There’s a moment on every long trip when the music fades, the view gets boring, and you start to wonder—what now? I’ve been on tons of road trips across the U.S., and I’ve figured out what to do on a road trip when you’re bored. From fun car games to simple things to do in the car, I’ve found ways to keep the ride fun. In this guide, I’ll share my favorite tips and ideas that always work—whether you’re driving solo or with a group. Let’s make sure your next road trip is anything but dull!
What to Do on a Road Trip When You’re Bored
Classic and Creative Car Games for Road Trips
Playing car games is one of the fastest ways to beat boredom. These games work for all ages. I still play the License Plate Game almost every time I hit the road. It’s easy—just spot plates from as many states as you can.
Another fun one is 20 Questions. One person thinks of something, and the others ask yes-or-no questions to guess what it is. I once picked “plunger.” It took forever, but we laughed the whole time. The Alphabet Game is great too. Try to find road signs with each letter from A to Z. Some letters are tough, but that makes it more fun.
If you’re with friends, try Would You Rather or Name That Tune. On your own? Go for I Spy or memory games. You can keep it tech-free or use apps like Heads Up or Road Trip Bingo.
Top 5 Car Games That Always Work for Me:
- License Plate Game
- 20 Questions
- Alphabet Game
- Would You Rather
- Road Trip Bingo
Things to Do in the Car That Don’t Involve a Screen
Sometimes it’s nice to put your phone down. I like to bring a notebook and write during the drive. I’ll jot down what I see, how I feel, or even silly poems. It’s a good way to pass the time.
Trivia is another fun choice. Ask each other road trip questions or play a game like “Name That State Capital.” You can even make up your own quiz. If you’re riding with others, try making up a story one line at a time. We once made up one about a llama who took a road trip. It was wild.
I also keep a travel journal. It’s just a little book where I log the stops, snacks, and songs. It helps me remember the best parts of each trip.
Road Trip Kit Must-Haves:
- Notebook
- Colored pens
- Print-out games
- Mini trivia cards
- Snacks (lots of snacks)
Entertaining Solo Activities for Passengers
Traveling alone? No problem. There’s lots of stuff to do in the car when you’re flying solo.
Podcasts are my go-to. Pick a topic you like. Comedy. Mystery. True crime. I once laughed so hard at a podcast, I had tears in my eyes. Audiobooks are great too. Some stories pull you in so deep, you forget you’re in a car.
Music is a must. Build your playlist before the trip. Then sing your heart out. Car karaoke? Always a win. Want quiet time? Try puzzles or coloring books. I bring sudoku on every trip. It keeps my brain busy and helps time fly.
Stuff I Always Pack for Solo Trips:
- Podcasts (funny ones work best!)
- Audiobooks (thrillers keep you hooked)
- My road trip playlist
- Sudoku puzzles
- Coloring book and markers
Road Trip Entertainment Ideas That Involve Everyone
Want fun for the whole crew? Try these things to do on a road trip that get everyone involved.
Group stories are the best. One person says a line. The next one adds to it. We once made up a story about a ghost who loved tacos. It was so silly we had to stop the car from laughing. You can also ask cool questions: “What superpower would you pick?” or “Where would you fly first?”
Try a playlist battle. Everyone adds one song. Then vote on the best one. Bonus points for car dancing! At gas stops, do a snack challenge. Weirdest snack wins. I once bought shrimp chips and instantly regretted it—but hey, I got the win.
Group Games That Always Work:
- Make up a story, one line at a time
- Ask fun questions
- Playlist battles
- Strange snack challenge
- Stretch games at rest stops (Simon Says works great!)
How to Prepare Before You Hit the Road
The best road trips start before you drive. If you’re ready, it’s way easier to have fun. I used to just grab snacks and go. But after a few boring drives, I made an “anti-boredom bag.” It changed everything.
What’s in mine? A notebook, puzzles, fun pens, snacks, and some games. I also toss in trivia cards and music playlists. This bag goes with me every time now.
I also download stuff ahead of time. Podcasts, audiobooks, shows, games—anything I might want. A bad signal in the middle of nowhere? No problem when you’re ready.
Here’s another trick: talk to your group before the trip. Some people want to talk the whole way. Others like music or quiet time. Chat before you go. It helps keep things chill on the road.
Before every trip, I get a big iced coffee, set up my playlist, and double-check my bag. It’s my little pre-trip habit. It gets me in the road trip mood.
Things to Avoid That Can Make Boredom Worse
Even fun trips can get boring. I’ve made these mistakes before—so here’s what not to do.
Don’t stare at a screen for hours. It kills your battery and your energy. After a while, nothing feels fun. Try a game or a chat instead. Or just look out the window. Sometimes that’s all you need.
Don’t ignore the drive. I once passed a giant rocking chair and didn’t stop. I still think about it! Take time to enjoy the little stops. They make great memories.
Don’t forget the music! One trip, my playlist broke. We had three songs on repeat. Never again. Now I save backup playlists—just in case.
FAQs
What are the best car games for adults?
Want fun car games for grown-ups? Try 20 Questions, Would You Rather, or Name That Tune. They’re easy and get people talking. Trivia and silly story games are fun too. I always end up laughing!
How do you entertain yourself on a long road trip?
Long trip? I listen to podcasts, sing to my playlist, and bring puzzles. A travel journal helps too. It keeps my mind busy and makes the trip feel fast.
What can you do in the car when you’re bored without a phone?
No phone? No stress. Grab a notebook and write. Try “I Spy” or the License Plate Game. Chat with a friend or make up a story. It works every time!
What are fun things to do with passengers on a road trip?
With friends? Play games like “Would You Rather” or start a story together. Do a snack challenge or vote on the best playlist song. These always bring laughs and fun.
Conclusion
Road trips don’t have to be boring. You just need a few fun ideas.
Car games, good music, and small activities make a big difference. I’ve tried them all—and they really work.
If you have a favorite road trip game or trick, share it with me! Or grab my free Road Trip Playlist and Boredom Kit to get started.
