How to Plan a Screen-Free Family Road Trip

20 Essential Tips for an Unplugged Adventure

A family road trip is an incredible opportunity to bond, explore, and create lifelong memories together. However, with modern technology often taking center stage, keeping everyone entertained can seem challenging—especially without screens. But a screen-free road trip can be even more rewarding!

By planning fun games, interactive activities, and engaging stops along the way, your family will stay entertained while enjoying the beauty of the journey. These 20 tips will help you plan a fun, screen-free family road trip where the focus is on adventure, laughter, and togetherness.

1. Choose Scenic Routes to Keep Everyone Engaged

When planning a screen-free road trip, a visually engaging route is your secret weapon. Instead of the fastest highway, opt for scenic byways or backroads that wind through forests, mountains, or along coastlines.

Scenic drives not only offer beautiful views but provide built-in conversation starters for the whole family. The changing landscapes keep things interesting, from towering trees in a national park to vast ocean views along the coast.

By intentionally choosing a scenic route, you can turn “are we there yet?” into “wow, look at that!”—making the drive itself a significant part of the adventure.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Guide to Scenic Highways and Byways – A great guide that highlights some of the most beautiful scenic routes across the U.S. for your next road trip.

Bestseller No. 1 National Geographic Guide to Scenic Highways and… $17.12

Bestseller No. 2 National Geographic’s Guide to Scenic Highways and… $9.85

2. Create a Paper Map Adventure

In the age of GPS and digital maps, introducing kids to paper maps can be an exciting and engaging activity. Buy or print out a large map of your route and let your kids track the journey with markers, stickers, or highlighters.

They can note landmarks, count the miles, and even mark each rest stop or point of interest. Not only is this a fun, screen-free way to involve them in the journey, but it also teaches map-reading skills.

This interactive approach gives children a sense of involvement, and they’ll feel more connected to the trip as they actively follow along.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Rand McNally Maps – Colorful, kid-friendly brand of maps designed to engage little ones by helping them track your journey.

Bestseller No. 1 Rand McNally Kids’ Road Atlas $8.36

Bestseller No. 2 Rand McNally: The Ultimate Backseat Book 3 in 1… $12.97

3. Play Classic Road Trip Games

Forget the screens and bring back the charm of classic road trip games. Games like “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” and the “License Plate Game” require no equipment and encourage interaction between everyone in the car. These games keep the conversation flowing and make long stretches of road more entertaining.

For a more structured approach, consider bringing printed versions of these games or books filled with road trip challenges. They can keep everyone guessing, thinking, and engaged for hours.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Family Road Trip Games Books – Filled with classic and new road trip games that keep the family entertained without any screens needed.

Bestseller No. 1 Family Road Trip Games: A Pocket Book of Games,… $16.82

Bestseller No. 2 The Ultimate Road Trip Games Book for Families |… $8.99

Bestseller No. 3 Road Trip Trivia: Interesting Questions and… $13.99

Bestseller No. 4 Brain Games – Travel Games: Puzzles, Trivia,… $8.99

4. Build a Collaborative Family Story

Spark your family’s creativity with a collaborative storytelling game. Start by having one family member kick off a story with an opening sentence. The next person adds to it, and so on, with each turn taking the plot in unexpected directions. This game is perfect for sparking imagination and laughter as the story becomes more outrageous and fun with each contribution.

Collaborative storytelling not only keeps the family entertained but encourages listening, creativity, and a bit of humor, making the miles pass by quickly.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Story Cubes – Dice with different images on each side that help kickstart creative storytelling and add a new layer of fun to the game.

Bestseller No. 1 Rory’s Story Cubes Classic (Box) – Creative… $12.99

Bestseller No. 2 Rory’s Story Cubes Classic (Eco-Blister) – Spark… $13.99

5. Create a Travel Journal for Everyone

Encourage each family member to document the trip through a travel journal. Whether it’s through drawings, writing about the day’s adventures, or collecting mementos like leaves or postcards, a travel journal is a wonderful way to make memories last. Kids can record what they see, feel, and experience, turning their screen-free journey into a creative exercise.

Journals offer a quiet, reflective activity that keeps everyone engaged without needing electronics. Plus, they serve as a lasting keepsake long after the trip ends.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Travel Journals – Easy-to-use notebooks perfect for documenting a family road trip, with plenty of space for writing, drawing, or attaching keepsakes.

