35 Best Audiobooks For Family Road Trips – An Ultimate Guide

What are the best audiobooks for family road trips?

As a family of four we take lots of long family road trips together.  We take at least one long road trip a year.  We’ve previously spent weeks exploring Mexico, a month in Eastern Europe and most recently 2 months in Portugal and Morocco. Along the way, we’ve listened to some of the best audiobooks for family road trips to keep us and our young kids entertained!  What’s fantastic is that some of the best books for kids have been made into family-friendly audiobooks.  And, they’re great for flights too!

Please don’t get us wrong, we also let our boys have screen time, sing silly songs, have mini meltdowns, eat a million snacks and have umpteen toilet stops along the way.  We are, after all, human too!  However, we wanted to share some of our love of family-friendly audiobooks with you as they are a great way of entertaining kids.  We’ve put together a list of the best family audiobooks for long road trips.

Quick Guide To The Best Audiobooks For Family Road Trips

Best for very young kids – Anything by Julia Donaldson, especially the Gruffalo

Funny audiobooks – The World’s Worst Teachers by David Walliams

Best classic audiobooks – The Roald Dahl Audio Collection

Best for animal lovers – Wild Side by Dara McAnulty

The Best Audio Books For Family Road Trips: For Younger Kids From 2-5 year olds

We, and our boys love Julia Donaldson and apologise (well, maybe don’t) for the start of this list including five of her books. We just couldn’t help ourselves as they’re just so much fun!

1. The Singing Mermaid by Julia Donaldson: Read by Lauren Laverne

The Singing Mermaid, tempted by the promise of fame and fortune joins a circus. Whilst the visiting crowds love her, the poor mermaid is sadly kept in a tank by the wicked circus owner Sam Sly.  Because of this she soon longs to return to the freedom of her ocean home.

2. The Hospital Dog by Julia Donaldson: Read by Floella Benjamin

This heartwarming story is about a dog named Dot who brings joy and comfort to patients in a hospital. Through Dot’s adventures, the story celebrates the healing power of companionship and kindness. This is the best audio book to share with young kids that helps to make hospitals a less scary place.

3. The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson: Read by Imelda Staunton

A popular kids question is have you met the Gruffalo? With his terrible tusks and terrible claws? We love these family-friendly audio books. We can join the quick-witted mouse as he takes a stroll through the deep dark wood. And as he avoids being a meal for a fox, an owl, a snake and even the Gruffalo! The Gruffalo is an undisputed modern classic with wonderful rhyming words that will help your child’s phonetic skills. This much-loved book will be asked for again and again by the entire family!

4. What The Ladybird Said at the Seaside by Julia Donaldson: Read by Alexander Armstrong

The clever little ladybird is off for a day out at the beach. However, there are two bad men called Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh, who are up to no good again. In this perfect audiobook, you’ll join the ladybird as she meets a cast of sea creatures. And stops Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh from getting up to their usual tricks. 

5. Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson: Read by Josie Lawrence

The last of the Julia Donaldson books, we promise!  Well, there are more that we could add. However, we thought that we should probably end with this one and cover some other authors too, haha|. The Room on the Broom is about a witch who flies along on her broom and offers rides to her helpful forest friends who help retrieve the lost items she drops along the way. Then, unexpectedly the broom snaps in half and the friends tumble down to where a hungry dragon is roaming around.

6. The Tiger Who Came to Tea  by Judith Kerr: Read by Geraldine McEwan

This is one of our favourite quick listens – everyone enjoys hearing about tiger coming to tea, right?  What we love is that it’s a very short one at only nine minutes long which is great as it appeals to younger kids with potentially shorter attention spans. In the story, a hungry tiger arrives at the door of Sophie and her mum, just as they are about to have their tea and starts to eat all of their food.

7. The Complete Tales Of Beatrix Potter: Read By David Crandall And Cynthia Franklin

These are the classic stories by Beatrix Potter and are perfect for younger kids as well as the whole family, everyone will enjoy the tale of Peter Rabbit. This one is fun because your child probably already knows the story and you might even be able to follow your own book at the same time as listening.

8. Stuart Little by E. B. White: Read by E.B. White

Stuart Little is a children’s classic starring a mouse called Stuart Little, and is very appropriate for younger kids. Stuart the mouse has big goals for his life, however, first, he’d like to find the little bird he befriended.  The whole family will enjoy Stuart’s great adventures as he sets off in his miniature toy car to find the bird.

