BEST AUDIOBOOKS FOR ROAD TRIPS IN 2023

Embarking on a road trip is the perfect opportunity to dive into captivating stories and enrich your journey with the power of the best audiobooks for road trips. The best audiobooks for road trips are a mix of fiction and non-fiction genres, suitable for long hours in a car. Below, we provide you with details on the best audiobooks you will find interesting for road trips.

Best Audiobooks For Road Trips

The best audiobooks for road trips are a curated selection of audio content, such as books, novels, or podcasts, that are enjoyable to listen to while traveling on a road trip. These audiobooks are engaging, entertaining, and well-suited for long hours in a car. They often include a mix of genres, from fiction to nonfiction, and cater to a wide range of interests and preferences, ensuring that road trip passengers have an enjoyable and immersive listening experience throughout their journey.

The best audiobooks for road trips to enhance the enjoyment of your journey are:

#1. The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

This novel takes you on a journey to the wilds of Alaska, making it a perfect choice for road trips where you want to feel transported to a different place.

#2. The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown

This inspiring true story follows the University of Washington’s rowing team as they strive for gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. It’s a captivating tale that will keep you engaged throughout your road trip.

#3. The Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee Book by Jerry Seinfeld

This audiobook is a wonderful option if you want to laugh out loud. Based on his wildly successful online series, Jerry Seinfeld’s book, which he also narrates, takes you on a wacky journey with a variety of comedians.

#4. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari

If you’re interested in deepening your understanding of human history, this audiobook is a thought-provoking choice. Harari’s exploration of our species’ development is engaging and informative.

#5. The Girls I’ve Been by Tess Sharpe

This gripping thriller is perfect for those who enjoy suspenseful stories. It follows a teenage girl with a dark past who must use her skills to survive a hostage situation. It’s a fast-paced audiobook that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

#6. The Red Rising series by Pierce Brown

If you’re looking for an epic science fiction series, Red Rising is a great choice. It follows the story of Darrow, a member of the lowest caste in a futuristic society, as he rebels against the oppressive ruling class. The series is action-packed and will keep you entertained for hours on end.

#7. The Martian by Andy Weir

This gripping science fiction novel follows an astronaut stranded on Mars and his quest for survival. R.C. Bray narrates the audiobook, and his performance brings the story to life and keeps you interested from beginning to end.

#8. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

In this memoir, Trevor Noah, the host of The Daily Show, shares his remarkable and often humorous life growing up as a mixed-race child in South Africa during apartheid. Noah’s narration adds an extra layer of authenticity and humor to the already compelling story.

#9. Educated by Tara Westover

This memoir follows Tara Westover’s journey from growing up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho to pursuing education and breaking free from her past. You become fully immersed in Westover’s world and the difficulties she encountered through the audiobook’s narration by Julia Whelan.

#10. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

This gripping thriller follows a group of women in a small coastal town and the secrets that unravel after a murder takes place. The audiobook’s full cast narrates it, adding a layer of suspense and bringing the characters to life.

Best Audiobooks For Road Trips Families

The best audiobooks provide captivating storytelling and performances for a family-friendly road trip, offering a variety of fantasy, adventure, and heartwarming tales to make the journey more enjoyable.

Here are some of the best audiobooks for family road trips.

#1. Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Berry and Ridley Pearson

This prequel to the classic story of Peter Pan offers an exciting adventure that both kids and adults will enjoy. It’s a perfect choice for a family road trip.

#2. The Bad Beginning (A Series of Unfortunate Events) by Lemony Snicket

This series follows the misadventures of the Baudelaire orphans. Tim Curry’s narration of the audiobook version brings the story to life and is sure to enthrall the entire family.

#3. Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

The magical world of Harry Potter is a fantastic choice for a family road trip. Both children and adults will find the Jim Dale-narrated audiobook series to be a delightful experience.

#4. The Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis

This beloved fantasy series takes listeners on a journey to the magical land of Narnia. The audiobooks, narrated by a full cast, bring the enchanting world and characters to life.

#5. Matilda by Roald Dahl

This classic children’s book tells the story of a young girl with extraordinary powers. The Kate Winslet-narrated audiobook is a delightful choice for a family road trip.

#6. The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

This unique book combines a captivating story with beautiful illustrations. The experience gains even more magic thanks to Jeff Woodman’s narration of the audiobook version.