Bestseller No. 1 The Family Adventure Journal: Turn Everyday… $14.41

Bestseller No. 2 DUNCAN & STONE PAPER CO. Travel Journals – Elegant… $25.00

Bestseller No. 3 Page-A-Day Artisan Travel Journal (Diary, Vegan… $10.22

Bestseller No. 4 Travel Journal and Travelers Notebook to Record… $24.99

6. Organize a Family Sing-Along

Nothing brings a family together like music! Create a family sing-along by compiling a playlist of your favorite road trip songs, old classics, and kid-friendly tunes. Singing along together is not only fun but keeps spirits high and the atmosphere light. If you’re looking for variety, consider mixing in campfire songs, classic hits, and fun songs that everyone knows.

A car full of singing voices will instantly bring energy to the trip and help pass the time as the miles fly by.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Carpool Karaoke Microphone – A wireless microphone turns any car into a karaoke stage, making sing-alongs even more exciting and interactive.

Bestseller No. 1 Carpool Karaoke Machine for Kids & Adults, Carpool… $10.14

Bestseller No. 2 Carpool Karaoke Machine for Kids & Adults, Carpool… $11.68

7. Plan for Roadside Stops and Attractions

Break up the drive by planning engaging, off-the-beaten-path roadside stops. Instead of pushing through long stretches of highway, find interesting attractions, quirky landmarks, or national parks along your route. Whether it’s the world’s largest ball of yarn or a scenic hiking trail, these stops offer a chance to stretch your legs and explore something new.

Making frequent stops not only refreshes everyone but also allows you to experience the unique charm of small towns or natural beauty you’d otherwise miss.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Roadside America Guidebook – A guide to America’s quirky roadside attractions, offering fun and unexpected stops to break up your family road trip.

Bestseller No. 1 New Roadside America: The Modern Traveler’s Guide… $5.83

Bestseller No. 2 Roadside Geology of Arizona: Second Edition $32.00

Bestseller No. 3 Roadside History of Idaho (Roadside History… $16.93

Bestseller No. 4 Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on… $23.78

8. Pack Old-Fashioned Games and Toys

Keep the kids entertained without screens by packing a bag of old-fashioned games and toys. Think Rubik’s cubes, yo-yos, Etch A Sketches, or small puzzles that can keep their hands and minds occupied. Classic games like travel-sized Connect Four or magnetic chess sets are perfect for car rides and provide hours of entertainment.

These types of toys and games offer a tactile, creative outlet, helping kids stay focused and entertained while leaving the screens behind.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Melissa & Doug Travel Toys – Travel-friendly versions of classic toys and games that keep kids entertained on the road without needing technology.

Bestseller No. 1 Melissa & Doug Play to Go 2-Pack: Cake and Cookies… $16.59

Bestseller No. 2 Melissa & Doug Puffy Sticker Play Set – On the… $7.99

Bestseller No. 3 Melissa & Doug 18-Piece Wooden Take-Along Tabletop… $25.49

Bestseller No. 4 Melissa & Doug Sticker WOW!™ 24-Page Activity… $9.97

9. Have a Nature Scavenger Hunt

Turn a regular drive into a fun adventure with a nature-themed scavenger hunt. Before the trip, create a list of things your family can look for out the window—like different animals, types of trees, or specific landmarks. As you drive, everyone can cross off items on the list. This game encourages your kids to look outside and stay engaged with the changing landscape.

A scavenger hunt is an interactive, screen-free way to keep everyone entertained and adds an element of excitement to the trip.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Nature Scavenger Hunt Cards – Sets of cards with nature-themed scavenger hunt challenges designed to keep kids engaged and curious on road trips.

Bestseller No. 1 bxtala 30 Pcs Nature Scavenger Hunt Cards, Find… $11.99

Bestseller No. 2 gofindit -The Original Outdoor Nature Scavenger… $12.50

Bestseller No. 3 Hoolerry 30 Pcs Nature Scavenger Hunt for Kids Car… $11.99

Bestseller No. 4 Foosproea Nature Scavenger Treasure Hunt Games… $9.99

10. Bring a Cooler for Picnic Stops

The joy of a picnic, surrounded by beautiful scenery, makes for a relaxing and screen-free break during your road trip. Preparing food together beforehand can also be a fun family activity, and you can involve the kids in packing their favorite healthy snacks. By planning picnic stops along the way, you not only keep everyone fed but also create lasting memories in beautiful, outdoor settings.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Coolers – A portable, insulated cooler is perfect for storing fresh snacks and meals for your scenic picnic stops.

