Best Travel Toys for Trips to Entertain Your Toddler

Inside: Find a compilation of the best toddler travel toys for long trips to make traveling with your toddlers a little easier!

Are you planning a trip with your toddler? Keeping little ones entertained during long flights and car rides can be challenging, but having the perfect travel toys on hand can make all the difference.

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best ones. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best travel toys for toddlers to help make your journey more manageable.

From sensory toys to busy books, there are plenty of options to keep your toddler engaged and happy during long trips.

Sensory toy packs or fidget toys are perfect for calming toddlers and can be cost-effective. Soft activity books are great for independent exploration and can keep your toddler entertained for hours. If you have an older toddler around age 3, the puffy sticker activity book set is an excellent choice.

Whether you’re traveling by car or plane, having the best toys can have a significant impact on your toddler’s happiness and entertainment. In this article, we’ll look at the best toddler toys for trips of all kinds, so you’re ready for your next adventure.

“Actually, the best gift you could have given her was a lifetime of adventures.”

~Lewis Carroll

Understanding the Importance of Toddler Toys for Long Trips

Traveling with a toddler can be difficult, especially without the right tools. Travel toys keep your little one entertained and engaged. They’re essential for a long road trip or a plane ride.

Toddler toys for trips are essential because they provide a sense of familiarity and comfort for your little one. These can help distract your child from the long car ride or flight and keep them occupied. Having a variety of toys to choose from can also help your child avoid becoming restless or bored.

While choosing toddler travel toys, keep your child’s interests in mind. Some toddlers enjoy toys that make noise or have bright colors, while others prefer toys that demand more engagement. It is also critical to select toys that are both safe and easy to clean.

Overall, toddler toys are essential for any parent traveling with young children. They can keep your child entertained and satisfied during long car rides and flights, making the adventure more comfortable for everyone.

So pack a variety of toys for your next trip with your child.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Toddler Toys for Travel

When selecting the best toddler toys for long trips, there are a few criteria to keep in mind to ensure a fun and safe experience for your little one. Here are some factors to consider when choosing toys for your toddler:

Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when selecting toys for your toddler. Look for age-appropriate toys free of small parts that could be choking hazards and made from non-toxic materials. Double-check for any warning labels or recalls before making a purchase.

Learning and Development

Toys can be an excellent tool for learning and development, so choose toys that will stimulate your toddler’s cognitive, motor, and social-emotional skills. Find toys that encourage problem-solving, creativity, and imagination. Puzzles, building blocks, and shape sorters are all excellent choices.

Imaginative Play

Toddlers have a vivid imagination, so toys that encourage imaginative play can keep them occupied for hours. Toys that allow your child to role-play and pretend, such as play kitchens, dolls, and dress-up costumes, are ideal.

Sensory Toys

Sensory toys can help toddlers explore their senses and develop their motor skills. Look for toys with different textures, colors, and sounds, such as sensory balls, cloth books, and musical toys.

Fidget Toys

Fidget toys can help your toddler stay calm and focused during long car rides. Look for toys that are easy to hold and manipulate, such as fidget spinners, squishy balls, and sensory putty.

Keeping these factors in mind, you can select the best toddler toys for your trip that will provide endless hours of amusement and learning for your child.

Related article about toddlers: Printable Toddler Schedule for Free: Daily Routine

Top Toddler Toys for Road Trips

When it comes to traveling with toddlers, keeping them entertained and engaged can be a challenge. But with suitable toys, you can turn a long road trip into a fun adventure. Here are some of the best toddler toys for road trips that will keep your little ones happy and occupied on the go.

