Best Audiobooks for Family Road Trips

Best Audiobooks for Family Road Trips

Long family road trips can be a wonderful way to spend quality time together, but they can also become tedious, especially if everyone’s looking for something to stay engaged and entertained. Audiobooks can be a fantastic solution, captivating everyone from kids to adults and turning long stretches of driving into opportunities for shared enjoyment and even learning. A great family audiobook weaves storytelling magic that draws everyone in, whether it’s an imaginative fantasy adventure, a mystery that keeps everyone guessing, or a beloved classic told with fresh flair. With the right story, you’ll find that hours on the road seem to fly by.

Choosing the right audiobook for a family trip isn’t always easy, especially when ages and tastes vary. Some families may lean toward light-hearted humor, while others might appreciate a story with emotional depth or engaging history. To make it easier, we’ve put together a list of audiobooks that offer something for everyone, featuring captivating narrators, memorable characters, and stories with universal appeal. Whether you’re looking to laugh, learn, or experience a little nostalgia, these selections are perfect for filling the car with excitement and laughter.

So, load up your playlists, settle in, and get ready for a journey that’s just as thrilling as the destination! Here are some of the best audiobooks to enjoy together on your next family summer road trip and beyond.

Benefits of Family Audiobooks During Road Trips:

Here are some great benefits of using audiobooks to enhance the long road trip experience:

Audiobooks provide a shared activity that everyone in the car can enjoy together, no matter their age. With genres that range from fantasy and mystery to comedy and classic literature, audiobooks offer options that cater to all interests, keeping everyone engaged and entertained.

A captivating audiobook can make hours on the road feel much shorter. When everyone is immersed in a good book, even long stretches of driving seem to pass more quickly, making the long drive as enjoyable as the destination.

Audiobooks offer an alternative to screens, which can help avoid the negative effects of excessive screen time, like eye strain and car sickness. Instead of zoning out on a device, listeners can experience the road trip scenery while still being entertained.

Listening to a story together creates shared experiences and talking points, sparking family discussions about favorite characters, plot twists, and lessons learned. This shared activity can create memories and deepen family bonds along the way.

Audiobooks require active listening and imagination, as listeners must picture scenes and characters in their minds. This can be a refreshing change from watching movies or shows and can help develop focus and creativity in young listeners.  Close your eyes and take in the sound effects of a perfect listen to these favorite audiobooks below.  

For young children, hearing stories read aloud by professional narrators helps build vocabulary, comprehension, and listening skills. Narrators often use a range of voices and expressive storytelling techniques, making language and storytelling exciting.

Audiobooks can create a calm and relaxed atmosphere in the car, which can be helpful on long drives. The soothing nature of a well-narrated story can ease travel tension and help keep everyone’s mood light, especially if the road gets challenging.

Unlike watching movies or playing games, listening to an audiobook allows the driver to stay focused on the road while still enjoying the story. This adds an extra layer of entertainment for the driver, making the trip enjoyable for everyone in the vehicle.  I love using audiobooks especially when I am on a long trip alone with the kids because they get so submersed in the audio format it makes the drive more enjoyable for me.

Many audiobooks contain valuable information and life lessons, whether it’s historical context in a time-travel adventure or lessons about friendship and resilience. Road trips become an opportunity for the family to learn together and broaden their horizons.

Loading up on audiobooks before a trip requires minimal preparation, especially compared to organizing games or other forms of in-car entertainment. With apps and digital libraries, it's easy to download a few stories before you hit the road, so you're ready to go.

With all these benefits, audiobooks add real value to road trips, making each mile feel like part of the adventure.

List of the Best Audiobooks for Family Listening

If you are feeling overwhelmed by where to start with your first book, let your family vote and choose based on a genre.  You really cannot go wrong with any of these great audiobooks as you hit the open road.

Best Audiobooks for Fantasy and Adventure

1. "Harry Potter" Series by J.K. Rowling – Narrated by Jim Dale
   Follow the young wizard Harry Potter as he attends Hogwarts, makes friends, and faces magical challenges. Jim Dale’s narration brings distinct voices to each character, enhancing the magical feel of Rowling's world. Each book in the series dives deeper into themes of friendship, courage, and the battle between good and evil, making it an immersive listen for the entire family.

