Extended car journeys can test the patience of the best of us, and with kids even more so. Keeping your kids occupied means not only that your sanity will prevail, but also helps the driver concentrate, making for a safer journey. Check out these 5 car games

I Spy

Perfect for younger kids, I spy is easy to play and entertains kids for longer than you might think. To play, one person picks an object they can see and recites the line “I spy with my little eye, something…” ending with a hint. Everyone get’s a turn at guessing until someone gets the answer right.

Spot the Car

Older kids will enjoy playing spot the car. The goal is to collect as many different car models along the road as you can. Give your kids some paper so they can write down the make, model and colour of the car. Towards the end of your journey, you can task them with trying to figure out which cars and colours are the most popular.

Road Trip Bingo

Road Trip Bing is a great way to keep the kids occupied and interacting with the scenery. Bring along these printable bingo cards and pens or tokens such as coins. When someone spots an object from their card, they can mark it off. The first to get a straight line wins by shouting Bingo!

In-Car Movies

Sometimes the kids (and you!) will need a break from all the games. DVD players with screens that clip to the back of the headrests are a great way to keep the kids entertained without the need for constant involvement. ProTip: Pack in headphones if can’t bear to hear ‘Let it go’ one more time.

Handheld Electronic Games

Kids love video games. Not only does it engage their imagination, but depending on the game, can have positive benefits such improved hand-eye coordination. If your kids don’t have their own gaming devices such as a Nintendo DS or iPod Touch, visit the app store on your phone and let your kids choose a few games. Be sure to keep a charger in the car!