By Lisa Dempsey
Games to Take on the Road
Playing games on the road can liven up any trip. I have four games to take on the road with you that can be played solo, in pairs, or with a large group. Some of my favorite memories include travel days that ended up rained out, and instead, we gathered around a table, played games, and shared stories.
The first game, Ten Days in the USA, was a gift I received on my last holiday inspired by my camping life. It has been fun to play and discover new strategies for winning! The others I’ve collected over the years, and they primarily live in the camper. They are compact and don’t require much space, which is essential.
Review of Ten Days in the USA
Ten Days in the USA is a fantastic board game that captures the thrill of a cross-country journey. The game challenges players to execute a ten-day journey across the United States using state cards with transportation options, mirroring the real-life logistics of plotting a road trip. I love how it encourages geographic knowledge while sparking wanderlust for my next camping adventure.
Overall, the gameplay is simple yet strategic—like mapping out a national park tour, you must carefully arrange states that connect by land, air, or car. It’s satisfying when a well-planned route comes together, much like planning a seamless camping itinerary. You can play with two to four players. Because a bit of strategic planning is needed to play, the age range starts at eight years and older. The board is colorful and easy to read. I liked that you could play a round in about thirty minutes. I had to play a few times to get the hang of learning how to move across the board in ten cards. Ten Days in the USA is a fun, educational game for homebodies and road warriors alike.
Review of Yahtzee: National Parks Travel Edition
Shake, roll, and score! Another game to keep in your camper is Yahtzee: National Parks Travel Edition. It is a perfect companion for evening fun after dinner at the campsite. This compact size also makes it easy to carry in a backpack for hiking adventures. This classic dice game gets a twist with custom dice featuring national park symbols, adding a fun, thematic touch that celebrates the great outdoors.
Basically, the game itself retains the simple Yahtzee scoring, rolling the dice for the best combinations, but with a nature-inspired flair. It’s a relaxing way to pass the time, and there is minimal strategic brain work to play Yahtzee, so much is left of the roll of the dice. A portion of the proceeds supports the National Park Foundation, making every roll feel like a small contribution to preserving these beautiful landscapes. Whether you play in your trailer or a tent under the stars, this edition of Yahtzee is a great pick for fun.
Review of Trivial Pursuit: National Parks Travel Edition
Another twist on a traditional game for an outdoor traveler and camping enthusiast is Trivial Pursuit: National Parks Travel Edition. This fantastic game for anyone who enjoys testing their knowledge of America’s most stunning landscapes. The questions cover a range of topics, natural wonders, wildlife, cultural heritage, battlefields and historic sites, science and nature, and more, making it both educational and entertaining. It is perfect for road trips or relaxing by the campfire with friends.
In addition, this game is excellent for larger groups. You may use it with your Trivial Pursuit game board if you choose, but it isn’t necessary. One of the best features is how portable this game is with its compact, wedge-shaped carrying case. It’s lightweight, durable, and easy to toss into a backpack or RV storage, making it a hassle-free travel companion. A must-have for trivia buffs and nature lovers alike!
Review of Match a Pair of Birds
Finally, my last game is one that can be played alone or with a group. Match a Pair of Birds, illustrated by Christine Berrie, is a stunning take on the classic memory game, perfect for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The beautifully detailed illustrations bring each bird to life, making every turn of a card a delight. Unlike traditional matching games, this version challenges players to pair male and female counterparts of various bird species. This adds a fun twist to the game. The game subtly teaches players to recognize the differences between male and female birds, deepening an appreciation for avian diversity.
All in all, whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting to take notice of feathered friends in your backyard, this game sharpens observation skills while providing an engaging challenge. Included with the cards is a small guide to the birds with facts about each pair. The high-quality cards and vibrant artwork make it a joy to play, and it’s an excellent way to introduce both kids and adults to the beauty of birds. A must-have for any bird lover!
Other Games in my Camper
A few of my other game favorites that I keep with me are a deck of playing cards, UNO, and Left, Right, Center. Try playing Doo Dads with your LRC dice. What are your favorite games to play when you are traveling? Please share them with me in the comments.
