As parents, we all know the dread of a long car ride with children. How many times have you barely made it to the end of your own street and they’re already asking, “How much longer?” It makes for a very long few hours—and it can be tempting to just hand them a device for some peace and quiet.
But hours and hours staring at a screen disconnects children from what’s happening around them. There are studies of children up to the age of seven that show an association between too much screen time and behavioural problems. After a long period with a screen, children can be irritable and argumentative—and even the simple task of taking the device away can cause huge meltdowns.
Being cooped up in a car isn’t fun for anyone, but with a little planning and creativity (and maybe a few snacks), you can turn any road trip into a fun family adventure. Here’s how to keep the kids entertained and parents sane—no screens required.
1. Play Road Trip Games
Turn the car into a game zone with these fun challenges:
- Road trip bingo – Make a list of things to spot outside (a red car, a cow, a funny license plate). First to check off 10 wins!
- 20 Questions – One person thinks of a person, place, or thing. Everyone else asks yes-or-no questions to guess what it is.
- The Alphabet Game – Find words on signs that start with each letter of the alphabet from A to Z.
- Eye Spy – A classic! For little ones who can’t spell yet, try using colours instead of letters.
2. Get Creative with Storytelling
- Pass-the-story – One person starts with a sentence and everyone adds on.
- Would You Rather? – “Would you rather ride a giant snail or a tiny dragon?” Go wild!
- Mad Libs Madness – Fill in the blanks with silly words for hilarious results.
3. Take Fun Pit Stops
Plan breaks at cool roadside attractions, interesting cafés, or scenic spots. Let the kids stretch, run, and explore—fresh air helps everyone reset.
4. Make Snack Time an Adventure
Pack a mix of sweet, salty, and healthy snacks with a fun twist:
- Mystery Snack Bag – Kids close their eyes and guess what they’re eating.
- Snack Challenge – Who can make the funniest face out of their food before eating it?
5. Learn Something From a Podcast
There are loads of family-friendly, educational podcasts to enjoy together. Try:
- But Why?
- Smash Boom Best
- Wow in the World
- Family Road Trip Trivia
6. Pack a Goodie Bag
Fill a bag with wrapped surprises like stickers, little toys, colouring pens, or new books. When boredom hits, let each child pick one every 30–60 minutes.
7. Create a Road Trip Soundtrack
Let everyone pick their favourite songs for a family playlist. Sing along, invent dance moves, or rotate DJs. Each person gets one veto if they don’t like a song.
8. Create Memories with Cameras
Give each child a disposable camera to snap fun moments on the road. Later, they can use the photos to make a journal of the trip.
9. Knock Knock Jokes
Start a challenge: Who can tell the best knock knock joke? The first one to get a belly laugh from the whole car wins!
Bonus Tip: Get a Travel Tray
Portable travel trays offer a flat surface for crafts, colouring, or meals—and the raised edges prevent things from rolling off. Some even come with side pockets for pens and toys.
Road Trip Challenge:
Dare your family (including parents!) to go screen-free for as long as possible. Whoever lasts the longest wins a prize!
