Traveling with toddlers? It can feel less like a vacation and more like a logistical puzzle. Keeping little ones entertained on planes, trains, or long car rides is key to everyone’s sanity. That’s where travel toys come in! They can be a lifesaver, turning potential meltdowns into moments of quiet (or at least quieter) engagement. I’ve road-tested my fair share with my own kids, so I’m sharing what actually works.
Here’s a quick look at my top picks for toddler travel toys:
- LeapFrog 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch: Combines a laptop and tablet for learning fun.
- Melissa & Doug Water Wow! Reusable Water Reveal Activity Pads: Mess-free coloring with water.
- Fat Brain Toys Dimpl: Simple, captivating silicone bubbles for tactile exploration.
- Wikki Stix One-of-a-Kind Creatables: Bendable, wax-covered strings for endless creations.
- TOY Life Kids Musical Instruments Set: Compact and engaging musical fun.
Top 5 Best Toddler Travel Toys
LeapFrog 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch
The LeapFrog 2-in-1 LeapTop Touch is a fantastic way to keep your toddler entertained and learning on the go. It easily switches between a laptop and a tablet, offering a variety of activities that focus on letters, numbers, and early vocabulary. The compact design makes it perfect for travel.
Pros:
- ✅ Engaging and educational content
- ✅ Two modes: laptop and tablet
- ✅ Compact and lightweight
Cons:
- ❌ Screen size might be small for some
- ❌ Requires batteries
- ❌ Some activities may become repetitive over time
Verdict: This is a great choice for parents who want a mix of entertainment and education in a single, travel-friendly device. It’s best for toddlers who are starting to learn their ABCs and 123s.
Melissa & Doug Water Wow! Reusable Water Reveal Activity Pads
These Water Wow! pads are a game-changer for travel. They offer mess-free “coloring” with just water. Fill the included pen with water, and as your toddler colors, vibrant pictures are revealed. Once the water dries, the pictures disappear, and the fun can start all over again.
Pros:
- ✅ Mess-free coloring
- ✅ Reusable, providing hours of entertainment
- ✅ Compact and easy to pack
Cons:
- ❌ The pen can sometimes leak if overfilled
- ❌ Limited color palette (only reveals the colors underneath)
- ❌ Can be less engaging for older toddlers
Verdict: These pads are perfect for younger toddlers who love to color but aren’t quite ready for traditional crayons or markers. They are ideal for keeping little hands busy without the worry of a mess.
Fat Brain Toys Dimpl
The Fat Brain Toys Dimpl is a deceptively simple toy that toddlers find incredibly captivating. It features silicone bubbles that pop back and forth, providing tactile stimulation and sensory exploration. It’s lightweight, durable, and easy to clean, making it a great travel companion.
Pros:
- ✅ Simple and engaging design
- ✅ Provides tactile and sensory stimulation
- ✅ Durable and easy to clean
Cons:
- ❌ Limited play options (just popping bubbles)
- ❌ May not hold the attention of all toddlers for extended periods
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey for such a simple toy
Verdict: The Dimpl is an excellent choice for parents looking for a simple, calming toy that can help soothe and entertain their toddler during travel. It’s particularly good for younger toddlers and those who enjoy sensory play.
Wikki Stix One-of-a-Kind Creatables
Wikki Stix are bendable, wax-covered strings that can be molded into endless shapes and creations. They stick to surfaces with just a light touch, making them perfect for travel as they won’t roll away or make a mess. They encourage creativity and fine motor skills.
Pros:
- ✅ Encourages creativity and imagination
- ✅ Reusable and mess-free
- ✅ Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- ❌ Can attract dust and lint
- ❌ Not ideal for very young toddlers who still put things in their mouths
- ❌ Creations may not be very durable
Verdict: Wikki Stix are a great option for older toddlers who enjoy creating and building. They provide a fun and engaging way to pass the time on long trips while fostering imagination and fine motor skills.
TOY Life Kids Musical Instruments Set
This mini musical instrument set is a surprisingly good travel option for musically inclined toddlers. It includes a variety of instruments like a tambourine, maracas, and a mini xylophone, all sized perfectly for little hands. It’s a fun way to introduce music and rhythm.
Pros:
- ✅ Introduces music and rhythm
- ✅ Encourages creativity and self-expression
- ✅ Relatively compact and portable
Cons:
- ❌ Can be noisy (consider your fellow travelers!)
- ❌ Some instruments may be of lower quality
- ❌ Small parts could be a choking hazard for very young toddlers
Verdict: If you have a toddler who loves music, this set can be a great way to keep them entertained on the go. Just be mindful of the noise level and consider using it in situations where it won’t disturb others too much. Make sure your child is old enough that they won’t put the small parts in their mouth.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right travel toys for your toddler can make all the difference in having a smooth journey. Here are a few things to consider:
- Age Appropriateness: Always check the recommended age range for the toy. Toys designed for older children may have small parts that could be a choking hazard for toddlers.
- Durability: Travel toys need to withstand being tossed around, dropped, and generally manhandled. Look for toys made from sturdy materials that can hold up to wear and tear.
- Portability: Consider the size and weight of the toy. You want something that’s easy to pack and carry around without taking up too much space.
- Entertainment Value: Choose toys that will keep your toddler engaged and entertained for a reasonable amount of time. Variety is key, so consider a mix of different types of toys.
- Mess Factor: Opt for toys that are mess-free or easy to clean. You don’t want to be dealing with sticky fingers or spilled paint while on the go.
- Educational Value: While entertainment is important, consider toys that also offer some educational value. Toys that promote fine motor skills, creativity, or problem-solving can be a great choice.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to clean travel toys?
A: It depends on the toy, but generally, you can use a damp cloth with mild soap and water. For toys with electronic components, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some toys may also be dishwasher-safe.
Q: How many travel toys should I bring?
A: It’s a good idea to bring a variety of toys to keep your toddler entertained. Aim for 3-5 toys, including a mix of different types, such as a book, a puzzle, and a sensory toy.
Q: How can I keep my toddler from getting bored with their travel toys?
A: Rotate the toys throughout the trip to keep things fresh and exciting. You can also introduce new toys or activities along the way. And don’t forget to engage with your toddler and play with them!
Q: Are electronic toys okay for travel?
A: Electronic toys can be a great way to keep toddlers entertained on long trips. Just be sure to bring extra batteries and consider the noise level, especially on planes or trains.
Q: How do I pack travel toys efficiently?
A: Use a dedicated bag or container for travel toys to keep them organized and easily accessible. Consider using reusable zip-top bags to separate smaller items. You can also involve your toddler in packing their toys to get them excited about the trip.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect travel toys for your toddler doesn’t have to be stressful. By considering factors like age-appropriateness, durability, and entertainment value, you can choose toys that will keep your little one happy and engaged on the go. I hope this guide helps you find some winners for your next adventure! Happy travels!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