Travel Toys

Travel toys are specifically designed for on-the-go play and are perfect for road trips. They are compact, lightweight, and easy to pack, making them an ideal choice for traveling with toddlers. Some popular travel toys include:

• Sticker books: These are great for keeping toddlers busy and can be used to create different scenes and stories.
• Magnetic drawing board: This toy allows toddlers to draw and erase without making a mess. It’s also great for practicing writing skills.
• Busy board: This toy provides a variety of sensory activities, including zippers, buttons, and latches, that will keep toddlers engaged and entertained.
• Buckle toy: This toy helps toddlers develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination by allowing them to practice buckling and unbuckling different types of clasps.
• Shape Sorter: This toy helps toddlers learn about shapes and colors while developing problem-solving skills.

Lacing Toys

Lacing toys are great for developing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. They also provide a fun and engaging activity for toddlers during long car rides. Some popular lacing toys include:

• Squigz: These suction cup toys are great for creating different shapes and designs while also developing fine motor skills.
• Lacing cards: These cards come with laces that toddlers can use to thread through different shapes and designs.
• Bead maze: This toy allows toddlers to move beads through different paths and mazes, helping to develop hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills.

Doodle Board

A doodle board is the perfect road trip toy for toddlers who love to draw. It allows them to draw and erase without making a mess, making it the best toy for long car rides. Some popular doodle boards include:

• Etch A Sketch: This classic toy allows toddlers to draw and erase with the turn of a knob.
• Magna Doodle: This toy allows toddlers to draw and erase with a magnetic pen, providing hours of fun and creativity.

Best Toddler Toys for Airplane Rides

If you’re traveling by plane, there are a few additional toys that are perfect for keeping toddlers entertained during the flight. Some popular airplane toys include:

• Fidget spinners: These toys are great for keeping little hands busy and can help reduce anxiety and stress during the flight.
• Quiet books: These books provide a fun and calming activity for toddlers during the flight.
• Play dough: This toy allows toddlers to create different shapes and designs, providing a fun and engaging activity during the flight.

By packing a few of these toddler travel toys, you can ensure that your little ones stay happy and entertained during a long flight.

Tech-Based Toddler Toys for Travel

If you’re looking for tech-based toddler toys for travel, there are plenty of options available to keep your little one entertained on the go. However, it’s essential to keep in mind the potential downsides of too much screen time.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children under 18 months should avoid screen time altogether, while children between 18 and 24 months can have limited screen time with high-quality programming. For children aged 2 to 5, screen time should be limited to one hour per day of high-quality programming.

If you do decide to use tech-based toys for travel, consider investing in a good pair of headphones to protect your child’s hearing and prevent disturbing other passengers. Look for headphones specifically designed for children with volume-limiting features and a comfortable fit.

Tablets are a popular choice for tech-based toddler toys, and there are plenty of child-friendly options available. Look for tablets with parental controls, durable cases, and pre-loaded educational apps and games. You can also consider investing in a child-friendly camera to encourage your little one’s creativity and help them document their travels.

Gaming devices can also be a good choice for tech-based toddler toys on the go. Look for handheld devices with a variety of age-appropriate games and parental controls. Some devices also come with built-in cameras, allowing your child to take photos and videos of their adventures.

For music-loving toddlers, consider a child-friendly DJ controller. These devices allow children to mix and manipulate music, encouraging creativity and developing fine motor skills.

Overall, tech-based toddler toys can be a great way to keep your little one entertained on long car rides or flights. However, it’s important to balance screen time with other activities and ensure that your child is using age-appropriate and high-quality programming.

Creative Play Options for Road Trips

Keeping your toddler entertained during a long road trip can be a challenge, but with a bit of creativity and planning, you can make the journey more enjoyable for everyone. Here are some creative play options to keep your little one occupied:

Coloring Books

Coloring books are a classic way to keep toddlers entertained on road trips. Make sure to pack plenty of coloring books and crayons to keep your child busy. If you’re worried about your toddler making a mess, consider using Crayola Color Wonder products. These markers and paints only work on special paper, so you don’t have to worry about your child coloring on the car seats or windows.