2. "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" Series by Rick Riordan – Narrated by Jesse Bernstein
   This series combines Greek mythology with modern-day adventure as Percy Jackson discovers he’s the son of Poseidon and goes on epic quests. Bernstein’s narration captures Percy’s humor and the excitement of facing mythical creatures. With action-packed storylines and relatable characters, it’s perfect for tweens, teens, and adults alike.

3. "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien – Narrated by Rob Inglis
   This prequel to The Lord of the Rings takes listeners on an adventure with Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who finds himself swept into a quest for treasure. Rob Inglis's engaging narration brings Tolkien's vivid world of dwarves, dragons, and magic to life. The Hobbit is a perfect mix of bravery, friendship, and fantasy that appeals to both young listeners and parents.

4. "How to Train Your Dragon" by Cressida Cowell – Narrated by David Tennant
   Young Viking Hiccup tries to prove himself by training a dragon, leading to a series of comedic and adventurous events. David Tennant’s lively narration adds humor and energy, making the story even more entertaining. Full of fun and fantasy, this great story turned audiobook is great for kids and adults who love lighthearted adventures.

5. "The Chronicles of Narnia" Series by C.S. Lewis – Narrated by Various Narrators
   Step into Narnia, a land of mythical creatures and epic battles between good and evil. Each story features different children who face unique challenges and life lessons. The audio version narrations enhance Lewis’s enchanting storytelling, making it ideal for families looking to share timeless tales together.

6. "Peter and the Starcatchers" by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson – Narrated by Jim Dale
   Discover the origins of Peter Pan in this adventurous prequel that mixes magic, pirates, and mystery. Jim Dale’s narration brings each character vividly to life, adding an extra layer of excitement. This captivating series offers a fun backstory to the classic Peter Pan tale.

7. "The Wild Robot" by Peter Brown – Narrated by Kate Atwater
   Roz, a robot, finds herself stranded on an island and learns to survive and connect with the natural world. Atwater’s narration beautifully captures Roz’s journey from machine to friend, making it a touching story about kindness, growth, and survival. It’s a lovely tale for families who enjoy stories with heart. If you havent read the second book or third yet, highly recommend adding to your list after finishing this one!

8. "Inkheart" by Cornelia Funke – Narrated by Lynn Redgrave
   When a young girl’s father accidentally brings book characters to life, they’re pulled into a world of adventure and danger. Lynn Redgrave’s narration brings tension and magic to this imaginative story, perfect for families who love getting lost in books.

Mystery and Suspense Road Trip Audiobook Options

1. "The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart – Narrated by Del Roy
   Four gifted children are recruited to save the world from a powerful villain in this clever, puzzle-filled adventure. Del Roy’s narration builds suspense and captures each character’s unique traits. This story is ideal for families who enjoy a mix of mystery, strategy, and teamwork.

2. "Nancy Drew" Series by Carolyn Keene – Narrated by Laura Linney (various books)
   Teenage sleuth and main character Nancy Drew tackles mysteries with intelligence and courage. Laura Linney’s narration brings this classic series to life with a modern touch, making it accessible and enjoyable for a new generation. With stories that focus on problem-solving, it’s great for budding detectives.

3. "The Hardy Boys" Series by Franklin W. Dixon – Narrated by Bill Irwin (various books)
   Sibling detectives Frank and Joe Hardy solve mysteries that are both thrilling and fun. Bill Irwin’s narration captures the suspense and action, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats. Perfect for kids who enjoy adventure and solving mysteries along with their favorite characters.

4. "A Series of Unfortunate Events" by Lemony Snicket – Narrated by Tim Curry
   The Baudelaire orphans face a series of darkly humorous misadventures in their quest to escape the sinister Count Olaf. Tim Curry’s narration enhances the gothic and quirky atmosphere, making this a fun, albeit slightly eerie, listen for older kids and teens.

5. "Mr. Lemoncello’s Library" by Chris Grabenstein – Narrated by Jesse Bernstein
   In this puzzle-filled mystery, kids are locked in a fantastical library and must solve riddles to escape. Jesse Bernstein’s narration adds excitement to the fast-paced story, perfect for families who enjoy games and challenges.

