A long road trip can be a great adventure—but after a few hours on the highway, boredom can creep in, especially if you're traveling with kids. Instead of relying solely on screens or frequent snack breaks, why not make the drive more enjoyable with some classic and creative road trip games?
Playing games in the car isn’t just a way to pass the time. It encourages interaction, sparks creativity, and helps the hours fly by without anyone constantly asking, “Are we there yet?” Here are 10 fun and easy road trip games the whole family can enjoy, with no special equipment required.
1. I Spy
This classic guessing game is ideal for younger passengers but fun for all ages. One person says, “I spy with my little eye something...” and gives a clue, such as a color or shape. Everyone else takes turns guessing what the object might be. The person who guesses correctly gets to be the next spy. It’s simple, engaging, and keeps everyone looking out the window.
2. 20 Questions
Perfect for older kids and adults, this game starts with one player thinking of a person, place, or thing. The rest of the group asks yes-or-no questions to figure out what it is. After 20 questions, everyone makes their final guesses. You’ll be surprised how specific the questions become as players get closer to the answer.
3. The License Plate Game
Turn your journey into a nationwide scavenger hunt by looking for license plates from all 50 states. Keep a written list or use a printable map to mark off each state as you spot it. For an added challenge, assign points to rare states like Hawaii or Alaska. It’s a fun way to keep eyes on the road and minds engaged.
4. Would You Rather
Take turns asking “Would you rather…” questions, such as “Would you rather swim with dolphins or climb a mountain?” or “Would you rather have to sing everything you say or only be able to whisper?” This game gets everyone talking and laughing, and it’s especially great for keeping conversation flowing among different age groups.
5. Name That Tune
Use the radio or a playlist and play the first few seconds of a song. The first person to correctly name the song and artist earns a point. This game is perfect for music-loving families and can span decades of genres, making it fun for both parents and kids. You can even create themed rounds, like '80s hits, Disney songs, or country classics.
6. The Alphabet Game
Choose a category—such as animals, foods, or places—and take turns naming items that begin with each letter of the alphabet in order. For example: A for alligator, B for bear, C for cat, and so on. You can play cooperatively or make it a competition to see who can make it to Z without getting stuck.
7. Road Trip Bingo
Before your trip, print out or make bingo cards featuring things you’re likely to see on the road: a red barn, a fast-food sign, a police car, a motorcycle, a billboard with a number on it, etc. As passengers spot each item, they mark it off their card. The first one to get five in a row wins. It’s a great way to stay observant and keep kids engaged.
8. Who Am I?
Similar to 20 Questions, this game involves one player choosing a famous person or character, and everyone else asking yes-or-no questions to guess their identity. The catch? The person answering questions can only respond with “yes,” “no,” or “I don’t know.” It’s fun, funny, and sometimes a bit harder than it sounds.
9. The Story Game
Start a collaborative story, one sentence at a time. The first person begins with a sentence like, “Once upon a time, a dog learned how to drive a car.” The next person continues the story, and so on. With each round, the story becomes more ridiculous and entertaining. It’s a fantastic game for sparking creativity and giggles in the backseat.
10. Count the…
Pick something to count along the drive—like yellow cars, cows, water towers, or even specific fast-food chains. Each person chooses their item at the start of the trip, and whoever spots the most by the end wins. It’s simple, surprisingly competitive, and keeps everyone watching the scenery.
Keep the Trip Fun With a Safe, Road-Ready Vehicle
While games can keep the family happy on the road, a safe and reliable vehicle is the foundation of a great road trip. At Ripley’s Total Car Care in Houston and Spring, TX, we can help ensure your car is road-ready before you head out. From fluid checks and tire inspections to brake and battery inspections, our expert technicians ensure your vehicle is prepared for the miles ahead.
Before your next road trip, schedule a service visit at Ripley’s Total Car Care. With your car in top shape and a few fun games in your pocket, your next family adventure can be smooth, safe, and full of great memories.