Traveling with kids can be a wonderful experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to keeping them entertained during long journeys. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, flying to a new destination, or taking a train ride, having a repertoire of engaging travel games for kids can make the journey more enjoyable for the whole family. In this blog, we’ll explore a variety of fun and educational games that are perfect for keeping kids entertained while on the move.
We go to the nearest Dollar store, Target, or Walmart before each trip to pick up at least 2-3 activities for our 4-year-old.
In this blog, we’ll explore a variety of fun and educational games that are perfect for keeping kids entertained while on the move.
Classic Car Games:
- I Spy: A classic game where one person spots something and gives a clue, and others guess what it is. This game is by far our favorite because not only is fun, but it also teaches new words to kids.
- The License Plate Game: Players memorize or write down the letters of the first license plate they spot and then come up with words using those letters. This is for a little older kids who can write.
- Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items for the kids to find along the journey, and the first one to spot all items wins.
- Alphabet Hunt: Have everyone look for each letter of the alphabet using road signs, license plates, and billboards that pass by.
- 20 Questions: One player thinks of a person, place, or thing, and the others take turns asking yes-or-no questions to guess what it is.
Portable Board Games:
- Uno: A classic card game that is compact and suitable for various ages. Very fun but teaches patience and strategy.
- Rat-A-Tat-Cat: A fun and simple card game for kids that is easy to pack and play on the go.
- Qwirkle Travel: A travel version of the popular Qwirkle game, which is a strategic tile-laying game that is easy to transport
- Bananagrams: A portable word game similar to Scrabble, but without the need for a game board, making it ideal for travel.
- SmartGames IQ Puzzler Pro: A compact and challenging puzzle game that is suitable for both kids and adults, making it a great travel companion.
Creative Drawing and Coloring:
- Sketchpad for Drawing: A large drawing pad or sketchbook with a new set of markers for each child can be a great way to encourage creativity during travel.
- DIY Stickers: Use big white labels to draw your own stickers inspired by what kids see during their travels.
- Wikki Stix: These are bendable sticks that can be used to create various shapes and are great for unleashing children’s creativity and imaginations.
- Printable Coloring and Drawing Activities: You can find professionally-designed printable travel games and coloring sheets on platforms like Etsy, which can provide hours of entertainment for kids during travel.
- Travel Journal for Kids: A vacation journal that pairs a page of writing prompts with a blank page for drawing can be a great way for kids to document their travels and engage in drawing activities.
- Speed Cube Set: A 3x3x3 cube puzzle can keep kids occupied for a long time as they use trial and error to attempt to solve this classic color-matching puzzle.
Brain Teasers and Puzzles:
- SmartGames Travel Games: These are compact and come in travel-friendly cases, offering a variety of brain teasers and puzzles for kids and adults alike.
- Magnetic Puzzles and Games: Magnetic puzzles, such as those from QUOKKA and V-Opitos, are designed for travel and can be a great option for keeping kids entertained on the go.
- IQ Fit and Melissa and Doug Flip to Win Travel Hangman: These are examples of compact puzzle games suitable for travel, offering a variety of challenges and entertainment for kids.
- Highlights Puzzle Books and Pierre The Maze Detective: These are portable puzzle books and adventure puzzle books that can provide engaging entertainment for kids during travel.
- Fat Brain Toys Brainteasers and Games: Fat Brain Toys offers a wide range of brainteasers, games, and puzzles suitable for kids, which can be great for keeping young minds engaged during travel.
Since we go to beaches a lot sand toys a must for our travel bags.
Now that you have some fantastic travel game ideas, where can you buy them? Here are a few stores where you can find a wide variety of travel games for kids:
1. Amazon
Amazon offers an extensive selection of travel games for kids. From classic favorites to new releases, you’ll find something for every age group and interest. Simply browse their website or use their search feature to find the perfect games for your upcoming journey.
2. Target
Target is another great option for purchasing travel games. They have a dedicated section for games and toys, making it easy to find what you need. Visit your local Target store or check out their website for a convenient shopping experience.
3. Walmart
Walmart is known for its wide range of products, and travel games are no exception. Whether you prefer to shop in-store or online, Walmart offers a variety of options to keep your kids entertained during travel.
4. Dollar Store
It really has some cool games and activities. It’s our favorite where you can buy multiple games. Cannot be bought online though.
With these fun and engaging travel games and the convenience of online and in-store shopping, you can ensure that your next adventure with the little ones is filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. Happy travels!