Long car journey coming up with the kids? Whether it’s a short hop to visit family or a longer road trip, having a few tried-and-tested car games for kids up your sleeve can make all the difference to how smoothly the journey goes. Here are 5 fun ideas for car games for kids, along with quick reviews and quotes from real kids who’ve tried them out.
#1. Holiday Sticker Book (Usborne)
The Holiday Sticker Book (Usborne Sticker Books)
It includes tropical scenes such as a watery visit to Sea World, snorkelling on a coral reef, and a log cabin camp on safari.
“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 it comes with a handy travel bag for the car.
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-go fun!
#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 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
Beautiful Eric Carle Animal flash cards, featuring artist and author Eric Carle’s (of ‘Hungry Caterpillar’ fame) familiar animal illustrations, serve as a lovely introduction to the ABCs.
Printed on thick, sturdy board, they’re perfect for small hands to hold — and they make gorgeous room decorations too once the journey is over.
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, a magnetic game board, and rules.
Available from Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best car games for keeping kids entertained on a long journey?
Sticker books, travel versions of classic games (like Connect 4), building or puzzle games, flash cards, and simple magnetic games are all great choices. Look for options that are compact, mess-free, and don’t have lots of small loose pieces that can end up lost under the seats.
What age are these car games suitable for?
It varies by game. Sticker books and flash cards suit toddlers and younger children, while building games and Connect 4 style games work well from around age 5 or 6 upwards. Always check the age guidance on the packaging before you buy.
How can I stop car games from causing arguments between siblings?
Choose a mix of solo activities (sticker books, flash cards) and turn-based games (Connect 4, fishing games) so children have their own thing to do as well as something to share. Bringing more than one option also helps if interest in a game fades quickly.
Do I need a printable activity sheet for car journeys?
It’s not essential, but a simple printable can be a handy free extra for younger children. We’ve included a link to our free Car Puzzles Sheet above if you’d like to try one.
You Might Also Like
- 30 Fun Games for Car Journeys
- Rainy Day Activities to Keep Kids Busy Indoors
- Fun Family Road Trip Ideas
Do you have a great travel tip for keeping kids amused on long journeys? Share it with us in the comments below.
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