By Monisha Iswaran, MyDeal
Some of the best memories of many people’s childhoods are busting a move to an awesome tune with their parents and siblings in the family car. You know those songs where you go “Dad ALWAYS plays that” or “Mum is crazy about this one”? Here is a list of 20 iconic songs that simply must be on your family road trip playlist! No one’s saying these have to be reserved strictly for road trips, they’re great to bop along to no matter what you’re doing. Pop the kids in a pram and play this epic playlist while you go on your daily walk. Or even take a ride with a bike trailer on the back of your bicycle so the kids can sway along to fantastic tunes while you get your workout in! No matter the occasion, this collection of oldies, classics and current top40 hits will keep you in high spirits!
1. “Route 66” by Bobby Troup
It’s rhythm, blues and essentially all about road tripping! What more could you want in fab car playlist?
2. “Mustang Sally” by Mack Rice
I think we can all agree this is a legendary song for any occasion, and the fact that it references a car makes it all the more relevant!
3. “Downtown” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
Trendy, recent and pure energy and exuberance in a song! This is one hit you want to be listening to as you cruise along.
4. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC
We just had to have this one in there, hit the highways as you hear these legends sing about one.
5. “Down Under” by Men at Work
You can’t help but feel proud to be Aussie if you hear this song start to play. Perhaps pull over and enjoy a vegemite sandwich while you listen!
6. “Great Southern Land” by Icehouse
Another Aussie classic you’ve got to add in there? The song that was Icehouse’s response to the tune we listed as number 5 above!
7. “Life is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts
Back to the highway references yet again – Rascal Flatts will have you bopping in your seat as you cruise down memory lane.
8. “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac
Does anyone ever really get sick of hearing this song? An anthem that will make you want to floor it and drive straight ahead.
9. “Are You Gonna Be My Girl?” by Jet
This one really has a little something for everyone. Rock & roll? Yes. Just general headbanging (for the little ones)? 100%.
10. “Khe Sanh” by Cold Chisel
This is a favourite for many, whether you’re in a car, at a campsite or in your own living room. Some would say you haven’t had the complete road trip experience without it.
11. “Livin On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi
This one hardly needs an explanation – an anthem all ages can appreciate!
12. “Hotel California” by The Eagles
The Eagles definitely have to feature on your playlist of iconic numbers. From “Life In The Fast Lane” to “Take It Easy” there must be one that tickles your fancy.
13. “Let It Go” from Frozen
This one’s especially for the kids! But who are we kidding? Frozen is just as much for the parents as it is for the little ones it’s targeting.
14. “Can’t Stop The Feeling” by Justin Timberlake
This relatively recent hit is great for adults and children alike. Justin just has that all-round appeal – evident as he went from “I’m bringing sexy back” to having his song featured in the kid’s movie “Trolls”.
15. “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana
An awesome, inspiring anthem that everyone loves. Revel in the mastermind that Lin Manuel Miranda is for writing these lyrics.
16. “Eileen” by Tin Marrow
Some songs are on here because they are simple yet wonderful, and this song is one of them. This is perfect for when it’s evening, the sun is setting and the family is ready for some chill time.
17. “On The Road Again” by Willie Nelson
Since this song is about the life of a performer on the road, it’s pretty apt for a travel tune.
18. “The House Of The Rising Sun” by The Animals
Most Road Trips involve at least one night-time section of the drive and this song is just perfect for that!
19. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
It’s pretty important to ensure your kids have a good, well-rounded taste in music, and they simply must be exposed to Queen!
20. “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton
This one’s old enough that parents would have heard it a few times, and recent enough that it’s sure to be one of your children’s favourites too, a win-win!
Your road trip is sure to be a mixture of a cruise down memory lane, a karaoke session and a dance party all in one if you’ve got this playlist on in the background!