Best eAudiobooks for family road trips

Audiobooks are a brilliant way to keep kids entertained while soaking in the scenery, and they let the driver focus on the road with a great story in their ears. 

 

Remember slotting CDs into the car radio on long drives? Those beloved stories from childhood haven’t been lost in time – they’ve just gone digital! Many of the audiobooks you enjoyed as a kid are now accessible online for free through your library, along with a whole world of new stories.

From laugh-out-loud comedies to magical adventures and gripping survival stories, we’ve rounded up a selection of eAudiobooks that are perfect for family road trips. 

How to borrow eAudiobooks from the library

Borrowing eAudiobooks is easy. Using your library card number, you can access platforms like BorrowBox, OverDrive, the Libby app and more. 

Find and borrow titles via the library catalogue or directly via these online platforms. If you're searching via the catalogue, select your chosen book and find the 'eAudiobook' tab. Simply click 'Request it' to be taken to the right platform.

Download your picks ahead of time so you can listen offline, anytime. Got a specific title in mind? Be sure to plan ahead – just like physical books, popular titles may have a waitlist. If you’re looking last-minute, just browse by the filter ‘Available now’ and instantly download your favourites!

Family-friendly eAudiobooks

1. Holes by Louis Sachar

Interest age: 8+

Stanley Yelnats is sent to a juvenile detention centre where the boys must dig holes daily as part of a mysterious rehabilitation programme. But as Stanley uncovers the truth behind the camp’s strange rules, a fascinating story of family curses and buried treasure unfolds.

A modern classic that parents might remember from their own childhood, Holes is a clever, multi-layered story that will spark nostalgia for adults and captivate younger listeners with its mystery and humour. 

2. The Parent Agency by David Baddiel

Interest age: 9-13

What if you could choose your parents? When Barry makes this wish, he’s whisked away to The Parent Agency, where he gets to pick from a lineup of perfect parents – or so he thinks. This hilarious and imaginative story will have the whole family laughing, while offering thoughtful insights about what really matters in family life.

With its witty humour and surprising twists, it’s a treat for tamariki and grown-ups who’ve secretly wondered what it would be like to be in Barry’s shoes.

3. Princess Mirror-Belle by Julia Donaldson

Interest age: 5-8

Ellen’s mirror reflection comes to life as the mischievous Princess Mirror-Belle, leading to all kinds of magical mayhem. Julia Donaldson’s signature charm shines in these whimsical tales.

With its playful humour and magical mischief, this audiobook will enchant younger listeners and amuse grown-ups.

4. Huda and Me by H. Hayek

Interest age: 9-13

Huda is no ordinary little sister – she’s clever, determined and on a mission to help her family. When she takes her brother Akeal on a whirlwind adventure from Melbourne to Lebanon, they encounter a world of challenges and surprises. This heartfelt tale is as much about sibling love as it is about finding one’s place in the world.

Packed with humour and heartfelt moments, this journey through two cultures will spark conversations long after the last chapter.

5. The Best Birthday Bike by Sir Chris Hoy

Interest age: 5-8

Fergus Hamilton, a boy who always dreams big, gets a rusty old bike for his ninth birthday from his mum and granddad. When the pedals turn backwards, Fergus and his dog, Chimp, are magically transported to Nevermore, a land where cycling is banned by the wicked King Woebegot. 

This short story is filled with humour and relatable family moments. At only 1 hour long, it’s a short, fun listen that younger kids will giggle over, while parents enjoy its heartfelt message.

6. Danny Chung Does Not Do Maths by Maisie Chan

Interest age: 9-12

Danny’s world is turned upside down when his grandma from China moves in, bringing her sharp mahjong skills and quirky personality with her. As Danny learns there’s more to his grandma than meets the eye, he discovers hidden strengths in himself too. 

The story deals with British East/Southeast Asian prejudice in a way that readers in primary school can easily understand and explores links between maths and art in an inspiring way. Funny, touching and full of cultural richness, this story shows how family members can surprise us.

7. Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Interest age: 9+

Percy Jackson discovers he’s a demigod and embarks on a thrilling quest to prevent a war among the gods. Packed with action, Greek mythology and sharp humour, this first instalment of the Percy Jackson series is a hit for all ages.

While it’s already a beloved classic for today’s young readers, parents may find it reminiscent of the adventurous stories they enjoyed growing up. It’s a fun series for generations to connect over!

8. How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell (David Tennant narration)

Interest age: 6+

Follow Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III as he struggles to live up to Viking expectations and train his stubborn dragon, Toothless. 

This heartwarming and hilarious tale is a modern classic. It gives parents a chance to relive the funny and adventurous stories they loved as kids while delighting a new generation of dragon lovers. David Tennant’s delightful narration makes this story soar.