9. Winne-the-Pooh and Me by Jeanne Willis: Read by Alfred Enoch

A fantastic list as someone comes along to join Winnie-the-Pooh and Christopher Robin on their adventure, but who could it be? It can’t be Kanga and Roo because they’re sailing a boat.   And it can’t be Owl, because he’s at home. Could it be the huge Heffalumps who want to eat Pooh’s beloved honey?  You’ll soon find out in this beautifully narrated tale.

10. Favourite Stories by Campbell Books: Read by Floella Benjamin

This delightful collection of ten popular fairy tales is read by Playschool presenter Floella Benjamin.  It features added sound effects and music for extra fun which we love. It’s great because all of your favourite stories are here, from The Princess and the Pea to Snow White. This collection is fantastic for keeping younger kids entertained whether that’s in the car or at home.

11. Mary Poppins by Pamela Lyndon Travers: Read By Olivia Coleman

The audio version of this family classic will be one that you will love listening to on a long drive. Mary Poppins is one of the best family-friendly audiobooks to keep young children entertained. Older children will love the engaging storytelling as well!

12. The Trumpet Of The Swan by E. B. White: Read By E. B. White

This feel good audiobook, tells the story of Louis, a trumpeter swan born without a voice, who learns to communicate using a trumpet stolen for him by his father. Louis goes on a journey of self-discovery, love, and adventure, ultimately finding his place in the world.

13. The Mercy Watson Series by Kate DiCamillo: Read By Ron McLarty

The series follows the adventures of Mercy Watson, a lovable and sometimes mischievous pig who lives with the Watson family. Each book features humorous and charming stories about Mercy’s escapades, often involving food, neighbours, and unexpected events.  We were first introduced to this series in paperback version but this is one of those cases where a good book series makes for great audiobooks. They are just so hilarious!

The Best Audiobooks For Family Road Trips: For Older Kids from 6-12 year olds

14. The Roald Dahl Audio Collection: Read By Roald Dahl

This is the audio version of classics like James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and the Fantastic Mr. Fox.  The Roald Dahl Audio Collection is sure to please the whole family. We particularly love that the stories are narrated by the author himself.  I grew up having the entire collection in book form at home and can’t wait for the boys to listen to them especially as they are some of my favourite books.

15. The Harry Potter Audio Collection by J.K. Rowling: Read By Jim Dale

The Harry Potter books are probably some of the best and most popular books for young readers.  My niece loved reading or listening to these stories and then watching the corresponding movie. If you are traveling with young children you may want to limit yourself to the first book in the Harry Potter series as they get darker after that.

16. Percy Jackson And The Olympians Audio Collection By Rick Riordan: Read By Jesse Bernstein

There are 21 books in the Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan.  These stories transport listeners into a world where Greek mythology meets modern-day adventures. Narrated with lively energy and wit, the series follows Percy Jackson, a demigod with a penchant for trouble, as he embarks on quests to save both the mortal and immortal realms from chaos.  This is another great option for families who want to listen to audiobooks before then watching the movie. The Lightning Thief is the first book and one of my nephews favourites!

17. Chronicles Of Narnia Audio Collection C.S. Lewis: A Multi Voice Recording

These audio books will enchant children with their timeless tales of adventure, magic, and courage. The rich narration brings C.S. Lewis’s fantastical world to life and promises to transport audiences of all ages to the magical land of Narnia, where epic quests and unforgettable characters await.  

18. Lemony Snicket’s A Series Of Unfortunate Events Audio Collection by Lemony Snicket: A Multi Voice Recording

These books follow the misadventures of the Baudelaire orphans and their villainous relative Count Olaf. Tim Curry and other narrators bring these ghastly novels to life with dry wit and expert timing, this series is sure to enchant children with its unforgettable characters and suspenseful storytelling.

19. Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White: Read By E. B. White

A classic story of a pig named Wilbur and a young girl named Fern will delight kids of all ages. Children are transported to the idyllic farm where Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider form an unlikely bond. As Charlotte weaves her web of words to save Wilbur from a dire fate.  Due to the nature of what typically happens to pigs on a farm, you may want to reserve this audio book for older children. 

