Long road trips can test anyone’s patience, but they’re also a golden opportunity to laugh, bond, and make great memories together.
Card games are one of the easiest ways to turn highway hours into a highlight. They don’t take up much space, they’re affordable, and they bring everyone – from couples, to friend groups, to big families – into the fun.
Here’s a friendly, road-tested roundup of seven great card games to bring along. Some are perfect for playing in the car or at picnic tables during breaks, and some even let the driver join in without ever taking his (or her!) eyes off the road.
1. UNO (or UNO Flip!)
Why it’s great: Everyone loves Uno. It’s colorful, fast, and easy to learn. The newer Uno Flip! adds a fun twist with double-sided cards.
Family-friendly: 100%.
Driver-friendly? Definitely. Designate the driver as the Wild Card Decider – even if he can’t see the deck, the randomizing element adds to the game!
Tip: There are tons of editions and themed versions to choose from, pick your favorite: NFL, films, UNO junior.
2. Would You Rather? (Family Edition)
Why it’s great: This compact deck features all the hilariously hard choices you remember, but is family-friendly and safe for all audiences.
Family-friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike.
Driver-friendly? 100%. The driver can answer, debate, or ask follow-up “why?” questions, making it perfect for in-motion play.
Fun twist: Try inventing your own spin-off questions for extra fun or as a tie-breaker round.
3. Apples to Apples
Why it’s great: Play a card that best fits the prompt, and a rotating judge picks their favorite. Lighthearted fun that works across ages.
Family-friendly: Absolutely.
Driver-friendly? Yes, the driver can serve as the judge or provide hilarious commentary.
Tip: Check out themed spinoffs for more specialized playing for your group, like the sweet but gut-busting The Catholic Card Game.
4. Shotgun! (or Shotgun Jr.)
Why it’s great: Designed specifically for road trips, Shotgun! features cards with silly challenges, photo tasks, and funny missions. Shotgun Jr. is great for younger families.
Family-friendly: Yes, with a version for even younger kids.
Driver-friendly? Totally – the driver often becomes the referee or participant in challenges.
5. Hearts or Rummy
Why it’s great: These classics have stood the test of time. Hearts works best with four players, while Rummy is great for two or more.
Family-friendly: Best with teens and adults.
Driver-friendly? Limited… but perfect for rest stops, campgrounds, or picnic lunches along the way.
6. War
Why it’s great: Probably the simplest game of all—just flip cards, and the higher number wins. Great for when the brain’s too tired for strategy.
Family-friendly: Definitely.
Driver-friendly? Not really—but the driver can act as cheerleader, or join in future rounds at stops.
Bonus tip: Works perfectly for two players or as a quiet time game.
7. Monopoly Deal
Why it’s great: All the fun of Monopoly, but it only takes about 15 minutes to play. Perfect for quick stops or quick competitive bursts in the backseat.
Family-friendly: Yes, great for older kids and adults.
Driver-friendly? The driver can help referee or simply enjoy listening to the inevitable property squabbles.
Pro tip: Toss this in your glove compartment—you’ll be glad you did.
BONUS: Game your way– fun variations and challenges
Want to take your card games up a notch? Try adding these playful twists to keep things fresh and hilarious:
Silent mode: Try playing an entire round of Uno or Apples to Apples in complete silence—except for necessary calls like “Uno!” or color declarations. First person to break the silence owes the winner a snack.
Prize stakes: Make each game competitive by adding a reward—winner gets to choose the next stop, playlist, or the type of ice cream everyone has to order next.
Speed round: If you’re playing War or Rummy at a rest stop, set a timer and see how fast you can finish a full game or reach a certain score.
Loser’s challenge: The player with the lowest score after a round of Monopoly Deal has to clean up the cards or give a fun, spontaneous toast to the driver.
License plate hunt bonus: While playing Shotgun!, add an extra rule: spotting a license plate from a new state earns you a free skip or bonus turn in the game.
Adding small challenges like these makes familiar games feel brand new—and gives everyone, even the driver, a reason to laugh, play, and stay connected throughout the journey.
Final thought
On your next road trip, don’t just focus on the destination – bring along the fun for the ride itself. Whether you’re headed to a family reunion, a beach vacation, or a challenging hike, these card games can help turn miles into memories.
Happy travels!