A family road trip is an experience that is hard to beat, but we all know long car journeys can be tough for kids. While it’s easy to resort to screens to keep younger passengers entertained, podcasts are a great screen-free alternative for breaking up the monotony—and they’re less work than multiple rounds of I Spy.
These easy-to-download audio programs can be funny and educational, and even spark interesting conversations. They are also a great way to get your tots, tweens, and even teens interested in the world around them. Podcasts are usually available on Apple, Google, and even Spotify. When you’re planning your next road trip, make sure you download a few to your device ahead of time.
Check out our favorite podcasts, from short, focused programs perfect for younger listeners to long-form shows to inspire the whole family.
Six Minutes
Best For: All Ages
This gripping mystery adventure, from the creators of the award-winning podcast series The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel, is about an 11-year-old girl named Holliday who is pulled from the icy waters of Alaska with no memory of who she is or where she came from. Each episode will keep listeners of all ages on the edge of their seats. Each one is only about six minutes long, so you can string them together for a long trip or even catch a whole show in a short commute.
The Big Fib
Best For: Ages 4-10
Time will fly when you listen to this enthralling game show podcast, and kids can learn deductive reasoning skills, too. Each week, a young contestant interviews two experts about a particular topic. One is a real-life expert; the other is a liar. The contestant must ask tricky questions to see if they can uncover the fake. Previous themes include grapes, pizza, and glaciers.
Julie’s Library
Best For: Ages 4-10
Screen legend Julie Andrews and her daughter, children’s author Emma Walton Hamilton, bring children’s picture books to life with sound effects, music, and activities. Past episodes include What is My Superpower and Dumpy the Dump Truck. There are also regular guest appearances by celebrities.
Moment of Um
Best For: All Ages
Moment of Um is a brand-new podcast from the makers of kid-favorite Brains On. Debuting in January 2022, it is sure to keep curious kids engrossed as they find out the answers to intriguing questions like, “Why do giraffes tongues look blue?” and “Why do peaches have fuzz on them?”
The Past and the Curious
Best For: Ages 8-14
This family favorite makes history fun and engaging for younger listeners—and their parents. Your crew can learn all about the likes of Marie Antoinette, Levi Strauss, The Harlem Globetrotters, and many other fascinating personalities from the past. The Past and the Curious has been going since 2016, so there are plenty of episodes to line up for your next road trip.
This American Life
Best For: Teens
For hard-to-please teens, the popular weekly public radio program and podcast is the perfect solution. Each episode in This American Life provides an entertaining take on news stories around a specific theme. Popular episodes for teens include Switched at Birth, Notes on Camp, and 129 Cars. You can also check out their list of listener-recommended episodes to play back as a family.
Family Road Trip Trivia Podcast
Best For: All Ages
Who will be crowned the king or queen of car trivia with the Family Road Trip Trivia Podcast? This interactive series covers a wide array of themes, such as pop culture, Harry Potter, Disney, general knowledge, and science. There’s something to appeal to every passenger, big and small.
