Device-free road trip essentials for families

Thanksgiving is right around the corner and typically people hit the road for the holiday. This year being no exception as families may not be comfortable flying and many more will be on the road. We were eager to find some ways to occupy our kids in the car {as we plan our longest road trip yet} that invites them to put down a device for part of the trip.

Travel games:
Scavenger hunt
License plate BINGO
Magnetic puzzles
Guess Who card game
Road trip BINGO
Guess in 10
STEM cube
20 Q electronic game
Fidgets
Sensory toys

Crafts:
Dry erase travel board
Wiki sticks
Vacation activity kit
No-mess glitter dot
Travel pad with a variety of games
Mess-free coloring
Travel journal

Listen to family-friendly Podcasts and books on tape through Audible. I like to pop in my AirPods and listen to a book on tape on car rides– a bit of silence! Also, subscribe to Pinna for children’s audiobooks, music, podcasts and more!

No need for anything–play old school games: I-Spy, 20 questions, Play the license plate game aloud, “I’m going on a trip/picnic and bringing…”, The alphabet game, Who am I? & Round-robin story telling are a few. Just google the names of them to get a refresher on the rules.

Rest stop games: Bring a ball to kick around, throw a jump rope in the car, play Simon Says and try to challenge Simon to be active.

Create a playlist and have a sing-along. You can print some lyrics for kids who can read and they can sing the words.

Give your kids a camera to document their trip. Be sure to stock up on film. This also comes with a photo album they can just put the pictures right into and keep organized on the trip.

Helpful to have:
Car seat lap activity tray
Fill up this container with snacks
Kids travel pillow
Kids headphones that connect to each other
Travel Jane disposable urinal
Portable potty
Wet wipes
Organizer, Cooler & Tray in 1
UV Window shade

Related posts:
8 games to play in the pool + water play must haves!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that should you click any of the links and make a purchase I may get a small commission at absolutely no cost to you. 

Allison

Share
Published by
Allison

Recent Posts

Hidden Beach Gems: Less Crowded Family Beach Destinations

Escape the crowds and create unforgettable family memories at these spectacular, lesser-known beach destinations! While…

6 days ago

♫ Creative Kids Home for the Summer? Try Our Fun Music Lessons!

Looking for a Fun Activity for Your Kids This Summer? From virtual singing classes to…

2 weeks ago

Beyond Disney: Incredible Family Adventures That Will Deliver The Same Thrills

As we wrap up planning our summer getaways, it’s already time to start thinking about…

2 weeks ago

Is Your DIY Family Vacation Really Saving You Money?

As a family travel advisor, I’ve watched plenty of parents start out super excited to…

4 weeks ago

 Keep Kids Sharp with Music Lessons this Summer ♫

Are your children spending too much time on their devices? It's a tough new frontier…

1 month ago

Passport to Answers: How Do You Make Sure the Trip Has Something for Both Adults and Kids?

Let’s be honest: planning a trip that keeps both adults and kids happy can feel…

1 month ago