Travel Toys for the Car or Airplane
Parenting can be a wild ride—and road trips are no exception! Whether you’re cruising down the highway or waiting at the airport, keeping kids entertained is no small feat. While screens can be a lifesaver, incorporating screen-free activities can create more memorable and interactive travel experiences.
One idea, inspired by Habits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Everyday Family Rhythms, is to limit screen time to one movie or a designated time period. This leaves the rest of the journey open for family games, chats, rest, or independent play. Here are some practical and fun screen-free travel ideas based on the age and interests of your children:
1. Scavenger Hunts
Scavenger hunts are a fantastic way to engage kids of all ages. For younger children, opt for picture-based scavenger hunts, like these reusable cards from Busy Toddler. If you have time before your trip, you can create your own scavenger hunt or explore free options on Pinterest. Scavenger hunts work well in the car, the airport, or even during layovers!
2. Fidget Toys
Fidget toys are perfect for keeping little hands busy. Depending on your tolerance for small items in your car or carry-on, you can find a range of options, from poppers to mini animal figurines. Sensory-loving kids might enjoy no-mess foam kits that are portable and reusable. For budget-friendly finds, a quick trip to the Dollar Store or Walmart can result in an assortment of travel-friendly fidgets.
3. No-Mess Markers and Activity Books
Dry erase boards, no-mess markers, and activity books are classic yet reliable options for travel. A simple dry erase board allows for endless creativity, while products like the Crayola On-The-Go Mess-Free Marker Kit make it easy to keep supplies contained. LCD doodle boards are another favorite—they allow kids to draw, play games like tic-tac-toe or hangman, and save paper at the same time. Traditional activity books like connect-the-dots, Mad Libs, or crosswords can also keep older kids entertained.
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and creativity, you can make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
What Are Your Favorite Travel Hacks?
We’d love to hear how you keep your kids entertained on long trips! Share your go-to tips and tricks in the comments.
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