Travelling is an incredible adventure, but sometimes those long hours in transit or quiet evenings at your destination could use a burst of fun and excitement.
My kids and I love playing board games at home, but some are just too big to pack. Enter card games - the perfect travel companions. These are our chosen travel games as they are compact, easy to carry, and requiring minimal setup. Card games can transform any boring part of a journey into a fun gaming experience.
I'm going to introduce you to six fantastic card games that are tailor-made for travel. From the ever-popular Uno to the hilariously explosive Exploding Kittens, I've got a game for every type of traveller.
So, grab your decks, shuffle the cards, and let's dive into the world of travel-friendly gaming!
Uno
Uno is a beloved classic that needs no introduction. It's compact, easy to learn, and incredibly addictive. The objective is simple: be the first to get rid of all your cards by matching numbers or colours. Uno comes in various themed editions, making it even more fun and collectible.
Uno is perfect for travel because it's suitable for players of all ages and can be enjoyed virtually anywhere. Whether you're on a plane, train, or in a cozy cabin, Uno guarantees hours of laughter and friendly competition. We have even played it in the long queues at DisneyWorld, with one person's open hands acting as the 'table'. The compact deck slips easily into your bag, making it an essential companion for any journey.
Exploding Kittens
Exploding Kittens is a card game that combines strategy, luck, and a tonne of absurdity. The goal is to avoid exploding kittens and other perils while trying to be the last player standing. With whimsical artwork and a wicked sense of humour, it's a hit among our friends too.
What makes Exploding Kittens perfect for the road is its quick gameplay. A typical round lasts around 15 minutes, making it ideal for short breaks during your travels. The game's compact box fits comfortably in your luggage, and the rules are simple enough to teach to new friends you meet along the way.
Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza
Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza is a high-energy card game that's all about speed and pattern recognition. Players take turns rapidly flipping cards while chanting the game's name and trying to slap the pile when they see a matching card.
This game is an absolute blast for travel because it's fast-paced, good for small kids and can accommodate a large group. It's a bit like a step up from 'snap' that is simple enough for kids to learn and engaging enough to keep the adults playing.
Cockroach Poker
Cockroach Poker is a game of bluffing and deception that's delightfully devious. The goal is to force your opponents to collect sets of cards representing creepy-crawlies like cockroaches, spiders, and bats. You'll take turns passing cards to other players and making claims about what you're passing.
This game is a travel gem because it's easy to learn, endlessly entertaining, and can accommodate a range of players. Cockroach Poker is a game that has lots of different game plays available, no two games are the same. It a perfect choice for extended travels or lazy afternoons in a cozy cafe. I think the idea of having a loser instead of a winner is great, but it causes issues with the kids sometimes, depending on mood!
Bandido
Bandido is a cooperative card game that challenges players to work together to prevent a crafty bandit from escaping. The goal is to build tunnels and traps to keep the Bandido locked up. However, the twist is that the tunnels can be used by the Bandido as well.
This game is a travel essential because it's compact, cooperative, and stimulates strategic thinking. The cooperative element fosters camaraderie among players, making it a fantastic choice for family trips or group adventures. Plus, the small box takes up minimal space in your bag.
Sushi Go!
Sushi Go! is a delightful card game that lets you build your sushi meal by drafting cards with different types of sushi. The goal is to create the most appealing and valuable sushi dishes to win points. It's a game that combines strategy with adorable artwork.
Sushi Go! is an excellent travel game because it's simple to learn, quick to play, and fits neatly into your travel bag. It's also versatile, making it suitable for various group sizes. Whether you're waiting for a bus or relaxing on a beach, Sushi Go! is a fantastic way to add a touch of culinary-themed fun to your travels.
With any one of these six fantastic card games in your travel arsenal, you're guaranteed to have hours of fun on your journeys. From the competitive Uno to the quirky and hilarious Exploding Kittens, there's a game here for every taste and group size.
So, before you hit the road, make sure to pack your favourite card game, and you'll be prepared for memorable moments and new friendships wherever your travels take you.
Let the games begin!
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