Our motoring expert gives some ideas for making long car journeys more enjoyable for all the family
Games, festive playlists and good podcasts can keep the family entertained on long journeys. Photo: Getty
Any tips for making long car journeys more enjoyable?
Packing a few car-friendly games like bingo cards, I Spy, or even just regular playing cards can help break up a long journey, particularly for small kids. Sometimes fun games made up along the way are even better. A family favourite of ours is a contest for the most outrageous misheard lyrics. My youngest won hands-down one Christmas with his version of Chris Rea’s Driving Home for Christmas: not “Top to toe in tailbacks” but “Top to toe in earwax”. Unforgettable for all the wrong reasons.
What music works best to keep everyone happy, especially with a wide age range?
You can’t go far wrong with a run-of-the-mill Christmas playlist. Even teenagers will usually tolerate a few festive classics, and Spotify and Apple Music have plenty to choose from. If you’re mixing generations, film soundtracks are often a safe middle ground. And don’t be afraid to let each person add a couple of songs to the mix so that everyone feels included. Plus, it can lead to some good-natured debates about musical taste.
Tips for podcasts or audiobooks the whole family can enjoy?
The newly recorded Harry Potter audiobook series is a standout for all ages, featuring more than 200 actors, an orchestra, and performances by Hugh Laurie as Albus Dumbledore and Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort, to name just a few. For older kids and teens, You’re Dead to Me has a great balance between fun and educational. For younger children, Cereal is a charming whodunnit, with one kid and his podcast uncovering the truth behind some crunchy crimes. And for very young passengers, The Neighbourhood is a guaranteed hit.
Can I get all this sorted before I set off?
You don’t need a new car, a simple Bluetooth plug-in will let you stream playlists, podcasts or audiobooks hands-free in almost any car.
Top tip: Don’t underestimate the power of snacks and well-planned breaks. A few treats go a long way on the road and so does giving everyone a chance to stretch their legs, so aim to stop every few hours.