by George Harrison. Its gentle melody and uplifting lyrics make it perfect for a sunny drive, bringing a sense of peace and optimism to the journey.

16. Roar – Katy Perry

Released in 2013 on her album “Prism,” “Roar” is an empowering pop anthem that encourages listeners to find their inner strength. Its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo make it a great sing-along song for the whole family.

17. On the Road Again – Willie Nelson

Released in 1980 on the album “Honeysuckle Rose,” “On the Road Again” is a country classic that captures the spirit of travel and adventure. Willie Nelson’s distinctive voice and the song’s simple yet memorable melody make it a road trip essential.

18. Let It Go – Idina Menzel (from Frozen)

Released in 2013 as part of the “Frozen” soundtrack, “Let It Go” became an instant hit with both kids and adults. Idina Menzel’s powerful vocals and the song’s inspiring message make it a favorite for family sing-alongs.

19. Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison

Released in 1967 on the album “Blowin’ Your Mind!,” “Brown Eyed Girl” is a feel-good rock song that has remained popular for decades. Its catchy tune and nostalgic lyrics make it a perfect addition to any road trip playlist.

20. Surfin’ U.S.A. –  The Beach Boys

Released in 1963 on the album “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” this song captures the carefree, fun-loving spirit of the 1960s. With its upbeat tempo and harmonizing vocals, it’s an ideal track for a drive along the coast or any road trip.

21. Firework – Katy Perry

Released in 2010 on her album “Teenage Dream,” “Firework” is an inspirational pop song that encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness. Its powerful message and energetic beat make it a great song to boost everyone’s spirits during the drive.

 

I have created Spotify Playlists for each place we visit. My husband and I love them, the kids sometimes like them.

If you are interested in our Los Angeles Playlist or one of our newer lists, check below to find it in our Content Library.