Long car journey coming up with the kids? A few good games and activities packed in the boot can be the difference between a peaceful drive and “are we there yet?” on repeat. Here are 5 fun ideas for car games for kids that are compact, mess-free, and easy to hand over from the back seat.
#1. Holiday Sticker Book (Usborne)
A holiday sticker book like the Usborne Holiday Sticker Book is a great one for car (or plane) journeys, with lots of different summer-themed scenes and hundreds of stickers to keep little fingers and minds busy for a while.
It includes tropical scenes such as a watery visit to Sea World, snorkelling on a coral reef, an African safari, and a log cabin camp.
“I like the beach page the best with the crab stickers” – Ellie, age 5
#2. Block by Block Creative Building Game
The Block by Block Creative Building Game
Block by Block helps players sharpen their visual perception and spatial thinking skills, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Oisín (10) says: “It’s fun, difficult, and sometimes the answers come to you at a completely random time.”
Download our free fun Car Puzzles Sheet!
#3. Hasbro Travel Connect 4
Hasbro Travel Connect 4
First to get four in a row – horizontally, vertically or diagonally – wins the game. The counters store neatly in the self-contained unit, so there’s nothing loose rolling around the car.
You might also enjoy our 30 fun games for car journeys.
#4. Eric Carle Animal Flash Cards
These beautiful Eric Carle Animal flash cards, featuring the familiar animal illustrations from the author of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar”, make a lovely introduction to the ABCs.
Printed on thick, sturdy board, they’re perfect for small hands to hold (and make gorgeous room decorations too).
Maria says: “These are great for keeping your toddler amused in the car.”
#5. Go Fishing – Take ‘N’ Play Anywhere Game
The Go Fishing – Take ‘N’ Play Anywhere Game is magnetic. Use the magnetic fishing poles to search for your colour fish!
Suitable for 2 to 4 players, ages 4 and up. Includes 16 magnetic fish, 4 magnetic fishing poles, a spinner, magnetic game board, and rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best car games for keeping kids entertained on long journeys?
Compact, mess-free games work best – sticker books, magnetic games, travel-sized versions of family favourites, and flash cards are all good options because they’re easy to hand over and easy to pack away again.
How can I keep a toddler occupied on a car journey?
Simple, sturdy activities like flash cards or a sticker book tend to work well for toddlers, since they don’t have small loose pieces and are easy for little hands to manage.
Are there travel-sized versions of classic games?
Yes – games like Connect 4 and fishing games are widely available in compact travel versions with self-contained storage, so pieces don’t get lost in the car.
What age are these car games suitable for?
It varies by game – flash cards and sticker books suit younger toddlers, while games like Block by Block and Go Fishing are generally aimed at children from around age 4 up. Always check the packaging for the specific age guidance.
More Ideas Like This
If this list helped fill a long journey, you’ll probably enjoy our 30 Fun Games for Car Journeys for even more ways to keep everyone entertained on the road. Browse our rainy day ideas for more indoor and travel-friendly activities for whenever the weather – or the motorway traffic – keeps you stuck inside.
Save This for Your Next Road Trip
Bookmark this page or save it to your phone before you head off, so you’ve got your list of car game ideas ready to go the next time you’re packing for a journey.
Don’t Miss Our Weekly Ideas
Want more activity ideas like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for the MyKidsTime newsletter for weekly ideas, activities, and things to do with the kids.
Do you have a great travel tip for keeping kids amused on long journeys? Share it with us in the comments below!
