Setting out on a family adventure can be an incredible way to create lasting memories, but we all know how challenging it can be to keep everyone amused during lengthy car rides, flights, or wilderness adventures! This is where playing
Word game enthusiasts will love travel-sized Scrabble! With a smaller board and individual tile holders that keep the letter tiles stay where you put them, it’s easy to set up and play on an airplane tray table, hotel room desk, or picnic table.
There’s actually many versions for you to choose from like the more classic travel edition, the junior Scrabble version, Scrabble scramble to go, Scrabble road trip games, Scrabble tile lock, and more!
Remember: This game not only provides entertainment, but also helps improve vocabulary and spelling skills.
Monopoly Deal
Guess in 10 is an extremely popular skill-based guessing card game that requires players to ask questions to determine the correct answer- similar to Guess Who. There are tons of different themes to choose from like Animals, Dinosaurs, Sports, Countries, Professions, etc. So you can pick what your kids like the most, or collect them all!
There’s the original format that is recommended for ages 6 and up, but they also have junior versions for ages 3-6.
Go Fish
Spot It! is a fast-paced exciting card game that challenges players to find matching symbols on different cards as quickly as possible. With multiple game modes and variations, Spot It! keeps the whole family entertained and on their toes. Its compact size and quick playtime make it perfect for playing during short breaks in your travel itinerary or while waiting for a meal at a busy restaurant.
Like many of the games we’ve suggested already, Spot It! has multiple versions to pick from. The classic is wonderful and recommended for ages 6+, but there’s junior versions for children 4+, “superpacks” for more options and longer game time, and even themed editions like this fun Harry Potter version!
Puzzle and Strategy Games
Games on the Go
A compact, dry-erase search-and-find game can keep younger kids entertained on the go again and again. Skillmatics makes over a dozen different “write and wipe” activity mats for children 3-6 that are not just perfect for keeping them busy, but educational too.
Not only do they have the variety of search and find mats, but you can also get ones that focus on math, writing, interactive stories and more.
Digital Games for Family Fun
Offline mobile games
In today’s digital age, there are countless mobile games that can be played offline, making them good options for travel. Choose age-appropriate puzzle games, word games, or strategy games to keep the family entertained during long flights or hotel stays.
Some popular offline mobile games include Fruit Ninja, Minecraft Pocket Edition, Monument Valley, Cut the Rope, and Candy Crush.
Interactive trivia apps
Interactive trivia apps are a fun way to engage your family in a little friendly competition. Many trivia apps offer a variety of categories and difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone.
Some popular trivia apps include Trivia Crack, QuizLand, and Jeopardy!. Just make sure to download the app and any necessary content for offline gaming before your trip.
Word and number games
Word and number games are not only entertaining but also educational, helping kids and adults alike to improve their vocabulary, spelling, and math skills. Some popular digital word and number games include Words With Friends 2 (which can be played offline against the computer), Word Search, and Threes!.
These games can be played on smartphones or tablets, making them ideal for travel.
DIY Travel Game Ideas
Storytelling games
Unleash your family’s creativity with storytelling games. One person starts a story with a sentence or two, and then each person takes turns adding to the story. This can be as silly or serious as you like, and it’s an excellent way to pass the time while also encouraging imagination and bonding. You can even set a theme or include specific words to make it more challenging.
Scavenger hunts
Scavenger hunts are a versatile and engaging activity for families on the go. Create a list of items or sights to find at your destination or during your journey, such as specific landmarks, animals, or types of vehicles. You can even make it more challenging by adding riddles or clues to solve. Scavenger hunts encourage exploration, teamwork, and a sense of adventure, making them an excellent addition to any family trip.
We included camping-themed scavenger hunts divided by age group in our free printable activity sheets here:
Packing Tips for Travel Games
Organizing game pieces
To keep your travel games organized and prevent lost pieces, use small ziplock bags or
