Road trips with kids can either be a blast or a total headache. A lot of that depends on how well you can keep them entertained. When my kids were little, a simple trip to the grocery store felt like an eternity! Finding the right toys can make all the difference between peaceful travel and constant “Are we there yet?” So, I’ve put together a list of some of the best toys to keep your little ones happy on the go.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- LeapFrog Magic Adventures Globe: An interactive globe that teaches geography in a fun way.
- Melissa & Doug On the Go Water Wow! Activity Pads: Mess-free coloring books that can be reused over and over.
- Wikki Stix Traveler Playset: Bendable, wax-covered strings that stick to surfaces and each other.
- Magnetic Drawing Board: A classic toy for creative drawing and easy erasing.
- Kids Travel Tray: A portable surface for eating, playing, and drawing in the car.
Top 5 Best Toys For The Car
1. LeapFrog Magic Adventures Globe
The LeapFrog Magic Adventures Globe is an interactive way for kids to learn about geography. It features a talking globe and stylus that lets kids explore different countries, cultures, and animals. This toy is engaging and educational, making long car rides feel shorter.
Pros:
- ✅ Educational and entertaining
- ✅ Interactive stylus brings the globe to life
- ✅ Lots of content to explore, keeping kids engaged for hours
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit bulky to store in the car
- ❌ Requires batteries
- ❌ Some features might be too advanced for younger children
Verdict: Great for kids who are interested in learning about the world. It’s best for slightly older kids (5+) who can appreciate the educational content.
2. Melissa & Doug On the Go Water Wow! Activity Pads
These activity pads are a lifesaver for mess-free fun. Kids use a water-filled brush to reveal hidden pictures and colors. Once the water dries, the pictures disappear, and the fun can start all over again. They’re compact, reusable, and perfect for travel.
Pros:
- ✅ Mess-free coloring – only requires water
- ✅ Reusable pages provide endless entertainment
- ✅ Compact and easy to pack
Cons:
- ❌ The water brush can sometimes leak if overfilled
- ❌ Limited number of pages per book
- ❌ Some kids might get bored with the same pictures after a while
Verdict: An excellent choice for younger kids who love to color but aren’t quite ready for traditional markers. Great for keeping the car clean!
3. Wikki Stix Traveler Playset
Wikki Stix are simple but surprisingly engaging. These wax-covered strings can be bent, twisted, and stuck to almost any surface. Kids can use them to create all sorts of shapes, pictures, and sculptures. The Traveler Playset comes with a convenient carrying case, making it ideal for travel.
Pros:
- ✅ Encourages creativity and imagination
- ✅ Mess-free and easy to clean up
- ✅ Reusable and long-lasting
Cons:
- ❌ Can sometimes leave a waxy residue on surfaces
- ❌ Not suitable for very young children who might put them in their mouths
- ❌ Can get tangled if not stored properly
Verdict: A fantastic option for creative kids who enjoy building and crafting. It’s lightweight and easy to pack, perfect for road trips.
4. Magnetic Drawing Board
A magnetic drawing board is a classic toy for a reason. It allows kids to draw and doodle without the need for paper or markers. The built-in eraser makes it easy to start over, and the magnetic pen is tethered to the board, so it won’t get lost. When I was a kid, I spent hours drawing on one of these!
Pros:
- ✅ Mess-free and reusable
- ✅ Encourages creativity and drawing skills
- ✅ Easy to erase and start over
Cons:
- ❌ Drawings are monochrome (usually gray or black)
- ❌ The pen can sometimes feel flimsy
- ❌ Screen size may be limiting for more complex drawings
Verdict: A reliable and mess-free option for kids who love to draw. It’s simple, classic, and keeps them entertained.
5. Kids Travel Tray
A travel tray provides a stable surface for kids to eat, play, and draw in the car. It typically features raised edges to prevent items from falling off and can be easily attached to a car seat or booster seat. Some trays also include pockets for storing toys and snacks. This is more of an accessory than a toy, but it complements the other toys perfectly!
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a stable surface for activities
- ✅ Prevents items from falling on the floor
- ✅ Some models include storage pockets
Cons:
- ❌ Can be bulky to store when not in use
- ❌ May not fit all car seats perfectly
- ❌ Some trays can be flimsy or unstable
Verdict: A practical accessory that enhances the car travel experience for kids. It’s especially useful for longer trips where kids need a comfortable surface to eat and play.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right toys for the car depends on a few factors:
- Age of your child: Younger kids need simpler, safer toys, while older kids can handle more complex and engaging options.
- Interests of your child: Consider what your child enjoys doing. Do they love to draw, build, or learn about the world?
- Mess factor: Opt for mess-free toys to avoid spills and stains in the car. Water-based markers, magnetic drawing boards, and reusable sticker books are good choices.
- Durability: Choose toys that are durable and can withstand being dropped, squished, and generally manhandled.
- Portability: Look for toys that are compact and easy to pack. Travel-sized versions of popular toys are often a good option.
- Safety: Ensure the toys are age-appropriate and don’t contain small parts that could be a choking hazard.
FAQs
Q: What are some tips for keeping toys organized in the car?
A: Use a backseat organizer with multiple pockets to store toys, books, and snacks. You can also use a small tote bag or backpack to keep everything together.
Q: How can I prevent toys from getting lost under the seats?
A: A travel tray with raised edges can help prevent toys from falling on the floor. You can also use a seat gap filler to block the space between the seats and the center console.
Q: Are electronic toys a good option for car rides?
A: Yes, electronic toys like tablets and handheld gaming devices can be great for keeping kids entertained on long trips. Just be sure to bring headphones and charger to avoid disturbing other passengers and to keep the device powered.
Q: What should I do if my child gets bored with their toys during a car ride?
A: Pack a variety of toys to keep things interesting. You can also try playing car games like “I Spy” or listening to audiobooks together.
Q: How do I clean toys after a car ride?
A: Wipe down plastic toys with a damp cloth and mild soap. Fabric toys can be spot cleaned or machine washed if necessary. Make sure to dry the toys thoroughly before storing them.
Conclusion
Finding the right toys for the car can make traveling with kids much more enjoyable. Consider your child’s age, interests, and the mess factor when making your choices. Whether it’s an educational globe, a mess-free coloring book, or a simple set of Wikki Stix, a little planning can go a long way in keeping your little ones happy on the road. Hopefully, these recommendations help you find the perfect travel companions for your next family adventure!
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