10 Best Audiobooks for Road Trips (Perfect for Long Drives)
Long road trips can be exciting, but sometimes the endless highway can start to feel a little monotonous. Whether you're driving cross-country, on a weekend getaway, or even just commuting, audiobooks are the perfect way to pass the time and make your journey more enjoyable. With a good story, you’ll hardly notice the miles ticking by. So, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best audiobooks that are perfect for long drives—guaranteed to keep you entertained and engaged from start to finish.
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1. "Where the Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens
Narrated by Cassandra Campbell
A modern classic, Where the Crawdads Sing is a deeply atmospheric novel set in the North Carolina marshes. The story of Kya Clark, the mysterious "Marsh Girl," is beautifully brought to life through Campbell's expressive narration. This emotional, slow-burn mystery will keep you hooked through every twist and turn as you drive.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: The vivid descriptions and captivating plot create an immersive experience that makes the miles fly by.
2. "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig
Narrated by Carey Mulligan
If you're in the mood for a thought-provoking and heartwarming story, The Midnight Library is a great pick. It explores the infinite possibilities of life through the lens of Nora Seed, who finds herself in a magical library that offers her the chance to try out different versions of her life.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: This audiobook will have you contemplating the "what-ifs" of life, sparking deep thoughts while you're cruising down the road.
3. "The Goldfinch" by Donna Tartt
Narrated by David Pittu
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, The Goldfinch is an epic tale of loss, art, and survival. The story follows Theo Decker, a young boy who survives a tragedy and clings to a masterpiece painting that becomes his lifeline. David Pittu’s masterful narration brings this intricate, layered story to life.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: The novel’s rich storytelling and unforgettable characters will keep you entertained and make even the longest stretches of road feel short.
4. "Dune" by Frank Herbert
Narrated by a full cast
Dune is a science fiction masterpiece that transports you to the desert planet of Arrakis. It’s filled with political intrigue, family drama, and ecological themes that have remained relevant since its release. The full-cast narration adds depth to this immersive, complex world.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: The detailed world-building and intense plot twists will make you feel like you're part of the adventure as you race across the landscape.
5. "Big Little Lies" by Liane Moriarty
Narrated by Caroline Lee
If you're looking for a gripping, yet lighthearted listen, Big Little Lies is a great choice. The book revolves around three women whose lives unravel after a school trivia night. The mystery of what happened that night will keep you guessing until the very end.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: The quick pace and sharp wit will keep you engaged, and the relatable characters make it an enjoyable ride.
6. "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern
Narrated by Jim Dale
A magical and enchanting tale, The Night Circus centers on a mysterious circus that only opens at night and the two magicians locked in a fierce competition. Jim Dale's narration brings the fantastical world of the circus to life with his voice acting prowess.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: The dreamy, atmospheric quality of the story pairs beautifully with the open road, making it feel like you're traveling through a fantasy.
7. "The Alice Network" by Kate Quinn
Narrated by Susan Denaker
For fans of historical fiction, The Alice Network is a riveting tale of espionage, courage, and friendship set against the backdrop of World War I and II. The story follows two women, one a spy in World War I and the other searching for answers during World War II.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: The alternating timelines and suspenseful plot will keep you riveted and entertained, making even the longest stretch of highway fly by.
8. "The Woman in the Window" by A.J. Finn
Narrated by Ann Marie Lee
This psychological thriller follows Anna Fox, a woman who spends her days watching her neighbors from her window. But when she witnesses something disturbing, her world starts to unravel. With gripping suspense and twists you won’t see coming, this audiobook will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: The suspenseful nature of this story will keep your mind fully engaged and distracted from the monotony of driving.
9. "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" by Mark Manson
Narrated by Roger Wayne
If you’re looking for something motivational yet irreverent, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* is the perfect choice. Mark Manson’s no-nonsense guide to living a better life challenges conventional wisdom and offers practical advice on embracing life’s struggles.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: Manson’s witty, straightforward approach will give you something to laugh about while also making you reflect on your own life.
10. "Circe" by Madeline Miller
Narrated by Perdita Weeks
For those who enjoy Greek mythology, Circe reimagines the story of the infamous witch from Homer's Odyssey. With beautiful prose and a fresh perspective on the ancient gods, this audiobook breathes new life into the myth of Circe, making it both accessible and thrilling.
Why it's perfect for a road trip: The immersive world of gods and monsters is perfect for getting lost in as you drive, keeping you engaged with its lyrical storytelling and vivid imagery.
Final Thoughts
Audiobooks are the perfect travel companion for your next road trip. Whether you're looking for something lighthearted, thought-provoking, or suspenseful, there’s a title on this list that will make your journey fly by. Plus, with services like Audible, you can easily access these audiobooks and enjoy them wherever the road takes you.
So, before you hit the road, make sure to download one of these great listens to turn your long drive into an unforgettable experience.
Ready to get started? Check out these audiobooks and more on Audible today!
