Going on a Road Trip? Here Are 10 Songs to Get Your Mind Off the Road

I don't know about you, but when I've been on the interstate for hours and the local scenery just isn't doing it for me anymore, the last thing I need is to hear songs glorifying traveling the road. Don't get me wrong; those songs have their place, but sometimes you need a mental break from the car. Here are 10 road trip songs that always perk me up and get my mind off the road.

Should I Stay or Should I Go? by The Clash: This is a fun tune with which everyone's familiar. You and the others in the car can sing along and be silly about it without feeling embarrassed. After all, who is going to make fun of you for not sounding vocally perfect while singing a Clash song? If you really can't think of what this song is, here it is on YouTube.

Friends of P by The Rentals- A pretty pointless but catchy song, Friends of P is upbeat and the words are easy to learn. I probably haven't emphasized it enough, but songs to sing along with on a road trip can make for easy entertainment without being overly distracting. As with The Clash, it's nearly impossible to butcher this piece with your terrible vocals, so go crazy with it and get the whole group to join you. Listen to it here.

Let's Go to Bed by The Cure- I really like the way this one sounds. It's fast, and that's a plus because nothing is more unwelcomed by a driver than a soft lullaby of a song that may escalate their tiredness. This one will keep you awake without being annoyingly loud. Click here to check it out.

Peaches by The Presidents of the United States of America- Admit it; this song is a little bit funny but still makes you want to sway to the sound. You can sing along with Peaches; you can make fun of Peaches; you can think about eating a peach. Whatever you choose, you won't have the road on your mind; not unless you're driving to Georgia, that is. Give it a listen here.

Prove My Love by The Violent Femmes- I'm never unhappy when this song gets stuck in my head. It's a brilliantly likable tune that most anyone can enjoy. The lyrics are masterful and the sound is excellent. If you can feel sleepy while listening to this, you need to pull over and check in for the night. Listen to it here on Last FM.

Sunny Afternoon by The Kinks- This is a cool sounding piece that gets your head bopping, though it's not too fast or overly upbeat. No, it's not a slow song by any means, but I think it works well for the road trip when you want something calmer that won't lure you to sleep but still fun. Plus, it reeks of awesomeness, so there's that added benefit. Check it out here.

Ruby Tuesday by The Rolling Stones- This is a much slower and softer song than the others. However, I enjoy listening and singing along with it, especially with the chorus, whenever I'm on a road trip. It's good for group singing or just sitting back and enjoying. Click here to listen.

Sunday Girl by Blondie-"I know a girl from a lonely street; cold as ice cream but still as sweet." This song is cheery, fun and a great choice for road trip enjoyment. You can sing along with it, but I mostly just take pleasure in the sound and the mood it brings to the car. It's a great song. Listen here.

Just What I Needed by The Cars- Okay, the name of the band may remind you of being on a road trip, but the song is cool and has nothing to do with cars. Most people are familiar with this one and will find it a pleasing selection for your road trip playlist. If you cannot remember what it sounds like, click here.

Cities on Flame with Rock and Roll by Blue Öyster Cult- Cities on Flame with Rock and Roll rocks! I enjoy this song in any context, but for a road trip it's great because most listeners will like it, it's fun to sing with, and it's regarded as a rock classic, so if someone in the backseat complains, just tell them they have bad taste. To check out this song, click here.

I hope those selections help you get through that long drive. Have a great trip!