Spending hours on end in a car can be draining, particularly if you have to do the journey regularly. Long commutes mean that you’re likely to spend hours sat behind the wheel and, as a result, you may find yourself tiring of your usual playlist quicker than usual; a podcast is a fantastic alternative. With new instalments uploaded monthly, weekly or even daily, your listening material is constantly updated, turning your journeys into a breeze. What’s more is that they are also good options if a road trip is on the horizon, with many appropriate for the whole family!
If you’re looking to head out on the open road after buying one day car insurance, making sure that you have the perfect soundtrack to accompany your journey is crucial. However, if you’re yet to dive into the world of podcasts, it can be hard to know where to start. In this guide, we will run you through some of the top picks for you to fall in love with when driving in the UK. From family favourites, the ultimate UK road trip companions and the perfect pick-me-up for your morning jaunt, find out what podcasts you should be listening to whilst driving in this guide.
Work commute
Whether you’re a morning person or not, listening to a podcast that can both wake you up and stimulate your mind is important. This way, you will head into work prepared and ready for the day ahead. If your mornings are rushed and involve you quickly sipping on a cup of coffee, you may find that there isn’t enough time to catch up with the news. Podcasts such as The Daily and Today in Focus make a great alternative to switching on TVs in the morning and mean that you can go a little longer being screen-free.
With a number of different genres for you to explore, from topical news podcasts to something a bit grittier, such as True Crime Enthusiast, you’ll be spoilt for choice on your drive to the office. We spoke to Laura from Miss LJ Beauty who loves this particular podcast for what makes it a good listen:
“My favourite podcasts tend to be true crime – I am obsessed with True Crime Enthusiast. This podcast is based around British true crime stories which tend to be the lesser-known crimes. I am actually late to the party and only on season 3, but there have been so many fantastic episodes.
“What I really like is that Paul, the host and writer of the podcast, also does listener written episodes which add a whole new element to the podcast. If like me, you’re a true crime junkie you need this podcast in your life.”
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something different to start your day, why not The Hustle Hotline? We spoke to Char, one of the co-hosts to tell us a little bit more about what you can expect from each episode.
“The Hustle Hotline is a straight-talking millennial podcast hosted by Char and Jess D. Based on a radio show, each episode is themed on topics affecting us millennials from careers, dating, self-care, mental health and being a go-getter. The first episode deals with ‘things we’ve done in the name of self-care’ and the most recent tackles ‘side hustles’.
“Jess D is a social media guru and freelancer with 8 years in the industry behind her belt. She has recently launched her own lipstick line – By Jess D which keeps her more than busy. She has a penchant for Nollywood movies, all things fashion and bossing it online.
“Char is a 9-5er with a love for travel and her content shows you don’t have to quit your job to travel the world. She has a thriving travel and lifestyle blog as well as writing for online platforms – Plus Minus Magazine and Cohorted.”
Family getaway
There’s nothing better than bundling your loved ones into the car for head to an exciting destination – that is until you head the chorus of “are we there yet?” from the backseat. It can sometimes be tempted to award your children with their iPad or tablet, but this means that their eyes are locked to the screen for the duration of the journey, often missing some of the best views from outside the window. A podcast is a great alternative and with so many to choose from, you can find one that appeals to the whole family.
For the inquisitive type, But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids is a great option. Created by NPR, kids can submit their own questions to be answered in future episodes and lasting for just over 20 minutes, they’re the perfect length to keep little ones entertained. If you’re embarking on an early morning road trip and are hoping to keep your children asleep for a little while longer, the Peace Out podcast could help. Featuring breathing exercises which are perfect for relaxation, they use a number of breathing techniques in collaboration with visual exercises to keep them calm.
The best podcasts to listen to when driving
If you’re looking for some new listening material for your next journey, then take a look at some of these great choices:
- The Daily
- Today in Focus
- True Crime Enthusiast
- The Hustle Hotline
- But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids
- Peace Out
