Nine games to play on long road trips

Now all parents understand how difficult it is to keep young ones entertained. This problem is amplified when they are stuck behind seat-belts, with limited space and physical restrictions and an epic road journey ahead.

However, travelling in a motorhome can be great fun for kids, with a higher vantage point, picturesque views and a more relaxed vibe. Throw in some games to play and you’ve got a pretty happy journey to your RV holiday destination. Here are nine priceless entertainment ideas from Motorhome Republic:

1 Traffic Sign Bingo: Pretty straightforward this one – and you can pick it up as a very cheap travel game from toy retailers, download some cards online or simply make your own. All the little ones have to do is spot certain signs on their card, slide over a plastic marker or mark with a pencil and get five in a row – “BINGO”! One to get the competitive juices flowing.

2 The Alphabet Game: A number of variations for this one, including the Car Numberplate Game – all depends on which country you’re in! This is a wonderful pastime because it’s so easy to do and can be dragged out for days, even months. The Alphabet Game simply involves attempting to find the letters of the alphabet, in order, on license plates. Or you can simply ignore the letters and focus on the numbers. Go from 1 to 100, or 1000… or more! Let your fellow highway travellers deliver family harmony!

3 Buzz: Now this one will certainly keep minds stimulated. Get them to count to 100, inserting the word ‘BUZZ’ every time they land on a number divisible by three or four or five… etc. A great way of combining fun with education – and re-enforcing those key times tables.

4 Yes-No Game: This perennial favourite doesn’t need any equipment, just patience and quick-thinking minds. Maybe set a time limit of one or two minutes, then one person asks questions to try and get the opponent to say “Yes” or “No”. You can only take a few seconds to answer, otherwise you’re out. Some kids just have a gift for this game.

5 Animal, Vegetable or Mineral: The description pretty much sums up everything that exists on planet earth, so one of the group has to think of something – and their competitor has maybe 20 questions to guess what it is, answering yes or no. Those with a conniving mindset are generally more successful!

6 Car Colours: Again, another ridiculously simple game, where the players select a colour and try and spot cars of the same colour. First to 20/30/40 wins. But avoid white, as it will be over pretty quickly.

7 Name that tune: As everyone knows, accompanying music is all-important on a road trip – and it can also be a vital entertainment tool. Pick a radio station that everybody likes, then see who can guess the name of the artist and song as it comes on. Or someone sings, hums or whistles a TV theme tune and you have to guess the show. Always plan the music in advance and don’t get caught short. A singalong or musical game is amazing entertainment for all the family.

8 The Ultimate Story-Telling Game: This really gets the creative juices flowing. Begin a story, then whenever you feel the need, point to someone else to continue that tale. Every few sentences the next person can take the story in a completely new direction – you may be surprised at where you end up!

9 … and perhaps the best game of all, especially for parents – Who Can Keep Quiet the Longest? Get the little ones to play this one and you’re pretty much guaranteed the perfect road trip!

Phil Wright is General Manager at Motorhome Republic. Drawing on over 15 years’ experience in the travel and tourism sector, his team provide a quality service to those interested in getting the best RV, Campervan or Motorhome deals worldwide.

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