6. "Greenglass House" by Kate Milford – Narrated by Chris Henry Coffey
   During a snowy winter, a boy uncovers secrets in a mysterious inn full of intriguing guests. Coffey’s narration brings a cozy, mysterious feel to the story, making it a great choice for families who love intrigue and surprises.

7. "Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library" by Chris Grabenstein – Narrated by Jesse Bernstein
   A group of kids in a high-tech library must use their wits to navigate an escape filled with riddles. Bernstein’s narration adds an engaging twist to this puzzle-filled adventure, making it ideal for families who enjoy cooperative problem-solving.

Classics and Timeless Tales

The audiobook options are just as amazing as these coming-of-age favorite books.

1. "Anne of Green Gables" by L.M. Montgomery – Narrated by Rachel McAdams
   Anne Shirley, an imaginative and outspoken orphan, finds a home with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert in the charming town of Avonlea. Rachel McAdams’s warm narration brings Anne’s delightful personality to life, making it a lovely story of friendship, family, and finding one’s place in the world.

2. "Charlotte’s Web" by E.B. White – Narrated by E.B. White
   The story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with Charlotte, a clever spider, is both heartwarming and unforgettable. Narrated by the author himself, E.B. White adds authenticity and tenderness to this classic tale about friendship, sacrifice, and kindness.  

3. "The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett – Narrated by Josephine Bailey
   Orphaned Mary Lennox discovers a hidden garden that transforms her life and those around her. Josephine Bailey’s narration beautifully captures the magic and growth in this classic story of healing, friendship, and the beauty of nature.

4. "The Wind in the Willows" by Kenneth Grahame – Narrated by Shelly Frasier
   Follow the charming adventures of Mole, Rat, Badger, and Toad in the English countryside. Shelly Frasier’s narration brings humor and warmth to this timeless tale of friendship, fun, and occasional mischief.

5. "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott – Narrated by Kate Reading
   This beloved novel follows the lives of the four March sisters as they grow up during the Civil War. Kate Reading’s narration captures each sister’s unique personality, making this story of family, love, and resilience a rich and emotional experience.

6. "Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson – Narrated by Alfred Molina
   This high-seas adventure with pirates, treasure maps, and thrilling battles is perfect for families craving excitement. Alfred Molina’s narration brings the suspense and adventure of Stevenson’s classic tale to life, keeping listeners riveted.

7. "The Jungle Book" by Rudyard Kipling – Narrated by Tony Robinson
   Mowgli, a boy raised by wolves, learns the ways of the jungle in this classic filled with memorable animal characters. Tony Robinson’s engaging narration makes this a great family listen, full of adventure and lessons about courage and belonging.

8. "Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll – Narrated by Scarlett Johansson
   In this whimsical story, young Alice falls down a rabbit hole into a fantastical world. Scarlett Johansson’s playful narration captures the surreal charm and quirkiness of Carroll’s beloved characters, making it an enchanting listen for all ages.

Humor and Lighthearted Fun with these Funny Audiobooks

1. "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" Series by Jeff Kinney – Narrated by Ramon De Ocampo
   Follow Greg Heffley’s humorous take on middle school as he navigates friendship, family, and growing up. Ramon De Ocampo’s narration brings Greg’s witty commentary to life, making it a hilarious choice for younger listeners.

2. "Ramona Quimby" Series by Beverly Cleary – Narrated by Stockard Channing
   Ramona’s daily adventures capture the humor and charm of childhood, from school mishaps to sibling rivalries. Stockard Channing’s narration brings Ramona’s spunk and curiosity to life, perfect for families who enjoy lighthearted stories with relatable moments.

3. "Fantastic Mr. Fox" by Roald Dahl – Narrated by Chris O’Dowd
   Mr. Fox outsmarts three mean farmers in this clever and comedic tale of survival. Chris O’Dowd’s lively narration adds extra charm to Dahl’s witty story, making it a quick, fun listen for everyone in the car.

