Top ten card games to play on long flights or road trips

Long flights and road trips can often feel tedious, but playing card games is a fantastic way to make the time fly by. These games are not just fun; they’re easy to learn and great for players of all ages. Here’s a detailed list of the top 10 card games perfect for long journeys.

1. Uno
Uno is a vibrant and exciting card game that’s loved worldwide. The rules are straightforward: match the card on the pile by either color or number and use special action cards to mix things up. The aim is to be the first to play all your cards, but don’t forget to shout “Uno!” when you’re down to your last card. It’s a game full of surprises and quick turns, ideal for adding some fun to your trip.

2. Crazy Eights
Crazy Eights is a classic game that’s super easy to pick up. The goal is to discard all your cards by matching them with the top card on the discard pile, either by suit or number. If you can’t match, you must draw cards from the pile until you can. The eights are wild cards, adding a fun twist and strategic element to the game. It’s perfect for groups and can be played with a standard deck of cards.

3. Go Fish
This game is a hit, especially with kids. The objective of Go Fish is to collect as many sets of four similar cards as you can. You ask other players for specific cards, and if they have them, they must hand them over. If they don’t, you ‘Go Fish’ by drawing from the deck. It’s a great game for developing memory and social interaction skills.

4. Rummy
Rummy is a bit more challenging but incredibly rewarding. The game revolves around making sets (cards of the same value) or runs (sequential cards of the same suit). You draw and discard cards, aiming to form these combinations. It’s a game of skill and strategy, where keeping an eye on what others are discarding is as important as playing your own cards.

5. Hearts
Hearts is a trick-taking game that’s all about evasion. The aim is to avoid winning tricks containing certain cards that carry penalty points. The queen of spades and any heart are the cards to watch out for. It’s a game of strategy, where you must constantly balance between discarding high cards and controlling the flow of the game. It requires four players and is perfect for those who enjoy a more challenging and strategic card game. Online platforms offer a convenient way to play Hearts, allowing enthusiasts to engage with others from anywhere, enhancing the experience with digital ease and accessibility.

6. War
War is the ultimate game of luck. Players reveal the top card of their decks simultaneously, and the higher card wins the round. The goal is to collect all the cards. It’s incredibly simple, requires no strategy, and the game length can vary, making it a flexible choice for travel.

7. Solitaire
If you’re traveling alone, Solitaire is your companion. It’s a game that challenges your brain and passes time effectively. The goal is to move all the cards to foundation piles, sorted by suit and rank. With many variations available, Solitaire can keep you engaged for hours.

8. Old Maid
In Old Maid, players aim to form and discard pairs of cards, and the game continues until all pairs are discarded. The twist? One card doesn’t have a pair – the Old Maid. The player left holding this card loses. It’s a game of luck and a bit of strategy, making it a fun choice for family trips.

9. Exploding Kittens
Exploding Kittens is a modern, quirky card game that’s a mix of strategy and luck. It’s about drawing cards and playing actions while avoiding the Exploding Kitten card. If you draw it, you’re out unless you have a defuse card. It’s fast, fun, and a bit silly, perfect for lightening the mood.

10. Rummy
Rummy makes a second appearance because of its popularity and versatility. You can play many different versions, like Gin Rummy or Indian Rummy, each with its own set of rules and strategies. It’s a game that can be as simple or as complex as you want, making it ideal for all types of players.

Remember, the key to a great travel card game is simplicity and the ability to engage multiple players. These games are not only a great way to pass time but also an excellent opportunity to bond with fellow travelers. So, pack a deck or two, and get ready for some fun on your next journey!

The article Top ten card games to play on long flights or road trips first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.