9. The Red Red Dragon by Lynne Reid Banks

Interest age: 9-12

Red is a rare red dragon who lives with his Mag and Dag in a world where dragons and Uprights are sworn enemies. Then Red meets his first Upright, a girl called Lou, who is nothing like he had imagined: she's smart, and funny – and kind! As the pair become friends, Red learns that not only can the two species live in harmony, but maybe it's his destiny to bring them back together. This enchanting story brims with whimsical charm. 

10. Monster Hunting for Beginners by Ian Mark

Interest age: 7-11

When Jack accidentally becomes a monster hunter, he’s plunged into a world of danger, hilarity and truly bizarre creatures. This is a tale packed with action and silliness in equal measure. Its ridiculous humour and fast-paced plot ensure there’s never a dull moment.

11. Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz (Alex Rider series)

Interest age: 9+

Alex Rider, a 14-year-old spy, is thrust into the world of espionage after his uncle’s mysterious death. With gadgets, danger and heart-pounding action, this series is like James Bond for a younger audience.

A classic in the action-adventure genre, Stormbreaker offers nostalgic spy vibes for parents while keeping everyone hooked with its fast-paced plot and high-stakes drama.

12. Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell

Interest age: 10+ due to its intensity.

In a hidden archipelago, mythical creatures like fire-breathing horses and ice bears come to life. When Christopher and Mal stumble into this magical world, they must navigate its dangers to save someone they love.

This rich fantasy is ideal for families who love stories like Harry Potter. Parental guidance is advised, as the villain meets a terrible fate and the hero goes through a creepy experience defeating him. Older kids and adults alike will be enchanted by Rundell’s masterful storytelling.

13. The Explorer by Katherine Rundell

Interest age: 8-12

Four children crash-land in the Amazon rainforest and must survive against the odds. With its vivid descriptions of jungle life and thrilling plot twists, this story is a gripping adventure that explores themes of bravery, resourcefulness and friendship.

It’s like an audiobook survival guide – complete with excitement, danger and heartwarming moments.

14. A Bit of Earth by Karuna Riazi

Interest age: 8+

Maria, a lonely immigrant girl, discovers an overgrown garden that transforms her life. This stunning reimagining of The Secret Garden explores loss, belonging and healing in a deeply moving way. The lyrical storytelling and brilliant ending make this one unforgettable for all ages.

15. Bob by Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead

Interest age: 8-12

When Livy returns to her grandmother’s house after five years, she finds Bob, a quirky, green creature hiding in the closet. She’s forgotten their friendship, but Bob hasn’t – and now it’s up to them to solve the mystery of where Bob belongs.

This whimsical tale is bursting with charm, humour and heart, making it a delightful listen for little ones while keeping parents intrigued by the puzzle at its core.

16. Dogtown by Katherine Applegate

Interest age: 8-12

Chance, a real dog, has been in the Dogtown shelter since her owners unwittingly left her with irresponsible dog-sitters who skipped town. Metal Head is a robot dog who dreams of being back in a real home. 

This tender tale of friendship and second chances will tug at your heartstrings. With its lovable cast of characters and touching message, it’s a story that kids and adults will adore.

17. The Adventures of Miss Petitfour by Anne Michaels

Interest age: 6-9

Miss Petitfour leads a delightfully eccentric life, flying across the sky with her 16 cats using a tablecloth as a parachute. Her whimsical adventures are full of wordplay, fun, and imagination.

Bite-sized stories brimming with silliness and charm make this audiobook ideal for younger children.

18. Nell and the Cave Bear by Martin Brown

Interest age: 5-8

Nell and her lovable companion, Cave Bear, embark on heartwarming adventures in prehistoric times. Together, they learn about bravery, kindness, and the joys of exploration.

The stories’ gentle pace and endearing characters create a comforting, cosy listening experience for younger travellers.

19. Magnus Powermouse by Dick King-Smith

Interest age: 5-8

Magnus Powermouse, a larger-than-life rodent, embarks on epic adventures full of clever twists and animal antics. Dick King-Smith’s storytelling is truly timeless. It’s funny, smart and endlessly entertaining. Ideal for families who love animal stories. 

20. Shipwreck by Gordon Korman

Interest age: 9-12

Six kids find themselves stranded on a deserted island after their shipwreck survival course takes a disastrous turn. Adventure, teamwork and survival skills are key to this thrilling tale.

Packed with high-stakes drama and relatable characters, this one will keep listeners on the edge of their seats. It’s also the beginning of the ‘Island’ series, so you can continue the adventure on your next trip!

21. The Jamie and Angus Stories by Anne Fine

Interest age: 5-8

This delightful collection of gentle tales follows Jamie and his beloved toy, Angus, as they navigate the ups and downs of childhood.

Sweet, funny and relatable, these short stories are perfect for younger listeners and parents will appreciate their warmth and wit. The stories are short enough for smaller driving stints or breaks between journeys. 

With these stories in your playlist, your next family road trip is sure to be a memorable adventure. 

Don’t have a library card yet? It’s super easy and it’s free! Sign up online today for instant access to eAudiobooks, eBooks, learning courses and so much more. You can also find your nearest library to pick up your card or sign up in person.