We may earn commissions on qualifying purchases.
Buysmart Logo

Best Travel Games For Kids 2024

April 24, 2024

Travelling with kids can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Keeping them entertained and engaged during the journey is key to enjoying a stress-free trip. That's where the right travel games come in - they can transform a long car ride or flight into a fun, bonding adventure for the whole family.

In 2024, the best travel games for kids will not only captivate their attention, but also encourage learning, creativity, and quality time together. From classic car trip games to innovative digital experiences, this year's top picks will cater to a wide range of ages and interests. Whether you're planning a road trip, a flight, or a train ride, these travel-friendly diversions are sure to make the journey fly by.

As you navigate the world of travel games, look for options that strike the right balance between interactive fun, portability, and age-appropriateness. Prioritize games that are easy to learn, durable enough for travel, and designed to spark imagination and togetherness. With the right mix of elements, you can transform even the most mundane transit time into a memorable experience for your little explorers.


Magnetic Travel Chess Set: Best Portable Chess Set for Travelers

Alt text

Magnetic Travel Chess Set with Folding Chess Board Educational Toys for ... -- $13.85(Amazon)

Chess Armory Magnetic 9.5 Inches Travel Chess Set - Folding Board with S... -- $14.99(Amazon)

Multipurpose Go Multipurpose Magnetic Travel Chess Set 12.6" with Foldin... -- $14.98(eBay)

Mini Chess Set - Vikutu 5.11 Inch Small Portable Travel Chess Set - Magn... -- $8.99(Amazon)

Why We Picked It

The Magnetic Travel Chess Set is an excellent choice for chess enthusiasts and novices alike who are always on the move. Its compact design, educational value, and the engaging nature of the game make it a perfect travel companion that encourages strategic thinking and provides entertainment.

Who It's For

This chess set is ideal for kids and adults who enjoy brain games and are looking for a portable option to take on trips, to school, or to play during commutes. It's also great for those who appreciate a game that can be paused and easily stored. However, it may not be suitable for very young children due to the small pieces that could pose a choking hazard.

PROSCONS
✅ High-quality, durable HIPS plastic construction with a fine texture for a deluxe feel❌ Small pieces may be easily lost or pose a choking hazard for young children
✅ Light magnetism keeps pieces stable during play without making them difficult to move❌ Magnetism might not be strong enough to hold pieces in place during very turbulent travel
✅ Portable size with a foldable design for easy storage and an included bundle pocket for piece storage❌ The compact size may be challenging for those who prefer a larger board for extended play

Spot It! On The Road: Best Travel-Friendly Observation Game

Alt text

Blue Orange Spot it! on the Road -- $13.87(Fantastic Games)

Spot It! Animals Junior Card Game (Eco-Blister)| Matching Game | Fun Kid... -- $9.49(Amazon)

Spot It! Classic Card Game -- $12.65(Amazon)

Briarpatch | I Spy Travel Card Game, Ages 4+ -- $7.99(Amazon)

Spot It! Classic (Eco Blister) -- $7.99(Target)

Spot It! Classic - Award-Winning Card Game with Endless Playability, Fas... -- $12.65(Amazon)

Why We Picked It

Spot It! On The Road is selected for its engaging gameplay that is both fast-paced and easy to learn, making it an ideal choice for families and friends seeking quick entertainment. Its focus on observation skills adds an educational twist, and the game's portability ensures fun can be had anywhere, from road trips to family game nights.

Who It's For

This game is perfect for families with children, travelers looking for a compact game to take on the road, or anyone who enjoys quick and interactive card games that challenge their speed and attention to detail. It's suitable for players aged 4 and up, making it a versatile option for a wide range of ages.

