12 Things To Keep You Entertained During A Long Road Trip

Long road trips can be exciting adventures, but they can also feel endless if you don’t have the right activities to keep everyone entertained.

So with that in mind, here are 12 fun and creative ways to keep the boredom at bay during a long road trip.

1. Create a Road Trip Playlist

Music is a road trip essential. Before you set off, create a playlist filled with your favorite tunes. You can include sing-along classics, new hits, or songs that match the vibe of your journey.

Here are some great songs to add to your road trip playlist:

• “Life is a Highway” – Classic road trip anthem with upbeat vibes.
• “Take Me Home, Country Roads” – Perfect for scenic drives through the countryside.
• “On the Road Again” – Willie Nelson’s iconic tune about life on tour.
• “Route 66” – A jazzy, nostalgic song about the famous highway.
• “Sweet Home Alabama” – Southern rock that’s great for cruising.
• “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” – Upbeat and perfect for singing along with friends.
• “Born to Be Wild” – Rock ‘n’ roll adventure anthem.
• “California Dreamin'” – Ideal for trips along the California coast.
• “Free Fallin'” – Tom Petty’s classic for laid-back road trips.
• “Holiday Road” – Theme song from “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” a fun addition to any road trip playlist.

2. Play Solitaire on Your Phone

Sometimes, a little solo entertainment is just what you need. Playing solitaire on your phone can be a great way to pass the time. It’s a simple yet engaging game that doesn’t require an internet connection, making it perfect for stretches of the road with no signal. Whether you prefer classic Klondike, Spider, or FreeCell, there’s a solitaire game to suit every taste.

3. Listen to Audiobooks or Podcasts

Audiobooks and podcasts are fantastic for long drives. They can entertain, educate, and keep you engaged for hours. Choose a gripping novel, a fascinating biography, or a series on a topic you’re interested in. Podcasts are great for shorter bursts of entertainment and come in a wide variety of genres, from true crime to comedy to science.

4. Road Trip Games

Classic road trip games like “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” and “License Plate Bingo” are timeless for a reason. They’re simple, fun, and can be played with all ages. You can also invent your own games, like creating stories based on the people you see or guessing the name of the next town you pass.

5. Travel Journaling

A road trip is a perfect time to start a travel journal. Document your experiences, sketch the landscapes, or write about interesting encounters. It’s a creative way to pass the time and you’ll have a wonderful keepsake to look back on.

6. Photo Challenges

Bring out your inner photographer with a photo challenge. Set themes for different parts of your journey, like “nature,” “funny signs,” or “roadside attractions.” This activity not only keeps you entertained but also helps you capture unique moments along the way.

7. Watch Movies or TV Shows

For those not behind the wheel, watching movies or binge-watching TV shows can make the time fly. Download your favorites in advance or use a streaming service if you have good data coverage. Just make sure to bring headphones so you don’t disturb others in the car.

8. Snack Tasting

Turn snack time into an adventure by trying out different treats from gas stations or local stores along your route. You can even rate them and decide which ones are the best. It’s a fun way to keep your taste buds entertained and discover new favorites.

9. Learn a New Skill

Use the long hours on the road to learn something new. Language learning apps, for instance, can help you pick up some basic phrases in a new language. You can also listen to educational podcasts or watch tutorial videos (when you’re not driving) on a skill you’ve always wanted to acquire.

10. Creative Storytelling

Take turns creating a story, with each person adding a sentence or two. This can lead to some hilarious and unexpected narratives. It’s a great way to engage everyone in the car, including kids, and spark some creativity.

11. Plan Your Next Stop

If your road trip involves multiple stops, use the time to research and plan your next destination. Look up interesting places to visit, restaurants to try, or events happening in the area. This will not only keep you busy but also ensure you make the most of your next stop.

12. Mindfulness and Relaxation

Long drives can be a perfect time to practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Listen to guided meditations, practice deep breathing exercises, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Conclusion: Make Every Mile Count

A long road trip doesn’t have to be tedious. From games and music to new skills and snacks, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the open road.