Top 25+ Travel Games To Play While On The Go

Whether you’re hitting the road for a short drive or a long journey, travel games are a fantastic way to keep everyone entertained and make your trip more memorable. The ideal games for travel should be compact and lightweight, making them easy to pack and carry. They should cater to all age groups and interests, ensuring hours of fun for everyone involved.

If you’re wondering which games should be in your backpack, we’ve compiled a list of the best travel games available.

26 Best Travel Games of 2024

Games Name	Number of Players
Travel Games on MPL	2 or more
Pepper Pong	2 to 4 players
Scrabble to Go	2 to 4 players
Exploding Kittens	2 to 10 players
Hygge Game	2 and more players
Purple Cow Magnetic Backgammon	Only 2 players at a time
Song Survivor	2 or more players
Parents are Human	2 or more players
Portable Puck Shot	Only 2 players at a time
52 Essential Conversation	2 to 4 players
Where should we begin	2 to 6 players
Nex Playground	2 to 4 players
Trip chaser card game	2 to 6 players
Shotgun	2 or more players
Dobble	2 to 8 players
Bananagrams	2 or more players
Pass the Pigs	2 players at a time
Connect 4 Grab and Go	2 players at a time
Sequence	2 to 12 players
Qwixx	2 to 5 players
Boggle	1 or more players at a time
LCR (Left Center Right)	3 or more players
Crazy Eights	2 to 5 players
Five Crowns	1 to 7 players at a time
Uno	2 to 10 players
Grandpa Beck’s Cover Your Assets	2 to 10 players

If you unwind by playing games, here are some of the best free online games that pay real money

1. Best Travel Games on MPL 

Travel games are portable and compact games designed to be easily carried and played while traveling. They are typically small, lightweight, and simple to set up, making them ideal for passing time during long journeys, waiting at airports, or relaxing at your destination. 

Nowadays, you can also play most of the travel games on your smartphone. There are offline and online variants of the game. You can play with your family or friends while traveling. If you are traveling solo,, try a wide range of multiplayer games on MPL and earn up to $50,000 daily through cash tournaments. MPL is one of the most trusted online gaming platforms where you can play multiple games on your smartphone and earn real money. 

Quickly withdraw your earnings in your PayPal account. Check some of the popular options on MPL for making your travel more exciting and happening. 

Play on MPL and win real money

Draw 4

Download Draw 4 on your smartphone and earn real money up to $50,000 daily through cash tournaments and daily events. The main objective is to get rid of all your cards in hand before your opponent wins. 

Spades 

Spade is always the trump suit, no matter who bids the highest. Players have to win tricks equal to or more than they did in the game. This game usually ends when a team or player score big i,e. 500 points. Play MPL Spades and make up to $1 to $20 per game in cash games. 

Snakes and Ladders

Conquer the popular board of Snakes and Ladders on MPL while enjoying the best window view. Let your opponent suffer the wrath of snake bites and use ladders to quickly climb to the top. Climb up to the last square before your opponent and win. Revive your childhood memories and earn real money while playing your favorite Snakes and Ladders game.

Gin Rummy

Gin Rummy is a classic card game. The main objective is to use all your cards into matching sets and runs before your opponent. You can make sets and runs with a minimum of 3 cards. The first player to reach 100 points wins the game. Gin rummy can be played with two or more players. Play Gin Rummy on MPL and win up to $50,000 daily.

Crash Skill

Predict the exact time of the crash and make a bet before the rocket takes off. You can choose a multiplier in the game and boost your earnings. Earn up to $20 per game in quick battle lobbies in Crash Skill on MPL.

Ludo 

Relive your childhood memories with the ageless classic board game, Ludo. Make your travel fun and exciting with your families onboard. Take all your tokens to the center before others and win. Ludo on MPL matches you with real players based on your skill level for fair and competitive gameplay.

2. Pepper Pong

If you are searching for games for traveling, this compact version of Ping-Pong and pickleball is perfect for adults on the go. Pepper Pong game, about the size of a shoebox, can be set up almost anywhere in seconds. Simply place the foldable net, called a Fence, on a picnic table or any flat surface, and you’re ready to play. 

The game offers three different ball sizes, known as Peppers, allowing you to adjust the intensity of your play. Plus, your purchase makes a difference: For every set sold, the company donates a game set to a recovery or addiction-focused homeless center.

