Alternatives to TV and Tablets During Long Car Rides

13 April 2025

Long car rides with kids can be challenging. The endless cries of "Are we there yet?" and the struggle to keep them entertained can drive any parent a little crazy. It’s tempting to hand over a tablet or switch on the TV, but too much screen time isn’t always the best option.

So, what else can you do to keep the little ones engaged without relying on screens? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are some creative, fun, and screen-free alternatives to make long car rides smoother for everyone.

1. Audiobooks and Podcasts: Storytime on the Go

Why They Work

Kids love stories, and audiobooks bring them to life in a way that engages their imagination without the need for screens. Plus, they’re a great way to expose your children to new words and ideas.

Best Options for Different Ages

- Toddlers & Preschoolers: Short, engaging stories like The Gruffalo or Goodnight Moon.
- School-Age Kids: Adventure-packed books like Harry Potter or Percy Jackson.
- Tweens & Teens: Mystery, sci-fi, or fantasy series such as The Hunger Games or The Maze Runner.

If books aren’t their thing, podcasts are another fantastic option! Shows like Wow in the World (science-focused) or Story Pirates (kid-created stories) keep kids entertained and learning.

2. Car Games That Never Get Old

Sometimes, the classics are best. You don’t need fancy gadgets to keep kids entertained—just a little creativity.

Fun Car Games for All Ages

- I Spy: A simple, fun way to get kids observing their surroundings.
- 20 Questions: Think of something, and let the kids ask yes-or-no questions to guess it.
- The Alphabet Game: Find words on street signs or license plates that start with each letter of the alphabet.
- Would You Rather? Ask silly or thought-provoking questions to spark discussions.

These games don’t just pass the time; they also keep your kids’ brains active and engaged.

3. DIY Travel Activity Kits

Before the trip, put together a little “travel kit” filled with activities suited to your child’s interests.

What to Include

- Coloring books and crayons (or colored pencils)
- Activity books (mazes, word searches, crossword puzzles)
- Reusable sticker books
- Small toys or figurines
- Magnetic puzzles or travel-friendly board games

Packing a variety of items ensures that kids have options when boredom strikes.

4. Music and Sing-Alongs

Music can set the mood for the entire trip. Whether it's fun kids' songs, Disney soundtracks, or a playlist of their favorite tunes, music keeps spirits high and energy levels up.

Ideas to Make It Fun

- Family Karaoke: Take turns singing along to favorite songs.
- Guess the Song: Play a short clip and see who can guess the name first.
- Make Up a Song: Have kids create their own silly lyrics to familiar tunes.

A little music can turn the car into a mini dance party!

5. Travel Journal or Scrapbook

Encourage kids to document their journey. A simple notebook and some stickers or colored pencils can turn into a creative distraction.

What They Can Include

- Draw pictures of what they see along the way
- Write short diary entries about the trip
- Collect small souvenirs (like ticket stubs or brochures) to add later
- Make “Top 5” lists (Best Snacks, Coolest Things Seen, Funniest Moments)

Journaling not only keeps them entertained but also helps improve writing and observation skills.

6. Surprise Grab Bags

Surprises always excite kids! Before your trip, prepare a few small mystery bags filled with fun items.

Ideas for Grab Bags

- A small toy or figurine
- A new coloring book
- A tiny puzzle or brain teaser
- A snack they love but don’t always get

Hand out a bag every hour or after reaching a certain milestone (like passing a big landmark). This keeps them looking forward to what’s next.

7. Educational Activity Sheets

If you want to sneak in a little learning while on the road, printable educational activity sheets are a great option.

Some Ideas:

- Road Trip Bingo: Have a sheet with common sights (like cows, stop signs, and bridges) for kids to mark off.
- Math Puzzles: Simple addition or multiplication games.
- Spelling Challenges: Give them a list of travel-related words to spell or use in sentences.

Mixing learning with fun helps keep their minds engaged without feeling like “homework.”

8. Sensory Play for Toddlers

Younger kids often need something tactile to keep them busy.

Travel-Friendly Sensory Ideas

- Fidget toys (like pop-its, squishy balls, or textured rings)
- Pipe cleaners: Let them twist and shape them into fun designs
- Velcro boards: They can stick and unstick different shapes
- Chewy or textured bracelets for sensory-seeking kids

Small, mess-free sensory activities help keep their hands busy and their minds engaged.

9. Window Clings and Dry-Erase Markers

Windows aren’t just for looking out—they can also be an activity space!

How to Use Them

- Removable window clings: Kids can create different scenes and move pieces around.
- Dry-erase markers: Let them doodle on the glass (as long as you're okay with wiping it off later).

This works especially well for kids who like drawing but can’t hold a notebook steady while the car is moving.

10. Quiet Time & Rest Breaks

Not every moment needs to be filled with activities. Sometimes, it's great for kids (and parents!) to have some quiet time.

Ways to Help Them Relax

- Soft pillows and blankets for napping
- A “quiet time” rule for 15-30 minutes
- Encouraging daydreaming or cloud-watching

Long car rides can be exhausting, so making time for rest keeps everyone from getting too cranky.

Final Thoughts

Keeping kids entertained on long car rides without screens is totally doable—you just need the right mix of activities! Audiobooks, games, music, hands-on activities, and even quiet time all help break up the journey.

The key is variety! Switching activities every so often keeps boredom at bay and makes the road trip more enjoyable for everyone. So next time you hit the road, pack a few of these ideas and enjoy the ride!