Fun and Games for Entertaining Kids on the Road

Updated 3 July 2024 - Originally published 7 November 2016

Holiday road trips with kids: the thought can send shivers down even the most seasoned parent’s spine. But fear not! With a little planning and some clever solutions, you can transform car journeys from battles to bonding experiences! Here are some ideas to keep the little ones happy (and hopefully quiet!) on the road:

Screen Time Saviours

• Portable DVD Players: These are classics for a reason! Keep your kids entertained with their favourite shows or movies. Top Tip: Fully charge the player beforehand, pack plenty of DVDs, and bring headphones to avoid distracting the driver and other passengers.

• Tablets: A Multitasking Marvel: Tablets offer endless entertainment options, from games and movies to audiobooks and ebooks. Bonus Tip: Invest in an iPad mount for the headrest, creating a comfy viewing experience for long stretches. Just make sure headphone cords are long enough for them to sit comfortably.

Beyond the Screens: Old-School Fun

• Activity Books: Unleash the Creativity: Colouring books, drawing pads, and puzzle books are timeless boredom-busters. Pack a variety to keep things interesting.

• Travel Games: Compact Classics for Big Fun: Who says games need screens? Travel-sized versions of classics like Battleship, Connect Four, and even Chess provide hours of entertainment without needing to charge anything.

• Word Games: Get Those Brains Buzzing!: When the batteries die or screen time needs a break, word games come to the rescue! From “I Spy” to word association, there are endless possibilities for fun, imaginative play.

Mixing it Up: Keeping Everyone Engaged

Long journeys can lead to screen fatigue. To avoid this, try alternating between screen-based activities and non-screen activities. Let your kids enjoy a movie or game for a while, then take a break for some colouring or a word game. This keeps things fresh and prevents boredom from setting in.

The Whole Family Gets Involved: Bonding Through Games

Car journeys can be a great opportunity for family bonding. Include some car games or activities that everyone can participate in together. Here are a few ideas:

• Singalongs: Blast the tunes and have a good old-fashioned singalong!
• Storytelling Games: Take turns adding sentences to a story, creating a hilarious and unpredictable adventure together.
• Travel Scavenger Hunts: Create a list of things for the kids to look out for on the journey, like specific landmarks, different coloured cars, or animals. The first one to spot everything wins!

Bonus Tip: Apps for the Journey

There are many apps designed specifically for road trips. These might offer interactive games, audio adventures, or educational quizzes that keep kids entertained and learning while on the go. Explore the app store and find some fun options that suit your children’s ages and interests.

Remember the Power (and the Snacks!)

• Chargers and Power Banks: Be Prepared for Anything: No matter how well you plan, unexpected delays happen. Pack a car charger or power bank to keep devices powered up and avoid meltdowns caused by dead batteries.

• Healthy Snack Stash: Fuel for Fun: Snacks are essential for long journeys, but don’t just rely on junk food. Pack healthy options like raisins, bananas, and carrot sticks that provide sustained energy and keep little tummies satisfied for longer.

By incorporating a mix of screen time and classic activities, along with a well-stocked snack bag and a fully charged arsenal of electronics, you can conquer those car journeys and turn them into fun family adventures!