There’s no age restriction for this game. As long as you can swing a racket, you can play. Just make sure you have a flat surface for setup.

Features:

• Pepper Pong can be played with 2 to 4 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 3 and above.
• The average time for a normal game of pepper pong lasts for around 15-20 minutes.

3. Scrabble to Go

Scrabble to Go is a beloved board game that has remained popular for good reasons. It attracts players of all ages and provides an engaging way to challenge your mind while enjoying time with your family or friends. The game often sparks interesting conversations as players discuss word choices and strategies.

This mini version of Scrabble is designed for convenience, featuring snap-in tiles that stay in place even during bumpy car rides. It’s a great option if you want to play on the go or if you need to pause the game and come back to it later without worrying about losing your progress.

However, it’s important to note that the tiles in this smaller version are quite tiny. This might take some time to get used to, especially for those accustomed to the regular-sized tiles.

Features:

• Scrabble Go can be played with 2 to 4 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 8 and above.
• The average time for a normal Scrabble to Go game lasts around 25-30 minutes.

4. Exploding Kittens

Exploding Kittens is a simple and entertaining card game that’s a bit like a fun version of Russian roulette. Players draw cards from a deck, avoiding the “exploding kitten” cards while using strategy and special “immunity” cards to stay in the game. Its small size and lack of extra pieces make it perfect for traveling or passing the time.

Features:

• Exploding Kittens can be played with 2 to 10 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 7 and above.
• The average time for a normal Exploding Kitten game lasts around 15-20 minutes.

5. The Hygge Game

Hygge, a Danish word meaning coziness, is the idea behind these portable games for traveling. They contain 300 questions to help you have deep and meaningful conversations with friends and family. 

Whether on a long car trip, enjoying a meal at a cozy candlelit restaurant, or simply hanging out at home, this game is a great way to spark interesting and thoughtful discussions. Remember that some questions can be quite deep and might surprise those who prefer lighter, casual chats.

Features:

• Hygge can be played with 2 or more players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 14 and above.
• The average time for a normal Scrabble to Go game lasts around 15-20 minutes.

6. Purple Cow Magnetic Backgammon

One of the top games for travel is Backgammon, a popular game in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries. This travel-friendly version features a magnetized board, so the pieces stay put while you play. Just open the case, roll the dice, and enjoy the game. Although the board is smaller, the gameplay and strategy are unchanged.

The magnets are not very strong, but they work well enough to keep the pieces mostly in place.

Features:

• Magnetic Backgammon can be played with only 2 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 5 and above.
• The average time for a normal Scrabble to Go game lasts around 15-20 minutes.

7. Song Survivor

Song Survivor travel card game is perfect for starting fun singalongs in the car or at your hotel after a day of exploring. Created by the Black-owned business Doin’ The Most, the game involves drawing cards with a single word and singing a song that includes that word. 

You’re out if you mess up the lyrics or can’t think of a song quickly. Suitable for players aged 13 and up, the game offers easy and hard modes to adjust the challenge level.

Remember, not everyone enjoys singing outside of the shower, so make sure your fellow travelers are up for the fun before bringing this game along.

Features:

• Song Survivor can be played with 2 or more players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 16 and above.
• The average time for a normal Scrabble to Go game lasts around 15-20 minutes.

8. Parents Are Human

Like the Hygge Game, Parents Are Human is a card game designed to build understanding and strengthen connections. This particular deck focuses on immigrant families, making it ideal for family road trips. 

It includes 50 question cards and 20 action cards, with English on one side and an additional language, such as Arabic, Chinese, Punjabi, Spanish, or Thai.

Features

• Parents are human can be played with 2 or more players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 13 and above.
• The estimated time to wrap this game up is not fixed.

Also Read: Best Casual Online Games

9. Portable Puck Shot

With sturdy wooden pucks and a Baltic birch wood case, this portable hockey board game is perfect for car trips, camping, or cozy cabin evenings. Even if you’re not a hockey fan, you’ll enjoy this fast-paced game, which uses a simple sling to shoot wooden pucks across the board at your opponent’s goal.

Keep in mind that the Portable Puck Shot game is somewhat large and heavy, so it’s better suited for road trips than for air travel.

Features:

• Portable Puck Shot can be played with only 2 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 6 and above.
• The average time for a normal Scrabble to Go game lasts around 5-10 minutes.

