5 Fun Ideas for Car Games for Kids

Long car journeys with kids can feel endless — but a few well-chosen games and activities can make all the difference. Whether you’re heading off on holidays or just driving across town, having something ready to hand over at the first “are we there yet?” is a lifesaver.

Here are 5 fun ideas for car games for kids that are easy to pack, easy to use, and genuinely good at keeping little hands and minds busy on the road.

#1. Holiday Sticker Book (Usborne)

The Holiday Sticker Book (Usborne Sticker Books) is a great pick for car (or plane) journeys. It’s packed with summer-themed scenes and hundreds of stickers, giving little fingers and imaginations plenty to do.

Scenes include a watery visit to Sea World, snorkelling on a coral reef, a safari adventure, and a cosy 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 challenges players to combine seven puzzle pieces to build up to 60 different three-dimensional structures shown on the challenge cards.

It’s a great way to sharpen visual perception and spatial thinking — and it comes with a handy travel bag, making it easy to bring along.

Oisín (10) says, “It’s fun, difficult, and sometimes the answers come to you at a completely random time”.

Available from Amazon.co.uk

Download our free Car Puzzles Sheet for even more on-the-road fun!

#3. Hasbro Travel Connect 4

Hasbro Travel Connect 4 is a compact travel version of the classic game. Take turns dropping your coloured counters into the grid, trying to line up four in a row while blocking your opponent’s moves.

First to connect four — horizontally, vertically or diagonally — wins. The counters store neatly inside the self-contained unit, so there’s nothing to lose down the back of the car seat.

Available from Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com.

You might also enjoy our 30 fun games for car journeys.

#4. Eric Carle Animal Flash Cards

These beautiful Eric Carle Animal Flash Cards feature the familiar illustrations from the author of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’, making them a lovely, gentle introduction to letters and animals.

Printed on thick, sturdy board, they’re easy for small hands to hold — and pretty enough to double as room decorations once you’re home.

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 a magnetic fishing game. Use the magnetic fishing poles to try and catch your colour of fish before anyone else does.

Suitable for 2 to 4 players, ages 4 and up. Includes 16 magnetic fish, 4 magnetic fishing poles, a spinner, a magnetic game board and rules.

Available from Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com.

Do You Have a Favourite Travel Tip?

Every family has their own trick for keeping kids happy on a long drive. Do you have a game, toy or activity that always works? Share it with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear it.

More Ideas to Keep Kids Entertained

If you enjoyed these car game ideas, take a look at our 30 Fun Games for Car Journeys for even more inspiration, or browse our rainy day and family travel activity ideas for other ways to fill the hours when you’re stuck indoors or on the road.

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