Bestseller No. 1 Igloo Polar 120 Qt. Cooler $100.99

Bestseller No. 2 Coleman Chiller 48qt Insulated Portable Cooler… $59.99

Bestseller No. 3 Igloo 70 QT Latitude Marine Ultra White Cooler $79.99

Bestseller No. 4 Coleman 60qt Wheeled Cooler, Insulated Portable… $54.99

11. Prepare a Road Trip Bingo Game

Create or print road trip bingo cards filled with common sights, such as “red car,” “cow,” or “speed limit sign.” As you drive, family members can mark off the items they see, and the first to complete a row wins. This game encourages kids to observe the world around them while keeping the trip interactive and screen-free. Bingo is also a great game for fostering a little friendly competition while keeping things light and fun.

You can personalize the bingo cards based on your specific route or surroundings to make the game more relevant to the journey.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Travel Bingo – A road trip bingo set with reusable cards keeps kids focused on the journey and entertained during long drives.

Bestseller No. 1 Regal Games Finger-Tip Shutter Bingo Cards with… $12.99

Bestseller No. 2 WELL BALANCED Car Bingo – Road Trip Essentials:… $12.49

Bestseller No. 3 GRANDLMOON 48 Designs 9 Themes Car Bingo and Road…

Bestseller No. 4 Magnetic Travel Bingo Game for Kids Ages 4-8 |… $14.99

12. Plan Time for Outdoor Exploration

Incorporate outdoor activities into your road trip, like hiking, bird watching, or exploring nature trails. Research state parks or nature reserves along your route where the family can stop, stretch their legs, and enjoy the great outdoors. Not only does this give kids a chance to burn off energy, but it also provides quality time together away from screens.

By blending short hikes or nature walks into your travel plans, your family will be able to enjoy fresh air, observe wildlife, and appreciate the natural beauty along the journey.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Hiking and Nature Trails Guidebooks – Comprehensive guides to family-friendly hiking trails across the U.S., perfect for planning outdoor adventures during your road trip.

Bestseller No. 1 Hiking North Cascades: A Complete Guidebook to… $14.99

Bestseller No. 2 100 Hikes of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate… $22.49

Bestseller No. 3 50 Cape Cod Hiking Trails: The Best… $19.95

Bestseller No. 4 John Muir Trail: The Essential Guide to Hiking… $17.99

13. Pack a Variety of Travel Books

Travel books can be a great source of entertainment and inspiration on a screen-free road trip. Choose books that relate to your destination or the journey itself, from guidebooks to children’s books about the places you’ll visit. For younger kids, interactive books with flaps or texture can keep them engaged without screens.

You can also bring along an audiobook that the whole family can enjoy together, offering a shared experience while still avoiding individual screen time.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• National Geographic Kids U.S. Road Trip Atlas – A fun and educational travel book that introduces kids to the different regions and landmarks of the U.S. during a road trip.

Bestseller No. 1 National Geographic Kids Ultimate U.S. Road Trip… $9.29

Bestseller No. 2 National Geographic Kids Ultimate U.S. Road Trip… $19.90

Bestseller No. 3 National Geographic Kids Ultimate U.S. Road Trip… $1.52

Bestseller No. 4 National Geographic Student World Atlas, 6th… $13.45

14. Organize Roadside Trivia Challenges

Bring along trivia cards or create your own with fun facts about your destination or the regions you’ll be driving through. As you drive, quiz each other on everything from state capitals to famous landmarks. This activity is not only educational but also fosters engagement and friendly competition between family members.

Trivia challenges keep minds active and help pass the time in an entertaining, screen-free way, turning your journey into a fun learning experience.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Brain Quest Travel Trivia Cards – A set of travel-themed trivia cards designed to challenge and entertain kids and adults alike on long road trips.

Bestseller No. 1 Brain Quest 2nd Grade Smart Cards Revised 5th… $12.08

Bestseller No. 2 Brain Quest for the Car: 1100 Questions and… $9.17

Bestseller No. 3 Brain Quest 5th Grade Smart Cards Revised 5th… $9.85

Bestseller No. 4 After Dinner Amusements: Riddle Me This: 50… $8.95

15. Introduce Kids to Photography

Encourage kids to take up photography during the trip by giving them disposable cameras or simple film cameras. Let them capture their favorite sights, landmarks, or moments throughout the journey. Without the distractions of a digital camera screen, kids will focus more on what’s happening around them, creating a more mindful and creative experience.