10. 52 Essential Conversations

This travel card game is built on the timeless art of conversation, aiming to enhance social and emotional skills. It’s designed to encourage players, including kids, to open up, improve their social skills, and spark creativity. The game comes in a compact tin box, making it easy to organize and take anywhere.

While the game suits players aged 5 and up, some questions may be more appropriate for adults. If you’re playing with a multigenerational group, you might want to skip or remove the more adult-oriented questions before starting.

Features:

• 52 Essential Conversations can be played with 2 to 4 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 5 and above.
• There is no fixed time for gameplay in the 52 Essential Conversations game.

11. Where Should We Begin

This travel card game, inspired by Esther Perel’s Where Should We Begin podcast, is designed for adults looking to connect on a deeper level. Featuring cards with prompts like “A dream I’ve never shared” and “One thing that keeps me up at night,” it offers a fun and easy way for travelers to get to know each other better.

Tip: Many players skip the dice and draw cards randomly for a more spontaneous experience.

Features:

• Where should we begin game can be played with 2 to 6 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 18 and above.
• There is no fixed duration of the game.

12. Nex Playground

This compact game console is perfect for family fun on the go. The colorful cube uses motion sensors (with controllers or wearable gear) to engage in family competitions. Simply connect the Nex Playground to your TV and access a library of over 20 games and experiences, from dance-offs to sports and activities with beloved cartoon characters.

The game requires about 8 feet by 8 feet of floor space for movement, which may be challenging in small hotel rooms or tight spaces.

Features:

• Nex Playground can be played with 2 to 4 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is a maximum of 4 years
• The average time for a normal Nex Playground game lasts around 5-10 minutes.

13. Trip Chaser Card Game

Trip Chaser game is the ultimate travel-themed card game for those who love a bit of competition. Experience global adventures from your home—no airport lines required!

Show off your travel knowledge by buying, bartering, and gambling to reach various destinations. The harder it is to reach a destination from North America, the more points you earn!

Watch out for event cards, which can either boost or challenge your journey, inspired by real travel mishaps like Dalene losing her phone in the Galapagos or Pete’s robbery in Mexico.

Features:

• Trip Chaser Card Game can be played with 2 to 6 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 12 and above.
• The average time for a normal Trip Chaser Card game lasts around 60 minutes.

14. Shotgun

Enhance your road trips with this entertaining family card game, Shotgun! Designed to make your journeys enjoyable and memorable, Shotgun offers a variety of engaging activities.

Whether you are singing along to your favorite songs, answering trivia questions, or completing amusing challenges, Shotgun ensures continuous entertainment throughout the trip. With over 200 unique cards featuring different dares, questions, and more, every game provides a fresh experience, keeping the fun alive from start to finish.

Additionally, this game comes from the creators of the well-known game “What Do You Meme.”

Features:

• Shotgun can be played with 2 or more players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 8 and above.
• The average time for a normal Shotgun game lasts around 30-480 minutes.

15. Dobble

Many of us remember playing Snap as kids, and Dobble takes that classic game to a whole new level. Imagine Snap, but with added excitement and intensity.

Dobble features five easy-to-learn card games, perfect for travel. Each card displays 8 pictures, and each card shares one symbol with every other card.

Players race to find the matching symbols, collecting or passing cards based on the game rules. The game supports up to 8 players, making it great for groups, but it’s also ideal for 2 players. Its simplicity helps break down language barriers, making it accessible for everyone.

Expect lots of shouting, grabbing, and hand-slapping as the game heats up. Dobble is undeniably one of the top travel games available.

Features:

• Dobble can be played with 2 to 8 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 6 and above.
• The average time for a normal Dobble game lasts around 10 minutes.

16. Bananagrams

The Bananagrams game comes in a playful banana-shaped pouch, making it an ideal travel companion.

There are 144 letter tiles (the bunch). Players draw a set number of tiles and turn them face up when someone shouts “split.” The goal is to use all your tiles to form interconnected words, like a crossword puzzle. There are no turns; everyone works quickly on their grid.

If you use all your tiles, shout “peel” to draw a new tile, and everyone else does the same. If you want to swap a tile, shout “dump,” return it to the bunch, and draw three new tiles.

To win, there must be fewer tiles in the bunch than players. The first player to use all their tiles and shout “Bananagrams” wins, provided their words are valid. Otherwise, they become the “rotten banana.”

Bananagrams is easy to learn, quick to play, and addictive, making it perfect for any group.

