May 13

May 13 25 Best Audiobooks For Family Road Trips

There’s nothing quite like a road trip with the family—snacks packed, playlists queued, bags crammed into every inch of trunk space, and the promise of adventure in the air. For me, it’s one of the best ways to spend quality time with the people who matter most. It’s a chance to hit pause on everyday chaos and make memories, mile by mile. But let’s be honest—spending hours in a car, especially with younger children, can be both delightful and daunting. Planning how to keep everyone entertained during a long car ride is one of the most important parts of preparing for family road trips.

Enter: road trip audiobooks.

They’ve become one of my favorite travel hacks, turning hours of driving into immersive, shared experiences. Whether it's giggles from the backseat, thoughtful conversations between rest stops, or everyone being completely silent because they're captivated by the audio version of a story—listening to audiobooks is a special kind of magic. Today, I’m sharing a curated round-up of 25 audiobooks for family road trips that will keep your crew entertained and connected, from younger children to middle schoolers and even teens and adults.

25 Best Audiobooks For Family Road Trips

Before diving into the full list, let’s talk about why audiobooks are such a powerful addition to your travel plans. Audiobooks can bridge generational gaps, entertain the whole car, and even spark interest in reading. This round-up includes a variety of genres—from laugh-out-loud children’s books to fantasy epics, heartwarming contemporary tales, and even some nostalgic picks for parents. Whether you're driving across New York City or cruising through countryside highways, there’s something here for every road trip.

What Are The Benefits Of Listening To Audiobooks On Family Road Trips

They Encourage Family Bonding

Shared stories can lead to shared memories. When you all listen together, you experience the characters' highs and lows as a unit. You’ll laugh at the same jokes, gasp at plot twists, and pause the book to ask, "Wait, what just happened?!" It creates a unique connection between family members of different ages and interests.

They Make the Trip Go By Faster

There’s a certain magic in losing track of time because you're so invested in a great story. Instead of "Are we there yet?" every 15 minutes, your kids might ask to keep driving so they can hear what happens next.

They Boost Literacy and Comprehension

Especially for younger children and middle schoolers, listening to well-narrated audiobooks supports language development, expands vocabulary, and improves listening skills. Even reluctant readers often find joy in the audio version of books they might never pick up in print.

They Reduce Screen Time

We all want fewer hours of passive screen use. Audiobooks provide a screen-free way to entertain and educate without relying on tablets or phones.

They’re Easier to Share Than Individual Books

Instead of everyone reading their own thing in isolation, audiobooks are a communal activity. That means fewer materials to pack and more reasons to talk.

They Spark Imagination

The best road trip audiobooks aren’t just stories—they’re experiences. With sound effects, engaging narration, and vivid storytelling, they let listeners imagine entire worlds in their minds.

Buy Books on Bookshop.org to Support Local Bookstores

Buy Books on Amazon

What Are The Best Family Road Trip Audiobooks

25 Best Audiobooks For Family Road Trips

Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling, narrated by Jim Dale

An obvious classic, this magical series has something for every age group. Jim Dale's legendary narration makes Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and the world of boarding school magic come alive. These are long car ride gold—each book lasts 8 to 20+ hours.

[The book character I think I’d be best friends with is] Luna Lovegood, a character in The Harry Potter Series by JK Rowling, is the character that comes to mind when I think of who I'd like to be friends with. We have similar personalities, so I think we'd get along smashingly. We're both a little whimsical, a little flighty, kind, considerate, gentle, and yes, odd and eccentric. We'd be the best of friends. Or, considering I'm old enough to be her mom, she could be my daughter and my friend. - Tracy Hewitt Meyer

Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan, narrated by Jesse Bernstein

Perfect for middle schoolers, this fast-paced series is packed with Greek mythology, humor, and heart. Percy Jackson’s adventures are especially fun for families interested in legends and laugh-out-loud action.

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

This timeless children’s book is tender and beautiful. E.B. White narrates it himself, adding a layer of warmth and authenticity. A gentle, emotional pick that’s great for younger children.

[The book character I’d be best friends with is] Wilbur the pig in Charlotte's Web by E.B. White. Because he's a pig! What's not to love? I used to have pet pigs here at our horse sanctuary, Proud Spirit. Sadly, they've all passed of old age, but the are truly fabulous critters. Smart and a lot of fun. - Melanie Sue Bowles

Matilda by Roald Dahl, narrated by Kate Winslet

Yes, that Kate Winslet. Her reading of this Roald Dahl classic is nothing short of enchanting. Perfect for younger children, though adults will enjoy the nostalgia and wit.

