Long car journeys with kids can feel a lot longer than they need to, especially once “are we there yet?” starts up somewhere around junction three. A few well-chosen distractions can make all the difference. Here are 5 fun ideas for car games for kids that are easy to pack, easy to play in a car seat, and good for keeping little hands and minds busy on the way.
#1. Holiday Sticker Book (Usborne)
A holiday-themed sticker book is a brilliant one for car (or plane) journeys, packed with different summer scenes and hundreds of stickers to keep little fingers busy for ages.
Think tropical scenes like a watery visit to Sea World, snorkelling on a coral reef, an African safari and a log cabin camp — plenty of variety to hold interest over a long trip.
“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
It’s great for sharpening visual perception and spatial thinking, and it comes with a handy travel bag that keeps all the pieces together — no rummaging under car seats for stray blocks.
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 travel fun!
#3. Hasbro Travel Connect 4
Hasbro Travel Connect 4
First to get four in a row — horizontally, vertically or diagonally — wins. The counters store neatly inside the self-contained unit, so there’s nothing to lose down the side 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 animal flash cards, featuring artist and author Eric Carle’s familiar illustrations (of Hungry Caterpillar fame), make a lovely introduction to letters and animals for younger passengers.
Printed on thick, sturdy board, they’re perfect for small hands to hold — and they double up nicely 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 poles to search for your coloured fish — simple to learn and easy to play on a tray table or lap.
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.
FAQs: Car Games for Kids
What age are these car games suitable for?
Most of the ideas here work from around age 4 up, though flash cards and sticker books can suit younger toddlers too. Always check the recommended age on the box before buying.
How many games should I bring on a long journey?
A small mix is usually best — one quiet activity (like stickers or flash cards), one game that needs two players, and one that a child can enjoy solo. That way there’s something for every stretch of the journey.
What if my child gets travel sick with books or games?
Some children find close-up activities uncomfortable on winding roads. If that’s a worry for your family, it’s worth chatting to your GP or pharmacist for advice suited to your child.
Do these games need batteries or extra equipment?
No — all five ideas above are screen-free and don’t need batteries, which makes them handy for keeping in the car permanently.
Related Articles
- 30 Fun Games for Car Journeys
- Rainy Day Activities for Kids
- Easy Travel Games for Toddlers
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Loved these car game ideas? Save this page for your next trip, or browse our full collection of rainy day and travel activities for more ways to keep the kids entertained wherever you’re headed.
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