Features:

• Bananagrams can be played with 2 or more players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 7 and above.
• The average time for a normal Bananagrams game lasts around 5 minutes.

17. Pass the Pigs

Families will enjoy this charming dice game, in which players roll pig-shaped dice to earn points. The goal is to be the first to reach 100 points and win. The Pass the Pigs game is perfect for travel, as it only needs a flat surface. The pigs, score pads, and pencils are all stored in a compact plastic case that fits neatly in a backpack. 

The game contains small parts, so it’s not suitable for young children due to choking risks.

Features:

• Pass the Pigs can be played with 2 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 7 and above.
• The average time for a normal Pass the Pigs game lasts around 15-20 minutes.

18. Connect 4 Grab and Go

Connect 4 Grab and Go is a compact version of the classic Connect 4 game designed for easy portability. It’s ideal for couples or pairs traveling together.

In Connect 4 Grab and Go, each player has 21 checkers,; one uses red and the other uses yellow. Players take turns dropping a checker into the grid. The goal is to line up four of your own checkers in a row, which can be done horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

As you try to form a line of four, your opponent will do the same while blocking your moves. The game is easy to learn and quick to play, offering a mix of simplicity and strategic depth.  It’s perfect for unwinding and can be enjoyed by players of all ages.

Features:

• Connect 4 Grab and Go can be played with 2 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 6 and above.
• The average time for a normal Connect 4 Grab and Go game lasts around 10-30 minutes.

19. Sequence

Sequence combines the thrill of poker and bingo with strategic board game elements to create a highly enjoyable experience. While a travel version exists, we recommend sticking with the standard edition for its superior gameplay. The travel version is a compact, simplified version that doesn’t offer the full experience.

In Sequence, each player is dealt a set number of cards, which vary depending on the number of players. The game board features a grid with cards printed on it. The objective is to form a sequence of five connected markers on the board.

To play, choose a card from your hand on your turn and place a marker on the matching card on the board. The first player to connect five markers in a row wins.

Strategy plays a crucial role in Sequence. It’s not just about focusing on your cards; you must also keep an eye on your opponents and anticipate their moves to block their progress. The game is easy to learn and offers plenty of excitement.

Features:

• The Sequence can be played with 2 to 12 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 7 and above.
• The average time for a normal Sequence game lasts around 30 minutes.

20. Qwixx

In the fast-paced and exciting dice game Qwixx, every roll is crucial for every player. The game revolves around colorful scoring cards with four rows per color, numbered from 2-12 or 12-2.

Qwixx keeps everyone engaged, with no waiting time or downtime, ensuring that all players stay active and involved throughout the game. The game’s twists and turns make it thrilling and enjoyable for all.

Features:

• Qwixx can be played with 2 to 5 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 8 and above.
• The average time for a normal Qwixx game lasts around 15-20 minutes.

21. Boggle

Boggle is a fun word game that is quick and easy to play. Thanks to its compact plastic case, it’s perfect for travel. To play, shake the dice in the box until they settle into a grid. Lift the lid and flip the sand timer to begin.

Players must then find and write down as many unique words with three or more letters as possible. Letters can be connected in any direction as long as they touch. 

Words that more than one player finds don’t count—unique words score points. The longer the word, the more points you earn, with longer words scoring much higher. The player with the highest total wins the game.

Features:

• Boggle can be played with 1 or more players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 7 and above.
• The average time for a normal Boggle game lasts around 3 minutes.

22. LCR Left Center Right

LCR (Left, Center, Right) is a game of pure chance with no strategy involved. The dice roll determines your moves each turn, making the game quick and full of excitement. It’s perfect for large groups and delivers thrilling entertainment as the excitement rises and falls rapidly.

This game is ideal for anyone to join in, especially in a party setting with many players. Even if you feel out of the game, your opponents might inadvertently give you a chance to turn things around. For an added thrill, play with real money instead of chips—even a small stake can make the game more engaging.

Features:

• LCR can be played with 3 or more players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 8 and above.
• The average time for a normal LCR game lasts around 20 minutes.

23. Crazy Eights

Crazy Eights is a fun and strategic card game in which the goal is to be the first to discard all your cards.

Crazy Eights is easy to learn and play, making it perfect for all ages. It’s simple enough for beginners but can be customized with special rules and actions, such as having Queens skip a turn or Aces reverse the play direction, to add more strategy and excitement.

