Planning a road trip while travelling and dreading the long hours as a passenger? You’re not alone. While the driver’s busy dodging potholes and following directions, it’s easy to feel like you’ve got nothing to do but stare out the window. But being the passenger doesn’t have to be boring — in fact, it can be one of the most entertaining parts of the journey. In this guide, I’ll share 10 fun ways to stay entertained on a road trip (no matter how many hours are left on the sat nav).

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1. Play Car Games (Not the Ones That Make You Motion Sick)

You don’t need to be 10 years old to enjoy a round of I Spy or Would You Rather. In fact, the adult versions are even better. Try:

• The Movie Game: Name an actor, the next person names a film they’re in, then an actor from that film… and so on.
• “Fortunately/Unfortunately”: One person says something good (“Fortunately, we have snacks”), the next has to spin it negatively (“Unfortunately, they’re all covered in sand.”).
• Riddles, lateral thinking puzzles, or the classic “If you overtake the person in second, what place are you in?”

Get creative and keep it light. Bonus points for making each other laugh.

If you’re more of a solo player, don’t underestimate the power of a good digital game. Classic solitaire is always a winner – just download it before you set off in case the signal vanishes somewhere between nowhere and no-WIFI.

2. Make the Ultimate Road Trip Playlist (and Then Actually Listen to It)

What would a road trip be without music? A boring one! No double about that. Which is why you need the ultimate road trip playlist. You know the one — it starts with Queen, dives into 90s pop, features that one song you both hate to love, and ends with a chill acoustic number as the sun sets.

Collaborate on a playlist in advance or let each person queue up songs as you go. And yes, singing at full volume is absolutely encouraged. Even if you’re tone-deaf. Especially if you’re tone-deaf.

3. Download an Audiobook or Podcast That Sparks Debate

If conversation is lagging and the scenery is flat, hit play on something thought-provoking. True crime, travel stories, relationship debates, or even fictional dramas can all spark great convos.

Bonus tip: download offline in advance in case signal disappears halfway through the murder mystery plot twist.

4. Talk to Your Fellow Road-Trippers

This one sounds basic, but road trips are a brilliant time to have those long, winding conversations about life, love, work, exes, childhood memories, the weirdest food you’ve ever eaten, or your ultimate bucket list. You’ve got time, you’ve got no WiFi distractions — go deep. Or go funny. Or go completely off-topic.

5. Get Creative with a Journal or Travel Sketchbook

If you like to document your travels, now’s your moment. Doodle the weird roadside signs. Write haikus about petrol station bathrooms. Record funny quotes from the trip.

Even if you’re not usually the journaling type, give it a go. You might be surprised what comes out between roundabouts.

6. Plan (or Re-plan) Your Trip Mid-Drive

While the driver focuses on not missing the next exit, you get to play navigator, tour guide, and chief activity researcher. Look up cool detours, quirky restaurants, hidden waterfalls or weird roadside attractions (giant pineapple, anyone?).

Spontaneity is where the magic happens — especially when it’s backed by solid Googling.

7. Snack Like a Pro

A good road trip snack selection is a sport. Think beyond the basics. Create a mini tasting menu of local treats. Have everyone bring their weirdest gas station find. Do blind taste tests.

Don’t forget to pack wet wipes, and maybe a mint or two.

8. Stretch, Move, Hydrate, Repeat

Boring but essential. Stiff neck? Wiggle it. Crampy legs? Time for a roadside stretch. Drink water (but maybe not too much — toilet stops can be elusive).

Being comfortable physically will make everything else more enjoyable. And you’ll be less likely to yell “are we there yet?” every ten minutes.

9. Take Photos from the Window — the Weirder the Better

The slightly blurry, weird-angle shots you get as a passenger can be gold. Create a challenge: who can take the best photo of a moving cow, a roadside shrine, or a suspiciously shaped cloud?

You’re not just taking photos — you’re creating memories, one slightly off-centre frame at a time.

10. Embrace the Power Nap (Strategically)

It’s not cheating. It’s survival. If you’ve got hours ahead, use some of it to rest — just make sure you wake up in time for the good bits (like arriving somewhere with snacks, views, or wine).

Pack a neck pillow or even just a hoodie to lean against the window. Let the driver envy your peaceful slumber.

Final Thoughts: Being the Passenger Isn’t Second Best

It’s a different kind of road trip experience — less responsibility, more daydreaming. Whether you spend it chatting, snacking, sketching or dozing, there’s a lot to love about sitting shotgun (or even in the backseat).

And remember: boring is optional. All you need is a little creativity, a good playlist, and people who don’t mind your off-key karaoke.