The Best Games to Play in Your Caravan

We’ve done the horrible job of compiling and testing all the games below. Arranged in categories and listed out to remind you of the games you’ve probably played before and some newer ones you may not have yet heard of. Static and touring caravan holidays are a great time to have fun learning new games and re-playing old ones so we hope you have as much fun as we did, but remember, this list is not complete. There literally hundreds of new games being created each year so let us know what you’ve found, so we can keep improving this list!

Card games to play in a caravan

There literally thousands of games you can play with a pack of cards, surely a deck is a staple for anyone heading away in a caravan?

Old favourites:

Pontoon

Could this be the nation’s favourite card game? In a caravan you can play against the dealer using matchsticks and how about raising your bet with wash-up duties?

Monopoly Deal

This has a shorter gameplay than its parent and is much less likely to cause a family argument! All the fun, and much more likely to actually reach the end!

The ones you might not know:

Fluxx - This new game has different rules and a different ending each time you play. Everything depends on the order of the cards so no game will ever be the same as another.

Bohnanza - Who could ever have thought bean farming could be so much fun? A little tricky to play at first, but worth it because this game has a surprising level of strategy for a picture card game.

 

Board games to play in your caravan

It’s true, board games take up a little more packing space, but they do allow for more developed games, with many different themes.

Old favourites:

Scrabble

We all know the rules, we all love to play, just make sure you bring the dictionary as well.

Cluedo

Maybe one for a rainy evening? A classic game to play by candle light perhaps? And if you think the butler with the candle stick is a bit outdated, look for a newer version with all new characters and murder weapons.

The ones you might not know:

Rummikub and/or Okey - Rummikub was invented in the 1930s in Romania, and Okey is a Turkish variation. Both are very engaging, simple to learn and fun, four player games.

The Settlers Of Catan - The most popular board game you’ve never heard of. Currently taking game clubs and living rooms across the globe by storm! This long play board game also has an impressive number of add-ons and variations if you really get into it.

Classic games to play in your caravan

Some games stand the test of time, and some newer ones are so well loved they surely will too! Below is a list of our favourite classic games we think all caravans should stock.

Old favourites:

Chess

There is nothing like whiling the way a sunny afternoon with a classic game of chess. Great game for new and experienced players and great for picking up and putting down over a few days, or the course of a week away.

Draughts

Chess’s younger brother, Draughts is great for introducing new or younger players to a chess board. Just remember the extra pieces. Be sure to check out the Wiki page for other variations of boards and gameplay.

The ones you’ve forgotten about:

Backgammon - One of the oldest board games known - Backgammon - is actually quite easy to learn and play, and can be a very satisfying to delve into if chess isn’t your thing.

Tantrix - A classic counter game with a huge cult following. Once you’ve mastered just a few simple rules, your game of coloured lines will grow and grow into a manic fun game for all players (also good for a one player game).

Outdoor games to play with your family

What about when the weather is good and you want everyone out in the sun? We’ve got some great suggestions for outdoor games for children and adults alike.

Old favourites:

Supersizing

Many classic games such as Jenga, Connect Four, Kerplunk and Pass the Pigs have giant, outdoor versions. Enjoy the fun simplicity of these great games whilst soaking up the sun, you could even take them down to the beach.

Water games

We don’t need to name brands or make any suggestions here do we? What can be more fun on a hot day than running around squirting your loved ones with cold water? No water guns? You could try a hose, water balloons, beakers or just your hands!

The ones you might not know:

Shoe Golf - Invented in 1968, 'Shoe Golf' is similar to golf in that you need a course of different targets but instead of using clubs to hit balls, you welly your loose fitting shoe (great down on the beach, not such a good idea in a busy campsite).

Frozen t-shirt racing – Admittedly, you need a freezer for this one but if you have - freeze folded, wet t-shirts and then race to unfold them and put them on. This one can be hilarious fun as a spectator but a bit chilly for the participant, as you'll see in this video.

Games for which don’t need anything to play:

Are you space-saving crazy? Or maybe you just haven’t prepared any games before your holiday? Maybe you forgot them, or are just looking to save some money to spend on ice creams? That’s not a worry at all! Some of the best games don’t involve any props, equipment, planning or purchasing – here are our favourites:

One player games for the caravan

Sometimes you just want to relax by yourself, and for others there are times when everyone else is out for the day and you can play a quick game in peace. Here are our favourite one player games everyone can enjoy.

Old favourites:

Shut the box

This simple game is fun no matter how many people are playing! But great to pass the time if you’re away by yourself, or enjoying a few minutes peace while the rest are outside playing.

Solitaire

'Klondike Solitaire' is the variation we all know and love, but there are so many great variations why not add a few more to your repertoire?

One you might not know:

Tiny Epic Galaxies - 2015 Golden Geek Best Solo Board Game Winner. T.E.G can also be multiplayer with up to four people so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a in depth solo game which is great for when everyone else arrives too.

 

Taking over intergalactic galaxies not your thing? That’s OK, why not just go for a walk instead! That's the beauty of a caravan.