Graphic by Threadhoney
Are you planning an end-of-summer road trip? I love road trips — partly because I prefer the freedom of the open road to flying. There’s something so satisfying about packing snacks, picking a playlist, and stopping at interesting spots along the way. My partner Jeff and I have driven across the country twice and taken plenty of shorter drives, and we’re headed to Las Vegas later this month. For me, the single most essential element of any memorable road trip is the music.
This playlist is built to please a group: sing-along classics, songs that celebrate hitting the road, and energetic tracks that make long stretches of highway feel effortless. It mixes familiar favorites with feel-good songs you’ll want blasting from the car speakers as the miles roll by. Whether you’re chasing golden-hour views, late-night neon, or just the next roadside diner, the right soundtrack makes the journey part of the adventure.
Click here to listen to our road trip playlist
If you’re looking for trip inspiration beyond the playlist, I previously shared a California road trip guide full of route ideas and stops worth making. Road trips are a chance to slow down, discover new places, and make the kind of memories that stick. Pack a cooler, cue up the songs, and enjoy the ride.