PROSCONS
✅ Fast-paced and engaging gameplay❌ Risk of cards getting bent or lost during travel
✅ Enhances observation and reflex skills❌ May not be as challenging for older players
✅ Portable and travel-friendly with a handy tin❌ Limited to 2-5 players which may not suit larger groups

Travel Bingo: Engaging Road Trip Entertainment

Alt text

eeBoo Game Travel Bingo -- $12.99(Amazon)

Regal Games - Original Travel Bingo & Scavenger Hunt Game Bundle - Bingo... -- $9.99(Amazon)

Car Bingo - Travel Bingo - Road Trip Bingo - Road Trip Must-Haves and Ac... -- $9.99(Amazon)

Why We Picked It

Travel Bingo is a fantastic game for families and groups looking to add a fun, interactive element to their road trips. It turns the journey into an engaging activity, encouraging players, especially kids, to observe and interact with their surroundings instead of being absorbed in electronic devices. The game is designed to be easy to store and use in a car, making it a convenient choice for travel entertainment.

Who It's For

This game is best suited for families or groups with children aged 5 years and up. It's ideal for those who want to keep multiple passengers entertained on a road trip, especially in areas with a variety of sights. It may not be as suitable for solo travelers or for travel in more monotonous environments where the sights are less varied.

PROSCONS
✅ Encourages kids to observe and interact with their environment❌ May not hold the attention of solo travelers
✅ Conveniently sized for travel, easy to store in a glove compartment❌ Less engaging in areas with fewer sights to spot
✅ Includes everything needed to play: bingo sheets, pencils, and simple rules❌ Limited replay value in the same travel routes

Uno: Classic Family Card Game for All Ages

Alt text

UNO Card Game for Family Night, Travel Game & Gift for Kids in a Collect... -- $11(Amazon)

Mattel UNO Card Game -- $4.99(Target)

Uno Card Game - Minimalista -- $5(Five Below)

Uno Original and Uno Flip Card Games, Combo Pack of 2 -- $9.99(Amazon)

Why We Picked It

UNO is a timeless card game that combines simplicity, strategic thinking, and fun for all ages. It's a game that's easy to learn but can provide endless entertainment, making it a perfect choice for family game nights, travel, and gatherings. The inclusion of a collectible storage tin in some versions enhances its portability and ensures the cards are protected, addressing concerns about cards being easily misplaced or damaged. Additionally, the game has been made colorblind accessible, ensuring everyone can join in the fun without barriers.

Who It's For

UNO is ideal for families, friends, and travelers looking for a compact, engaging, and universally loved game. It's suitable for players aged 7 and up, making it a great option for both kids and adults. The game's simplicity and quick pace make it perfect for parties, casual get-togethers, or as a travel companion. It's also a thoughtful gift for anyone who enjoys card games or is looking for a fun way to spend time with loved ones.

PROSCONS
✅ Easy to learn and universally loved, making it perfect for all ages and occasions.❌ Cards can be easily misplaced or damaged if not stored properly.
✅ Special action cards add a strategic element, keeping the game exciting and unpredictable.❌ May become repetitive after many rounds.
✅ Comes in a collectible storage tin for easy travel and protection, with some versions being colorblind accessible.❌ Competitive nature might not suit all players.

Mad Libs on the Road: Best Interactive Language Game for Travel

Alt text

Mad Libs on the Road: World's Greatest Word Game [Book] -- $5.99(Penguin Random House)

Mad Libs on the Road: World's Greatest Word Game -- $5.88(Amazon)

Vintage Mad Libs -camp Daze + Mad Libs On The Road. In Packaging -- $16.88(eBay - atsirk2009)

Why We Picked It

Mad Libs on the Road is selected for its ability to engage players in a creative and educational manner. It's not just a game but a tool that encourages the use of imagination and language skills, making it an ideal activity for children and families during travel or at home. The interactive nature of filling in the blanks promotes learning in a playful context, which can be both entertaining and beneficial for language development.

Who It's For

This game is perfect for children aged 7 to 11 years, as well as for parents and educators looking for a fun way to enhance language arts practice. It's also great for groups of friends or family members who enjoy collaborative and humorous activities. However, it might not be the best fit for very young children who are not yet reading and writing proficiently.