At the end of the trip, you can develop the photos together and relive the journey, creating tangible memories that last.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Instant Cameras – A fun, retro way to allows kids to capture their own unique view of the road trip without overusing screens or provoking a tantrum when you ask for your cellphone back!

Bestseller No. 1 Polaroid Now 2nd Generation I-Type Instant Camera… $149.99

Bestseller No. 2 Polaroid Now 3rd Generation I-Type Instant Camera… $149.99

Bestseller No. 3 Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera – Charcoal… $79.89

16. Host a Roadside Story Time

Bring along a selection of family-friendly books and designate a few stops as “story time breaks.” Pull over at scenic spots or rest areas and take turns reading aloud. Whether it’s a favorite children’s book or an engaging novel, sharing stories aloud fosters bonding and relaxation, all while keeping everyone engaged without screens.

This is a great way to break up the drive and create quiet, peaceful moments during your journey.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• The Wind in the Willows – A classic family novel that’s perfect for reading aloud during your road trip, offering adventure, nature, and fun for all ages – be sure to check you grab the right copy for your needs!

Bestseller No. 1 The Wind in the Willows: Illustrated Edition… $16.12

Bestseller No. 2 The Wind in the Willows (Illustrated): The Classic… $6.99

Bestseller No. 3 The Wind in the Willows (Dover Children’s… $7.99

Bestseller No. 4 The Wind in the Willows $28.50

17. Engage in Nature Drawing

Pack some colored pencils and sketch pads to encourage kids to draw what they see along the way. Whether it’s mountains, trees, or animals, this screen-free activity allows children to observe and interpret the world around them creatively. Nature drawing not only passes the time but also helps kids focus on the beauty outside the car window.

Parents can join in too, turning it into a fun family art session where everyone shares their sketches at the end of the day.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Travel-Friendly Coloring Sets – To use for nature-inspired sketches during the trip.

Bestseller No. 1 Crayola Nickelodeon Color Wonder Bundle (3 Pack),… $16.93

Bestseller No. 2 Colorpockit Coloring Kit Travel Art Set with… $24.79

Bestseller No. 3 Water Coloring Books for Toddlers, Aqua Painting… $9.99

Bestseller No. 4 Bluey Imagine Ink Coloring and Stickers Set for… $6.49

18. Explore Local History Along the Way

Incorporate local history into your trip by stopping at historical landmarks or visitor centers. Many small towns and regions offer fascinating stories and exhibits that help bring history to life. By learning about the local culture or significant events that shaped the area, your kids can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the places you pass through.

Exploring history together offers a screen-free way to enrich the journey, turning each stop into an educational adventure.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Roadside History Guides – Filled with interesting historical sites and stories that you can explore along your road trip route.

Bestseller No. 1 Traveler’s History of Washington: A Roadside… $17.99

Bestseller No. 2 Guide to the South’s Quirkiest Roadside… $19.28

Bestseller No. 3 Why Stop?: A Guide to Texas Roadside Historical… $15.19

Bestseller No. 4 Roadside History of Arizona (Roadside History… $16.99

19. Make Personalized Road Trip Playlists

In addition to sing-alongs, create personalized playlists for each family member. Let everyone choose their favorite songs, and take turns playing each person’s playlist during the trip. This activity is great for letting everyone contribute to the fun and keeps the mood lively with a mix of different music styles. Plus, it sparks conversations about everyone’s favorite songs and artists.

Having music on hand is a great way to keep spirits high without relying on screens, and it can serve as the perfect backdrop for the adventure.

20. End the Day with Campfire Stories

If your road trip involves camping or a stay in a cabin, end each day by gathering around a campfire and telling stories. Share funny moments from the day, make up new tales, or pass down family stories. Campfire storytelling is a great way to connect, reflect on the journey, and unwind as a family without any screens in sight.

This timeless tradition brings the family together for meaningful, shared moments at the end of an adventurous day.

Amazon.com Recommendations [ad]

• Campfire Story Prompts Cards – A set of cards with story prompts to help inspire creative and engaging campfire tales for the whole family.

Bestseller No. 1 Campfire Stories Deck: Prompts for Igniting… $12.32

Bestseller No. 2 Campfire Stories Deck–For Kids!: Storytelling… $11.46

Share

As always, I’d love to hear from you – what are your favorite tips for planning a screen-free family road trip? Share your ideas, experiences, and favorite memories in the comments below!

Last update on 2025-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API