20. The Ice Monster by David Walliams: Read by Multiple British Actors

Children will follow the journey of young Elsie, a spirited Victorian girl, and her mammoth companion, Woolly, as they are whisked away to a frozen world of wonder and excitement. Through vivid narration and lively character voices, the audiobook brings to life the heartwarming tale of friendship, bravery, and the power of imagination.

21. The World’s Worst Teachers by David Walliams: Read by Multiple British Actors

This is a hilarious and irreverent exploration of some truly outrageous teachers. It brings to life a colourful cast of characters, from the absurdly strict Miss Spick and Span to the outrageously lazy Mr. Phobe. As the stories unfold, children are taken on a wild and uproarious ride through the antics and misadventures of these unconventional teachers, making it an entertaining and laugh-out-loud experience for audiences of all ages.

22. The Boy Who Grew Dragons by Andy Shepherd: Read by Ewan Goddard

Children will follow the adventures of young Tomas and his extraordinary dragon-growing exploits, they will be transported to a world filled with magic, wonder, and heartwarming friendships. Through engaging storytelling and lively narration, this audiobook captures the imagination and delights audiences of all ages.

23. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett: Read By Gus Jones

As the story unfolds, listeners are transported to the mysterious and wondrous world of Misselthwaite Manor.  There a young Mary Lennox discovers a hidden garden and unlocks its transformative power.  If you’re into classics then this is definitely one to listen too – just don’t forget the tissues for those tear wrenching moments.

24. A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L’Engle: A Multi Voice Recording

Sometimes on a car journey you might want to travel in time.  This book with time travel is the next best thing.

This is the fantastical tale of Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe embark on a quest to rescue Meg’s father from the clutches of darkness,  It captivates with its blend of science fiction, fantasy, and profound themes of love and courage.

25. Peter And The Star Catchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson: Read By Jim Dale

Ever wondered how Peter Pan landed in his own fairy tale? Telling the tale of Peter before he met Wendy, Peter and the Star Catchers is an adventure story that will make long trips go quickly.  Listeners are transported to a captivating world where the origins of Peter Pan unfold telling the tale of how he met Wendy.  As Peter and his friends journey across the high seas in pursuit of a mysterious trunk filled with magical starstuff, the audiobook immerses listeners in a thrilling adventure filled with swashbuckling pirates, daring escapades, and the wonder of Neverland. 

26. How To Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell: Read By David Tennant

Cam loves the movie so it has been fun to get to listen to the audiobook as well. How to Train Your Dragon follows the adventures of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock II as he tries to pass the Viking initiation test by capturing and training a Dragon. Hiccup ends up as a hero, and he’ll be the hero of your long road trip too by entertaining your kids!

27. Little House On The Prairie Series by Laura Ingalls Wilder: Read By Cherry Jones

Did you know that the Little House in the Big Woods was the first book written in the Little House on the Prairie series? And that Little House on the Prairie is in fact the third book of the entire series.  The Little House books are a classic coming-of-age story with glimpses into the hardships and joy of pioneer life in the US.

28. The Land Of Stories Series by Chris Colfer: Read By Chris Colfer

The Wishing Spell is the first book of this fast-paced great series that combines modern-day with fairy tales where listeners are taken on an enchanting journey to a world where fairy tales come to life. The Land of Stories brings to life the adventures of twins Alex and Conner Bailey as they navigate magical kingdoms, encounter iconic fairy tale characters, and confront dark forces threatening their world.

29. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkein: Read By Martin Shaw

The Hobbit was my first introduction to fantasy books when I read it at school at 9 years old, and today is one of Carl’s favourite books.  There is no better introduction to fantasy than by reading a J.R.R. Tolkien book. The Hobbit follows Bilbo Baggins on his great adventure.  With masterful narration that captures the essence of Tolkien’s richly imagined world, the audiobook immerses listeners in a tale of courage, friendship, and the battle between good and evil.  Listeners of all ages will be drawn into the fantastical world.

30. Wild Child by Dara McAnulty:  Read by Dara McAnulty

Award-winning naturalist and activist Dara McAnulty invites readers to take a walk on the wild side with him. Dara himself narrates the story to a lush backdrop of nature sounds, from babbling water to soaring bird songs. He explores the different habitats, and tells readers how to spot a rich variety of birds, plants and animals.  He also demystifies the categorisation of animals and explains amazing and interesting happenings such as metamorphoses and migration.