Features:

• Crazy Eights can be played with 2 to 5 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 7 and above.
• The average time for a normal Crazy Eights game lasts around 10 minutes.

24. Five Crowns

You’ll find Five Crowns even more exciting if you enjoy playing Rummy. This game builds on the classic Rummy concept but adds a new twist with an extra suit and a roving wild card.

Five Crowns is straightforward to learn and play, with fast rounds that keep the action moving. Despite its simplicity, the game involves strategic thinking. As you progress through the rounds, the stakes get higher. So, even if you start off slow, you can quickly catch up and turn the game in your favor.

Features:

• Five Crowns can be played with 1 to 7 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 8 and above.
• The average time for a normal Five Crowns game lasts around 45 minutes.

25. Uno

Uno is a popular family card game and an excellent choice for home and travel. It’s designed to be fun whether you’re playing with just one other person or a larger group of up to ten people. The game’s goal is simple: you must be the first player to eliminate all your cards. However, winning depends a lot on the luck of the draw, so every game can be different and exciting.

One important rule is that when you have only one card left, you must shout, “Uno!” If you forget, you might miss your chance to win, adding a bit of extra excitement to the game.

This particular version of the game is convenient because it comes in a sturdy tin. The tin makes it easy to keep all the cards together and ensures they don’t get lost or damaged, making it one of the great games for travel.

Additionally, this version of Uno is designed to be inclusive. It features graphic symbols on the cards, which means that colorblind players can quickly join in the fun without any difficulties. This thoughtful detail makes the game enjoyable for everyone.

Features:

• There can be 2 to 10 players in the game at a time.
• The recommended age for playing Uno card games is 7 and above
• An average game of UNO takes around 15-20 minutes

Here’s a better game you can play and win real cash prizes – Draw 4 on MPL.

26. Grandpa Beck’s Cover Your Assets

Grandpa Beck’s Cover Your Assets is an exciting game in which the goal is to become the first player to become a millionaire using any strategy you can think of. The game is fast-paced and unpredictable, with fortunes changing quickly. 

A player can go from winning big to losing everything in just a few moves, keeping everyone engaged and on edge throughout the game. Expect an emotional ride with thrilling highs and sudden lows as you strive to cover your assets and outsmart your opponents.

Features:

• Grandpa Beck’s Cover Your Assets can be played with 4 to 6 players at a time.
• The recommended age for playing this game is 8 and above.
• The average time for a normal Grandpa Beck’s Cover Your Assets game lasts around 30 minutes.

Tips to Select the Best Travel Games Platform For You

Check some of the best ways to select the best game for travel. 

Size of the Game

Choosing the right games for traveling starts with its size. Opt for games that come in compact cases, making them easy to fit into a backpack or carry-on. If you’re on a road trip and have more space, you can consider slightly larger games, especially when traveling by car.

Game Ratings and Popularity

Game ratings and popularity indicate whether a game will suit your needs. Check reviews from travelers who have similar preferences to yours. This can help you pick a game that will likely be enjoyable for your travel style and group.

Minimum Age Criteria 

To ensure everyone has a great time, select travel games suitable for all ages in your group. Bringing a mix of games, one for kids and another for adults, can cater to everyone’s interests and keep everyone entertained. MPL allows children above 10 years of age to play online real-money-earning games. 

Playtime 

Consider how long it takes to complete a game when choosing games for travel. Since travel can involve varying attention spans, pick games that match your travel companions’ patience and interest levels.

FAQs

How to make road trips fun?

You can play multiple travel games to make your road trip fun. Nowadays, numerous online games are available on your smartphone that you can enjoy while on your road trips. Download multiple games on MPL for free. 

What games are good for weekend getaways?

There are various best travel board games that will suit your weekend getaway plans. You can try card games, puzzles, family games, sequences and patterns, and more to make your trip more fun and exciting. 

What makes a good travel game?

A good travel game must have multiplayer support that allows your friends and family to play along. It also should have a friendly user interface and time-boundation limits to avoid overplaying. If you are packing travel games, always remember to rate them on the App Store or Play Store. 

What is the best game to play while traveling?

You can play plenty of games while traveling with your family or solo. If you are looking to play the best games to play while travelling, you must download the MPL app and play games such as Draw 4, Gin Rummy, Ludo, 3 Card Flush, Spades, etc.