Got a long car journey coming up with the kids? Whether it’s a trip to the grandparents or the start of a family holiday, keeping little ones entertained in the back seat can make or break the drive. Here are 5 fun ideas for car games for kids — simple, tried-and-tested activities and games that will help keep them occupied on the way.
#1. Holiday Sticker Book (Usborne)
The Holiday Sticker Book (Usborne Sticker Books)
It includes tropical scenes like a watery visit to Sea World, snorkelling on a coral reef, a safari trip 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 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 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 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, featuring artist and author Eric Carle’s (of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ fame) familiar animal illustrations, make a lovely introduction to the ABCs on a long drive.
Printed on thick, sturdy board, they’re perfect for small hands to hold — and they make gorgeous room decorations afterwards 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 coloured 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 good car games for young kids?
Simple, hands-on activities work best for younger children — sticker books, flash cards, and magnetic travel games are all great choices because pieces stay put even when the car is moving and there’s nothing small to lose on the floor.
What car games work well for older kids?
Older children tend to enjoy games with a bit more challenge, like travel versions of classic strategy games (such as Connect 4) or building and puzzle games that get them thinking.
How do I stop small game pieces getting lost in the car?
Look for travel versions of games that come with their own storage case or magnetic pieces, so everything clips together and stays in one place between uses.
Are these games suitable for plane journeys too?
Yes — most of the ideas here, especially the sticker books, flash cards and compact travel games, work just as well for flights as they do for car trips.
Related Articles
If you found these ideas useful, you might also like:
- 30 Fun Games for Car Journeys
- Rainy Day Activities for Kids
- Family Travel Tips for Long Journeys
Do you have a great travel tip for keeping kids amused on long journeys? Share it with us in the comments below.
Save These Ideas for Your Next Trip
Bookmark this page or save it to your phone before you set off, so you’ve got these car game ideas handy the next time you’re packing for a journey.
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