Reusable Stickers

Stickers are a great way to keep your toddler engaged, but they can be messy and difficult to remove. Consider using reusable stickers instead. These stickers can be used over and over again, and they won’t leave any residue behind. Melissa & Doug and the Peaceable Kingdom both make great reusable sticker sets.

Reusable Puffy Stickers

If your toddler loves stickers, they’ll definitely love reusable puffy stickers. These stickers are three-dimensional and have a soft, squishy texture that kids love. They come in a variety of themes, from animals to princesses, so your child is sure to find a set they love.

Travel Activity Books

Travel activity books are another great option for road trips. These books come with a variety of activities, including coloring pages, mazes, and puzzles. They’re compact and easy to pack, so you can bring them along wherever you go. Look for activity books that come with a built-in pen or pencil to make things even easier.

Overall, there are plenty of creative play options to keep your toddler entertained on a road trip. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can make the journey more enjoyable for everyone.

Audio Entertainment for Toddlers

Road trips can be long and boring for toddlers, but audio entertainment can make the journey fun. Here are some ideas for audio entertainment for your little ones:

• Audiobooks: Audiobooks are a great way to keep your toddler entertained during a long car ride. There are many audiobooks available for toddlers, including classic children’s stories, educational books, and more. You can download them onto your phone or tablet, or bring along a CD player and some CDs.
• Music: Toddlers love music, and there are many options for audio entertainment in this category. You can create a playlist of your toddler’s favorite songs or introduce them to new music. Many children’s music CDs are also available, specifically designed for car rides.
• Podcasts: There are many podcasts available for toddlers that are both educational and entertaining. Some popular options include “Story Pirates,” “Wow in the World,” and “Brains On!” These podcasts cover a range of topics, from science to history to storytelling.
• Interactive audiobooks: Some audiobooks are designed to be interactive, allowing your toddler to participate in the story. These books may include prompts for your toddler to respond to or sound effects that they can make themselves.

When choosing audio entertainment for your toddler, it’s important to consider their interests. You want to choose something that will engage them and hold their attention for the duration of the trip. With the right audio entertainment, your toddler will be happy during your family road trip.

Storage Solutions for Toddler Travel Toys

When you’re packing for a road trip with your toddler, it’s important to consider storage solutions for their toys. You want to ensure that their toys are easily accessible and organized, so you don’t have to dig through a pile of toys to find what they want to play with. Here are some storage solutions to consider:

Toy Storage Bags

Toy storage bags are a great way to keep your toddler’s toys organized on a road trip. These bags come in different sizes and designs, so you can choose one that fits your needs. Some toy storage bags have multiple compartments, making it easy to separate different types of toys. Others have a drawstring closure, so you can quickly close the bag and keep the toys contained.

Over-the-Seat Organizers

Over-the-seat organizers are another great storage solution for road trips. These organizers attach to the back of the front seat and have multiple pockets for storing toys, snacks, and other essentials. They’re perfect for keeping your toddler’s toys within reach, so they can easily grab what they want to play with.

Garage Storage Containers

If you’re traveling in an RV or camper, garage storage containers are a great way to keep your toddler’s toys organized. These containers are designed to fit in the storage compartment of an RV or camper and come in different sizes and shapes. You can use them to store toys, clothes, and other essentials.

Stackable Storage Bins

Stackable storage bins are a great way to keep your toddler’s toys organized in your car trunk. These bins come in different sizes and can be stacked on top of each other to save space. They’re perfect for storing larger toys, such as balls and stuffed animals.

Toddler Diaper Backpacks

A toddler backpack is a great way to keep all of your toddler’s toys and snacks organized and easily accessible during a road trip. Look for a backpack that is lightweight, durable, and has plenty of pockets for storage.

Drawstring Backpacks

Drawstring backpacks are a great storage solution for toddlers who like to carry their toys with them. These backpacks come in different designs and sizes, so you can choose one that fits your toddler’s needs. They’re perfect for storing small toys, such as cars and action figures.

