7 Fun Ways to Keep Kids Entertained During Long Car Rides

Long car rides with kids can be challenging, but with the right activities and gear, you can turn hours on the road into a fun family adventure. Whether you're heading to grandma's house or embarking on a cross-country journey, here are seven creative ways to keep your little ones entertained and happy.

1. Pack a Surprise Activity Bag

Fill a bag with small toys, puzzles, coloring books, and stickers. To keep the excitement going, reveal a new item every hour. This element of surprise keeps kids engaged and gives them something to look forward to during the trip.

Consider including a mix of sensory toys, travel-size board games, and DIY craft kits. For older kids, activity books with word searches or brain teasers can be a hit. If your child loves storytelling, pack a blank notebook and encourage them to write or draw a road trip journal. You can also add simple card games that the whole family can enjoy together.

Check out some great pre-made kits from our friends over at Lovevery!

2. Audiobooks and Podcasts

Audiobooks and kid-friendly podcasts are a lifesaver for long car rides. Choose age-appropriate stories or educational podcasts to capture their imagination while giving everyone a break from screens.

Bonus tip: Let your child pick the next story to keep them involved.

From classic fairy tales to science adventures, there are endless options. Platforms like Audible, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts offer a range of family-friendly content. Consider downloading a few episodes or audiobooks in advance in case of spotty cell service. Audiobooks also encourage quiet time, which can be a blessing during those extra-long stretches of driving.

You can even get audio books from your local library, either in person or on Libby! This way you are keeping it low cost and sustainable.

3. Play Classic Car Games

Old-school car games never go out of style. Try favorites like "I Spy," "20 Questions," or the "License Plate Game." These games require no materials and keep kids entertained while encouraging observation and creativity.

For a fun twist, create personalized bingo cards with things your kids are likely to spot on your route—think cows, red cars, or road signs. You could also try a storytelling game where each passenger adds a line to a growing story. These low-tech options make for great bonding experiences and work well for kids of different ages.

4. Bring Travel-Friendly Toys

Compact, mess-free toys like magnetic drawing boards, fidget toys, and travel-size board games are perfect for on-the-go play. When space is limited, these portable options offer hours of entertainment without cluttering the car.

Pro Tip: Pair your travel toys with the Pico Portable Car Seat — a lightweight, compact car seat that makes family road trips easier and more comfortable. Its slim design fits in tight spaces while offering top-tier safety and comfort. Learn more about the Pico here.

Interactive toys like reusable sticker books, felt boards, and building blocks with magnetic pieces are ideal for reducing mess. For toddlers, consider quiet books with tactile elements like zippers and snaps to keep their hands busy. Keeping these toys within easy reach helps kids stay entertained while you focus on the road.

5. Create a Road Trip Playlist

Let your kids help curate a playlist of their favorite songs. Sing-alongs and dance breaks can break up the monotony and boost everyone's mood. Plus, music can be a great way to pass the time and create lasting family memories.

For younger children, consider a mix of nursery rhymes and upbeat sing-alongs. Older kids might enjoy a mix of pop hits and family-friendly classics. You can even make themed playlists based on your destination—beach tunes for a coastal trip or campfire songs for a mountain getaway. Engage kids further by turning favorite songs into a "name that tune" game.

6. Schedule Regular Stops

Plan pit stops at kid-friendly locations, such as parks or roadside attractions. Stretching their legs and getting fresh air helps release pent-up energy and reduces restlessness. Aim for a stop every 2-3 hours to keep the whole family refreshed.

Research your route ahead of time to identify scenic spots or fun local attractions. A quick visit to a playground, a nature walk, or even a quirky roadside museum can make the journey more enjoyable. You could also pack a frisbee or ball for a quick energy burn during stops.

7. Snack Time Fun

Pack a variety of healthy snacks and some fun treats as a reward. Bento boxes or snack organizers with compartments let kids choose their favorite bites while minimizing mess. You could even turn snack time into a game by creating a "snack scavenger hunt."

Include a balance of protein-packed snacks like cheese cubes, nuts, and jerky alongside fresh fruits and crackers. Fun surprises like themed cookies or DIY trail mix can keep snack time exciting. To avoid spills, use resealable containers and water bottles with secure lids. Keeping snacks organized makes them easier to access and reduces cleanup.

Travel in Comfort and Safety

A successful road trip starts with safe and comfortable gear. The WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat is FAA-approved and ideal for car and airplane travel. Lightweight and easy to install, it’s the perfect companion for families on the go. With its durable frame and compact design, the Pico fits easily in rental cars, ride-shares, and even narrow back seats.

If you're traveling with multiple kids, the Pico’s slim profile makes fitting three across a breeze. It’s also designed to fold down for easy carrying, making transitions between cars and flights seamless. This portable car seat is an essential for families seeking convenience without compromising on safety.

Looking for more family travel tips? Check out our blog on our road trip checklist for more car ride tips and tricks from our team.

With a little planning and the right tools, you can make your next long car ride an enjoyable adventure for the whole family! Whether it’s packing the perfect activity bag or choosing a reliable travel car seat like the Pico, these tips will help keep everyone happy and entertained.