Going somewhere? Roll your windows down and get your Spotify ready...here's the perfect playlist for any road trip.
1. "Send Me On My Way" – Rusted Root
True to its title, this Rusted Root hit is perfect for sending you on your way. The catchy guitar melody, killer background vocals, and cheerful sound of the penny whistle will get you feeling excited and motivated as you begin your journey. Wherever you’re headed, this is the way to start.
2. "The Walker" – Fitz and the Tantrums
“Cause 99 miles per hour, baby, is how fast that I’d like to go…” Though you definitely shouldn’t be driving 99 miles per hour, this song is upbeat and perfect for taking the wheel. You’ll be whistling along in no time…just drive the posted speed limit. Please.
3. "Work This Body" – Walk The Moon
This song is equally (if not more) catchy than Walk the Moon’s current hit single “Shut Up and Dance.” It’s upbeat, energetic, and will be stuck in your head for days (which is a good thing, because it’s a great song). You definitely won’t be falling asleep at the wheel.
4. "Can’t Feel My Face" – The Weeknd
If you haven’t heard this song yet on the radio, I highly recommend you drop what you’re doing and listen to it now. An extremely talented vocalist, The Weeknd shows off everything he’s got. Give this song a listen and I promise you won’t be disappointed.
5. "How To Be A Heartbreaker" – Marina and The Diamonds
Whether or not you’re looking to become an expert in heart-breaking, this high-energy dance beat by Marina and the Diamonds will make you want to get up and rave. If you’re not behind the wheel, by all means, please dance—but if you’re driving I would not recommend this. Maybe you can lightly bob in your seat. We’re not trying to cause any accidents here.
6. "Lifted Up (1985)" – Passion Pit
Any Passion Pit song won’t disappoint you, but "Lifted Up" is one of the best. Passion Pit's indie-electronic sound is notably unique, and will instantly put you in a great mood.
7. "Ants Marching" – Dave Matthews Band
A Dave Matthews classic; we all know and love "Ants Marching." The blending of Dave’s voice, the guitar, the saxophone, and the violin all in harmony are unforgettable—it’s easy to see why this song is so well known.
8. "I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)" – The Proclaimers
An absolute classic, this song is essential to any road trip mix. If you couldn’t already tell simply based off the title, this is the perfect traveling song. Sung by the Scottish folk-rock duo The Proclaimers, you’ll be shouting along and tapping your foot to the song’s driving beat in no time. Not to mention the traveling lyrics will motivate you for any cross-country journey.
9. "Ignition (Remix)" – R. Kelly
You can’t go on a road trip without listening to "Ignition." This throwback jam by R. Kelly has smooth instrumentals, an unforgettable melody, and world-famous lyrics. I’m pretty sure everyone was born knowing the lyrics to this song, so you better sing along.
10. "Love On Top" – Beyonce
What would a road trip be without Queen B? Let Beyonce’s flawless voice fill your speakers as you cruise down the freeway. It’s impossible not to be happy while listening to this song, and pretty soon you’ll be belting it out with the Queen on every key change.
11. "Changing of the Seasons" – Two Door Cinema Club
This upbeat jam, sung by the Irish indie-rock band Two Door Cinema Club, is another perfect song for singing along in the car. Its catchy drumbeat mixed with the electronic feel of the synth gives it all the components of a pop-rock tune, but also gives it a unique sound that you won’t forget.
12. "Hey Ya!" – Outkast
What’s cooler than being cool? ICE COLD. Another throwback, this song defined a generation. Take a trip back to the early 2000s and see if you can remember all the lyrics—bonus points if you get the exact number of “all rights.”
13. "Cough Syrup" – Young The Giant
Young the Giant really nailed it with this song. A masterpiece of soft rock, “Cough Syrup” is the perfect blend of moving lyrics, vocal harmonies, and an upbeat chorus. Set the cruise control, roll down your windows, and turn up the volume for this one.
14. "Miracle Mile" – Cold War Kids
This song will literally make you want to run a mile—it’s that upbeat. The infectious energy of the Cold War Kids won’t let you lose steam on your journey. So keep pushing that gas pedal (but remember—not too fast), and keep putting on those miles!
