Introduction: Why We Love Destiel Time Travel Fics
If you’re a fan of Supernatural, you already know the powerful bond between Dean Winchester and Castiel. Their chemistry sparked countless fanfics over the years, creating the beloved ship we call Destiel.
One fan-favorite trope is Best Destiel Time Travel Fics. There’s something magical about seeing Dean and Cas cross centuries, fix the past, or meet under different timelines. It adds layers of emotion — longing, discovery, second chances — and gives their relationship even more depth.
In this article, we’ll explore the best Destiel time travel fics that you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Whether you want epic adventures, historical romance, or emotional reunions, there’s a fic here for you!
What Makes a Good Destiel Time Travel Fic?
Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about what makes these fics special:
- Strong Character Voices: Dean and Cas should feel real and true to their TV personalities.
- Creative Time Settings: From medieval kingdoms to post-apocalyptic futures, a great setting makes the journey exciting.
- Emotional Payoff: Time travel fics often deal with loss, hope, and destiny — perfect ingredients for a touching Destiel story.
- Smooth Plot Twists: The best stories handle the complexities of time travel without confusing readers.
Now, let’s look at the best ones!
1. Carry On, Wayward Sons by Duckyboos
Summary:
Dean wakes up in 1943 after a freak accident with an angelic artifact. Stranded in the past, he meets a much younger Castiel — who has no idea who Dean is.
Why It’s Great:
- Beautiful slow-burn romance.
- Detailed historical setting.
- Heartbreaking tension as Dean tries not to change history.
Word Count: Around 85,000 words.
2. Twist and Shout by Gabriel and StandByMe
Summary:
Set in the 1960s, this AU (Alternate Universe) fic sees Dean and Cas meeting during the Vietnam War era. While not “traditional” time travel, it’s a beloved classic for historical Destiel lovers.
Why It’s Great:
- Deep emotional storytelling.
- Perfect period details: music, fashion, culture.
- Be warned: it’s beautiful but devastating.
Word Count: Around 70,000 words.
3. The Road Less Traveled by Thep0rnfairy
Summary:
After an accident with a cursed object, Dean and Castiel find themselves thrown into the far future — a world where Heaven and Hell have long since fallen silent.
Why It’s Great:
- Post-apocalyptic vibes done right.
- Dean’s protective instincts and Cas’s faith are central.
- Thoughtful world-building.
Word Count: Around 95,000 words.
4. In a Mirror, Darkly by Annie D
Summary:
Dean is pulled into an alternate timeline where Castiel never fell from Heaven, and the two are enemies. Dean must figure out how to fix the timeline without losing the Cas he knows and loves.
Why It’s Great:
- Emotional conflict at its best.
- Great moral dilemmas.
- Amazing exploration of “what could have been.”
Word Count: Around 60,000 words.
5. Someday I’ll Find My Way Home by Awed_frog
Summary:
Cas falls through time, appearing in different versions of Dean’s life — from young teenager Dean to future hunter Dean. Each jump reveals something new about their bond.
Why It’s Great:
- Creative use of non-linear storytelling.
- Sweet, slow realization of love.
- Very touching character growth.
Word Count: Around 40,000 words.
6. Through the Sands of Time by Mapleleafcandy
Summary:
Dean and Castiel get trapped in ancient Egypt after a failed spell. They must survive while searching for a way back home — and fighting growing feelings they can’t ignore.
Why It’s Great:
- Unique setting not often seen in fanfic.
- Great tension between survival and romance.
- Rich descriptions of the ancient world.
Word Count: Around 50,000 words.
7. To Build a Home by MissLucyJane
Summary:
Dean is sent back to 1983 — before Mary Winchester’s death. He tries to avoid getting involved, but he meets a human version of Castiel living nearby. Choices must be made.
Why It’s Great:
- Deep themes of family, fate, and sacrifice.
- Very moving alternate timeline possibilities.
- Tender Destiel moments throughout.
Word Count: Around 100,000 words.
Themes You’ll Find in Destiel Time Travel Fics
Destiel time travel stories often play with emotional and philosophical themes:
- Fate vs Free Will: Can you change destiny?
- The Power of Memory: What happens if one remembers but the other forgets?
- Found Family: Creating new bonds across timelines.
- Loss and Hope: Facing heartbreaking goodbyes — and hopeful reunions.
These fics don’t just entertain — they make you feel deeply.
Tips for Reading Destiel Time Travel Fics
If you’re diving into these stories for the first time, here are a few quick tips:
- Check Tags Carefully: Some stories have heavy angst or character death warnings.
- Be Ready for Long Reads: Many time travel fics are multi-chapter epics — perfect for a cozy weekend binge.
- Bring Tissues: Even happy stories might get very emotional.
- Join Communities: Sites like Archive of Our Own (AO3), Fanfiction.net, and Tumblr Destiel fandom groups are great places to find even more recommendations.
Conclusion: A Timeless Love
The love story between Dean Winchester and Castiel already feels timeless. That’s why Destiel time travel fics hit so hard — they take the love we know and stretch it across centuries, worlds, and endless possibilities.
Whether it’s saving each other in ancient Egypt, finding hope after the apocalypse, or fixing broken timelines, Destiel fics remind us that some bonds are strong enough to survive anything — even time itself.
So grab your favorite blanket, pour some coffee, and start exploring the best Destiel time travel stories. There’s a whole multiverse of love waiting for you.
FAQs About Destiel Time Travel Fics
Q1. Where can I find Destiel time travel fanfics?
You can find them on Archive of Our Own (AO3), Fanfiction.net, or Destiel-specific Tumblr groups.
Q2. Are time travel fics usually angsty?
Many are emotional, but there’s a great mix of happy endings, bittersweet stories, and adventure-based fics too!
Q3. How long are most Destiel time travel fics?
They vary — from short one-shots of 5,000 words to long epics of over 100,000 words.
Q4. Are there historical Destiel fics?
Yes! Many fics feature historical settings like the 1940s, the 1960s, ancient Egypt, and even medieval times.
Q5. Is “Twist and Shout” considered a time travel fic?
Not exactly, but it’s a classic historical AU that feels like a time-travel journey to another era!