Overall, there are many storage solutions to consider when packing for a road trip with your toddler. Whether you choose a toy storage bag, over-the-seat organizer, garage storage container, stackable storage bin, or drawstring backpack, make sure to pick a solution that fits your needs and keeps your toddler’s toys organized and easily accessible.

Gift Ideas for Toddler Road Trip Toys

Going on a road trip with a toddler can be a challenge, but having the right toys can make all the difference. Here are some gift ideas for toddler road trip toys that will keep little ones entertained and happy during long car rides.

Sensory Toys

Sensory toys are great for calming toddlers and keeping them occupied during road trips. Consider getting a sensory toy pack like this one, which includes 50 pieces and 23 assorted items.

Soft Activity Books

Soft activity books are another excellent option for road trips. They are easy to pack and can keep your toddler entertained for hours. Check out this quiet book, which has different themes and textures for a child to learn fundamental life skills.

Portable Doodle Boards

Portable doodle boards are perfect for toddlers who love to draw. They are mess-free and easy to use, making them a terrific option for road trips. This doodle board is a popular choice among parents.

Stacking Toys

Stacking toys are not only fun for toddlers, but they also help with their hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills. This wooden stacker is a great option for road trips.

Lacing Toys

Another great option that will keep a child occupied for hours is this wooden apple threading toy. It encourages independence in toddlers, plus it’s sturdy and non-toxic.

Audiobooks

Audiobooks are a great way to keep your toddler occupied and content during long car rides. Look for toddler-friendly stories that are entertaining and educational.

Try Audible Plus for 30 days free right now and discover thousands of audiobooks for your child to listen to. Or, for more free audiobooks, visit Brightly Storytime on YouTube.

Overall, there are many great gift ideas for toddler road trip toys that will keep little ones entertained and happy during long car rides. Consider getting a mix of different toys to keep things fascinating and fun for a child.

We particularly enjoy giving gifts from Melissa & Doug. They collaborate with the American Academy of Pediatrics to improve early brain development. We are strong proponents of early childhood cognitive growth. The Melissa & Doug brand unequivocally supports our advocacy.

Health and Safety Considerations for Long Trips

When planning a family trip, it is important to consider health and safety factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Home Safety

Before you embark on your little adventure, make sure your home is safe and secure. Unplug all appliances, lock all windows and doors, and set your home alarm system if you have one. This will give you peace of mind while you are away from home.

Health

To keep your toddler healthy during the trip, don’t forget to pack plenty of healthy snacks and drinks. Avoid sugary and processed foods, which can cause a sugar rush and lead to crankiness and tantrums. Instead, pack fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein-rich snacks like nuts and cheese.

Also, make sure to take frequent breaks to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. This will help your toddler burn off some energy and stay active, which is vital for their physical and mental health.

Dental

Don’t forget about dental health during your trip. Pack a toothbrush and toothpaste for your toddler, and make sure to brush their teeth regularly. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks, which can cause tooth decay and cavities.

Car Safety

When it comes to car safety, guarantee that your toddler is correctly secured in a car seat or booster seat. Check the seat’s weight and height limits to verify that your toddler is within the recommended range. Also, make sure the car seat is installed accurately and securely.

Avoid placing toys or other objects in the car that could become projectiles in the event of an accident. Confirm that all loose items are secured, and keep toys and other things within easy reach of your toddler. I suggest investing in a good-quality car seat travel tray as an activity desk.

By keeping these health and safety considerations in mind, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for you and your toddler.

Additional Considerations for Traveling with Toddlers

Traveling with toddlers can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be challenging. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind when traveling with your little ones:

Style

Comfort is paramount when packing for a road trip with toddlers. Dress your child in comfy attire that allows them to move around freely. Consider bringing an extra set of clothes in case of spills or accidents.