4. "The Penderwicks" by Jeanne Birdsall – Narrated by Susan Denaker
   The Penderwick sisters’ summer vacation is full of delightful adventures,  best friend, and family bonding. Susan Denaker’s narration captures each sister’s personality, making this series a heartwarming and humorous choice for family listening.

5. "Sideways Stories from Wayside School" by Louis Sachar – Narrated by various narrators
   This collection of quirky, hilarious tales from a school with strange rules and even stranger characters is perfect for laughs. Each story is short and funny, making it a great option for families who want a mix of humor and lighthearted fun.

6. "Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle" by Betty MacDonald – Narrated by Karen White
   Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, with her magical cures for kids’ mischievous behavior, helps parents in hilarious ways. Karen White’s narration captures the whimsical charm of this beloved character, making it a fun listen for younger children.

Animal Stories and Nature Adventures

1. "Charlotte’s Web" by E.B. White – Narrated by Meryl Streep and Full Cast
   This tale of friendship and kindness follows Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider, who weaves a plan to save him. Meryl Streep and a full cast bring this touching story to life, ideal for families who love animal tales.

2. "Black Beauty" by Anna Sewell – Narrated by Simon Vance
   Told from the perspective of a horse, this classic story shares the life and adventures of Black Beauty. Simon Vance’s narration makes this touching tale about empathy, kindness, and animal welfare both engaging and timeless.

3. "Stuart Little" by E.B. White – Narrated by Julie Harris
   Stuart, a small mouse with a big heart, embarks on adventures in a world much larger than he is. Julie Harris’s narration brings Stuart’s character to life, making this a charming story for families who enjoy animal escapades.

4. "Watership Down" by Richard Adams – Narrated by Ralph Cosham
   This epic journey follows a group of rabbits seeking a new home, encountering challenges along the way. Ralph Cosham’s narration enhances the bravery and resilience of these characters, creating a powerful story for animal lovers.

Science Fiction and Futuristic Fun

1. "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle – Narrated by Hope Davis
   Join Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin as they travel through space and time to rescue Meg’s father. Hope Davis’s narration brings depth and emotion to this story of courage and adventure, perfect for families who love sci-fi with heart.

2. "The City of Ember" by Jeanne DuPrau – Narrated by Wendy Dillon
   In a city running out of power, two children discover clues that may lead them to the light. Wendy Dillon’s narration captures the suspense and mystery, making it an exciting pick for young sci-fi fans.

3. "Ender’s Game" by Orson Scott Card – Narrated by Stefan Rudnicki
   Young Ender Wiggin is recruited to a battle school in space, where he faces high-stakes challenges. Stefan Rudnicki’s narration adds intensity to this gripping story, appealing to teens and adults alike who enjoy futuristic adventures.

Non-Fiction and Educational

1. "Who Was Leonardo da Vinci?" by Roberta Edwards – Narrated by Various Narrators
   This audiobook explores the life and work of the Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci. Perfect for kids interested in history and art, this series provides easy-to-understand information on fascinating figures.

2. "The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind" by William Kamkwamba – Narrated by Korey Jackson
   This true story follows a young boy from Malawi who builds a windmill to help his village. Korey Jackson’s narration inspires listeners of all ages, showing the power of perseverance and innovation.

3. "Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls" by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo – Narrated by a Full Cast
   This collection of stories highlights remarkable women throughout history, inspiring young listeners. The diverse narrators bring each story to life, making it a powerful choice for families.

4. "Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry" by Neil deGrasse Tyson – Narrated by LeVar Burton
   Tyson breaks down complex science concepts for young audiences in a fun, easy-to-understand way. LeVar Burton’s narration makes this educational book both entertaining and enlightening.

Best Places to Listen to Audiobooks on Road Trips

Listening to audiobooks during family road trips or personal time has never been easier, thanks to a variety of platforms offering a wide range of options. Many of these options will provide a free trial for first time listeners.  Here’s an overview of the best ways to listen to audiobooks, including information about some popular audiobook platforms and their features:

1. Audible

• Overview: Audible is one of the largest and most popular audiobook platforms, with a vast library that includes everything from bestselling novels to educational content and original productions.

• Subscription Options: Audible has several subscription models, including Audible Plus, which offers access to a selection of books, and Audible Premium Plus, which includes one credit per month for any book.

