4 Simple yet Fun Card Games to Play to Kill Time when Travelling

A 52-card deck is a must-have item in every backpack. Not only is it a fun way to pass the time, but it is also compact and easy to carry. Here are some easy and entertaining card games to play while on the go.

During your travels, you may encounter delays such as long bus or train rides, airport layovers, or downtime in a hostel without access to TV or WiFi. In these situations, playing card games can be a great way to keep yourself entertained.

Playing cards is a great way to connect with other travelers, as everyone enjoys a good card game!

Crazy Eights

What you need

• Two or more players
• A standard deck of cards

Goal

• The first player to get rid of all their cards wins

How to play Crazy Eights

1. Shuffle the cards and deal seven to each player. The remaining cards are placed face down, with only the top card visible.
2. The game starts with the player to the left of the dealer.
3. Players must match the top card with one from their hand. If they can’t, they draw a card. Eights can be played on any card, allowing the player to choose a new suit.
4. Play continues until one player runs out of cards.

Watch this video to learn how to play Crazy Eights.

Bullshit/I Doubt It/Cheat

What you need

• Four or more players
• A standard deck of cards

Goal

• The first player to discard all their cards wins

How to play Bullshit

1. Shuffle and deal the cards. Players must discard in order, starting with Aces.
2. Players may bluff by discarding more cards than they claim. Other players can challenge the bluff by saying “bullshit”.
3. If the bluff is called, the bluffer takes the discard pile. If not, the challenger takes it.
4. Play continues until one player has no cards left.

Watch this video to learn how to play Bullshit.

Sevens

What you need

• Three or more players
• A standard deck of cards

Goal

• The first player to get rid of all their cards wins

How to play Sevens

1. Shuffle and deal the cards. Players must play in numerical order around a central Seven card.
2. Players can build on the central card in either direction.
3. If a player cannot play a card, they must pass.
4. Play continues until one player has no cards left.

Watch this video to learn how to play Sevens.

Old Maid

What you need

• Two or more players
• A standard deck of cards

Goal

• Players must discard all their cards except for the last Queen.

How to play Old Maid

1. Shuffle and deal the cards. Players eliminate pairs from their hand.
2. Players pass cards to each other, trying to avoid being left with the last Queen.
3. The player with the last Queen loses the game.

Watch this video to learn how to play Old Maid.

How do you pass the time while traveling?

These simple yet entertaining card games are perfect for beating boredom and making the most of unexpected travel delays. Do you have any other card games to recommend to fellow travelers? Share your suggestions in the comments below!