A road trip can be a great adventure, but sometimes, the long stretches of highway can feel endless. Music is often the go-to entertainment, but what about when you crave a little more? Great podcasts for road trips can be the perfect travel companion, engaging you with captivating stories, interesting interviews, and thought-provoking discussions. Whether you’re into true crime, comedy, history, or self-improvement, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of great podcasts to keep you entertained on your next road trip.
1. Crime Junkie
If you’re a fan of true crime, Crime Junkie is a must-listen. Hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, each episode dives into chilling real-life cases of crime and mystery. Their well-researched narratives will have you hooked as you travel down those endless roads. The duo’s storytelling style is immersive, perfect for making the miles fly by.
Best for: True crime lovers
Episode length: 30–50 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: Gripping stories that keep you on the edge of your seat.
2. My Favorite Murder
Another popular true crime podcast, My Favorite Murder, adds a humorous twist to the genre. Hosted by comedians Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, they recount fascinating crime stories while injecting humor and banter into the mix. Their chemistry makes for a light-hearted yet engaging listen.
Best for: True crime with a sense of humor
Episode length: 60–120 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: A mix of chilling stories and comedic relief will keep you entertained.
3. Stuff You Should Know
Curious about how things work? Stuff You Should Know is the perfect podcast for the inquisitive mind. Hosts Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant dive into topics ranging from history and science to pop culture and strange phenomena. You’ll learn something new with every episode, making it both entertaining and educational.
Best for: Learning enthusiasts
Episode length: 30–60 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: You can deep dive into fascinating topics and even learn fun facts to share with your travel buddies.
4. How I Built This
For entrepreneurial spirits or anyone interested in the stories behind successful companies, How I Built This is a fantastic podcast. Hosted by Guy Raz, this show tells the inspirational stories of founders and entrepreneurs who built brands like Airbnb, Patagonia, and Spanx. You’ll feel inspired by their journeys and might even come away with new ideas for your own ventures.
Best for: Entrepreneurs and creatives
Episode length: 45–60 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: Inspirational stories that might spark your next big idea while driving.
5. Armchair Expert
If you enjoy in-depth conversations, Armchair Expert is the perfect pick. Hosted by actor Dax Shepard and co-host Monica Padman, the podcast features long, insightful interviews with celebrities, authors, experts, and thought leaders. The discussions are heartfelt, funny, and often surprising, providing you with plenty of food for thought.
Best for: Fans of interviews and long-form discussions
Episode length: 90–120 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: Engaging interviews that feel like conversations you can listen to for hours.
6. Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend
For those who prefer comedy, Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend is a hilarious option. Conan O’Brien brings his trademark wit and humor to conversations with celebrities. If you need a break from serious content and want something lighthearted, this podcast will have you laughing out loud in the car.
Best for: Comedy lovers
Episode length: 30–60 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: Light and funny, perfect for breaking up long stretches of driving with laughter.
7. The Moth
If you enjoy storytelling, The Moth is an incredible podcast featuring real people telling real stories live on stage. From heartwarming to heartbreaking to hilarious, the stories are always genuine and deeply engaging. Listening to these personal experiences can be a powerful way to connect with people while you’re on the road.
Best for: Storytelling fans
Episode length: 10–30 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: Short, compelling stories that keep your mind engaged between stops.
8. Science Vs
Want to debunk myths while traveling? Science Vs tackles popular fads and controversies using scientific facts. Whether it’s diets, climate change, or alternative medicine, this podcast pits science against the noise to give you evidence-based insights. It’s perfect for keeping your brain active during those long stretches of road.
Best for: Science lovers and skeptics
Episode length: 30–45 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: Engaging content that’s fun, educational, and thought-provoking.
9. The Daily
If you want to stay informed while you drive, The Daily from The New York Times is an excellent option. Hosted by Michael Barbaro, this podcast delivers a deep dive into a single news story each day, keeping you up to date with current events in an easily digestible format.
Best for: News and current events enthusiasts
Episode length: 20–30 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: Short episodes that keep you informed without overwhelming you with too much information.
10. TED Talks Daily
If you’re a fan of TED Talks, this podcast is a great way to listen to inspiring, thought-provoking ideas on the go. TED Talks Daily features a variety of experts discussing everything from science and technology to personal growth and creativity. It’s a great way to learn something new while on your road trip.
Best for: Personal growth and education
Episode length: 10–20 minutes
Why it’s great for road trips: Short, impactful talks that inspire and enlighten.
Conclusion
Road trips offer a unique opportunity to break away from the daily grind and explore new horizons—both physically and mentally. Podcasts can enhance that experience by turning the drive into a journey of entertainment, education, and discovery. Whether you’re craving a true crime mystery, a good laugh, or a dose of inspiration, the podcasts on this list will ensure your road trip is memorable from start to finish.