PROSCONS
✅ Encourages creativity and language development❌ Requires a pen or pencil, which can be misplaced
✅ Perfect for travel and family road trips❌ Potential for messes if writing utensils are mishandled
✅ Provides 21 unique and humorous stories for endless fun❌ May not be as engaging for children outside the recommended age range

Magnetic Tangram Puzzle: Educational and Portable Brain Teaser

Alt text

Tangram Game Travel Games 176 Magnetic Puzzle -- $24.6(eBay)

Travel Tangram Puzzle - Magnetic Pattern Block Book Road Trip Game Jigsa... -- $13.99(Amazon)

Travel Tangram Puzzle Magnetic Puzzle Book Game Road Trip Game Jigsaw Sh... -- $10.59(Amazon)

Why We Picked It

The Magnetic Tangram Puzzle stands out for its ability to blend entertainment with educational benefits, making it a versatile toy for both kids and adults. Its magnetic design minimizes mess and enhances portability, making it an ideal travel companion. With a wide range of patterns that cater to various difficulty levels, it encourages problem-solving, creativity, and geometric understanding in a fun and engaging way.

Who It's For

This puzzle is perfect for individuals who enjoy brain teasers, parents looking for educational toys for their children, and teachers seeking interactive teaching tools. It's especially suited for those above 3 years old, offering a progressive challenge that can adapt to the player's growing skills. However, due to small pieces, it might not be suitable for very young children without supervision.

PROSCONS
✅ Encourages problem-solving and creativity❌ Magnetic pieces may lose magnetism over time
✅ Magnetic pieces for tidy play and easy travel❌ Small pieces may not be suitable for younger children
✅ Includes 360 to 368 patterns for varied challenges❌ May require supervision to ensure safe play for toddlers

Rory's Story Cubes: Best Creative Storytelling Game

Alt text

Rory's Story Cubes (Eco-Blister) | Storytelling Game for Kids and Adults... -- $13.99(Amazon)

Rory's Story Cubes Voyages (Box) - Embark on Epic Adventures! Creative S... -- $12.99(Amazon)

Why We Picked It

Rory's Story Cubes are a fantastic tool for sparking creativity and imagination in both kids and adults. With a simple roll of the dice, players can create a wide array of stories using the images on the cubes. This game is not only fun but also educational, enhancing language skills and narrative development. The compact design makes it an excellent choice for entertainment on the go, and the eco-friendly packaging aligns with sustainable values.

Who It's For

This game is best suited for individuals or groups who enjoy creative storytelling and imaginative play. It's ideal for families, educators, and anyone looking to engage in a fun, educational activity that fosters creativity. While it's designed for ages 6 and up, it may not capture the attention of children who prefer more structured or competitive games.

PROSCONS
✅ Stimulates imagination and storytelling skills❌ Risk of losing small dice
✅ Eco-friendly and travel-friendly design❌ May not engage all children
✅ Educational benefits and intergenerational play❌ Limited structured gameplay for those who prefer more rules

BrainBox: All Around the World: Engaging Educational Geography Game

Alt text

All Around The World - Brainbox -- $9.99(eBay - stevenlibertybell)

Brainbox - All Around The World -- $36.81(Bonanza - momto3blueeyedboys booth)

BrainBox: All Around The World Game - New Toys & Collectibles -- $15(Mercari)

Why We Picked It

BrainBox: All Around the World is an engaging and educational game that combines fun with learning, making it an excellent tool for teaching geography and memory skills. Its interactive gameplay encourages players to explore and remember facts about different countries, landmarks, and cultures, providing a rich educational experience. The game's design to be both informative and entertaining ensures that players of all ages can enjoy learning about the world in a dynamic and memorable way.

Who It's For

This game is perfect for families with children, educators looking for classroom resources, or anyone who loves trivia and learning about different cultures and places. It's especially suited for those who appreciate games that are not only fun but also offer a learning component, making it a great choice for engaging young minds in educational activities outside of traditional learning environments.