Kitchen

Pack plenty of snacks and drinks for your toddler to munch on during the trip. Portable fridge-free snacks like crackers, dried fruit, and granola bars are excellent choices. Bring a spill-resistant cup or bottle for your child to drink from.

Bedroom

If you’re staying overnight at a hotel or Airbnb, be sure to bring along any necessary items to make your toddler feel at home. This could include a favorite stuffed animal, a nightlight, or a sound machine.

Bathroom

Pack plenty of diapers, wipes, and diaper cream for your toddler. If your child is potty-trained, bring a portable potty or a travel seat for public restrooms. Also, consider bringing along a change of clothes in case of an accident.

Beauty

When it comes to traveling with toddlers, beauty may not be your top priority. However, it’s important to pack any necessary toiletries for your child, such as shampoo, soap, and lotion. You may also want to bring a brush or comb for your child’s hair.

Pets

If you’re traveling with pets, make sure to bring anything they might need, such as food, water, and toys. Also, always keep your pets secured in the car and never leave them unattended.

Parenting

Finally, remember to be patient and flexible when traveling with toddlers. Be prepared for unexpected delays or tantrums, and try to maintain a positive attitude. With planning and preparation, you can make the trip with your toddler a fun and memorable experience.

Related article about toddlers: How to Handle Toddler Temper Tantrums in 6 Ways

Final Thoughts about the Best Travel Toys for Trips with Toddlers

You’ve now seen some of the best toddler toys for trips that can help keep your little ones entertained and happy during long car rides and flights. Remember, the key is to find toys that are engaging, safe, and easy to use in a moving vehicle.

When choosing toys for your toddler, consider their interests and developmental stage. You may also want to think about the length of your trip and the types of activities you have planned.

Some toys, like sensory boards and soft activity books, can be great for younger toddlers still developing their motor skills and sensory perception. For older toddlers, toys like magnetic drawing boards and sticker books can provide hours of entertainment.

It’s also important to consider the size and portability of the toys you choose. Look for toys that are compact, lightweight, and easy to pack. Avoid toys with small parts that could easily get lost or become choking hazards.

Finally, don’t forget to pack a variety of toys to keep your toddler engaged and interested throughout the trip. Consider bringing a mix of toys, books, and games your child can enjoy alone and with the family.

With the right toys and a little planning, your long journey with your toddler can be a fun and stress-free experience for everyone involved.

Happy trip!

Talk soon,

Frequently Asked Questions about Toddler Travel Toys

What are some great toys to keep my toddler entertained during a long road trip?

Some great travel toys to amuse your toddler during long road trips include the Melissa & Doug Take-Along Shape Sorter, the Montessori Busy Board Toddlers Toy, and the Wikki Stix Traveler Playset For Kids. These toys are perfect for keeping your little one engaged and entertained for hours.

What are some good travel toys for a 1-year-old?

Good travel toys for a 1-year-old include quiet books, stacking cups, and simple puzzles. These toys are great for developing motor skills and keeping little children entertained during a long car ride.

What are some recommended toys for a 5-year-old on a road trip?

Recommended toys for a 5-year-old on a road trip include magnetic building blocks, coloring books, and travel-sized board games. These toys are perfect for keeping your child’s mind engaged and their hands busy during a long car ride.

How can I keep my 2-year-old busy during a long car ride?

You can keep your 2-year-old busy during a long car ride by bringing along toys such as a busy board, water wow activity pads, and magnetic drawing boards. These toys are perfect for keeping them entertained and engaged for hours.

What are the best car toys for toddlers?

Soft toys, musical toys, and sensory toys are some of the best car toys for toddlers. These toys are ideal for keeping your child pacified on a long journey.

What toys should I bring for my toddler on vacation?

When going on vacation with your toddler, bring along toys that are easy to pack and won’t take up too much space. Some great options include stacking cups, magnetic building blocks, and water wow books. These toys are perfect for keeping your child entertained in the car, hotel room, or Airbnb rental while on vacation.