Songs To Play On A Late Night Summer Road Trip

Picture this: Windows down, a sky full of stars, and the open road stretching before you like a ribbon of possibility. It's a late-night summer road trip, and the only thing missing is the perfect soundtrack.

Setting the Vibe: Cruising Classics

First, you need some anthems. Think "Born to Be Wild" by Steppenwolf – guaranteed to make you feel like you're starring in your own movie. Or "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond, because belting out "BAH BAH BAH!" with your friends at 2 AM is a rite of passage.

And don't forget "Hotel California" by The Eagles. Just try not to actually end up needing to check in somewhere unexpectedly!

Adding Some Indie Charm

Next, inject some indie vibes into the mix. Bon Iver's "Skinny Love" can be surprisingly cathartic when you're miles from anywhere. It's perfect for those reflective moments when you're contemplating life, the universe, and why you decided to eat that questionable gas station burrito.

For a bit of upbeat energy, throw in "Little Talks" by Of Monsters and Men. Its folksy charm is infectious, even if you can't quite pronounce the band's name correctly after a few hours on the road.

Then there's "The Suburbs" by Arcade Fire. It’s nostalgic and epic, making you feel like you're part of something bigger than just a car full of people hurtling down the highway.

Guilty Pleasures and Singalongs

No road trip playlist is complete without a healthy dose of guilty pleasures. We're talking ABBA's "Dancing Queen", Spice Girls' "Wannabe", and anything by Queen. Embrace the cheese, people!

These are the songs that everyone knows (or pretends not to know) all the words to. Crank them up and let the impromptu karaoke session begin.

Bonus points if you can hit all the high notes in "Bohemian Rhapsody" without waking up the rest of the car.

Unexpected Gems and Discoveries

Road trips are also a great time to discover new music. Let someone else take the reins and introduce you to their favorite band. You might just find your new obsession.

Consider adding a wildcard genre to the mix. Polka? Reggae? Mongolian throat singing? Why not! You never know what sonic treasure you might unearth.

The point is to keep things interesting and avoid that dreaded road hypnosis.

The Wind-Down: Calming Tunes for the Final Stretch

As dawn approaches and the miles start to blur, it's time to mellow out. Coldplay's "Clocks" is a classic for a reason, providing a soothing backdrop to the sunrise. Or maybe something by Fleet Foxes, their harmonies are perfect for easing you into the morning.

Instrumental music can also be a great option. Tycho's ambient soundscapes are like a sonic massage for your weary mind.

The goal is to create a sense of peace and anticipation as you approach your destination.

Remember the Most Important Rule!

Finally, remember the golden rule of road trip playlists: Share the DJ duties! The best playlists are collaborative efforts, reflecting the diverse tastes and personalities of everyone in the car.

After all, a road trip is about the journey, not just the destination. And the music is the thread that weaves it all together, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Now get out there and make some noise!