Dreading a long car journey? Anticipating a delayed flight? Keeping your family members happy, and sane, in a confined space is challenging. Before reaching for iPads and yet more snacks, pull out a tried-and-tested travel game to keep the peace.

Even the most screen-addicted teen or irritated toddler will find themselves distracted by these portable games that can unleash hours of entertainment. New releases Exploding Kittens: Good vs Evil and Kids Against Maturity fast become highly addictive while old favourites Uno, Dobble and Othello stand the test of time. The best compact games balance chance, strategy, luck, connection, speed and maybe even magnetic parts that won’t get lost. Crucially, the more engaging the game, the longer the respite from boredom.

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The best compact games balance chance, strategy, luck, connection, speed and maybe even magnetic parts that won’t get lost. Crucially, the more engaging the game, the longer the respite from boredom.

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Yet, don’t be lulled into thinking it’s all fast and furious in today’s world of travel games. Conversation card games like Hygge are becoming increasingly popular as Gen Zers and millennials crave more meaningful connections in 2024. For a calmer way to engage your family on a long journey, pack a thought-provoking game that fosters bonding chats between generations.

From shout out strategy games to fun conversation games, here's our 2024 travel game edit to help your next holiday packing.