#7. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (The Chronicles of Narnia) by C.S. Lewis

This enchanting tale of adventure and bravery is a perfect choice for a family road trip. The story comes to life in the audiobook, which Michael York narrates and is sure to enthrall listeners of all ages.

#8. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

This heartwarming story follows a young boy with a facial difference as he navigates school and friendship. A compelling option for a family road trip is the audiobook, which features various actors as narrators.

#9. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

This beloved children’s classic takes listeners on a whimsical journey through Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Douglas Hodge’s narration of the audiobook perfectly captures Dahl’s storytelling’s magic and humor.

#10. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

This enchanting tale follows a young girl named Mary as she discovers a hidden garden and brings it back to life. Finola Hughes does a fantastic job of narrating the audiobook, which perfectly captures the essence of the story and its themes of friendship and transformation.

Best Audiobooks For Road Trips Adults

The best audiobooks for road trips adults are tailored to the interests and preferences of grown-up listeners and often encompass a variety of genres, ensuring an engaging and captivating listening experience for adults while on the road.

These are recommendations for the best audiobooks for adults for road trips.

#1. Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This fascinating book, which features a full cast of characters and tells the story of a made-up rock band in the 1970s, is a great choice for a road trip.

#2. Educated by Tara Westover

This memoir follows the author’s journey from growing up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho to earning a PhD from Cambridge University. Julia Whelan narrates the audiobook, which offers a powerful listening experience.

#3. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

This psychological thriller keeps listeners on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the mystery of a woman who refuses to speak after being accused of murdering her husband. A talented cast narrates the audiobook, which heightens the suspenseful atmosphere.

#4. Becoming by Michelle Obama

In this memoir, former First Lady Michelle Obama shares her journey, from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her time in the White House. The author herself narrates the audiobook, giving the story an intimate touch.

#5. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

Set during World War II, this historical fiction novel follows the lives of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France. The characters and their struggles come to life in the audiobook, which Polly Stone narrates.

#6. Where the Crawdads Sing, by Delia Owens

This bestselling novel tells the story of a young woman named Kya who grows up alone in the marshes of North Carolina. The audiobook’s narrator, Cassandra Campbell, does a fantastic job of capturing the setting’s beauty and the story’s emotional depth.

#7. The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

This family saga explores the complex relationship between two siblings and their childhood home, the Dutch House. Tom Hanks narrates the audiobook, adding his distinctive voice to the narrative.

#8. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

This philosophical novel follows a young shepherd named Santiago on his journey to discover his legend. The Jeremy Irons-narrated audiobook gives Coelho’s timeless tale a mesmerizing quality.

#9. The Martian by Andy Weir

This science fiction novel follows an astronaut, Mark Watney, who is stranded alone on Mars and must find a way to survive until rescue is possible. Watney’s humor and resourcefulness come to life in the audiobook, which R.C. Bray narrates.

#10. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

This gripping thriller revolves around Rachel, a woman who becomes entangled in a missing person investigation. Clare Corbett, Louise Brealey, and India Fisher narrate the audiobook, which deepens the suspenseful atmosphere.

Best Audiobooks For Road Trips Couples

The best audiobooks for road trips for couples offer a mix of genres and themes that can appeal to both partners during a road trip. They provide opportunities for shared experiences, discussions, and emotional connections along the journey.

Choosing audiobooks for road trips as a couple requires selecting stories that both partners can enjoy and engage with. Some include:

#1. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This captivating novel follows the life of Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo as she reveals her scandalous past and the seven husbands she had along the way. The audiobook, narrated by Alma Cuervo, Robin Miles, and Julia Whelan, offers a compelling and immersive experience for both partners.

#2. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

This heartwarming and humorous novel tells the story of Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward woman who learns to navigate life and form connections. The audiobook, which Cathleen McCarron narrates, brings Eleanor’s distinctive voice to life and is sure to generate conversation and amusement during the journey.

#3. The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

This romantic science fiction novel follows the complex love story of Henry, a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel, and Clare, his wife. The audiobook’s narration by Fred Berman and Phoebe Strole masterfully conveys the feelings and nuances of their relationship.

#4. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Immerse yourselves in the enchanting world of a mysterious circus that only appears at night. Jim Dale’s evocative narration of this book takes readers on a fantastical journey filled with love, rivalry, and wonder.