[The book character I’d be best friends with is] Matilda in Matilda by Roald Dahl. We have so much in common. I named my dog after her. - Gabrielle St. George

The Penderwicks Series by Jeanne Birdsall, narrated by Susan Denaker

This wholesome, sweet series about four sisters is like a literary warm hug. Excellent for elementary-aged kids, especially those who enjoy realistic fiction.

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown, narrated by Kate Atwater

This unique, modern tale of a robot stranded on an island mixes technology with nature and emotion. It’s gentle, compelling, and perfect for all ages.

[The book character I’d be best friends with is] …Wardrobe from the Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis, because he gets to hang out with the Lion and the Witch . . . I've got a confession to make, I've only read the cover. No idea what it's about. Maybe I don't want to be friends with Mr. Wardrobe. - Michael Stewart

The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis, various narrators

With fantasy, allegory, and adventure, these books have been beloved for generations. They’re especially great for sparking family discussions.

Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo, narrated by Cherry Jones

This emotional and humorous story centers around a girl and her dog in a small town. The narration is lovely and warm—an ideal short listen.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio, full cast

A heart-expanding story about kindness, acceptance, and being different. Great for families with middle schoolers and tweens, especially if you enjoy books with multiple perspectives.

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, narrated by Adam Grupper

Based on a true story, this animal tale is both humorous and moving. It’s wonderful for younger children but deep enough for all ages.

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein, narrated by Jesse Bernstein

Part puzzle, part game-show, part bookish adventure—this one is pure fun. Great for elementary and middle schoolers.

Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi, narrated by Soneela Nankani

Part of the Rick Riordan Presents series, this blends Indian mythology with boarding school adventure and fast-paced action. Soneela Nankani (one of the best audiobook narrators) brings this to life beautifully.

The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, narrated by Del Roy

A brainy adventure for kids who love puzzles and teamwork. This series is long, clever, and ideal for long car rides.

I think Anne in Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery would be a loyal, true friend. She's smart, but she doesn't take herself too seriously. - Mary Dixie Carter

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery, narrated by Rachel McAdams

This beautifully nostalgic story is made even better by Rachel McAdams’ charming narration. Older kids and parents will especially enjoy this.

Holes by Louis Sachar, narrated by Kerry Beyer

With mystery, humor, and heart, this book keeps kids guessing and reflecting. A modern classic with lots to talk about afterward.

Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson, narrated by Jim Dale

Another hit from Jim Dale, this is a prequel to the Peter Pan story. It’s got action, pirates, and plenty of twists.

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, narrated by Graeme Malcolm

A fairy tale filled with charm and bravery. A great pick for a mixed-age group.

[The book character I’d like to be stuck in an elevator with is] Violet Baudelaire from A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket—not least of which because she’d surely come up with a scheme to get us out. - Erin Mayer

A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket, narrated by Tim Curry

Dark, funny, and wildly entertaining. Tim Curry’s narration is a treat for the whole family.

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser, narrated by Robin Miles

Set in New York City, this warmhearted story about siblings trying to save their home has big family energy. Great for city-loving kids.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney, narrated by Ramon de Ocampo

Light, funny, and relatable—especially for middle schoolers. These are shorter listens but guaranteed to get laughs.

The moment I knew I wanted to become an author: Probably when I read ELLA ENCHANTED by Gail Carson Levine for the first time as a kid. I thought, I want to create something like that. - Melissa Croce

Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine, narrated by Eden Riegel

A magical twist on the Cinderella story, full of empowerment and fun.

I’m claustrophobic and hate elevators at the best of times. If stuck, I’d choose a ghost from Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book to ride with me—maybe Bod’s warm-hearted adoptive ghost-mom, Mrs. Owens. As a spirit, she could slip out, float away, and seek help. - Elka Ray

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, narrated by the author

A spooky, thoughtful tale with Gaiman’s signature style. Probably best for older kids and teens.

Pax by Sara Pennypacker, narrated by Michael Curran-Dorsano

This is an emotional, powerful story about the bond between a boy and his fox. Great for middle grade and above.

Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones, narrated by Jenny Sterlin

Fantasy, magic, and humor abound. This one’s ideal for fans of quirky adventure tales.

When I was in the second grade or so, I realized there was a name on the cover of my favorite books—Beverly Cleary, who is this so and so?—who was NOT Ramona Quimby. (I love Ramona fiercely to this day.) This was when I realized there were people who created the stories I loved, that I might be such a person. - Lori Rader-Day

The Ramona Quimby Audio Collection by Beverly Cleary, narrated by Stockard Channing

Younger children will adore Ramona's antics, and Stockard Channing’s narration brings her mischievous spirit to life.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link. Thank you for supporting this blog and the books I recommend! I may have received a book for free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Hi.