Travelling with toddlers can be a fun experience — but let’s face it, it can also be a nightmare. Whether you’re flying across the country, driving across the state, or taking the train, keeping your toddler occupied is key to a stress-free ride. The good news is, with the right travel toys, you can transform stressful travel time into a fun adventure for both of you.
Here are 5 fantastic travel toys that are light, interactive, and ideal to keep your toddler busy on the move.
1. Busy Boards and Quiet Books
Why it’s great:
Busy boards and quiet books are portable activity centres full of zippers, buttons, buckles, Velcro, and the like. They’re meant to facilitate hands-on learning and develop fine motor skills. The bonus? They are quiet, meaning they will not disturb fellow passengers on an aeroplane or train.
Perfect for:
- Airplane and train journeys where space is limited.
- Long car rides when you need something engaging yet safe.
Travel tip:
Opt for soft fabric quiet books if you’re short on space or a compact wooden busy board for more sensory stimulation. Many are themed (e.g., animals, cars, daily routines), so you can pick one based on your child’s interests.
2. Reusable Sticker Books
Why it’s great:
Unlike regular stickers, reusable sticker books allow kids to peel and stick over and over again. These books often come with themed scenes (like zoo, farm, or city) where kids can place stickers to create their own stories. It boosts creativity while keeping little hands busy.
Perfect for:
- Airplanes (no mess and easy to handle on a tray table).
- Restaurants and waiting areas during travel stops.
Travel tip:
Choose vinyl cling sticker books that are easy to remove and don’t leave sticky residues. Go for books with plenty of large stickers to avoid tiny pieces getting lost under seats!
3. Water Wow! Reusable Water Coloring Books
Why it’s great:
If you haven’t tried Water Wow! books yet, you’re in for a treat. These books use a water-filled pen to “paint” on special pages, revealing colourful designs. Once the water dries, the pages return to blank, ready to be used again. No mess, no fuss — perfect for on-the-go fun!
Perfect for:
- Flights and road trips where you want a mess-free art activity.
- Hotel rooms when you need quiet playtime.
Travel tip:
Bring an extra refillable water pen just in case one goes missing. And since water is the only “paint,” you don’t have to worry about cleaning up.
4. Magnetic Drawing Boards (Mini Doodle Pads)
Why it’s great:
Magnetic doodle pads are a fantastic way to encourage creativity without needing crayons or markers. Kids can draw, erase, and draw again endlessly. Many travel-sized versions are available that easily slip into a backpack or diaper bag.
Perfect for:
- Car and train rides (easy to handle on laps.
- Airplanes when you want something quiet and self-contained.
Travel tip:
Look for durable versions with attached pens so no pieces get lost. Some come with stamps for added fun.
5. Interactive Sound Books (with Low Volume Settings)
Why it’s great:
If you don’t mind a little sound, interactive sound books can be a lifesaver. These books often feature buttons to play music, animal sounds, or stories. Choose ones with volume control or low-volume settings to keep things polite in public spaces.
Perfect for:
- Car rides where sound won’t disturb others.
- Airplane rides (if using headphones or low volume).
Travel tip:
Pick books that combine sound with pictures and text to encourage both listening and “reading.” Also, ensure batteries are charged or replaced before your trip.
Bonus Tips for Traveling with Tots
- Pack a variety of small toys so you can switch them out when your child gets bored.
- Keep a special toy reserved just for travel. The novelty can hold their attention longer.
- Bring a small bag or pouch to keep toys organized and easy to grab during transit.
Conclusion
If you’re prepared, travelling with toddlers doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. You’ll be prepared to manage lengthy waits, delays, and travel hours with ease if you bring along a few carefully selected travel toys, such as sound books, busy boards, sticker books, water colouring books, and magnetic drawing pads.
In addition to being entertaining, these educational toys foster independent play, creativity, and motor skills development while providing parents with much-needed breathing room.
To ensure a comfortable journey for the entire family, remember to bring these travel-friendly toys the next time you’re organizing a trip.
