Board Games on Vacation: Age-based ideas for tablet-free moments
You're on the ferry, it's hot, the kids have already explored the deck, you've had an ice cream and... only 20 minutes have passed. The kids start to fidget restlessly. You look around, not to admire the sea, but to come up with ideas. But there are none.
The easy solution? Let me guess... the tablet.
The alternative? It's so simple! A small (but very promising) board game that fits in your bag, doesn't need Wi-Fi and—if you give it a chance—trust me, it will reward you!
In this article, you'll find suggestions for portable board games, organized by age, that can turn even the most boring vacation moments into meaningful moments of connection.
What board game should I bring for my child on vacation? Here is a guide by age group:
Ages 3–5: Their first board games
Look for matching and sequencing card games. They are small, with few pieces, and fit everywhere. They help develop skills like object recognition, classification, and understanding of sequence and order.
Examples: image matching cards with animals or colors, size sorting cards “from smallest to largest”, “find the same” games
✅ Choose durable cardboard and simple illustrations, no reading required.
Ages 5–7: Storytelling everywhere
Try story dice. They are pocket-sized, lightweight, and often include plastic dice, story figures, and a small storage pouch. Children roll the dice and let their imagination unfold a story. These games enhance narrative expression in a fun and creative way.
Examples: storytelling dice, mini adventure cards, games with images and characters
✅ Ideal for airplane, car, or ferry
Ages 6–9: Thinking and strategy
At this age, strategy games with colors, shapes, or simple math rules are particularly suitable. They often come in travel versions. These games exercise mental processes and support mathematical thinking through patterns and combinations.
✅ Support math skills through hands-on play
Ages 7–10: Turn-taking and rules
Choose card games with fast-paced, turn-based play. Even a simple deck of cards is enough! Children learn to wait their turn, follow rules, make decisions, and practice math concepts in a fun way.
✅ Help develop rule-following, patience, and decision-making
Ages 9+: Cooperation and imagination
Cooperative storytelling games are ideal for older children. Players work together to create a story using cards, dice, or other objects. These games encourage critical thinking, communication, and teamwork. Perfect for meaningful family moments and inner motivation.
✅ Promote teamwork and critical thinking
Tips for enjoyable playtime during holidays
What often works during the 'summer boredom' hours is to build a small play routine during the day:
• One game before bed instead of screen time • Alternate turns parent-child or play all together • Don’t focus only on winning – reward thinking, cooperation, and creativity • Talk after the game: “What did you like?”, “What were you thinking then?”, “What would you do differently?”
Mini FAQ for parents: Travel games with kids
How many games should I bring? 2–3 are enough, as long as they are of different types.
What if my child only wants the tablet? Start with a short, simple game played together. The “together” makes all the difference.
Will younger children play? Yes, especially if you choose games that require no reading and have simple rules.
