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Good preparation when it comes to entertainment and games on the road is the key to a relaxed and enjoyable trip for the whole party. Long car journeys or train rides don’t have to be an ordeal; they can actually become a valuable part of the holiday. Discover how, with a combination of classics, creative ideas and a touch of modern technology, you can make the journey just as much fun as the destination itself.
Classic games without any props
The simplest games are often the most effective. They require no preparation, cost nothing and encourage interaction and creativity within the travelling party. These classics are ideal to start the journey with and to get everyone actively involved, without relying on batteries or an internet connection.
I spy with my little eye
This game remains a favourite for all ages. One person thinks of an object that is visible to everyone and says: I spy with my little eye, and it is the colour… The others take turns guessing what it might be. The game is easy to adapt to the age of the children by choosing objects inside or outside the car. For older players you can make it more difficult by giving more abstract descriptions or focusing on details.
The alphabet game
The alphabet game is an excellent way to train memory and spark creativity. Choose a category, such as animals, countries, cities or foods. The first player says a word that starts with the letter ‘A’, the next player a word with a ‘B’, and so on. Anyone who can’t think of a word within an agreed time is out. This game can be varied endlessly with new categories, making it a fresh challenge every time.
I’m going on a trip and I’m taking…
A classic that really puts memory to the test. The first player starts with the sentence: I’m going on a trip and I’m taking… and names an item. The next player repeats the sentence and the item, and adds one of their own. The chain of items gets longer and longer. A mistake in the order means you’re out, as does forgetting an item. This often leads to hilarious combinations and keeps everyone on their toes.
A monotonous landscape is transformed into a living playground.
Active observation games for the journey
Games that require you to really look outside turn the journey itself into a voyage of discovery. They ensure that passengers consciously observe their surroundings. A monotonous landscape is transformed into a living playground. In addition, these games help the driver stay alert, because everyone is joining in the search.
Car bingo
Car bingo is a perfect way to keep children busy for hours. Before you leave, make bingo cards with pictures or words of things you might spot along the way: a red lorry, a cow in a field, a windmill, a bridge or a specific road sign. Whoever completes a line first shouts Bingo! You can draw the cards yourself or search online for ready-made versions. Print versions that match the route you’re driving.
Number plate spotting
The number plate game is simple and remains engaging, especially when you’re travelling through different counties or countries. The aim is to spot as many different plates as possible. Turn it into a competition: see who can find the most unique number plates, or who is first to see a plate from a certain region. This game encourages observation and also teaches children something about geography.
Creativity and calm in the back seat
Alongside active games, moments of rest are just as important. Especially on a long journey it’s nice to have activities that bring relaxation and calm. This gives everyone the chance to recharge.
Audiobooks and podcasts
Audiobooks are a great way to entertain the whole family. Choose a story that appeals to everyone and let yourselves be carried off to another world. For older children and adults there are countless interesting podcasts on a wide range of topics. With headphones, everyone can also listen to their own favourite story or podcast, which brings welcome peace and quiet in the car.
Music and playlists
Before you set off, put together a playlist with the favourite songs of all travel companions. Variety is key here. Let everyone take turns controlling the music. You can also set a rule: everyone is allowed to choose a set number of songs. Singing along together or doing a quiz about the artist of a song can boost the atmosphere even more.
Colouring and sticker books
For the youngest travellers, colouring, sticker and activity books remain an excellent pastime. They require concentration and are often calming. Make sure you bring a firm surface, such as a clipboard or a special travel tray, so that children can colour comfortably in the back seat.
Using digital tools wisely
Although travelling screen-free has its advantages, tablets and smartphones can be a real lifesaver at difficult moments. The trick is to use them consciously and with a plan.
A tablet with a good pair of headphones can work wonders. Make sure you download enough films, series or games before you leave, so you’re not dependent on a patchy internet connection on the road. Make clear agreements about screen time to avoid arguments. For example, use the tablet as a reward after a few hours of screen-free entertainment, or for the last, often trickiest, stretch of the journey.
A new little toy, an unfamiliar activity book or a special snack can help at a tricky moment.
Tips for smooth implementation
A good travel experience stands or falls with variety and preparation. Keep the mood positive with these practical tips:
- Alternate active games with quiet activities to prevent overstimulation.
- Only involve the driver in games that don’t distract from the road, such as audiobooks or singing along to music.
- Keep a small bag of surprises on standby. A new little toy, an unfamiliar activity book or a special snack can help at a tricky moment.
- Make sure everything is within easy reach. An organiser on the back of the front seat prevents toys from ending up everywhere and keeps everything neatly in place.
On the Traveler Tips website you’ll find plenty more practical information for your car holiday, road trip or train journey. Discover our detailed route planners, packing lists and tips for the most beautiful destinations to help you plan your next trip even better.
Frequently asked questions
For long journeys without an internet connection, classic road games such as I spy with my little eye , Twenty questions and the ABC game are ideal, because they require no props and stimulate creativity and memory. Games that involve observing the surroundings, such as the ABC road sign game or the number plate game , also keep everyone alert and engaged. For breaks or in motorhomes, compact card and board games such as Connect Four or trivia games are suitable. These options provide entertainment for all ages and contribute to a relaxed travel experience without distractions for the driver.
Make travel time fun with classic road games such as I spy or Twenty questions , which stimulate creativity and observation without screens. Play observation games like the ABC road sign game or number plate word scrabble to keep everyone alert and engaged with their surroundings. For longer breaks, compact board games such as a mini Connect Four are ideal. These kinds of games strengthen memory and family bonds. Always choose games that do not distract the driver, for everyone’s safety.
For adults who want to make their travel experience more interactive, the mobile app Trivia Crack is one option. This app offers simple quizzes that can also be played on TV or iPad via Netflix Trivia Quest. Although most of the games mentioned do not require gadgets, this app can provide entertainment, especially during flights or as a back-up.
Creative games that take up little space and are easy to bring along include classic road games such as I spy with my little eye , Twenty questions , hangman (with pen and paper), the ABC game and I packed my suitcase . There are also observation games such as the ABC road sign game and the number plate game , which involve the surroundings. Compact card and board games such as a mini version of Connect Four are also suitable, as are app-based quizzes like Trivia Crack. These games encourage creativity, memory and observation without distracting the driver.
To get the most out of your entertainment on the road, it’s advisable to choose simple games that require no props and are safe for the driver, such as I spy or Twenty questions. Games that involve observing the surroundings, such as the ABC road sign game or the number plate game, keep everyone alert. For breaks or in motorhomes, compact card and board games are suitable, as well as digital apps such as Trivia Crack. Always make sure the games you choose do not distract the driver and are appropriate for the region in which you’re travelling.
