Call Us
Best Podcasts, Books, and Music to Bring for Road Trips
How-To’s & Resources, Renter Guest Posts, Women on the Road
By Jasmine Burgan
Sometimes you just need some inspiration. Whether you’re in the planning phases of a trip, packing your bags the day before, or already out on the open road – it can be incredibly motivating to hear tales of others out there kicking goals, traveling, and experiencing new things. It’s especially important to know the best podcasts, books, and music to bring for long road trips.
Part of the beauty of being human is in our diversity. Adventure is subjective and can take many different forms–but emotion and connection are universal, and we’re lucky in this day and age to have so many platforms available to share our stories.
Practical advice, inspiration or just a good laugh–we all get something different out of other peoples stories, and sometimes we’re surprised by what impacts us the most.
Travel can be beautiful, enlightening, romantic, inspiring….all of the above. But not every adventure is all rainbows and unicorns–things can get hairy out there. However, it’s our triumphs in overcoming complications that usually play a huge part in what makes the memories so special.
And when we’re back at “home,” wherever that may be, dreaming of trudging through new landscapes and dappling in new experiences, we can revel in the fact that there are so many mediums in which we can live vicariously through others doing exactly that.
I thought I’d share some of the best podcasts, books, and music I’ve related to or drawn inspiration from recently during road trips in case you can get something out of them too.
Stay safe out there and happy travels!
Podcasts
Women on the Road
Powerful, varied tales from women who are living on the road in many different shapes and forms. Expect to hear everything from practical tips on building your own home on wheels, maintaining relationships on the road, to real life personal accounts of the various issues women have faced in living this lifestyle. I’ve laughed and cried along to this podcast more times than I’m willing to admit!
She Explores
The parent-podcast to Women on the Road, She Explores encompasses a wide variety of topics related to women in the outdoors. Thought-provoking and eloquent, this podcast leaves no stone unturned and can make hours on the road feel like minutes.
Conversations
Spend an hour learning about something or someone – from history to health, politics to crime, these compelling conversations are always interesting.
Learn a language on Spotify
Because who doesn’t need to know the Spanish word for toilet? You’d be surprised at the language resources you can find on Spotify, and even more surprised at the weird times in life when things like this will come in handy.
Books
Walden on Wheels
By: Ken Ilgunas
This book is goof for aspiring vanlifers, and those interested in saving money. Perfect to bring for any road trip with Escape Camper Vans.
If you’re into #vanlife – this book is for you. Author Ken tells the story of how he lived in his van illegally on his university campus to save money and pay his student debts whilst getting a degree.
Wild
By: Cheryl Strayed
This book is great for hikers, and those wanting inspiration to make a big change.
You probably know this story from the movie featuring Reese Witherspoon – it’s a great one. But you don’t need me to tell you that the books are always better! Do yourself a favor and read the full account of Cheryl’s journey.
The Alchemist
By: Paulo Coelho
This book is a good choice for dreamers, and solo travelers.
A book about following your dreams, told as a mystical story but carrying a much deeper message.
Tracks
By: Robyn Davidson
This book is a great read for all animal lovers.
Robyn travels 2800km+ across the Australian outback with four camels and a dog.
Music
I highly recommend you download all of your music to your device so that you can listen to it offline – perfect for when you’re on the open road with no service! Browse ready-made playlists or create your own – here are my recommendations.
Classic Acoustic – Mostly older acoustic songs, a cultured and classic vibe.
Roadtripping Across Americana – All American songs both old and new.
Escape – My own travel-inspired collection of favorite songs. You won’t know until you try it!
Plan Your Road Trip Today
Ready to book your next camper van road trip? Book today to start your next adventure. Now that you know the best podcasts, books, and music to bring; you have everything you need!