Spring break is just around the corner, and this year we’re flying. Although flying with family certainly has its benefits, particularly when traveling across the country, packing needs to be a little more intentional. This year there will be no piling up last-minute “essentials” in the back of the car or the empty space under my kids’ feet. One major benefit of road tripping in recent years has been that there is always enough room for a large bag of our favorite board games. Whether they are keeping kids busy in the morning before we really start our day or for the grown-ups after the little people have gone to bed, we love having games on hand! Since Ticket to Ride has to be left behind on this trip, I’ve been brainstorming more travel-friendly games. Here are some more packable games to consider for your next family vacation.
For the Fam
Deck of Cards
An oldie, but a goodie. If packing for your trip is going to be really tight, a deck of cards or two may be all you need. Games like Go Fish or War are easy for younger kids to learn, but there are so many fun and more complex games out there, too. Playing cards alone can provide more options than you would ever need.
Uno
A classic. No explanation needed.
Spot it!
This one comes in a tin small enough to throw in your purse. Easy to learn, quick to play, and fun. Be the first to find the matching pictures. I think they have licensed versions of just about every character or sports team now – so maybe marketing will also get the best of you, and someday you too can own three of the exact same game.
Blink
We were recently introduced to Blink by friends. Match cards by color, number, or shape. Only 2 players typically play at a time, but rounds are very quick, so we will often just take turns playing each other if the whole family wants to play. This one is great to throw in your bag when going out to a restaurant or somewhere else you might have to wait.
Travel Qwirkle
This may be my favorite small group game I’ve discovered in recent years. Requires 2-4 players. Match tiles by color or shape to earn points. Regular Qwirkle would not be too bad to pack if you left the box at home, but the travel version is even smaller and more packable.
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
Another well-known, fun, fast-paced card game that is easy to learn. I’m terrible at this game, but still enjoy playing. My family enjoys laughing at how badly I typically lose.
Bananagrams
For those who love a good word game, don’t forget Bananagrams! Quick paced, easy little bag to shove in a suitcase, and they even have a kid’s version for the newer spellers.
Play 9
A golf card game. I’ve only played this one with adults, but it would be fun with the bigger kids, too. Draw, discard, and trade cards. Person with the lowest score wins – just like golf! Involves luck and some strategy.
Throw Throw Burrito
A dodgeball card game. Not for quiet time or a fancy Airbnb with lots of breakable items. Everyone plays at the same time. Quick, easy-to-understand rules. Be ready for chaos and lots of laughs.
Flip 7
Another addictive and packable card game for the family. This one is like Blackjack meets Press Your Luck. Each round, you “hit” to collect more cards or play it safe and “stay” to avoid busting. Easy to teach and play.
Travel Chess Board
Any chess lovers (or learners?) out there? This mini magnetic chessboard is adorable and perfect to throw in a carry-on. Maybe I’ll have my kindergartner refresh me on the rules during our flight…
One Player
Kanoodle
A brain-building, spatial-reasoning puzzle with Tetris-type pieces. Puzzles start easy and get progressively harder. My 9-year-old loves this one. The game board is also a little carrying case, so it’s easy to throw in a carry-on for the flight.
Lego Recreate Activity Cards
Such an easy but brilliant idea for Lego lovers. There are several different themes to choose from such as animals, space, or magic. Comes with 25 little Lego pieces and a set of 30 cards with ideas or “challenges” to build with what you have. Great when everyone needs some time to chill. You could easily make something like this on your own if you have Legos at home and the time to sit down and think of ideas for your cards. My only gripe is that I wish this had a more sturdy box. I’ll probably end up throwing ours in zip storage bag for safer traveling.
For the Littlies!
Bluey Hide and Seek
I don’t own this one (yet), but we have had a similar game in the past. Take turns hiding Bluey, then the rest of the family finds her. Once you turn it on, it will make sounds – talking or giggling until you find her. Our youngest has entered her Bluey Era, so I’m sure this is one we will be purchasing soon.
Hurry Up Chicken Butt
What little kid wouldn’t be excited to play a game by this name?! Shake the chicken to roll the die and determine which color card to draw. Cards give you a silly action to perform such as singing happy birthday to yourself or walking around everyone like a crab with pinchers. This game requires a lot of movement, so it’s a great one to help get out some wiggles (and giggles)!
Kids on Stage
Charades! Simple rules and every clue card has a picture. No reading required to play, making this perfect for the preschool crew, but easy for the whole family to enjoy together.
Although we have to leave some of our favorites behind this year, we are not lacking options for packable games to enjoy as a family. Looking forward to enjoying some things we haven’t played in a while and maybe even trying something new!
What are some of your family’s best-loved packable games that we shouldn’t miss?