31. The 13 Story Treehouse by Andy Griffiths: Read by Stig Wemyss

The first in Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton’s hugely popular Treehouse series, The 13-Storey Treehouse is a laugh-out-loud story following Andy and Terry’s on their wacky treehouse adventures. The story tells how the friends live in the world’s best treehouse, with a secret lab, a giant catapult and even a marshmallow machine! The first book in this hilarious series is sure to leave even the most reluctant listeners wanting to listen to more.

32. Into the Jungle by Katherine Rundell: Read by Nicole Arumugam

I have to say, that one of my favourite stories and movies growing up was The Jungle Book, and I loved listening to this book.  Into the Jungle takes Rudyard Kipling’s classic book The Jungle Book as the beginning point for these enchanting new stories that cover the early years of Kipling’s much-loved characters, from Shere Khan to Baloo. As Mowgli travels through the jungle, each short story comes together as a whole in this fantastic reading by Nicole Arumugam. This audiobook is one all the family will enjoy listening to.

33. Sabotage on the Solar Express by M. G. Leonard & Sam Sedgman: Read by Jot Davies

In Sabotage on the Solar Express, a billionaire train enthusiast August Reza invites Harrison Beck and and his Uncle Nat on the maiden voyage of the Solar Express. However, during the journey they discover the train has been sabotaged and suddenly starts to hurtle passengers into a heart-stopping, action-packed, thrill ride across the Australian Outback. This thrilling audiobook can be enjoyed as a standalone story or as part of the book series.

34. Noah’s Gold by Frank Cottrell-Boyce: Read by Finnian Garbutt

Full of adventure and comic moments, this is the latest novel by Frank Cottrell-Boyce a multi-award-winning author. This audio book tells the story of eleven-year-old Noah who sneaks along to his sister’s geography field trip. And then chaos ensues when the teacher disappears and the six kids are left on an island to fend for themselves. Disaster looms, until Noah discovers a treasure map and they begin a  hunting for gold.

35. Runaway Robot by Frank Cottrell-Boyce: Read by Ben Bailey Smith

This funny and heartwarming adventure from Frank Cottrell Boyce is about two best friends called Alfie and Eric who help to put each other back together. Alfie finds a lot more than he bargained for when he head to the Airport Lost Property.  He finds a giant robot called Eric! Eric is sure he’s the latest and best technology, however, he’s actually about to be consigned to the scrapheap. Can Alfie find a way to save his new friend Eric? Your kids certainly won’t be arguing what to listen to with this funny audiobook on hand.

Why Are Audiobooks So Great For Long Family Road Trips?

– Audiobooks are a fantastic alternative to giving them too much screen time. We are very much the ‘whatever goes’ sort of parents when it comes to travel and screen time however, young kids have natural limits (and screens have limited charge!).

– Family-friendly audiobooks are a great way to spend some quality time in the car together. We love that the whole family can enjoy listening to the stories together.

– Audiobooks are very educational. There has been research showing that reading to your children is good for them! We’ve noticed that audiobooks are a great alternative to reading in the car for those of us (that means Carl!*) who get car sick easily!

* Yes, Carl the yacht captain suffers from terrible car and sea sickness.  And it’s the reason that he always drives on our long family road trips, as it helps to stop him feeling sick!

How To Listen To The Best Audiobooks For Family Road Trips?

You have a few options for listening to audiobooks on road trips!

– The easiest way is to purchase an audiobook from Audible, which is owned by Amazon or another audiobook app. You can then download the audiobooks onto your mobile or tablet devices and then either listen with headphones or stream via bluetooth to your car radio. What’s great is that you can get a free trial to Audible for 30 days so you can try it out for your next road trip and decide if its a good option for your family!

– Or, if you’d rather not have an app, then you can rent an audiobook from your local library. Most libraries still have CD’s, so you’ll need to make sure you have an old school CD player so your kids can actually listen to these audiobooks. A benefit of this way is that you only need a couple of cheap CD players and you can have different audiobook playing for each kid. 

Top tip from a travel family:  Invest in some good noise-cancelling headphones, especially if you want to use audiobooks on aeroplanes.

Final Thoughts on the Best Audiobooks for Family Road Trips

We listed our best audiobooks for family road trips, and really hope you enjoy listening to them. We’ve loved listening, laughing and reading along to them too!