• Features: Offline listening, high-quality audio, user-friendly app interface, and options for adjusting playback speed. It also syncs across devices, so you can pick up where you left off on any device.

• Device Compatibility: Compatible with smartphones, tablets, Amazon Echo, and Kindle devices.

2. Libby (by OverDrive)

• Overview: Libby is a free app for accessing audiobooks through your local library, making it an economical choice.

• Subscription Options: Free, but requires a library card from a participating library.

• Features: Download audiobooks for offline listening, set playback speed, create bookmarks, and place holds on popular titles. It also syncs your progress across devices.

• Device Compatibility: Available on smartphones and tablets, and compatible with Kindle for eBooks (though not for audiobooks).

3. Scribd

• Overview: Scribd offers a broad library that includes audiobooks, eBooks, magazines, and documents in one subscription.

• Subscription Options: Scribd offers a single monthly subscription that provides access to the entire library, with no additional credits required.

• Features: Adjustable playback speed, offline access, and recommendations based on your reading habits. Scribd also provides options to explore various genres, ideal for families with varied interests.

• Device Compatibility: Compatible with smartphones, tablets, and computers, and allows for offline listening.

4. Chirp

• Overview: Chirp offers audiobooks at discounted prices, allowing users to purchase individual audiobooks without a subscription.

• Subscription Options: No subscription is required. Users can buy audiobooks at low prices, with frequent sales and limited-time offers.

• Features: Once purchased, audiobooks are available for offline listening through the Chirp app, which also allows users to adjust playback speed.

• Device Compatibility: Available on iOS and Android devices.

5. Apple Carplay Books (Audiobooks)

• Overview: Apple Books has a curated selection of audiobooks, which can be purchased individually, making it convenient for users of Apple devices.

• Subscription Options: No subscription is required; users buy audiobooks individually.

• Features: Users can listen offline, adjust playback speed, and set sleep timers. Apple Books syncs across Apple devices.

• Device Compatibility: Best suited for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and other Apple devices.

6. Google Play Books

• Overview: Google Play Books provides a selection of audiobooks available for individual purchase, with no subscription necessary.

• Subscription Options: No subscription; audiobooks are purchased individually.

• Features: Offline listening, speed control, and progress sync across devices. Google Play Books integrates well with Google Assistant, allowing for hands-free control.

• Device Compatibility: Compatible with Android, iOS, and the web, making it versatile for various devices.

7. Spotify

• Overview: Known primarily as a music streaming service, Spotify has recently expanded its library to include a selection of audiobooks.

• Subscription Options: Spotify Premium subscribers have access to a growing collection of audiobooks.

• Features: Limited audiobook selection but offers some exclusive content and syncs across devices. Spotify is adding more audiobooks to its platform, so the selection is gradually growing.

• Device Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart speakers, and in-car systems.

8. Amazon Echo (Alexa)

• Overview: If you have an Amazon Echo device, Alexa can play audiobooks from Audible and Kindle, making it easy to enjoy stories at home or on the go.

• Features: Voice-controlled playback, making it simple to start, pause, and resume audiobooks. Alexa can also remember where you left off, even if you switch to another device.

• Device Compatibility: Works with Echo devices and integrates with other Alexa-enabled devices.

Each platform has unique benefits, whether you're looking for a vast library, subscription flexibility, or affordable options. Audible and Libby are great for consistent listeners, while Chirp and Apple Books allow for individual purchases without commitment. When choosing a platform, consider features like offline access, playback controls, and compatibility with your devices for the best listening experience. Whether for road trips or everyday listening, these platforms make it easy to find and enjoy audiobooks for the entire family.

Audiobooks are a delightful way to enhance the road trip experience, giving everyone in the car a shared story to talk about, laugh over, and bond with along the way. From magical worlds and mythical creatures to heartfelt tales and classic adventures, there’s a story for every kind of family. These audiobooks are just the beginning of what could become a new family tradition, transforming each road trip into a shared journey through words and imagination. With a great audiobook, the miles will fly by, and you’ll arrive at your destination with new memories, fresh perspectives, and maybe even a few inside jokes. So, sit back, press play, and enjoy the ride!