PROSCONS
✅ Teaches geography and memory skills in an entertaining way❌ The game includes many pieces, which might be difficult to manage or keep track of, especially when traveling or playing on the go
✅ Suitable for a wide range of ages, making it great for family game nights❌ May require additional storage solutions for easy transport
✅ Encourages learning about different cultures and landmarks around the world❌ Could be overwhelming for younger players without guidance due to the number of components

Travel Scavenger Hunt for Kids: Engaging Road Trip Entertainment for Kids

Alt text

New York City Travel Scavenger Hunt | Kids & Adult Games | Travel Games ... -- $2.55(Etsy - MindfulGoodsStore)

Briarpatch Travel Scavenger Hunt Card Game for Kids, Activities for Fami... -- $6.75(Amazon)

Skillmatics Card Game - Found It Travel, Scavenger Hunt for Kids, Girls,... -- $14.97(Amazon)

Elfew Road Rally Travel Scavenger Hunt Card Game for Kids Ages 4 and Up,... -- $4.99(Amazon)

Road Rally Travel Scavenger Hunt Card Game for Kids Ages 4 and Up,Find O... -- $4.99(Amazon)

Why We Picked It

The Travel Scavenger Hunt for Kids is an engaging and interactive game designed to keep children entertained during long road trips. By turning the journey into a fun scavenger hunt, it encourages kids to observe their surroundings and engage with their travel environment in a playful way. The game includes a variety of cards that prompt players to find objects, listen for sounds, feel for textures, and even sniff for scents, making it a comprehensive sensory experience. Its easy-to-learn nature and portability make it an excellent choice for family vacations, ensuring that even the most restless travelers are entertained.

Who It's For

This game is perfect for families with children aged 6 and up who are looking for a fun, interactive way to keep multiple kids engaged during road trips. It's ideal for parents seeking to provide their children with an entertaining and educational activity that encourages observation and sensory exploration. However, it may not be the best fit for very young children under the age of 6 or for those looking for a high-tech gaming experience.

PROSCONS
✅ Encourages kids to observe and interact with their surroundings❌ Cards may offer limited variety for frequent players
✅ Includes a variety of sensory cards for a comprehensive play experience❌ Not reusable if marked up during play
✅ Portable and easy to learn, making it perfect for travel❌ May not engage very young children under the age of 6

Bananagrams: Educational and Portable Word Game

Alt text

Bananagrams Party Edition Game -- $11.99(Miniature Market)

Double Bananagrams Word Game - For Up To 16 Players -- $20.99(Amazon)

Bananagrams Word Game -- $13.99(Amazon)

Big Letter BANANAGRAMS: Family Word Game With Easy To See And Handle Let... -- $19.49(Amazon)

Bananagrams Double Game -- $24.99(Bananagrams)

Bananagrams - Wildtiles -- $19.98(Wayfair)

Why We Picked It

Bananagrams is a highly engaging and educational game that combines fun with learning, making it an excellent choice for both children and adults. Its portability and the unique banana-shaped case make it an ideal travel companion, ensuring entertainment on the go. The game's focus on spelling and word formation helps improve vocabulary and cognitive skills, making it not just a game but a learning tool as well.

Who It's For

Bananagrams is perfect for families, friends, and educators looking for a fun and educational activity. It's suitable for players aged 7 and up, making it a great choice for game nights, classroom activities, or as a travel game. However, due to small parts, it's not recommended for children under 3 years of age.

PROSCONS
✅ Educational benefits including spelling and vocabulary enhancement❌ Small pieces could be easily lost
✅ Portable and travel-friendly with a unique banana-shaped case❌ May require a flat surface for optimal play
✅ Suitable for a wide range of ages and group sizes, from 1-16 players❌ Not suitable for children under 3 years due to choking hazard

Thanks for checking out the best travel games for kids! If you have any more questions or need further recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy travels and happy gaming!

Recommendation Questions

I Want Travel Games for Kids that Encourage Bonding and Family Fun in 2024

I Need Travel Games for Kids that Promote Creativity and Learning in 2024

I Want Innovative and Tech-savvy Travel Games for Kids in 2024

More Similar Content