The Best Audiobooks to Keep You Company While Traveling

There’s something magical about queuing up the perfect audiobook as you settle in for a long drive, flight, or train ride. Audiobooks help the miles go by faster, make waiting in airports more enjoyable, and turn travel downtime into a little escape of its own. Whether I’m in the mood for a swoony romance, a rich fantasy world, or an inspiring true story, I always make sure I have a great audiobook ready to go.

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Here are my favorite genres and audiobooks I love to listen to while traveling—plus why I love my Audible Premium Plus Monthly Membership and never hit the road without downloading something new.

Romantic Escapes That Make Travel Fly By

When I travel, I often want something light, fun, and emotional in the best way—books that feel like a warm hug and keep me smiling from gate to gate.

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
Smart, quirky, and full of STEM-powered chemistry, this book is pure joy in audiobook form.

Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
Abby’s writing is funny, heartfelt, and emotional. Her narrators bring her characters to life in the most charming way.

Happy Place by Emily Henry
A must-listen for anyone who loves character-driven stories about love, friendship, and second chances.

Seatmate by Cara Bastone (Audible Original)
This one is perfect for travel because it literally takes place on a cross-country bus ride. It feels like you’re eavesdropping on the sweetest meet-cute ever.

Fantasy Romance for Total Escape

Sometimes traveling can be stressful, and nothing helps me unwind like getting completely lost in another world.

Books by Sarah J. Maas (A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, Crescent City)
These books are dramatic, romantic, full of action, and completely immersive. The audiobooks are long—in the best way—which makes them perfect for long travel days.

Memoirs & Biographies When I’m Feeling Inspired

When I need a break from fiction, I turn to real stories about fascinating people. Listening to a memoir feels like having a personal conversation that’s both inspiring and entertaining.

The Ride of a Lifetime by Bob Iger
The behind-the-scenes look at Disney’s biggest decisions. Insightful and even surprisingly emotional.

If Chins Could Kill by Bruce Campbell
A humorous, offbeat memoir from one of Hollywood’s cult icons. It’s witty, weird, and wildly entertaining.

Historical and Historically Inspired Page-Turners

These books make history come alive and often feel more thrilling than fiction.

The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
A blend of true crime and history surrounding the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair—it’s completely engrossing.

The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon
Sharon makes history accessible, moving, and deeply human. This one is perfect if you love learning about people who changed the world in quiet but powerful ways.

A Favorite for All Ages: Jason Reynolds

One of my favorite authors of all time is Jason Reynolds. While his books are marketed to young readers, his writing is powerful, poetic, and profound for adults as well.

The Track Series (Ghost, Patina, Sunny, Lu)
These short audiobooks are heartfelt, funny, and beautifully performed by the narrators.

New Release: Coach
His latest installment in the series is at the top of my wishlist, and I can’t wait to listen to it on my next trip.

Why I Love the Audible Premium Plus Membership

My travel routine simply wouldn’t be the same without my Audible Premium Plus membership. Here’s what makes it worth every penny:

• One Credit Every Month – I can use my credit on any premium title, no matter the price.
• Exclusive Access to Audible Originals – Like Seatmate by Cara Bastone, which instantly became a favorite.
• Download and Listen Offline – Essential for flights, cruises, and road trips where Wi-Fi is spotty.
• Keep Your Books Forever – Even if you cancel, every book you’ve redeemed with a credit is yours to keep.
• Plus Catalog – Unlimited listening to thousands of included titles. I always find something new to download right before I leave.

Whether I’m exploring a new destination or sitting at a departure gate, Audible helps transform travel time into “me time”—filled with adventure, romance, laughter, or inspiration.

Audiobooks have become my favorite travel companion. They help me unwind, make me laugh, and sometimes even teach me something new along the way. Whether you’re packing your bags for a quick weekend getaway or a long international flight, I highly recommend downloading one (or a few!) of these titles.

What type of audiobook do you like to listen to when you travel? Let me know so I can add to my list!