#5. Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

This emotional contemporary romance explores the relationship between Louisa Clark, a young woman who becomes a caregiver for a quadriplegic man named Will Traynor. Susan Lyons, Anna Bentinck, and Steven Crossley narrate the audiobook, which explores themes of love, self-discovery, and difficult decisions.

#6. The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

Join Don Tillman, a socially awkward genetics professor, on his quest to find love through a scientific approach. Dan O’Grady’s narration of the audiobook brings Don’s endearing and humorous personality to life, making it a delightful choice for a road trip.

#7. The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion

This sequel to The Rosie Project continues the story of Don Tillman as he navigates the challenges of impending fatherhood. The charm and humor of the first book are still present in the audiobook, which Dan O’Grady narrates.

#8. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

This heartfelt young adult novel tells the story of Hazel and Gus, two teenagers who meet at a support group for cancer patients. Kate Rudd does a wonderful job of narrating the audiobook, which beautifully depicts the characters’ emotional journey.

#9. The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo

This moving novel explores the complicated relationship between Lucy and Gabe, who meet on September 11th, 2001, and are drawn back together over the years. The audiobook’s narration by Jill Santopolo conjures up the emotional rollercoaster of their love story.

#10. The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin

This thought-provoking novel explores the lives of four siblings who visit a fortune teller as children and learn the dates of their respective deaths. The Maggie Hoffman-narrated audiobook offers a fascinating examination of fate and the decisions we make.

Is It OK to Listen To Audiobooks While Driving?

Listening to audiobooks while driving can be a common practice for many people, but it is important to consider the potential impact on driving safety. It can be a distraction and divert attention from the road and other important driving cues. Opinions on the safety of listening to audiobooks while driving vary. Road conditions, traffic, personal factors, and legal considerations should be taken into account.

What Are the Best Audiobooks To Listen To?

There are numerous great audiobooks available, each with its own unique preferences. Some of the top audiobooks include Bill Bryson’s The Body: A Guide for Occupants, Dervla McTiernan’s The Fireground, Erica Schmidt’s Lucy, Denene Millner’s One Blood, Lisa Turner’s The Dead Take the A Train, Cicely Tyson’s Just as I Am, Alex Michaelides’ The Silent Patient, Tara Westover’s Educated, Donna Tartt’s The Goldfinch, James Clear’s Atomic Habits, Laura Hillenbrand’s Unbroken, Isabel Wilkerson’s The Warmth of Other Suns, Rebecca Skloot’s The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, and Ann Patchett’s The Dutch House

What Is The Best Way To Listen To Audiobooks In The Car?

To listen to audiobooks in the car, you can use audiobook apps, transfer files to a USB drive, utilize CarPlay if available, connect via AUX or auxiliary port, and use portable speakers or a portable MP3 player. Prioritize safety and remain focused on the road while listening to audiobooks.

What Is Better Than Audiobooks?

The question of what is better than audiobooks is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Reading physical books allows for better retention of information and the use of spatial cues, which are absent in audiobooks. However, others believe that audiobooks offer a unique experience, with the spoken word conveying depth and resonance that text alone may not capture. Factors such as personal enjoyment, learning style, and convenience also come into play. Ultimately, the choice between audiobooks and other forms of reading depends on individual preferences and circumstances.

What Should I Listen To While Driving?

There are various options available for listening while driving. Some popular choices include podcasts, music, audiobooks, educational content, and comedy. Podcasts cover a wide range of topics and can be entertaining or informative. Music is a classic choice for many drivers, allowing you to create a personalized playlist. Audiobooks provide an immersive storytelling experience, while educational content can help you make your drive productive. Comedy podcasts or stand-up comedy albums can lighten the mood and bring laughter to your drive.

Can You Sleep While Listening to Audiobooks?

Yes, it is possible to sleep while listening to audiobooks, as many find it relaxing. However, it’s important to ensure comfort, adjust the volume, choose calming content, and consider personal preference. Prioritize sleep hygiene and experiment to find what works best for you.

Conclusion

The best audiobooks for couples on road trips should be engaging and enjoyable, focusing on shared experiences, discussions, and emotional connections. Some popular choices include The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, The Time Traveler’s Wife, The Night Circus, Me Before You, The Rosie Project, The Rosie Effect, The Fault in Our Stars, and The Light We Lost. These audiobooks offer a mix of genres and themes that can spark shared experiences and emotional connections.